Category Archives: medicine

There’s No Gender Equality in Heart Health – Liberty Nation News

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If you think a quick jog or a few gym sessions a week will keep your heart in top shape, you might want to think again—especially if you’re a man. New research suggests men may need to exercise twice as much as women to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.

### When It Comes to a Healthy Heart, Sex Matters

A large study published in *Nature Cardiovascular Research* examined how much exercise men and women need to lower their risk of heart disease. Researchers tracked more than 85,000 adults from the UK Biobank—people who did not have heart disease at the start—and followed them for nearly eight years.

Instead of relying on self-reported exercise habits, participants wore devices such as fitness trackers that recorded how much they actually moved throughout the day. The results revealed a surprising difference between men and women.

### Exercise Benefits: Women vs. Men

Women who exercised a few hours a week experienced major heart benefits. Specifically, women who got about four hours of moderate-to-vigorous activity weekly reduced their risk of heart disease by roughly 30%.

Men, however, needed nearly twice as much activity—around nine hours per week—to achieve the same level of protection.

The study also investigated deaths from coronary heart disease (CHD), which can lead to heart attacks. Women who met the standard exercise guidelines of about 150 minutes per week were 70% less likely to die from CHD. In contrast, men saw a much smaller reduction in mortality risk—only about 19%.

### Current Exercise Guidelines vs. Study Findings

Currently, major health organizations like the World Health Organization and the American Heart Association recommend the same amount of exercise for everyone: at least 150 minutes of moderate activity (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running) per week.

This study suggests that this one-size-fits-all recommendation may not be sufficient for men to achieve optimal heart health.

### Why the Difference? Biological and Hormonal Factors

The researchers did not pinpoint exactly why the results differ by sex but suspect biological and hormonal factors play a role. Women naturally produce more estrogen, which helps keep blood vessels flexible and may affect how the heart responds to physical activity.

Men and women also store fat differently and have different body compositions, which could influence how exercise impacts their cardiovascular systems.

A report published by PubMed Central explains:
> “While it is widely recognized that the female heart is smaller than the male heart, it has long been ignored that it also has a different microstructural architecture.
> On average, the mass of the adult female heart ranges from 230 to 280 g and is about 26% lighter than the male heart, which varies from 280 to 340 g. For both women and men, the mass of the heart continues to increase with age, and female hearts remain consistently smaller than male hearts.”

Women also tend to have higher resting heart rates than men, but their hearts take longer to transition from contraction to relaxation.

### Additional Factors Increasing Men’s Risk

Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel discussed the study on *America’s Newsroom*, noting that men typically have higher testosterone levels, which can be “bad for cholesterol.” Men also tend to accumulate fat “in the wrong places,” such as in the gut, leading to inflammation.

Lifestyle factors contribute as well. Dr. Siegel pointed out, “We smoke more, we drink more, we don’t exercise as much. All of that puts us at risk for heart disease.”

### Sex-Specific Heart Disease Prevention

The study’s findings add to what doctors have long observed: men and women often experience heart disease differently. Women tend to develop heart disease later in life, often after menopause when estrogen levels decline, whereas men usually develop it earlier.

The authors emphasized the importance of tailored prevention strategies:
> “Our findings underscore the value of sex-specific tailored CHD [coronary heart disease] prevention strategies using wearable devices, which may help bridge the ‘gender gap’ by motivating females to engage in physical activity.”

### Participant Details and the Bigger Picture

The average age of participants was around 61, with 57.3% women included in the primary study. In the mortality analysis, the average age was 66, and women made up 30% of that group.

Heart disease remains the world’s leading cause of death, responsible for nearly 18 million deaths annually according to the World Health Organization. In the United States alone, it causes one in every five deaths.

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**Bottom line:** While any exercise is better than none, men may need to double their workout time compared to women to significantly reduce heart disease risk. This new evidence could revolutionize exercise guidelines and promote more personalized heart health recommendations for both sexes.
https://www.libertynation.com/theres-no-gender-equality-in-heart-health/

What women should know ahead of National Mammography Day

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FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Breast cancer affects thousands of women every year. According to Dr. Christine Zhang, “One out of eight women has the chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime, and, unfortunately, one out of 42 women will die from the disease.”

Early detection is crucial, as it significantly increases the chances of survival. “The survival rate when breast cancer is detected early is quite substantial,” Dr. Zhang explained. “Stage 1 breast cancer has a five-year survival rate of 93%.”

