Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

At-Home Test For Skin Cancer: Researchers Are Developing Easy Patch Tests For Diagnosis

When we hit peak COVID, with people being urged to stay at home and only to leave during emergencies, the issue of how we may be able to diagnose people with the virus, while making sure they aren’t contaminated in the process of getting the test, gave the rise to at-home tests While people were questioning how accurate it was, these <span>at home tests</span> prove to be of great health in difficult times. While now that COVID has died down, people are still opting for at-home test, so researchers looked into a new way to diagnose <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">cancer</a></span>. To be exact, <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/skin-cancer">skin cancer</a></span>. 

University of Michigan researchers have developed a new skin patch that could one day allow for easy, at-home testing for melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. The patch, called the <span>ExoPatch</span>, uses a simple test strip with two lines—much like a home COVID-19 test—to give quick results without needing a painful biopsy or blood test. This technology could help people detect melanoma much earlier. 

<h2>What Is Skin Cancer: Causes &amp; Prevention </h2>

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that begins when skin cells grow abnormally. These cells can harm and destroy healthy tissue. Sometimes, they can even spread to other parts of the body. 

There are many kinds of skin cancer. The most common types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. While these are common, they are also highly curable. The most dangerous form is melanoma, which is more likely to spread and is therefore harder to treat. 

Most skin cancers are caused by a lot of sun exposure, so they typically appear on parts of your body that get the most sun. You can lower your risk by protecting your skin with clothing or sunscreen. For cancers that appear on parts of the skin not exposed to the sun, the cause is often different. To stay safe, it's important to regularly check your skin for any changes and tell a doctor about anything you notice. 

The ExoPatch is a small silicone patch with tiny, star-shaped needles. These needles are so small they only go into the very top layer of the skin and don't draw blood, making the process less painful. The needles are coated with a special gel that attracts and collects exosomes, which are tiny packets released by cells. Cancerous cells release specific exosomes that can indicate the presence of a tumor. 

After wearing the patch for just 15 minutes, you can remove it and place it in a liquid that dissolves the gel and releases the exosomes. You then dip a test strip into the liquid. If two lines appear, it means melanoma exosomes were found. If only one line appears, the test is negative. 

Exosomes were once thought to be cellular waste, but scientists now know they carry information like DNA and RNA and are used by cells to communicate. Cancer cells use exosomes to prepare other tissues for tumors to spread. By detecting these specific cancer exosomes, the ExoPatch could catch cancer earlier than previous methods. In initial tests on mice, the patch was able to successfully tell the difference between healthy skin and melanoma tissue, collecting 11.5 times more cancerous exosomes from the melanoma samples. 

The ExoPatch is still in the early stages of development, but the researchers are optimistic about its potential. After further testing on humans, this technology could be modified to detect other cancers with solid tumors, such as lung, breast, colon, and prostate cancer. The team has applied for a patent for the patch, which they believe could have huge applications for at-home disease detection in the future. 

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When we hit peak COVID, with people being urged to stay at home and only to leave during emergencies, the issue of how we may be able to diagnose people with the virus, while making sure they aren’t contaminated in the process of getting the test, gave the rise to at-home tests While people were questioning how accurate it was, these at home tests prove to be of great health in difficult times. While now that COVID has died down, people are still opting for at-home test, so researchers looked into a new way to diagnose cancer. To be exact, skin cancer. University of Michigan researchers have developed a new skin patch that could one day allow for easy, at-home testing for melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. The patch, called the ExoPatch, uses a simple test strip with two lines—much like a home COVID-19 test—to give quick results without needing a painful biopsy or blood test. This technology could help people detect melanoma much earlier. What Is Skin Cancer: Causes & Prevention Skin cancer is a type of cancer that begins when skin cells grow abnormally. These cells can harm and destroy healthy tissue. Sometimes, they can even spread to other parts of the body. There are many kinds of skin cancer. The most common types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. While these are common, they are also highly curable. The most dangerous form is melanoma, which is more likely to spread and is therefore harder to treat. Causes and Prevention Most skin cancers are caused by a lot of sun exposure, so they typically appear on parts of your body that get the most sun. You can lower your risk by protecting your skin with clothing or sunscreen. For cancers that appear on parts of the skin not exposed to the sun, the cause is often different. To stay safe, it's important to regularly check your skin for any changes and tell a doctor about anything you notice. How the ExoPatch Works The ExoPatch is a small silicone patch with tiny, star-shaped needles. These needles are so small they only go into the very top layer of the skin and don't draw blood, making the process less painful. The needles are coated with a special gel that attracts and collects exosomes, which are tiny packets released by cells. Cancerous cells release specific exosomes that can indicate the presence of a tumor. After wearing the patch for just 15 minutes, you can remove it and place it in a liquid that dissolves the gel and releases the exosomes. You then dip a test strip into the liquid. If two lines appear, it means melanoma exosomes were found. If only one line appears, the test is negative. Science Behind the Test Exosomes were once thought to be cellular waste, but scientists now know they carry information like DNA and RNA and are used by cells to communicate. Cancer cells use exosomes to prepare other tissues for tumors to spread. By detecting these specific cancer exosomes, the ExoPatch could catch cancer earlier than previous methods. In initial tests on mice, the patch was able to successfully tell the difference between healthy skin and melanoma tissue, collecting 11.5 times more cancerous exosomes from the melanoma samples. The ExoPatch is still in the early stages of development, but the researchers are optimistic about its potential. After further testing on humans, this technology could be modified to detect other cancers with solid tumors, such as lung, breast, colon, and prostate cancer. The team has applied for a patent for the patch, which they believe could have huge applications for at-home disease detection in the future. 

