Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Bubonic Plague Changed The Human Immune System, Here's How

After the California bubonic plague case, where a resident who went camping at South Lake Tahoe area tested positive for plague, lot has been talked about the disease. The bubonic plague is often remembered as one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. 

Today, with the California resident case, we all know that it still lingers in scattered regions, but antibiotics make it far less threatening.

What is less widely known is that the plague may have permanently altered human biology, leaving an imprint on the immune system that persists even now.

<strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/what-is-bubonic-plague-california-case-sparks-health-alert-check-symptoms-and-everything-you-need-to-know-article-152500614" data-type="tilCustomLink">Bubonic Plague California Resident: Here's All That You Need To Know About The Disease</a></strong>

The plague is caused by Yersinia pestis, a rod-shaped bacterium carried by fleas that thrive on rodents and other wild animals. While unremarkable in appearance under a microscope, this microbe has shaped centuries of human history. At its peak during the 14th century, the Black Death killed tens of millions across Europe, with entire towns and communities wiped out in a matter of months.

Earlier outbreaks of plague are believed to stretch back thousands of years, with traces of the bacterium found in ancient human remains. Yet the medieval Black Death was unlike anything before, spreading rapidly through trade routes and devastating Europe within a few short years.

<h2>Natural Selection in the Wake of the Black Death</h2>

The scale of mortality during plague outbreaks raised an intriguing question: could survival have been influenced by genetics? 

If certain individuals carried genetic variations that helped them fight off the infection, those traits might have been passed on to their descendants. In essence, the plague may have acted as a brutal filter, altering the genetic makeup of future generations.

Modern genetic studies now provide evidence for this idea. By comparing DNA from plague victims with that of later populations, researchers have observed that people who lived through the plague era and passed on their genes tended to carry variants that supported stronger immune defenses. This suggests that the catastrophe of the Black Death created a surge of natural selection across affected regions.

<h2>Unlocking Clues from Ancient Bones</h2>

For a long time, studying the genetic impact of plague was extremely difficult. DNA preserved in centuries-old skeletons is often degraded and contaminated by soil and microbes. However, advances in ancient DNA sequencing opened new doors. 

Scientists discovered that the inner ear’s bony labyrinth, one of the densest parts of the human body, preserves intact DNA remarkably well. Extracting genetic material from this area has allowed researchers to examine how plague survivors may have differed from those who succumbed.

With these methods, mass graves of plague victims have become key resources for understanding how the disease influenced human biology. By sequencing genomes from skeletons buried before, during, and after outbreaks, scientists can track changes across generations.

One of the clearest examples of plague-driven selection lies in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. This group of genes is essential for immune defense, helping the body recognize and destroy cells infected by pathogens. Even subtle differences in HLA variants can determine whether someone is more resilient against a particular disease.

Evidence suggests that during the plague years, people carrying certain HLA variants were more likely to survive. These protective versions of the genes became more common in descendants over time. This mirrors what scientists have observed in more recent pandemics, such as Covid-19, where some people showed natural resistance thanks to genetic variations in immune-regulating genes.

Another key discovery centers on a gene known as ERAP2. This gene produces a protein that helps immune cells break down foreign invaders, including bacteria like Yersinia pestis. Researchers studying remains from plague cemeteries in London and Denmark found that individuals who carried a particular version of ERAP2 were twice as likely to survive the Black Death.

By the end of the 14th century, this protective variant had become widespread among Europeans, appearing in roughly half the population in London and even more frequently in Denmark. It is one of the strongest pieces of evidence showing how a pandemic can reshape human genetics in just a few generations.

However, the story is not entirely one of benefit. Genes that protect against deadly infections may also carry hidden costs. 

For example, some of the same immune-system variations that helped ancestors survive plague outbreaks are now associated with autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This illustrates the trade-offs of evolution: what once ensured survival may create vulnerabilities in a very different modern environment.

While the genetic evidence is compelling, scientists caution that we are only beginning to understand the full scope of plague’s impact. To get a clearer picture, thousands more ancient genomes from across Europe and Asia need to be analyzed. Only then can researchers determine how widespread these adaptive changes really became.

There is also debate over whether plague was the most significant driver of immune evolution. Diseases like smallpox, which persisted for centuries and claimed hundreds of millions of lives, may have exerted an even greater influence. The challenge is teasing apart the effects of different pathogens across different time periods.