Despite high survival rates and advances in treatment, doctors continue to see new cases of breast cancer. Dr. Zhang notes that many women remain hesitant to come in for their screening mammograms, often because of concerns about how the imaging is done and the discomfort it may cause.

The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to a decline in screening rates, as fewer women sought medical appointments during that time.

At the newly opened Kaiser Permanente Fresno Orchard Plaza Medical Offices, mammogram screenings are now available to patients. Dr. Zhang, a Medical Oncologist, says routine screenings typically begin at age 40. However, women with higher risk factors may need to start earlier.

“Women with a known family history of a BRCA gene mutation or a strong family history of breast cancer in first-degree and second-degree relatives are recommended to begin screening at a younger age,” she said.

In addition to clinical screenings, Dr. Zhang emphasizes the importance of self-exams at home, particularly for younger women. “We recommend self-exams in the shower or after the shower for women of all age groups,” she advised.

Health experts stress that if you notice anything unusual, you should see your doctor immediately. They also encourage reminding the women in your life to schedule and keep their yearly mammogram appointments. Early detection saves lives.
https://abc30.com/post/what-women-should-know-ahead-national-mammography-day/18020432/

ブタの腎臓移植、27年にも治験　明大発ベンチャー企業

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2025年10月11日19時45分（19時46分更新）

[有料会員限定記事]

クリップ機能は有料会員の方のみお使いいただけます。

西日本新聞meとは？

明治大学発のベンチャー企業「ポル・メド・テック」（川崎市）は11日、拒絶反応が抑えられるよう遺伝子改変したブタの腎臓を人へ移植する「異種移植」の臨床試験（治験）を、早ければ2027年にも始める方針を明らかにしました。

この記事は有料会員限定です。残り301文字。

7日間無料トライアル。1日37円で読み放題。年払いならもっとお得。

https://www.nishinippon.co.jp/item/1410300/

Toronto hospital performs first Canadian heart transplant after circulatory death

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**Historic First in Canada: Successful Heart Transplant Using Donation After Circulatory Death**

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, surgeons at Toronto’s University Health Network (UHN) have successfully completed a heart transplant using a donor whose heart had stopped beating. This innovative technique, known as donation after circulatory death (DCD), marks a significant milestone for Canada’s organ transplant landscape.

Unlike traditional heart transplants that rely on organs from brain-dead donors whose hearts continue to beat, the DCD approach recovers hearts after life support is withdrawn and the heart has stopped beating. This expands the donor pool and offers new hope for patients on transplant waiting lists.

In early September, a team at UHN’s Toronto General Hospital performed the novel transplant. Dr. Ali Rabi, the cardiac surgeon at UHN’s Peter Munk Cardiac Centre who led the surgery, explained the significance of the procedure:
“Before, we only used hearts from brain-dead donors whose hearts were still beating. Now, we can use hearts that have stopped beating after life support is withdrawn. These are donors who are not considered brain dead. They have a few basic reflexes but no prospect of recovery. That decision is made by the patient, their family, their treatment team, and a neurology team. The family then decides they do not want their loved one to continue like this.”

Heart failure remains one of the most common causes of hospital admission and death in Canada. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, by the end of 2024, there were 155 adults and 29 children waiting for a heart transplant. Dr. Rabi highlighted the impact of this new technique:
“Because of this surgery, we increase the number of heart transplants by 20 to 40 per cent. This will also reduce the number of people who never receive a heart transplant and die waiting for one.”

This technique is not entirely new globally—it has been successfully used in countries including Australia, the U.K., and the United States. In Canada, it is expected to increase heart transplants by approximately 30 percent. A representative shared the emotional impact of seeing the new heart beating:
“When the heart started beating again in the new patient, it’s amazing. The heart’s natural strength is incredible. This breakthrough shows how innovation can save more lives. Congratulations to UHN for this historic milestone.”

Dr. Rabi also acknowledged the profound generosity of donor families:
“It’s the hardest day of their lives, but many find comfort knowing their loved one helped save others.”

Recent data from Australia and the U.S. indicate no difference in long-term survival between recipients of DCD hearts and those receiving organs from traditional brain-dead donors. Dr. Rabi is optimistic about the future of heart transplantation:
“I encourage young people who are interested in heart failure and heart transplant to look at the field, and I guarantee you in the next five years, the field will be completely unrecognizable.”

