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See - Sada Elbalad
20 hours ago
- Health
- See - Sada Elbalad
Urinary Tract Infections in Summer
Dr. Magdy Badran Summer brings sunshine, travel, and outdoor fun—but also a higher risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Hot weather increases sweating and dehydration, reducing urine flow. Less frequent urination allows bacteria to grow in the urinary tract. Studies show a seasonal spike in UTI cases during warmer months in both hospital and community settings. Recognizing this pattern helps in planning preventive care and early intervention during summer. What is a Urinary Tract Infection? A Urinary Tract Infection is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary system. This includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, though most UTIs affect the bladder and urethra. The most common cause is bacteria, especially Escherichia coli (E. coli) from the digestive tract. Prevalence Urinary tract infections show a clear seasonal increase during summer, with cases rising by up to 10–30% in hotter months compared to winter. Studies reveal that UTI risk increases significantly when temperatures exceed 25–30 °C, especially among women, children, and the elderly. Hospital emergency visits and outpatient consultations for UTIs spike during this period, and antibiotic prescriptions also rise by 8–20%. A Seasonal Public Health Issue Urinary tract infections are a significant public health issue due to their high prevalence, especially among women, children, and the elderly. During the summer months, the incidence of UTIs rises sharply because of heat, dehydration, and increased exposure to bacteria through swimming and outdoor activities. This seasonal spike places added pressure on healthcare systems and increases the use of antibiotics, contributing to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. If left untreated, UTIs can lead to serious complications. Addressing UTIs through prevention, early diagnosis, hygiene education, and responsible antibiotic use is essential for protecting individual and community health. Swimming in Contaminated Water Swimming in contaminated water, especially in lakes, rivers, or poorly maintained pools, increases the risk of UTIs. Such water can carry harmful bacteria that may enter the urethra during or after swimming. Chlorinated pools offer some protection, but improper maintenance still poses a risk. Public hot tubs, if not cleaned regularly, can harbor UTI-causing microbes. Urination after swimming helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract. Changing into dry clothes immediately after swimming reduces prolonged exposure to moisture. Teaching children to avoid swallowing water and practicing good hygiene after swimming is important. Complications of UTIs If left untreated, a urinary tract infection (UTI) can lead to serious complications. Infection may spread from the urinary tract into the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Recurrent UTIs can occur, especially in women, causing repeated discomfort and need for antibiotics. Chronic infections may lead to bladder inflammation (cystitis) and reduced bladder function over time. In pregnant women, UTIs can increase the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight. Hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus slow urine flow, raising infection risk. UTIs during pregnancy may go unnoticed, making routine screening important. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys and harm both mother and baby. Timely diagnosis and safe antibiotic treatment help prevent complications. In children, untreated UTIs can impair kidney growth and function. Persistent infections may cause renal scarring, especially in young children. This damage can lead to hypertension later in life. Early symptoms may be subtle, so prompt medical attention is crucial. Regular follow-up helps prevent long-term complications and supports healthy development. Men with UTIs may develop prostatitis or long-term urinary issues. People with diabetes or weakened immunity are at higher risk of severe complications. Prompt diagnosis and proper treatment are essential to avoid these serious outcomes. Risk factors Several factors increase the risk of developing a UTI. Female anatomy is a major factor, as women have a shorter urethra, allowing bacteria easier access to the bladder. Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, especially in women. Poor hygiene habits, such as wiping from back to front, raise the risk. Dehydration reduces urine flow, which normally helps flush out bacteria. Use of spermicides, diaphragms, or certain contraceptives may disrupt natural defenses. People with diabetes, weakened immunity, or spinal cord injuries are more prone to UTIs. Urinary catheters, common in hospitals or elder care, are also a major risk factor. Children with incomplete toilet training are more prone to UTIs. They may hold urine too long or fail to empty the bladder completely. Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract can also trap urine and allow bacteria to grow. Frequent urinary accidents in children, especially after toilet training, may be a sign of a UTI. Infections can cause an urgent need to urinate, leading to wetting episodes during the day or night. Children may also avoid urinating due to pain or burning, which increases the risk of accidents. Parents should watch for signs like foul-smelling urine, fever, or irritability. Prompt medical evaluation is important to rule out infection and protect kidney health. In older adults, especially women, the risk of UTIs increases with age. Declining estrogen levels after menopause can weaken the urinary tract's natural defenses. Incomplete bladder emptying, often due to weakened muscles or neurological issues, allows bacteria to grow. Symptoms of UTIs Urinary tract infections often cause painful burning urination as the first noticeable symptom. A strong and frequent urge to urinate, even when little urine comes out, is also common. Urine may appear cloudy, dark, or have a foul odor. Some people experience lower abdominal or pelvic pain, especially around the bladder area. Blood in the urine (hematuria) may be seen in more severe cases. In children, symptoms can include fever, bedwetting, vomiting, or irritability. In older adults, UTIs may cause confusion, weakness, or a sudden change in behavior. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, symptoms may include back pain, fever, and chills. Fatigue, nausea, and general discomfort can also occur during a UTI. Top Tips to Prevent UTIs Preventing UTIs during summer starts with drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Hydration helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract through frequent urination, reducing the risk of infection. When the body is well-hydrated, it produces enough urine to clear out harmful microbes effectively. Dehydration, especially in hot weather, leads to concentrated urine and reduced flushing action. This can create an environment where bacteria can grow and cause a UTI. Drinking plenty of water daily is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect urinary health. Change out of wet swimsuits and sweaty clothes promptly to prevent bacterial growth. Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear to reduce moisture and irritation. Practice proper hygiene, wiping front to back after using the toilet. Avoid using scented soaps, douches, or sprays in the genital area, as they can disrupt natural flora. Encourage children to use the bathroom regularly and drink fluids throughout the day. Urinating before and after swimming or sexual activity is a simple yet effective way to reduce the risk of UTIs. It helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during these activities. Timely urination supports a healthy urinary tract by regularly flushing out bacteria and waste. Holding in urine for long periods allows bacteria to multiply and irritate the bladder lining. This habit increases the risk of urinary tract infections, especially in hot weather or during travel. Children and older adults should be encouraged to urinate regularly throughout the day. Making timely bathroom visits a routine helps maintain urinary health and prevent complications. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? 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Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Bacteria can turn plastic waste into a painkiller
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Tylenol could potentially be made greener and cheaper with the help of bacteria. Scientists were able to use a bacterial chemical reaction to convert a plastic water bottle into paracetamol with no environmental strain. This development could alter the way drugs are produced and provide a much-needed solution to the plastic pollution problem. The bacteria Escherichia coli or common in the gut microbiome, can be used to break down plastic into paracetamol, according to a study published in the journal Nature Chemistry. Paracetamol, or acetaminophen, is the main active ingredient in the painkiller Tylenol. It is generally produced using fossil fuels, namely crude oil, which has been known to worsen climate change. But "by merging chemistry and biology in this way for the first time, we can make paracetamol more sustainably and clean up plastic waste from the environment at the same time," said Stephen Wallace, a professor at the University of Edinburgh and the lead author of the study, to The Guardian. The researchers triggered a chemical reaction in known as the Lossen rearrangement that "until now had only been observed in test tubes," said Spanish newspaper El País. The was genetically modified to be able to break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a plastic used in food packaging and bottles, and ultimately produce paracetamol. This process can occur at room temperature and produces no carbon emissions. "It enables, for the first time, a pathway from plastic waste to paracetamol, which is not possible using biology alone, and it's not possible using chemistry alone," Wallace said to Science News. While it will take time before the painkiller can be widely produced using this method, "this could mark part of a broader shift toward more sustainable, biology-based manufacturing practices, both in the pharmaceutical industry and in plastic recycling," El País said. Plastic waste has been known to harm the environment and can pollute waterways and leach chemicals into the ecosystem. Microplastics have also been found almost everywhere on Earth and in our bodies. "I genuinely think this is quite an exciting sort of starting point for plastic waste upcycling," Wallace said. PET plastic "creates more than 350 million tons of waste annually," said a news release about the study. While PET recycling is possible, "existing processes create products that continue to contribute to plastic pollution worldwide." This research could be the solution to the pollution. The study's findings indicate that "PET plastic isn't just waste or a material destined to become more plastic," Wallace said in the release. "It can be transformed by microorganisms into valuable new products, including those with potential for treating disease." This is not the first time bacteria have been used to break down plastic, and it likely will not be the last. However, the ability to create medicine from plastic introduces a fresh area of research. "Based on what we've seen, it's highly likely that many — or even most — bacteria can perform these kinds of transmutations," Wallace said. "This opens up a whole new way of thinking about how we might use microbes as tiny chemical factories."