<strong>You May Like To Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/california-resident-lake-tahoe-tests-positive-for-plague-what-does-bubonic-plague-the-black-death-from-rodents-teach-us-are-there-more-than-one-type-of-plague-article-152498883" data-type="tilCustomLink">What History Teaches Us About Plague? Are There More Than One Type?</a></strong>

Despite its reputation as a medieval killer, plague has not disappeared. Small numbers of cases are still reported each year in parts of the world, from the western United States to Madagascar. Thanks to antibiotics, survival rates are far higher today, but the fact that the disease persists is a reminder of its enduring presence in nature.

Rodents and fleas continue to serve as reservoirs for Yersinia pestis. Outbreaks in isolated communities highlight the delicate balance between human society and the microbial world. While the scale of devastation seen during the Black Death is unlikely to return, the evolutionary lessons it left behind remain relevant.

Centuries later, the legacy of plague survives in our DNA. Some of the same genetic defenses that once meant the difference between life and death still influence how our immune systems function today.

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After the California bubonic plague case, where a resident who went camping at South Lake Tahoe area tested positive for plague, lot has been talked about the disease. The bubonic plague is often remembered as one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. Today, with the California resident case, we all know that it still lingers in scattered regions, but antibiotics make it far less threatening.What is less widely known is that the plague may have permanently altered human biology, leaving an imprint on the immune system that persists even now.Also Read: Bubonic Plague California Resident: Here's All That You Need To Know About The DiseaseThe Bacterium Behind the PlagueThe plague is caused by Yersinia pestis, a rod-shaped bacterium carried by fleas that thrive on rodents and other wild animals. While unremarkable in appearance under a microscope, this microbe has shaped centuries of human history. At its peak during the 14th century, the Black Death killed tens of millions across Europe, with entire towns and communities wiped out in a matter of months.Earlier outbreaks of plague are believed to stretch back thousands of years, with traces of the bacterium found in ancient human remains. Yet the medieval Black Death was unlike anything before, spreading rapidly through trade routes and devastating Europe within a few short years.Natural Selection in the Wake of the Black DeathThe scale of mortality during plague outbreaks raised an intriguing question: could survival have been influenced by genetics? If certain individuals carried genetic variations that helped them fight off the infection, those traits might have been passed on to their descendants. In essence, the plague may have acted as a brutal filter, altering the genetic makeup of future generations.Modern genetic studies now provide evidence for this idea. By comparing DNA from plague victims with that of later populations, researchers have observed that people who lived through the plague era and passed on their genes tended to carry variants that supported stronger immune defenses. This suggests that the catastrophe of the Black Death created a surge of natural selection across affected regions.Unlocking Clues from Ancient BonesFor a long time, studying the genetic impact of plague was extremely difficult. DNA preserved in centuries-old skeletons is often degraded and contaminated by soil and microbes. However, advances in ancient DNA sequencing opened new doors. Scientists discovered that the inner ear’s bony labyrinth, one of the densest parts of the human body, preserves intact DNA remarkably well. Extracting genetic material from this area has allowed researchers to examine how plague survivors may have differed from those who succumbed.With these methods, mass graves of plague victims have become key resources for understanding how the disease influenced human biology. By sequencing genomes from skeletons buried before, during, and after outbreaks, scientists can track changes across generations.The Role of HLA GenesOne of the clearest examples of plague-driven selection lies in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. This group of genes is essential for immune defense, helping the body recognize and destroy cells infected by pathogens. Even subtle differences in HLA variants can determine whether someone is more resilient against a particular disease.Evidence suggests that during the plague years, people carrying certain HLA variants were more likely to survive. These protective versions of the genes became more common in descendants over time. This mirrors what scientists have observed in more recent pandemics, such as Covid-19, where some people showed natural resistance thanks to genetic variations in immune-regulating genes.A Gene Called ERAP2Another key discovery centers on a gene known as ERAP2. This gene produces a protein that helps immune cells break down foreign invaders, including bacteria like Yersinia pestis. Researchers studying remains from plague cemeteries in London and Denmark found that individuals who carried a particular version of ERAP2 were twice as likely to survive the Black Death.By the end of the 14th century, this protective variant had become widespread among Europeans, appearing in roughly half the population in London and even more frequently in Denmark. It is one of the strongest pieces of evidence showing how a pandemic can reshape human genetics in just a few generations.Balancing Benefits and RisksHowever, the story is not entirely one of benefit. Genes that protect against deadly infections may also carry hidden costs. For example, some of the same immune-system variations that helped ancestors survive plague outbreaks are now associated with autoimmune disorders, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This illustrates the trade-offs of evolution: what once ensured survival may create vulnerabilities in a very different modern environment.Why More Research is NeededWhile the genetic evidence is compelling, scientists caution that we are only beginning to understand the full scope of plague’s impact. To get a clearer picture, thousands more ancient genomes from across Europe and Asia need to be analyzed. Only then can researchers determine how widespread these adaptive changes really became.There is also debate over whether plague was the most significant driver of immune evolution. Diseases like smallpox, which persisted for centuries and claimed hundreds of millions of lives, may have exerted an even greater influence. The challenge is teasing apart the effects of different pathogens across different time periods.What To RememberYou May Like To Read: What History Teaches Us About Plague? Are There More Than One Type?Despite its reputation as a medieval killer, plague has not disappeared. Small numbers of cases are still reported each year in parts of the world, from the western United States to Madagascar. Thanks to antibiotics, survival rates are far higher today, but the fact that the disease persists is a reminder of its enduring presence in nature.Rodents and fleas continue to serve as reservoirs for Yersinia pestis. Outbreaks in isolated communities highlight the delicate balance between human society and the microbial world. While the scale of devastation seen during the Black Death is unlikely to return, the evolutionary lessons it left behind remain relevant.Centuries later, the legacy of plague survives in our DNA. Some of the same genetic defenses that once meant the difference between life and death still influence how our immune systems function today.

