Researchers have used strands of Ludwig van Beethoven's hair to uncover clues about the health problems and hearing loss that plagued him. Through DNA analysis, they found a genetic risk for liver disease, plus a liver-damaging hepatitis B infection in the last months of his life. The study's primary goal was to shed light on Beethoven's health problems and to honor his wish that his ailments be studied and shared.
Posts published in “Health”
Tamia Potter made history as the first African American female to be accepted into Vanderbilt University Medical Center's neurosurgery residency program on National Match Day. Potter shared her emotional reaction to the news on social media, and began her medical career as a certified nursing assistant at 17 years old in 2014. Her acceptance marks a milestone for the university and the medical field, and is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her studies.
A powerful storm system has caused extensive damage across California, with high winds, flooding, and a possible tornado leaving more than 120,000 homes and businesses without power. The National Weather Service has sent teams to assess the damage and urged people to remain vigilant for further severe weather. One person was injured in the incident and Pacific Gas and Electric warned that flooding and fallen trees could cause further delays in restoring power.
A new report released by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has revealed a concerning trend of worsening drug shortages in the United States, with new drug shortages increasing by nearly 30% from 2021 to 2022. The report identified three main causes of the shortages: economic drivers, reliance on foreign sources, and poor visibility of the pharmaceutical supply chain. The committee has called for more transparency in the pharmaceutical supply chain and for the government to take steps to address the underlying causes of the shortages.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is recovering from a concussion and rib fracture after a fall, while Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) is receiving treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed Medical Center. Two other senators are also away from the Capitol due to health issues, and it is unclear when any of them will return.
GOOD Meat has received a "no questions" letter from the FDA, indicating that the administration is satisfied that their lab-grown chicken product is safe to sell in the US. The company is now in talks with restaurants and food service companies about potential partnerships, and needs approval from the US Department of Agriculture in order to sell to consumers. If approved, GOOD Meat's lab-grown chicken would be the first of its kind to hit the market in the US, and is said to be more sustainable and healthier than traditional chicken.
A severe sandstorm has blanketed Beijing and several northern provinces in China in thick clouds of orange dust, causing air pollution to reach hazardous levels and visibility to drop significantly. The Chinese government has issued a red alert warning people to stay indoors and for drivers to reduce their speed. The sandstorm is a reminder of the need to take care of the environment and reduce air pollution, and the Chinese government is taking steps to do so.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court recently ruled that women have the right to an abortion when pregnancy risks their health, expanding the right to an abortion beyond medical emergency cases. The ruling is expected to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, and a federal judge will decide if the FDA-approved abortion pill should be blocked across the country pending the outcome of the appeal. The outcome of the appeal could have far-reaching implications for abortion rights in the United States.