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From teachers to drivers: The jobs linked to hidden health problems

Many people associate health risks with dangerous occupations, but according to Dr Amir Khan, ordinary jobs can also put a strain on the body. He says he frequently sees patients whose health problems are linked to their everyday work, reports Mirror.

Ordinary jobs can affect your health

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Dr Amir Khan says he often treats patients whose health issues are connected to common occupations rather than traditionally hazardous workplaces.

Teachers do not always have time for breaks

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According to the doctor, many teachers are so busy that they do not have enough time to drink water or use the toilet during the working day.

Lack of hydration can cause problems

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Not drinking enough water and delaying toilet breaks can increase the risk of headaches, dehydration and recurring urinary tract infections.

Drivers spend most of the day sitting down

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Taxi drivers, bus drivers and delivery drivers often spend many hours seated, which can have a negative impact on their health.

Hairdressers put their bodies under strain

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Standing for long periods can, according to Amir Khan, lead to pain in the neck, shoulders, back and feet.

Care workers face heavy physical demands

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Carers and nurses regularly lift, bend and twist throughout the day, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

Office work can also have consequences

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Spending long hours in front of a screen, taking few breaks and getting little time outdoors can affect both physical and mental health.

Shift work disrupts the body’s natural rhythm

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Long shifts, night work and rotating schedules can interfere with sleep and the body’s internal clock.

Several conditions are linked to shift work

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According to the doctor, many years of shift work have been associated with a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Unpaid carers face significant challenges

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People who care for relatives without pay often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, depression and long-term health problems.

Small changes can make a difference

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Amir Khan stresses that the solution is not necessarily to change jobs, but to adapt daily habits to the demands that work places on the body.

Breaks, food and sleep should be priorities

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The doctor recommends that everyone takes regular breaks, stays hydrated, eats properly and protects their sleep, especially those working shifts.

Popular weight-loss drugs face new hair loss questions

Losing weight often brings noticeable changes to the body, but not all of them are expected. While medications such as Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic have transformed obesity treatment, researchers are now taking a closer look at whether they could also be linked to hair loss.

According to researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, whose findings were published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), people taking GLP-1 medications appeared more likely to experience hair loss than patients treated with other diabetes drugs.

The findings come as health regulators in the UK and the US continue monitoring reports of the potential side effect, reports Daily Post UK.

More cases

The research analysed electronic health records from nearly 50,000 adults with type 2 diabetes. Scientists compared patients prescribed GLP-1 medicines with others receiving different diabetes treatments to determine whether hair loss occurred more frequently.

After adjusting for factors including age and weight, the analysis found that users of GLP-1 medications had a higher likelihood of developing alopecia, the medical term for hair loss. Depending on the comparison group, the increased risk ranged from 37% to 68%.

Possible explanation

The researchers do not believe the medications directly damage hair follicles. Instead, they suggest the effect may be linked to rapid weight loss and a sharp reduction in calorie intake, both of which can disrupt the body’s normal hair growth cycle.

Significant weight loss may also increase the risk of deficiencies in nutrients such as iron, zinc and biotin, which are important for healthy hair growth. However, the researchers stressed that further studies are needed to confirm the underlying cause.

  • Nearly 50,000 patients were included in the analysis.
  • Hair follicles appear to remain intact, meaning hair may regrow in many cases.
  • More research is needed to establish a direct cause.

No reason to stop treatment

The researchers emphasised that the findings should not prompt patients to discontinue their medication. The study identifies an association but does not prove that GLP-1 drugs directly cause hair loss.

Instead, the results may help doctors better inform patients about possible side effects while health authorities continue to monitor the safety of these widely used medications.

New study finds drug reversed autism-like brain changes within hours

A better understanding of how the brain changes over time could be the key to developing future treatments for neurological conditions.

One of the biggest questions facing researchers is whether brain changes that begin before birth remain fixed for life or whether they can still be influenced in adulthood, reports News Wise

That question is at the heart of a new study from UCLA Health, published in Nature Communications.