bubonic plague changed the human immune system, here's how the plague in california  south lake tahoe reminds us of the black death black plague

Aarushi Bhadury

Do You Drink Coffee Too Hot? It Could Increase Cancer Risk By 6 Times

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Drinking a hot cup of coffee on a winter morning or chilly evening is one of the best feelings one in the world. However, did you know this habit could lead to you risking your health? 

A new study suggests that drinking very hot tea or coffee often might increase your risk of a type of <span>throat cancer</span> known as <span>oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma</span> (ESCC). Researchers looked at the habits of over 450,000 people in the UK. They found that those who drank eight or more cups of "very hot" drinks a day were almost six times more likely to get this cancer over a 12-year period. 

A "very hot" drink was defined as being hotter than 149°F (65°C). The study also found that the more hot drinks a person had, the higher their risk. For example, drinking four to six cups a day raised the risk by almost four times, and six to eight cups raised it by nearly five times. 

<h2>Do <span rel="noindex">Hot Drinks Lead To Cancer</span>? </h2>

Although scientists don't know the exact reason, they think that drinking very hot liquids over and over might damage the cells in your throat. This constant damage could eventually lead to cancer. 

In a study with animals, drinking very hot water (158°F or 70°C) actually helped tumors grow in rats. A separate study in Iran also found that people who drank tea hotter than 140°F (60°C) had a higher risk of throat cancer. 

Experts from Cancer Research UK noted that 60°C is "a lot hotter than most cups of tea." They added that if you let your tea cool for a few minutes or add cold milk, you are likely not to increase your risk of cancer. The key takeaway is to avoid drinking beverages at extremely high temperatures. 

According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the idea that very hot drinks like coffee or tea could cause cancer has been around for a long time. The theory is that the heat could damage the lining of your throat, and over time, this damage could lead to cancer. While some animal studies have shown a link, this was at temperatures much hotter than what people would normally drink. 

More recently, some studies from other countries have linked hot drinks to a type of throat cancer, but the evidence isn't very strong, especially for people in the U.S. and Europe. They explained how a study from China also found a higher risk of throat cancer in people who drank very hot tea, but these people were also heavy smokers or drinkers. This makes it difficult to say that the hot tea alone was the cause. 

