The coronavirus pandemic has dominated the headlines, and our daily lives, for most of this year. Medical News Today have covered this fast-moving, complex story with live updates on the latest news, interviews with experts, and an ongoing investigation into the deep racial disparities that COVID-19 has unmasked.
However, this has not stopped us from publishing hundreds of fascinating stories on a myriad of other topics.
This week, our readers have been captivated by subjects as diverse as a possible benefit of low-to-moderate drinking, what to do if you fall in a nettle patch, and the six best exercises for weight loss.
Readers have also been interested in how a new urine test could help identify the best diet for your biological type and why we shouldn’t be too concerned about a recent outbreak of bubonic plague.
Here are 10 recent stories that people may have missed amid all the COVID-19 fervor.
1. What are the nonmedical factors most closely linked to death risk?
Our most-read article this week looks at new research that identifies the top 10 social and behavioral factors linked to an increased risk of dying. Smoking, alcohol misuse, and divorce feature prominently, but those who have never been married are also at risk.
2. Metabolites in urine point the way to a more healthful diet
Almost as popular, the second article in our roundup looks at how researchers hope to develop a 5-minute urine test to determine a person’s nutritional fingerprint.
It does this by rapidly analyzing the molecules produced during cellular metabolism, some of which are present in a person’s urine and are linked to conditions such as obesity and higher blood pressure. The test will make it easier to assess the suitability of a person’s diet for their biological makeup.
3. What are the best exercises for weight loss?
There is no single best exercise for weight loss, as different exercises are suitable for different people. For example, although running burns more calories per minute, many people prefer to walk for a longer period.
Another option is cycling, which burns more calories than walking but can easily become part of the daily routine for those who need to travel to work. Which type of exercise appeals most to you?
4. Asthma drug could serve to treat Alzheimer’s disease
There seem to be more and more examples of scientists repurposing established drugs for use in the treatment of other conditions. The coronavirus pandemic has seen renewed attention on decades-old medicines, such as hydroxychloroquine and dexamethasone.
This week, MNT reported on a new study that found that salbutamol, an asthma drug, prevents the formation of tangles of fibrous protein that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Plague in Inner Mongolia: Should we be concerned?
If ever there’s been a year to keep us guessing (and worrying), it’s 2020. There was concern this week over a fresh outbreak of bubonic plague in Inner Mongolia, China. MNT sought expert opinions on whether this outbreak should be of wider concern. They concluded that, in this case, any anxiety is misplaced.
6. Racism in mental healthcare: An invisible barrier
MNT’s ongoing investigation into health inequities continues with this Special Feature. We look at how racism prevents people of color and those from marginalized ethnic backgrounds from accessing mental healthcare. It has already emerged as one of the articles that our readers spent the most time with this week.
We also published this opinion piece by Dr. Wizdom Powell on the reality of racial battle fatigue for many Black Americans and the need for a commitment to radical healing by the wider community.
7. Stinging nettle rash: Side effects, prevention, and treatment
Last week, we reported on how to avoid and, if necessary, treat a scorpion sting. This week, we looked at stinging nettle rash. It can be irritating and painful, but it will usually resolve within a few days. Many people will be able to relieve the symptoms using home remedies. This article is one to familiarize yourself with before going for a hike this weekend.