Category: 8. Health

The kidneys are vital organs responsible for regulating blood pH, balancing electrolytes, producing hormones that control blood pressure, enhancing bone density, and managing red blood cell production. Dr. Ha Tuan Hung from the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi explains that weakened kidneys cannot perform these functions properly, leading to a buildup of toxins that may damage other organs.

To protect your kidneys, Dr. Hung recommends these 10 healthy daily habits:

1. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight puts extra pressure on the kidneys and increases the risk of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which are major causes of kidney failure. A balanced diet combined with regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.

A healthy meal. Illustration photo by Pexels

2. Control blood sugar levels

High blood sugar can damage kidney blood vessels, leading to reduced kidney function. Diabetics should follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take prescribed medications to manage their blood sugar levels.

3. Monitor blood pressure

High blood pressure can silently damage the kidneys over time. To prevent hypertension, exercise regularly, eat less fat and salt, and limit alcohol intake.

Regular monitoring of blood pressure, especially in the morning and evening, is recommended. The ideal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg for healthy individuals and below 130/80 mmHg for those with diabetes or kidney disease.

4. Limit alcohol consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can harm the kidneys by forcing them to work overtime to filter toxins. It can also disrupt electrolyte balance, raising the risk of kidney failure, particularly for those with high blood pressure or diabetes.

5. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health. It also supports kidney function by improving blood circulation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day, such as walking, running, or swimming.

6. Follow a healthy diet

A healthy diet provides essential nutrients and fiber to the body. Limit foods high in sugar, oils, margarine, and processed products, which can lead to metabolic disorders. Instead, focus on plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Those with kidney disease should also restrict protein, sodium, and phosphorus intake to lessen kidney strain.

7. Avoid smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and impairs kidney function, increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease. Quitting smoking improves both kidney and cardiovascular health.

8. Manage stress

Chronic stress can have a negative impact on health, including kidney function. Engaging in stress-reducing activities like meditation or light exercise can improve mental well-being and contribute to kidney health.

9. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water helps remove toxins from the kidneys and maintains electrolyte balance. It also reduces the risk of kidney disease, especially urinary stone-related kidney problems. Aim to drink 2-3 liters of water daily, but avoid overhydration to prevent unnecessary strain on the kidneys.

10. Regular health checkups

Kidney disease often shows no symptoms in its early stages, making regular health checkups essential. Blood and urine tests, along with periodic blood pressure measurements, can help detect kidney issues early. High-risk individuals, such as the elderly, those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease, should be especially vigilant.

Pay attention to warning signs like frequent nighttime urination, blood in the urine, swelling in the ankles or hands, or persistent fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent kidney damage from progressing.

Specialty

Please chooseI’m not a medical professional.Allergy and ImmunologyAnatomyAnesthesiologyBiostatisticsCardiac/Thoracic/Vascular SurgeryCardiologyCritical CareDentistryDermatologyDiabetes and EndocrinologyEmergency MedicineEpidemiology and Public HealthFamily MedicineForensic MedicineGastroenterologyGeneral PracticeGeneticsGeriatricsHealth PolicyHematologyHIV/AIDSHospital-based MedicineI’m not a medical professional.Infectious DiseaseIntegrative/Complementary MedicineInternal MedicineInternal Medicine-PediatricsMedical Education and SimulationMedical PhysicsMedical StudentNephrologyNeurological SurgeryNeurologyNuclear MedicineNutritionObstetrics and GynecologyOccupational HealthOncologyOphthalmologyOptometryOral MedicineOrthopaedicsOsteopathic MedicineOtolaryngologyPain ManagementPalliative CarePathologyPediatricsPediatric SurgeryPharmacologyPhysical Medicine and RehabilitationPlastic SurgeryPodiatryPreventive MedicinePsychiatryPsychologyPulmonologyRadiation OncologyRadiologyRheumatologySubstance Use and AddictionSurgeryTherapeuticsTraumaUrologyMiscellaneous

A new immunotherapy trial for the deadliest form of brain cancer, glioblastoma, is now recruiting patients after one individual experienced a remarkable outcome, seeing his tumour vanish.