at-home test for skin cancer: researchers are developing easy patch tests for diagnosis

Ishita Roy

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Understanding Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome: When Pain Persists Beyond Injury

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A retracted <span>eardrum</span>, also called tympanic membrane atelectasis, is a condition where the eardrum gets pulled inward toward the middle ear. Normally, the eardrum (or tympanic membrane) acts as a boundary between the outer and middle ear, transmitting sound vibrations to tiny bones that help us hear. But when it collapses inward, that delicate process can be disrupted.

The condition is often silent at first, meaning people may not realize they have it. But in some cases, it can escalate, causing discomfort or even permanent <span>hearing</span> damage.

In most cases, a retracted eardrum doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms. But when the retraction becomes severe enough to affect structures inside the ear, individuals may experience:

<ul><li>Earache</li><li>Temporary hearing loss</li><li>Fluid discharge from the ear</li></ul>

If left untreated, a chronic retracted eardrum can lead to permanent hearing loss.

The most common cause of a retracted eardrum is Eustachian tube dysfunction. These narrow tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and help regulate ear pressure.

When they don’t work properly, pressure inside the ear drops, effectively pulling the eardrum inward.

<ul><li>Recent or recurring ear infections</li><li>Cleft palate</li><li>A poorly healed eardrum after rupture</li><li>Enlarged tonsils or adenoids</li></ul>

Upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold

Diagnosis typically begins with a discussion about symptoms and any recent infections. A doctor will then use an otoscope, a tool with a light, to look into the ear canal. This allows them to visually confirm if the eardrum is abnormally positioned or collapsed.

<h4>Treatment Options: When to Wait and When to Act</h4>

Not all <span>retracted eardrums</span> require immediate treatment. In mild cases, doctors often recommend a “watch and wait” approach, as pressure may normalize naturally over a few months.

For more advanced cases, several interventions are possible:

<strong>Decongestants or nasal steroids: </strong>These can improve airflow in the ear and relieve pressure.

<strong>The Valsalva maneuver:</strong> This self-administered technique involves closing your mouth, pinching your nose, and gently blowing as if trying to pop your ears. It should be performed under medical guidance.

If the condition begins to affect hearing or causes persistent pain, surgical options may be considered.

<strong>Tube Insertion (Myringotomy):</strong>

Often used in children with recurring ear infections, this procedure involves placing small tubes into the eardrum to help ventilate the middle ear.

In more severe cases, part of the damaged eardrum may be removed and replaced with cartilage from the outer ear. This stiffens the eardrum, preventing future collapses.

The outlook largely depends on the severity. Minor retractions usually resolve without intervention and don’t cause long-term damage. However, more serious cases, especially those that persist or press against ear bones, may result in hearing loss and need medical or surgical correction.

