COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION IN

SCHIZOPHRENIA AND BIPOLAR DISORDER

UNFORTUNATE RISE OF STI’S
SMOKING RISKS
TELEMEDICINE AND VETERAN HEALTHCARE 3D
COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW
PRINTED PERSONALISED ORTHOTICS OF THE
CRISPR-CAS9
MEDITERRANEAN DIET
TECHNOLOGY IN RELATION TO SICKLE CELL DISEASE
NANOTECHNOLOGY IN CANCER DIAGNOSIS
MRNA COVID VACCINE FOR
GLIOBLASTOMA
Published by Mira Tsui and Alice Nayeon-Kim,
LINK BETWEEN PHYSICAL AND MENTAL
A Kamran Shukoor and Ibrahim Tariq Initiative HEALTH
VOLUME: 2

COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION IN
SCHIZOPHRENIA AND BIPOLAR DISORDER
BY VYOMINI TANWAR

Cognitive functioning is the capacity to perform several functions, such as

acquiring knowledge, managing situations, and performing various tasks. These
processes include attention, memory, planning, problem-solving, perception,
decision-making, language, reasoning, and the ability to comprehend social
situations by identifying the emotions of others and correctly responding in various
environments. Neurological disorders, including schizophrenia and bipolar
disorder, can significantly impact the cognitive function of patients and alter their
quality of life.
Cognitive dysfunction is standard in
schizophrenia, with up to 75% of the patients
experiencing symptoms (7). A study done by
an Indian psychiatric journal assessed the
existence of cognitive dysfunction in
patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Through standardized neuropsychological
tests, they correlated those findings with the
sociodemographic and clinical variables of
the subjects. The study revealed that
cognitive impairment affected attention and
concentration, immediate and delayed
memory, language, and executive functions.
Specifically, patients with an illness duration
of more than two years and patients residing
in urban areas had more severe cognitive
dysfunction. In essence, cognitive
dysfunction in schizophrenic patients
results in a slow rate of effectively
processing information and diminished
capacities in performing tasks involving
rapid thinking and rate of response.
Additionally, patients had weaker working
memory (the capacity for maintaining a
limited amount of information in mind) and

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VOLUME: 2

long-term memory, causing the patient to have References

poor control over executive functions used in 1. Bowie, C. R., & Harvey, P. D. (2006).
Cognitive deficits and functional outcome
completing tasks and planning long-term goals. in schizophrenia. Neuropsychiatric
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2. Carvalho, A. F., Bortolato, B., Kamilla
developed illness. Miskowiak, Vieta, E., & Cristiano Köhler.
(2015). Cognitive dysfunction in bipolar
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Investigations of schizophrenia’s effects on review of meta-analyses. Neuropsychiatric
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cognitive dysfunction in other conditions, such as 3. Cowan, N. (2013). Working Memory
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Learning, and Education. Educational
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4. Huang, Y., Zhang, Z., Lin, S., Zhou, H., &
Cognitive deficits have been reported even in Xu, G. (2023). Cognitive Impairment
euthymic (a state of living without mood Mechanism in Patients with Bipolar
disturbances) bipolar patients, with deficits found Disorder. Neuropsychiatric Disease and
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executive function, and attention (8). 5. ‌
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Nevertheless, comparative studies indicate that Zunta-Soares, G. B., & Soares, J. C. (2015).
there are no significant differences in the degree The Management of Cognitive Impairment
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00120
may share similarities regarding the 6. Thompson, J. M., Gallagher, P., Hughes, J.
neurodevelopmental origins of early cognitive H., Watson, S., Gray, J. M., I. Nicol Ferrier,
& Young, A. H. (2005). Neurocognitive
dysfunction (2). Some of these deficiency factors impairment in euthymic patients with
include susceptibility to genes and early bipolar affective disorder. British Journal
psychosocial stress. Treatments such as of Psychiatry, 186(1), 32–40.
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psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy 7. ‌
(CBT), and pharmacological treatments have Talreja, B. T., Shah, S., & Kataria, L. (2013).
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shown promise; however, the efficacy of such its association with socio-demographics
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disorder patients, leaving significant effects on Cavanagh, S. (2000). Functional
the daily lives of these individuals. Continued impairment and cognition in bipolar
disorder. Psychiatric Quarterly, 71(4), 309–
research and targeted interventions are essential 329.
to controlling these cognitive deficits and https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1004632206684
improving the quality of life of those affected.

