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The Med & Mic™ 3.18.24 – 3.22.24
A medical news blog post
from the author of “Scoop, MD”
This Week In Medical News
Pig Kidney Transplanted in Living Human
A 62-year-old patient in Boston is the first living person to receive a transplanted kidney from a genetically modified pig. The technique has been performed with brain dead individuals. Two men have received heart transplants from genetically modified pigs, but both patients died within months. (AP, M. Stobbe, 3.21.24)
More Measles
The CDC has issued a health alert about a dramatic rise in measles around the world. Many countries, including Austria, the Philippines, Romania, and the U.K. are experiencing measles outbreaks. In the U.S., kindergarten immunization rates are below the herd immunity threshold in 36 states. The CDC urges vaccines for babies before they travel. (CNN, B. Goodman, 3.18.24)
OTC OCP Roll Out
Over-the-counter birth control pills are now sold online and in stores. The pill is progestin only. (The Hill, N. Weixel, 3.18.24)
Global Fertility Rates Shift Downward
The average number of children born to a woman in her lifetime decreased from 4.84 in 1950 to 2.23 in 2021. This is projected to decrease further to 1.59 by 2100, shrinking the population of most countries by the end of the century. This large-scale, cross-national, cross-cultural shift toward smaller families is a first in human history. To maintain stable population numbers, countries need a fertility rate of 2.1 children per woman. (CNN, M. Cheng, 3.21.24)
ADHD: One in Ten Children
Government statistics show that one in ten children ages 5 to 17 has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Factors that made the diagnosis more likely: being male, white, and lower income. (HealthDay, E. Mundell, 3.20.24)
Havana Syndrome Mystery
After five years of study with an array of advanced tests on more than 80 patients, the NIH has found no brain injuries or deterioration among U.S. diplomats and other government employees with “Havana Syndrome.” Symptoms of headaches, balance problems, sleep problems and thinking difficulties were first reported in Cuba in 2016 and later by hundreds of American personnel all over the world. The State Department now calls the entity “anomalous health incidents.” (AP, L. Neergaard, 3.18.24)
A note from Dr. M: The Med & Mic™ is going on spring break. During the hiatus, there will be some reorganization and reassessment of the activities at Dr. Maria ON Speaking at IWP, LLC. If you’ve loved this medical news blog, let me know, and I’ll take that into consideration.
In case The Med & Mic™ doesn’t return, it has been a pleasure updating you on the latest medical news and headlines to keep you on your toes and “media ready.”
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.