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What your patients are reading: Week of September 30, 2024
October 4, 2024
Hidden toll of Hurricane Helene: Deaths expected to rise for years
The death toll from Hurricane Helene, which recently exceeded 100, is expected to rise significantly over the coming decades. A new study published in Nature examined 501 events from 1930 to 2015, revealing that tropical storms can cause an additional 7,000 to 11,000 deaths over the next 15 years. These storms have proven deadlier than car crashes, infectious diseases, and combat for U.S. soldiers. Researchers used methods to detect "excess deaths" by looking at typical mortality trends and singling out anomalies, like a large natural disaster. The study also highlighted that Black communities experience a higher mortality rate from tropical storms compared with other populations. (DePillis, 2024)
"Galaxy Gas" trend raises health concerns
Nitrous oxide, often sold as whipped cream chargers for culinary use, is being misused as a recreational drug dubbed "Galaxy Gas." Despite warnings from medical professionals about its potential dangers, including death, its popularity has surged on social media. Many online platforms have attempted to curb the spread of related content, but it remains easily accessible. FDA regulates nitrous oxide as a food product, but its use is illegal in many states. (Clark, 2024)
Experts warn against unsupervised "microdosing" of weight-loss drugs
The rising popularity of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has led to an increase in “microdosing,” where individuals take smaller-than-standard doses. Some experts say the practice is potentially beneficial if done under medical supervision, citing weight loss maintenance, blood sugar maintenance, and reduced cholesterol levels. However, unsupervised microdosing can lead to adverse reactions and undermine the effectiveness of these drugs. (Trepany, 2024)
Sources:
DePillis, L. (2024, October 2). The New York Times. Hurricane Helene Deaths Will Continue for Years, Study Suggests. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/02/business/economy/hurricane-helene-deaths-climate.html
Clark, A. (2024, September 30). CBS News. The "Galaxy Gas" trend whipping up controversy on social media. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/galaxy-gas-nitrous-oxide-social-media-controversy/
Trepany, C. (2024, September 26). USA Today. Ozempic is so popular people are trying to 'microdose' it. Is that a bad idea? https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2024/09/26/ozempic-microdosing-safety/75384332007/
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