While many researchers have pointed that out there is a link, there are many crucial factors missing. Experts explain that these studies are misleading for several reasons: 

<ul><li>The type of cancer linked to hot drinks (squamous cell carcinoma) is much less common in the U.S. than other types.</li><li>The study participants often had other risk factors, like smoking, drinking alcohol, or living with environmental issues. This makes it hard to be sure if the hot tea was the real problem.</li><li>The China study wasn't very scientific; it just asked people to guess how hot their tea was.</li><li>Even the study from Iran, which actually measured the temperature, had a problem because almost everyone in that region drinks hot tea, so there was no good group to compare them to.</li><li>Healthcare professionals explain that there is no solid evidence that drinking hot liquids by themselves increases your risk of cancer. At most, it might add to the risk if you also smoke or drink alcohol.</li></ul>If you're still worried, it's a good idea to let your coffee or tea cool down for a few seconds before you drink it. However, it is also recommended to focus on the factors that are definitely linked to a higher risk of throat cancer: smoking, drinking alcohol, obesity, and acid reflux (GERD).

Hot Coffee and Cancer

Hot Drinks Lead To Cancer

oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma

throat cancer and hot drink

throat cancer

Drinking a hot cup of coffee on a winter morning or chilly evening is one of the best feelings one in the world. However, did you know this habit could lead to you risking your health? A new study suggests that drinking very hot tea or coffee often might increase your risk of a type of throat cancer known as oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Researchers looked at the habits of over 450,000 people in the UK. They found that those who drank eight or more cups of "very hot" drinks a day were almost six times more likely to get this cancer over a 12-year period. A "very hot" drink was defined as being hotter than 149°F (65°C). The study also found that the more hot drinks a person had, the higher their risk. For example, drinking four to six cups a day raised the risk by almost four times, and six to eight cups raised it by nearly five times. Do Hot Drinks Lead To Cancer? Although scientists don't know the exact reason, they think that drinking very hot liquids over and over might damage the cells in your throat. This constant damage could eventually lead to cancer. In a study with animals, drinking very hot water (158°F or 70°C) actually helped tumors grow in rats. A separate study in Iran also found that people who drank tea hotter than 140°F (60°C) had a higher risk of throat cancer. Experts from Cancer Research UK noted that 60°C is "a lot hotter than most cups of tea." They added that if you let your tea cool for a few minutes or add cold milk, you are likely not to increase your risk of cancer. The key takeaway is to avoid drinking beverages at extremely high temperatures. Do Hot Drinks Harm Our Health? According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the idea that very hot drinks like coffee or tea could cause cancer has been around for a long time. The theory is that the heat could damage the lining of your throat, and over time, this damage could lead to cancer. While some animal studies have shown a link, this was at temperatures much hotter than what people would normally drink. More recently, some studies from other countries have linked hot drinks to a type of throat cancer, but the evidence isn't very strong, especially for people in the U.S. and Europe. They explained how a study from China also found a higher risk of throat cancer in people who drank very hot tea, but these people were also heavy smokers or drinkers. This makes it difficult to say that the hot tea alone was the cause. Do Hot Drinks Cause Cancer?While many researchers have pointed that out there is a link, there are many crucial factors missing. Experts explain that these studies are misleading for several reasons: The type of cancer linked to hot drinks (squamous cell carcinoma) is much less common in the U.S. than other types.The study participants often had other risk factors, like smoking, drinking alcohol, or living with environmental issues. This makes it hard to be sure if the hot tea was the real problem.The China study wasn't very scientific; it just asked people to guess how hot their tea was.Even the study from Iran, which actually measured the temperature, had a problem because almost everyone in that region drinks hot tea, so there was no good group to compare them to.Healthcare professionals explain that there is no solid evidence that drinking hot liquids by themselves increases your risk of cancer. At most, it might add to the risk if you also smoke or drink alcohol.If you're still worried, it's a good idea to let your coffee or tea cool down for a few seconds before you drink it. However, it is also recommended to focus on the factors that are definitely linked to a higher risk of throat cancer: smoking, drinking alcohol, obesity, and acid reflux (GERD).

do you drink coffee too hot? it could increase cancer risk by 6 times

Australian Scientists Grow World’s First Lab-made Human Skin With Blood Supply

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In a groundbreaking achievement, a team of Australian scientists has successfully grown the world’s first fully functioning lab-made human <span>skin</span> that comes with its own blood supply. This breakthrough, developed at the University of Queensland, could transform how we treat burns, skin grafts, and chronic skin diseases.

