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UK’s First Baby Born After Womb Transplant

Ben Linstrom — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 13:05:57 +0000

When Grace Davidson held her newborn daughter Amy for the first time this February, she became the first woman in the UK to give birth following a womb transplant—a moment that took nearly a decade to realize.

Diagnosed with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, a rare condition that left her without a functioning uterus, Grace had long been told pregnancy wasn’t an option. But in 2023, she received a womb from her sister Amy, and within months, she became pregnant through IVF. Her daughter, born on February 27, 2025, represents more than a personal milestone—it’s a significant advance in reproductive medicine.

The womb transplant birth is not just a medical success story. It gives hope to thousands of women living with uterine factor infertility (UFI), especially those with MRKH syndrome. In the UK, about 15,000 women of reproductive age are affected, including roughly 5,000 who are born without a uterus.

Surgery, Science, and Sisterhood

Baby Amy was delivered via a planned Caesarean section. Image is Representational.

In Oxford, a team of over 30 medical staff carried out a 17-hour operation to remove Amy Purdie’s uterus and transplant it into her younger sister. The sisters had spent years navigating options like surrogacy and adoption, but Grace wanted the chance to carry a child herself. She had always felt a “mothering instinct,” she said—something difficult to suppress, and even harder to let go of.

Grace’s pregnancy progressed well, with IVF successful on the first attempt. She experienced her first period within two weeks of the transplant—a crucial sign that the donor organ had integrated successfully.

When baby Amy arrived slightly early at 4.5 pounds via a planned Caesarean section, both parents were present, along with several members of the transplant and fertility teams. The baby’s full name, Amy Isabel, honors her aunt and the lead surgeon, Isabel Quiroga, who spearheaded the operation at Churchill Hospital.

Interestingly, Grace will eventually have the transplanted womb removed—likely after a second child. The reason is to reduce long-term health risks associated with daily immunosuppressants, which are necessary to prevent organ rejection but can increase the risk of cancer over time.

A Global and Growing Field

While this was the first successful womb transplant birth in the UK, the global field is steadily expanding. Since Sweden reported the first successful birth from a womb transplant in 2014, around 135 procedures have taken place in countries such as the US, China, India, and France. Approximately 65 babies have been born worldwide using this method.

In the UK, Womb Transplant UK has permission to carry out 15 transplants as part of a clinical trial. Grace’s surgery marked the first of its kind, followed by three more transplants using wombs donated after death. Each transplant costs around £30,000 and requires stored embryos before approval. The charity has funding for two more and is actively fundraising to continue.

What sets the UK program apart is its focus on both living and deceased donors. Deceased donor transplants involve additional legal and ethical hurdles, including consent from families. However, they also eliminate risks to a living donor, making them an important avenue for the future.

The Bigger Picture

Medical experts agree that this birth marks a “huge milestone” for reproductive healthcare in the UK. According to Stuart Lavery, consultant at UCLH, the achievement reflects not only scientific progress but also the resolve of patients and medical teams to push boundaries.

Still, womb transplantation is not without challenges. It remains a complex, expensive, and resource-intensive procedure. Long-term data on risks and outcomes are still emerging. Immunosuppressive therapy, surgical risks, and psychological tolls must all be considered. Yet, for women like Grace, the ability to carry and deliver a child is worth the complexity.

Grace and her husband Angus, who described the experience as overwhelming and deeply emotional, hope their story will offer new hope to others. And with baby Amy now safely at home, that hope is no longer theoretical—it’s living and breathing in the arms of her parents.

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Daily Nut Consumption Linked to Longer Disability-Free Life in Older Adults

Aswathy Naik — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 07:03:30 +0000

Aging populations worldwide face increasing risks of cognitive decline, physical disability, and chronic diseases. Diet has long been recognized as a key modifiable factor in promoting healthy aging. Recent research highlights the potential of daily nut consumption in extending the healthy lifespan of adults aged 70 and over.

