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Defibrillator may have saved Christian Eriksen’s life – here is how it works

Christian Eriksen collapsed during Denmark’s friendly match against Ukraine and was subsequently taken to hospital for further examinations.

The incident has once again drawn attention to cardiac arrest, warning signs, and the crucial role played by defibrillators, according to The Sun.

Christian Eriksen collapsed during the match

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Christian Eriksen suddenly fell to the ground during Denmark’s friendly against Ukraine after clutching his chest.

He briefly lost consciousness before regaining awareness.

Teammates and opponents gathered around him

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Players from both teams formed a circle around Eriksen while doctors and medical staff rushed onto the pitch to assist him.

Taken to hospital

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Following the incident, Eriksen was transported to hospital, where he underwent further examinations to determine the cause of the collapse.

Internal defibrillator believed to have helped

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It is believed that the implanted cardioverter-defibrillator Eriksen received after suffering cardiac arrest in 2021 played an important role during the incident.

Suffered cardiac arrest at Euro 2021

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During Denmark’s European Championship match against Finland in 2021, Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest and his heart stopped for approximately five minutes.

What an ICD does

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An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a battery-powered device placed beneath the skin.

It monitors the heart’s rhythm and can deliver electrical shocks if it detects dangerous rhythm disturbances.

Team doctor praised the device’s performance

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Denmark national team doctor Morten Boesen stated that the internal defibrillator responded as intended and that Eriksen was able to walk off the pitch on his own.

Defibrillators can restore heart rhythm

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A defibrillator analyses the heart’s rhythm and can deliver electrical shocks to help restore a normal heartbeat.

Found in many public places

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Defibrillators are not only used by people with heart conditions. They can also be found in workplaces, schools, gyms, and other public locations.

Rapid response is critical

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Defibrillators are most effective when used within minutes of a cardiac arrest. For that reason, acting quickly is essential.

Can be used without medical training

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These devices are designed so that people without a medical background can use them in emergencies by following the built-in instructions.

How to use a defibrillator

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If a person is unconscious and not breathing normally, emergency services should be called immediately while cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is started.

The defibrillator should then be switched on and its instructions followed.

Four possible warning signs before cardiac arrest

Shortness of breath
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Some people experience symptoms before the heart stops pumping blood.

These warning signs may include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, weakness, and heart palpitations.

Cardiac arrest and heart attack are not the same

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During a heart attack, a person is often conscious and breathing.

In a cardiac arrest, the person typically collapses suddenly, becomes unconscious, and stops breathing normally.

Certain heart conditions increase the risk

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Some forms of heart disease can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

The most common cause is a serious heart rhythm disturbance known as ventricular fibrillation.

Source: The Sun.

Researchers removed from diabetes conference after criticizing research policy

There is growing concern in the U.S. about the impact of political decisions on scientific research.

Researchers, particularly in the healthcare sector, fear that reduced public funding could slow the development of new treatments.

These concerns became evident at a major diabetes conference in New Orleans.

A group of researchers attempted to draw attention to the issue by distributing materials to conference attendees.

Disagreement with organizers

According to Rador Radio România, as cited by HotNews, the researchers distributed copies of an article published in the American Diabetes Association’s own journal.

The article warned that cuts to federal research funding could hinder progress in diabetes treatment.

Conference organizers, however, argued that distributing the material violated the event’s rules. The researchers were therefore instructed to stop.

Criticism of the decision

The incident occurred shortly before a speech by Jay Bhattacharya, Director of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, according to HotNews.

Several of the researchers were escorted from the conference and barred from attending the event.

The researchers involved argue that the decision restricts free debate and fear that political pressure is playing an increasingly significant role in medical research in the United States.

Sources: HotNews and Rador Radio România.

First case of flesh-eating parasite confirmed

Multiple counties in Texas have declared a local state of disaster following the discovery of a dangerous parasite.

According to The Express, local leaders are seeking additional funding and resources to prevent further spread.

