People with prediabetes are stuck in a sort of purgatory; they have higher than normal blood sugar levels, but they’re not high enough to be considered diabetic. It’s a warning that can last for several years and is entirely reversible up until it develops into diabetes – the USA’s 7th leading cause of death. A healthy lifestyle seems to be more effective than medication; doctors suggest adding more fibre and reducing fat in their diets, along with partaking in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. 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
