The Philippines, with its vast tropical waters bridging over 7,000 islands, plays a significant role in the global seafood supply, contributing over four million tonnes of marine products each year. This impressive statistic positions the nation as the 11th largest seafood producer worldwide—a testament to both the richness of its marine biodiversity and the labor
Health
Since its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on June 4, 2021, semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, has garnered significant attention as a revolutionary weight-loss medication. Being the first new weight-loss drug approved in nearly seven years, the excitement surrounding Wegovy’s introduction is fueled not only by its efficacy in facilitating weight loss—approximately
The resurgence of measles is an unsettling reality as reports indicate a staggering increase in global cases, hitting over 10 million in 2023. This marks a troubling 20% rise from the previous year, spotlighting significant deficiencies in vaccination rates worldwide. According to a collaborative study from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers
Recent research from New York University (NYU) is challenging the age-old perception that memory is solely a function of the brain. Scientists have uncovered a fascinating truth: memory formation and learning are processes that transcend the confines of brain cells. According to neuroscientist Nikolay Kukushkin, the body’s cells, from nerve cells to kidney cells, also
Sleep apnea is often overshadowed by more recognizable cardiovascular risks, such as poor diet and lack of exercise. However, as awareness grows, it’s becoming apparent that sleep apnea—characterized by temporary breathing stops during sleep—is a significant contributor to heart disease and strokes. While the problems related to unhealthy eating and sedentary lifestyles have clear, researched
John Steinbeck famously remarked that complex problems often find resolution with the help of sleep, a notion that aligns with both anecdotal experiences and contemporary scientific research. Numerous prominent figures have attributed their innovative ideas and breakthroughs to the realm of dreams. Recent scientific studies have begun to provide empirical support for these claims, investigating
The emergence of H5 avian influenza in a teenager in British Columbia marks a significant alarm for public health authorities in Canada. This incident not only highlights the ongoing risk of zoonotic diseases—those that jump from animals to humans—but also raises critical questions about surveillance and response mechanisms in place. As the first confirmed case
In the thick of cold and flu season, shelves in American pharmacies overflow with familiar brand names such as Sudafed, Mucinex, Benadryl, and Vicks, promising relief from the common symptoms of respiratory ailments. However, many of these widely trusted products contain phenylephrine, a decongestant ingredient recently scrutinized by health authorities for its alleged ineffectiveness. The
Osteoporosis, often dubbed a silent disease, poses significant challenges to bone health as it frequently goes unnoticed until a fracture occurs. This condition, characterized by diminished bone density and strength, leads to fragile bones susceptible to fractures, particularly in vulnerable areas like the spine, hips, and wrists. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, an estimated
As individuals navigate through the phases of life, the quest for healthy aging becomes increasingly prominent. The goal is straightforward: to age gracefully and avoid the pitfalls of chronic health issues. A recent study sheds light on a significant factor that could influence this journey—adequate sleep. According to research involving over 3,300 participants aged 45
In recent years, medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have gained prominence for their efficacy in weight loss, particularly for overweight individuals struggling with type 2 diabetes. Initially developed to manage blood sugar levels, these GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown a significant ability to facilitate weight loss, drawing attention from both healthcare professionals and the general
Phthalates are a group of chemicals widely used in the production of flexible plastics, and among them, benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) has raised alarm bells regarding its potential repercussions on reproductive health. A study spearheaded by a team at Harvard Medical School has opened up a new avenue of research, shedding light on how BBP
For countless generations, humanity’s primary beacon of illumination and energy has been the Sun. Revered across diverse cultures, ranging from Ancient Egypt to the indigenous communities of South America, the Sun has symbolized life, warmth, and sustenance. This universal adoration for the Sun can be largely attributed to its essential role in survival. It is
Recent advancements in research have brought to light a crucial connection between the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and its ability to infiltrate the brain and central nervous system. This phenomenon has garnered attention not only for its implications in neurological health but also for its potential link to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
For many of us, high school biology served as a gateway to understanding the intricate world of life at the cellular level. We memorized diagrams that showcased organelles—the various “organs” of a cell—surrounded by membranes, each serving unique functions essential for the cell’s homeostasis. Mitochondria were celebrated as the powerhouses generating energy, lysosomes as the