September 10, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: Health

Weizmann Scientists Unveil Blood Test That Could Detect Leukemia Risk and Gauge Pace of Aging

A groundbreaking new study by researchers at Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science may soon revolutionize how we diagnose blood cancers and understand aging. Published today in Nature Medicine, the research led by Profs. Liran Shlush and Amos Tanay introduces a simple blood test that could replace painful bone marrow biopsies for detecting early signs of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) — a precursor to leukemia. The study arrives under extraordinary circumstances, just days after the researchers’ labs sustained serious damage in an Iranian missile strike. Yet, despite the upheaval, their findings are poised to create lasting impact. A New Window into Aging and Disease The scientists have been tracking how blood-forming stem cells change with age. Their earlier research revealed that about one-third of individuals over 40 begin to accumulate mutations in these cells — mutations linked not only to leukemia but also to heart disease and diabetes. In the latest study, Dr. Nili Furer, Nimrod Rappoport, and Oren Milman, together with collaborators in Israel and the U.S., showed that even rare stem cells that temporarily leave the bone marrow and enter the bloodstream carry vital diagnostic information. By applying cutting-edge single-cell genetic sequencing to these cells, researchers could identify signs of MDS — a condition where stem cells don’t mature correctly, potentially leading to severe anemia or progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). A Less Invasive, More Insightful Test Until now, MDS diagnosis depended on invasive bone marrow sampling. The new blood test promises to change that. It not only flags MDS early but may also evaluate the risk of progression to leukemia, making it a vital tool for prevention and early intervention. The researchers also found that these circulating stem cells act as an internal “aging clock.” Intriguingly, the cells undergo changes earlier in men than in women — possibly shedding light on why blood cancers are more prevalent among males. Broad Potential, Global Trials The innovation is now undergoing clinical trials at medical centers worldwide. Scientists believe that this technology could eventually be used to detect a wide range of blood-related diseases beyond leukemia. Bridging Medicine and Science Beyond his lab work, Prof. Liran Shlush plays a central role in shaping the future of medicine. He is a senior physician at Assuta Medical Center and Maccabi Healthcare Services, and he now heads the newly founded Miriam and Aaron Gutwirth Medical School at the Weizmann Institute. The school, opening in October, aims to blend scientific research and clinical training into a unified curriculum — preparing a new generation of physician-scientists who can navigate both the lab bench and the hospital ward with equal skill. This landmark study not only underscores the Weizmann Institute’s global leadership in biomedical research but also offers hope that one day, a routine blood test could help detect — and possibly prevent — life-threatening diseases long before symptoms appear.

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Kerala Cancer Survey Reveals High Awareness But Low Screening Rates: AMPOK

A recent statewide survey conducted by the Association of Medical and Pediatric Oncologists of Kerala (AMPOK) has revealed a concerning disconnect between cancer awareness and preventive action among Kerala’s population. While general awareness about risk factors like smoking and alcohol remains high, the actual uptake of preventive screenings is alarmingly low. Key Findings: Dr Aju Mathew, organising chairman of AMPOK, said the survey sheds light on both progress and persistent gaps: “While high general awareness is encouraging, the knowledge deficit in specific preventive tools like vaccination and genetic testing, along with low screening rates, is alarming. The influence of celebrity culture on youth substance abuse also needs urgent public health intervention.” Encouraging Signs, Persistent Myths Despite improvements in societal attitudes toward cancer, misinformation persists: Dr Boban Thomas, organising secretary of AMPOK, emphasized the importance of early detection: “Many cancers today are treatable like chronic illnesses. In some types, early detection offers cure rates up to 99%. We need to shift the public mindset from fear to proactive care.” Survey Methodology and Demographics Call to Action AMPOK stresses that this data must serve as a wake-up call for both health authorities and the public. To combat Kerala’s rising cancer burden, the emphasis must shift from awareness alone to actionable preventive care, including: As Kerala grapples with the dual burden of lifestyle changes and an ageing population, early detection and responsible public messaging will be key pillars in the fight against cancer.

