Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Do Covid-19 At-Home Tests Detect The New Variants?

In many ways <span>COVID</span>-19 has changed the way medicine and treatments work. During peak COVID wave, at-home test kits became a more accepted part of medical care for people, as stepping outside and visiting hospitals could also cause infection. As new strains of COVID keep mutating, many people have brought up concerns regarding the effectiveness of the at-home tests. 

The concern is regarding the fact that these at-home test kits are equipped to diagnose the new strains or are there certain strains that can go undetected. 

If you start feeling sick with symptoms like a cough, fever, or runny nose, you might worry if it's <span>COVID-19</span>. A simple way to check is by using an at-home COVID-19 test. You can easily find these tests at drugstores, supermarkets, and online stores. 

At-home COVID-19 tests are designed to find tiny parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. These parts are called antigens. Rapid at-home antigen tests usually give you results in about 15 minutes. If your test is positive, it's very likely you have the virus. 

It's important to know that these tests can sometimes give a false negative, meaning you could test negative but still have the virus. However, because these tests are quick and rarely give a false positive, they can be very useful if used correctly.

<h2>Do They Work Against New COVID Variants? </h2>

At-home COVID tests should work against newer versions of the virus, “The antigen, that the at-home tests look for has remained fairly stable even as the virus mutates and new strains of COVID develop”. Harvard Health experts explain that the part of the virus these tests look for stays pretty much the same, even as the virus changes. Research generally shows that these antigen tests are good at finding different COVID-19 variants. 

In a comparative study published in the Microbiology Spectrum journals, researchers looked at 2 types of tests PCR test and rapid antigen tests (Ag-RDTs). They used FIA which is the flourescence immunoassay, a simple and rapid technique that is used to measure compounds like drugs, hormones and proteins and LFIA which is lateral flow immunoassay, that is also used to detect proteins, haptens (a type of molecules), nucleic acids etc. Both rapid tests were 100% accurate at finding the virus when there was a lot of virus in the sample. However, their ability to find the virus dropped to around 30% when there was only a small amount of virus present. 

This study confirms that rapid antigen tests (especially FIA and LFIA) work almost as well as RT-PCR tests for finding SARS-CoV-2. The FIA test was particularly good for people who had the virus but no symptoms. Both rapid tests agreed strongly with the gold standard RT-PCR results. 

Harvard Health experts advise using an at-home COVID test if you have respiratory symptoms like a cough, fever, or runny nose. She also suggests testing if you've been around someone with COVID-19, or if you're going to be near elderly people or those with weak immune systems who could get very sick from the virus. 

In general, these tests are most effective when you have symptoms. One study found that certain at-home tests caught almost 90% of COVID cases in people with symptoms, but only about half of cases in people who had the virus but no symptoms. 

If your test is positive, it means you have the virus. If it is negative, health authorities recommend taking another test 48 hours later to reduce the chance of a false negative. 

If you have respiratory symptoms, these combination tests are an easy way to find out if you have the flu, COVID-19, or both, without needing to visit a doctor's office. You can also help public health efforts by reporting your test result (whether it's positive or negative) online. 

The best way to protect yourself from both COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccinated for both. Vaccines lower your risk of getting sick and developing serious complications if you do catch the viruses. 

Health Conditions A-Z

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covid

Covid-19

Covid-19 at home test kits

Are Covid-19 At-Home Tests Useful

do At-Home COVID Tests Work?

