Pornography has become a pervasive aspect of modern culture, widely consumed across all demographics. Digital media platforms have made accessing adult content easier than ever. The statistics show the unimaginable consumption rates - the largest adult entertainment website, Pornhub, said it had served over 4.6 billion hours of porn in 2016. While many people might use pornography for entertainment or education, the ready availability suggests overuse and addiction.

When viewing habits increase, they may interfere with personal relationships, work commitments, and even mental health, thus making it essential to analyze whether one's consumption is getting into problematic territory.

Porn addiction or Problematic Pornography Use (PPU), is a situation where an individual cannot help but watch pornography despite knowing that it is interfering with their life. Unlike casual use, addiction involves compulsive behaviors that cause harm to the physical and mental well-being. PPU over time leads to conditions like erectile dysfunction, heightened anxiety, depression, and withdrawal symptoms. However, some researchers argue that moderate consumption doesn't inherently cause harm. The challenge lies in identifying the tipping point where usage becomes excessive and detrimental.

Test To Know If You Are Watching 'Too Much' Porn

International psychologists had to realize the necessity of clarity and developed what is known as the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale, a pioneering tool with which individuals can determine unhealthy habits. This 18-question assessment offers a scientific framework for behavior evaluation that has 98% diagnostic accuracy for PPU, and it looks into the six core elements of problematic pornography use:

1. Salience

This relates to the centrality of pornography in an individual's life. Does it really dominate their thoughts and emotions to the extent that one feels its effects on one's daily life?

2. Mood Modication

This assesses if the porn users utilize the medium in the process of mood control-arousal, relief, or escape from distress.

3. Conflict

This factor examines both internal and external conflicts. Internally, a person may recognize their habits are harmful but feel powerless to change. Externally, it assesses whether pornography use causes friction in relationships or interferes with responsibilities.

4. Tolerance

Over time, users may need to consume more explicit content or increase viewing time to achieve the same emotional effect, signaling a dependency.

5. Relapse

This captures repeated failed attempts to reduce or quit pornography use despite a desire to stop.

6. Withdrawal

Quitters may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include headaches, irritability, or even nausea.

The increase in PPU follows the increasing accessibility of the internet worldwide. The UK has ranked as the second largest consumer of online pornography with 16.6 million monthly searches. Studies show nine of ten adults have viewed pornography, while two-thirds of young people often view adult content. Notably, many individuals experience pornography at a relatively tender age; by 13, half of these children have already seen it in online platforms. Experts reveal that young people are a bit more vulnerable, given some spend up to 12 hours a week accessing pornography.

Research shows that around 10% of adults have experienced some level of PPU, and more among younger populations. It is observed that men have a more problematic consumption than women but it affects both men and women and all orientations.

Health Consequences of Porn Addiction

PPU is detrimental to health. It can lead to a variety of physical and psychological issues, among which are:

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

This is because porn use, over time, makes sex in real life less rewarding.

Mental Health Issues

High levels of anxiety, depression, and even emotional sensitivity are characteristic.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Even like drug or gambling addicts, those trying to give up pornography can feel chilliness, headaches, nausea, and insomnia.

Cognitive Impairments

Complaints of "brain fog," inability to focus, and feelings of increased loneliness or restlessness in abstinence are common.

Science Behind the Test

The Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale is the fruit of collaboration between experts such as researchers from Nottingham Trent University. After surveying hundreds of users, they were able to come up with a very fine questionnaire that probed into the six dimensions of PPU. Preliminary results indicate that around 4% of the participants fall under the "at risk" category while many others have moderate tendencies.

The study findings indicate the urgent need for addressing PPU as an emerging health issue. More research into the onset and nature of withdrawal symptoms and more in-depth psychological and social consequences of excessive pornography use are in the call of experts.

Watching Porn and Relationships

This influence of PPU is not just at an individual level. It can disrupt intimate relationships, break trust, and create unrealistic expectations about what intimacy is. In workplaces, this excessive consumption of pornography could cause a decrease in productivity, even leading to job loss. As society becomes increasingly dependent on digital platforms, the distinction between healthy use and addiction becomes increasingly ambiguous.