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THE UNFORTUNATE HISTORY OF STIS

BY KEARA MACKENZIE

STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) have been recorded as far back as ancient
Egypt and Rome (1). They come in wildly different forms–viral, bacterial, and
parasitic–and therefore impact the body in many different ways (18). Today, there
are up to 30 different STIs (2) circulating within the human population through
intercourse, and almost all of them can be prevented and/or cured, with the
exception of 4. Across the planet, though, STI cases are increasing at an alarming
rate (3) (17). Below, I’ll be describing what these major STIs are, why the numbers
are increasing, and how we can protect ourselves from them.

STIs are everywhere. In the mediaeval era, the unsanitary living conditions allowed
gonorrhoea and syphilis to prosper. Some Mesopotamian texts claim that STIs were
gifts from god. One may think that modern times can offer protection from STIs,
but lots of pathogens thrive around humans; they mostly live in moist and warm
areas, like the mouth, water sources, or the genitals. Some cannot live outside of
the body and get passed just as easily through sexual intercourse while others can
live outside of the body for several hours. Sexual infections can also be passed on
during birth; congenital syphilis (syphilis that is passed down from mother to child)
has risen more than 30% in only a year (3). The main difference between sexually
transmitted diseases is whether they are viral or bacterial. Bacteria can actually be
a great thing for our bodies; our digestive tract would not be able to function
without bacteria, for example. Bacteria are organisms that can reproduce on their
own and find the human body a suitable home; when there is an overabundance of
the wrong bacteria, we start to see symptoms. Viruses use our cells to multiply–
hijacking and killing them in the process. Both bacteria and viruses can cause
similar symptoms, so it can be difficult to discern the two (6).

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In the 80’s, we saw the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic that tore through our
society and killed thousands (18). Today, in the 2020s, we’ve seen a very sharp
upturn in syphilis cases (3). Syphilis–unlike HIV/AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency
Virus and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)–is very curable with access to the
correct medicine. During the reign of AIDS, ignorance was the biggest killer.

Today, ignorance still plays a big factor in how susceptible we are to STIs. It was
exacerbated by COVID-19, which saw to the backlog of screening procedures for
STIs. Across the globe, sexual health education is still considered taboo, leading to
more risky sexual behaviour. Many children, even in places like the UK, Canada, and
America, are raised with little awareness of how sex, consent, reproduction, and
sexual disease transmission works. Advocating for these classes at a young age are
important, as understanding how contraception works can likely decrease teen
pregnancy and the spread of STIs at a young age (8). Anyone who engages in sexual
acts can transmit an STI, regardless of their age, gender, or ethnicity. To encourage
sexual health and STI prevention for our children, we must understand that sexual
education and contraceptives are keys to how we conduct our lives, and ignorance
can also be lethal.

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To prevent STIs, there are a myriad of tools at our

References

1. Broadgate GP, The History of STIs: From the Earliest Records to Modern Day

disposal, even in places that have little access to https://www.broadgategp.co.uk/the-history-of-stis-from-the-earliest-records-to-

modern-

medical resources. Something as simple as a

day/#:~:text=The%20first%20mentions%20of%20sexually,common%20problem%20
in%20ancient%20times.

condom makes pregnancy and STIs 98% more 1. Heritage Urgent & Primary Care, “What STDs are Curable?”
https://www.heritageucpc.com/what-stds-are-
curable/#:~:text=Eight%20of%20these%20pathogens%20are,infections%20and%20c
preventable (9). These come in all shapes and annot%20be%20cured.

sizes–you can find condoms in the form of 1. CDC, Jan 30, 2024, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, “Sexually
Transmitted Infections Surveillance, 2022”
https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/2022/default.htm

barriers inserted into the vagina, flavoured 1. Exposed, STDCheck.com Blog, Apr 10, 2023, “How Long Can An STD Live

condoms, or a dental dam, which creates a barrier

Outside The Body?”
https://www.stdcheck.com/blog/std-live-outside-body/

between the mouth and skin for oral sex. These 1. Pfizer, Jack Murtha, “8 Common STDs: What You Need to Know”
https://www.pfizer.com/news/articles/8_common_stds

are all excellent STI prevention methods. On the 1. HealthDirect, Sep 2022, “What is the difference between bacterial and viral
infections?”

