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.

Often, caught up in the worries of paying your bills and other stress, we forget to prioritize our health. How often have you ignored a cough or forgotten to take your vitamins for the day? Although bad things and surprising issues do pop up, we don’t consider them an issue until it affects us. It was the same for this young flight attendant, who never knew that a simple cough could lead to a shocking diagnosis, possibly saving his life.

Lingering Cough and a Search for Answers

In 2021, Warren developed a cough that came and went. With the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing, he was regularly tested for his job, with all results coming back negative. When the cough persisted, he visited his doctor, who initially prescribed antihistamines and then omeprazole, suspecting acid reflux.

Wanting more answers, Warren had a chest X-ray and a CT scan. The scans eventually revealed an abnormality in one of his lungs, leading to surgery in February 2022. It was then that he received the devastating diagnosis of Stage 3a lung cancer, which had spread to two of his lymph nodes.

From Treatment to Recovery

Warren's surgery was followed by several cycles of chemotherapy. He experienced severe side effects, including hair loss, constant fatigue, and sickness. After completing his treatment, Warren was signed off as fit to fly in January 2023, following a series of clear scans. He has since returned to work on long-haul flights and is enjoying running again, logging 15-20 miles a week.

Despite his recovery, Warren is candid about the ongoing mental health challenges. He plans to start counseling to manage his anxiety about the cancer returning and is committed to fundraising for organizations like Cancer Research UK and the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.

Lung Cancer Diagnosis – Why Is It A Big Cause Of Concern?

Being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, lung cancer has the highest mortality rates in both men and women, according to the World Health Organization. What’s even more concerning is that it is often diagnosed in the advanced stage, during which the treatment options available are limited.

Warren's story highlights that lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. He urges people to listen to their bodies and see a doctor if something doesn't feel right.

Early-stage lung cancer often has no obvious symptoms. However, you should be aware of a persistent cough that doesn't go away after three weeks or gets worse. Other potential signs include:

• Recurrent chest infections
• Chest pain when coughing
• Persistent breathlessness
• Unexplained fatigue or low energy
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss

What Follows A Lung Cancer Diagnosis?

According to the American Lung Association, it's important to be prepared for several key aspects of the journey. Here's what you can expect:

Be Your Own Advocate

Take charge of your healthcare decisions. Ask questions, do your research, and ensure your needs are met. A friend, family member, or care coordinator can also help you advocate.

Manage Emotional Changes

It is normal to experience a range of emotions. Find healthy ways to cope, like talking to friends and family, journaling, joining a support group, or seeking professional help.

Relationships May Shift

Be prepared for your relationships to change. Some may grow closer, others more distant. It's also normal to feel misunderstood or to have different expectations from others.

Embrace Lifestyle Changes

Making healthy lifestyle choices is crucial. Quitting smoking, eating nutritious food, staying physically active, and managing stress are all vital for your recovery and long-term health.

Prepare for Lasting Side Effects

Some side effects from treatment might linger. Discuss any ongoing symptoms with your doctor and ask about connecting with a palliative care specialist to help manage these effects and improve your quality of life.

Plan for Ongoing Checkups

Your care continues after treatment. Before your final appointment, get an "end-of-treatment summary" from your doctor that outlines your diagnosis, treatments, and future follow-up schedule.

That sudden tightness after washing your face, the redness that won’t calm down, or the stinging from a product you’ve used for years—those aren’t just random flare-ups. They’re signals. Quiet, persistent warnings from your skin barrier, your body’s frontline defense system.

Most people don’t even realize they’ve been slowly breaking it down. From over-cleansing to layering too many actives, modern skincare trends often leave the barrier confused, stripped, and vulnerable. But the good news? This protective layer is also incredibly responsive. When you treat it right, it bounces back—stronger, smoother, and more resilient than before.

“The skin barrier is your body’s natural shield, protecting against pollution, bacteria, and moisture loss,” says dermatologist Dr. Rupika Singh. “When it’s healthy, your skin looks and feels balanced. But when it’s damaged—often due to over-cleansing, too many actives, or skipping moisturizer—your skin can become dry, red, sensitive, or breakout-prone.”

What Is The Skin Barrier?