While the findings are based entirely on laboratory mice and cannot be directly applied to humans, researchers believe they have identified an important biological pathway that could shape future autism research.

A different perspective

Previous research has suggested that inflammation during pregnancy may interfere with brain development, increasing the likelihood of autism-related characteristics in animal models.

The UCLA team wanted to determine whether those changes remain permanently fixed or whether they can still be modified later in life.

To investigate, researchers exposed pregnant mice to a mild inflammatory trigger before birth. As adults, their offspring displayed several long-lasting changes, including altered brain activity, repetitive behaviours, heightened sensitivity to sensory input and an increased susceptibility to seizures.

The researchers also observed excessive activity in the mTOR signalling pathway, which regulates cell growth and brain function.

An unexpected result

The scientists then administered a single dose of rapamycin, a drug known to suppress the mTOR pathway. Within approximately two hours, they observed significant changes in brain function.

According to the researchers, brain activity became more balanced, communication between different brain regions improved and several behavioural abnormalities became less pronounced.

The speed of the response suggests that the drug influenced how brain cells function rather than repairing structural changes in the brain itself.

Not a treatment

Despite the promising findings, the researchers stress that rapamycin is not being proposed as a treatment for autism. The effects proved to be temporary, and repeated dosing gradually lost its effectiveness. In addition, rapamycin is an immunosuppressive drug that can cause serious side effects.

Instead, the study highlights the mTOR pathway and the balance of neuronal activity as potential targets for future therapies.

The findings suggest that some brain functions may remain adaptable in adulthood, even when developmental changes are already established.

The researchers emphasise that much more work is needed before any clinical applications can be considered. For now, the study offers a new direction for understanding the biological mechanisms behind autism-related brain changes rather than providing a treatment for people.

How many cups of coffee could benefit your liver? New study has the answer

Although the findings, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, are promising, the researchers do not recommend that people start drinking coffee solely to protect their liver.

The study shows only an association and cannot establish that coffee is the cause.

The researchers also point out that drinking too much coffee can lead to problems such as poor sleep and heart palpitations.

For that reason, coffee should still be consumed in moderation, according to Health.

Not just caffeine

The study found that both regular coffee and decaffeinated coffee were associated with the same results.

This suggests that caffeine may not be be the only factor involved.

According to the researchers, other naturally occurring compounds in coffee may help reduce inflammation in the body and protect the liver.

This assessment is based in part on analyses of MRI scans and blood samples from a subset of the participants.

How much coffee should you drink?

The researchers followed nearly 355,000 adults from the UK Biobank for around 13 years.

Participants reported how much coffee they drank, and the researchers later examined who went on to develop liver disease.

People who drank five or more cups of coffee a day had a lower risk of cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver disease-related death than those who did not drink coffee.

People who drank three to four cups or one to two cups per day also had a lower risk.

Doctors warn: Don’t ignore these signs of colon cancer

Many people experience stomach problems from time to time. However, if the symptoms are new or persist, they could be a sign of a serious illness.

These include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, very dark or narrow stools, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fatigue, according to the American College of Surgeons, as reported by ScienceDaily.

The organization also notes that rectal pressure, nausea, vomiting, or a loss of appetite may be signs of disease.

These symptoms can have other causes, but they should be evaluated if they continue.

Early examination can make a difference

According to the American College of Surgeons, colorectal cancer screening is recommended from the age of 45 for people at average risk.

People with a family history of colorectal cancer or chronic bowel diseases may need to be screened earlier.

A colonoscopy remains the most reliable method of examination. It allows doctors to detect cancer and remove polyps that could later develop into the disease.

More younger adults are being diagnosed

Although colorectal cancer is still most common among older adults, the disease is now being diagnosed more frequently in younger people.

According to the American Cancer Society, around one in five cases now occurs in people under the age of 54. Thirty years ago, it was about one in ten.

This trend means that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among people under the age of 50.