Experts recommend seeking medical attention if you notice ear discomfort, hearing changes, or frequent infections. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term issues and protect one of your most important senses, your hearing.

retracted eardrums

health and wellness

hearing

eardrum

hearing health

A retracted eardrum, also called tympanic membrane atelectasis, is a condition where the eardrum gets pulled inward toward the middle ear. Normally, the eardrum (or tympanic membrane) acts as a boundary between the outer and middle ear, transmitting sound vibrations to tiny bones that help us hear. But when it collapses inward, that delicate process can be disrupted.The condition is often silent at first, meaning people may not realize they have it. But in some cases, it can escalate, causing discomfort or even permanent hearing damage.Spotting the SymptomsIn most cases, a retracted eardrum doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms. But when the retraction becomes severe enough to affect structures inside the ear, individuals may experience:EaracheTemporary hearing lossFluid discharge from the earIf left untreated, a chronic retracted eardrum can lead to permanent hearing loss.Why Does It Happen?The most common cause of a retracted eardrum is Eustachian tube dysfunction. These narrow tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and help regulate ear pressure.When they don’t work properly, pressure inside the ear drops, effectively pulling the eardrum inward.Some common triggers include:Recent or recurring ear infectionsCleft palateA poorly healed eardrum after ruptureEnlarged tonsils or adenoidsUpper respiratory infections, such as the common coldHow Doctors Diagnose ItDiagnosis typically begins with a discussion about symptoms and any recent infections. A doctor will then use an otoscope, a tool with a light, to look into the ear canal. This allows them to visually confirm if the eardrum is abnormally positioned or collapsed.Treatment Options: When to Wait and When to ActNot all retracted eardrums require immediate treatment. In mild cases, doctors often recommend a “watch and wait” approach, as pressure may normalize naturally over a few months.For more advanced cases, several interventions are possible:Decongestants or nasal steroids: These can improve airflow in the ear and relieve pressure.The Valsalva maneuver: This self-administered technique involves closing your mouth, pinching your nose, and gently blowing as if trying to pop your ears. It should be performed under medical guidance.If the condition begins to affect hearing or causes persistent pain, surgical options may be considered.Surgical InterventionsTwo common surgical treatments are:Tube Insertion (Myringotomy):Often used in children with recurring ear infections, this procedure involves placing small tubes into the eardrum to help ventilate the middle ear.Tympanoplasty:In more severe cases, part of the damaged eardrum may be removed and replaced with cartilage from the outer ear. This stiffens the eardrum, preventing future collapses.What’s the Prognosis?The outlook largely depends on the severity. Minor retractions usually resolve without intervention and don’t cause long-term damage. However, more serious cases, especially those that persist or press against ear bones, may result in hearing loss and need medical or surgical correction.Experts recommend seeking medical attention if you notice ear discomfort, hearing changes, or frequent infections. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term issues and protect one of your most important senses, your hearing.

what does retracted eardrum mean? here's all that you need to know about

Could Millipedes Help Treat Pain And Parkinson’s?

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In a surprising discovery that bridges the gap between creepy crawlies and cutting-edge neuroscience, researchers at Virginia Tech have identified unique compounds in millipede secretions that could pave the way for future treatments for pain and neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, depression, and schizophrenia.

Led by chemist Emily Meyers, the research team uncovered naturally occurring alkaloids in the defensive secretions of the Andrognathus corticarius, a species known colloquially as the Hokie millipede. The millipede, which lives under decomposing leaves and branches on the university’s Blacksburg campus, produces a chemical cocktail that not only deters predators but may influence neuroreceptors in the brain.

“These compounds are quite complex, so they’re going to take some time to synthesize in the lab,” said Meyers, who specializes in studying underexplored ecological sources for potential new drugs.

The compounds, dubbed andrognathanols and andrognathines by Meyers’ team, belong to a class of complex alkaloids. They were discovered after researchers collected several millipedes from wooded areas on campus and analyzed the contents of their defensive glands using a suite of chemical tools.

The results were striking: some of these secretions had a disorienting effect on ants, one of the millipede’s presumed predators. But that’s not all, several of the compounds were found to interact with a neuroreceptor known as Sigma-1. This receptor has been linked to multiple brain disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), and Parkinson’s disease.

In addition to warding off predators, the researchers discovered that the compounds may also serve a social function, possibly helping millipedes signal their location to family members in leaf-littered environments.

This study, recently published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, is not Meyers’ first foray into studying arthropod chemistry. She has been collaborating with entomologist Paul Marek, and together, they have previously suggested that the family of alkaloids found in millipede secretions could have significant therapeutic potential.

“Millipedes have been around for hundreds of millions of years. They’ve developed these intricate chemical defense systems, and we’re only beginning to understand their value,” said Meyers.

While the compounds show promise, the next hurdle is a familiar one in drug discovery: scalability. The compounds exist in trace amounts in the wild, and researchers need larger quantities for in-depth testing and potential pharmaceutical development.

The team is now exploring partnerships with laboratories that can synthesize the compounds in bulk, which would allow for further testing on their biological activity and medicinal properties. Meyers emphasized that while the research is still in its early stages, the potential applications are broad, from pain management to novel treatments for complex neurological conditions.

