Category: 8. Health

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been increasing in use across different forms of medicine, and preventive cardiology is no different. In a session held on August 1 at the ASPC 2025 Congress on Preventive Cardiology, experts discussed how both AI and technology can be used to improve the practice of preventing cardiovascular conditions—including language models, wearable technology, and mobile technology—to bring top care to patients.

Language Models Show Promise in Preventive Cardiology

Generative AI (genAI) is a popular form of AI that can produce content based on patterns learned from existing data, to generate text, video, audio, images, code, and other forms of content as prompted.

Ashish Sarraju, MD, FACC, the director of research at the preventive cardiology center at Cleveland Clinic, discussed how prevalent genAI already is in the preventive cardiology space, highlighting how findings already suggest responses to patient messages and clinic notes can be generated by gen AI. Also that it can be used to interpret data and images to give medical recommendations to patients.

“Cleveland Clinic, interested in this topic, did a survey last year of a nationally representative sample, asking how many people are using generative AI, and what do you think? A stunning 72% of patients said they would and have used generative AI to ask medical questions, and 65% said that they would trust the recommendations provided by the chatbot for their own health,” said Sarraju.

Sarraju hopes that genAI can not only be used for these methods but also to block accelerants of cardiovascular disease and improve prevention of these conditions. Accelerants of cardiovascular disease can include lack of health care access, underdiagnosis, poor risk stratification, delays in treatment, poor treatment implementation, and clinical trial underrepresentation, leading to incorrect assumptions regarding diagnosis or treatment. Lack of education from patients and clinician burnout can also contribute to the acceleration of cardiovascular disease.

genAI can help to close these gaps by allowing patients to get preventive cardiology recommendations from the chatbot, as previous research has shown that genAI can provide appropriate responses to common preventive cardiology questions 84% of the time.¹ Screening for clinical trial enrollment may also improve when using genAI, as it can be used to scan electronic medical records to determine eligibility. He noted that the current state of readability in preventive cardiology overall is low, which genAI may be able to help with.

“The current state with readability leaves much to be improved,” he said. “There were great data led by Keon Pearson, MD, a resident at Stanford, suggesting that of 27 unique websites reviewed addressing the question of lipoprotein, only 1 website even crossed the lower bound of the recommended reading level, below the sixth-grade level.”

Addressing medication and treatment use may benefit from the use of genAI. Studies have previously shown that more than half of those who had been prescribed statins had discontinued their use, at least temporarily.² genAI can be used to identify the reasons for these discontinuations as well as evaluate the public perceptions around medications.

With all of these impressive uses of genAI, it is easy to forget about the weaknesses of the platform. Public-facing misinformation regarding prevention is way more accessible and more numerous than accurate information, which may be used to train genAI and lead to the promotion of inaccurate information.

“I think we are at a point, especially with generative AI, where it has become democratized, where we can participate in the conversation in a much more robust manner than we could 10 years ago. You do not need to be a software engineer to understand the implications nor the penetration of these technologies potentially on our lives or our patients’ lives,” said Sarraju.

Sarraju questioned whether efforts to mitigate propagation through genAI should be undertaken, with conversations around what can be done to mitigate inappropriate uses of the technology.

Wearable and Mobile Technologies Can Provide Take-Home Care

Wearables and mobile technologies also have a promising future in preventive cardiology, according to Seth Martin, MD, MHS, FASPC, professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University. Wearable technologies, he said, can help to empower patients and providers, improve outcomes, improve experience of care, and reduce health care costs when used effectively.

“I think when it comes to the applications of this in cardiovascular disease, in prevention, it’s really anything you can think of. It’s hard to think of something where these tools will not have an impact,” he said.

Technologies that can be utilized in this way include smartphone apps, smartwatches, text messaging, telehealth, virtual reality, and even AI to assess health and wellness, coronary disease, cardiometabolic risk, and mental health among other health applications. Measuring steps, heart rate, exercise, and heart rhythm can help doctors make informed decisions surrounding treatment methods for their patients. Using these technologies alongside community input or engagement can help to increase physical activity, promote adequate sleep, encourage healthy dietary intakes, and quit smoking, which can reduce disparities.

