Health

Recent data shows a significant decline in e-cigarette use among middle and high school students, reaching the lowest levels seen in a decade. The latest results from a national school survey conducted from January to May 2024 indicate that only about 8 percent of high school students have used e-cigarettes in the past month, a sharp decline from the 2019 peak. In 2019, the survey reported that 27% of high school students were vaping, marking a troubling trend in teen health behavior. The substantial decrease in numbers this year not only represents a decline from previous years, but also suggests…

A recent scientific study has uncovered a troubling link between disease-related declines in bat populations and rising infant mortality rates. The research highlights a chain reaction in which the decline in bats, natural predators of insects, has led farmers to increase their use of pesticides to protect crops, inadvertently impacting human health. The study, published in the journal Science, found that counties across the United States that experienced a decline in bat numbers saw a 31 percent increase in insecticide use. This increase in pesticide use correlated with an 8 percent increase in infant mortality in those regions. This research…

In the field of healthcare, especially orthopedic medicine, a growing problem is emerging as obesity rates rise along with related health problems such as arthritis. A significant challenge is presented to surgeons when their patients are obese, especially those with a high body mass index (BMI), complicating common surgeries such as joint replacements. Janet Daniels of Alexandria, VA, has struggled with obesity since childhood and now, at the point where both of her knees need to be replaced, she is repeatedly met with rejections from surgeons who deem the procedure too risky because of her weight. This not only impacts…

Urban centers across Europe are increasingly embracing their waterways as focal points for recreation and ecological restoration. This article explores six cities where residents and visitors can enjoy a swim in beautifully rehabilitated urban waters. Paris: The Renaissance of Historic River Baths Paris has a long tradition of river swimming, dating back to when floating pools lined the Seine. Today, the Bassin de la Villette, a vast artificial lake on the edge of the city, is home to clean, freely accessible freshwater pools. Part of the Paris Plages event, these facilities are open from July to September, offering a summer…

A recently launched awareness campaign in Burlington, Vermont, challenges traditional views of addiction with a powerful message displayed on an airport walkway: “Addiction is not a choice. It is a disease that can affect anyone.” The initiative seeks to change public perceptions and promote a more compassionate approach to those struggling with addiction. For many years, the medical community has recognized addiction as a chronic brain disease, but this perspective has struggled to gain widespread acceptance. The general public often views addiction through the lens of personal responsibility, influencing how drug use policies and sanctions are structured. Recent trends show…

Acadia Healthcare, one of the largest chains of psychiatric hospitals in the United States, has seen its revenues and stock price skyrocket in recent years. But a New York Times investigation reveals a disturbing truth: Part of that success comes from the exploitation of vulnerable patients. Retaining patients for profit, not to cure them The investigation found evidence that Acadia pressured patients to stay in their facilities, even when they were not medically necessary, to maximize insurance payouts. This practice violates involuntary detention laws, which are designed to protect those who pose a threat to themselves or others. Examples of…