Professor of neurology and pediatrics, Beth Malow, looks into the truth behind the health claims related to daylight savings clock changes. Sadly, the evidence holds up; whilst “falling back” does not have serious consequences, the movement of the clocks forward packs a heavier punch. Likely due to the reduced exposure to sunlight, the knock-on effects of the shift forward include “chronic sleep deprivation” and “circadian misalignment”, both acting as precursors to a range of more serious health issues. Interestingly, 63% of Americans say they want to eliminate the time changes. 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