Although all of these new gadgets are exciting, throwing them at problems is not always the way to go, said Martin. Instead, doctors should understand what problem they are trying to solve and work backward to create solutions. This is the approach that was taken with the smartphone app, Corrie, to encourage cardiovascular health, which proved effective. After patients used the app, 30-day all-cause readmissions were only 6.5% compared with 16.8% in those who did not use the technology.³

“We basically gave a comprehensive smartphone tool to educate and empower patients to take an active role in their care,” said Martin. “In the post–myocardial infarction setting, they started using this app in the hospital, and as they transitioned home, it helped with meds and their lifestyle and so forth.”

Technology can also be used to deliver rehab for those who require it, including through asynchronous, synchronous, and combination methods. In the case of some patients, discharge papers may be discarded or not followed after the patient is discharged from the hospital. Apps that provide the care from home and on a more accessible level can be beneficial in making sure the therapies are being followed. Although recent studies on whether mHealth applications were better than usual care in adults have had underwhelming results, Martin emphasized that studies have at least shown equivalence, which is promising.

Physicians should welcome wearable and mobile technologies in their practices as soon as possible, Martin said, as well as inform their patients about which data are the most reliable with these technologies, primarily resting heart rates, step counts, and exercise minutes. He also emphasized training future leaders in technology to be used in the cardiovascular space.

“We can meet people where they are by embracing these technologies that are in our hands and on our wrists, that are increasingly integrated into our lives. I don’t think it’s about technology replacing us, but rather the master clinician of tomorrow learning to balance technology with human touch,” he concluded.

References

1. Sarraju A, Bruemmer D, Van Iterson E, Cho L, Rodriguez F, Laffin L. Appropriateness of cardiovascular disease prevention recommendations obtained from a popular online chat-based artificial intelligence model. JAMA. 2023;329(10):842-844. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.1044

2. Zhang H, Plutzky J, Skentzos S. Discontinuation of statins in routine care settings: a cohort study. Ann Intern Med. 2013;158(7):526-534. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-158-7-201304020-00004

3. Marvel FA, Spaulding EM, Lee MA, et al. Digital health intervention in acute myocardial infarction. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes. 2021; 14(7):e007741. doi:10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.121.007741

New York City, NY, Aug. 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Audizen Drops’ Official Launch: A Science-Backed Solution for Sciatic Nerve Discomfort – Audizen for Neuropathy

In 2025, a new contender has emerged in the realm of nerve health supplements: Audizen Drops, a liquid dietary supplement designed to address sciatic nerve discomfort. As the prevalence of sciatica and related neuropathic conditions rises, driven by factors like sedentary lifestyles and aging populations, Audizen Drops aims to provide a natural, science-informed approach to managing nerve pain. This article explores the official launch of Audizen Drops, its formulation, the science behind its ingredients, and its place in the evolving landscape of nerve health support, presented in a neutral and informative manner.

Explore Audizen – Inspired by Audifort, Now Available in US, UK, Canada & Australia

Understanding Sciatic Nerve Discomfort

The sciatic nerve, the body’s largest nerve, extends from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. When compressed or irritated, it can cause sciatica, a condition marked by sharp, radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations along its path. Sciatica can stem from herniated discs, spinal stenosis, muscle imbalances, or prolonged sitting, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe, mobility-limiting pain. For many, sciatica disrupts daily activities, sleep, and overall well-being, prompting a search for effective, non-invasive solutions.

Traditional treatments, such as pain relievers, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections, often focus on symptom relief but may not address underlying factors like inflammation or nerve sensitivity. This has fueled demand for natural supplements like Audizen Drops, which aim to support nerve health and reduce discomfort through a holistic approach.

The Official Launch of Audizen Drops

Audizen Drops, developed by Audizen Labs in the United States, was officially launched in 2025 as a liquid supplement tailored for sciatic nerve discomfort and neuropathy. Unlike conventional oral painkillers, Audizen Drops utilizes a sublingual delivery method—administered under the tongue—for faster absorption and bioavailability. The product is manufactured in FDA-registered, GMP-certified facilities, emphasizing purity, safety, and quality control. Audizen Labs positions the drops as a non-GMO, plant-based solution free of artificial additives, targeting health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals.