How accurate are At-Home COVID Tests

Can At-Home COVID Tests Detect new strains

At-Home COVID Tests Kits

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In many ways COVID-19 has changed the way medicine and treatments work. During peak COVID wave, at-home test kits became a more accepted part of medical care for people, as stepping outside and visiting hospitals could also cause infection. As new strains of COVID keep mutating, many people have brought up concerns regarding the effectiveness of the at-home tests. The concern is regarding the fact that these at-home test kits are equipped to diagnose the new strains or are there certain strains that can go undetected. How At-Home COVID Tests Work? If you start feeling sick with symptoms like a cough, fever, or runny nose, you might worry if it's COVID-19. A simple way to check is by using an at-home COVID-19 test. You can easily find these tests at drugstores, supermarkets, and online stores. At-home COVID-19 tests are designed to find tiny parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. These parts are called antigens. Rapid at-home antigen tests usually give you results in about 15 minutes. If your test is positive, it's very likely you have the virus. It's important to know that these tests can sometimes give a false negative, meaning you could test negative but still have the virus. However, because these tests are quick and rarely give a false positive, they can be very useful if used correctly. Do They Work Against New COVID Variants? At-home COVID tests should work against newer versions of the virus, “The antigen, that the at-home tests look for has remained fairly stable even as the virus mutates and new strains of COVID develop”. Harvard Health experts explain that the part of the virus these tests look for stays pretty much the same, even as the virus changes. Research generally shows that these antigen tests are good at finding different COVID-19 variants. In a comparative study published in the Microbiology Spectrum journals, researchers looked at 2 types of tests PCR test and rapid antigen tests (Ag-RDTs). They used FIA which is the flourescence immunoassay, a simple and rapid technique that is used to measure compounds like drugs, hormones and proteins and LFIA which is lateral flow immunoassay, that is also used to detect proteins, haptens (a type of molecules), nucleic acids etc. Both rapid tests were 100% accurate at finding the virus when there was a lot of virus in the sample. However, their ability to find the virus dropped to around 30% when there was only a small amount of virus present. This study confirms that rapid antigen tests (especially FIA and LFIA) work almost as well as RT-PCR tests for finding SARS-CoV-2. The FIA test was particularly good for people who had the virus but no symptoms. Both rapid tests agreed strongly with the gold standard RT-PCR results. When to Test for COVID? Harvard Health experts advise using an at-home COVID test if you have respiratory symptoms like a cough, fever, or runny nose. She also suggests testing if you've been around someone with COVID-19, or if you're going to be near elderly people or those with weak immune systems who could get very sick from the virus. In general, these tests are most effective when you have symptoms. One study found that certain at-home tests caught almost 90% of COVID cases in people with symptoms, but only about half of cases in people who had the virus but no symptoms. If your test is positive, it means you have the virus. If it is negative, health authorities recommend taking another test 48 hours later to reduce the chance of a false negative. If you have respiratory symptoms, these combination tests are an easy way to find out if you have the flu, COVID-19, or both, without needing to visit a doctor's office. You can also help public health efforts by reporting your test result (whether it's positive or negative) online. The best way to protect yourself from both COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccinated for both. Vaccines lower your risk of getting sick and developing serious complications if you do catch the viruses. 

do covid-19 at-home tests detect the new variants?

Tanya Dutt

With Active Screenings Detecting Colon Cancer Early In Young Adults—Here’s How to Check Your Risk

Lung Cancer Prognosis In Women Are Not The Same As Men - Why Are Doctors Are Still Missing The Signs?

lung cancer prognosis in women are not the same as men - why are doctors are still missing the signs?

Low Grade Prostate Cancer Could Be Increasing Health Risks By 30%

low grade prostate cancer could be increasing health risks by 30%

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

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

More Heat, More Hospital Visits: Climate Change’s Growing Toll On Californians

more heat, more hospital visits: climate change’s growing toll on californians

Over the past few years, doctors and researchers have noticed a clear pattern: more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer—those under 50. On the surface, some of this surge can be credited to increased screening, especially following guideline updates that lowered the recommended starting age from 50 to 45. But deeper beneath those screening numbers lies a troubling reality: diagnoses among truly younger adults aren’t solely due to being screened earlier. That means we’re facing a bigger shift, one that demands fresh solutions.

In 2018, the American <span>Cancer</span> Society recommended colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45—five years earlier than before. In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force followed suit. Unsurprisingly, this led to a jump in early-stage diagnoses among 45-to-49-year-olds.

ACS data published in JAMA shows a steady increase in screening rates: from 20.8% in 2019 and 19.7% in 2021, rising to 33.7% in 2023 among that age group. A second ACS-led study tracked early-stage diagnosis rates—from 9.4 cases per 100,000 in 2019, to 11.7 in 2021, then 17.5 in 2022. That’s a 50% relative increase between 2021 and 2022. Experts note this trend largely reflects held-back cases being detected earlier thanks to broader testing.

But that doesn’t chalk up the entire story. Colon and rectal cancers have been increasing steadily in younger adults—those under 45—for decades. This early-onset rise began in the mid-1990s and includes late-stage diagnoses—not just early detection.

Doctors stress that while the decline in age recommendations helped some, it doesn’t explain the persistent rise in younger adults. In fact, research suggests annual case increases of 2–2.6% have occurred since 2012 among those under 50. In the 20–39 age group, incidence has been rising by around 1.6% per year since 2004.