The NHS study, set to enrol 16 people over an 18-month period, has been established in memory of Baroness Margaret McDonagh, who succumbed to the disease.

Patients diagnosed with glioblastoma will receive the immunotherapy drug ipilimumab prior to standard treatment, capitalising on the immune system’s peak strength.

This trial, conducted by University College London Hospital’s National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, builds on a previous study involving the same drug, which had closed due to insufficient recruitment.

Ben Trotman, a patient from that earlier trial, has shown no signs of glioblastoma for over two years since receiving the drug – a world first, given most glioblastoma patients typically die within 12-18 months.

Mr Trotman was diagnosed in October 2022 at the age of 40.

Now aged 43 and two years and eight months on from having the treatment, his scans are clear and there are no signs of tumour.

Consultant medical oncologist, Dr Paul Mulholland, who is leading the new trial and treated Mr Trotman, said: “It is very unusual to have a clear scan with glioblastoma, especially when he didn’t have the follow-up surgery that had been planned to remove all of the tumour that was initially visible on scans.

“We hope that the immunotherapy and follow-up treatment Ben has had will hold his tumour at bay – and it has so far, which we are delighted to see.”

Mr Trotman got married to Emily two months after the immunotherapy treatment and in April, his daughter Mabel was born.

Mrs Trotman said: “Getting this diagnosis was the most traumatic experience. We were grappling with the fact that Ben had gone from being apparently perfectly healthy to having months to live.

“Had we not met Dr Mulholland, that would have been it for us. We felt we had a lucky break in an otherwise devastating situation.”

Mr Trotman went on to have the current standard treatment of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. He has quarterly scans, which continue to be clear.

Mr Trotman said: “We obviously don’t know what the future holds but having had the immunotherapy treatment and getting these encouraging scan results has given Emily and I a bit of hope.

“We are focused on rebuilding the life we thought we had lost and enjoying being parents.”

Dame Siobhain McDonagh MP led a fundraising campaign to raise more than £1 million to cover the costs of the new trial.

Her sister, Baroness McDonagh, died from glioblastoma in 2023.

Dame Siobhain said: “My beloved sister Margaret was appalled to discover that there had been no advances in brain cancer treatment for decades when she was diagnosed with glioblastoma.

“Changing this was Margaret’s final campaign and one that I have continued in her memory.

“I am so grateful to the many people who knew and respected Margaret who have come together and helped to raise funds and campaign for this new trial that we are calling Margaret’s Trial.”

Dr Paul Mulholland said: “When I met Margaret she said to me ‘what can I do to support you to cure this disease?’.

“I am incredibly grateful to her and to Siobhain whose campaigning and fundraising in her sister’s memory has led to this new clinical trial opening for patients with this most aggressive form of brain cancer that has such a poor prognosis, with most patients surviving just nine months after diagnosis.

“The crucial element of this trial is that patients will have their immune system boosted by the drug before they have any other treatment, when they are fit and well enough to tolerate the immunotherapy.

“We’re taking everything we have learned from previous trials into this new study and we are already planning follow-on trials.

“My aim is to find a cure for glioblastoma.”

The National Brain Appeal is currently funding two posts in support of Dr Mulholland’s research.

Treatment will take place at the NIHR UCLH’s Clinical Research Facility and at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.

Patients interested in the new Win-Glio trial should discuss it with their consultant.

Story continues

The mother of a teenage boy battling a rare cancer has revealed that life-saving treatment abroad, funded by public generosity, represents their “last hope” for her son, who “wouldn’t be here” without the donations.

Sam Holson, 50, from Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, is currently in Germany with her 14-year-old son, Jamie, as he undergoes specialist care.

Jamie first noticed lumps on the right side of his neck during a family holiday in April 2023.

Initially dismissed, the lumps grew painful, prompting his mother, who stepped back from her marketing role due to his health, to seek medical attention for Jamie.

In June 2023, Jamie was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer affecting an average of just 31 people in England annually, according to Sarcoma UK.

The diagnosis devastated the family. Jamie underwent two courses of chemotherapy, achieving remission twice, but relapsing on each occasion.

