International health news

A new study published in The Lancet claims that members of an Amazon tribe in Bolivia have some of the healthiest hearts in the world. Members of the tribe eat few fats and many fibers, and live a physically active lifestyle. The new research can help scientists discover the secret to a healthy heart, as rates of heart disease have been increasing in developed countries.

The Task Force on Women’s and Family Health of the Center for Strategic and International Studies conducted an 18-month study in low income countries and concluded that strategic investments in women’s healthcare can empower women and young girls. The success of women in society can then lead to economic growth and security.

Country updates

New research from the United States shows the positive effects of a cholesterol drug on heart disease. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that the medication cut the risk of heart attack by 15-20%. This result is sparking debate over the high cost of the drug, which insurance companies are resisting to cover.

Treatment for tuberculosis is still lacking in Ethiopia. A study published in BMC Infectious Diseases studied the prevalence of the disease in Central Ethiopia and found that the number undetected cases is equal to that of which are treated.

So-called ‘deaths of despair’, caused by drugs, alcohol and suicide, are on the rise among middle-aged Americans. A new Princeton study traces the causes to, among other things, prescriptions of opioids and unemployment.

Health advice

A norovirus outbreak in Canada has prompted the shutdown of several oyster firms, while many others have voluntarily stopped selling. The Public Health Agency of Canada has warned that infected oysters may still be on the market.

The company OK Food, based in Oklahoma City, is recalling more than 933,000 pounds of breaded chicken products amid worries over metal contamination. People who bought the product have been advised to throw it away or return it to the store where it was bought.

Last Monday was International Happiness Day. Doctor and author Mark Rowe suggests that we can make our lives happier with some simple changes, like being kind to others and not being too hard on ourselves, value personal relationships and exercise.