other hand, birth control is not a good STI https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bacterial-vs-viral-infection

prevention method. STIs can still thrive in our

1. Planned Parenthood, Jan 2014, “By The Numbers”
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/files/9313/9611/7194/Planned_Parenthood_By_
The_Numbers.pdf

bodies, even if we are on the pill or have gotten a 1. National library of Medicine, Feb 22, 2022, Nicholas Mark and Lawrence Wu
“More comprehensive sex education reduced teen births: Quasi-experimental

vasectomy. In the last decade, chlamydia cases evidence”

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8872707/

have risen 171%. Syphilis has risen a staggering 1. World Health Organization, Feb 12, 2024, “Condoms”
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/condoms

389% (10). If you suspect that you have an STI, 1. Government of Canada, Feb 13, 2023, Public Health Agency of Canada,

contact your closest healthcare provider and any

“Chlamydia, gonorrhoea and infectious syphilis in canada: 2020 (infographic)”
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-
conditions/chlamydia-gonorrhea-infectious-syphilis-canada-2020-

sexual partners you have had within the last infographic.html

month. Transparency is key in every relationship;

1. Government of Canada, Dec 2017, Department of Justice Canada, “Fact sheet -
HIV Non-Disclosure and the Criminal Law”
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-justice/news/2017/12/fact_sheet_hiv_non-

if you are diagnosed with an STI, your sexual disclosureandthecriminallaw.html

1. Exposed, STDcheck.com Blog, Feb 5, 2024, Nick Corlis, “STDs and The Law”

partner has a very high chance of contracting the https://www.stdcheck.com/blog/stds-and-the-

law/#:~:text=That%20being%20said%2C%20it%20is,if%20you%20are%20HIV%2Dpo

same infection. In America and Canada,

sitive.

1. STD Center, “Against the odds: what is your risk of getting an STD through a

intercourse with a partner without informing one-off heterosexual encounter?”

https://stdcenterny.com/articles/std-risk-with-one-time-heterosexual-

them of one knowingly having an STI may even be

encounter.html#:~:text=Females%20are%20three%20times%20more%20likely%20t
o%20get%20gonorrhea&text=It%20can%20be%20sexually%20transmitted,a%20fem
ale%20is%20only%2020%25.

considered assault (11) (12). Most STIs present as 1. Mount Sinai, Nov 10, 2022, “Genital Warts”

either a bladder infection or flu-like symptoms,

https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/genital-
warts#:~:text=HPV%20infection%20spreads%20from%20one,not%20notice%20the
m%20for%20years.

and typically show up within 1-6 weeks of 1. Everlywell, Oct 4, 2023, Dr. Neka Miller, “Are Any STDs Not Curable?”
https://www.everlywell.com/blog/sti-testing/are-any-stds-not-curable/#

infection. Bacterial infections can usually be 1. Mayo Clinic, March 12, 2024, “Sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms”

cured quite easily (Syphilis, Trichomoniasis,

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-
stds/in-depth/std-symptoms/art-20047081

Gonorrhea), while viral infections (Herpes, 1. ABC News, May 21, 2024, Mary Kekatos, “STIs, including syphilis, gonorrhoea,
increasing globally: WHO”

Hepatitis, Human Papillomavirus, Human

https://abcnews.go.com/Health/stis-including-syphilis-gonorrhea-increasing-
globally/story?
id=110428572#:~:text=The%20number%20of%20sexually%20transmitted,World%20

Immunodeficiency Virus) cannot usually be cured Health%20Organization%20(WHO).

and can only be managed with antiviral

1. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, June 1, 2001, “Current Trends
Attributable to HIV Infection/AIDS – United States 1981-1990”, Department of
Health and Human Services

medication(15) (16). https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00001880.htm#:~:text=From%20

1981%20through%201990%2C%20100%2C777,deaths%20were%20reported%20during
%201990.

1. World Health Organization, May 21, 2024, “Sexually Transmitted Infections

(STIs)”
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/sexually-transmitted-
infections-
(stis)#:~:text=Eight%20pathogens%20are%20linked%20to,and%20human%20papillo
mavirus%20(HPV).

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VOLUME: 2

WHAT MAKES SMOKING SO RISKY?