The launch of Audizen Drops is rooted in the vision of its lead formulator, Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a neurologist inspired by her patients’ struggles with chronic nerve pain. The supplement is designed to address what Audizen Labs calls the “neuropathy triad”: inflammation reduction, nerve function support, and pain signal modulation. Available exclusively through the official Audizen website, the product comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, reflecting the brand’s confidence in its efficacy.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Audizen Drops combines a blend of natural ingredients with scientific backing for nerve health and inflammation management. Below is an overview of its primary components and their purported benefits:

• Ginkgo Biloba Extract
  Ginkgo biloba is renowned for improving blood circulation, particularly to peripheral nerves. Enhanced blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to the sciatic nerve, potentially reducing discomfort caused by poor circulation. Studies, such as those in Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (2019), suggest ginkgo biloba may alleviate neuropathic pain by supporting microcirculation and reducing oxidative stress.
• Magnesium (as Magnesium Citrate)
  Magnesium is critical for nerve function and muscle relaxation. It modulates NMDA receptors, which play a role in pain signaling. A 2021 study from the University of Maryland found that magnesium supplementation reduced neuropathic pain intensity by up to 38% in some patients. Magnesium citrate, used in Audizen Drops, is highly bioavailable, supporting nerve signal regulation and muscle comfort.
• Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin)
  Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve repair and maintaining the myelin sheath, which insulates nerve fibers. Deficiencies are linked to worsened neuropathy symptoms, including tingling and numbness. Research in Neurology (2020) indicates B12 supplementation can improve nerve function in neuropathic conditions, making it a key component for sciatica support.
• Hibiscus Extract
  Hibiscus is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation around the sciatic nerve, it may alleviate pressure and pain. While less studied for neuropathy specifically, hibiscus’s antioxidant effects, noted in Phytotherapy Research (2018), suggest potential benefits for reducing nerve-related inflammation.
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
  ALA is a powerful antioxidant that protects nerve cells from oxidative damage, a contributor to neuropathy. Clinical trials, such as those in Diabetes Care (2018), have shown ALA reduces burning and numbness in diabetic neuropathy, suggesting applicability for sciatica. Its ability to regenerate other antioxidants enhances its protective effects.
• Hawthorn Berry Extract
  Hawthorn supports cardiovascular health and circulation, ensuring nerves receive adequate blood flow. Its antioxidant properties, documented in Journal of Herbal Medicine (2020), may also reduce inflammation, supporting nerve health indirectly.
• Gymnema Sylvestre
  This herb is known for its anti-inflammatory and nerve-soothing properties. Preliminary studies, such as those in Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2017), suggest it may calm overactive nerve signals, reducing sensations like tingling or burning in neuropathic conditions.
• Neurocalm Blend
  Audizen’s proprietary Neurocalm Blend is described as a combination of adaptogenic herbs and nerve-supporting nutrients. While specifics are not fully disclosed, it likely enhances the formula’s calming and anti-inflammatory effects, targeting nerve hypersensitivity.

How Audizen Drops Work?

Audizen Drops employs a multi-pronged approach to address sciatic nerve discomfort:

• Reducing Inflammation: Hibiscus, hawthorn, and ALA target inflammation, a key driver of sciatic pain, by neutralizing free radicals and calming immune responses.
• Supporting Nerve Function: Vitamin B12, magnesium, and ginkgo biloba nourish nerve cells, promote repair, and enhance signal transmission.
• Improving Circulation: Ginkgo biloba and hawthorn ensure optimal blood flow to the sciatic nerve, reducing discomfort caused by nutrient deficiencies.
• Modulating Pain Signals: Gymnema sylvestre and the Neurocalm Blend soothe overactive nerves, reducing sensations like burning or tingling.

The sublingual delivery method allows ingredients to bypass the digestive system, entering the bloodstream directly for faster effects. Users are advised to take 2–6 drops daily under the tongue, preferably with a meal, for consistent results. Some report noticing improvements within weeks, though Audizen Labs recommends 60–90 days of use for optimal benefits.

The Science Behind Audizen Drops

The ingredients in Audizen Drops are supported by varying degrees of scientific evidence. Ginkgo biloba’s role in improving circulation is well-documented, with a 2019 meta-analysis in Journal of Clinical Pharmacology noting its efficacy in reducing neuropathic symptoms. ALA has shown promise in clinical trials for diabetic neuropathy, with a 2018 study in Diabetes Care reporting a 30% reduction in pain scores after 12 weeks. Vitamin B12 and magnesium also have robust evidence for nerve health, with studies like the 2020 Neurology trial highlighting their role in nerve repair.

However, some ingredients, like hibiscus and gymnema sylvestre, have less direct evidence for sciatica specifically, relying more on their general anti-inflammatory and nerve-soothing properties. The proprietary Neurocalm Blend’s lack of transparency raises questions about its exact contributions, as independent evaluation is challenging. While Audizen Drops offers a promising blend, it is not a replacement for medical treatments addressing structural causes of sciatica, such as herniated discs.