Study Overview

A new study published in Age and Ageing explored the relationship between nut consumption and disability-free survival in 9,916 community-dwelling older adults. This prospective cohort study used data from the ASPREE Longitudinal Study, a large-scale investigation into healthy aging. Participants’ nut consumption habits were assessed through a food frequency questionnaire, categorizing intake as infrequent, weekly, or daily.

Key Findings

Reduced Risk of Disability: Participants consuming nuts daily had a 23% lower risk of experiencing physical disability, dementia, or death compared to those with infrequent intake.
Moderate Diet Benefits: Daily nut consumption was particularly beneficial for individuals with moderate overall diet quality, showing a 29% reduced risk of reaching disability-free survival endpoints.
Nutritional Advantages: Nuts are rich in unsaturated fats, protein, fiber, and micronutrients like magnesium and vitamin E, all of which contribute to better physical and cognitive health.

Why Nuts Matter in Aging

Nuts are nutrient-dense, providing key components for muscle maintenance, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. Their high levels of polyunsaturated fats, antioxidants, and dietary fiber promote anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. These benefits are especially relevant as aging increases vulnerability to oxidative stress and inflammation.

Implications and Recommendations

The study emphasizes the role of nuts in enhancing dietary quality and delaying age-related health decline. For older adults, incorporating a daily serving of nuts could be a simple yet impactful dietary adjustment to promote longevity and independence.

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Want to Live Longer? Science Shows How Quitting Smoking Helps at Any Age

Ben Linstrom — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 22:27:23 +0000

Smoking is a well-known health risk, but recent research shows that quitting can deliver significant benefits no matter your age. A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine highlights how people of different age groups can gain years of life and reduce disease risks by giving up smoking, even if they’ve been smokers for decades.

Early Quitters Reap the Biggest Rewards

According to the research, people who quit smoking by the age of 30 can gain up to a decade of extra life. The study shows that those who quit before 30 can see their health risks almost equal to those who have never smoked, reducing the likelihood of smoking-related diseases like lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory conditions.

Middle-Aged Quitters Also See Major Health Gains

Even if someone doesn’t quit by 30, quitting between ages 40 to 50 still brings notable benefits. This age group can gain up to six to nine years of life by quitting. The study emphasizes that these gains are due to a lower risk of chronic diseases and improved overall health.

Benefits for Seniors: It’s Never Too Late

The research also found that older smokers, including those in their 60s or beyond, benefit from quitting. Quitting at an older age may not reverse all risks, but it does lower the chance of life-threatening conditions and can significantly improve quality of life. The study reinforces that it’s truly never too late to quit and experience positive health changes.

Health Systems and Support

The study calls for healthcare providers to focus on providing accessible and supportive resources for quitting smoking, as this can make a substantial difference in the quality and length of life for individuals across all age groups. Programs that offer counseling, nicotine replacement, and prescription aids can support people in every stage of the quitting process.

This research highlights that quitting smoking is beneficial at any stage, with earlier quitting offering the most substantial health advantages. The key takeaway: no matter your age, there are clear, life-extending benefits to giving up smoking.

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New Study Shows Allulose Could Help Combat Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Katherine Wright — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 07:26:03 +0000

A groundbreaking study published in Nutrients has shown that a 12-week diet rich in allulose, a rare sugar, could have significant benefits for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study, conducted by researchers from Brigham Young University and other institutions, explored how allulose affects metabolic health in a rat model of diet-induced obesity and T2D.

What Is Allulose?

Allulose is a naturally occurring, low-calorie sweetener that has been gaining attention for its unique health benefits. Unlike other sugars, allulose does not raise blood glucose levels and may even promote fat loss. While it’s found in small amounts in certain fruits, allulose can now be manufactured and added to food products as a healthier sugar alternative.

Key Findings of the Study

The study, led by Dr. Kevin Cayabyab, investigated the effects of an allulose-rich diet on rats that were fed a high-fat, high-sugar diet designed to induce obesity and diabetes. Over 12 weeks, the allulose-supplemented rats showed significant improvements in several key health markers compared to those on a similar diet sweetened with stevia.

