President-elect Donald Trump coined 'MAGA', the Make America Great Again movement. It is a political movement which was used heavily during the presidential campaigns in 2016 and 2024. The latest development is its conservative sub-brand 'MAHA', Make America Healthy Again, with many MAHA influencers jumping right into the campaign, re-imagining the food policies and warning Americans on what they should or should not consume.

The forefront of MAHA is Robert F Kenny Jr. (RFK Jr.), who was recently nominated by Trump as the US Health Secretary, the position that awaits Senate approval. This battle incorporates RFK Jr.'s struggle against corporate agriculture, pharmaceutical companies and medical establishments.

Background

The externalised cost of food-related, noncommunicable diseases for Americans is over $1.3 trillion per year. This is greater than the value of all groceries sold annually. The food industry is also reaping high profits dealing with ultra-processed foods, many of which are banned in many other countries.

Robyn O'Brien, Chief Operating Officer at Montcalm says that 1 in 2 American men are expected to get cancer in their lifetimes, while 1 in 3 American women can expect the same. 1 in 3 American children has four As, which stands for allergies, autism, ADHD, and asthma, along with cancer as the leading cause of death in American children.

In this backdrop, it is JFK Jr.'s MAHA who wants to "dismantle the corporate stranglehold on [read the] our government agencies that has led to widespread chronic disease, environmental degradation, and rampant public distrust...MAHA seeks to drive a transformative agenda. This includes prioritizing regenerative agriculture, preserving natural habitats, and eliminating toxins from our food, water, and air… to combat the chronic disease epidemic, which includes addressing the root causes such as poor diet, environmental toxins, and inadequate healthcare... and dismantling the corporate takeover of government agencies that are supposed to protect public health and the environment.”

How did MAHA begin?

Calley Means and Dr Casey Means, a brother-sister duo built a wellness empire by questioning some of the traditional medical expertise and vaccine mandates. Their ideas also spoke to Trump's MAHA movement.

Calley who is a former food-industry lobbyist and Casey, a Stanford-educated surgeon, have pushed for a revamp of the American food and health system. This is driven by a deep distrust of the pharmaceutical and food industries and medical theories. Drawing on this thought, JFK Jr. also mentioned both siblings as people he would recommend to Trump for "prominent roles" in his administration.

The siblings have criticised the approach that the US medical systems are taking. They say, that instead of going for a holistic look at the body's needs through nutrition, exercise and health, the current medical system is relying on medications.

Calley also called the Covid-19 vaccine mandates a "war crime", and that parents should rely on the "divine gifts of intuition and heart intelligence" rather than "blindly trusting the science".

ALSO READ: Who is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Controversial Nominee for U.S. Health Secretary?

MAHA Influencers

There are MAHA influencers other than the podcaster siblings and JFK Jr. himself. Enters Alex Clark. "Cool girl, loves health and wellness, and happens to be conservative", the 31-year-old introduces herself.

She is able to tap into those who are not politically aligned, but are worried about their kids' health. In a podcast called Realfoodology, she and Courtney Swan, a nutritionist look for chickpeas, which might "slowly poison you", as Clark believes.

These chickpeas contain glyphosate, which as per the Environmental Protection Agency has "no risks of concern to human health". The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) noted that one international organisation said that it may be a carcinogen, but no other organisation has found or said anything. But for Clark, it does not matter because she has no faith in the "three-letter-agencies".

She in her podcast Culture Apothecary promoted MAHA, discussing various issues on health and wellness, with the top discussion on motherhood as a virtuous role, daycare as dangerous and feminism as insidious.

MAHA is a big no on hormonal birth control and she too is a promoter of the idea that the women's liberation movement has done more harm than good. Aligning with Republican's anti-abortion views, this MAHA influencer is a firm believer that abortion is "never medically necessary to save the life of the mother," even if the experts disagree.

What Else MAHA Wants?

MAHA is against regular mammogram testing because it exposes women to radiation and disrupts their body's function. As per the National Cancer Institute, the benefits of undergoing regular screenings exceed the risk of skipping them.

Another thing many MAHA believers hold deeply close to is that "my body, my choice" is just an illusion created by the state. In reality, the body is controlled by medicines, which leads to autism in children. The popular belief is that the food Americans eat, controlled by the corporation is what makes them sick, and they seek medical help, which controls their brain. It is a vicious cycle and MAHA wants to break free.

MAHA does not want these government agencies to co-parent their kids. They are clear that they want a "divorce", as Clark says.