With his treatment options becoming “limited” on the NHS, his parents began exploring overseas alternatives.

A GoFundMe page was launched, raising more than £300,000 in “amazing” and “generous” donations. Since June this year, Sam and Jamie have been residing at a medical clinic in Germany, where the teenager is receiving the crucial cancer treatment.

Sam now estimates the family has spent most of the money originally collated with the fees of Jamie’s “incredibly expensive” care – and she said they will need another £300,000 for her son to receive the major immunotherapy vaccine he needs to survive.

Speaking from the clinic in Germany, Sam told PA Real Life: “This is our last hope, our last resort if you like.

“Without the support we have had, without the fundraising, Jamie wouldn’t be here now.

“We’re so grateful that he’s being given a chance at life and we’re relying massively on the kindness and generosity of people, family, friends and strangers.

“We’re prepared to remortgage our house if we have to and do everything we can, but any support we get means the world to us.”

Sam described her son as “incredibly fit” prior to his diagnosis, and he would play football five times a week as the captain of his school’s team.

Jamie was 12 when he first noticed one or two lumps on the right side of his neck while on a family holiday in Spain in April 2023.

“Over the next few weeks, they became quite prominent and they seemed to grow quickly,” Sam said.

Sam took Jamie to the family’s GP where she said he was examined and prescribed antibiotics, as his symptoms were thought to be from an infection.

A few weeks later while Sam was away on a business trip, Adam, a self-employed painter and decorator, phoned her to say he had taken Jamie to A&E at their local Hinchingbrooke Hospital as the lumps had started to become painful.

Sam said Jamie underwent further tests and examinations, and he was prescribed antibiotics once more.

Within a few days, Sam said the lumps were getting “bigger and bigger” and “more painful”, and the family were becoming increasingly “anxious”.

Sam said doctors then “determined the lumps were cancer” but it was unclear what type – and Jamie was admitted to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

In June 2023, Jamie was officially diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare, soft tissue cancer where tumours develop from muscle or fibrous tissue and can grow in any part of the body, according to the NHS.

Sam added her son’s cancer was stage four and his prognosis was “grim”.

“You almost can’t believe it’s happening, you have an out-of-body experience and it doesn’t seem real,” Sam said.

“Jamie handled the whole thing incredibly well, he mostly takes it all in his stride.”

Jamie quickly started a six-month course of “harsh” chemotherapy treatment.

“It was relentless, it was tiring, it was stressful, exhausting – everything you can possibly imagine,” Sam recalled.

Sam said a three-month routine scan revealed Jamie was going into remission and that, after he completed the treatment course in December 2023, he could return to a semblance of normality.

“It was great news, he started to go back to school, his hair started to grow back and he started to put on weight,” Sam said.

A few months later in May 2024, however, Jamie noticed a pain in his side and scans revealed his cancer had returned.

He was put on another 10-month course of chemotherapy treatment, this time using a different drug.

After three rounds of treatment, Sam said scans showed Jamie had gone into remission again, and he completed his treatment course in February this year.

“We thought ‘great, we’ve done it again’,” Sam said.

“Jamie looked healthy, he had energy – it was almost like he had gone back to normal.”

Unfortunately, a routine scan in April this year showed the disease had returned once more, which “floored” and “devastated” the family.

Knowing treatment options were now “limited” on the NHS, Sam said they started looking further afield.

They discovered an immunotherapy vaccine at a clinic in Germany, which would use Jamie’s immune system to fight the cancerous cells in his body, but the family would need to pay to receive it.

They launched a GoFundMe page for support, which has raised more than £378,000 to date – and Sam said the family are “incredibly grateful” and “blessed”.

For the last six weeks, Jamie has been receiving life-saving cancer treatment at the clinic, which includes targeted and personalised immunotherapy treatments, genomic profiling and weekly IV infusions, and he appears to be responding well.

Sam said most of the money raised has now been spent, and they need to raise further funds to allow Jamie to receive a major immunotherapy vaccine “to give him the best chance of long-term remission” – which she estimates will cost another £300,000 in total.

