Often solutions for long standing issues come from the most unexpected places. A new study has found that dogs could detect Parkinson's early, which not only improves the results of treatment. We have seen many instances of animals helping people with chronic conditions navigate their daily lives with the help of a service dog whether it is a seeing eye dog, a service dog for people with fainting or heart conditions etc.

Dogs' amazing sense of smell has always been a big help to people. They've been used for everything from finding criminals to sniffing out hidden human remains and illegal drugs. Their powerful noses have even helped detect diseases like prostate cancer, malaria, and COVID-19. Now, it looks like their incredible sense of smell can also pick up on problems with the brain and nervous system.

Canines Detect Parkinson's Disease

A new study published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease reveals that dogs can be trained to detect Parkinson's disease solely through their sense of smell. Researchers found that two specially trained canines demonstrated high accuracy in identifying individuals with confirmed Parkinson's based on skin swabs.

When the dogs were given samples of skin swabs, they were able to correctly identify people with confirmed Parkinson's disease about 80% of the time. What's even more impressive is that they were right about 98% of the time when they said someone didn't have Parkinson's. The study also noted that the dogs could still find Parkinson's even if the person had other health issues. This shows how incredibly precise their sense of smell is.

Science Behind the Scent

Parkinson's disease is a condition that gets worse over time, making it harder for people to move. It's caused by the death or damage of brain cells that produce a chemical called dopamine. An early sign of this disease is when the skin produces too much sebum, an oily substance. Scientists thought this extra sebum might have a unique smell that dogs could be trained to recognize, allowing them to detect the disease.

For the study, five dogs were initially trained to smell for Parkinson's. However, only a Golden Retriever named Bumper and a Black Lab named Peanut proved to be skilled enough. They trained for weeks using over 200 samples from people with Parkinson's and healthy individuals. The dogs were rewarded for every correct identification, either by finding a Parkinson's sample or ignoring a healthy one.

In the final tests, called "double-blind testing," even the researchers didn't know which samples belonged to whom—only a computer did. This ensured the results were fair. Both Bumper and Peanut were highly accurate at finding the disease during these tests.

Implications for Early Diagnosis

Researchers suggest that using dogs could lead to a fast, pain-free, and affordable way to find Parkinson's disease.

This study emphasizes the importance of these findings because there's currently no early test for the disease. Symptoms can begin up to 20 years before they become obvious enough for a diagnosis. The research shows that an early diagnosis is critical because starting treatment sooner could help slow the disease's progression and reduce the intensity of symptoms. Ultimately, this research suggests that dogs could play a major role in early detection and better management of Parkinson's.

Rene Kirby, a man who lived life on his own terms despite being born with a severe form of spina bifida, died on July 11 at the University of Vermont Medical Center. He was 70.

Kirby, known for his vibrant personality, iron will, and roles in films like Shallow Hal, passed away after two months of hospitalization due to infections and complications related to his esophagus, kidneys, and bladder, according to his brother, Jon Kirby.

Born with more than a foot of his lower spine missing and a spine detached from his pelvis, Rene never developed legs that could bear weight. He couldn’t bend his knees and was, as his brother described, “L-shaped.” Yet Rene never saw himself as disabled.

“Walking on my hands is just all I’ve ever known,” he once said. “I’ve never thought of myself as disabled.”

A Life of Movement Without Legs

Rene walked on his hands, skied, canoed, remodeled houses, and won state-level gymnastics competitions in high school. He navigated Burlington on a three-wheeled, hand-cranked bike built for him when he was 10. That bike served him for the rest of his life.

His mother rejected conventional medical approaches, such as braces or leg-stretching instruments, instead fostering independence from infancy. At nine months old, she placed his bottle just out of reach so he would learn to crawl using his arms. By age one, he was walking on his hands.

In a 2008 Stuck in Vermont interview, he famously said he couldn’t stand self-pity. “Life’s too short to be doing that,” he remarked. He proudly called himself “a gimp without a wimp.”

Hollywood Came Calling

Kirby’s charm caught the attention of Hollywood director Peter Farrelly in 1999 during a chance meeting at a Burlington bar. Farrelly, in town filming Me, Myself & Irene, was instantly taken by Kirby’s humor and charisma. He later wrote a part specifically for him in Shallow Hal (2001), a film about seeing beyond physical appearances.