<h2>A Skin Model That Mimics Real Human Skin</h2>

The team, led by researchers at UQ’s Frazer Institute, used stem cells to create a replica of human skin that is almost indistinguishable from natural skin. This lab-grown model includes blood vessels, capillaries, hair follicles, nerves, different tissue layers, and even immune cells.

“This is the most life-like skin model developed anywhere in the world. It will allow us to study diseases and test treatments far more accurately,” explained lead researcher Dr. Abbas Shafiee, a tissue engineering and regenerative medicine scientist.

Until now, scientists were restricted in how closely they could study skin disorders and design therapies. With this new model, those barriers have been lifted.

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The process behind this innovation is as fascinating as the outcome. The team started by taking human skin cells and reprogramming them into stem cells. Stem cells are unique because they have the ability to transform into any type of cell in the body.

Once prepared, these stem cells were placed into petri dishes where they grew into miniature versions of skin, known as skin organoids. To make the skin more life-like, the researchers used the same stem cells to create tiny blood vessels. These were integrated into the organoids, enabling the skin to develop in a way that mirrored natural growth.

“It developed just like natural human skin, with layers, follicles, pigmentation, appendages, nerves, and most importantly, its own blood supply,” said Dr. Shafiee. The findings were recently published in the journal <em>Wiley Advanced Healthcare Materials</em>.

The breakthrough did not happen overnight. The lab-grown skin model is the result of six years of research and testing. The development demonstrates how far regenerative medicine has come, particularly in the field of stem cell science.

By creating skin with its own blood supply, researchers believe they can take skin engineering to a whole new level. Previous skin models lacked this crucial feature, limiting how effective they were for research or medical use.

<h2>Potential for Treating Skin Diseases</h2>

Co-author Professor Kiarash Khosrotehrani from the Frazer Institute highlighted how this achievement could change treatment options for people with chronic skin conditions. “Skin disorders can be difficult to treat, and it’s a real breakthrough to provide hope for people living with these challenges,” he said.

The model may be especially useful for studying and developing treatments for inflammatory and genetic skin conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and scleroderma. It could also lead to more effective skin grafts for burn victims and people with severe injuries.

Skin & Hair

skin

skincare

skin and hair

skin health

In a groundbreaking achievement, a team of Australian scientists has successfully grown the world’s first fully functioning lab-made human skin that comes with its own blood supply. This breakthrough, developed at the University of Queensland, could transform how we treat burns, skin grafts, and chronic skin diseases.A Skin Model That Mimics Real Human SkinThe team, led by researchers at UQ’s Frazer Institute, used stem cells to create a replica of human skin that is almost indistinguishable from natural skin. This lab-grown model includes blood vessels, capillaries, hair follicles, nerves, different tissue layers, and even immune cells.“This is the most life-like skin model developed anywhere in the world. It will allow us to study diseases and test treatments far more accurately,” explained lead researcher Dr. Abbas Shafiee, a tissue engineering and regenerative medicine scientist.Until now, scientists were restricted in how closely they could study skin disorders and design therapies. With this new model, those barriers have been lifted.Also Read: Japan Races To Develop World’s First Artificial Blood, Trials To BeginHow Scientists Built ItThe process behind this innovation is as fascinating as the outcome. The team started by taking human skin cells and reprogramming them into stem cells. Stem cells are unique because they have the ability to transform into any type of cell in the body.Once prepared, these stem cells were placed into petri dishes where they grew into miniature versions of skin, known as skin organoids. To make the skin more life-like, the researchers used the same stem cells to create tiny blood vessels. These were integrated into the organoids, enabling the skin to develop in a way that mirrored natural growth.“It developed just like natural human skin, with layers, follicles, pigmentation, appendages, nerves, and most importantly, its own blood supply,” said Dr. Shafiee. The findings were recently published in the journal Wiley Advanced Healthcare Materials.Six Years in the MakingThe breakthrough did not happen overnight. The lab-grown skin model is the result of six years of research and testing. The development demonstrates how far regenerative medicine has come, particularly in the field of stem cell science.By creating skin with its own blood supply, researchers believe they can take skin engineering to a whole new level. Previous skin models lacked this crucial feature, limiting how effective they were for research or medical use.Potential for Treating Skin DiseasesCo-author Professor Kiarash Khosrotehrani from the Frazer Institute highlighted how this achievement could change treatment options for people with chronic skin conditions. “Skin disorders can be difficult to treat, and it’s a real breakthrough to provide hope for people living with these challenges,” he said.The model may be especially useful for studying and developing treatments for inflammatory and genetic skin conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and scleroderma. It could also lead to more effective skin grafts for burn victims and people with severe injuries.

