Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Ozempic Reverses Liver Diseases, New Study Finds

<span>Ozempic</span> has been making headlines ever since its launch. Its popularity snowballed after celebrities credited it with their weight loss. Soon, there were reports of it treating alcoholism, joint pain, and many other illnesses. Now, scientists have claimed that it can also be beneficial for your <span>liver</span>. 

A new study published in The <span>New England Journal of Medicine</span> has demonstrated that semaglutide, a medication traditionally used for type 2 diabetes, shows significant promise in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), previously known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). 

The study enrolled 800 participants across 37 countries between 2021 and 2023, most of whom were obese or had type 2 diabetes. Participants received weekly injections of semaglutide or a placebo over 72 weeks. Results revealed that 62.9% of semaglutide recipients experienced reduced liver inflammation and fat accumulation, compared to 34.3% in the placebo group. Additionally, 36.8% showed improvements in liver fibrosis, versus 22.4% in the placebo group. Participants also experienced improved liver enzyme levels and an average weight loss of 10.5%.

Dr. Arun Sanyal, a leading hepatologist, who was involved in the study, emphasised the importance of these results, noting that semaglutide could provide patients with additional treatment options for fatty liver disease. The research team plans to conduct further studies involving over 1,200 participants to assess the long-term effects of semaglutide on liver health.

The first thing to remember here is that Ozempic is a brand-name medicine that contains semaglutide as its active ingredient. Semglutide is the synthetic version of GLP-1, a natural hormone produced in the intestines that regulates blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. Now, every time you eat, your body produces various hormones, including GLP-1. These are called post-nutrition hormones and help you absorb the energy you just consumed. GLP-1 travels to your pancreas, prompting it to produce insulin. It also travels to the hypothalamus in your brain, which gives you the feeling of being full or satiated. Ozempic imitates this hormone, thereby silencing the food chatter in the brain. Interestingly, for some people, this food chatter is really quiet ( people with low appetite), and for others it is an outburst (people who generally binge eat). So with Ozempic, silencing this self-talk in the brain, people tend to lose their appetite and eventually weight.

However, it is important to note that losing weight includes not just fat but muscle as well. Losing too much muscle can lead to reduced strength and a shorter life span. Notably, records show that most people who start taking them stop at 12 weeks; therefore, it is important for some but not for others. The drug also has many side effects, like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abnormal discomfort. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Liver Diseases

new england journal of medicine

Liver

Ozempic

GLP-1 disease

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Ozempic has been making headlines ever since its launch. Its popularity snowballed after celebrities credited it with their weight loss. Soon, there were reports of it treating alcoholism, joint pain, and many other illnesses. Now, scientists have claimed that it can also be beneficial for your liver. A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine has demonstrated that semaglutide, a medication traditionally used for type 2 diabetes, shows significant promise in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), previously known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study enrolled 800 participants across 37 countries between 2021 and 2023, most of whom were obese or had type 2 diabetes. Participants received weekly injections of semaglutide or a placebo over 72 weeks. Results revealed that 62.9% of semaglutide recipients experienced reduced liver inflammation and fat accumulation, compared to 34.3% in the placebo group. Additionally, 36.8% showed improvements in liver fibrosis, versus 22.4% in the placebo group. Participants also experienced improved liver enzyme levels and an average weight loss of 10.5%.Dr. Arun Sanyal, a leading hepatologist, who was involved in the study, emphasised the importance of these results, noting that semaglutide could provide patients with additional treatment options for fatty liver disease. The research team plans to conduct further studies involving over 1,200 participants to assess the long-term effects of semaglutide on liver health.How Does Ozempic Function?The first thing to remember here is that Ozempic is a brand-name medicine that contains semaglutide as its active ingredient. Semglutide is the synthetic version of GLP-1, a natural hormone produced in the intestines that regulates blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. Now, every time you eat, your body produces various hormones, including GLP-1. These are called post-nutrition hormones and help you absorb the energy you just consumed. GLP-1 travels to your pancreas, prompting it to produce insulin. It also travels to the hypothalamus in your brain, which gives you the feeling of being full or satiated. Ozempic imitates this hormone, thereby silencing the food chatter in the brain. Interestingly, for some people, this food chatter is really quiet ( people with low appetite), and for others it is an outburst (people who generally binge eat). So with Ozempic, silencing this self-talk in the brain, people tend to lose their appetite and eventually weight.However, it is important to note that losing weight includes not just fat but muscle as well. Losing too much muscle can lead to reduced strength and a shorter life span. Notably, records show that most people who start taking them stop at 12 weeks; therefore, it is important for some but not for others. The drug also has many side effects, like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abnormal discomfort.  