This landmark surgery not only expands opportunities for patients in need but also represents a hopeful leap forward in cardiac care and transplant innovation in Canada.
https://globalnews.ca/news/11469587/toronto-heart-transplant/

Breakthrough Israeli AI slashes head-CT wait times, flags missed brain bleeds – exclusive

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**Breakthrough Israeli AI Slashes Head-CT Wait Times, Flags Missed Brain Bleeds**

An innovative AI system developed in Israel and installed on CT scanners at Assuta Medical Centers has significantly reduced reporting times for suspected stroke cases. This advanced technology not only accelerates diagnosis but also accurately identifies life-threatening intracranial hemorrhages that might otherwise be missed.

The implementation of this AI-driven solution marks a major advancement in emergency medical care, enabling faster and more reliable detection of brain bleeds. Early identification is crucial for effective treatment, improving patient outcomes and potentially saving lives.

*Brain scans (photo credit: Shutterstock)*

By Dr. Itay Gal
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-869819

Breakthrough Israeli AI slashes head-CT wait times, flags missed brain bleeds – exclusive

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**Breakthrough Israeli AI Slashes Head-CT Wait Times, Flags Missed Brain Bleeds**

An Israeli-developed artificial intelligence system, recently installed on CT scanners at Assuta Medical Centers, has significantly reduced reporting times for patients with suspected stroke. This cutting-edge technology not only accelerates diagnosis but also helps identify life-threatening intracranial hemorrhages that might otherwise be missed.

The system analyzes brain scans quickly and accurately, allowing medical teams to respond faster and improve patient outcomes in critical situations.

*Brain scans (photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK)*

By Dr. Itay Gal
https://www.jpost.com/health-and-wellness/article-869819

Why J&J has been fined $966M in the US

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**Why J&J Has Been Fined $966M in the US**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 08, 2025, 05:15 PM*

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has been ordered by a Los Angeles jury to pay $966 million to the family of a woman who died from mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. This ruling follows the jury’s finding that the company’s talc products were linked to cancer.

### Background of the Case
The lawsuit was filed by the family of Mae Moore, an 88-year-old California resident who passed away in 2021. The family initiated the case against J&J in the same year, alleging that the company’s talc products contributed to her illness.

### Verdict Details
The jury awarded $16 million in compensatory damages and an astounding $950 million in punitive damages against J&J. In response, Erik Haas, J&J’s global vice president of litigation, announced the company’s intention to appeal the decision. He described the verdict as “egregious and unconstitutional” and criticized the plaintiff lawyers for relying on what he called “junk science” that should not have been admitted in court.

### Product Safety and Company Response
Despite the verdict, J&J maintains that its talc-based products are safe, contain no asbestos, and do not cause cancer. The company discontinued sales of talc-based baby powder in the United States in 2020, transitioning to a cornstarch-based alternative. It is important to note that mesothelioma has been medically linked to asbestos exposure.

Trey Branham, attorney for Moore’s family, expressed hope that this ruling will finally hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for what he termed “senseless deaths.”

### Ongoing Litigation
Johnson & Johnson currently faces over 67,000 lawsuits alleging cancer caused by its baby powder and other talc products. While the majority of these claims relate to ovarian cancer, mesothelioma cases form a smaller portion of the litigation.

The company has attempted to resolve the mass litigation by filing for bankruptcy protection, but three such proposals have been rejected by federal courts.

### Settlement and Trial Landscape
Though J&J has settled some mesothelioma claims, it has yet to achieve a nationwide settlement agreement. Consequently, many mesothelioma lawsuits have proceeded to trial in various state courts over recent months.

In the past year alone, J&J has faced several significant verdicts related to mesothelioma, with Monday’s ruling representing one of the largest monetary penalties to date. The company has, however, successfully reduced some awards on appeal, including a $260 million verdict overturned by a state judge in Oregon.

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This recent verdict underscores the ongoing legal challenges Johnson & Johnson faces concerning its talc products and the serious claims raised by affected consumers and their families. The company’s appeal process will be closely watched as these cases continue to unfold.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/j-j-hit-with-966m-verdict-in-talc-cancer-trial/story

PIL filed in Supreme Court seeks inquiry into toxic cough syrup deaths of 14

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A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking an inquiry and systemic reforms in drug safety mechanisms. This comes in the wake of the deaths of 14 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, allegedly due to the consumption of toxic cough syrups.