At the same time, scientists warn that a warmer climate could worsen the problem in the future, particularly in states along the Gulf of Mexico.

Case found in another state

The problem was first identified in southern Mexico last year. Cases have now also been reported in the United States.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed, according to The Express, the first case in New Mexico.

This brings the total number of recorded cases in the United States to five, with the other four reported in Texas.

Authorities’ concerns

The parasite is known as the New World screwworm. Its larvae can develop in open wounds in animals and, in rare cases, humans.

According to the USDA, infestations can lead to severe injuries, infections, and, in the worst cases, death.

As a result, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and continuing to investigate the newly reported cases.

Sources: The Express and US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Mosquitoes have favorites – here’s why you’re one of them

Mosquito bites are not just annoying. Mosquitoes can also spread diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and the Zika virus.

That is why researchers are working to understand what makes some people more attractive to mosquitoes than others.

The body sends signals

Research published in Scientific Reports shows that mosquitoes are attracted, among other things, to the carbon dioxide we exhale.

They can follow the air currents created by our breathing and locate people that way.

Another study published in Cell suggests that body heat and certain substances on the skin also play a role.

Some people produce higher levels of chemical compounds in their sweat that mosquitoes can detect.

According to Healthline, this may be one reason why some individuals are bitten more often than others.

A well-known repellent still works

Many people use the mosquito repellent DEET to protect themselves from bites.

However, a new study published in the Journal of Experimental Biology found that mosquitoes in laboratory experiments could learn to associate the smell of DEET with access to blood.

Researchers emphasize, however, that DEET remains one of the most effective mosquito repellents available.

The findings therefore do not mean that people should stop using it.

A surprising connection

A study published on bioRxiv involving 465 festivalgoers in the Netherlands found a possible link between beer consumption and an increased number of mosquito bites.

The researchers believe that compounds associated with the scent of beer may help attract mosquitoes.

However, they stress that more research is needed before this conclusion can be confirmed.

Overall, the research suggests that our breathing, skin chemistry, and possibly even beer consumption may influence how attractive we are to mosquitoes.

Sources: Healthline, Scientific Reports, Cell, Journal of Experimental Biology, and Biorxiv.

Doctors warn: These symptoms could point to ovarian cancer

Many women experience symptoms long before an ovarian cancer diagnosis is made. Here are eight warning signs that doctors say should not be ignored.

When the warning signs are easy to miss

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Ovarian cancer often develops with symptoms that can be mistaken for everyday health issues. This can make the disease difficult to detect in its early stages.

Persistent bloating

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A constant feeling of bloating is one of the symptoms most commonly reported by women who are later diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Feeling full too quickly

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If you suddenly find yourself feeling full after eating only small amounts of food, and the symptom persists, it may be worth discussing with a doctor.

Discomfort in the upper abdomen

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Some women experience ongoing discomfort in the upper abdomen rather than symptoms in the pelvic area.

Changes in digestion

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Long-lasting digestive issues can be one of the signs doctors recommend paying attention to.

Pelvic or lower abdominal pain

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Recurring pain or a persistent feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic region should not be overlooked.

Changes in menstrual cycles

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Irregular periods or noticeable changes in bleeding patterns may be symptoms that require medical evaluation.

Bleeding after menopause

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Any bleeding after menopause is considered an important warning sign and should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Unusual vaginal discharge

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Persistent discharge, bloody discharge, or discharge with an unusual odour may indicate that something is wrong.

Monitor how long symptoms last

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Doctors advise seeking medical advice if symptoms continue for more than two weeks or occur frequently throughout the month.

Family history may increase risk

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Women with a family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or colon cancer may have a higher risk of developing the disease themselves.

Awareness matters

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Because there is no routine screening test for ovarian cancer, recognizing the symptoms can play an important role in detecting the disease earlier.