BY YASUKA TSUYUKI

Smoking is widely recognized as a harmful habit, and the World Health

Organization (WHO) designates May 31 as "World No Tobacco Day" to raise
awareness about the detrimental effects of smoking and encourage cessation (4).
One major reason smoking is detrimental to health is the array of toxic substances
in tobacco smoke, including nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. Nicotine is an
alkaloid that causes addiction by stimulating the release of dopamine in the brain,
leading to pleasurable sensations. It also constricts blood vessels, increasing blood
pressure and heart rate, which can contribute to cardiovascular diseases. Carbon
monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells
with a much higher affinity than oxygen. This binding reduces the blood's oxygen-
carrying capacity, leading to tissue hypoxia. Chronic exposure results in increased
blood viscosity as the body attempts to compensate by producing more red blood
cells, which can increase the risk of atherosclerosis and hypertension. Tar, a
composite mixture of chemicals, contains over 70 known carcinogens, including
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and nitrosamines.

Inhalation of tar through cigarette smoke deposits these carcinogens directly into
the lungs, significantly increasing the risk of lung cancer. Studies have shown that
the likelihood of developing lung cancer is approximately four times higher in
smokers compared to non-smokers. Beyond these specific substances, smoking is
associated with numerous health problems, including heart attacks, chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), various cancers, and, in severe cases,
premature death (3).

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VOLUME: 2

Secondhand smoke, or passive smoke, also poses significant health risks.

Individuals exposed to secondhand smoke inhale nicotine, tar, and carbon
monoxide, albeit at different concentrations compared to active smokers.
Specifically, these individuals experience exposure levels of nicotine, tar, and
carbon monoxide that are 2.8, 3.4, and 4.7 times higher, respectively, than those who
are not exposed. This exposure can lead to similar health issues as those faced by
smokers, such as respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and an increased
risk of cancer (5).

While many smokers, approximately 1.1 billion worldwide, with 60% expressing a
desire to quit, turn to e-cigarettes as an alternative, the health implications of these
devices are still under study. Although e-cigarettes typically contain lower levels of
tar and carbon monoxide than traditional cigarettes, they still deliver nicotine and
other potentially harmful substances. The WHO notes that there is currently
insufficient data to fully understand the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes,
given their relatively recent introduction to the market.
References
1. Health effects of cigarette smoking. (2024, May
6). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fa
ct_sheets/health_effects/effects_cig_smoking/
index.htm#:~:text=Smoking%20causes%20stro
ke%20and%20coronary,death%20in%20the%20
United%20States.&text=Even%20people%20wh
o%20smoke%20fewer,early%20signs%20of%20
cardiovascular%20disease.&text=Smoking%20
damages%20blood%20vessels%20and%20can%
20make%20them%20thicken%20and%20grow%
20narrower
2. Smith, J. (n.d.). Why is smoking bad for you?
Medical and health information |
MedicalNewsToday.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/1
0566#benefits-of-quitting
3. Smoking: Effects, risks, addiction, quitting,
treatment. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/1
7488-smoking
4. Tobacco. (2023, July 31). World Health
Organization (WHO).
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-
sheets/detail/tobacco
5. Year of health and care workers 2021. (n.d.).
World Health Organization (WHO).
https://www.who.int/campaigns/annual-
theme/year-of-health-and-care-workers-2021

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VOLUME: 2

TAKING THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET ONE

MEAL AT A TIME
BY KAYLA AMARO
The Mediterranean diet predominantly originates from the regions of modern-day
Greece, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Egypt, and Lebanon. This diet emphasizes consuming
plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, and olive oil as the primary fat source, along with
moderate amounts of dairy, fish, and poultry. Due to the high concentration of these
filling and nutritious foods, ultra-processed and highly sugary foods are minimized
(5).

Many studies have been conducted to support the benefits of the Mediterranean diet.
In 19 recent studies, evidence has shown consistency with improving life expectancy.
"In a study that followed more than 25,000 U.S. women for up to 25 years, researchers
from Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital found that participants who
closely followed the Mediterranean diet had up to a 23 percent lower risk of all-cause
mortality, with benefits for both cancer and cardiovascular health" (3). "In the era of
evidence-based medicine, the Mediterranean diet represents the gold standard in
preventive medicine, probably due to the harmonic combination of many elements
with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which overwhelm any single
nutrient or food item. The whole seems more important than the sum of its parts" (1).

From a biochemical perspective, the Mediterranean diet is rich in monounsaturated

fats, primarily from olive oil, which contain oleic acid (2) —a fatty acid known for its
anti-inflammatory properties (1). These fats help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol
while maintaining or even increasing HDL cholesterol levels, thus supporting
cardiovascular health. The diet also includes high levels of omega-3 fatty acids found
in fish, which contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing triglycerides, blood
pressure, and plaque buildup in arteries. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as
eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play crucial roles in
reducing inflammation and supporting brain health.

