Are health influencers making us sick?

Health influencers on social media can both help and harm people's understanding of health. As more people turn to the internet for medical advice—nearly 80% of U.S. adults in 2025 reported this behavior—misleading information can lead to negative consequences.

In her book "Bad Influence," journalist Deborah Cohen explores how social media transforms health information. While it's true that the internet democratizes health knowledge, Cohen warns that much of the content is driven by advertising goals rather than sound medical evidence. Influencers often promote unproven supplements or share conflicting advice, sometimes for financial gain.

Cohen highlights a specific example with ADHD, where social media has raised awareness but also contributed to self-diagnosis and the spread of misleading health advice. Issues like underrepresentation of women's health in mainstream medicine have led many to seek information online, often encountering unverified claims. As influencers collaborate with health brands without proper disclosure, the line between genuine advice and marketing can blur, making it difficult for individuals to find reliable information.

A portable ultrasound sensor may enable earlier detection of breast cancer

A new portable ultrasound sensor developed by MIT researchers may allow for earlier detection of breast cancer. This compact system could facilitate breast ultrasounds either at home or in doctors' offices, especially for individuals at high risk of developing the disease. The device comprises a small ultrasound probe and a processing module about the size of a smartphone, enabling wide-angle 3D imaging in real-time when connected to a laptop.

Frequent screening is vital, as some tumors may only become evident between routine mammograms. These "interval cancers" can be more aggressive, underscoring the importance of early detection. Currently, ultrasounds are typically conducted only when a mammogram indicates a potential issue, but the new portable system aims to enhance accessibility and convenience, particularly in rural or underserved areas where access to traditional ultrasound machines may be limited due to their size, cost, or the need for specialized technicians.

The researchers believe that with more accessible and user-friendly ultrasound technology, the likelihood of detecting tumors early could increase, thereby improving the chances of successful treatment. This innovation is seen as an important step towards enhancing breast cancer screening methods and outcomes.

The cost of being a woman: pay gaps, pensions deficits and product prices

Women's financial burdens in society are highlighted during the celebration of St. Brigid’s Day, emphasizing how women often face economic disadvantages solely based on their gender. From pay gaps to higher costs for everyday products, the article outlines how systemic inequalities affect women in multiple aspects of life.

One significant issue mentioned is the "pink tax," where products marketed to women are priced higher than similar items targeted toward men. This disparity is evident in various consumer goods—such as razors and shaving gels—where women pay considerably more for identical or comparable products.

Beyond consumer prices, this financial disadvantage extends to women’s earnings and pensions, with many facing a significant gender pay gap and pension deficits. The article suggests that the economic framework of society has historically favored men, leading to ongoing financial penalties for women in everyday situations.

Men are lining up for male birth control trials. One reason is Dobbs

Men are increasingly signing up for clinical trials of male birth control as interest in these options grows, particularly following the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturning abortion rights. Traditionally, men have limited contraceptive choices, mainly relying on condoms or vasectomies, which are often viewed as too committing for younger men.

Research indicates that attitudes toward male contraception are changing. A survey showed that 61% of men globally are open to trying male contraceptives, with a significant increase in interest among U.S. men following the Dobbs decision. Female partners are also supportive, with many expressing a desire for their partners to use birth control.

There are promising developments in male birth control methods currently in trials. Options like the Nestorone/testosterone (NES/T) gel and YCT-529, a non-hormonal pill, are showing positive results in early studies. Additionally, an implanted gel called ADAM is undergoing human safety trials. If successful, these products could provide more effective and reliable contraceptive options for men in the near future.

Massachusetts Could Be the Next State to Give Abuse Survivors a Pathway Out of Prison

Massachusetts is considering a new bill called the Massachusetts Survivors Act, which aims to help abuse survivors serving long prison sentences for acts related to their abuse. The bill mirrors resentencing reforms from other states that provide the possibility of reduced sentences or pretrial diversion for individuals whose actions are linked to their experiences of domestic violence.

One of the key advocates for this legislation is Karen Edwards, who testified from prison about her experience with domestic violence and the impact it had on her life. She is currently serving a 15 years to life sentence for the death of her abusive husband. The bill could significantly reduce her sentence, allowing her the possibility of reuniting with her children sooner.

Other survivors, like Maria Thompson, also shared their stories, highlighting the struggles faced by many incarcerated women who are victims of abuse. Advocates emphasize the need for reform to support these individuals, and the bill is currently awaiting further advancement in the Massachusetts legislature. There is hope that it will provide a pathway to justice and healing for survivors like Edwards and Thompson.

Menopause: Loss of gray matter may explain cognitive problems

A recent study from the University of Cambridge has found that menopause may lead to a loss of gray matter in certain brain areas, which can contribute to cognitive issues such as memory problems and mood changes. The research focused on understanding how menopause impacts brain health, particularly considering both women who use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and those who do not.

Menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, usually between ages 45 and 55, and is associated with various symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disturbances. The study included nearly 125,000 women from the UK Biobank, who were divided into three groups: pre-menopausal, postmenopausal without HRT, and postmenopausal with HRT. The findings indicated that menopause was linked to decreased gray matter volume in areas of the brain related to Alzheimer's disease.

While HRT showed some benefits in terms of improved reaction times, it did not completely reverse the brain changes associated with menopause. This research highlights the potential long-term neurological effects of menopause and underscores the need for further examination into effective treatments to mitigate these effects on cognitive health.

Morning-after pill finally available in Japan without a prescription, must be taken at pharmacy

Emergency contraceptives, commonly known as morning-after pills, will be available over the counter in Japan starting in February 2023. This marks a significant change after 15 years of requiring a doctor’s prescription for women and teens to access these pills. Now, women can purchase the morning-after pill without needing prior medical approval, and there are no age restrictions or parental consent requirements.

However, there are some important stipulations. The first morning-after pill available for over-the-counter purchase is Norlevo, priced at approximately 7,480 yen (around $48). Additionally, the pills must be bought in person at drugstores, as online sales are not permitted. This requirement limits privacy for users who may prefer discreet purchases.

Moreover, after purchasing the pill, women must take it on-site in the presence of a pharmacist, which reduces privacy and means they won't be able to keep the pills at home for future use. This policy may also create logistical challenges for pharmacies, as they need to ensure adequate staffing to handle these requests. Despite these hurdles, the availability of morning-after pills without a prescription is still seen as a positive step forward in improving access for women in Japan.

One Tech Tip: Fed up with AI slop? A few platforms will let you dial it down

AI-generated content, often labeled as "AI slop," has overrun digital platforms, frustrating many users who want better-quality content. To address this issue, some platforms are introducing features to help manage the visibility of AI-generated material.

Pinterest has introduced a "tuner" that allows users to adjust the amount of AI content in their feeds, focusing on categories where AI generation is most prevalent, such as art, fashion, and home décor. Users can find this option in their settings under “refine your recommendations.”

On TikTok, where a significant number of videos are AI-generated, the company is testing a new feature to give users more control over the type of content they see. This feature will allow users to adjust sliders to manage different types of content, including AI-generated videos, though it is not yet universally available.

In addition to these mainstream platforms, there are emerging apps like Cara and Pixelfed that specifically cater to users who wish to avoid AI content altogether. For example, Cara bans AI-generated works, and Pixelfed offers a community for artists focused on human-created content. New platforms like Spread also aim to provide spaces free from AI influence. Meanwhile, Deezer, a music streaming service, labels AI-generated tracks to help listeners distinguish them from genuine music.

‘I was bed-bound with endometriosis for half the month – until I changed what I ate’

Sophie Richards struggled with severe endometriosis pain for years, often being dismissed by doctors who attributed her symptoms to "just IBS or just painful periods." Despite being "bed-bound" for half of each month, it wasn’t until she was 21 that she was finally diagnosed with the condition, which affects about 10% of women. Upon diagnosis, Richards was told that her only option was radical surgery, leading her to seek alternative solutions.

Richards discovered a connection between diet and inflammation, prompting her to explore dietary changes. Initially skeptical, she began eliminating ultra-processed foods and focusing on anti-inflammatory options after enrolling in a course to become a women's health practitioner. This shift in diet significantly improved her symptoms, including lighter periods and reduced pain levels, contrary to the expectations set by her previous surgeries.

Now 29, she has published a book titled The Anti-Inflammatory 30-Day Reset, where she shares her journey and the insights she gained regarding diet and endometriosis management. Through her experience, Richards aims to empower others facing similar health challenges, demonstrating that lifestyle changes can be a powerful tool in managing chronic conditions.

‘I Needed to Know I Was Not the Only One’: Talking Honestly About Pregnancy Loss and Reproductive Grief

Reproductive grief includes the emotional and physical pain experienced after events such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and infertility. It is a type of loss that many face but rarely discuss, leading to feelings of isolation and shame. Authors Chari Pere and Dr. Jessica Zucker aim to break the silence surrounding this topic to help individuals feel less alone.

Both women have personally endured the heartache of pregnancy loss and understand the deep anguish that accompanies it. Through their work, they emphasize the importance of talking openly about reproductive loss, which can be a source of healing. They believe that addressing these experiences publicly is crucial in normalizing the conversation surrounding such painful events.

Pere uses her skills as a cartoonist to share her story about miscarriage, hoping to highlight the experiences of others who have faced similar struggles. Similarly, Zucker's book and campaign raise awareness and support for those grieving reproductive loss. Both advocate for a shift in the narrative so that fewer people feel alone in their suffering and more support is available for healing.