Your skin barrier lives in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of your skin, and it functions much like a brick wall. The "bricks" are made up of dead skin cells, while the "mortar" that holds them together consists of lipids—specifically fatty acids, ceramides, and cholesterol. These lipids are essential for maintaining the skin’s structure and integrity. Inside the cells, Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs) act like water magnets, pulling in and retaining moisture to keep the skin hydrated. This highly organized system isn’t just for structure—it plays a crucial role in protection.

A healthy barrier keeps out irritants, allergens, bacteria, and pollution, while locking in hydration and essential nutrients. When functioning properly, your skin feels smooth, resilient, and balanced. But when this barrier is compromised, your skin quickly begins to send warning signs like dryness, tightness, redness, or increased sensitivity.

How to Know If Your Skin Barrier Is Damaged?

Here’s the tricky part, the first clue your barrier is under stress might be subtle—just a little dehydration. But if ignored, this can spiral into:

• Persistent dryness and flakiness
• Tightness after cleansing
• Redness or inflammation
• Breakouts or rough texture
• Increased sensitivity to your go-to products

“Your skin doesn’t need more products—just smarter ones,” says Dr. Singh. “A resilient barrier means fewer flare-ups, faster recovery, and that healthy, glowing texture we’re all after.”

What Damaged Skin Barrier Looks Like?

While environmental stressors like UV radiation, air pollution, and extreme weather are well-known culprits in weakening the skin barrier, the real damage often begins much closer to home—right at your bathroom sink. Daily skincare habits, when not done mindfully, can erode your skin’s natural defenses over time.

Over-exfoliating, for instance, strips away protective oils that are essential for barrier function. Using harsh cleansers can disrupt your skin’s natural pH, making it more vulnerable to irritants. Skipping moisturizer allows precious water to escape through transepidermal water loss, leaving your skin dry and more prone to damage. Overusing potent actives like retinol, AHAs, or BHAs may seem like a fast track to glowing skin, but they can actually compromise healthy cell turnover if not balanced properly. Even less obvious factors—like emotional stress or lack of sleep—can trigger inflammation that silently breaks down your barrier from within.

How Long Does It Take to Repair Your Skin Barrier?

A healthy skin cycle typically lasts about 28 days, so with proper care, most skin barrier issues can start to improve within 2 to 4 weeks. That said, even a few days of barrier-friendly habits can bring relief from tightness and irritation but consistency is key. Think of barrier repair like physical rehab—it requires patience, the right tools, and a slow, methodical approach.

Step-by-Step Guide To Building A Protective Skin Barrier

1. Simplify and Reset

Dr. Singh advises starting by scaling back:

“The first step toward healing? Simplify your routine. Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser and reduce exfoliation to once or twice a week. Give your skin a break from strong actives like retinol or acids until it feels calmer.”

Stick to essentials: a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Once your skin stabilizes, you can slowly reintroduce actives.

2. Cleanse Gently

Use cleansers with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, which match your skin’s natural acidity. Cream and oil-based formulas tend to be less disruptive than foam cleansers. Always wash with lukewarm water and pat dry instead of rubbing.

3. Hydrate and Moisturize in Layers

Hydration is about more than just applying moisturizer. Start with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin. While skin is still damp, apply a nourishing moisturizer with barrier-building ingredients like:

• Ceramides
• Niacinamide
• Panthenol
• Squalane

Dr. Singh emphasizes, “A nourishing moisturizer, applied twice a day, helps restore hydration and comfort.”

4. Don't Skip Sunscreen—Ever

Even mild sun exposure silently chips away at your skin’s barrier integrity. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher helps prevent this, while antioxidants like vitamin C or E add an extra layer of defense against environmental stressors.

When your barrier is strong, your skin naturally fends off signs of premature aging, inflammation, and sensitivity. But when it’s weak?

• You’re more vulnerable to fine lines and wrinkles
• Inflammation triggers uneven skin tone
• Hydration loss makes skin look dull and tired

In other words, barrier health is the foundation of all good skincare. You can’t glow if your skin is busy trying to protect itself from further harm.

Most skin barrier issues are reversible. But you need to stay tuned in. If your skin suddenly feels off, flaky, or reacts to a product you’ve used for years, that’s your cue to reassess and recalibrate.