Additionally, the polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables act as antioxidants,

protecting cells from oxidative damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases
such as cancer and heart disease (5). These compounds, including flavonoids and
resveratrol, scavenge free radicals and modulate enzyme activities that are involved
in the body's inflammatory response. The high fibre content in whole grains and

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legumes also contributes to better digestive health and can References

aid in the prevention of type 2 diabetes by improving blood 1. National Center for
Biotechnology Information.
glucose control (4). (2018). Mediterranean diet and
longevity. PubMed Central.
Despite being regarded as one of the healthiest diets https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p
mc/articles/PMC5902736/
globally, the Mediterranean diet presents the risk of lower 2. British Journal of Nutrition.
levels of iron and calcium due to the relative scarcity of (n.d.). Mediterranean diet and
longevity. Cambridge Core.
these vitamins/minerals in the diet (6). For example, iron https://www.cambridge.org/core
deficiency might occur due to the lower consumption of /journals/british-journal-of-
nutrition/article/mediterranean-
red meat, a primary source of heme iron. Calcium diet-and-
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EDC1BB58D8B860
3. Harvard Gazette. (2024, June).
Like any diet, the Mediterranean diet may not be suitable Women who follow
Mediterranean diet live longer.
for everyone, especially those with already low iron and Harvard University.
calcium levels. Despite this, the diet's focus on fruits, https://news.harvard.edu/gazette
vegetables, and healthy fats can contribute to a better and /story/2024/06/women-who-
follow-mediterranean-diet-live-
longer life due to the reduced risk of major chronic longer/#:~:text=In%20a%20study
diseases. %20that%20followed,both%20can
cer%20and%20cardiovascular%2
In conclusion, the Mediterranean diet, supported by 0health.
extensive research, shows significant benefits in reducing 4. Harvard Health Publishing.
(2019, March 21). A practical
chronic disease risks through its emphasis on fruits, guide to the Mediterranean diet.
vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Overall, the Harvard University.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/
Mediterranean diet offers a well-rounded guideline for blog/a-practical-guide-to-the-
promoting health and longevity, making it a valuable option mediterranean-diet-
2019032116194
for many individuals trying to improve their overall well- 5. Healthline. (n.d.). The
being. problem with the Mediterranean
diet: We're not talking about
enough.
https://www.healthline.com/nutr
ition/the-problem-with-the-
mediterranean-diet-were-not-
talking-about-enough#The-
Mediterranean-Diet-isnt-
representative-of-the-entire-
Mediterranean-region
6. U.S. National Library of
Medicine. (n.d.). Mediterranean
diet: Medlineplus Medical
Encyclopedia. MedlinePlus.
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ientinstructions/000110.htm

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VOLUME: 2

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW

MRNA CANCER VACCINE TO FIGHT
GLIOBLASTOMA
BY GUMUDA MUNKHJARGAL

Cancer is an incurable terminal disease that can be contracted from basically

anything (up for debate). But recently scientists have developed new vaccines to
help fight a certain type of cancer, brain cancer (2). Glioblastoma is a type of brain
cancer caused when genetic mutations cause a cell to break away from its normal
growth-and-death cycle. This causes a tumour to grow. This type of treatment is
the same way that they made the COVID-19 vaccine (3). mRNA sends messages to
our DNA which codes for specific proteins, this type of vaccine method is uniquely
made for each of the patients.

One of the key advantages of mRNA vaccines is their ability to leverage the body's
immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. These vaccines work by
delivering genetic instructions (mRNA) encoding tumour-specific antigens directly
into the patient's cells. Once inside the cells, the mRNA instructs them to produce
the target antigens, which are then presented to the immune system. This triggers
an immune response, leading to the activation of T cells and the production of
antibodies that can recognize and attack cancer cells expressing the targeted
antigens (1). But with every good thing comes bad side effects such as anaphylaxis (a
deathly allergic reaction), antibody-dependent enhancements, and deaths.