1. Weight Gain Reduction:

The rats consuming allulose gained significantly less weight than those in the stevia group, despite consuming a similar high-fat diet.
Allulose was found to reduce overall food intake in rats, suggesting it may help control appetite.

2. Improved Insulin Sensitivity:

Allulose improved insulin sensitivity, helping the rats manage their blood sugar levels more effectively.
The hormone GLP-1, known for regulating glucose and appetite, was significantly elevated in the allulose group, indicating improved metabolic regulation.

3. Liver and Fat Metabolism:

The study showed that allulose prevented fat accumulation in the liver, a common consequence of obesity that can lead to fatty liver disease.
It also enhanced the functioning of mitochondria, the energy-producing components in fat cells, promoting a more efficient breakdown of fats.

4. Reduced Inflammation:

Levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, were lower in the allulose group, indicating that the diet helped reduce inflammatory responses often linked to obesity.

Why This Matters

As obesity and type 2 diabetes continue to rise worldwide, the findings of this study could offer a new dietary solution. Allulose has the potential to be used as a healthier sugar alternative in foods, helping to control weight gain, improve blood sugar management, and reduce the risk of fatty liver disease without the need for drastic dietary changes.

Dr. Benjamin T. Bikman, co-author of the study, stated, “Our results suggest that allulose can be a game-changer in the fight against metabolic diseases. It offers a natural way to control body weight and improve insulin sensitivity, which are key factors in managing diabetes and obesity.”

Looking Ahead

While the study provides promising data, more research is needed to confirm these benefits in humans and determine the long-term effects of allulose consumption. However, the results add to a growing body of evidence supporting the use of allulose as a functional sweetener for better metabolic health.

As consumers seek healthier sugar alternatives, this study could pave the way for allulose to become a common ingredient in food products aimed at combating obesity and diabetes.

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Study Reveals 0.5 Percent Microplastic in Human Brain Tissue

Katherine Wright — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 11:22:46 +0000

A recent study has uncovered an alarming presence of microplastics within human brain tissue, raising serious concerns about the potential health implications of this widespread contamination. The findings, which have not yet undergone peer review, were derived from the analysis of 91 brain samples collected from autopsies earlier this year.

Disturbingly, every brain sample examined was found to contain microplastics. Even more concerning was the discovery that these brain samples harbored ten to twenty times more microplastics than liver and kidney samples from the same bodies. This suggests that the human brain could be one of the most plastic-contaminated tissues studied to date.

The data is staggering: in 24 of the brain samples, microplastics accounted for an average of 0.5 percent of the tissue’s weight. Matthew Campen, a professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the University of New Mexico and the study’s lead author, expressed his shock at the findings.

“It’s deeply unsettling,” Campen stated in an interview with The Guardian. “The amount of plastic we’re finding in our brains is far beyond anything I had anticipated or would have considered acceptable.”

This revelation adds the human brain to a growing list of body parts known to be affected by microplastic pollution. Previous research has identified microplastics in a range of tissues, including the testicles, penis, semen, arteries, heart, and lungs. Just last month, microplastics were detected in human bone marrow.

Although the exact impact of these microplastics on human health remains uncertain, scientists are increasingly concerned. Studies have already linked microplastic exposure to various health issues, such as fertility problems, compromised immune systems, memory impairment, and a surge in cancer cases among young people.

In some of the brain samples studied by Campen and his team, particularly those from individuals who had died from dementia-related conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, microplastics were found in concentrations up to ten times higher by weight. This finding hints at a potentially troubling connection between microplastic contamination and neurodegenerative diseases.

The situation appears to be worsening over time. The study also observed that the rise in microplastics in brain tissue samples correlates with the increasing levels of plastic pollution in the environment since 2016.

“It’s a clear trend,” Campen remarked. “The amount of plastic we’re seeing in the environment is steadily rising, and it’s reflected in what we’re finding in human tissue.”

In light of this growing body of evidence, scientists are urging immediate action to address the issue of plastic pollution.

