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The Lancet: Latest global disease estimates, combined with health worker shortfall, show that global progress in health is not inevitable

The Global Burden of Disease study reveals that global mortality rates for adults stagnated or worsened in some countries in 2017, with fertility rates declining globally. The report also highlights a shortage of healthcare workers, with half of countries facing a shortfall and only 41 having sufficient physicians to serve their popula...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 8, 2018

How has children's body image changed over time?

The nationwide Chinese survey found that childhood overweight/obesity prevalence increased to 16.8% and children underestimated their weight status at the start of the study by 49%. Children with a higher body image had lower increases in BMI over time.

SourceWiley·JournalObesity·DateOct 5, 2018

A simple measurement of abdominal obesity

A simple measurement of abdominal obesity index (ABOI) has been developed to determine central obesity, focusing on abdominal fat content rather than total body weight or shape. ABOI can be calculated by measuring abdominal circumference and chest circumference, providing a more accurate assessment of abdominal obesity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Nutrition Journal·DateSep 27, 2018

Household cleaning products may contribute to kids' overweight by altering their gut microbiota

A Canadian study found that frequent use of household disinfectants alters the gut microbiota in infants, leading to higher body mass index scores and increased risk of childhood obesity. In contrast, eco-friendly cleaners may reduce this risk due to healthier maternal lifestyles and eating habits.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 17, 2018

Either too much or too little weight gain during pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes in children aged 7 years

Research by Professor Wing Hung Tam and colleagues found that excessive or inadequate weight gain during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic problems in children aged 7, including higher blood pressure and poor blood sugar control. The study suggests balancing weight gain to minimize adverse outcomes while co...

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateSep 17, 2018

The link between obesity, the brain, and genetics

New research at McGill University found that people with higher BMI tend to have reduced cognitive flexibility, increased volume in the left amygdala and decreased volume in certain memory structures. The study suggests a model where genetics play a role in obesity through brain anatomy and cognitive functions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2018

As body mass index increases, blood pressure may as well

A large-scale study found a positive association between body mass index and blood pressure, with a mean increase of 0.8-1.7 mm Hg per unit increase in BMI. The study's findings have implications for China's high blood pressure crisis and suggest the need for earlier and more frequent use of antihypertensive drugs.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 17, 2018

Less muscle wasting in obese people in intensive care may mean they have a better chance of survival

A new study suggests that obese patients in intensive care may have a lower risk of muscle wasting and a higher chance of survival compared to non-obese patients. The 'obesity paradox' refers to improved survival rates among critically ill individuals with obesity, potentially due to the adaptive response of the muscle to excess weight.