Study shows evidence green spaces in U.S. cities can significantly decrease mortality
Increasing green space in U.S. cities can significantly decrease mortality. It’s been shown that living in greener areas positively impacts physical and mental health, but now there’s evidence that it also contributes to life expectancy. According to a study published in Frontiers in Public Health, increasing green vegetation in metropolitan areas can prevent thousands of deaths among adults 65 and older. Researchers are now urging urban planners to incorporate greener environments in their designs.
Type 2 diabetes drug found to improve blood vessel function and reduce arterial stiffness
Can a diabetes drug be used to treat cardiovascular disease? The drug empagliflozin is typically used to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, a study published in GeroScience found that it’s effective in improving blood vessel function and reducing arterial stiffness in older mice. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for older adults in the U.S., but further research is needed to see if the drug will be effective in treating the condition in humans.
Covid-19 vaccine may not protect you from long Covid
Being fully vaccinated against Covid-19 may not protect you from long Covid. A paper published in Nature Medicine has found that even those with mild breakthrough infections of Covid-19 can experience long Covid. The symptoms can affect important organs like the heart, brain, and lungs. Despite this, experts say that vaccines are still the best way to prevent severe illness and death.
Silicone wristbands may help firefighters avoid cancer
And finally… firefighters are more likely to get cancer than the general population, but a bracelet may be able to change that. Researchers gave 20 firefighters silicone wristbands for a study published in Science of the Total Environment. The silicone can detect exposure to 134 chemical compounds, many of which are carcinogens. They can also help firefighters pinpoint when and where they are being exposed to harmful substances (Duke University).
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