With JFK Jr. being nominated as the US Health Secretary, who could control the health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and many more, MAHA could be a dream come true in "divorcing" the parents with the government.

Migraines have been the bane of millions—debilitating, unpredictable, and extremely difficult to treat but a new challenger has entered the fray: a group of medications that have become synonymous with weight loss. Recent studies indicate that GLP-1 receptor agonists medications such as liraglutide, widely prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity could radically cut migraine frequency, giving fresh hope to sufferers.

New research, presented at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Congress 2025, may herald a new era in neurological care by re-purposing a currently available medication for a new, impactful application.

GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy replicate the body's natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which is crucial in maintaining blood sugar levels, hunger, and digestion. These medications are widely used to treat diabetes and help achieve long-term weight loss. However, more and more, their influences on the nervous system and intracranial pressure are capturing neurologists' attention.

In their research, scientists investigated whether GLP-1 medications could alleviate migraines not by causing weight loss, but through another mechanism by lowering pressure in the cerebrospinal fluid, a lesser-known migraine attack factor.

The pilot study, conducted by Dr. Simone Braca and his team at the Headache Centre, University of Naples, included 26 adults with chronic or frequent migraines who were obese. The subjects took daily doses of 1.8 mg liraglutide, the standard dose employed to treat type 2 diabetes, for 12 weeks.

The study findings were remarkable, volunteers saw their average monthly headache days plummet dramatically from 20 to just 9. Almost half of the participants reported at least a 50% decrease in frequency of migraines, which makes the drug a potential breakthrough medication. Besides fewer migraines, volunteers also reported improved daily functioning, work productivity, and social activity. Although mild side effects including nausea and constipation were noted, no participants dropped out of the treatment, highlighting the drug's overall tolerability.

Even more persuasively, researchers pointed out that weight loss was modest and statistically not significant meaning that the relief from migraine could not be attributed to losing weight but may be associated with deeper neurological mechanisms.

May Pressure Be the Secret Trigger?

One of the central hypotheses to which the researchers give consideration relates to intracranial pressure. Migraine patients tend to exhibit elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure, which can irritate brain structures and intensify headaches. Liraglutide, as with other GLP-1 agonists, seems to slow CSF secretion, thus possibly relieving pressure within the skull.

Though the precise mechanism remains under investigation, this hypothesis is upheld by previous research indicating that GLP-1 medications were beneficial in treating idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), an uncommon disorder characterized by increased pressure in the brain.

In order to separate migraines from IIH in this research, subjects were screened to rule out individuals with papilledema (swelling of the optic disc) and sixth nerve palsy, both signs of increased intracranial pressure.

What This Means for People Who Experience Migraine?

The idea of drug repurposing—identifying new applications for existing drugs—is catching on in medicine. Because liraglutide is already approved and heavily prescribed to treat diabetes and obesity, its migraine-reducing potential may accelerate its transition for this new purpose.

"The improvement persisted throughout the entire three-month observation time, despite modest weight loss," said lead study author Dr. Braca. "The majority of patients improved within the first two weeks."

Since migraines afflict more than 6 million individuals in the UK alone, and millions worldwide, an easily tolerated, easily accessible drug which could cut their number by almost half is a major advancement.

Migraine is more than just a headache—it's a neurological disorder with severe consequences for everyday life. Attacks can persist for 72 hours, involving pounding pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to light, sound, and odour. Chronic migraine, being 15 or more headache days in a month, impacts work productivity, mental health, and quality of life.

For some, traditional treatments like triptans, anti-seizure drugs, and injections of Botox don't work or are accompanied by significant side effects. A new group of therapy that treats migraines by a different process might extend the field of available options to millions of patients.

How It Affects To Long-Term Applications?

Although the pilot study presents encouraging findings, scientists advise that larger randomized controlled trials should be conducted. Future studies will include direct measurement of intracranial pressure and investigate whether other GLP-1 medications, possibly with reduced gastrointestinal side effects, could yield similar findings.

We're just scratching the surface of what these drugs can do," Dr. Roberto De Simone, a team member senior to many, said. "We're optimistic that this might unlock a new avenue in treating not only migraines, but even other neurologically-related conditions.

Already, GLP-1 drugs are in the pipelines as potential treatments for stroke risk reduction, Alzheimer's disease, and even addiction—implying their therapeutic scope may be much wider than initially believed.