Kirby danced with Gwyneth Paltrow on crutches and shared scenes with Jack Black and Jason Alexander. “He epitomizes inner beauty,” Farrelly said at the time. Kirby also had a small role in the 2003 movie Stuck on You and appeared in an episode of HBO’s Carnivàle.

Despite his Hollywood stint, he remained grounded in Vermont. He worked at IBM for 20 years and enjoyed stock trading in recent years. He and his brother remodeled homes together, laying tile, installing insulation, and handling carpentry.

Living with Spina Bifida

Kirby was born with a severe form of spina bifida, a congenital condition where the spinal column fails to close completely during early pregnancy. In his case, it caused major deformities: undeveloped legs, a spine detached from the pelvis, and significant nerve damage.

Spina bifida is one of several neural tube defects and ranges in severity. Some people experience minimal symptoms, while others, like Kirby, face profound physical challenges. It often leads to complications with the bladder, kidneys, and other organs—as seen in the final months of Kirby’s life.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, people with spina bifida often live long lives, but with a wide range of medical needs and physical limitations. There is no cure, but with proper care and a strong support system, many lead fulfilling lives.

Kirby exemplified this possibility, surpassing what medical textbooks might have predicted for someone with his condition. He even beat throat cancer, though he lost his voice in the process.

What Kept him going? His motto, “You don’t have to stand up to stand out,” echoed the spirit he brought to every challenge.

What Causes Spina Bifida?

The exact cause of spina bifida remains unknown, but researchers believe it's the result of a combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors. One of the most well-known risk factors is a deficiency in folic acid (vitamin B9) during early pregnancy. This is why doctors advise women who are pregnant or planning to conceive to take folic acid supplements. Other risk factors include poorly controlled diabetes in the mother, the use of certain anti-seizure medications, and a family history of neural tube defects.

Different Types of Spina Bifida

There are four main types of spina bifida, ranging from mild to severe:

Spina Bifida Occulta: The mildest and most common form, often called "hidden" spina bifida. It usually causes no symptoms and may go unnoticed.

Closed Neural Tube Defects: These involve abnormalities of the spinal cord’s fat, bone, or membranes and can result in few or no symptoms, but sometimes lead to muscle weakness or bladder issues.

Meningocele: In this form, a sac of fluid protrudes through an opening in the baby’s back, but it does not contain the spinal cord. Surgical treatment is often successful.

Myelomeningocele: The most severe form, where the spinal cord and nerves develop outside the baby’s body and are contained in a sac. It typically causes paralysis and other serious disabilities.

Sjögren’s Syndrome is one of the most common yet misunderstood autoimmune disorders in the world today. It’s often brushed off as a “dry eye and dry mouth” condition, but what many don’t realize is that this chronic, systemic illness can severely affect multiple organs—sometimes leading to irreversible complications. With July 23 marking World Sjögren’s Day, experts are urging for more awareness, earlier diagnosis, and a patient-first approach to treatment.

World Sjögren’s Day is observed every year on July 23, to honor Dr. Henrik Sjögren—the Swedish ophthalmologist who first identified the condition in 1933. The day is not just symbolic. It’s a global movement to educate the public, highlight patient voices, and push for research and policy changes.

The 2025 theme “Awareness Through Research” puts the spotlight on how patients—when given the space to share their experiences—can drive scientific breakthroughs and better clinical outcomes.

What is Sjogren's Disease?

Sjögren’s Disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells—primarily the moisture-producing glands. Most commonly, this results in dry eyes and dry mouth, but Sjögren’s doesn’t stop there. It can also affect other parts of the body including the joints, lungs, kidneys, nerves, digestive system, and even the skin.

The condition is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late because its symptoms—like fatigue, burning eyes, or trouble swallowing—are frequently dismissed as signs of aging, stress, or dehydration. That delay in diagnosis can be dangerous, since Sjögren’s is also linked to a higher risk of lymphoma, a type of cancer.

It affects an estimated 4 million people in the U.S., mostly women over 40, though it can occur at any age. While there is no cure, early detection and a coordinated care approach can significantly improve quality of life and prevent long-term damage.

In the U.S. alone, an estimated 4 million people live with Sjögren’s. Yet, for most patients, getting diagnosed takes 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer. Dr. Pawan Gupta, Senior Cataract & Retina Surgeon, explains why, “Symptoms like dry eyes, fatigue or dry mouth are so common, they’re often misattributed to dehydration, stress, screen time or aging. This leads to delayed referrals and misdiagnoses.”