ozempic reverses liver diseases, new study finds

Tanya Dutt

New Possible Measles Exposure Hits Austin Weeks After CDC Buried Forecast Stressing Need For Vaccinations

US Sees Most Pediatric Flu Deaths Since Swine Flu Pandemic

us sees most pediatric flu deaths since swine flu pandemic

Recent US Salmonella Outbreak Is Linked With Backyard Poultry: CDC

recent us salmonella outbreak is linked with backyard poultry: cdc

Nutrition

Why Does RFK Want Whole Milk To Return To Schools?

why does rfk want whole milk to return to schools?

Health & Wellness

This Killer Fungus In The UK Is Spreading Panic: Expert Shares Early Signs, Who Is At Risk And How To Stay Safe

this killer fungus in the uk is spreading panic: expert shares early signs, who is at risk and how to stay safe

Measles, a virus that was once officially eradicated in the United States in 2000, is making a shocking comeback — this time with more sinister layers than ever before. In the latest news, Austin, Texas, health officials announced that an individual with measles traveled to the city between April 25–27. The patron, who lives in El Paso, ate at Terry Black's Barbecue on Barton Springs Road on April 26 between 8–11 p.m. The news has prompted immediate warnings from Austin Public Health, advising anyone who was at the restaurant during that time to watch for symptoms up to May 17.

This exposure is in the midst of a spreading national outbreak that is quickly becoming the worst measles epidemic in the United States in decades. And what's worse is that all of this is happening in the wake of a CDC projection — one that was allegedly buried rather than publicly released — that warned of just this type of risk in low-vaccination areas.

The present outbreak, which started in a small religious group in West Texas earlier this year, has already reached four states in the Southwest. It has so far caused more than 1,000 reported cases, with public health officials estimating the actual numbers could be much higher because of underreporting. Unfortunately, the virus has already killed two school-age children and an adult.

Measles is one of the most contagious illnesses that science has known. A single infected person can spread the virus to as many as 90% of unvaccinated contacts. And in communities where vaccination rates are weak, the virus has rich soil in which to germinate. That makes the CDC's refusal to release its internal risk assessment especially troubling. In internal memos leaked to ProPublica, the agency had drafted a statement highlighting the urgent necessity for vaccination but refused to release it, arguing that it "doesn't say anything that the public doesn't already know."

Traditionally, the CDC has taken a clear and confident position on immunizations. Its messaging was explicit, forward-leaning, and informed by decades of evidence-based public health science. But now, the agency's most recent pronouncement is this: "The decision to vaccinate is a personal one." It's language that mirrors recent opinion piece from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new US Health and Human Services Department leader and longtime critic of vaccines.

Kennedy's leadership represents a dramatic turn. Once a marginal player in public health circles, his appointment has been accompanied by a weakening of federal vaccine promotion. Rather than emphasizing the well-documented effectiveness of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine — 97% effective — Kennedy has brought attention to exploring other measles treatments, many of which are untested or not yet supported by robust clinical evidence.

<h2>Declining Public Confidence in Child Vaccines Sounding Alarm</h2>

In 2000, when the United States formally announced that measles was eliminated, there was broad public backing for routine childhood vaccinations. Most Americans concurred that vaccinating children against infectious diseases such as measles was not only crucial—it was vital to public health.

Today, that virtual unanimity has frayed. Confidence in vaccines during childhood has taken a significant dent, spurred by an increasingly tidal wave of disinformation. Leading this turn is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., currently in charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more than two decades, Kennedy has advanced discredited arguments connecting childhood vaccines to autism—a story systematically debunked by science.

What was once a fringe perspective has now gained traction within federal health leadership. Kennedy's ascension to power not only indicates a wider skepticism among Americans but also represents a troubling shift in the national strategy for vaccination policy and public health messaging.

Jennifer Nuzzo, Director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University, expressed concern over the CDC’s decision to withhold data. “We’ve already had more measles cases in 2025 than in all of 2024,” she said. “It’s not a coin toss — the data clearly shows we’re in a worsening crisis.” Nuzzo emphasized the need for more transparency, not less, especially as the outbreak spreads to at least 19 states.