“So the next time your skin feels off, take it as a sign to slow down and tune in,” says Dr. Singh. “Often, what your skin really needs is less stress and more support—and that starts with protecting your barrier.”

Much like your gut or your immune system, your skin barrier is a living, breathing part of your health. Respect it, support it, and respond when it speaks up.

With a few thoughtful changes and a barrier-first mindset, you can transform not just how your skin looks, but how it behaves—resilient, calm, and confident in the face of whatever the world throws at it.

Dr. Rupika Singh is a Dermatologist and Founder at Akiya Aesthetics in India

Plastic is everywhere. On mountaintops, in oceans, inside our bodies, and according to a new expert review published in The Lancet, it is silently wreaking havoc on human health from the womb to old age.

The review, first reported by The Guardian, calls the global surge in plastic production and pollution a full-blown “plastics crisis,” attributing at least $1.5 trillion a year in health-related damages to it.

The problem isn't just environmental, it’s deeply human.

The report warns of long-term consequences, ranging from infertility and birth defects to heart attacks and strokes. Vulnerable groups, especially infants and children, bear the brunt of the burden. “The impacts fall most heavily on vulnerable populations,” said Prof. Philip Landrigan, a paediatrician and epidemiologist at Boston College in the US, and the report’s lead author. “It is incumbent on us to act in response.”

A Rapidly Escalating Threat

Plastic production has skyrocketed, by more than 200 times since 1950, and if current trends continue, it's expected to almost triple again by 2060, exceeding one billion tonnes annually. While plastics have undeniable value in medicine and technology, the most explosive growth has been in single-use items: plastic bottles, food packaging, and disposable cutlery. These are the very things that crowd our landfills, rivers, and oceans.

Less than 10% of all plastic is recycled. The rest? It seeps into every corner of our ecosystem—from the deepest ocean trench to the peak of Mount Everest. In total, an estimated 8 billion tonnes of plastic waste now pollute the planet.

Harm at Every Stage: From Extraction to Disposal

What makes this crisis uniquely harmful is that plastics pose risks at every stage of their life cycle. They're derived almost entirely from fossil fuels: oil, gas, and coal, whose extraction and processing pollute air and water and fuel the climate crisis. Manufacturing plastic releases about 2 billion tonnes of CO₂ annually, more than Russia's total emissions.

Once produced, plastics expose people to thousands of chemicals, over 16,000, including flame retardants, fillers, and stabilizers. Many are toxic, and worryingly, many more haven’t even been fully studied. The lack of transparency from manufacturers makes it difficult to know exactly what we’re being exposed to.

As plastics degrade, they break down into micro- and nano-plastics, minuscule particles that can infiltrate nearly every organ of the human body. These particles have been detected in blood, placentas, breast milk, semen, and even brain tissue. Though long-term health effects are still being researched, early links suggest increased risks of strokes, heart attacks, and cancer.

A Crisis Hidden in Plain Sight

In many ways, plastic has become too familiar to question. Its pervasiveness masks its cost. While it's often treated as a cheap material, the true cost, once health impacts are accounted for, is staggering. The report notes that just three plastic chemicals (PBDE, BPA, and DEHP) are responsible for $1.5 trillion in damages annually across 38 countries.

The danger also extends to the environment in unexpected ways. Discarded plastics become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, potentially accelerating the spread of diseases like dengue and malaria.

A Turning Point: Can the World Act?

This latest report comes ahead of the sixth and likely final round of UN treaty negotiations aimed at creating a legally binding global agreement to address the plastics crisis. Over 100 countries support capping plastic production, while petrostates, particularly Saudi Arabia, and powerful industry lobbyists are pushing back, insisting that the focus should be on recycling, reported the Guardian.

But the report is clear: "The world cannot recycle its way out of the plastic pollution crisis."

Margaret Spring, a co-author and senior legal expert, said this analysis marks the beginning of a series of reports that will track plastic’s impact on human and planetary health. “These reports will offer decision-makers a robust and independent data source,” she said, “to inform the development of effective policies.”

As the world waits for action, the message from the medical and scientific community is becoming increasingly urgent: we cannot afford to ignore the cost of plastic any longer.