A couple of highlights from around the web that made it into our feeds recently.
What Can We Learn from Menstrual Blood?
Menstrual blood is finally being studied seriously. This is a fascinating exploration of endometriosis and the innovative research that is turning menstrual blood into a promising diagnostic tool. This article really highlights a vital shift towards understanding and treating often overlooked reproductive health issues in women. Shedding light on the struggles for diagnosis and the hope that non-invasive technologies might offer for future care. (From newyorker.com)
It Eats Plastic. You Eat It.
An intriguing look at the use of plastic-consuming microbes to tackle waste and potentially provide a new food source. While the article explores a novel approach to sustainability, it also touches on the broader implications of plastics in our bodies, which is being linked to significant health issues more and more—a topic that heart surgeon Isaac George, MD, discussed in this video about plastic found in carotid plaque. (From theatlantic.com)
We’re Applying Lessons From Covid to Bird Flu. That’s Not Good.
Are we prepared for bird flu? By comparing the present sobering parallels with the U.S. Covid response, the answer is no. This read underscores the urgent need for better surveillance and proactive public health measures and highlights how past lessons could guide us in addressing this emerging threat more effectively. A discussion that is not just important—it's a must for understanding how our response to one crisis shapes our readiness for the next. (From nytimes.com)
Insurers can restrict mental health care. What laws protect patients in your state?
For many, access to mental health care can be a labyrinth of administrative red tape and cost, but some state laws do have varied protections against insurer restrictions. From the many hurdles we face to the laying out of state-by-state legal requirements and potential for legislative reform, this article echoes the importance of promoting informed discussions about mental health care and advocating for comprehensive patient rights. (From npr.org)
Related:
- What We’re Reading: 07/26/24
- “Dr. AI” Video Series: Can ChatGPT Step Up to The Medical Challenge?
- The Culture Consult: Dr. Craig Smith on What He’s Been Reading Lately