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Editor04 mins

99-Million-Year-Old Amber Reveals ‘Zombie Fungus’ Controlling Ancient Insects

In an astonishing discovery, scientists have uncovered 99-million-year-old amber fossils showing insects infected by a type of “zombie fungus”—offering the earliest known evidence of fungi manipulating insect behavior. The fossils, found in Myanmar, feature a fly and a young ant preserved mid-infection by parasitic fungi. The insects were likely killed by the fungi, then trapped in sticky tree resin that later fossilized into amber during the Cretaceous period, around the time of the dinosaurs. Oldest Evidence of Fungal Mind Control Researchers from Yunnan University in China studied the fossils using advanced microscopy and 3D scanning techniques. The study was led by Yuhui Zhuang, who told : “These two fossils are extremely rare—among the tens of thousands of amber specimens we’ve seen, very few show such clear fungal-insect interaction.” The discovery sheds new light on the ancient relationship between insects and Ophiocordyceps fungi—a group known today for turning ants into so-called “zombies” by hijacking their nervous systems. What Is Zombie Fungus? Modern zombie-ant fungi, such as Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, infect insects like ants by entering their bodies, often through soft joints. The fungus then controls the host’s behavior, forcing it to climb to elevated spots, where it dies and the fungus releases spores to infect others. This eerie behavior has inspired pop culture, including the hit video game and HBO series The Last of Us. The fossilized ant appears to have been under similar control, suggesting these behavioral manipulation strategies existed tens of millions of years earlier than previously believed. Even more surprising is the infected fly, since modern zombie fungi rarely target flies, making this fossil exceptionally rare and scientifically valuable. Why It Matters According to Zhuang: “These findings suggest that ancient terrestrial ecosystems were already quite complex and that fungi may have played a significant role in regulating insect populations—even in the age of dinosaurs.” Parasitic fungi like Ophiocordyceps are crucial to modern ecosystems because they naturally limit insect populations. This new discovery shows they may have been performing this role for nearly 100 million years. Unseen Biodiversity in Amber While amber is a treasure trove of prehistoric life, scientists warn that it reveals only a small fraction of past ecosystems. Many insects likely carried invisible parasites, bacteria, or fungi that are almost impossible to detect in fossils. Still, every such discovery adds a new piece to the puzzle of Earth’s evolutionary history. These fossilized interactions offer a rare glimpse into a prehistoric world where fungi were already manipulating and killing insects—an ancient war of nature frozen in time.

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Single Dose of Psilocybin Shows Long-Term Relief from Depression and Anxiety in Cancer Patients: Study

A groundbreaking new study published in Cancer, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, suggests that a single dose of psilocybin—the active compound in magic mushrooms—combined with psychological support, may offer long-lasting relief from depression and anxiety in cancer patients. 📊 Key Findings from the Study: 🧪 Current and Future Research An ongoing randomised, double-blind trial is evaluating up to two doses of psilocybin versus placebo to determine whether repeat dosing can increase the proportion of patients achieving full remission. Dr. Manish Agrawal, lead author and oncologist at Sunstone Therapies, stated: “One dose of psilocybin with psychological support has a long-term positive impact… We’re exploring whether repeating the treatment resolves depression for more than half of the patients.” 🧠 Why This Matters: 🌱 What’s Next? If these promising results are confirmed in larger studies, psilocybin-assisted therapy could emerge as a transformative approach in supporting the emotional well-being of people living with cancer.

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Editor03 mins

Discovery of New Bat Viruses in China Sparks Concern Over Future Zoonotic Threats

A recent study has identified 22 previously unknown viruses in the kidney tissues of 142 bats collected from Yunnan province, China, between 2017 and 2021, according to reports by Newsweek and The Sun. Among them, two viruses show genetic similarities to the deadly Hendra and Nipah henipaviruses, both known for causing severe brain inflammation and respiratory illness in humans. 🔬 Key Discoveries from the Study: ⚠️ Why This Matters: The findings come in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, which also originated from China and raised global awareness about zoonotic viruses — those that spill over from animals to humans. While no direct threat has yet been reported from these newly found viruses, researchers have warned about their zoonotic potential. Molecular virologist Prof. Vinod Balasubramaniam said the discovery is “concerning” due to the location of the viruses in kidneys, potentially allowing urine to contaminate fruits or water supplies, especially in regions with close human-animal proximity. 🧬 Context & Implications: 📌 FAQs 1. Is the China bat virus dangerous? While the newly found viruses haven’t infected humans yet, scientists have called them “critical zoonotic threats” that require urgent surveillance. 2. Could there be another pandemic from bats? There is no current evidence of an imminent pandemic. However, the risk of spillover events continues to exist due to close human-wildlife interactions. 3. What virus is spreading in China? Researchers recently discovered 20+ new viruses in bats, but none have been reported as spreading among humans. Monitoring is ongoing. 🧪 Bottom Line: This research serves as a timely reminder that early detection and ecological surveillance are critical in preventing the next potential pandemic. Scientists are urging global health agencies to step up monitoring of zoonotic reservoirs, especially in regions with dense wildlife-human interfaces.

