International health news
Three strains of gonorrhea are now untreatable. 78 million people contract the STD each year and the bacteria have developed immunity to antibiotics. The Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership are researching the development of new antibiotics to treat the superbug.
Sleeping badly may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer´s and the progression of the disease. Carriers of a gene linked to the condition, and those with a family history of Alzheimer´s were studied. It is not evident as to whether sleep affects its development, or the disease affects the quality of sleep.
Country updates
Every day, three women die the Philippines from complications arising from botched abortions. Abortion is illegal, so desperate women often risk their health and lives in attempts to terminate unwanted pregnancies. 65% of the population don’t use modern contraceptives, contributing to the number of unwanted pregnancies and estimated 610,000 clandestine abortions each year.
Mosquitoes in Chicago, USA have tested positive for West Nile Virus. Bodies of water, including small containers are prime breeding grounds so residents are advised to remove any containers holding water from their properties.
Alabama (USA) State health authorities have warned against entering bodies of water if you have an open wound. Vibrio can be contracted through eating contaminated seafood or contact with infected water if you have a cut or scratch. Symptoms include vomiting, chills, fever, diarrhoea and wound infections. People with chronic medical conditions and weaker immune systems are most vulnerable.
Health advice
Gynaecologists have warned against placing edible glitter capsules inside the vagina. ‘Passion dust’ could lead to dangerous infections caused by bacterial imbalances.
The risk of early death increases by 25% for Proton pump users, researchers have estimated. They recommend limited use, as the risk posed by prescribed proton-pump inhibitors is proportional to how long a patient has been using them. Adverse effects may include kidney and cardiovascular disease, fractures, dementia and Clostridium Difficile infections.
Back acne or ‘bacne’ could be avoided by changing shower habits. The condition that affects 50% of females and 40% of males in their 20s could sometimes be avoided by removing excess conditioner from the body after hair washing to prevent blocked pores.