“The vaccines range from 5,000 (£4,329) to 20,000 Euros (£17,317), to stay at the clinic it’s 1,300 Euros (£1,125) a night,” Sam explained.

“Every treatment on top of that, every medication, is an additional fee.

“It seems to be working but it’s incredibly expensive.”

Jamie has been sharing his story on various social media platforms under the name Jamie’s Quest – and his most popular TikTok video, where he addresses his followers and asks for help, has earned more than 1.4 million views.

“It’s great because I want people to understand why we’re trying to raise such a vast amount of money,” Sam said.

“Without that, Jamie wouldn’t be sitting here right now.”

To find out more, visit Jamie’s fundraising page here: gofundme.com/f/life-saving-cancer-treatment-for-jamie

When it comes to lowering cholesterol levels, lifestyle changes are key. High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, occurs when excess cholesterol is present in the blood.Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND says, “High cholesterol is linked to diet, genetics and lifestyle. Over time, this can increase your risk for heart disease.” The good news is that even just a few simple tweaks to your diet can make a big difference in managing your cholesterol levels. For example, adding a sprinkle of chia seeds to your meals is an easy way to boost your intake of soluble fiber and healthy fats—key nutrients for lowering cholesterol. 

In fact, one review showed that consuming 35 grams (about 2.5 tablespoons) of chia seeds per day led to noticeable reductions  in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to the control group. Here, registered dietitians explain why chia seeds are the #1 food to eat more of if you have high cholesterol, along with other strategies for managing your levels. 

How Chia Seeds Can Help Lower Cholesterol

Chia seeds are the edible seeds of the Salvia hispanica plant and are an impressive source of dietary fiber, plant-based protein, antioxidants, omega‐3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. They’re also naturally low in saturated fat and easy to incorporate into meals and snacks. Here are some of the reasons why adding chia seeds to your diet may be beneficial if you have high cholesterol.

They Provide an Ample Amount of Fiber 

Chia seeds are rich in fiber, with a 2-tablespoon serving providing 10 grams of fiber, including 1.5 grams of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber has been shown to help lower cholesterol by binding to cholesterol in the small intestine and removing it from your body. “When chia seed is mixed with water, the soluble fiber forms a gel called mucilage, which can help transport cholesterol out of the body through the digestive tract,” says Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN. Research suggests that consuming at least 5–10 grams of soluble fiber per day may reduce LDL cholesterol by 5.5–11 mg per deciliter. 

They Contain Plant-Based Omega-3 Fatty Acids 

Another impressive benefit of chia seeds is their rich concentration of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory effects. “Chia seeds are rich in plant-based omega-3 fats, which positively support heart health,” says Sheth. Research suggests that ALA can help lower total and LDL cholesterol levels. It may also help increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels, though the findings weren’t significant. 

They May Help Reduce Inflammation 

Chronic inflammation has been shown to reduce HDL cholesterol levels and increase LDL and triglyceride levels. Lorena Akerman, MS, RD, CDN, CDCES, says that chia seeds are rich in polyphenols—plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. While more research is needed, high dietary intake of polyphenols has been linked to higher levels of HDL cholesterol in people with metabolic syndrome. Besides being linked with a reduced risk of heart disease, HDL is beneficial as it helps transport LDL away from the heart and back to the liver, where it can be broken down and removed from the body.

They’re Versatile and Economical

Chia seeds are simple to incorporate into a healthy diet and are relatively inexpensive—especially if you buy them in bulk. Akerman notes that while the price varies by brand, chia seeds are generally cost-effective as you’ll likely only use a tablespoon or two at a time.

How to Include Chia Seeds in Your Eating Plan 

Chia seeds can be added to virtually any dish, from creamy overnight oats to dinner-sized salads. “Add chia seeds to a smoothie, mix into a yogurt, soak overnight in soy milk (also good for lowering cholesterol) to make a chia pudding or use [them] in granola. Powder form can be used in baked goods, bread or cracker doughs, oatmeal or smoothies,” says Del Coro. 