New discovery could give doctors a five-year head start against lung cancer

The findings come from an international study published in the journal Cell. Researchers analysed around 48,000 blood samples and discovered a unique signature involving 14 proteins linked to future lung cancer risk, reports NDTV.

Rather than detecting an existing tumour, the protein pattern appears to reflect biological changes associated with inflammation and the earliest stages of cancer development.

According to the researchers, these signals can be present years before current screening methods would typically identify the disease.

Why it matters

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, largely because many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Scientists believe a blood-based test could help identify people at higher risk much earlier, allowing doctors to monitor them more closely and potentially improve outcomes through earlier intervention.

The study also adds to growing evidence that chronic inflammation may play a significant role in the development of lung cancer.

More research needed

Despite the promising results, experts caution that the test is still in the research phase and is not yet available for routine clinical use.

Several questions remain unanswered:

  • How accurate the test is across different populations
  • How it could fit into existing screening programmes
  • Whether earlier intervention would improve long-term survival

Researchers say the discovery marks an important step toward more personalised cancer prevention and earlier detection strategies.

Researchers: These supplements may be necessary for older adults

Dietary supplements are often marketed as an easy way to gain more energy, strengthen the immune system, and live longer.

However, for most people, they provide only limited benefits if the body is already receiving the nutrients it needs.

For older adults, the situation is somewhat different. As people age, their appetite may decline, and illness or medication can make it more difficult for the body to absorb important vitamins and minerals.

Not for everyone

According to researchers writing for The Conversation, supplements should only be used when there is a genuine deficiency.

This applies in particular to vitamin B12, vitamin D, and folate, which older adults are more likely to lack than younger people.

At the same time, the researchers emphasize that several studies have found no evidence that multivitamins improve health or increase longevity in otherwise healthy individuals.

Can cause problems

Dietary supplements are not entirely risk-free. Excessive amounts of certain vitamins can be harmful, and some products may interfere with the effectiveness of medications.

For this reason, it is recommended that people first determine whether they actually have a deficiency before starting any new supplements.

Too little protein

While many people focus on vitamins and minerals, the researchers point to something else that is often overlooked.

Many older adults do not get enough protein through their diet. This can lead to a loss of muscle mass, reduced strength, and a greater risk of falls.

The researchers therefore conclude that the most important step for many older adults is not necessarily taking more pills.

Instead, it may be ensuring adequate protein intake and maintaining a varied, balanced diet. Supplements can be useful, but only when they address a documented nutritional need.

Sources: Science Daily and The Conversation.

These foods can support your vision in everyday life

Many hours spent in front of screens, dry air, and advancing age can place more strain on the eyes than most people realize.

According to Apetit, a varied diet that includes specific nutrients may help support eye function and protect against common age-related changes.

Antioxidants are important for the eyes

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The retina and the macula rely on nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.

These compounds help protect the eyes from oxidative stress and act as a natural defense against blue light.

Diet can help protect vision

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A well-balanced diet cannot eliminate the need for glasses, but it may help reduce the risk of cataracts and support retinal health throughout life.

Carrots

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Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A as needed.

Vitamin A is essential for vision in low-light conditions and helps keep the surface of the eye healthy and well-moisturized.

Vitamin A has several functions in the eye

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A deficiency in vitamin A may be linked to dry eyes and a reduced ability to see in the dark.

This is why the vitamin plays a crucial role in maintaining normal eye function.

Fat

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When carrots are eaten with a small amount of fat, the body can absorb their beneficial nutrients more effectively.

Carrots cannot correct vision problems

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Although carrots are highly nutritious, they cannot cure nearsightedness or farsightedness.

Sweet potatoes

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One medium-sized sweet potato can provide the recommended daily amount of vitamin A.

In addition, it supplies dietary fiber and potassium.

Dark green vegetables

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Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens contain high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, which accumulate in the part of the eye responsible for the sharpest vision.

Lutein and zeaxanthin

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These plant compounds help filter blue light and may reduce the risk of cataracts while supporting retinal health.