<h2>Symptoms to Watch for Following Austin Outbreak</h2>

The Austin case highlights the actual-world effect of federal indecision. Anyone who attended Terry Black's Barbecue during the period indicated is being encouraged to look out for symptoms, which are:

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Cough</li><li>Runny nose</li><li>Red, watery eyes</li><li>A rash that typically starts on the face and extends</li><li>White spots within the mouth</li></ul>

Unvaccinated, immunocompromised, and pregnant individuals are particularly susceptible and may need preventitive treatment. Public health practitioners have again emphasized staying home and calling a healthcare provider at once if symptoms develop.

Adding to the issue is the recent move by federal officials to eliminate $11 billion in pandemic-related grants, leaving state and local health departments without the funding necessary to respond effectively to outbreaks. In Texas alone, officials have 702 confirmed measles cases as of May 6, up 19 from the previous week — and the cases keep rising.

At the same time, the CDC is disrupted internally as the agency readies to cut 2,400 jobs, further weakening its capacity to launch effective public health responses. With Kennedy's attention drawn away from vaccinations and towards experimental alternatives, public health infrastructure is stretched thinner at a critical juncture.

The most frustrating reality of this crisis is that it is entirely preventable. The measles vaccine has long been one of the most effective tools in modern medicine, and widespread immunization campaigns had nearly eradicated the disease just two decades ago. Yet, amid a landscape shaped by misinformation, underfunding, and wavering leadership, the U.S. is now facing an avoidable public health emergency.

As scientists caution, now is not the moment for passive messaging and loose reassurances. With the virus spreading still and lives hanging in the balance, public health authorities need to step back into the science, rebuild trust, and reestablish the life-saving potential of vaccines beginning with measles.

measles outbreak

measles outbreak 2025

austin measles exposure

cdc measles warning

mmr vaccine importance

robert f kennedy jr health policies

vaccine hesitancy in usa

measles symptoms and treatment

Measles, a virus that was once officially eradicated in the United States in 2000, is making a shocking comeback — this time with more sinister layers than ever before. In the latest news, Austin, Texas, health officials announced that an individual with measles traveled to the city between April 25–27. The patron, who lives in El Paso, ate at Terry Black's Barbecue on Barton Springs Road on April 26 between 8–11 p.m. The news has prompted immediate warnings from Austin Public Health, advising anyone who was at the restaurant during that time to watch for symptoms up to May 17.This exposure is in the midst of a spreading national outbreak that is quickly becoming the worst measles epidemic in the United States in decades. And what's worse is that all of this is happening in the wake of a CDC projection — one that was allegedly buried rather than publicly released — that warned of just this type of risk in low-vaccination areas.The present outbreak, which started in a small religious group in West Texas earlier this year, has already reached four states in the Southwest. It has so far caused more than 1,000 reported cases, with public health officials estimating the actual numbers could be much higher because of underreporting. Unfortunately, the virus has already killed two school-age children and an adult.Measles is one of the most contagious illnesses that science has known. A single infected person can spread the virus to as many as 90% of unvaccinated contacts. And in communities where vaccination rates are weak, the virus has rich soil in which to germinate. That makes the CDC's refusal to release its internal risk assessment especially troubling. In internal memos leaked to ProPublica, the agency had drafted a statement highlighting the urgent necessity for vaccination but refused to release it, arguing that it "doesn't say anything that the public doesn't already know."Traditionally, the CDC has taken a clear and confident position on immunizations. Its messaging was explicit, forward-leaning, and informed by decades of evidence-based public health science. But now, the agency's most recent pronouncement is this: "The decision to vaccinate is a personal one." It's language that mirrors recent opinion piece from Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new US Health and Human Services Department leader and longtime critic of vaccines.Kennedy's leadership represents a dramatic turn. Once a marginal player in public health circles, his appointment has been accompanied by a weakening of federal vaccine promotion. Rather than emphasizing the well-documented effectiveness of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine — 97% effective — Kennedy has brought attention to exploring other measles treatments, many of which are untested or not yet supported by robust clinical evidence.Declining Public Confidence in Child Vaccines Sounding AlarmIn 2000, when the United States formally announced that measles was eliminated, there was broad public backing for routine childhood vaccinations. Most Americans concurred that vaccinating children against infectious diseases such as measles was not only crucial—it was vital to public health.Today, that virtual unanimity has frayed. Confidence in vaccines during childhood has taken a significant dent, spurred by an increasingly tidal wave of disinformation. Leading this turn is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., currently in charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more than two decades, Kennedy has advanced discredited arguments connecting childhood vaccines to autism—a story systematically debunked by science.What was once a fringe perspective has now gained traction within federal health leadership. Kennedy's ascension to power not only indicates a wider skepticism among Americans but also represents a troubling shift in the national strategy for vaccination policy and public health messaging.Jennifer Nuzzo, Director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University, expressed concern over the CDC’s decision to withhold data. “We’ve already had more measles cases in 2025 than in all of 2024,” she said. “It’s not a coin toss — the data clearly shows we’re in a worsening crisis.” Nuzzo emphasized the need for more transparency, not less, especially as the outbreak spreads to at least 19 states.Symptoms to Watch for Following Austin OutbreakThe Austin case highlights the actual-world effect of federal indecision. Anyone who attended Terry Black's Barbecue during the period indicated is being encouraged to look out for symptoms, which are:FeverCoughRunny noseRed, watery eyesA rash that typically starts on the face and extendsWhite spots within the mouthUnvaccinated, immunocompromised, and pregnant individuals are particularly susceptible and may need preventitive treatment. Public health practitioners have again emphasized staying home and calling a healthcare provider at once if symptoms develop.Adding to the issue is the recent move by federal officials to eliminate $11 billion in pandemic-related grants, leaving state and local health departments without the funding necessary to respond effectively to outbreaks. In Texas alone, officials have 702 confirmed measles cases as of May 6, up 19 from the previous week — and the cases keep rising.At the same time, the CDC is disrupted internally as the agency readies to cut 2,400 jobs, further weakening its capacity to launch effective public health responses. With Kennedy's attention drawn away from vaccinations and towards experimental alternatives, public health infrastructure is stretched thinner at a critical juncture.The most frustrating reality of this crisis is that it is entirely preventable. The measles vaccine has long been one of the most effective tools in modern medicine, and widespread immunization campaigns had nearly eradicated the disease just two decades ago. Yet, amid a landscape shaped by misinformation, underfunding, and wavering leadership, the U.S. is now facing an avoidable public health emergency.As scientists caution, now is not the moment for passive messaging and loose reassurances. With the virus spreading still and lives hanging in the balance, public health authorities need to step back into the science, rebuild trust, and reestablish the life-saving potential of vaccines beginning with measles.