For decades, migraine patients have tried in vain to find relief. With this new study, a familiar medication could soon provide an unsuspecting answer. If subsequent studies validate the research, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide could revolutionize migraine treatment—giving patients not only fewer headache days, but improved lives.

A popular eye care brands has voluntarily recalled some lots of its multifocal contact lenses in Canada. The recall, which was posted on June 12, came after a defect was found in the lenses in the form of a "high density of microbubbles"—small air pockets that might cause vision disturbances, particularly in low-light conditions.

Although the company and Health Canada insist that the problem does not present any direct medical injury, experts are urging consumers to take the warning seriously. The recall has reopened vital discussions regarding contact lens safety, the way small defects affect vision, and what action users should take when a product flaw compromises their eye health.

As per Johnson & Johnson's formal announcement, the issue is in a manufacturing defect for a small quantity of certain lots of their Oasys Max 1-Day Multifocal contact lenses. These lenses have been said to have "microbubbles"—small voids that are placed within the lens material. While harmless to the surface of the eye, they may disrupt the clarity of vision and cause observable disturbances in focus, especially when the ambient lighting is low.

Health Canada has classified the incident as a Type II recall, meaning that the problem can cause temporary or reversible adverse health consequences, even though the possibility of serious outcomes is deemed remote.

The company has not been specific regarding how many units have been sold with the issue, or the precise retailers that have carried the affected product, adding a degree of uncertainty for consumers who are already using this product line.

While "microbubbles" may not sound dangerous, they can behave as miniature lenses or blockages within the actual contact lens, bending or dispersing light irregularly. This distortion can cause blurry vision, halos around lights, or visual interference that is especially annoying at night or in low-light settings like restaurants or driving.

This kind of interference doesn't hurt the eye but will interfere with daily activities where clear vision is a necessity. In contact lens wearers—particularly multifocal wearers who depend on the accuracy of optics—this becomes a real quality-of-life problem.

Johnson & Johnson recommends that any customers with problems stop wearing the lenses right away and contact the company for assistance. Customers are also encouraged to consult with their eye care practitioners if they believe that they have lenses from the affected batch. Although there is no danger of permanent eye injury due to this specific flaw, neglecting changes in vision can cause undue delays in detecting other unrelated serious eye problems.

Patients are also instructed not to get rid of the compromised lenses prior to submitting them to be inspected by a healthcare professional. These lenses might need to be used to verify the existence of microbubbles and for reporting.

What Causes Contact Lens-related Eye Problems?

While this recall is not the result of infection or contamination, it emphasizes the need for good contact lens hygiene and caution. Contact lenses, while convenient and comfortable, are not risk-free—particularly if worn for long periods or improperly handled.

Contact lens wear is linked to a number of serious eye conditions including:

• Microbial keratitis, a serious infection brought on by bacteria, fungi, or amoebae
• Corneal ulcers, or open sores on the surface of the eye
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Corneal abrasions from improper fit or debris trapped beneath the lens

These conditions can progress rapidly and, in some instances, lead to permanent loss of vision or the necessity for corneal transplantation.

Symptoms of Eye Infection or Irritation

If you are a contact lens wearer—whether or not you have one of the recalled lenses—be aware of these symptoms:

• Prolonged eye irritation or burning
• Abundant tearing or unusual discharge
• Increased light sensitivity
• Swelling, redness, or gritty feeling
• Blurred or clouded vision
• Eye and around-eye pain

All of these symptoms require urgent medical assessment. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications in the long run.

Easy Ways To Use Contact Lens Safely

To reduce risks from contact lens use, use these CDC- and Health Canada-approved safety practices:

• Always dry and wash your hands before touching lenses.
• Never reuse or "top off" solution in your lens case.
• Avoid contact with water (tap, bottled, or pool water), which may contain harmful microorganisms like Acanthamoeba.
• Replace lens storage cases every 3 months.
• Do not sleep in your lenses unless prescribed by your eye care provider.
• Remove lenses before swimming or using hot tubs.

These basic hygiene and care practices can drastically reduce the likelihood of infections or complications.

In the midst of the current Australian winter, New South Wales (NSW) health officials have raised alarm about a recent spike in cases of Legionnaires' disease, a serious, occasionally deadly lung infection. The warning, released this week by NSW Health, follows an increase in cases associated with Sydney's central business district (CBD) and neighboring suburbs. With a fatality already confirmed and several others in hospital, experts are now warning residents and recent travellers to the region to be in heightened sensitivity towards early symptoms.

