Millions of Americans are exposed to low doses of radiation over their lifetime, but we don’t know what its effects are (and how severe they might be) on the human body. American researchers are urging the government to revitalise research into the health effects of low-dose radiation because it seems to have a lot of far-reaching effects that manifest decades later. It’s been linked to cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and cancer. Most exposed groups have been exposed involuntarily, like indigenous communities, veterans, and those near legacy nuclear testing sites. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