new possible measles exposure hits austin weeks after cdc buried forecast stressing need for vaccinations

ALS Awareness Month: What Is The Lou Gehrig’s Disease?

als awareness month: what is the lou gehrig’s disease?

Women With This Reproductive Condition Can Hit Menopause In Their 30s

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This Common Household Spice May Hinder How Medicine Reacts In Your Body

this common household spice may hinder how medicine reacts in your body

<span>Chemotherapy</span> is a widely used <span>cancer</span> treatment involving powerful medications that target and destroy cancer cells. However, these drugs can also affect healthy cells, leading to various side effects. According to the American Cancer Society, common side effects of chemotherapy include fatigue, hair loss, infection, easy bruising or bleeding, anaemia, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties often referred to as 'chemo brain.'

The relationship between <span>chemotherapy and dementia</span> remains a subject of debate among researchers. Conflicting studies present differing perspectives on the potential link. For instance, a 2017 study examined the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in female breast cancer survivors. The researchers noted that those who underwent chemotherapy might be at an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, particularly if they experienced changes in specific brain structures. However, they also observed that women who did not receive chemotherapy also had a higher risk, suggesting that structural changes in the brain might contribute to Alzheimer’s rather than the cancer treatment itself.

Conversely, a 2021 study involving 135,834 individuals aged 65 and older with colorectal cancer indicated that chemotherapy might actually reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of <span>dementia</span>. Further complicating the narrative, a 2022 longitudinal study found no definitive evidence linking chemotherapy to an increased risk of dementia. These varying outcomes underscore the need for more comprehensive research to better understand the connection between chemotherapy and cognitive decline.

While there is no cure for dementia, several treatment strategies can help manage its symptoms. Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists are commonly prescribed to slow cognitive decline. Additionally, drugs to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and depression can also be beneficial. Non-pharmaceutical approaches, such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and staying socially active, may also help mitigate symptoms and improve overall brain health.