User Experiences and Feedback

Since its 2025 launch, Audizen Drops has received mixed feedback. Users on the official website report reduced pain and improved mobility, with one 52-year-old user from Texas noting a “significant decrease in leg numbness” after six weeks. Another user, aged 47, reported better sleep due to less nerve discomfort. 

However, some independent reviews on platforms like Snoopviews express skepticism, with one user describing minimal effects after three weeks and concerns about unclear ingredient details. Mild side effects, such as slight digestive upset, have been reported but are rare. Audizen Drops is comparable to other premium nerve supplements. 

Multi-bottle packages offer discounts, and the 60-day refund policy mitigates risk. Critics note that the cost may be high compared to standalone magnesium or B12 supplements, though the liquid format and comprehensive formula justify the price for some.

Safety and Considerations

Audizen Drops is formulated with natural, non-GMO ingredients and is free of stimulants, making it generally safe for daily use. However, individuals on blood thinners or with chronic conditions should consult a healthcare provider, as ginkgo biloba may interact with certain medications. 

The sublingual method enhances absorption but requires consistent use for best results. Pregnant or nursing individuals should avoid use without medical advice. The exclusive online availability ensures product authenticity but may inconvenience those preferring retail purchases. Audizen Labs advises buying only from the official website to avoid counterfeits.

Audizen Drops in the Market

Audizen Drops enters a crowded market alongside supplements like SciatiEase and Nerve Renew, which also target sciatic nerve discomfort. Its liquid format and sublingual delivery set it apart, offering faster absorption than capsules. The inclusion of ginkgo biloba and ALA aligns with evidence-based trends, though proprietary blends like Neurocalm may draw scrutiny for transparency.

Compared to competitors, Audizen’s focus on both nerve health and inflammation reduction is a strength, but it’s not a cure for structural sciatica causes. It’s best suited as a complementary tool alongside physical therapy, exercise, or posture correction.

The Future of Audizen Drops

As Audizen Drops gains traction post-launch, its success will depend on consistent user outcomes and further transparency about its proprietary blend. The science behind its core ingredients is promising, and the sublingual format offers a novel delivery method. 

For those seeking a natural approach to sciatic nerve discomfort, Audizen Drops provides a compelling option, though it should be paired with medical advice for comprehensive care. 

Discover the Science Behind Audizen Drops for Hearing Clarity and Tinnitus Relief

In summary

Audizen Drops’ official launch introduces a thoughtfully crafted supplement for sciatic nerve discomfort and neuropathy. By targeting inflammation, nerve health, and pain signals, it offers a natural path to relief, backed by a 60-day guarantee. While not a standalone solution, it represents a meaningful step toward holistic nerve health support.

Project Name: Audizen Drops

Address: 382 NE 191st St PMP 82029 Miami, FL, 33179, USA

Postal Code: 33179

Media Contact

Email: support@getaudizen.com

In the early 1920s, on the left bank of the Seine just outside Paris, a small laboratory garden bloomed on a plot of land sandwiched between the soaring Paris Observatory and the sprawling grounds of Chalais Park. Unlike a typical garden filled with well-groomed plants and the smell of fresh-turned soil, this garden had an industrial feel. Dubbed “the Garden of Wonders” by a contemporary journalist, the plot was lined with elevated white boxes fed with water from large glass canisters. Nearby greenhouses included equally unusual accessories. But it’s what happened inside the low-slung laboratory buildings that made this garden so wondrous.

In August 1925, Popular Science contributing writer Norman C. McCloud described how Daniel Berthelot—a decorated chemist and physicist from France—was conducting revolutionary “factory-made vegetable” experiments in his Garden of Wonders. Berthelot, son of Marcellin Berthelot, a renowned 19th century chemist and French diplomat, was using the garden to expand upon his father’s groundbreaking work. Starting in 1851, the elder Berthelot began creating synthetic organic compounds, such as fats and sugars (he coined the name “triglyceride”), from inorganic compounds like hydrogen, carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen. It was a revolutionary first step toward artificial food.