“We must now treat this as a global emergency,” Sedat Gündoğdu, a microplastics expert from Cukurova University, told The Guardian.

Also Read: Microplastics Found in All Human Semen Samples in Study

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Advanced Biomaterial Promotes Cartilage Regrowth, Potentially Avoiding Knee Replacements

Ben Linstrom — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:27:32 +0000

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed an innovative cartilage regrowth biomaterial that has shown significant promise in regenerating high-quality cartilage in knee joints. This advancement, tested on a large-animal model, has the potential to transform the treatment of joint injuries and degenerative conditions.

In their study, scientists applied this new material to the damaged knee cartilage of the animals. Over a six-month period, they observed substantial improvements, with the material facilitating the growth of new cartilage. This newly formed cartilage was rich in essential biopolymers such as collagen II and proteoglycans, which are vital for maintaining the strength and pain-free function of joints.

“Our new therapy offers the possibility to repair tissues that otherwise lack the ability to regenerate on their own. We believe this treatment could address a significant unmet need in clinical practice,” said Samuel I. Stupp, the lead researcher from Northwestern.

Though the material may resemble a rubbery substance, it is actually a sophisticated network of molecular components that closely mimics the natural environment of cartilage in the body.

“Cartilage is crucial for joint function, and when it becomes damaged or deteriorates over time, it significantly impacts overall health and mobility,” Stupp explained. “Unfortunately, adult cartilage does not naturally regenerate, which makes our approach so valuable.”

This breakthrough builds upon previous work by Stupp’s team, where they used “dancing molecules” to encourage human cartilage cells to produce more tissue matrix proteins. In contrast, the current study introduces a hybrid biomaterial composed of two key elements: a bioactive peptide that binds to transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFb-1), a critical protein for cartilage growth, and modified hyaluronic acid, a natural polymer found in cartilage and joint fluid.

Stupp’s team created this biomaterial by combining bioactive peptides with chemically modified hyaluronic acid, forming nanoscale fiber bundles that replicate the structure of natural cartilage. This scaffold attracts the body’s cells to promote cartilage regeneration, and the bioactive signals embedded within the material encourage cells to populate the scaffold and repair the damaged tissue.

“Many people know hyaluronic acid from skincare products, but it’s also a key component found naturally in various tissues throughout the body, including joints,” Stupp noted. “We selected it because it closely resembles the natural polymers found in cartilage.”

To test its effectiveness, the researchers applied the material to cartilage defects in the knee joints of sheep, which share similar structure and mechanical load with human knees. When injected as a thick paste, the material created a rubbery structure within the joints, encouraging the growth of robust cartilage as the scaffold slowly broke down.

Looking to the future, Stupp envisions this material being used in joint surgeries, including both open-joint and arthroscopic procedures. Currently, microfracture surgery is the standard approach, where small fractures are made in the bone to stimulate cartilage growth.

However, with further development, this new biomaterial could offer a superior alternative. It has the potential to prevent the need for full knee replacements, treat conditions like osteoarthritis, and even repair injuries such as ACL tears, offering a long-term solution that could improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

References:

Northwestern University (2024). “New biomaterial regrows damaged cartilage in joints.” Available at: https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2024/august/new-biomaterial-regrows-damaged-cartilage-in-joints

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AI-Powered Tongue Analysis Achieves 98% Accuracy in Diagnosing Diseases

Aswathy Naik — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 18:44:24 +0000

A new computer algorithm has demonstrated a remarkable 98% accuracy in predicting various diseases by analyzing the color of the human tongue.

Developed by researchers from Iraq and Australia, the innovative imaging system is capable of diagnosing a range of health conditions including diabetes, stroke, anemia, asthma, liver and gallbladder issues, COVID-19, and several vascular and gastrointestinal disorders.

The engineering teams from Middle Technical University (MTU) and the University of South Australia (UniSA) made this breakthrough after conducting experiments that involved training machine learning algorithms with 5260 tongue images to detect specific colors associated with different diseases.