Overnight chia seed pudding is Sheth’s favorite recipe for a delicious, heart-healthy breakfast or snack. She varies up the milk (almond, soy) and adds fresh fruit (berries, mango, stone fruit) and a small handful of chopped nuts (pistachios, walnuts, almonds). You can also sprinkle chia seeds over a slice of avocado toast, add them to a classic PB&J or use them to make a DIY protein powder. Just make sure to add chia seeds gradually into your diet and drink plenty of water to avoid digestive side effects, like bloating or gas. Sheth notes that this is particularly important if you’re not used to eating a high-fiber diet. 

Unopened, chia seeds can last up to 5 years when stored in a cool, dry place, like a pantry or cabinet. Once opened, Akerman recommends storing chia seeds in an airtight container in the fridge to extend their shelf life and prevent them from going rancid. 

Other Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Reduce Cholesterol 

Certain risk factors for high cholesterol, like your genetics, age and family history, are outside of your control. However, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your cholesterol levels and support heart health. Here are three strategies to try:

Eat more plants 

Sheth recommends filling your plate with plant-based foods and heart-healthy fats, like olive oil, to help lower cholesterol. Whole, minimally processed plant-based foods, like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes, are packed with beneficial nutrients for heart health and cholesterol levels. In addition to providing fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals, they’re also typically low in saturated fat. Compared to omnivorous diets, vegan and vegetarian diets have been associated with lower total and LDL cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.

Move your body 

Akerman highlights the importance of physical activity. Regular exercise is shown to increase HDL and lower LDL levels. To help prevent or reduce high cholesterol, the American Heart Association recommends engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense cardiovascular exercise per week. Swimming, cycling, running and brisk walking are all classic examples of aerobic exercise. Dancing, hiking, vigorous yard work and gardening also count. If you’re new to exercise, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.  

Do not smoke 

Smoking and vaping can lower HDL cholesterol. Smoking can also increase the risk of heart disease by increasing triglyceride levels and other health conditions associated with high cholesterol, like diabetes and high blood pressure. If you currently smoke, reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and resources on how to quit. 

Our Expert Take

Chia seeds contain soluble fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, all of which can help improve cholesterol levels and support overall heart health. Besides being incredibly nutritious, these tiny but mighty seeds are also easy to use, versatile and relatively inexpensive, making them an excellent addition to your pantry (or fridge). 

Of course, no one food can magically improve your cholesterol levels. Eating an overall healthy diet that’s rich in minimally processed plant-based foods, moving your body daily and not smoking are also key. Cholesterol-lowering medications may also be necessary for some folks. Regardless of where you start, identify at least one or two changes you can make today to start moving towards a more heart-healthy lifestyle.

Keep calm and try omega-3. The fatty acids, available as dietary supplements via fish oil capsules and thought to help with mental and physical well-being, could also cut down on aggression, according to a 2024 study.

These findings haven’t come out of nowhere: omega-3 has previously been linked to preventing schizophrenia, while aggression and antisocial behavior are thought in part to stem from a lack of nutrition. What we eat can influence our brain’s chemistry.

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania built on earlier, smaller studies of omega-3 supplementation effects on aggression. Their meta-analysis looked at 29 randomized controlled trials across 3,918 participants in total.

Across all the trials, a modest but noticeable short-term effect was found, translating to up to a 28 percent reduction in aggression across multiple different variables (including age, gender, medical diagnosis, and length and dosage of treatment).

Related: Alpha Male Primates a Myth, Researchers Find in New Study

“I think the time has come to implement omega-3 supplementation to reduce aggression, irrespective of whether the setting is the community, the clinic, or the criminal justice system,” said neurocriminologist Adrian Raine when the meta-analysis was published.

The trials included in the study, carried out between 1996 and 2024, ran for an average of 16 weeks. They covered a variety of demographics, from children aged 16 and under to older people aged between 50 and 60.

What’s more, the reductions in aggression included both reactive aggression (in response to provocation) and proactive aggression (behavior planned in advance). Before this study, it wasn’t clear if omega-3 could help with these different types of aggression.

While larger studies across longer periods of time are going to be needed to further establish this relationship, it adds to our understanding of how fish oil pills and the omega-3 in them might be beneficial for the brain.

