Revisiting the measles: Who should get a vaccine?
Source: Medical Xpress
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 700 confirmed measles cases have been reported in at least 25 states as of mid-April—and that number continues to grow. Most cases are among people who are unvaccinated, have an unknown vaccination status or are children. The highly contagious disease can lead to serious complications and hospitalizations, and two deaths have already been confirmed.
Diet high in fiber, fermented foods could keep inflammatory diseases at bay
Source: Medical News Today
Chronic inflammation is a major driver of lifestyle-related diseases, like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. New research highlights how profoundly a modern Western diet, high in processed foods and low in whole plant-based foods, can contribute to this chronic inflammation.
New blood test may help diagnose, show how far Alzheimer’s has progressed
Source: Medical News Today
There are currently a few tests, including blood tests, that can be used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s and determine which stage the disease is in. Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a blood test that can not only help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, but can also provide information to doctors on how far the disease has progressed.
Hypertension is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease
Source: Medical Xpress
Almost half of adults in America—about 108 million people—have hypertension. Hypertension, which is also known as high blood pressure, can constrict and narrow the blood vessels in important organs such as the heart and kidneys, causing long-lasting damage. It is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease.
Popular sweetener may increase weight gain by boosting hunger
Source: Medical News Today
A new study investigated how sucralose, a non-caloric sweetener, affects brain signals related to hunger. The researchers compared the effects of sucralose to water and sucrose (sugar) among healthy young adults. The findings suggest that sucralose may impact the brain in a way that could promote overeating.