More than 20% of colorectal cancer cases now occur in adults under 55—double the rate from the mid-1990s. Alarmingly, this early-onset trend is contributing to colorectal cancer becoming the leading cause of cancer death among younger men and the second-leading cause among younger women. 

These are not always lifestyle-driven cases. Many patients are young, active, and with no known family history. As clinicians, many have expressed how unsettling it is to see so many seemingly healthy people presenting with aggressive tumors—and often at advanced stages. 

<h2>What Might Be Driving This Worrisome Surge?</h2>

Researchers are testing multiple theories—but none yet fully explain the rise:

Gut microbe toxins such as colibactin, produced by certain E. coli, are drawing attention. These toxins leave a specific DNA mutation fingerprint in early-onset tumors—over three times more common compared to cancers in older patients. Some studies suggest 15% of early-onset cases involve colibactin-driven mutations.

Diet- and lifestyle-related risks remain central: obesity, processed meats, low-fiber diets, sedentary behavior, refined sugar, insufficient sleep, and environmental pollutants. One prominent study links higher birth and adolescent BMI with increased colon cancer risk later in life. Even every additional kilogram at birth above normal is tied to 9% higher colorectal cancer risk. 

Other suspected contributors include microplastics, antibiotic use, and artificial light exposure, although more conclusive evidence is pending. 

<h2>Symptoms You Should Never Ignore</h2>

Crucial to stopping this trend early is awareness. Here’s what to watch for—and not dismiss, even if you’re under 45:

<ul><li>Rectal bleeding</li><li>Persistent abdominal pain or cramping</li><li>Changes in bowel habits or stool shape</li><li>Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes</li></ul>

Jessica Star of ACS—lead author on both new JAMA papers—warns, more than half of cases in younger adults occurred in those not yet eligible for screening. So symptoms matter, regardless of age. If you're dismissed with a benign diagnosis like hemorrhoids, consider a second opinion. 

Screening matters. Most colorectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps, and removing these early saves lives. Current recommended options include:

<ul><li>Annual or triennial stool-based fecal tests</li><li>Colonoscopy every 10 years</li><li>Virtual colonoscopy every five years</li><li>Sigmoidoscopy every five years</li></ul>

Promising new research shows that mailing stool test kits directly to eligible adults dramatically increases completed screenings—even more than simply offering choice. Yet, screening is still underused: more than 1 in 3 adults aged 45 and older report not getting screened as recommended. To reduce personal risk:

<ul><li>Maintain healthy body weight and regular physical activity</li><li>Cut back on red and processed meats, refined sugars, and ultraprocessed foods</li><li>Boost fiber intake through plant-based nutrition</li><li>Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol</li><li>Stay alert to symptoms and seek screening or evaluation promptly when indicated</li></ul>

If you’re under 50—or even nearing that threshold—understand this: colorectal cancer is no longer just a disease of older adults. While earlier screening through age-lowering guidelines has helped catch many early-stage cancers in 45–49-year-olds, it doesn’t address the underlying, persistent rise in true early-onset cancer.

The surge among younger adults signals something deeper—and possibly preventable—but only if we tackle it strategically. That means screening more women and men at the right age, investing in research, and making early testing easier and more equitable.

As expert researchers remind us, we’re not merely diagnosing more cancers—we’re getting better at catching them earlier. But to save more lives, identify root causes, and reverse these trends, we must remain proactive. Not just for our generation—but for all who follow.