To validate their findings, two teaching hospitals in the Middle East contributed 60 tongue images from patients suffering from various health conditions. The artificial intelligence (AI) model successfully matched the tongue color with the corresponding disease in almost all cases.

The details of this new system, which uses tongue color analysis for real-time diagnosis, are published in the journal Technologies. The study highlights AI’s potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics.

Dr. Ali Al-Naji, a Senior Author from MTU and UniSA and an Adjunct Associate Professor, explains that AI is effectively modernizing a diagnostic technique that has been used for over 2000 years in traditional Chinese medicine—examining the tongue to detect signs of illness.

“The color, shape, and texture of the tongue can indicate a wide range of health issues,” Dr. Al-Naji notes. “For instance, a yellow tongue is often seen in people with diabetes; a purple tongue with a thick, greasy coating may be associated with cancer patients; and those who have suffered an acute stroke may present with an unusually shaped red tongue.”

He continues, “A white tongue can be a sign of anemia, while a deep red tongue is likely in severe cases of COVID-19. An indigo or violet tongue may point to vascular and gastrointestinal issues or asthma.”

During the research, cameras positioned 20 centimeters from a patient captured their tongue color, enabling the imaging system to predict their health condition in real-time.

Professor Javaan Chahl, a co-author from UniSA, anticipates that in the future, this technology could be integrated into smartphones for convenient disease diagnosis.

“These findings confirm that computerized tongue analysis is a secure, efficient, and user-friendly method for disease screening, merging modern techniques with an ancient practice,” Professor Chahl states.

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Processed Red Meat Linked to Higher Dementia Risk

Ben Linstrom — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 13:28:51 +0000

Recent research presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference has revealed a significant connection between the consumption of processed red meat and an increased risk of developing dementia. This study, which tracked over 130,000 participants for up to 43 years, found that those who consumed at least one-quarter serving of processed red meat daily had a 14% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who consumed less than one-tenth of a serving per day. This finding adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that diets high in processed foods can have detrimental effects on brain health.

The researchers analyzed dietary habits using data gathered from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. Food-frequency questionnaires were administered every two to four years, asking participants how often they consumed various foods, including processed red meats like bacon, hot dogs, and lunch meats, as well as nuts and legumes. Over the study period, 11,173 participants developed dementia.

Each additional daily serving of processed red meat was linked to an extra 1.6 years of cognitive aging, particularly affecting language ability and executive function. The high levels of saturated fats and cholesterol in processed red meats can lead to the buildup of cholesterol plaques in arteries, impairing blood flow to the brain and accelerating cognitive decline. Dr. Sham Singh, a psychiatrist at Winit Clinic who was not involved in the study, observed similar findings. He explained that excessive intake of saturated fats could contribute to atherosclerosis, which reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to brain cells, potentially accelerating cognitive decline.

Moreover, cooking methods such as grilling, frying, or broiling processed red meats can produce harmful compounds like heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These compounds induce oxidative stress and inflammation, further contributing to neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. Processed red meats often contain nitrates and nitrites, which are preservatives that can form harmful compounds in the body, increasing dementia risk.

The research also underscored the advantages of substituting processed red meat with nuts, beans, or legumes. Participants who made this substitution had a 20% lower risk of dementia. Nuts and legumes are rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support brain health and improve cardiovascular function. They contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory and help maintain healthy cell membranes in the brain.

Varsha Khatri, a certified nutritionist at Prowise Healthcare, pointed out that the fiber, vitamins, and minerals found in nuts and beans contribute to better heart and blood vessel health, reducing dementia risk by promoting improved blood flow to the brain. Additionally, these plant-based foods are abundant in polyphenols and other antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, a key factor in dementia development.

To reduce the risk of dementia, experts recommend gradually incorporating more nuts, beans, and legumes into the diet. Some practical approaches are to substitute beans for red meat in recipes, snack on nuts, and incorporate more plant-based meals into your weekly diet plan. Starting slowly and being prepared to use these ingredients in food preparation can help individuals make sustainable dietary changes.

