Top Health Stories: Blood Test for Preeclampsia and More
Groundbreaking health care innovations, such as the world’s first blood test for preeclampsia and the FDA’s approval of an Alzheimer’s drug that slows down progression, have made headlines this week. However, several newsworthy studies have also shed light on important topics. From the impact of loneliness on heart disease in diabetic patients to the risks parents took during a baby formula shortage, here are some of the top health stories from this week:
The Link Between Loneliness and Heart Disease
In a recent study of over 18,000 diabetic adults in the UK, researchers discovered that loneliness may pose a greater risk for heart disease in diabetes patients than factors like diet, smoking, lack of exercise, or depression. The study followed diabetic patients without cardiovascular disease and used questionnaires to assess levels of loneliness. Over a period of 10 years, researchers found that the chances of developing cardiovascular disease were 11% to 26% higher in patients with the highest loneliness scores. Dr. Lu Qi, a professor at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, emphasized the importance of addressing loneliness for physical and emotional health, suggesting that patients with diabetes should consider joining groups or classes to make friends with shared interests.
Unsafe Feeding Methods During Baby Formula Shortage
During the baby formula shortage in the spring of 2022, nearly half of the parents who relied on formula to feed their babies resorted to unsafe feeding methods, according to researchers at the University of California, Davis. The shortage, caused by supply chain issues and a formula recall, led parents to water down formula, use expired or homemade formula, or acquire human milk from informal sharing resources. Such practices can be detrimental to infant growth and development. The study’s lead author, Jennifer Smilowitz, highlighted the importance of understanding that infants require a specific balance of nutrients, urging parents to prioritize their babies’ well-being by using safe feeding methods.
Cardio Fitness and Cancer Risk in Men
A new study from the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences suggests that men with higher cardiorespiratory fitness have a lower risk of dying from lung, colon, or prostate cancers. This study followed 177,709 Swedish men over nearly 10 years, measuring their ability to use oxygen during exercise. Even after accounting for lifestyle factors, such as diet and smoking habits, men with moderate or higher cardio fitness scores had a decreased chance of developing or dying from certain common cancers compared to those with lower scores. Exercise types that can improve cardio health over time include walking, running, swimming, and cycling.
Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Tap Water
A study released by the U.S. Geological Survey suggests that about 45% of tap water samples in the U.S. contain at least one type of “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. Previous studies have linked these synthetic compounds to various cancers and health issues. The study, which analyzed samples taken between 2016 and 2021, found that the heaviest exposures occurred in cities near potential sources of the compounds. While the report doesn’t provide policy recommendations, it emphasizes the importance of evaluating the risk of exposure and making informed decisions about drinking water. Testing, treatment, or seeking information from local authorities can help address concerns about PFAS contamination.
