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Health Check

How do we know when a mystery illness is serious?

Dec 6, 2023
Learn how mysterious illnesses are identified and investigated, including the outbreak of anthrax in Uganda. Discover the power of the ProMed network in detecting and reporting global disease outbreaks. Explore the impact of unfiltered air from rush-hour traffic on blood pressure. Understand how a new method can analyze the aging of organs in humans, predicting disease risk and the effects of aging.
26:26

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Disease surveillance networks like ProMed play a crucial role in detecting and reporting outbreaks early, helping to mobilize resources and prevent the spread of diseases.
  • Exposure to air pollution, especially during heavy traffic, can significantly impact blood pressure, highlighting the importance of reducing exposure and using car ventilation systems with air filters.

Deep dives

Anthrax Outbreak in Uganda

An outbreak of anthrax has been confirmed in Uganda, causing the deaths of 17 people. Anthrax is a rare bacterial disease that spreads from animals to humans, often through the consumption of contaminated meat. It can be serious and even fatal, with symptoms including swelling, pain, and difficulty breathing. The disease is preventable through vaccinations, but many African countries do not vaccinate against anthrax, leading to continued outbreaks. Disease surveillance networks like ProMed play a crucial role in detecting and reporting outbreaks early, helping to mobilize resources and prevent the spread of diseases.

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