Dr. Heather Snyder, vice president of medical and scientific relations at the Alzheimer’s Association, stressed the significance of maintaining a varied diet to support brain health. She noted that diets lower in fat and sugar and higher in vegetables are generally better for cognitive function. This aligns with findings from other studies showing that processed foods are linked to poorer health outcomes across the board, including increased risks of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

This research highlights how crucial dietary choices are for supporting brain health and lowering the risk of cognitive decline. While the findings show a strong association between processed red meat consumption and dementia risk, it is important to note that they do not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind this link and to explore the potential benefits of plant-based diets.

In conclusion, adopting a diet rich in nuts, beans, and legumes while reducing processed red meat intake may be a viable strategy to mitigate dementia risk and promote overall brain health. This research adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of plant-based diets for long-term cognitive health.

References:

Alzheimer’s Society (2024). “Eating processed red meat could be significant risk factor for dementia”. Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/news/2024-07-31/eating-processed-red-meat-could-be-significant-risk-factor-dementia.
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Alzheimer’s Association (2024). “Processed red meat raises risk of dementia”. Available at: https://aaic.alz.org/releases-2024/processed-red-meat-raises-risk-of-dementia.asp

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Researchers Uncover Diet’s Role in Rising Colon Cancer Rates Among Young Adults

Aswathy Naik — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 03:21:32 +0000

A team of scientists exploring the alarming increase in colon cancer diagnoses among young adults has made significant discoveries regarding the impact of diet on health.

An international review examining global dietary patterns revealed that those consuming a Western diet, characterized by high fat and sugar intake, face an increased risk of colorectal cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Published in the journal Nature Reviews Microbiology, the study analyzed how diet affects the gut microbiome – the community of microorganisms in our intestines – and how changes in its composition influence overall health.

“Our review highlights the profound impact of different diets on the gut microbiome,” stated lead author Prof. Catherine Stanton. “This understanding is crucial for developing dietary recommendations that promote health and prevent disease. It’s fascinating to see how dietary choices can influence the balance of microorganisms in our gut and their metabolic functions.”

The research compared six prevalent diets – Mediterranean, high-fiber, plant-based, high-protein, ketogenic, and Western – to determine their effects on gut bacteria associated with intestinal disorders.

Findings indicate that a Western diet rich in processed foods, red meat, sugary beverages, and high-fat products poses the highest risk. Conversely, a Mediterranean diet high in fruits and vegetables has the lowest risk and helps manage conditions like cardiovascular disease, IBD, and type 2 diabetes.

The study suggests that healthcare professionals could use these insights to develop targeted nutritional therapies to improve public health outcomes.

“This review is a significant milestone in microbiome research,” said Prof. Paul Ross, Director of APC Microbiome Ireland. “It provides a detailed look at how dietary patterns shape the gut microbiome and underscores the potential for diet-based interventions in clinical practice. It provides tangible data on how the microbiome is intrinsically relevant to creating health benefits for society.”

Research shows that while some cancers are declining in older adults, cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals, often before the age of 50. A recent study found that early-onset cancer cases “increased substantially” from 2010 to 2019, with breast cancer being the most common and gastrointestinal cancers growing the fastest.

Early-onset cancers, diagnosed in adults aged 18 to 49, tend to be more aggressive and less responsive to treatment.

The American Cancer Society reports that colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in men under 50 and the second leading cause of death in women under 50, following breast cancer. In early 2023, it was reported that 20% of colorectal cancer diagnoses in 2019 were in patients under 55, nearly double the rate in 1995, with advanced disease rates increasing by about 3% annually in people younger than 50.

Researchers find the increase in cases concerning, particularly because individuals in this age group are often too young for recommended routine cancer screenings, leading to delayed diagnoses and more advanced, harder-to-treat cancer.

“There is often a delay between the onset of symptoms and the actual diagnostic procedure to find the cancer,” said Jeremy Kortmansky, a Yale Medicine medical oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal cancers. “Some of that may be driven by patients who think, ‘I’m only 40—it’s probably not cancer, right?’ Other times, a physician may think rectal bleeding in a young patient is just a sign of hemorrhoids, so it’s important to advocate for yourself.”