South Wales Guardian
2 days ago
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Health warning as Salmonella cases linked to cheese rise
Salmonella and Campylobacter cases have soared according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). These infections are usually caught by eating contaminated food such as poultry, meat, eggs, raw fruit and vegetables, as well as unpasteurised milk or cheese. People can die from them via dehydration or if the bacteria enters the bloodstream, which can lead to sepsis — a life-threatening reaction. In response to the surge in cases, the health officials have reminded businesses and households of important food safety measures. Dr Gauri Godbole, Deputy Director, Gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA says: "Our extensive surveillance is showing high levels of gastrointestinal infections in England. We continue to work closely with partners to detect, investigate and halt the spread of infections. "These infections spread in many ways, including through contaminated food or water, contact with an infected person as well as contact with an infected animal or their environment. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet or handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals or farms can prevent infections. Planning a BBQ this weekend? Food poisoning can easily become an unwelcome guest. Follow good food hygiene practices, such as washing your hands, cooking meat properly, and avoiding cross-contamination. More info on food poisoning: "Additionally, anyone experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting should avoid handling or preparing food for others. Do not return to work, and children should not attend school or nursery, until at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided." Young children, elderly adults and those with weakened immune systems should take extra care as they are at higher risk of developing severe illness. The new data says Campylobacter cases have increased by 17.1% from 60,055 in 2023 to 70,352 in 2024, reaching 121.9 reports per 100,000 population. This represents the highest number of cases recorded in the past decade. Adults aged 50 to 79 years account for 44% of all reports. Similarly, Salmonella infections reached a decade high, with a 17.1% increase from 2023, rising from 8,872 cases in 2023 to 10,388 cases in 2024. Children under 10 years old were particularly affected, accounting for 21.5% of cases. UKHSA and Food Standard Agency (FSA) experts are investigating further with partner agencies to understand the reasons behind this increase in Salmonella and Campylobacter cases. Cases of the parasite Cryptosporidium decreased by 16.4% compared to 2023, with 5,708 cases reported in 2024, although this was the second highest number of cases reported in the past decade. The number of infections in April 2024 were unusually high, associated with large outbreaks linked to lambing events and petting farm venues, and an outbreak in South Devon associated with mains water. The 2023 data for Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) shows a slight decrease of 2.2% compared to 2022 overall. All these gastrointestinal infections can cause similar symptoms, including diarrhoea (sometimes bloody), stomach pains and cramps, vomiting and mild fever. While most people recover within one to two weeks of infection, young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of developing serious illness or complications. In severe cases, STEC can cause haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition primarily affecting the kidneys. Dr James Cooper, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the FSA, says: "Public safety is our highest priority. The FSA works closely with UKHSA and other partners to monitor and assess the latest foodborne disease data. We are working together to understand the reasons behind the rise in Campylobacter and Salmonella cases, as well as trends in other pathogens. This analysis will help us take the necessary action to protect public health. "We've launched a new campaign to help people stay safe - find out more on We're also working with industry and local authorities to support businesses to meet their legal responsibility to make sure food is safe. Consumers can further protect themselves by checking Food Hygiene Ratings on When preparing food at home, people can reduce their risk of food poisoning by following good hygiene practices and by following advice on the 4Cs of food hygiene: chilling, cleaning, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination. Recommended reading: The FSA has put out this advice. Following good food hygiene and the 4Cs when preparing food can help protect you and others from food poisoning: cook food correctly by following the guidance on time and temperature on product labels chill your food below 5 degrees, this will stop or significantly slow the growth of bacteria clean food equipment and surfaces thoroughly, this helps to stop harmful bacteria and viruses from spreading onto food avoid cross-contamination which might lead to bacteria passing from raw foods to ready-to-eat foods via things like re-usable shopping bags, knives and chopping boards, cloths and work surfaces use food and drink by the 'use by' date on the label, even if it looks and smells fine – eating food after this date could put your health at risk as you can not smell or taste bacteria which make you ill good personal hygiene is essential when you're preparing food, this will help ensure that bacteria you may have come into contact with isn't passed to your friends, family and neighbours in their food
