Health & Biotech

A team of scientists led by the University of California Davis Health discovered that human brains have been growing larger over the decades, with babies born in the 1970s showing a 15 percent increase in brain surface area and 6.6 percent more brain volume compared to those born in the 1930s. This increase in brain size could potentially help stave off dementia as individuals age, according to a study published in JAMA Neurology, based on MRI data from the Framingham Heart Study.

Renowned bodybuilder, actor, and ex-politician Arnold Schwarzenegger recently underwent pacemaker surgery, humorously referring to himself as becoming more of a “machine,” reflecting his iconic Terminator role. Despite the procedure, the 76-year-old is in high spirits, already active in environmental events. His decision stemmed from previous heart surgeries causing irregular beats. With pacemakers benefiting millions, Schwarzenegger encourages self-care and following professional medical advice. Despite health challenges, he aims to resume filming for “FUBAR” soon.

Several women have accused neuroscientist Andrew Huberman of manipulation and infidelity, detailed in a New York Magazine exposé. Despite his public focus on health and wellness, the article sheds light on his complex personal life, including secret relationships and controlling behavior. One woman, referred to as Sarah, described feeling misled and eventually learning she contracted an STI while dating Huberman. The allegations paint a troubling picture of a man whose private actions contradict his public image.

On social media, a strange trend is emerging: surprise pregnancies linked to the diabetes drug Ozempic and weight loss shot Wegovy. People may be unexpectedly getting pregnant due to increased fertility from weight loss caused by these drugs. Changes in stomach lining can impact birth control efficacy as well. Novo Nordisk has even set up a website for reporting pregnancies while using Wegovy. Though a happy surprise for some, these pregnancies carry risks and require careful consideration.

The loneliness epidemic, often overlooked as a high-risk lifestyle factor, has emerged as a significant threat to health, especially among seniors. Recent research from the Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Medicine reveals that loneliness among individuals aged 65 and older may pose greater health risks than alcoholism, obesity, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle. This groundbreaking study underscores the urgent need for healthcare providers to address loneliness as a critical biophysical stressor affecting seniors’ well-being.

In the Netherlands, an elderly couple chose to have a bittersweet end through euthanasia, as they both battled dementia and muscular disease, holding hands as they peacefully passed away, a rare event for Dutch doctor Bert Keizer who has aided over 125 individuals in their deaths, highlighting the unique circumstances that brought this couple’s shared journey to a dignified and synchronized close amidst the ongoing debate about the legalization and ethical considerations surrounding euthanasia.

During a recent interview on “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, comedian Tracy Morgan humorously boasted about his ability to out-eat the pharmaceutical Ozempic, despite gaining 40 pounds. Ozempic, known for treating diabetes and aiding in weight loss by reducing appetite, has gained popularity, even among celebrities like Morgan and Oprah Winfrey. The effectiveness and long-term safety of Ozempic and similar drugs remain debated, with conflicting reports on weight regain after stopping the medication.

Medicare is considering covering the weight-loss treatment drug Wegovy, popular among celebrities, but only for those with a history of heart disease using it to prevent heart attacks and strokes. This move could expand access, especially since current Medicare plans do not cover obesity treatments. The drug, semaglutide, helps reduce appetite and cardiovascular risk, but its high cost may decrease as more competitors enter the market. Negotiations on pricing under President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act could make Wegovy more accessible to those in need.

Oviva Therapeutics, a pharma company, aims to develop a drug allowing women to delay or potentially prevent menopause. Founder Daisy Robinton expressed optimism despite the treatment being in early stages. The drug, using anti-Müllerian hormone, targets ovarian rejuvenation. With previous success in animal trials, the innovation presents a unique approach to managing menopause. This bold vision offers women the possibility of extended health span and optional menopause through therapeutic intervention, challenging traditional views on aging and reproductive health.