Moreover, early exposure to pornography among youth poses significant risks. Considering a quarter of 16 to 21-year-olds encountering porn during primary school, there is a greater need for education and prevention strategies than ever.

Determine for yourself if your pornography use is a problem by starting with personal reflection. The Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale can be a scientifically validated guide for you to understand your behaviors and their impact on you. Moderate consumption is certainly not harmful, but realizing signs of addiction is helpful in keeping mental, emotional, and relational health well-balanced. If your usage has affected your well-being, seek professional help to re-assert control.

If you are someone who suffers from dry and itchy eyes, a recent update may not be the best news for you. As per the enforcement report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 75,000 cases of eye drop solution were voluntarily recalled nationwide by the BRS Analytical Service, which is a pharmaceutical testing lab.

Why Are These Products Recalled?

The recall came in the backdrop of FDA audit at BRS Analytical Service, which found a number of Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) deviations. These are a set of regulations enforced by the FDA to ensure that manufacturers use safe practices to produce pharmaceutical products, reports NBC news.

"cGMP deviations may lead to products of unacceptable quality, and it is not possible to rule out patient risks resulting from use of these products,” said AvKare, which is a manufacturer of medical, surgical, and pharmaceutical items, which had originally reported the recall.

Furthermore, as per the enforcement record, the recall is also "due to a lack of assurance to sterility". These products are also described as "eye lubricants", which help relieve dry and irritated eyes.

Which Products Have Been Recalled?

NBC news reports that the recall includes ophthalmic solutions shipped over a two year period from: May 26, 2023 until April 21, 2025, according to AvKare.

• NDC# 50268-043-15 Artificial Tears Ophthalmic Solution
• NDC# 50268-066-15 Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Ophthalmic Gel 1%
• NDC# 50268-068-15 Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium Ophthalmic Solution
• NDC# 50268-126-15 Lubricant Eye Drops Solution
• NDC# 50268-678-15 Polyvinyl Alcohol Ophthalmic Solution

So, What Can You Do Instead?

Dr Anita Sethi, who is Principal Director and HOD Ophthalmology, Max Multi Specialty Centre at Panchsheel Park recommends to stay away from natural remedies like haldi (turmeric) or ginger from putting inside the eye.

In absence of eye lubricants, she recommends certain daily habits that can help protect the eyes from dryness. "In the extremely dry and hot weather, we need to protect our eyes by wearing sunglasses or caps and avoid the direct dust and wind going into the eyes when we are sitting in an air-conditioned room or the fan avoid the blast directly in your face, like when you're driving. Keep the vents so that it is away from your face and not going directly into the eyes."

When asked if there are anything one can eat to ensure their eyes are not dry, she said, "food and nutrients that help with dry eye basically just maintaining the health of the eye, which is foods rich in vitamin E, antioxidants. Coloured vegetables and fruits and even maintaining your thyroid and vitamin D levels because these also contributes to dry eye."

The key to ensure that your eyes are protected from environmental factors like sun, dust, and eat, especially for those who work outdoors or spend long hours on screen, she recommends investing in good sunglasses with ultraviolet protection.

"For those who are using computers a lot, you need to blink your eyes constantly, take breaks in between, and drink a lot of water. Dehydration is also contributing factor to dry eye." She also recommends using a zero number protective glasses and computer glasses that can decrease strain and dry eye.

When summer arrives and the air grows thick with warmth, it brings with it an unwelcome guest—mosquitoes. That irritating buzz in your ear, the sharp sting on your skin, and the maddening itch afterward can quickly turn a pleasant evening into a nightmare. But have you ever noticed that mosquitoes seem to swarm around you more than others? If you find yourself swatting away bites while your companions remain unbothered, you're not alone—and you're not imagining it.