australian scientists grow world’s first lab-made human skin with blood supply

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What Are These Deepfake Videos On Social Media? (Credit - Canva)

As soon as people became aware of AI videos and pictures, one of the first things people were concerned about was how this can fake videos of people and cause trouble. Concerns about manipulative videos that can tarnish a person’s identity, revenge porn and many other issues were raised. Although many people remained steadfast in their belief that they would be able to recognize AI videos or pictures, other pointed out how it won’t be long before we start to no longer distinguish between the two. That time is not far off, in fact we may have already hit another roadblock, misinformation. 

Dr. Joel Bervell, a well-known physician on social media, recently discovered a deepfake video using his likeness to promote a product. The video featured his face but a different voice, and was posted on several platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. 

A CBS News investigation found more than 100 videos across social media featuring fake doctors. Some of these videos used the identities of real physicians to give medical advice or sell products, mostly related to beauty, wellness, and weight loss. Many of these videos were viewed millions of times. Cybersecurity company ESET also found over 20 similar accounts, noting that this type of content is reaching an increasingly wide audience. 

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<h2>What Are These <span rel="noindex">Deepfake Videos On Social Media</span>? </h2>

Deepfakes are duped videos or audios that are made with AI. This isn’t simple face swapping or editing, it is basically manipulating the media files to make it look like an individual is doing certain things or say something they never did. Reports of fake videos to TikTok, Meta (the parent company of Instagram), and YouTube. Both TikTok and Meta removed the flagged videos, stating they violated company policies. TikTok says it has proactively removed over 94% of content that violates its AI policies. 

YouTube, however, said the videos did not violate its Community Guidelines and would remain on the platform. The company stated its policies prohibit content that spreads <span>medical misinformation</span> contradicting local health authority guidance, but did not find the flagged videos to be in violation. Meta also noted that scammers are always changing their tactics to get around platform rules. 

According to Illinois State University identifying deepfakes can be difficult. Here are some things that could reveal whether a media file is deepfake or not. 

Look at the cheeks and forehead. Does the skin look too smooth or too wrinkled? Does it match the person's age? Sometimes, deepfakes don't get these details right. 

Check for natural shadows. Deepfakes can fail to correctly show how light and shadows work, making things look unnatural. 

Does a beard, mustache, or sideburns look real? Deepfakes can add or remove facial hair, but it might not look completely natural. 

Watch how the person blinks. Do they blink too much or not enough? Also, look at their lips. Do they match the size and color of the rest of their face? Deepfakes can often mess up these small details. 

Look for glare on their glasses. Is there too much glare? Does the glare change in a realistic way when they move? Fake videos often get this wrong. 

If the person has a mole or other facial marks, do they look real? Deepfakes might not recreate them accurately. 

<h2>How Can You <span rel="noindex">Identify Medical Misinformation</span>? </h2>

Before you can fight misinformation, you need to be able to recognize it. Here are some key things to check when you're looking at information online: 

Look for a "Contact Us" or "About Us" page on the website. Is the website from a trustworthy place, like a university (.edu) or government (.gov)? What are the author's qualifications, and have they written other things? Also, consider who shared the information with you—are they a reliable source, like a healthcare professional? 

Headlines are often written to grab your attention. Make sure the actual article backs up the headline's claims. Watch out for authors who only use certain facts or take information out of context. 

Credible articles will back up their claims with facts and sources. If a story has no sources, that's a red flag. If it does, check them to see if you come to the same conclusions. 

Sometimes people share old information that is no longer correct. Make sure the information is recent and relevant. 

Think about your own beliefs. Are you looking at the information objectively, or just looking for things that agree with what you already think? 

If something sounds too outrageous to be true, it might be a joke. Some websites create funny, fake news stories for entertainment. If you are unsure, ask a doctor, scientist, or even a librarian for help. You can also use reliable fact-checking websites to see if something is true. 

