Medical News of the week ending June 22

Blood pressure myths, colon cancer, Measles and COVID update and Cannibus

💥 Blood Pressure Myths That Could Kill You

More than a third of Americans think high blood pressure comes with obvious symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath. It doesn’t. That’s why it’s called the silent killer—it shows up unannounced.

Only 13% of people could correctly define 130/80 as high blood pressure. Everyone else? Just vibing.

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🚽 Start Colon Cancer Screening Earlier

New study in JAMA Oncology shows that screening with FIT tests in your 40s—yes, 40s—not 50s—significantly reduces colon cancer cases and deaths.

Reminder: colon cancer doesn’t check your ID.

If you prefer to hear your news- check out my podcast - The Unfiltered MD

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😷 COVID’s New Nickname: Razor Blade Throat

The latest COVID variant—NB.1.8.1, charmingly dubbed “razor blade throat”—is now behind over 1 in 3 U.S. cases. It spreads fast and feels like you gargled glass. Airport screenings show it’s here. Again.

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👁️ GLP-1 Drugs May Protect Eyes & Reduce Pain

GLP-1 drugs like Zepbound and Ozempic don’t just help with weight—they may reduce your risk of macular degeneration and glaucoma, and help fibromyalgia patients reduce pain and opioid use. Not bad for a drug that started as diabetes therapy.

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📉 Measles Cases Are Dropping—Here’s Why

Measles cases dipped below 30 last week. Why? The virus finally hit communities with >95% vaccination rates. A real-world reminder that vaccines work—even when a few cases happen in the vaccinated.

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🪜 Gen X: Stay Off the Ladder

CDC reports a dramatic rise in fall-related deaths among older adults. More than 41,000 deaths last year—most over 85, but rates are up across the board. So if you're in your 50s thinking of DIY roof repair… don't.

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🧠 Teens Need Sleep. So Do You.

Lack of sleep in teens affects brain function—specifically decision-making and self-reflection. In other words, your sleep-deprived teen actually can’t make a good decision.

Want better sleep yourself? Eat more plants. A new study shows that just five cups of fruits and veggies can improve sleep by 16%—in the same night. Salad before slumber.

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💚 Cannabis Isn’t Harmless

A new meta-analysis links cannabis use to higher rates of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death. Yes, it’s natural—but so is lightning.