Turns out, mosquitoes do play favorites, and science has a few fascinating explanations for why that might be. From your blood type to your wardrobe, your scent to your sweat, here’s a deep dive into the weird and wild biological reasons why mosquitoes might just love you more—and what you can do about it.

Before we decode their behavior, it’s important to understand the threat they pose. Mosquitoes are among the deadliest creatures on earth, not because of their bite itself, but because of what they can carry. From Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya to Zika Virus and Japanese Encephalitis, mosquitoes are silent vectors for disease that impact millions globally. According to the World Health Organization, mosquito-borne illnesses claim over a million lives each year—making them far more than a backyard pest.

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?

Contrary to popular belief, mosquitoes don’t bite for food. Male mosquitoes survive entirely on nectar, while females seek out blood to obtain proteins vital for egg development. That’s right—only the females bite, and they do it for reproduction.

But mosquitoes don’t choose their targets randomly. Their decision to bite you is rooted in biology and chemistry. Female mosquitoes are equipped with a suite of sensory tools that allow them to detect carbon dioxide from nearly 160 feet away, identify specific skin odors, and even spot you based on the color of your clothes. Here are five weird biological reasons mosquitoes may find you more irresistible than others.

1. Your Blood Type

There’s long been speculation that mosquitoes prefer certain blood types, and science offers some support. A 2004 study found that mosquitoes landed on people with Type O blood nearly twice as often as those with Type A. A more recent 2019 study reinforced this finding, observing mosquitoes feeding more frequently from Type O blood samples.

While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, researchers believe it’s related to secretions on the skin associated with specific blood types—particularly in people known as “secretors,” whose blood type antigens are found not just in their blood but in their saliva, sweat, and skin.

2. The Color of Your Clothing

Mosquitoes are highly visual and rely on sight to locate hosts, especially in the daylight. Studies show that darker colors—black, navy, and red—stand out more to mosquitoes. These colors retain more heat and contrast strongly with green, natural environments, making you an easy target.

Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing offers more than just summer comfort—it can be your first line of mosquito defense.

3. You Emit More Carbon Dioxide

Every time you exhale, you release carbon dioxide, one of the key cues mosquitoes use to track humans. Larger individuals, people who are pregnant, or anyone who’s physically active emits more CO₂ and is more likely to attract attention.

According to research published in Chemical Senses, mosquitoes detect carbon dioxide using an organ called the maxillary palp, which enables them to lock in on their target from a shocking distance of up to 164 feet.

4. Your Body Odor

Human sweat contains a mix of compounds—like lactic acid, ammonia, and uric acid—that mosquitoes find irresistible. Newer research highlights the role of carboxylic acids, which are produced when beneficial skin bacteria break down sebum (the waxy substance secreted by your skin).

Interestingly, even the most expensive perfumes or colognes may not mask these natural odors. Genetics, hygiene, and lifestyle factors like exercise can all impact how your skin smells to a mosquito.

5. Alcohol

Yes, even your choice of beverage can make a difference. A small study found that mosquitoes were more likely to land on participants after they had consumed beer. While the sample size was small and the findings modest, it raises interesting questions about metabolism, body temperature, and skin chemistry post-consumption.

Why Some People Swell More Than Others After Bites?

Mosquito bites don’t affect everyone equally. Some people develop small red dots; others end up with itchy welts. The difference lies in your immune response. When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva that contains anticoagulants and proteins. Your immune system releases histamine to combat these foreign substances, which causes inflammation and itchiness. People with stronger immune responses tend to have more visible reactions.

Remedies To Protect Yourself

Forget citronella candles and unverified home remedies. The most effective repellents contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. For those preferring natural alternatives, plant-based repellents such as neem oil, lavender, and citronella can help, though they may need more frequent application.

Want an extra layer of protection? Look for sunscreens that also offer mosquito repellent features—perfect for beach days and hikes alike.

How to Make Your Home Mosquito-Free?