“At the very least, parents seeking treatment for an aggressive child should know that in addition to any other treatment that their child receives, an extra portion or two of fish each week could also help,” Raine said.

The researchers think something in the way that omega-3 reduces inflammation and keeps vital brain processes ticking over might be helping regulate aggression. There are still a lot of unanswered questions, but the team suggests there’s enough evidence to look into this further.

Add in the studies that show that medications derived from fish oil can help reduce the risk of fatal heart attacks, strokes, and other heart health problems, and there seems to be plenty of upside to adding some omega-3 to your diet.

“Omega-3 is not a magic bullet that is going to completely solve the problem of violence in society,” said Raine.

“But can it help? Based on these findings, we firmly believe it can, and we should start to act on the new knowledge we have.”

The research has been published in Aggression and Violent Behavior.

An earlier version of this article was published in June 2024.

MUMBAI: India’s heart disease burden is evident not only from the spate of heart attacks among young celebrities in the past five years, but also in the over-50% rise in cardiac medication sale in the same period.Be they lipid-lowering drugs, heart-failure medications or anti-anginal treatments, cardiac medications sell more than drugs meant for any complications, including the gastro-intestinal tract, infections or diabetes. According to June report of Pharmarack, which analyses sales figures from 17 prominent Indian pharmaceutical companies representing more than half of the sector, sales of cardiac medicines rose from Rs 1,761 crore in June 2021 to Rs 2,645 crore by June 2025. There has been a consistent yearly growth rate of 10.7% in this sector, showed the report.Experts offer a slew of reasons for this rise, ranging from better awareness of heart diseases, new parameters for measuring hypertension as well as the increasing population of senior citizens. “There is no doubt that cardiovascular diseases are on the rise, but at the same time, access to care and diagnostic tools has improved,” said Dr Ajay Mahajan, head of the cardiology department at KEM Hospital.

Centre’s data suggests that 63% of total deaths in the country were due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) accounting for 27%.Dr Suraj Nagre, associate professor at JJ Hospital’s cardiovascular and thoracic surgery department, offers another reason: “A few years ago, the threshold for hypertension was a reading of 130-140. Medical guidelines have since changed and even readings above 120 are considered hypertensive.”While heart care until a few years back mainly meant lipid-lowering medications, the prescriptions for other drugs meant to control unstable heart rhythm or heart failure have also increased. “Cardiovascular medications are interrelated because they target different but connected pathways of disease,” said senior cardiac surgeon Dr Ramakanta Panda. “For example, anti-hypertensives lower blood pressure to reduce the strain on arteries and the heart. Lipid-lowering drugs like statins reduce cholesterol helping prevent arterial blockages. Anti-anginals improve blood flow to the heart muscle, relieving chest pain caused by narrowed arteries. These medications are often prescribed together,” said Dr Panda.Referring to the frequent reports of cardiac arrest deaths among common people as well as celebrities and fitness enthusiasts, KEM cardiologist Dr Charan Lanjewar said underlying factors are almost always involved. “There’s a lack of data to identify a single cause in many cardiac arrest cases. The reasons are multifactorial, but lifestyle, stress, and consumption habits play a vital role,” Dr Lanjewar said.The aging population is more prone to heart conditions. Senior cardiologist Dr Akshay Mehta said, “The lifespan of the Indian population has increased and with a growing aging population, we are seeing a higher incidence of heart disease. Along with rising incidence, we also have better diagnostic tools now.”

A new study published in the European Journal of Neuroscience sheds light on how patterns of brain connectivity may relate to psychopathic traits and their association with externalizing behaviors such as aggression and rule-breaking. By analyzing brain scans from young adults, researchers found that individuals with higher levels of psychopathic traits showed distinctive patterns of structural connections in the brain. These patterns, in turn, were associated with behaviors that involve acting out, suggesting that the brain’s wiring might help explain some of the behavioral tendencies linked to psychopathy.