For this reason, the American College of Surgeons recommends that persistent symptoms be taken seriously and assessed by a doctor, even before the usual screening age.

She took cold showers every morning for a week – here’s how it affected her

Cold showers have become popular on social media, but do they actually work?

A writer from Verywell Mind tested daily cold showers for one week and noticed several changes along the way.

She completed a week-long experiment

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The writer decided to end her morning shower with cold water every day for seven days to see whether it would affect her mood, energy levels, and concentration.

Experts recommended a gentle start

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Before beginning the experiment, she spoke with experts, who recommended ending a warm shower with about 30 seconds of cold water before gradually increasing the duration over time.

The first day was a shock

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The cold water felt extremely uncomfortable, but afterward she felt more awake, mentally sharp, and ready to tackle the day’s tasks.

She adapted quickly

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By the second day, she was much less apprehensive about the cold water and noticed greater mental clarity after her shower.

The routine proved important

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One day, she forgot to finish with the cold rinse and had to step back into the shower.

The experience made her realize that it was much easier to stick with the habit when it became a regular part of her morning routine.

It helped on a bad day

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Midway through the week, she woke up in a bad mood but found that the 30 seconds of cold water shifted her attention away from negative thoughts and gave her a mental reset.

The research is still limited

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According to the experts, there is some evidence that cold showers may help support mood regulation, but large, high-quality studies are still lacking.

She felt less stressed

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Toward the end of the week, the writer noticed lower stress levels.

She also referred to research published in Current Psychology, which suggests that cold exposure combined with breathing exercises may reduce perceived stress.

More energy and focus

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After one week, she did not experience the same jittery feeling often associated with coffee. Instead, she felt more focused, alert, and ready to work.

A small daily victory

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She described it as motivating to accomplish something challenging every morning, giving her a greater sense of confidence and mental resilience.

Possible benefits

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According to Verywell Mind, experts say cold showers may increase alertness, focus, and mental clarity.

Cold exposure may also activate the body’s stress response and increase levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.

Not everyone should try it

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Experts stress that cold showers are not suitable for everyone.

People with cardiovascular conditions or certain mental health disorders should exercise caution, and researchers continue to call for more comprehensive studies in this area.

Skin problems may be affecting more than your appearance

Both physical ailments and mental health fluctuations are widespread issues.

Medical science has traditionally treated physical symptoms and psychological distress as two separate areas.

However, new research published in Immediate Communication suggests that there is an unexpected connection within the body.

Signaling pathways inside the body

When a person experiences stress, the body releases chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline.

These substances affect the body’s protective barriers and increase oil production in the skin.

Figures from BJD show that 30% of people with long-term skin conditions also struggle with anxiety or depression.

Researcher Mariana Ramirez Posada explains that signals in the nervous system travel in both directions at the same time, with the brain sending messages to the skin while also receiving chemical responses in return.

Inflammation in the bloodstream

When prolonged irritation develops in the skin, the body produces special signaling molecules.

These molecules are called cytokines, and they are carried through the bloodstream to the brain.

In the brain, they influence the mechanisms that regulate mood, sleep, and stress, including neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

The new study analyzed hundreds of proteins in blood samples collected from patients.

Professor Mohammad Jafferany of Central Michigan University points out that the relationship between skin conditions and mental well-being is not merely psychological but deeply biological.

Conditions such as acne and eczema do not trigger psychological reactions solely because of their appearance.

Instead, skin disorders and psychological symptoms are directly linked through the immune system and proteins in the bloodstream.

Goodbye to cavities? New gel shows promising results

Tooth enamel protects teeth from wear, acids, and temperature changes.

Once enamel is lost, the body cannot naturally regenerate it.

As a result, enamel damage can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity, and, in severe cases, tooth loss.

According to ScienceDaily, dental diseases affect nearly half of the world’s population.

Current treatments can strengthen the remaining enamel, but they cannot restore enamel that has already been lost.