cancer

colon cancer in young adults

early onset colorectal cancer

colon cancer symptoms

colorectal cancer screening age

colonoscopy for young adults

colon cancer risk factors

rising colon cancer cases

Over the past few years, doctors and researchers have noticed a clear pattern: more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer—those under 50. On the surface, some of this surge can be credited to increased screening, especially following guideline updates that lowered the recommended starting age from 50 to 45. But deeper beneath those screening numbers lies a troubling reality: diagnoses among truly younger adults aren’t solely due to being screened earlier. That means we’re facing a bigger shift, one that demands fresh solutions.In 2018, the American Cancer Society recommended colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45—five years earlier than before. In 2021, the US Preventive Services Task Force followed suit. Unsurprisingly, this led to a jump in early-stage diagnoses among 45-to-49-year-olds.ACS data published in JAMA shows a steady increase in screening rates: from 20.8% in 2019 and 19.7% in 2021, rising to 33.7% in 2023 among that age group. A second ACS-led study tracked early-stage diagnosis rates—from 9.4 cases per 100,000 in 2019, to 11.7 in 2021, then 17.5 in 2022. That’s a 50% relative increase between 2021 and 2022. Experts note this trend largely reflects held-back cases being detected earlier thanks to broader testing.But that doesn’t chalk up the entire story. Colon and rectal cancers have been increasing steadily in younger adults—those under 45—for decades. This early-onset rise began in the mid-1990s and includes late-stage diagnoses—not just early detection.Who Is Getting Diagnosed?Doctors stress that while the decline in age recommendations helped some, it doesn’t explain the persistent rise in younger adults. In fact, research suggests annual case increases of 2–2.6% have occurred since 2012 among those under 50. In the 20–39 age group, incidence has been rising by around 1.6% per year since 2004.More than 20% of colorectal cancer cases now occur in adults under 55—double the rate from the mid-1990s. Alarmingly, this early-onset trend is contributing to colorectal cancer becoming the leading cause of cancer death among younger men and the second-leading cause among younger women. These are not always lifestyle-driven cases. Many patients are young, active, and with no known family history. As clinicians, many have expressed how unsettling it is to see so many seemingly healthy people presenting with aggressive tumors—and often at advanced stages. What Might Be Driving This Worrisome Surge?Researchers are testing multiple theories—but none yet fully explain the rise:Gut microbe toxins such as colibactin, produced by certain E. coli, are drawing attention. These toxins leave a specific DNA mutation fingerprint in early-onset tumors—over three times more common compared to cancers in older patients. Some studies suggest 15% of early-onset cases involve colibactin-driven mutations.Diet- and lifestyle-related risks remain central: obesity, processed meats, low-fiber diets, sedentary behavior, refined sugar, insufficient sleep, and environmental pollutants. One prominent study links higher birth and adolescent BMI with increased colon cancer risk later in life. Even every additional kilogram at birth above normal is tied to 9% higher colorectal cancer risk. Other suspected contributors include microplastics, antibiotic use, and artificial light exposure, although more conclusive evidence is pending. Symptoms You Should Never IgnoreCrucial to stopping this trend early is awareness. Here’s what to watch for—and not dismiss, even if you’re under 45:Rectal bleedingPersistent abdominal pain or crampingChanges in bowel habits or stool shapeUnexplained weight loss or appetite changesJessica Star of ACS—lead author on both new JAMA papers—warns, more than half of cases in younger adults occurred in those not yet eligible for screening. So symptoms matter, regardless of age. If you're dismissed with a benign diagnosis like hemorrhoids, consider a second opinion. How to Lower Your Risk?Screening matters. Most colorectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps, and removing these early saves lives. Current recommended options include:Annual or triennial stool-based fecal testsColonoscopy every 10 yearsVirtual colonoscopy every five yearsSigmoidoscopy every five yearsPromising new research shows that mailing stool test kits directly to eligible adults dramatically increases completed screenings—even more than simply offering choice. Yet, screening is still underused: more than 1 in 3 adults aged 45 and older report not getting screened as recommended. To reduce personal risk:Maintain healthy body weight and regular physical activityCut back on red and processed meats, refined sugars, and ultraprocessed foodsBoost fiber intake through plant-based nutritionAvoid tobacco and limit alcoholStay alert to symptoms and seek screening or evaluation promptly when indicatedIf you’re under 50—or even nearing that threshold—understand this: colorectal cancer is no longer just a disease of older adults. While earlier screening through age-lowering guidelines has helped catch many early-stage cancers in 45–49-year-olds, it doesn’t address the underlying, persistent rise in true early-onset cancer.The surge among younger adults signals something deeper—and possibly preventable—but only if we tackle it strategically. That means screening more women and men at the right age, investing in research, and making early testing easier and more equitable.As expert researchers remind us, we’re not merely diagnosing more cancers—we’re getting better at catching them earlier. But to save more lives, identify root causes, and reverse these trends, we must remain proactive. Not just for our generation—but for all who follow.

with active screenings detecting colon cancer early in young adults—here’s how to check your risk

Health News

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Loni Anderson Dies Day Before Her 80th Birthday: Remembering Her Crusade Against COPD