“Nature has always been a wellspring of inspiration for medicine,” said Meyers. “And sometimes, the most powerful solutions come from the smallest and most unexpected creatures, like a tiny millipede under a log.”

With this groundbreaking discovery, scientists are reminded once again that the natural world may hold secrets that, once unlocked, could transform human health in unimaginable ways.

millipedes pain killer

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millipedes as pain killer

natures pain killer

In a surprising discovery that bridges the gap between creepy crawlies and cutting-edge neuroscience, researchers at Virginia Tech have identified unique compounds in millipede secretions that could pave the way for future treatments for pain and neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, depression, and schizophrenia.Led by chemist Emily Meyers, the research team uncovered naturally occurring alkaloids in the defensive secretions of the Andrognathus corticarius, a species known colloquially as the Hokie millipede. The millipede, which lives under decomposing leaves and branches on the university’s Blacksburg campus, produces a chemical cocktail that not only deters predators but may influence neuroreceptors in the brain.“These compounds are quite complex, so they’re going to take some time to synthesize in the lab,” said Meyers, who specializes in studying underexplored ecological sources for potential new drugs.A Hidden Chemical ArsenalThe compounds, dubbed andrognathanols and andrognathines by Meyers’ team, belong to a class of complex alkaloids. They were discovered after researchers collected several millipedes from wooded areas on campus and analyzed the contents of their defensive glands using a suite of chemical tools.The results were striking: some of these secretions had a disorienting effect on ants, one of the millipede’s presumed predators. But that’s not all, several of the compounds were found to interact with a neuroreceptor known as Sigma-1. This receptor has been linked to multiple brain disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), and Parkinson’s disease.In addition to warding off predators, the researchers discovered that the compounds may also serve a social function, possibly helping millipedes signal their location to family members in leaf-littered environments.From Defense to Drug DiscoveryThis study, recently published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, is not Meyers’ first foray into studying arthropod chemistry. She has been collaborating with entomologist Paul Marek, and together, they have previously suggested that the family of alkaloids found in millipede secretions could have significant therapeutic potential.“Millipedes have been around for hundreds of millions of years. They’ve developed these intricate chemical defense systems, and we’re only beginning to understand their value,” said Meyers.While the compounds show promise, the next hurdle is a familiar one in drug discovery: scalability. The compounds exist in trace amounts in the wild, and researchers need larger quantities for in-depth testing and potential pharmaceutical development.The Road AheadThe team is now exploring partnerships with laboratories that can synthesize the compounds in bulk, which would allow for further testing on their biological activity and medicinal properties. Meyers emphasized that while the research is still in its early stages, the potential applications are broad, from pain management to novel treatments for complex neurological conditions.“Nature has always been a wellspring of inspiration for medicine,” said Meyers. “And sometimes, the most powerful solutions come from the smallest and most unexpected creatures, like a tiny millipede under a log.”With this groundbreaking discovery, scientists are reminded once again that the natural world may hold secrets that, once unlocked, could transform human health in unimaginable ways.

could millipedes help treat pain and parkinson’s?

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The usage of <span>marijuana</span> has been a heavily debated subject. Many states have looked into legalizing the controlled substance as there are many potential benefits to it, while others have understandably pointed out how it can cause harm as well as lead to addiction. <span>Cannabis</span> is the most commonly used substance after alcohol and tobacco, according to a 2018 Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology study, US also saw an increase in cannabis use disorder (CUD) as well as a decrease in the perceived risk of cannabis. However, the researchers have now found a concerning link between cannabis and <span>oral cancer</span>. 

A new study suggests that people who smoke a lot of marijuana may be over three times more likely to get oral cancer. This risk is even higher for those who also smoke cigarettes. The study's lead author explains that cannabis smoke contains many of the same cancer-causing chemicals found in tobacco smoke, which can damage the cells that line the mouth over time. 

<h2>Previous Speculations about Cannabis and Cancer </h2>

Interestingly, previous researchers have shown that cannabis compounds could actually benefit people. According to a 2024 International Journal of Molecular Sciences study the previous studies on the same have had mixed answers. However, lab research on oral cancer cells has shown some promising anti-cancer effects. In these studies, cannabinoids have been found to kill cancer cells and stop them from multiplying. They do this by blocking certain signals within the cancer cells. 

Beyond fighting cancer, cannabinoids are already used in some countries to help cancer patients feel better during treatment. They can help with common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, such as anxiety, depression, pain, and nausea, which improves a patient's overall well-being. 