<h2>Cheotherapy Also Causes Other Neurological Conditions</h2>

Beyond the potential link to dementia, chemotherapy can cause other neurological effects. 'Chemo brain,' characterised by memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and trouble multitasking, is one of the most reported cognitive side effects. While these symptoms are typically temporary, they can persist in some individuals. Furthermore, chemotherapy can lead to neurotoxicity, which may result in limb weakness, numbness, headaches, and cognitive or behavioural issues.

Given the conflicting evidence on chemotherapy’s long-term effects on the brain, further studies are essential to establish a clearer understanding of the risks. In the meantime, patients undergoing chemotherapy should discuss any cognitive concerns with their healthcare providers and explore ways to manage potential side effects effectively.

Dementia

chemotherapy

alzheimers

cANCER

cHEMOTHERAPY AND DEMENTIA

mental Health

Chemotherapy is a widely used cancer treatment involving powerful medications that target and destroy cancer cells. However, these drugs can also affect healthy cells, leading to various side effects. According to the American Cancer Society, common side effects of chemotherapy include fatigue, hair loss, infection, easy bruising or bleeding, anaemia, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties often referred to as 'chemo brain.'The relationship between chemotherapy and dementia remains a subject of debate among researchers. Conflicting studies present differing perspectives on the potential link. For instance, a 2017 study examined the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in female breast cancer survivors. The researchers noted that those who underwent chemotherapy might be at an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, particularly if they experienced changes in specific brain structures. However, they also observed that women who did not receive chemotherapy also had a higher risk, suggesting that structural changes in the brain might contribute to Alzheimer’s rather than the cancer treatment itself.Conversely, a 2021 study involving 135,834 individuals aged 65 and older with colorectal cancer indicated that chemotherapy might actually reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Further complicating the narrative, a 2022 longitudinal study found no definitive evidence linking chemotherapy to an increased risk of dementia. These varying outcomes underscore the need for more comprehensive research to better understand the connection between chemotherapy and cognitive decline.While there is no cure for dementia, several treatment strategies can help manage its symptoms. Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists are commonly prescribed to slow cognitive decline. Additionally, drugs to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and depression can also be beneficial. Non-pharmaceutical approaches, such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and staying socially active, may also help mitigate symptoms and improve overall brain health.Cheotherapy Also Causes Other Neurological ConditionsBeyond the potential link to dementia, chemotherapy can cause other neurological effects. 'Chemo brain,' characterised by memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and trouble multitasking, is one of the most reported cognitive side effects. While these symptoms are typically temporary, they can persist in some individuals. Furthermore, chemotherapy can lead to neurotoxicity, which may result in limb weakness, numbness, headaches, and cognitive or behavioural issues.Given the conflicting evidence on chemotherapy’s long-term effects on the brain, further studies are essential to establish a clearer understanding of the risks. In the meantime, patients undergoing chemotherapy should discuss any cognitive concerns with their healthcare providers and explore ways to manage potential side effects effectively.

does chemotherapy cause dementia?

Ishita Roy

Mothers, Marijuana And It's Impact On Fetus, This Is What Study Says

mother, marijuana and its impact on fetus

Can You Get Cancer By Eating Chicken?

can you get cancer by eating chicken?

Maternal Mortality On Rise In US, Reports CDC

maternal mortality on rise in us, reports cdc

10 Egg Health Myths We Thought Were True—But Aren't

10 egg health myths we thought were true—but aren't

Women Face More Health Issues, But Men Are More Likely To Die Due To These Issues

women face more health issues, but men are more likely to die due to these issues

Marijuana have long been controversial, as it has been used for its recreational and sometimes medicinal purposes, however, it has its own health impact, including addiction. According to a new meta-analysis, it was found that using marijuana during pregnancy also increases risk of several health complications for both the baby and the mother. 

One of the most alarming discoveries from the analysis is the increased risk of perinatal mortality, or death occurring during or shortly after pregnancy. As per Dr Jamie Lo, an obstetrician, who is also the lead author of the study, which is published in JAMA Pediatrics, marijuana use also contributes to reduced fetal lung development, decreased oxygen flow through the placenta, and ultimately, poor growth outcomes for the baby. 

The study reviewed 51 research papers which had covered over 21 million pregnancies. It also found that marijuana use was associated with a 52% higher risk of preterm birth and a 75% higher risk of low birth weight, which is less than 5.5 pounds. The study also found as it looked among few studies that examined infant mortality, that marijuana use was linked to a 29% higher risk of death. 

