Medicine

US seeks to stem measles outbreaks from Israel and Ukraine

A total of 555 cases of measles have been recorded in the United States since January 1 with an Orthodox Jewish community in New York City being hardest hit who were infected by visitors from Israel, where a measles outbreak began a year ago.

Measles cases rise nearly four-fold - WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that global measles cases have nearly quadrupled in the first quarter of 2019 to 112,163 cases compared to the same period last year.

Study finds diabetes drug may prevent, slow kidney disease

A groundbreaking study finds diabetes drug Invokana and other similar drugs can lower risk of heart disease, and can possibly prevent, slow kidney disease.

Parkinson's patients 'face prejudice and abuse'

Parkinson's UK releases report to coincide with World Parkinson's Day today. Their study shows many people encounter prejudice resulting from mostly ignorance about the disease.

Tackling cholera after the devastation of Cyclone Idai

Climate change could help cholera make a comeback unless a concerted effort is made to spread awareness.

Medicinal plants used in traditional remedies under threat in Mexico

Healers of Mexico's indigenous communities want to preserve traditional knowledge and skills on medicinal plants.

Mozambique cholera cases jump to 139 a day after outbreak

Cholera is a major concern for hundreds of thousands of Cyclone Idai survivors who are now living in squalid conditions.

WHO says vaccine hesitancy a major threat

Some people vaccinate their children simply because it's a requirement for children to attend school or even sporting events, the World Health Organization says highlighting the threat of hesitancy.

US paediatrician gets at least 79 years for assaulting patients

Prosecutors say Dr. Johnnie Barto spent decades abusing children in the exam room at his pediatric practice in western Pennsylvania and at local hospitals, having opted to become a paediatrician so he'd have a ready supply of victims.

Record number of deaths by overdose in NYC as US faces opioid crisis

The opioid epidemic is the deadliest drug overdose crisis in US history, killing more people than gun violence or car accidents.

Turkish firm produces radiation-blocking x-ray scanner

The firm is also working on a bullet-proof vest manufactured with a cannabis composite.

Kabul air pollution on a par with world’s most polluted cities

Though the city's air quality index is crossing alarming levels, comparable with cities like Delhi, and harming public health like never before, the issue remains buried under the usual war talk.