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One of the most common cancers in the world, it is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the world. It accounts for the highest mortality rates among men and women. However, this has become a rising issue among women. A 2014 study published in the Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery journal explained that historically <span>lung cancer</span> was mainly studied in men because it was very rare in women. However, as social habits changed and more women started smoking, the number of lung cancer cases in women increased. They mentioned that lung cancer often behaves differently in women than it does in men, especially in non-smokers. This review looks at these differences, including risk factors, how the disease develops, and treatment options. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Lung Cancer in Women</span> </h2>

In the United States, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the top cause of cancer-related death. Here are some important statistics from 2012: 

<ul><li>There were an estimated 109,690 new diagnoses in women.</li><li>Lung cancer caused an estimated 72,590 deaths in women, which was more than the number of deaths from breast and colon cancer combined.</li><li>The 5-year survival rate for women is about 18%, which is slightly better than the 14% rate for men, but it is still very low.</li><li>Globally, lung cancer cases and deaths in women are still on the rise, especially in countries where more women are starting to smoke.</li></ul>

<h2>What Are Some Risk Factors Other Than Smoking? </h2>

Smoking is still the biggest cause of lung cancer in women, responsible for 80-90% of cases. However, a significant number of women who get lung cancer have never smoked. 

<ul><li>Women married to men who smoke have a 25-29% higher risk of getting lung cancer.</li><li>Burning cooking oil or other fuels indoors in areas with poor airflow, especially in developing countries, is a major risk factor.</li><li>A family history of lung cancer increases a woman's risk more than a man's.</li><li>Hormones like estrogen may play a role in the development of lung cancer.</li><li> Studies in some women, particularly in East Asia, have linked the human papillomavirus (HPV) to lung cancer.</li></ul>

<h2>What Are Some Challenges Women Face With <span rel="noindex">Lung Cancer Diagnosis</span>? </h2>

According to Lungevity, women often face delays and hurdles in getting a lung cancer diagnosis, which can worsen their chances of survival. 

Women are less likely to seek help for early symptoms and can experience longer waiting times between initial doctor visits and a final diagnosis. This can allow the disease to progress before treatment even begins.

Many women are not offered lung cancer screening. A study found that women of color who are eligible for screening are six times less likely to be offered it than their male counterparts. 

Even with recent updates to screening guidelines in the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, which now include people aged 50 and older and with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years, many women still don't qualify. This is a major issue because a large number of women with lung cancer have a limited smoking history, which means they are often overlooked. 

<h2>What Other Ways Does Lung Cancer Affect Women </h2>

The impact of lung cancer on a woman's well-being is often ignored, yet research shows it's a significant burden. 

Women with lung cancer have higher rates of depression and anxiety than men. This stress is often made worse by the stigma of the disease, with many women reporting judgmental comments about smoking, regardless of whether they have a smoking history. 

Sexual health is often an overlooked part of cancer care for women. A study of 249 women with lung cancer found that 77% experienced moderate to severe sexual dysfunction. The women reported issues like fatigue and shortness of breath during intimacy, as well as vaginal dryness and pain. 

<h2>Lack of Women in Clinical Trials </h2>

A long-standing problem in healthcare is the low number of women in clinical trials. This makes it difficult to know how effective a treatment is for women specifically. 

Women make up only 40% of participants in clinical trials for diseases that affect them, like cancer. For non-small cell lung cancer, this number has not changed much over the past two decades. 

Women face extra challenges in participating in trials, such as being primary caregivers, which limits their time. There are also gender biases from doctors who may assume women are less interested in research. 

The lack of female representation is a safety issue. One study found that women were 25% more likely to have severe side effects from cancer treatments, but another study found that they were less likely to report these issues. 