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VOLUME: 2

There are several reasons why it's more effective References:

compared to known cancer treatments. The 1. UF-developed mrna vaccine triggers
fierce immune response to fight malignant
mRNA cells can identify the cancer cells and brain tumor " cancer center " UF health
effectively eliminate them. This results in a better cancer center " university of Florida. UF
impact than normal cancer procedures like Health monogram. (n.d.).
https://cancer.ufl.edu/2024/05/01/uf-
chemotherapy. A study from The National developed-mrna-vaccine-triggers-fierce-
Institute of Health reports that mRNA cancer immune-response-to-fight-m alignant-
brain-tumor/
vaccines are 15% more effective than normal 2. Khan, F. A., Akhtar, S. S., & Sheikh, M. K.
treatment (1). Even though that doesn't seem like (2005). Cancer treatment - objectives and
quality of life issues. The Malaysian
much it means that an additional 8 million people Journal of Medical Sciences : MJMS, 12(1),
are going to be cured. Furthermore, mRNA 3–5.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article
vaccines have the advantage of adaptability. s/PMC3349406/#:~:text=Nowadays%2C%2
Glioblastoma tumours often evolve and develop 030%25%20of%20 all%20 cancers
3. Pelc, C. (2024, May 7). New mRNA cancer
resistance to treatment over time. mRNA vaccines vaccine helps immune system fight deadly
can be designed to target multiple tumour brain tumors. Medicalnewstoday.com;
antigens simultaneously, making it more difficult Medical News Today.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articl
for cancer cells to evade detection by the immune es/mrna-cancer-vaccine-helps-fight-
system. In general many more functional deadly-brain-tumors#mRN A-vaccine-
triggers-effective-immune-response
medications for glioblastoma are being
researched and tested. The new technology that
we can acquire the better impact it can have on
our medical understanding of our world.

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DOES MENTAL HEALTH INFLUENCE

PHYSICAL HEALTH?
BY MAKAYLA ANDERSEN

The intricate interplay between mental and physical health reveals profound
biochemical mechanisms that link psychological states to physiological outcomes.
Historically viewed as separate domains, evidence may suggest a link between the
two via certain biological pathways.

A primary pathway linking mental and physical health is the hypothalamic-

pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the body's response to stress. When
an individual experiences stress, the hypothalamus secretes corticotropin-
releasing hormone (CRH), stimulating the pituitary gland to release
adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH prompts the adrenal glands to
produce cortisol, a hormone that prepares the body for a 'fight or flight' response.
Chronic stress increases the risk of heart disease and hypertension by 40-60% and
is linked to inflammatory processes that contribute to autoimmune diseases and
impaired immune responses (3).

Depression and anxiety, two prevalent mental health disorders, are closely
associated with chronic physical conditions. Individuals with depression have a 1.5
to 2 times greater risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes (1).
Anxiety disorders are linked to an increased incidence of chronic respiratory
conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic pain syndromes.

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Mental health disorders significantly influence References:

health behaviours, contributing to physical health 1. UF-developed mrna vaccine triggers
fierce immune response to fight
outcomes. Individuals with mental health issues malignant brain tumor " cancer
often engage in detrimental behaviours such as center " UF health cancer center "
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overeating, and physical inactivity. Depression is https://cancer.ufl.edu/2024/05/01/uf-
linked to a 50% higher likelihood of smoking and a developed-mrna-vaccine-triggers-
fierce-immune-response-to-fight-m
60% increased risk of developing obesity (1). alignant-brain-tumor/
Mental health conditions can also impair 2. Khan, F. A., Akhtar, S. S., & Sheikh, M.
K. (2005). Cancer treatment -
adherence to medical treatments and preventive objectives and quality of life issues.
health measures, with depression associated with The Malaysian Journal of Medical
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regimens. ticles/PMC3349406/#:~:text=Nowaday
s%2C%2030%25%20of%20 all%20
cancers
Sleep disorders are a common consequence of 3. Pelc, C. (2024, May 7). New mRNA
mental health conditions, with significant cancer vaccine helps immune system
fight deadly brain tumors.
implications for physical health. Depression and Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical
anxiety often disrupt sleep patterns, leading to News Today.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
conditions such as insomnia. Insufficient sleep is articles/mrna-cancer-vaccine-helps-
linked to a weakened immune system, metabolic fight-deadly-brain-tumors#mRN A-
vaccine-triggers-effective-immune-
dysregulation, and cognitive impairments. response
Individuals with chronic insomnia have a two-
fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes
and a 48% higher risk of cardiovascular disease (1).
Poor sleep quality can also exacerbate mental
health conditions, creating a cycle of
deteriorating health.