While authorities rush to contain the outbreak and determine its environmental origin, the outbreak shines a light on a larger global issue: the underestimated risks of Legionella bacteria in city infrastructure, especially in colder months.

The current outbreak has focused in Potts Point and surrounding suburbs of Sydney's CBD. NSW Health reported that 12 people who spent time in the area in March and April have contracted the illness. One patient tragically died from the infection in hospital last week.

Public health authorities have performed rigorous environmental sampling, scanning more than 165 cooling towers in the outbreak areas. At least one tower was found to have Legionella bacteria, which is currently being decontaminated. Additional sampling is in progress to determine if this was the cause of the outbreak.

Considering the 10-day incubation period, additional cases could appear in the weeks ahead. The authorities are asking that anyone who was present in the area within the infected time period check for flu-like symptoms and see a doctor immediately if they occur.

What is Legionnaires' Disease?

Legionnaires' disease is pneumonia that is caused by the bacterium Legionella, specifically the Legionella pneumophila bacterium. It infects the lungs and can result in fatal respiratory conditions. While the disease itself is fairly uncommon, it is notoriously virulent and necessitates immediate medical treatment.

Unlike most infectious illnesses, Legionnaires' disease is not person-to-person. It is acquired by breathing in contaminated water droplets floating in the air. These droplets tend to come from cooling towers, air-conditioning systems, showers, spas, fountains, or even potting soil. The bacteria multiply best in hot, standing water, and outbreaks are often linked to poorly serviced commercial or public water systems.

Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease to Watch Out For

Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease are usually similar to a bad flu or COVID-19 and may slow down diagnosis. The common symptoms are:

• High fever and chills
• Recurring coughing
• Breathlessness
• Muscle pains
• Headache
• Weakenedness
• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhoea and nausea

In the more serious situations, the infection escalates into pneumonia, which can be hospitalized. Diagnosis is normally by way of urine antigen tests, sputum cultures, and chest X-rays. Treatment is normally a course of antibiotics, frequently intravenously given in a clinical environment.

It's important to mention that some groups are at higher risk for developing complications, such as smokers, elderly people, patients with chronic lung disease, and those with compromised immune systems.

How Legionnaires' Disease Spreads?

Legionnaires' disease is not transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or intimate contact. Rather, it involves breathing in aerosolized water that contains the Legionella bacteria.

In cities, the typical offenders are water-cooled air conditioners with tainted cooling towers. Other possible sources are:

• Hot water heaters and tanks
• Decorative fountains
• Public whirlpools and spas
• Humidifiers
• Gardening soils or potting mixes (associated with Legionella longbeachae strain)

The present Sydney outbreak has concentrated mainly on waterborne transmission, but it's a wake-up call of the various means by which this illness can enter the public domain.

What are the Containment and Prevention Strategies?

Prevention of Legionnaires' disease heavily depends on the upkeep of water systems where microorganisms can flourish. Regular testing of cooling towers is required in New South Wales under the Public Health Regulation 2022.

Commercial and residential building operators are required to follow stringent monitoring procedures, such as regular monthly inspections and instant cleaning upon an increase in bacterial count. The detection of Legionella leads to disinfection by heat, biocides, or other methods of sterilization.

Public awareness also has an essential part to play. Individuals at risk—particularly those in older structures or areas with recent outbreaks—need to be aware of the onset of symptoms and seek medical help immediately if they are ill.

Although the Sydney outbreak might appear geographically isolated, it represents a larger public health problem encountered in much of the globe's urban centers. Neglect of infrastructure, aging pipes, and spotty water quality monitoring can each be responsible for such outbreaks.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates approximately 10,000 cases of Legionnaires' disease each year, a figure that probably exceeds this due to underreporting. The CDC says that the disease is disproportionately found among older adults and can be fatal if not detected early and treated.

As global warming continues to impact weather patterns and air-conditioning cooling demands increase, the conditions for bacterial growth within HVAC systems may worsen. Global cities need to invest in improved water management practices, monitoring heat pumps, and public awareness campaigns to reduce risk.

What Should You Do If You're Infected?

If you visited Sydney's CBD or surrounding suburbs during March and April, watch for symptoms—especially respiratory distress, fever, or extreme tiredness. NSW Health recommends the following:

• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if symptoms appear
• Inform them of your recent travel to potentially affected areas
• Get tested if symptoms suggest pneumonia or related complications

Although most patients recover with prompt antibiotic treatment, early intervention remains key.