That delay is costly, Sjögren’s doesn’t just stay in the eyes and mouth—it can quietly affect lungs, kidneys, nerves, joints and even increase the risk of lymphoma.

What are the early signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome?

While every case is different, the most reported symptoms include:

• Persistent dry eyes or burning sensation
• Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing
• Chronic fatigue
• Joint pain
• Dental cavities or oral infections
• Vaginal dryness
• Brain fog or memory lapses

These may seem harmless at first—but when ignored, they point to a deeper autoimmune imbalance that can worsen with time.

Why Sjögren’s Isn’t Just a ‘Mild Autoimmune Condition’?

Sjogren’s Syndrome is often mistakenly believed to be a mild autoimmune disease because the early symptoms, dry eyes and dry mouth, seem harmless and are easily overlooked. Dr Pawan says, "This disease can be anything but minor. It is a systemic autoimmune disorder that results when the body's immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture, namely the lacrimal ) and salivary glands. This can lead to serious complications, involving multiple organs, over time, it goes from discomfort to widespread complications."

Sjogren's progresses to potentially affect the lungs, kidneys, joints, nerves, and gastrointestinal system. "Many patients also suffer from chronic fatigue, debilitating pain in their joints and an increased risk for lymphoma. The complexity of the condition may require a multi-specialty approach that involves a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist and pulmonologist. The perception that Sjogren’s is a benign condition, means that aggressive management is delayed and can potentially deprive patients of optimal quality of life. Time is of the essence for early intervention to stop irreversible damage, especially to the eyes and internal organs. Sjögren’s should be viewed as a serious, chronic and often progressive disease requiring long-term comprehensive care management," adds Dr Pawan.

Does Sjögren’s Syndrome Takes Years to Diagnose?

Sjögren’s Syndrome can take many years to identify, and Dr Gupta evidently explains, "Since the early symptoms of dry mouth, dry eyes, and mild fatigue could be easily ascribed to more common and easily explained reasons such as dehydration, adverse effects of medications, or just aging. Physicians might not think of the diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder without other obvious pertinent reasons or signs. In addition, these early symptoms might accompany other disorders and clinical conditions, making other relevant areas of differential diagnosis difficult."

Initially in their disease, most of the general physicians they visit would not recognize the underlying immune dysfunction and that treating the symptoms may be treating the symptoms only. Another aspect that doesn't make diagnosis easier is the process to obtain a definitive diagnosis. There is not a single definitive test for Sjögren’s. Most patients receive a diagnosis following a battery of lab tests, eye exams, imaging, or biopsies of salivary glands and extensive history, simultaneously and serologically completing the diagnostic picture. As Sjogren progresses slowly, there may not be systemic problems until much later in the disease, delaying diagnosis even longer.

"Delaying the diagnosis of Sjogren’s means the patients will suffer for a longer period and are at increased risk from complications due to it being an auto-immune disorder. Increasing awareness about early symptoms of patients and having physicians diagnosing and referring to rheumatologists may assist in achieving timely diagnosis and management of this complex disease," emphasises Dr Gupta.

Does Dry Eyes Become a Progressive, Permanent Risk for Sjögren’s Syndrome?

Yes, if untreated, dry eyes can become a progressive and potentially permanent problem for those with Sjogren's Syndrome. In Sjogren's Syndrome, the immune system attacks the lacrimal glands and dramatically decreases the production of tears. When that happens, the natural tear film that protects and nourishes your eye can become unstable, leading to certain ocular issues such as irritation, blurred vision, burning, and potentially corneal damage in long-standing situations.

As a result of untreated dryness, chronic dryness leads to long-term complications in many cases. Serious complications range from corneal ulcers, corneal infections, and lastly, permanent vision loss. Dr Gupta points out, "Treatment for dry eyes in Sjogren's starts with frequent artificial tear use to keep your eye surface moist. In more progressive cases, punctal plugs may assist in holding your natural tears by blocking the drainage through your tear ducts. It is important to follow up regularly with your eye care specialist. Since Sjogren's is progressive, it is good practice to take proactive and continued care of your eyes to preserve vision as well as prevent irreversible damage."

What are the Treatment Options for Sjögren’s today?

There is no cure, but a multi-specialty approach helps manage symptoms and slow progression:

For dry eyes: Artificial tears, prescription anti-inflammatories, punctal plugs

For dry mouth: Saliva substitutes, sugar-free lozenges, good oral hygiene, regular dental care

Systemic symptoms: Hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants

Lifestyle adjustments: Hydration, humidifiers, avoiding triggers (like alcohol or caffeine), and pacing energy

Patients often need coordination between a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist, dentist, ENT and sometimes neurologist.