Deepfake Doctor Videos

Deepfake AI

Deepfake Doctor

False Medical Advice

Identify Medical Misinformation

Medical Misinformation

Deepfake Videos On Social Media

Deepfake Videos

As soon as people became aware of AI videos and pictures, one of the first things people were concerned about was how this can fake videos of people and cause trouble. Concerns about manipulative videos that can tarnish a person’s identity, revenge porn and many other issues were raised. Although many people remained steadfast in their belief that they would be able to recognize AI videos or pictures, other pointed out how it won’t be long before we start to no longer distinguish between the two. That time is not far off, in fact we may have already hit another roadblock, misinformation. Dr. Joel Bervell, a well-known physician on social media, recently discovered a deepfake video using his likeness to promote a product. The video featured his face but a different voice, and was posted on several platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. A CBS News investigation found more than 100 videos across social media featuring fake doctors. Some of these videos used the identities of real physicians to give medical advice or sell products, mostly related to beauty, wellness, and weight loss. Many of these videos were viewed millions of times. Cybersecurity company ESET also found over 20 similar accounts, noting that this type of content is reaching an increasingly wide audience. Also Read: Illinois Becomes First US State To Ban AI-Powered Mental Health Therapy; Why Is This Step Important In Ensuring Patient Safety?What Are These Deepfake Videos On Social Media? Deepfakes are duped videos or audios that are made with AI. This isn’t simple face swapping or editing, it is basically manipulating the media files to make it look like an individual is doing certain things or say something they never did. Reports of fake videos to TikTok, Meta (the parent company of Instagram), and YouTube. Both TikTok and Meta removed the flagged videos, stating they violated company policies. TikTok says it has proactively removed over 94% of content that violates its AI policies. YouTube, however, said the videos did not violate its Community Guidelines and would remain on the platform. The company stated its policies prohibit content that spreads medical misinformation contradicting local health authority guidance, but did not find the flagged videos to be in violation. Meta also noted that scammers are always changing their tactics to get around platform rules. How Can You Spot Deepfakes? According to Illinois State University identifying deepfakes can be difficult. Here are some things that could reveal whether a media file is deepfake or not. Skin Look at the cheeks and forehead. Does the skin look too smooth or too wrinkled? Does it match the person's age? Sometimes, deepfakes don't get these details right. Eyes and Eyebrows Check for natural shadows. Deepfakes can fail to correctly show how light and shadows work, making things look unnatural. Facial Hair Does a beard, mustache, or sideburns look real? Deepfakes can add or remove facial hair, but it might not look completely natural. Blinking and Lips Watch how the person blinks. Do they blink too much or not enough? Also, look at their lips. Do they match the size and color of the rest of their face? Deepfakes can often mess up these small details. Glasses Look for glare on their glasses. Is there too much glare? Does the glare change in a realistic way when they move? Fake videos often get this wrong. Moles If the person has a mole or other facial marks, do they look real? Deepfakes might not recreate them accurately. How Can You Identify Medical Misinformation? Before you can fight misinformation, you need to be able to recognize it. Here are some key things to check when you're looking at information online: Check the Source Look for a "Contact Us" or "About Us" page on the website. Is the website from a trustworthy place, like a university (.edu) or government (.gov)? What are the author's qualifications, and have they written other things? Also, consider who shared the information with you—are they a reliable source, like a healthcare professional? Read Past the Headline Headlines are often written to grab your attention. Make sure the actual article backs up the headline's claims. Watch out for authors who only use certain facts or take information out of context. Examine the Evidence Credible articles will back up their claims with facts and sources. If a story has no sources, that's a red flag. If it does, check them to see if you come to the same conclusions. Check the Date Sometimes people share old information that is no longer correct. Make sure the information is recent and relevant. Be Aware of Your Own Biases Think about your own beliefs. Are you looking at the information objectively, or just looking for things that agree with what you already think? Look for Satire If something sounds too outrageous to be true, it might be a joke. Some websites create funny, fake news stories for entertainment. If you are unsure, ask a doctor, scientist, or even a librarian for help. You can also use reliable fact-checking websites to see if something is true. 

deepfake doctor videos are pushing false medical advice, how can you identify medical misinformation

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