Egg yolks

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Egg yolks contain less lutein than spinach, but the body can absorb the nutrient efficiently thanks to the fat content of the egg.

Eggs

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In addition to lutein, eggs also provide vitamin D and protein, making them a valuable part of a balanced diet.

Pistachios stand out among nuts

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Pistachios are highlighted as the only nut that contains lutein. They also provide antioxidants and healthy fats.

Almonds and sunflower seeds contain vitamin E and zinc

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These nutrients help protect eye cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Fish

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Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important structural components of the retina.

Omega-3 may help with dry eyes

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These fatty acids support the function of the tear glands and may benefit people who experience dry eyes due to prolonged screen use.

Vitamin C supports blood vessels in the eyes

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Oranges, lemons, blueberries, and blackcurrants contain vitamin C, which helps protect the small blood vessels in the eyes and supports collagen production.

Berries

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Berries are rich in antioxidants that may help protect the eye’s lens from clouding.

Consistency is more important than quick fixes

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Apetit emphasizes that the eyes benefit most from a varied diet maintained over time rather than short-term diets or supplements.

Source: Apetit.

Potatoes, rice or pasta? Here is the healthiest choice

Rice, pasta and potatoes are known for being rich in carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy. As a result, they are a staple part of many meals.

At the same time, they are often criticized for being less filling or for causing blood sugar levels to rise quickly.

However, according to the German Nutrition Society (DGE), as cited by UTOPIA, the impact largely depends on which type you choose.

Whole-grain products contain more dietary fibre and nutrients than their more processed counterparts, providing a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.

Major differences

Rice is one of the world’s most important staple foods, but its production requires large amounts of water.

According to UTOPIA, citing the Sustainable Rice Platform, rice cultivation uses a significant share of the world’s freshwater resources.

In addition, rice often contains small amounts of arsenic.

Brown rice contains more nutrients than white rice, while parboiled rice retains a greater proportion of its nutritional value.

Pasta primarily provides energy. Whole-grain pasta contains more fibre, vitamins and minerals than regular pasta and is therefore considered the best option within its category.

The clear winner

When the three foods are compared directly, information from the Bayerische Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft points to one clear favourite.

Potatoes are relatively low in calories, provide a strong feeling of fullness, and contain nutrients such as vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium and magnesium. They also have a lower climate footprint than both rice and pasta.

As a result, potatoes are considered the healthiest choice of the three when prepared without deep-frying. They are followed by brown rice and whole-grain pasta.

Sources: UTOPIA and Bayerische Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft.

These drinks may keep the body hydrated longer than water

For most people, water is the obvious choice when thirst strikes. It is healthy, calorie-free, and easy for the body to process, according to Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger.

However, researchers at the University of St Andrews in Scotland investigated whether other beverages remain in the body longer than water. Their study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

In the experiment, 72 healthy men drank one litre of various beverages. Researchers then monitored their urine output over a four-hour period to determine how much fluid the body retained.

Sugar does not always help

The researchers also examined drinks containing sugar, coffee, and alcohol. A high sugar content does not automatically make a beverage better for hydration.

In fact, excessive amounts of sugar can temporarily draw fluid out of the body.

Coffee performed similarly to water when consumed in moderate amounts, equivalent to around two to three cups of coffee.

Alcohol, on the other hand, has a diuretic effect. The more alcohol a drink contains, the more fluid the body loses.

The best drinks

Skim milk was the most effective beverage for retaining fluid in the body. It was followed by oral rehydration solutions, whole milk, and orange juice.

One explanation is that milk contains protein, fat, and sodium. These components slow the rate at which fluid leaves the stomach, allowing it to remain in the body for longer.

Water remains an excellent everyday choice. However, during periods of extreme heat, intense exercise, or situations where drinking frequently is not possible, skim milk may help the body retain fluid more effectively, according to the study.

Sources: Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger and American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.