International Health News

Doctors at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) have stated that frequent global travel could turn the latest outbreak of yellow fever in Brazil into a serious international health threat. So far at least 113 people have been killed by the disease in Brazil.

In honour of International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced last Wednesday that the Canadian government will spend $650 million on sexual and reproductive initiatives around the world. The move sees Canada join a number of countries working to fill the gap left by America’s reinstated global gag rule.

Country Updates

In 2018, 14 million Americans will lose healthcare coverage under the new Republican healthcare legislation. Analysis by the Congressional Budget Office shows this figure is set to reach 24 million by 2026.

A new scheme has been set up in the UAE to help prevent the development of Alzheimer’s in elderly expats. A group has been set up in Jumeirah, Dubai for around 50 residents with arts and crafts activities to keep participants’ brains active. It will take place once a month and is open to anyone.

A recent survey by Expat Insider named Taiwan the best country for female expats’ health. 97% of respondents in Taiwan rated the quality and affordability of healthcare positively, with three-quarters stating them as ‘very good’.

Health Advice

In the ongoing debate surrounding the benefits/dangers of gluten, scientists at Harvard University have stated that cutting out gluten could increase the risk of diabetes. Dietician Sam Gill added that removing gluten from your diet is only necessary for coeliacs.

A report by scientists in the US shows that using social media for over two hours a day doubles the risk of social isolation. Reduced real-world interactions, as well as increased exposure to idealised portrayals of people’s lives, can make people feel more socially excluded.