lung cancer

lung cancer diagnosis

psychological distress women

Lung Cancer Prognosis In Women

Lung Cancer in Women

lung cancer Risk Factors

One of the most common cancers in the world, it is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in the world. It accounts for the highest mortality rates among men and women. However, this has become a rising issue among women. A 2014 study published in the Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery journal explained that historically lung cancer was mainly studied in men because it was very rare in women. However, as social habits changed and more women started smoking, the number of lung cancer cases in women increased. They mentioned that lung cancer often behaves differently in women than it does in men, especially in non-smokers. This review looks at these differences, including risk factors, how the disease develops, and treatment options. Lung Cancer in Women In the United States, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the top cause of cancer-related death. Here are some important statistics from 2012: There were an estimated 109,690 new diagnoses in women.Lung cancer caused an estimated 72,590 deaths in women, which was more than the number of deaths from breast and colon cancer combined.The 5-year survival rate for women is about 18%, which is slightly better than the 14% rate for men, but it is still very low.Globally, lung cancer cases and deaths in women are still on the rise, especially in countries where more women are starting to smoke.What Are Some Risk Factors Other Than Smoking? Smoking is still the biggest cause of lung cancer in women, responsible for 80-90% of cases. However, a significant number of women who get lung cancer have never smoked. Women married to men who smoke have a 25-29% higher risk of getting lung cancer.Burning cooking oil or other fuels indoors in areas with poor airflow, especially in developing countries, is a major risk factor.A family history of lung cancer increases a woman's risk more than a man's.Hormones like estrogen may play a role in the development of lung cancer. Studies in some women, particularly in East Asia, have linked the human papillomavirus (HPV) to lung cancer.What Are Some Challenges Women Face With Lung Cancer Diagnosis? According to Lungevity, women often face delays and hurdles in getting a lung cancer diagnosis, which can worsen their chances of survival. Diagnosis Delays Women are less likely to seek help for early symptoms and can experience longer waiting times between initial doctor visits and a final diagnosis. This can allow the disease to progress before treatment even begins. Lack of Screening Many women are not offered lung cancer screening. A study found that women of color who are eligible for screening are six times less likely to be offered it than their male counterparts. Outdated Rules Even with recent updates to screening guidelines in the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, which now include people aged 50 and older and with a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years, many women still don't qualify. This is a major issue because a large number of women with lung cancer have a limited smoking history, which means they are often overlooked. What Other Ways Does Lung Cancer Affect Women The impact of lung cancer on a woman's well-being is often ignored, yet research shows it's a significant burden. Psychological Distress Women with lung cancer have higher rates of depression and anxiety than men. This stress is often made worse by the stigma of the disease, with many women reporting judgmental comments about smoking, regardless of whether they have a smoking history. Sexual Health Sexual health is often an overlooked part of cancer care for women. A study of 249 women with lung cancer found that 77% experienced moderate to severe sexual dysfunction. The women reported issues like fatigue and shortness of breath during intimacy, as well as vaginal dryness and pain. Lack of Women in Clinical Trials A long-standing problem in healthcare is the low number of women in clinical trials. This makes it difficult to know how effective a treatment is for women specifically. Low Participation Women make up only 40% of participants in clinical trials for diseases that affect them, like cancer. For non-small cell lung cancer, this number has not changed much over the past two decades. Unique Barriers Women face extra challenges in participating in trials, such as being primary caregivers, which limits their time. There are also gender biases from doctors who may assume women are less interested in research. Safety Concerns The lack of female representation is a safety issue. One study found that women were 25% more likely to have severe side effects from cancer treatments, but another study found that they were less likely to report these issues. 

Ishita Roy

Nutrition

Matcha Might Not Be 'The Best Match' For Your Health Due To This One Lesser-Known Side Effect

matcha might not be 'the best match' for your health due to this one lesser-known side effect

About 84% IT Employees Are Suffering With Fatty Liver Disease - Why Screenings Are Necessary For Corporate Workers

about 84% it employees are suffering with fatty liver disease - why screenings are necessary for corporate workers

As <span>climate change</span> accelerates, California is bracing for an alarming increase in emergency room (ER) visits, mainly due to rising daily temperatures, according to a new study by researchers from UC San Diego and Stanford University.

While the warming trend may result in fewer deaths from extreme cold, the study warns that this benefit will be overshadowed by a surge in heat-related health issues requiring emergency care.

<h4>Warmer Weather Means More ER Visits</h4>

“Heat can harm health even when it doesn’t kill,” explained Carlos Gould, lead author of the study and assistant professor of public health at UC San Diego. “Warmer temperatures were consistently associated with more trips to the emergency department, so studies and planning that only consider mortality miss a big slice of the burden.”

Researchers analyzed health and temperature data across California from 2006 to 2017. By projecting these trends to 2050, they estimated a sharp increase in emergency department visits as hot days become more frequent. While the study did note a potential 53,500 fewer deaths due to milder winters, this does not compensate for the wave of new ER visits tied to heat-related health issues.