Fig. 2. C. Giebel, Reported relationship between physical and mental health

comorbidity and service use for total sample. Error bars represent standard
error of the mean. A&E = accident and emergency department, 2019

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There is a bidirectional relationship

between chronic pain and mental health Promoting mental well-being extends
disorders. Conditions like fibromyalgia beyond treating mental illness to fostering
and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), resilience, stress management skills, and
though physically manifesting, are supportive social networks. Interventions
closely linked to psychological factors. such as cognitive-behavioral therapy
Chronic pain can lead to depression and (CBT), mindfulness-based stress
anxiety, while mental health conditions reduction (MBSR), and social support
can amplify the perception of pain. Up to
programs have demonstrated efficacy in
50% of individuals with chronic pain also
suffer from depression, and individuals improving both mental and physical
with depression are three times more health outcomes. CBT reduces symptoms
likely to develop chronic pain conditions of depression and anxiety, improves
(2). adherence to medical treatments, and
enhances overall quality of life. MBSR
The social dimensions of mental health programs reduce stress, improve immune
significantly impact physical well-being.
function, and better manage chronic
Mental health conditions can lead to
diseases (3).
social isolation, which is associated with
a 29% increased risk of mortality and
poorer physical health outcomes (2). The In conclusion, acknowledging the
stigma and discrimination associated interdependence of mental and physical
with mental illness can exacerbate health is pivotal in shaping health care
stress, leading to further health policies, treatment plans, and our
deterioration. everyday approach to well-being.

Recognizing the intertwined

relationship between mental and
physical health calls for a holistic References:
1. Diabetes and mental health - Diabetes Canada. (n.d.).
approach to healthcare. Integrated care DiabetesCanadaWebsite. https://www.diabetes.ca/health-
care-providers/clinical-practice-guidelines/chapter-
models that combine mental health 18#panel-tab_FullText
2. Insomnia and risk of cardiovascular disease. (n.d.). PubMed
services, primary care, and preventive Central (PMC).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5577359/
measures have shown promising results. 3. Physiology, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
Collaborative care models for - StatPearls - NCBI bookshelf. (2023, August 8).
National Center for Biotechnology Information.
depression in primary care settings https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500031/
4. WebMD Editorial Contributor. (2021, March 30). How does
improve depression symptoms and mental health affect physical health. WebMD.

physical health outcomes, such as

https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/how-does-
mental-health-affect-physical-health

reduced pain and better chronic disease

management.

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 THIS LETTER WAS APPROVED BY CO-FOUNDERS
KAMRAN SHUKOOR AND IBRAHIM TARIQ
VOLUME: 2
DESIGNED BY
ALICE NAYEON-KIM AND ANN ZEHRA JAFRI
PUBLISHED BY
Furthermore, gene therapy is also evolving
MIRA TSUI as part of regenerative medicine.

In gene therapy, abnormal functionsEDITED BY

in the body are repaired or new
RABIA MASOOD, LANNY HYUNH, ANDREA RUSU,
functions are introduced via
LYNN genes.
NGUYEN, This
MON makes
MYAT itAND
NOE ZAY, possible
SIYA to treat diseases
and cancers caused by genes. PATEL

Advances in regenerative medicine are brightening the future of medicine,

but many challenges still remain. These include safety, development of
effective treatments, and ethical issues. However, with continued research
and technological innovation, regenerative medicine will evolve further in
the future and become an important field that will support the lives and
health of many patients.

References
1. Regenerative medicine - Latest research and news | Nature.
(2023, August 29). Nature.
https://www.nature.com/subjects/regenerative-medicine
2. Shah, R. (2024, May 2). Global regenerative medicine industry |
FMI Inc. FMIBlog. https://www.fmiblog.com/2024/05/02/global-
regenerative-medicine-industry/
3. U of T, hospitals launch pilot program to boost
commercialization of medical innovations. (2024, April 24).
University of Toronto. https://www.utoronto.ca/news/u-t-
hospitals-launch-pilot-program-boost-commercialization-
medical-innovations
4. 再生医療について. (n.d.). ホーム｜厚生労働省.
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/kenkou_iryo
u/iryou/saisei_iryou/index.html
5. 再生医療等の国民が迅速かつ安全に受けられるようにするため
の施策の総合的な推進に関する法律. (n.d.). ホーム｜厚生労働省.
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000150847.
html

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