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Editor04 mins

Is Coffee the Secret to Aging Gracefully? Harvard-Backed Study Suggests Yes

Coffee has long enjoyed a reputation as a health-boosting beverage, thanks to its rich antioxidant profile and stimulating compound, caffeine. Now, a major new study led by Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health adds yet another benefit to your daily cup: it might help you age more healthily. ☕ Coffee and Healthy Aging: What the Study Found Over the course of 30 years, researchers tracked 47,513 women from the US Nurses’ Health Study, all aged 45 to 60 when the study began in the 1980s. To be classified as “healthy agers,” participants had to reach the age of 70 without major chronic diseases (like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or stroke) and maintain good physical, mental, and cognitive function. Of the participants, 3,706 women met this stringent criteria, and coffee consumption proved to be a common thread among them. Specifically: 🔬 Why Coffee Works Beyond Caffeine Interestingly, other caffeine sources like cola and decaffeinated coffee did not offer the same protective effects—in fact, cola consumption was linked to lower odds of healthy aging. This suggests that coffee’s unique blend of bioactive compounds, including: …may reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and support brain and cardiovascular health in ways other drinks can’t. 💡 Key Takeaways 🧠 Final Brewed Wisdom According to Dr. Sara Mahdavi, lead author of the study: “Our study is the first to assess coffee’s impact across multiple domains of aging over three decades. While the benefits are modest, they highlight how small, consistent habits can shape long-term health.” So, while coffee won’t replace regular exercise, a healthy diet, or other good habits, it could be a powerful (and delicious) part of your healthy aging toolkit. Go ahead—pour yourself another cup. Just maybe skip the sugar and cream if you want the full benefits.

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Editor04 mins

FDA Approves Gilead’s Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Shot Yeztugo, But Pricing Raises Access Concerns

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Gilead Sciences’ lenacapavir — a twice-yearly injectable drug to prevent HIV infection — in a move hailed as a historic breakthrough in the decades-long battle against the virus. Marketed under the brand name Yeztugo, the drug is the first twice-yearly pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) treatment to receive FDA approval. “This is a historic day in the decades-long fight against HIV,” said Daniel O’Day, Chairman and CEO of Gilead Sciences, following the announcement. A Potential Game-Changer in HIV Prevention Unlike previous PrEP options like Truvada, which require daily pills, Yeztugo offers a bi-annual injection that has demonstrated exceptional efficacy. In clinical trials involving over 4,000 participants: Only two infections were reported across all study participants. The results, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, earned lenacapavir the 2024 “Breakthrough of the Year” title by Science magazine. Reported side effects included mild injection site reactions, headache, and nausea. Affordability and Equity Concerns Despite its promise, the $28,218 annual list price in the U.S. has raised significant concerns among activists, researchers, and public health experts, particularly those fighting for access in low- and middle-income countries. Gilead spokesperson Blair Baumwell said the pricing is “in line” with other PrEP products, and the company expects broad insurance coverage to support access. However, critics argue the pricing is a major obstacle. “Even high-income countries will not be able to afford widespread use of lenacapavir at prices above $20,000 per year,” warned Andrew Hill, researcher at Liverpool University, who has shown that the drug could be mass-produced for as little as $25 per year. Global Access Plans Underway In an effort to expand global access, Gilead signed agreements in October 2024 with six pharmaceutical companies to manufacture generic versions of lenacapavir for 120 low- and middle-income countries, pending regulatory approvals. Additionally, a separate deal with the Global Fund, the UN, and PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) aims to supply the drug to 2 million people. However, budget cuts to PEPFAR under the Trump administration have cast doubt on the sustainability of this effort. A Global Turning Point — If Accessible UN Under-Secretary-General Winnie Byanyima emphasized the importance of equitable pricing: “Lenacapavir could be the tool we need to bring new infections under control — but only if it is priced affordably and made available to everyone who could benefit.” As the HIV/AIDS community celebrates this scientific milestone, pressure is now mounting on Gilead and global health institutions to ensure that cost doesn’t become a barrier to what could be a revolutionary tool in ending the HIV epidemic.