The PIL, filed by advocate Vishal Tiwari, requests a court-monitored probe into the incidents. It also urges the constitution of a National Judicial Commission or an Expert Committee headed by a retired Supreme Court judge to oversee the matter.

Additionally, the plea seeks the transfer of all pending FIRs and investigations related to the deaths of children across various states to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The plea further urges the court to direct the Central government to constitute a national-level judicial or expert body to identify regulatory failures that allowed the distribution of substandard medicines. It also calls for mandatory toxicological testing of all suspected products before they are allowed for further sale.

*Disclaimer: This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed/agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content (without notice) at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pil-filed-in-supreme-court-seeks-inquiry-into-toxic-cough-syrup-deaths-of-14-children-23597687

Osaka University Professor Sakaguchi Wins Nobel Prize

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As of 3 p.m. on October 6th, Typhoon No. 22 (Halong) was moving northwest over the ocean near the Ogasawara Islands. The typhoon has intensified to form a storm zone with sustained winds exceeding 25 meters per second. Depending on its course, the typhoon may bring strong winds and heavy rain to areas along the Pacific coast from western to eastern Japan. Particularly heavy rainfall is expected across the Tokai and Kanto coastal regions, as well as the Izu Islands. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert for further updates.

In other news, Osaka University’s specially appointed professor, Shimon Sakaguchi, has been awarded this year’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his groundbreaking work in immunology. Sakaguchi is best known for discovering regulatory T cells, a type of immune cell that suppresses excessive immune responses. His findings have had far-reaching implications in medical science.

On the night of October 5th, a collision occurred on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line in Kawasaki City. A local train attempting to arrive at Kajigaya Station struck a stationary out-of-service train, causing several cars of the latter to derail. Investigators from the Japan Transport Safety Board arrived at the scene on the morning of October 6th to begin examining the cause of the accident.

Meanwhile, a Spanish tourist was attacked by a bear while visiting Shirakawa-go, the UNESCO World Heritage village in Gifu Prefecture known for its traditional thatched-roof houses, on October 5th. This incident adds to a growing number of bear encounters reported across Japan in recent weeks.

In political news, Sanae Takaichi was elected as the Liberal Democratic Party’s new president on October 4th. After defeating agriculture minister Shinjiro Koizumi in a runoff, she became the party’s first female leader. On stage, Takaichi declared, “I ask everybody to work like a horse,” signaling her call for dedicated effort from party members.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/147170.php

Cardamom for respiratory health: 5 benefits

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**Cardamom for Respiratory Health: 5 Benefits**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 06, 2025, 05:01 PM*

Cardamom, the aromatic spice renowned for its culinary uses and health benefits, is also a powerful ally for respiratory health. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, cardamom can help improve your breathing in several surprising ways. Here are five key benefits that make cardamom a valuable addition to your wellness routine.

**1. Natural Expectorant Properties**
Cardamom acts as a natural expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the airways. This can be especially helpful during cold or flu seasons when congestion is common. By aiding in the expulsion of mucus, cardamom may reduce coughing and enhance overall respiratory function.

**2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects on Airways**
The spice contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe irritated airways. Since inflammation contributes to respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis, cardamom’s ability to reduce inflammation may relieve symptoms and make breathing easier for those affected.

**3. Antioxidant Support for Lung Health**
Rich in antioxidants, cardamom protects lung cells from oxidative stress—a damaging process that can impair respiratory function over time. By neutralizing free radicals, the antioxidants in cardamom help maintain lung health and promote comfortable breathing.

**4. Enhancing Airflow with Aromatic Compounds**
The aromatic compounds in cardamom help open up nasal passages and improve airflow through the respiratory tract. This is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with nasal congestion or allergies, as it naturally clears blocked passages and facilitates easier breathing.

**5. Supporting Immune Function for Respiratory Health**
Cardamom also boosts the immune system, which is crucial for defending the respiratory system against infections. Including cardamom in your diet can help strengthen immunity, keeping your lungs and airways healthy and reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.

Incorporating cardamom into your daily routine is a simple yet effective way to support your respiratory health naturally. Whether added to teas, meals, or enjoyed as a spice, cardamom offers multiple benefits that can help you breathe better and stay healthier year-round.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/cardamom-for-respiratory-health-5-surprising-facts/story