What makes the 2025 theme ‘Awareness Through Research’ important?

This year’s theme recognizes that real progress in Sjögren’s research has come from patients who speak up.

Their stories are shaping new clinical trials, earlier screening tools, and even new drug development. Salivary gland imaging, lab biomarkers, and tear analysis are all becoming more advanced thanks to this growing patient-led momentum.

If you're experiencing persistent dry eyes, dry mouth, or crushing fatigue, don’t dismiss it—and don’t let others dismiss it either. If symptoms don’t improve or begin to cluster, especially with joint pain or swelling, ask your doctor directly about a referral to a rheumatologist. Early intervention can change the course of this disease.

For doctors, it’s time to challenge the common assumptions. Not every case of dry eyes stems from excessive screen time or aging. If your patient presents with multiple vague, systemic complaints—dryness, fatigue, brain fog—consider Sjögren’s syndrome early, rather than as a diagnosis of exclusion.

For the public, awareness is everything. Most people with Sjögren’s don’t “look sick", but behind the scenes, they’re managing a complex, exhausting autoimmune condition daily. Sjögren’s may be quiet, but it’s not mild. It deserves sharper clinical attention, more robust support systems, and far greater visibility in the conversation around chronic illness.

Jack Georgakis was in his mid-thirties when he was diagnosed with gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. Troubles for the hardy New Yorker, who had an active lifestyle that included hobbies such as car racing, riding motorcycles, and working out in the gym, began when he had difficulty swallowing and was initially misdiagnosed. However, he was correctly diagnosed later, and his doctors chose a newer treatment regimen, setting him on the path to recovery.

Gastric and oesophageal cancers are among the most aggressive cancers, representing the fifth most common cancer worldwide, with 1.7 million new patients diagnosed in 2022.

They are also the fifth highest leading cause of cancer mortality, with approximately 1.2 million deaths expected globally in 2025Traditionally, they are treated with chemotherapy before and after surgery. However, they frequently recur, leaving patients and their families in despair. A trial, whose findings were published in 2025, found that adding immunotherapy to the standard treatment regimen significantly improved survival. Jack is one patient who has undergone this innovative treatment and is a living example of its effectiveness. This new approach can fundamentally alter how these cancers are treated and potentially save millions of lives.

What are gastric and oesophageal cancers?

Gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, occurs when the cells in the lining of the stomach grow abnormally. These cells form a tumour which may spread to other organs, including the lungs and liver. What makes this cancer challenging is that the symptoms only appear in advanced stages, reduces chances of survival.

Oesophageal cancer begins on the lining of the oesophagus, which is a tube that transports food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Tumours usually begin on the innermost layer of this tube and can spread to the lymph nodes or other organs. Just like gastric cancer, early-stage oesophageal cancer has no warning signs, and it is diagnosed only after it has spread.

New study yields promising results

The groundbreaking clinical trial was led by Dr. Yelena Janjigian, Chief of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK).

The trial was conducted at 147 study centers across 20 countries worldwide, demonstrating the global commitment to advancing treatment for these aggressive cancers.

As per studies, the recurrence rate of stomach cancer is between 14% and 60%.

For oesophageal cancer, this rate is between 36% and 52% post-surgery.iv The new study found that the risk of recurrence was drastically reduced when immunotherapy was included as a part of standard therapy.

Immunotherapy trains the body’s immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells. This trial used an immunotherapy drug called durvalumab, which is a checkpoint inhibitor. It works by exposing cancer cells, making it easier for the immune system to detect them. Out of the 948 patients in the trial, half received the usual regimen along with immunotherapy, and the rest received standard therapy alone.

After two years, 67.4% of the first group did not see a recurrence as compared to 58.5% of the second group. group. Furthermore, the risk of serious side effects from chemotherapy and immunotherapy was relatively low, and no new safety concerns were identified. This treatment did not compromise the patients’ chances for surgery either.

Aggressive cancers are daunting for patients, their families, and healthcare professionals. However, this newer method of treatment for gastric and oesophageal cancer is a clear sign that the tide is turning. The integration of immunotherapy into standard treatment has opened a world of possibilities. As more findings emerge, newer approaches like this can become the new standards for treatment, paving the way for more effective and personalised care.