The placenta plays a critical role in delivering oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. When marijuana restricts blood flow to this organ, both mother and child are at risk. Reduced oxygen availability may explain the lower lung volume and poor fetal development reported in cannabis-exposed pregnancies.

Despite these risks, cannabis use during pregnancy has been rising. A 2019 analysis found usage more than doubled between 2002 and 2017, especially in the first trimester, and most cases were recreational.

“There is a false sense of safety because marijuana is ‘natural,’” Dr. Lo said. But she warns that substances like opium, heroin, and tobacco are also plant-based and still harmful.

Other drugs known to harm fetal health—alcohol, opioids, and tobacco—cause birth defects, developmental delays, and even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Cannabis may not be as well studied due to ethical concerns around experimenting with pregnant women, but the observed outcomes are worrying.

Earlier studies were often limited by small sample sizes or combined cannabis with other substances, making it hard to isolate its effects. The new review focused only on marijuana use, and the quality of evidence is now rated as low to moderate certainty, up from very low just a year ago.

With increasing legalization and normalization of marijuana, many expectant parents receive conflicting information. Dr. Lo believes there’s an urgent need for clearer public health guidance.

“Healthcare providers often struggle to give advice because the evidence has been unclear,” she said. “We’re working to change that.”

Dr. Lo’s final advice is clear: “Ideally, it’s best not to be exposed to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, during pregnancy—regardless of the form.”

marijuana impact on fetus

health news

parenting

pregnancy health

women's health

reproductive health

Marijuana have long been controversial, as it has been used for its recreational and sometimes medicinal purposes, however, it has its own health impact, including addiction. According to a new meta-analysis, it was found that using marijuana during pregnancy also increases risk of several health complications for both the baby and the mother. Higher Risk of Premature DeathOne of the most alarming discoveries from the analysis is the increased risk of perinatal mortality, or death occurring during or shortly after pregnancy. As per Dr Jamie Lo, an obstetrician, who is also the lead author of the study, which is published in JAMA Pediatrics, marijuana use also contributes to reduced fetal lung development, decreased oxygen flow through the placenta, and ultimately, poor growth outcomes for the baby. How Was The Study Conducted?The study reviewed 51 research papers which had covered over 21 million pregnancies. It also found that marijuana use was associated with a 52% higher risk of preterm birth and a 75% higher risk of low birth weight, which is less than 5.5 pounds. The study also found as it looked among few studies that examined infant mortality, that marijuana use was linked to a 29% higher risk of death. Placenta MattersThe placenta plays a critical role in delivering oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. When marijuana restricts blood flow to this organ, both mother and child are at risk. Reduced oxygen availability may explain the lower lung volume and poor fetal development reported in cannabis-exposed pregnancies.The Misperception Despite these risks, cannabis use during pregnancy has been rising. A 2019 analysis found usage more than doubled between 2002 and 2017, especially in the first trimester, and most cases were recreational.“There is a false sense of safety because marijuana is ‘natural,’” Dr. Lo said. But she warns that substances like opium, heroin, and tobacco are also plant-based and still harmful.Other drugs known to harm fetal health—alcohol, opioids, and tobacco—cause birth defects, developmental delays, and even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Cannabis may not be as well studied due to ethical concerns around experimenting with pregnant women, but the observed outcomes are worrying.Earlier studies were often limited by small sample sizes or combined cannabis with other substances, making it hard to isolate its effects. The new review focused only on marijuana use, and the quality of evidence is now rated as low to moderate certainty, up from very low just a year ago.With increasing legalization and normalization of marijuana, many expectant parents receive conflicting information. Dr. Lo believes there’s an urgent need for clearer public health guidance.“Healthcare providers often struggle to give advice because the evidence has been unclear,” she said. “We’re working to change that.”Dr. Lo’s final advice is clear: “Ideally, it’s best not to be exposed to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, during pregnancy—regardless of the form.”

mothers, marijuana and it's impact on fetus, this is what study says

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Ozempic Reverses Liver Diseases, New Study Finds

Quick Stories

Does Chemotherapy Cause Dementia?

New Possible Measles Exposure Hits Austin Weeks After CDC Buried Forecast Stressing Need For Vaccinations

Mothers, Marijuana And It's Impact On Fetus, This Is What Study Says

Health Conditions A-Z

Does Chemotherapy Cause Dementia?

Color, Clay And Catharsis: Healing Your Mental Health With This Childlike Ritual Backed By Psychologists

Sukhasana: Easy Seated Yoga Asana To Help Align Your Spine