The flu shot is a big deal worldwide. But does it have any hidden effects on our brain? Some studies suggest it might be linked to brain diseases like Alzheimer's or multiple sclerosis. However, the results are mixed, and no one is sure yet. Brain diseases are scary and complicated. They involve th
Researchers have found that a specific type of RNA, called SDCBP2-AS1, might be a key player in bone health, especially for women after menopause. This RNA doesn't make proteins but seems to help control how bone-forming cells develop. The study looked at blood samples from women with postmenopausal
Chronic pain is a widespread issue, impacting about 30% of people worldwide. It's not just a physical struggle; it seeps into every part of life, from happiness to work and social connections. Yet, we often overlook how friends, family, and society shape this experience. When someone lives with chr
Heart failure is a serious issue in Latin America and the Caribbean, often leading to poor health and a lower quality of life. Once diagnosed, patients face a tough journey of rehabilitation and adopting healthier habits. However, sticking to treatment plans is easier said than done. Technology is
Medical devices are tricky. They're not like drugs. They have learning curves, affect how hospitals work, and their prices change over time. Plus, there's often not much data on them. This makes it hard to figure out if they're worth the money. People study these things to help decide where to spen
Heart patients with mechanical aortic valves often need blood thinners for life. These meds, called vitamin K antagonists, stop dangerous clots from forming on the new valve. The usual target for blood thinning, measured by INR, is 2. 5. But some patients have extra risks. If they have atrial fibri
New Zealand's public mental health services are facing a big problem. More and more psychiatrists are choosing to leave their jobs. This is a serious issue because it affects the care that people receive. There are many reasons why psychiatrists are leaving. One big reason is the workload. They hav
Lung cancer is a major killer, claiming many lives each year. One of the scariest things that can happen is when lung cancer spreads to the brain. This is called brain metastasis, or BM for short. It's a big problem for people with a type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC. B
In New Zealand, managing cholesterol levels after a heart attack is crucial. The focus is on low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called "bad" cholesterol. After a first heart attack, doctors aim to keep LDL in check to prevent further issues. However, there's a gap in how well this is being done.
Type 2 diabetes is a tricky condition. It's not just about what you eat or how much you exercise. Your genes play a role too. One gene, called MTHFR, helps your body process folate, a vital nutrient. Scientists have found that changes in this gene might be connected to diabetes. In a recent study,