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Editor04 mins

The Hidden Cost of Protein: Experts Warn of Kidney Stress Amid India’s High-Protein Craze

As protein-rich diets and supplement use skyrocket across India, driven by fitness trends and social media influencers, health experts are raising red flags about a growing but largely invisible health crisis: chronic stress on the kidneys. From gym enthusiasts chugging protein shakes to busy professionals relying on bars and powders, protein is increasingly seen as a shortcut to wellness. But behind the performance push lies a silent risk—to the body’s most underappreciated organs. Protein Overload and the Kidney Burden Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. But excessive intake—especially from concentrated sources like animal protein, whey supplements, and powders—can overwork the kidneys. These organs filter nitrogenous waste like urea and creatinine, byproducts of protein breakdown, and an overload can trigger a state called hyperfiltration. While initially asymptomatic, prolonged hyperfiltration can cause micro-damage to the kidneys, especially in individuals with preexisting conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or genetic renal vulnerabilities. “It’s like revving a car engine at full throttle every day. Eventually, parts wear out,” said a nephrologist from AIIMS Delhi, who noted an alarming uptick in young adults showing early signs of proteinuria and reduced kidney function. ICMR Issues Advisory on Protein Use Recognizing the potential threat, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has updated its dietary guidelines, urging caution in supplement use, especially by non-athletes and those without a medical need. The ICMR notes that intake beyond 1.5–2 grams per kilogram of body weight can not only tax the kidneys but also lead to calcium depletion, bone density issues, and an increased acid load in the body. In contrast, plant-based proteins such as lentils, soy, and nuts are found to be less harmful to kidney health than red meat or dairy-based powders. Fitness Boom, Health Bust? India’s sports nutrition market, now worth over ₹7,000 crore, is booming. But health experts caution that many adolescents and young adults are self-medicating with protein, unaware of the risks. “Protein myths have replaced science,” says dietitian Shalini Bhargava. “People believe more protein means more fitness, but they forget that the kidneys can’t raise an alarm until the damage is already done.” The Path Forward: Balance Over Hype Doctors recommend adults aim for 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, unless higher intake is medically advised. Those on high-protein regimens—especially with chronic conditions—should monitor their eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) and urinary albumin levels regularly. In the quest for better bodies and stronger lifestyles, experts stress a simple mantra: moderation matters. Chasing health should not come at the cost of silent organ damage. “Fuel your body wisely,” says Bhargava. “Because no workout can fix a failing kidney.”

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Editor04 mins

COVID-19 Update: India Sees Dip in Cases, But New Variants Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) and Stratus (XFG) Raise Concerns

While India’s active COVID-19 caseload has dropped to around 6,400, the emergence of two new variants—NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) and XFG (Stratus)—has medical experts and health authorities urging caution. Though recent trends suggest a seasonal or short-term “mini-wave,” the fast spread of these variants underscores the need for awareness and preventive action. 📉 A Dip in Cases, But Not Time to Relax Earlier this week, daily cases hovered near the 7,400 mark, sparking fears of another potential wave. However, the recent dip has brought some relief. Experts believe this spike may be seasonal, not indicative of a full-scale resurgence like Delta or early Omicron phases. Importantly, ICU occupancy remains minimal, signaling less severity in terms of hospitalization. 🦠 Meet the New Variants: Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) & Stratus (XFG) ❗ Key Symptoms Both new variants come with some distinctive symptoms: ⚠️ Are They More Dangerous? As of April 2025: 💉 Vaccines Still Effective Doctors and scientists confirm that COVID-19 vaccines remain effective against both new variants. Booster doses offer additional protection, especially important for high-risk individuals. Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations continues to be one of the most reliable defenses against infection. 🛡️ Stay Safe, Stay Alert Even as case numbers stabilize, experts urge the public to: In short, while the current COVID-19 wave appears mild, the fast-evolving nature of the virus requires continued vigilance and responsible behavior to keep the spread under control.

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Editor04 mins

Covid-19 Death Toll Crosses 100 in India; Experts Urge Caution, Not Panic

India’s Covid-19 death toll has crossed the 100-mark in the current wave, reaching 108 after 11 deaths were reported on Monday — the highest single-day toll so far. Kerala, the worst-hit state in the recent surge, reported seven deaths, while one death each was reported from Delhi, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. All seven victims from Kerala were above 60 years of age and had underlying health conditions such as cancer, pancreatitis, kidney disease, and pneumonia. The victim from Delhi was a 67-year-old man with a history of lung cancer. Senior health ministry officials reiterated that the majority of Covid-19 fatalities involve individuals with comorbidities. Currently, Kerala has the highest number of active cases (1,920), followed by Gujarat (1,433), Delhi (649), and Maharashtra (540). States like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana have also reported cases in recent days. Experts suspect the surge is driven by new sub-variants of the coronavirus, capable of evading immunity from past infections and vaccinations. However, these variants are not causing severe illness. Dr. Rommel Tickoo, director of internal medicine at Max Saket, emphasized that most infections resemble common flu and require only symptomatic treatment and isolation. “There is no need for widespread testing or panic,” he said. Most cases are being managed at home. Still, the Union Health Ministry has issued advisories to all states to ensure readiness of hospitals, including the availability of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines, as a precautionary measure.

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