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Science
- The Hindu
Science for all: New research opens doors to upcycling plastic waste into paracetamol
(This article forms a part of the Science for All newsletter that takes the jargon out of science and puts the fun in! Subscribe now!) Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have found a way to make a classic lab reaction, called the Lossen rearrangement, happen safely inside living Escherichia coli cells — thus opening a potential new path to recycling plastic waste into valuable products. The team started with a bacterium that couldn't make para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), a small molecule every cell needs to build DNA. When the mutant strain was given PABA, it grew. Without it, the strain was stalled. Researchers fed the cells a synthetic compound, simply called 1, that would release PABA only if a Lossen rearrangement reaction took place. After 72 hours at 37 degrees C, the bacteria cultures turned cloudy, proving the reaction, and therefore PABA production, had taken place inside the flask. The cloudiness test allowed the authors to track chemistry and cell health at the same time. The reaction worked even when the researchers added no metal catalyst. They were able to figure out with more tests that ordinary phosphate ions, which are present in most cell media and inside cells themselves, quietly catalysed the rearrangement reaction. High-performance liquid-chromatography measurements revealed that active, growing cells sped up the reaction up even more. The team also found that none of the tested substrates harmed cell growth at realistic concentrations, meaning they were not toxic to the bacteria. Compound 1 was easy to make from terephthalic acid, which is the basic unit of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) soda bottles. This means the Lossen rearrangement reaction happening inside the bacteria could consume (a form of) plastic to produce a different, newly useful compound. The researchers shredded a used bottle, hydrolysed it to terephthalic acid, and converted that into PET-1. The mutant E. coli strain grew just as well on PET-1 as on the lab-grade material, directly linking plastic-waste upcycling to biomass production and hinting at future bioremediation strategies. Because the rescued cells stayed healthy, the team next checked whether they could perform additional tasks while the Lossen rearrangement reaction ticked on in the background. Indeed, cultures containing Compound 1 smoothly reduced dimethyl maleate and keto-acrylates to their saturated products using native bacterial enzymes — proof that abiotic and biotic chemistries could cooperate in one setting. Finally, the authors built a two-enzyme genetic pathway: a fungal hydroxylase turned PABA into 4-aminophenol while a bacterial N-acetyl-transferase capped it with an acetyl group to yield paracetamol, the highly popular pain-relieving drug. In fact, the researchers were able to convert up to 92% of PET-1 into paracetamol in one simple brew. From the Science pages Question Corner Why is the El Niño so hard to predict? Find out here Flora and fauna
NDTV
4 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Plastic To Paracetamol: Scientists Convert Waste Into Painkiller In 24 Hours
New research from the University of Edinburgh in the UK has achieved a significant breakthrough by using Escherichia coli bacteria to convert molecules from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic into acetaminophen, commonly known as paracetamol. This offers a promising approach to addressing both plastic pollution and the reliance on fossil fuels in drug manufacturing. Acetaminophen is typically produced using fossil fuels. Replacing these ingredients with waste products like plastic could provide an innovative solution to two major environmental challenges. While scaling up the process and demonstrating its industrial and commercial viability will take time, this new technology holds considerable potential for sustainable drug production and waste management. As per a news release by the University of Edinburgh, this process has several benefits, including: Quick Turnaround: Results can be obtained within 24 hours. Compact Setup: It can be performed in a small laboratory setting. Energy Efficiency: It operates at room temperature, eliminating the need for extreme heating or cooling. "This work demonstrates that PET plastic isn't just waste or a material destined to become more plastic - it can be transformed by microorganisms into valuable new products, including those with potential for treating disease," says biotechnologist Stephen Wallace from the University of Edinburgh. Experts say this new approach demonstrates how traditional chemistry can work with engineering biology to create living microbial factories capable of producing sustainable chemicals while also reducing waste, greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. The research, published in Nature Chemistry, was funded by an EPSRC CASE award and biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, supported by Edinburgh Innovations (EI). "We are bringing in exceptional companies like AstraZeneca to work with Stephen and others at the university to translate these cutting-edge discoveries into world-changing innovations. Engineering biology offers immense potential to disrupt our reliance on fossil fuels, build a circular economy and create sustainable chemicals and materials, and we would invite potential collaborators to get in touch," said Ian Hatch, Head of Consultancy at EI.