The reasons behind the vulnerability of younger people to cancer diagnoses remain unclear, though several risk factors have been suggested.

Some research points to the increasing incidence of obesity, changes in environmental exposures like smoke and gasoline, sleep patterns, physical activity, microbiota, and transient exposure to carcinogenic compounds as potential contributors.

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 1 in 5 cancers is linked to excess body weight, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity.

Nature Reviews Microbiology. (2024). Impact of Dietary Patterns on the Gut Microbiome. Nature. doi:10.1038/s41579-024-01068-4.
APC Microbiome Ireland. (2024). Western Diets Pose Greater Risk of Cancer and IBD. University College Cork. Retrieved from https://www.ucc.ie/en/apc/news/apc-news/apc-study-finds-western-diets-pose-greater-risk-of-cancer-and-ibd.html
Yale Medicine. (2024). Early-Onset Cancer in Younger People on the Rise. Yale Medicine. Retrieved from https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/early-onset-cancer-in-younger-people-on-the-rise
JAMA Network. (2024). Incidence of Early-Onset Cancer in Younger Adults. JAMA Network Open. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.8381.

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Scientists Discover New Hormone in Breastfeeding Women That Accelerates Bone Healing

Ben Linstrom — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 06:22:56 +0000

Researchers from the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) and UC Davis have identified a groundbreaking hormone, CCN3, that accelerates bone healing and maintains bone strength in breastfeeding women. This discovery could revolutionize the treatment of osteoporosis and bone fractures.

The study aimed to unravel the mystery of how women’s bones remain unaffected despite the significant loss of calcium during milk production. Traditionally, estrogen was considered crucial for bone health, but the research revealed that another factor is at play.

Senior author Dr. Holly Ingraham and her team, while studying female mice, blocked an estrogen receptor in neurons in a small brain area, resulting in increased bone mass. They suspected a blood-borne hormone but couldn’t identify it initially. An exhaustive search led to the discovery of CCN3, a hormone behaving uniquely among those secreted by neurons.

“The notion that a hormone can be secreted directly from the brain is a new concept in endocrinology,” said Ingraham. This hormone was found in lactating female mice but not the receptor, suggesting it plays a vital role in bone health during lactation.

Without CCN3, lactating female mice lost bone mass, and their offspring lost weight, highlighting the hormone’s importance. When CCN3 levels were increased in mice, both male and female, their bone mass and strength significantly improved within weeks. Remarkably, CCN3 doubled bone mass in very old female mice and those lacking estrogen.

To test its healing properties, researchers created a hydrogel patch that released CCN3 over two weeks and attached it to bone fractures in older mice. The results were astonishing: the fractures healed at the rate of young mice, a feat previously unattainable with other strategies.

Dr. Thomas Ambrosi, a project collaborator, noted, “We’ve never been able to achieve this kind of mineralization and healing outcome with any other strategy.” The hormone not only promoted healing but also supported the production of new bone cells by stem cells in the bones.

With over 200 million people affected by osteoporosis worldwide, the potential applications of CCN3 are vast. Women post-menopause, breast cancer survivors on hormone blockers, elite female athletes, and older men at higher risk of fractures could benefit from treatments based on this hormone.

“This discovery could increase bone mass in various scenarios, providing a significant breakthrough in osteoporosis and fracture treatment,” said Ingraham. Researchers plan to continue studying the molecular mechanisms of CCN3 in breastfeeding women and its broader applications in bone health.

This research opens new avenues for treating bone conditions and highlights the critical role of previously overlooked physiological mechanisms.

References:

Babey, M.E., Krause, W.C., Chen, K. et al. “A maternal brain hormone that builds bone.” Nature, 10 July 2024. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07634-3.
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The National Institute on Aging has more about osteoporosis. University of California, San Francisco, news release, 10 July 2024. Available from: https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2024/07/429481/maternal-brain-hormone-bone-research.

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