Researchers see the new acceptance of telemedicine as an opportunity during clinical trials. Along with Zoom visits, numerous sensors on participants could provide constant monitoring of health conditions without traveling to see doctors, making control better.
Food Insecurity In 2020
An estimated 35 million people were food insecure last year, and the dislocations due to COVID-19 have made it much worse now. Experts discuss the health consequences of hunger, the strategies families are using to cope with economic dislocation, and one local effort typical of new volunteer programs to feed hungry children in need.
Rheumatoid Diseases
Rheumatoid diseases number around 100, though arthritis is the most well known. They can be crippling and sometimes even fatal, but good treatments exist. The key is early detection, as an expert explains.
Obesity Bias In Medicine
Studies show that medical professionals are as biased as the rest of us against people who are overweight, resulting in lectures, misdiagnoses, and patients who start avoiding the doctor. Experts explain the problem, results, and what might be done about it.
Kids’ Questions About COVID-19
Children are living through a scary time right now and often have little understanding of why their world has been turned upside down. A noted public health expert explains what he’s found about children’s concerns of the pandemic and how parents can answer their questions.
More Pets In The Pandemic
Pets are a comfort in difficult times, and the pandemic is no exception. Animal shelters report a surge in pet adoptions, especially puppies, in the last six months, and veterinarians are having to adopt procedures such as telemedicine to deal with the increase while still staying safe. Experts explain how adopting and training a new pet has changed in the pandemic.
The Anger Epidemic
Psychologists say there’s more anger in our society than ever. But they say that should be no surprise, since anger is often a reaction to uncertainty and fear. Two experts discuss the genesis of anger, how it serves a purpose, and how it can be controlled.
Overworked Pharmacists: Mistakes Waiting To Happen?
Pharmacists are often asked to do more work in less time than they need, and some experts worry it’s causing medication mistakes. A pharmacist specializing in medication safety discusses pressures on pharmacists and what consumers can do to protect themselves.
Imposter Syndrome
Many people who are smart, talented and successful still believe they are incompetent on the inside and that others will eventually find out. This “imposter syndrome” can undermine careers and lead to psychological distress. Two noted experts in the field discuss origins and how to deal with the phenomenon.
The Looming “Hothouse Earth”
Rising global temperatures have produced extreme weather and a rising sea level. Climate scientists fear we may soon reach the point of no return, resulting in a hothouse with large portions of the planet uninhabitable. Authors of a major report on this phenomenon explain.
Planning for the Next Pandemic
The next pandemic is only a matter of “When and what,” according to health security experts, who here discuss what’s needed to be ready for a variety of possible pandemics and infectious threats, both natural and terror.
Third World Medicine
Medicine in the Third World is vastly different than in the US, and American doctors sometimes run into unexpected hurdles when they try to bring modern medicine to impoverished nations. One such doctor describes his efforts.
Lisfranc Injuries Not Just A Sprained Foot Or Ankle
People who injure their foot often think they have a mere sprained foot or ankle when they actually have an injury that is potentially much more severe and disabling if not treated. Experts explain the Lisfranc joint and injuries that can hurt it.
Reading Our Masked Faces
With faces hidden behind masks for COVID-19, we are losing some of the visual information we depend on for smooth communication. Experts discuss the awkward encounters and specific looks we’re likely to misinterpret when we can’t see other people’s mouths.
Who Gets A Vaccine?
Development of a Coronavirus vaccine is proceeding at a breakneck pace. What needs to happen to make sure it’s safe and effective? And if a vaccine is successfully made, who should get it first? Will enough people opt in to get back to normal life, or will COVID-19 be with us for years? Experts discuss.