Psychopathy is often associated with impulsivity, aggression, and antisocial behavior. While past studies have focused heavily on how different brain regions function in people with psychopathic traits, less is known about how these regions are structurally connected. Structural connectivity refers to the physical links between brain areas—similar to the brain’s wiring system. The researchers aimed to go beyond earlier work that focused only on specific brain circuits and instead look across the entire brain to identify any structural patterns linked to psychopathy.

The researchers were especially interested in understanding whether structural differences in the brain might explain the relationship between psychopathic traits and externalizing behaviors. Previous models have suggested two possible brain-based explanations for these behaviors. One theory emphasizes problems in how people process emotional threats, while another highlights difficulties in attention control. Both theories have some support, but no study had comprehensively examined how structural brain networks might connect psychopathy with real-world behavioral problems.

The research team analyzed data from 82 young adults who participated in the Leipzig Mind-Brain-Body study. All participants were screened to rule out medical or psychological conditions that might affect the results. Psychopathic traits were assessed using a questionnaire designed to capture both interpersonal-affective characteristics (like manipulation and lack of empathy) and behavioral traits (like impulsivity and rule-breaking). Externalizing behaviors were also measured with a separate questionnaire that included items on aggression, defiance, and similar tendencies.

Each participant underwent high-resolution brain imaging using diffusion MRI, a technique that maps the white matter tracts—essentially the brain’s wiring—connecting different regions. The researchers used a method called connectome-based predictive modeling, which relies on machine learning to identify patterns in the brain’s structural connectivity that relate to individual differences in behavior.

This method allowed them to identify two kinds of networks: positive networks, where stronger connections were linked to higher psychopathy scores, and negative networks, where weaker connections were related to those same scores. They also tested whether specific connections within these networks helped explain the relationship between psychopathic traits and externalizing behaviors.

The results showed that psychopathic traits were significantly associated with both stronger and weaker connections in different parts of the brain. The positive network—made up of connections that increased with psychopathy—was better at predicting psychopathic traits than the negative network alone. But when both networks were combined, the prediction became even more accurate.

Many of the connections in the positive network were located within the brain’s frontal and parietal lobes, which are involved in decision-making, emotional processing, and attention. These connections included pathways like the uncinate fasciculus, which links the frontal cortex with areas involved in emotion, and the arcuate fasciculus, which supports language and auditory processing. Other connections involved the cingulum bundle, associated with emotional regulation and social behavior, and the posterior corticostriatal pathway, which plays a role in reward processing and learning.

On the other hand, the negative network involved fewer connections, notably in regions like the superior longitudinal fasciculus and the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus on the left side of the brain. These tracts are important for attention control and integrating information across different senses.

The researchers then looked at whether specific connections in these networks could explain the link between psychopathic traits and externalizing behaviors. They found that one connection in the right hemisphere—part of a tract involved in emotion recognition—was associated with both psychopathy and higher levels of externalizing behavior. A second connection in the left hemisphere—related to attention control—was linked to both psychopathy and lower levels of these behaviors. Mediation analyses suggested that these two connections acted as pathways through which psychopathic traits might influence externalizing behaviors.

The findings suggest that structural differences in how the brain is connected may play a role in how psychopathic traits are expressed behaviorally. Some connections—especially those involved in emotion and reward processing—may contribute to difficulties in recognizing and responding to social and emotional cues, which could make aggressive or impulsive behaviors more likely. Other connections, especially those related to attention control, may affect a person’s ability to process competing information, potentially influencing how they respond in complex or emotionally charged situations.

Importantly, the study found that people with higher psychopathic traits did not always show weaker brain connections. In fact, some brain networks showed increased connectivity. This is different from earlier findings that have mostly focused on reduced structural integrity in white matter. The current study used a different measurement—counting the number of streamlines between regions—which may capture broader patterns of connection rather than subtle changes in tissue structure.

The researchers also emphasized that the results support a dual-pathway model of psychopathy. One pathway involves problems with emotional processing, and the other involves attention control. These two types of brain circuits may work independently or together to influence how psychopathic traits are expressed.

While the findings offer new insight into the brain’s role in psychopathy, there are several limitations. The participants in the study were young adults from the general population, and most had relatively low levels of externalizing behaviors. This limits how much the results can be applied to people with more severe or clinical forms of psychopathy.

