A comprehensive study has brought to light the unsettling presence of carcinogens in everyday personal care items, prompting a critical evaluation of consumer safety. The extensive analysis conducted in California in 2020 revealed that households and businesses were responsible for emitting over 5,000 tons of chemicals recognized for their carcinogenic […]
The Most Dangerous Tree on Earth
The Manchineel tree, native to the Caribbean and parts of the Americas, is infamous for its deadly properties. Nicola Strickland, a radiologist, had a harrowing encounter with it during a trip to Tobago in 1999. While innocently tasting the small, yellow-green fruits that had fallen from the tree, she and […]
Where Nuclear Waste Really Ends up
Nuclear power – it’s a term that ignites various emotions. From its undeniable potential to the challenges it poses, this energy source remains a focal point of global discussion. As you browse through the offerings on AfricaNova, it’s time to shed light on nuclear power, specifically focusing on its potential […]
Can E-cigarettes Really Help Quit Smoking?
The quest to quit smoking has seen many turn to vaping, hoping it might be the answer. But how effective are e-cigarettes really? Australia’s Health Minister Mark Butler’s recent policy announcement aimed to curtail vaping among minors and nonsmokers, while simultaneously offering a nicotine fix for those trying to quit. […]
Honey’s Untapped Medicinal Uses
Honey, that golden elixir, isn’t merely a delightful sweetener. Recent scientific explorations back what ancient civilizations, including Greece and some African communities, have known for centuries: honey possesses medicinal properties. From Aristotle to Modern Science Aristotle, way back in 350BC, recognized the potential of different honeys in addressing various diseases. […]
Why Salt Boosts Flavour In Your Dishes
Have you ever wondered why a pinch of salt can transform a dish from average to extraordinary? Let’s uncover the science behind this culinary phenomenon. It’s essential to note that “saltiness” is one of the primary basic flavors detected by our taste buds, alongside bitter, sweet, sour, and umami. Salt […]
The Papua New Guinea Epidemic
In the picturesque terrains of Papua New Guinea, the Fore people had lived harmoniously for centuries. However, in the 20th century, they became the epicenter of a terrifying neurological epidemic called Kuru, a name that invokes trembling. 1. An Enigmatic Epidemic Symptoms began subtly: headaches, joint pain, tremors, progressing to […]
How to Prepare For A C-Section as an Expectant Parent
Amidst the wealth of pregnancy advice, discussions about the nuances of cesarean sections can often be overlooked. Whether it’s a planned procedure or an unexpected requirement, understanding the essentials of cesarean delivery is crucial for informed decision-making and emotional preparedness. Why Cesareans Happen Cesarean sections, although commonly performed for medical […]
Is The Baboon Heart in Baby Fae A Medical Miracle or Ethical Misstep?
When South African surgeon Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first human heart transplant in 1967, it changed medicine forever. Fast forward a few years, and we come across a gripping story from Barstow Hospital. A young baby, Stephanie Fae Beauclair, affectionately known as Baby Fae, was diagnosed with a rare […]