Then they learned her twin brother had it, too. (STAT)
NIH director Francis Collins on the Delta variant, vaccine hesitancy, and measuring success (The Washington Post)
What is the ‘Delta variant’? And how will it affect the COVID-19 pandemic? (STAT)
Covid-19 vaccines are not causing deaths, CDC says (The New York Times)
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In a groundbreaking move, researcher and physician Alex Keuroghlian has written the first editorial on transgender health research in the entire 150-year history of the journal Science. This historic moment was made possible after Keuroghlian met Science editor-in-chief Holden Thorp at a dinner celebrating the 2024 STATUS List. This editorial marks a significant step forward in highlighting the importance of transgender health research in the scientific community.
In other news, former president Trump’s vague statements regarding a healthcare plan have caused confusion and criticism. Trump’s running mate JD Vance attempted to clarify the plan in a recent NBC interview, emphasizing coverage for pre-existing conditions and the use of risk pools. However, the lack of specifics in Trump’s platform has led to Democrats criticizing the proposed plan as discriminatory against those with pre-existing conditions.
On the topic of near-sightedness, a new report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine calls for standardized diagnostic criteria for myopia. The report recommends classifying myopia as a disease that requires an official diagnosis to improve prevention and treatment efforts. Additionally, the report highlights the importance of outdoor time for children to strengthen their vision and reduce the risk of myopia.
The fallout from a retracted study on gender dysphoria continues to be felt, with implications for how research on marginalized communities is conducted. The retracted study, which failed to obtain proper consent and used a biased sample, led to the resignation of an editor at a Nature journal. This incident underscores the importance of involving marginalized communities in the research process.
Former CDC director Rochelle Walensky and physician Mark Siedner discuss the challenges of ending HIV drug experimentation in Africa in a new First Opinion essay. They highlight the need to ensure that HIV treatments tested in Africa are made accessible to the populations that need them most. The authors call for a shift in how drug companies approach HIV drug testing and distribution in African countries.
A new study on food contact materials raises questions about the potential health risks of chemicals in food packaging. The study found that a significant percentage of known food contact chemicals have been detected in humans, suggesting the need for stricter regulations. However, gaps in knowledge remain regarding the impact of these chemicals on human health, highlighting the need for further research in this area. Chronic pain is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite advancements in medical research and treatment options, many individuals continue to suffer from persistent pain that impacts their daily lives. A recent article published in Nature explores the case of a woman who is still experiencing pain despite undergoing various treatments and therapies. The question remains: why is she still in pain?
The article delves into the intricate nature of chronic pain, highlighting the challenges faced by both patients and healthcare providers in managing this condition effectively. The woman in question has tried numerous medications, physical therapy, and alternative therapies, but none have provided lasting relief. This case underscores the need for a more comprehensive and personalized approach to pain management.
One of the key takeaways from the article is the importance of understanding the underlying mechanisms of pain. Chronic pain is not just a physical sensation but also a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. It is crucial for healthcare providers to take a holistic approach to pain management, addressing not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and social aspects of the condition.
The article also emphasizes the need for continued research and innovation in the field of pain management. New advancements in technology, such as neuroimaging and genetic testing, hold promise for identifying personalized treatment approaches for individuals with chronic pain. By gaining a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of pain, researchers and healthcare providers can develop more targeted and effective interventions.
In conclusion, the case of the woman in the article highlights the challenges and complexities of chronic pain. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, a multidisciplinary approach that considers the biological, psychological, and social aspects of pain is essential for effective management. By continuing to invest in research and innovation, we can hope to improve the lives of individuals living with chronic pain and ultimately find better ways to alleviate their suffering.