Contrary to popular belief, heatstroke won’t be the only culprit driving people to the ER. “We often think about only the most extreme health impacts of heat waves: deaths,” said co-author Alexandra Heaney, also from UCSD. “This work is showing that many things we may not think about being sensitive to extreme heat are, like poisonings, endocrine disorders, injuries, and digestive issues.”

Mental health problems and physical injuries are expected to increase, particularly on hotter days. Heat can exacerbate existing medical conditions, trigger accidents, and even affect medication absorption and metabolism, making everyday health management more complicated.

<h4>Younger People May Suffer More from Heat</h4>

The study also found that different age groups will face different types of risks. “Age plays a critical role in shaping health risks from temperatures,” said Gould. “Older adults are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, whereas younger adults and children are more affected by heat.”

This means that as heat waves increase, younger populations may start seeing more ER trips for conditions that weren't previously associated with climate risks, creating an evolving and unpredictable healthcare challenge.

<h4>An Urgent Need for Planning and Collaboration</h4>

Experts involved in the study are calling for hospitals, insurance providers, and public health agencies to act now. Marshall Burke, a co-author and associate professor at Stanford University, emphasized that targeted communication and preparation are critical.

“Understanding who is affected, how, and at what temperatures is critical for planning appropriate responses to protect health,” Burke said. “This is true with or without climate change, but a warming climate makes it more important and alters who is exposed to what.”

With California already battling issues like drought, wildfires, and poor air quality, this looming healthcare burden adds another layer of urgency to climate preparedness efforts.

The findings were published on July 30 in the journal Science Advances. As the climate continues to shift, healthcare systems across the U.S, and especially in heat-prone states like California, will need to brace for a hotter, more hazardous future.

heat wave

health and wellness

ER visit

climate change

us health

california heat wave

As climate change accelerates, California is bracing for an alarming increase in emergency room (ER) visits, mainly due to rising daily temperatures, according to a new study by researchers from UC San Diego and Stanford University.While the warming trend may result in fewer deaths from extreme cold, the study warns that this benefit will be overshadowed by a surge in heat-related health issues requiring emergency care.Warmer Weather Means More ER Visits“Heat can harm health even when it doesn’t kill,” explained Carlos Gould, lead author of the study and assistant professor of public health at UC San Diego. “Warmer temperatures were consistently associated with more trips to the emergency department, so studies and planning that only consider mortality miss a big slice of the burden.”Researchers analyzed health and temperature data across California from 2006 to 2017. By projecting these trends to 2050, they estimated a sharp increase in emergency department visits as hot days become more frequent. While the study did note a potential 53,500 fewer deaths due to milder winters, this does not compensate for the wave of new ER visits tied to heat-related health issues.It’s Not Just HeatstrokeContrary to popular belief, heatstroke won’t be the only culprit driving people to the ER. “We often think about only the most extreme health impacts of heat waves: deaths,” said co-author Alexandra Heaney, also from UCSD. “This work is showing that many things we may not think about being sensitive to extreme heat are, like poisonings, endocrine disorders, injuries, and digestive issues.”Mental health problems and physical injuries are expected to increase, particularly on hotter days. Heat can exacerbate existing medical conditions, trigger accidents, and even affect medication absorption and metabolism, making everyday health management more complicated.Younger People May Suffer More from HeatThe study also found that different age groups will face different types of risks. “Age plays a critical role in shaping health risks from temperatures,” said Gould. “Older adults are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, whereas younger adults and children are more affected by heat.”This means that as heat waves increase, younger populations may start seeing more ER trips for conditions that weren't previously associated with climate risks, creating an evolving and unpredictable healthcare challenge.An Urgent Need for Planning and CollaborationExperts involved in the study are calling for hospitals, insurance providers, and public health agencies to act now. Marshall Burke, a co-author and associate professor at Stanford University, emphasized that targeted communication and preparation are critical.“Understanding who is affected, how, and at what temperatures is critical for planning appropriate responses to protect health,” Burke said. “This is true with or without climate change, but a warming climate makes it more important and alters who is exposed to what.”With California already battling issues like drought, wildfires, and poor air quality, this looming healthcare burden adds another layer of urgency to climate preparedness efforts.The findings were published on July 30 in the journal Science Advances. As the climate continues to shift, healthcare systems across the U.S, and especially in heat-prone states like California, will need to brace for a hotter, more hazardous future.

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