The study also did not include behavioral or cognitive tasks that could directly link the brain’s structural features to performance in real-world situations. Including such tasks in future studies could help clarify how these brain differences translate into specific deficits in emotional or attentional processing.

Another limitation is that the study treated psychopathy as a single dimension. But research suggests that different components of psychopathy—such as callousness versus impulsivity—may be linked to different brain circuits. Future studies could look at how structural connectivity relates to specific traits or subtypes of psychopathy.

Finally, the study’s sample size was relatively small, and the findings need to be replicated in larger and more diverse populations, including those with higher levels of psychopathic traits or histories of criminal behavior.

The study, “The Role of Structural Brain Networks in Psychopathy and Its Relation to Externalizing Behaviors,” was authored by Peiyang Guo, Cheng Cheng, and Xiangyi Zhang.

Published Jul 20, 2025  •  Last updated 6 hours ago  •  2 minute read

Article content

Nothing screams summer quite like a painful sunburn.

Article content

As temperatures rise and folks flock to the beach en masse, statistics show that one-third of adults will experience at least one sunburn this year. Adults under age 30 are most susceptible to scoring a scorcher.

Article content

Article content

Liberal and consistent applications of sunscreen is the primary way to avoid skin damage, but what happens when you do end up with a burn?

Using wet tea bags to soothe the skin or applying towels dipped in black tea to the burn is not a bad idea, it turns out.

“This is one of the more surprising folk remedies that dermatologists don’t mind,” Dr. Tiffany Libby, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology in Rhode Island, told the New York Post.

“Black tea contains tannins and antioxidants that can have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Cool — not hot — steeped tea bags or compresses can help relieve pain and redness temporarily.”

Article content

Article content

It’s important that the tea being used is cooled and the skin is free of blisters before applying, Libby added.

Those aren’t the only healing methods.

Aspirin or ibuprofen

Taking the proper painkillers can help even though skin can “burn” hours after exposure, as our inflammatory response to UV radiation can cause redness and pain in the aftermath of a sunburn.

“Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen can help by reducing this inflammation. They don’t stop the burn, but taken early, they may help blunt the severity of symptoms like redness, swelling and discomfort,” Libby said.

Recommended video

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

Play Video

Got milk?

Some might have heard that cold milk and Greek yogurt are popular choices to help soothe a burn, but Libby leans toward one dairy product.

Article content

“The proteins, fat and pH of milk can create a soothing barrier, and cold milk compresses can help reduce heat and irritation,” she said. “Greek yogurt has probiotics and lactic acid, but it’s more likely to cause a reaction due to its acidity and additives.”

Libby said to avoid yogurt altogether and choose cold milk compresses instead.

Read More

1. 

   Monkeypox patient’s rotting nose mistaken for sunburn

2. 

   Canadian influencer defends controversial ‘caveman skincare routine’

Up for debate

Unsurprisingly, internet searches will produce a sort of Wild West version of remedies, many of which are questionable, including the use of vinegar.

While vinegar is a source of acetic acid, which has mild anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it’s not the proper fix.

Article content

“It’s acidic and can actually irritate or burn compromised skin, especially with more severe sunburns. You’re more likely to end up with additional discomfort or even chemical irritation. Stick with proven, gentler remedies,” Libby said.

Combining hemorrhoid cream and vitamin E is another no-no, according to Libby.

“Hemorrhoid creams often contain hydrocortisone and phenylephrine, which can temporarily reduce inflammation and redness. In theory, a tiny amount could calm a sunburned area, but these creams are not formulated for facial skin or sunburned skin, so they may cause irritation or breakouts,” she said.

Applying vitamin E directly to damaged or sunburned skin can cause allergic reactions for some folks.

Worth a try

Aside from aloe vera, Libby recommended hydrocortisone 1% cream, colloidal oatmeal baths, refrigerated moisturizers, staying well-hydrated and avoiding occlusive ointments early on.

For more health news and content around diseases, conditions, wellness, healthy living, drugs, treatments and more, head to Healthing.ca – a member of the Postmedia Network.

Article content

Share this article in your social network