New method

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a fluoride-free gel that mimics the natural process by which enamel forms in young children.

The gel is applied to the tooth, where it fills small areas of damage and uses calcium and phosphate from saliva to build a new mineral layer.

According to the study, published in the journal Nature Communications, the new layer bonds with the existing tooth structure instead of simply sitting on top of it.

Could become the treatment of the future

The researchers tested the material under conditions designed to replicate everyday toothbrushing, chewing, and exposure to acidic foods.

The results showed that the new surface behaves in the same way as healthy tooth enamel.

The study also suggests that the gel could help people with sensitive teeth by forming a protective layer over exposed dentin.

The research team is now working to develop the gel into a commercial product through the company Mintech-Bio.

If further development and regulatory approval proceed as expected, the technology could offer a new way to repair damaged tooth enamel.

Low iron levels during blood donor screening revealed cancer

Laura Jackson from Southampton wanted to donate blood but was turned away because her iron levels were too low.

According to the Express, her doctor referred her for further tests to determine the cause.

Two FIT tests detected signs of hidden blood in her stool. This led to endoscopic examinations of both her bowel and stomach.

Few warning signs

Laura did not have the most common symptoms of bowel cancer. She experienced neither blood in her stool nor persistent stomach problems, the Express reports.

She often felt tired but believed it was due to her busy life balancing work and raising two young children.

From time to time, she also experienced severe stomach pain and diarrhoea, but it occurred so infrequently that she did not think much of it.

A large tumour

The examinations eventually revealed a five-centimetre tumour in her colon.

Laura was diagnosed with bowel cancer and underwent surgery in July 2025 to remove around one-third of her colon, according to the Express.

Following a tissue analysis, the cancer was classified as stage 3 because there were signs that it had begun to spread.

She therefore received four rounds of chemotherapy over a period of 12 weeks.

According to the Express, there are currently no signs of active disease. However, she will continue to attend follow-up appointments over the next five years.

Laura hopes that her story will encourage others to take unexplained symptoms seriously and speak to their doctor if something does not feel right.

How to stay hydrated and protect your body in the summer heat

When temperatures rise during a heatwave, maintaining a good fluid balance is crucial for your health.

Here are the most important tips to avoid dehydration and take care of yourself in the heat, according to Healthline.

Increase your fluid intake in the heat

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Women should normally drink nine cups of fluid a day and men 13 cups, but in warm weather, this amount should be increased because the body sweats more.

Drink continuously throughout the day

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Do not wait to drink until you feel thirsty, as thirst is already a sign that your body is lacking fluids.

Set reminders on your phone

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If you forget to drink water, you can set fixed time goals or use an app with notifications to remind you.

Carry a reusable bottle with you

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It is easier to reach your daily hydration goal if you always have a reusable water bottle on hand and refill it regularly.

Choose the right water bottle

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Consider size, material such as plastic or steel, as well as the type of lid and insulation, so the bottle suits your needs in the heat.

Eat your way to more hydration

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About 20 percent of your daily fluid intake comes from food, so you can increase your intake by eating juicy foods.

Choose water-rich fruits and vegetables

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Foods such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, lettuce, bell peppers, tomatoes, and oranges have a very high water content.

Supplement with soup and yogurt

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You can also increase your fluid intake through liquid or soft dishes such as cold soups, broths, and yogurt.

Replenish your body’s electrolytes

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When you sweat heavily, you lose essential minerals like potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium, which regulate the nervous system and muscles.

Use electrolyte powder or coconut water

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You can quickly restore mineral balance by adding electrolyte powder to your water or drinking coconut water, which is rich in potassium.

Make your water more flavorful

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Drinking water does not have to be boring. You can add slices of citrus fruits, berries, cucumber, herbal tea, or sugar-free flavor drops.

Know the signs of dehydration

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Pay attention to a dry mouth, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, dark urine, and reduced urge to urinate, and seek medical attention for severe symptoms such as confusion or a rapid heart rate.