The relationship between cannabis compounds and oral cancer is complicated. While there is promising evidence that cannabinoids could have anti-cancer properties and help manage treatment side effects, more research is needed to fully understand their potential risks and benefits. 

Published in the journal Preventive Medicine Reports, the research looked at the health records of over 45,000 patients. The team focused on 949 people with cannabis use disorder, which means they used marijuana almost every day. The researchers tracked these patients for five years to see who developed oral cancer. They also made sure to account for other risk factors, like a person's age or whether they smoked cigarettes, to get a clearer picture of the risk from marijuana alone. 

The results were very clear. People with cannabis use disorder were 325% more likely to get oral cancer than those who didn't have the disorder. This risk jumped to 624% for people who were heavy users of both marijuana and cigarettes. 

Researchers believe that the high risk of oral cancer in heavy marijuana users isn't just because of smoke. It's possible that THC, the main compound in marijuana, might weaken the immune system. A weaker immune system would make it harder for the body to fight off cancer cells, making a person more vulnerable to developing a tumor. This new evidence adds to a growing body of research that suggests long-term, heavy use of marijuana may increase cancer risk in the areas exposed to smoke. 

Heavy Weed Usage and oral cancer

marijuana

cannabis

oral cancer

oral cancer risk

higher chances of oral cancer

The usage of marijuana has been a heavily debated subject. Many states have looked into legalizing the controlled substance as there are many potential benefits to it, while others have understandably pointed out how it can cause harm as well as lead to addiction. Cannabis is the most commonly used substance after alcohol and tobacco, according to a 2018 Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology study, US also saw an increase in cannabis use disorder (CUD) as well as a decrease in the perceived risk of cannabis. However, the researchers have now found a concerning link between cannabis and oral cancer. A new study suggests that people who smoke a lot of marijuana may be over three times more likely to get oral cancer. This risk is even higher for those who also smoke cigarettes. The study's lead author explains that cannabis smoke contains many of the same cancer-causing chemicals found in tobacco smoke, which can damage the cells that line the mouth over time. Previous Speculations about Cannabis and Cancer Interestingly, previous researchers have shown that cannabis compounds could actually benefit people. According to a 2024 International Journal of Molecular Sciences study the previous studies on the same have had mixed answers. However, lab research on oral cancer cells has shown some promising anti-cancer effects. In these studies, cannabinoids have been found to kill cancer cells and stop them from multiplying. They do this by blocking certain signals within the cancer cells. Beyond fighting cancer, cannabinoids are already used in some countries to help cancer patients feel better during treatment. They can help with common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, such as anxiety, depression, pain, and nausea, which improves a patient's overall well-being. The relationship between cannabis compounds and oral cancer is complicated. While there is promising evidence that cannabinoids could have anti-cancer properties and help manage treatment side effects, more research is needed to fully understand their potential risks and benefits. How the Study Was Done Published in the journal Preventive Medicine Reports, the research looked at the health records of over 45,000 patients. The team focused on 949 people with cannabis use disorder, which means they used marijuana almost every day. The researchers tracked these patients for five years to see who developed oral cancer. They also made sure to account for other risk factors, like a person's age or whether they smoked cigarettes, to get a clearer picture of the risk from marijuana alone. What the Study Found The results were very clear. People with cannabis use disorder were 325% more likely to get oral cancer than those who didn't have the disorder. This risk jumped to 624% for people who were heavy users of both marijuana and cigarettes. Researchers believe that the high risk of oral cancer in heavy marijuana users isn't just because of smoke. It's possible that THC, the main compound in marijuana, might weaken the immune system. A weaker immune system would make it harder for the body to fight off cancer cells, making a person more vulnerable to developing a tumor. This new evidence adds to a growing body of research that suggests long-term, heavy use of marijuana may increase cancer risk in the areas exposed to smoke.  

heavy weed usage could increase your chances of cancer by 3 times

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At-Home Test For Skin Cancer: Researchers Are Developing Easy Patch Tests For Diagnosis

Quick Stories

Heavy Weed Usage Could Increase Your Chances Of Cancer By 3 Times

What Does Retracted Eardrum Mean? Here's All That You Need To Know About

Could Millipedes Help Treat Pain And Parkinson’s?

Health Conditions A-Z

Heavy Weed Usage Could Increase Your Chances Of Cancer By 3 Times

What Does Retracted Eardrum Mean? Here's All That You Need To Know About

At-Home Test For Skin Cancer: Researchers Are Developing Easy Patch Tests For Diagnosis