How Netflix is helping with childhood cancer treatment
Kids have to lie still for up to 30 minutes for radiation therapy – many of them receive general anesthesia to help. Unfortunately, this comes with a whole list of risks and potential complications. Instead, researchers are using videos as a potential alternative. In a new study, they allowed children to watch their favorite shows during treatment. Seventy-eight percent of kids were able to hold still for at least one session, with the most success in children ages three and four. the study is published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics (Stanford University).
Microplastics may be messing with our sex hormones
A mouse study in the journal Particle and Fiber Toxicology shows that inhaling moderate levels of a common plastic decreased reproductive hormone levels in females. Scientists think this effect could help explain increasing health issues like obesity and infertility. Unfortunately, researchers say there isn’t much we can do to reduce our exposure to microplastics (Rutgers University).
Do you know the warning signs of cancer?
The number of colorectal cancer diagnoses in young adults has almost doubled in recent years. Luckily, researchers have identified four red flags to look out for in people below the age of 50. These include rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and iron deficiency anemia – and can happen up to two years before a diagnosis. The results are published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (Washington University in St. Louis).
Your child’s favorite drink may be toxic
Research in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis sampled 60 beverages commonly found in grocery stores. Five drinks had levels of toxic metals above the federal drinking water standard. These toxins include arsenic and nickel. Scientists say the heightened levels were most common in mixed-fruit juices and plant-based milks (Tulane University).
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