Groundbreaking Medical Studies Highlighted in 2018
A new year is nearly here, promising more medical advancements and life-changing research in the health industry. But before we bid farewell to 2018, let's recap some of the groundbreaking studies we covered this year.
Amidst global events, sporting triumphs, and tragic losses, people in the United States had various top internet searches. The World Cup, Hurricane Florence, and mourned celebrities like Mac Miller, Kat Spade, and Anthony Bourdain held significant interest. Another captivating event was Prince Harry's wedding to Meghan Markle, now the Duchess of Sussex.
Here at Medical News Today, our dedicated readers from across the nation showed curiosity in a wide range of health topics, from diet and nutrition to groundbreaking advances in neurodegenerative conditions and cancer research. Let's delve into some of the most popular medical research of 2018.
The rise of intermittent fasting diets
Diet-related topics continued to court attention, and the 16:8 fasting diet claimed a share of that interest. This diet style involves eating whatever desired during an 8-hour window and fasting for the subsequent 16 hours.
Two important studies revealed that the 16:8 diet plan not only aids weight loss but also lowers blood pressure, which is crucial for preventing hypertension and subsequent cardiovascular issues. Moreover, researchers speculated that following this diet could boost cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and potentially increase lifespan.
Dangerous temptations to avoid
As the holiday season approaches, we may feel the lure of guilty pleasures. However, recent studies provide insight into the harmful effects of certain temptations and their potential impact on overall health.
For instance, a study in the journal Addiction warned of the severe consequences of long-term alcohol use, which can lead to a loss of gray matter volume and damage to white matter. Another study found that electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) contain toxic substances and release toxic vapors; regular e-cigarette use still exposes users to almost as much nicotine as smoking regular cigarettes, increasing heart rates and DNA damage, which may boost the risk of various cancers.
What is going on in cancer research?
In 2018, cancer continues to pose a significant threat, with around 18 million cancer-related deaths according to WHO data. Research is crucial in advancing cancer treatment and diagnosis, making progress towards more precise and timely interventions.
Two notable developments are (1) the creation of a sensitive blood test called CancerSEEK, which accurately detects eight types of cancer with varying degrees of accuracy, especially ovarian cancer, and (2) an innovative cancer-destroying injection that can eradicate solid tumors with just one administration when used in combination. The injection has shown promise against various cancer types such as breast, colon, and skin cancer.
Using old remedies in new ways
Another research trend in 2018 focused on reevaluating established treatments to determine if they can be applied to novel purposes. For example, a study published in The Journal of Immunology discovered that baking soda could protect against arthritis by calming overactive mesothelial cells and manipulating immune cell activity in the spleen, kidneys, and peripheral blood.
As thenew year unfolds, the Medical News Today team eagerly awaits the new discoveries, debates, and medical advancements that 2019 has in store. We remain committed to providing you with accurate, informative, and accessible information to support your health journey.
Enrichment Data:
In 2018, various research studies across nutrition, neurodegenerative conditions, and cancer offered significant advancements and possibilities for future treatments. Key developments include:
- Exploration of genetics and molecular medicine, such as gene editing and gene therapy technologies, in novel cancer treatment strategies[1, 3].
- Research into artificial intelligence (AI) applications in medicine, particularly in disease diagnosis and prediction[2].
- Investigations into the use of established treatments, like baking soda, for new purposes such as reducing inflammation and protecting against arthritis[1].
- Promising research into the potential benefits of nutritional supplements, such as nicotinamide riboside, for blood pressure regulation[1].
For a more comprehensive understanding of 2018's most impactful studies, consult scientific databases and annual reviews in nutrition, neurodegeneration, and oncology for detailed lists and discussions of leading papers in these fields.
- The 16:8 intermittent fasting diet, a popular diet style this year, not only aids weight loss but also lowers blood pressure and may boost cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and potentially increase lifespan.
- Indulging in long-term alcohol use can lead to a loss of gray matter volume and cause damage to white matter, while e-cigarettes, despite being marketed as a safer alternative, contain toxic substances, release toxic vapors, and expose users to almost as much nicotine as smoking regular cigarettes.
- In cancer research, a blood test called CancerSEEK, which accurately detects eight types of cancer, and an injection that can eradicate solid tumors with just one administration hold significant promise for more precise and timely interventions.
- Research in 2018 saw a focus on reevaluating established treatments, such as baking soda, to discover if they could be applied to novel purposes, like protecting against arthritis by calming overactive mesothelial cells.
- Further investigation this year revealed the potential benefits of nutritional supplements like nicotinamide riboside for blood pressure regulation.
- Promising advancements in 2018 also include exploration of genetics and molecular medicine, artificial intelligence applications in medicine, and research into contextual use of treatments for various medical-conditions.
- As the new year unfolds, there's much anticipation for new discoveries, debates, and medical advancements in the fields of health-and-wellness, nutrition, neurodegenerative conditions, and cancer research.