A few strategic changes can turn your home into a mosquito fortress:

• Eliminate stagnant water in pots, buckets, and bird baths—mosquitoes breed in still water.
• Use ceiling fans to disrupt mosquito flight patterns.
• Install window screens and keep doors shut during dawn and dusk.
• Add mosquito-repelling plants like marigold, basil, and lemongrass to your garden.
• Taking cues from global solutions like the Caribbean’s approach to community fogging and public awareness can also make a lasting impact.

Understanding why mosquitoes target you is more than a fun fact—it’s a survival skill. Armed with knowledge and the right protection, you can reclaim your summer without constantly itching or worrying about disease.

Cancer diagnoses is one of the most devastating news that one receives. The future after the revelation may seem bleak, but as many cancer survivors have said, one must power through and try their best. During these times, you lean on your close ones and friends for help, even if it is just for emotional support. Angela Torres always looked out for others, and helped them as best she could, until it was her who needed the help.

Angela is a busy mom with three kids and a full-time job. She also runs two food banks in the Bronx, New York City. She took over this important work from her mother, who also believed strongly in helping the community. However, when Angela found out she had breast cancer, it made her rethink everything about herself.

Angela said that before her diagnosis, she was always the one taking care of everyone else. She admitted, "I didn’t want anyone to think I was weak."

Finding a Lump and Diagnosing Cancer

At 39, Angela felt a small lump in her breast. Tests showed it was stage 0 breast cancer, also called carcinoma in situ. This meant it was very early, and she didn't need more treatment. This experience made Angela realize how important it was to get regular mammograms and checkups. She also encouraged her loved ones to do the same.

A few years later, Angela's sister had a mammogram, and doctors wanted to carry out more tests because they suspected something serious. The results, fortunately, showed no serious signs.

This scare made Angela's sister urge her to get another mammogram sooner than planned. Angela remembered, "She kept saying, ‘I just have a bad feeling.’ So I moved my mammogram appointment up six months, mostly just to get her to quit talking to me about it.”

Angela clearly remembers getting the call with the results of that mammogram. She was ironing her son's shirt for his prom the next day. Her doctor told her they had found several tumors that she would never have been able to feel on her own.

More Serious Diagnosis and a Change in Plans

Angela had another surgery to remove the tumors and take samples from her lymph nodes. Sadly, the tests showed that the tumors were cancerous. Doctors found different kinds of breast cancer cells. Most were hormone-positive, but one was triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Because TNBC can be more aggressive, Angela's treatment plan had to change. She would need surgery, chemotherapy (chemo), and radiation.

Treatment was a long and difficult process. After surgery, Angela had four months of chemo. Then, she had a few weeks to recover before starting daily radiation for several weeks. Her doctor explained that the side effects of chemo and radiation can build up over time. Angela wasn't sure what that meant for her life. But when she started radiation and experienced more side effects, she understood. Some of the side effects from chemo were still bothering her, and the radiation added to them.

How did Community Support Helped Her Prognosis?

Even though the treatment was hard, it worked. Angela believes that her positive attitude played a big part in getting through it. She also learned to accept help from others during her treatment. This was new for Angela, and she said it was the hardest thing to adjust to. "I just didn’t want to feel weak. I didn’t want people to give me that ‘awww’ look. I wanted to be superwoman and just power through, but you have to allow the help in," she explained.

American Cancer Society (ACS) explained that emotional support is crucial for better chances of survival during cancer. A strong emotional support helps people going through cancer have a more positive outlook, better changes in the cancer, and reports show that it helps them better their life quality immensely.

Small things like making brief calls, ending the call with ‘I’ll be in touch soon’, calling when it is suitable for them, returning their messages as soon as you can, checking in with their caretaker to know if they need anything.

True to her nature, Angela strives to help more people, she has spoken at events, at interviews, and with friends and family. Her goal is to use her experience to help save lives and talk about cancer honestly. She thanks ACS for their help and contribution, and gives people hope for the future and love “Nobody wants to go through this, but they make you feel like they're with you for the fight. That means everything.”