“[The younger] Berthelot already has produced foodstuffs artificially by subjecting various gases to the influence of ultra-violet light,” wrote McCloud. “These experiments,” he added, quoting Berthelot, “show that by means of light, vegetable foods can be manufactured from air gases.” But Berthelot’s experiment didn’t exactly catch on. A century later, most food is still grown the traditional way—by plants—but the idea of manufacturing food in controlled, factory environments has been gaining ground. In fact, Berthelot’s revolutionary idea may finally be bearing fruit—just not in the way he imagined.

A revolution in food chemistry

Berthelot never fully accomplished his goal of trying to artificially reproduce what plants do naturally. Nonetheless, his experiments, as sensational as they might seem today, would have been considered quite plausible in 1925. That’s because his father’s discoveries had unleashed a revolution in chemistry and a tidal wave of optimism about the future of food. By the 1930s, chemists had begun synthesizing everything from basic nutrients, like vitamins, to medicines, like aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), to food additives, such as artificial thickeners, emulsifiers, colors, and flavors.

In an interview for McClure’s magazine in 1894 dubbed “Foods in the Year 2000,” Berthelot’s father boldly predicted that all foods would be artificial by the year 2000. “The epicure of the future is to dine upon artificial meat, artificial flour, and artificial vegetables,” wrote Henry Dam for McClure’s, articulating Marcellin Berthelot’s vision. “Wheat fields and corn fields are to disappear from the face of the earth. Herds of cattle, flocks of sheep, and droves of swine will cease to be bred because beef and mutton and pork will be manufactured direct[ly] from their elements.”

Welcome to the Garden of Wonders

Such was the vision that the younger Berthelot was pursuing in his Garden of Wonders. His goal, he told McCloud, was to produce “sugar and starch from the elements without the intervention of living organisms.” To achieve this, Berthelot envisioned a factory with “glass tanks of great capacity.” Gases would be pumped into the tanks, and “suspended from the ceiling [would] be lamps producing the rays of ultra-violet light.” Berthelot imagined that when the chemical elements combined “through the glass walls of the tank we shall see something in the nature of a gentle snowfall that will accumulate on the floor of the tanks…our finished product—vegetable starches and vegetable sugars created in a faithful reproduction of the works of nature.”

By 1925, he had succeeded in using light and gas (carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen) to create the basic compound formamide, which is used to produce sulfa drugs (a kind of synthetic antibiotic) and other medicines as well as industrial products. But his progress toward reproducing photosynthesis ended there. Berthelot died just two years after McCloud’s story ran in Popular Science, in 1927, without ever realizing his dream.

Despite the bold predictions of the time, producing food from only air and light was wildly aspirational in 1925, if for no other reason than photosynthesis was poorly understood. The term had only been coined a few decades earlier when Charles Barnes, an influential American botanist, lobbied for a more precise description of a plant’s internal mechanisms than the generic “assimilation” then in favor. Chlorophyll had been discovered in the prior century, but what happened at a cellular level in plants remained largely theoretical until the 1950s. Although Berthelot may have been onto something with his experiments, adding to the momentum that became the artificial food industry, he was a long way from replicating what comes naturally to plants. We still are, but recent discoveries may have enabled a workaround—depending on your definition of “food.”

A modern answer to Berthelot’s innovative garden

From vertical indoor farms to hydroponics to genetically modified crops, since the 1960s commercial agriculture has been focused on coaxing more yield from fewer resources, including land, water, and nutrients. The drive began when Nobel Peace Prize winner Norman Borlaug, an American biologist, helped spark the Green Revolution by selectively breeding a grain-packed, dwarf variety of wheat. The theoretical limit of that revolutionary goal would liberate food production from traditional agriculture altogether, eliminating all resources except air and light—Berthelot’s original vision.

In the last century, we’ve inched toward creating food from nothing, making progress by teasing apart the incredibly complex biochemical pathways associated with plant physiology. But if we’ve learned anything since Berthelot’s experiments, it’s that photosynthesis—what plants are naturally programmed to do—can’t be easily replicated industrially. But that hasn’t stopped a handful of companies from trying.

In April 2024, Solar Foods opened a factory in Vantaa, Finland—a sleek facility where workers monitor large tanks filled with atmospheric gases. Inside the tanks, water transforms into a protein-rich slurry. Dehydrated, the slurry becomes a golden powder packed with protein and other nutrients, ready to be turned into pasta, ice cream, and protein bars. The powdery substance, Solein, resembles Berthelot’s vision, as does the factory, which uses atmospheric gases to enable “food production anywhere in the world,” according to a 2025 company press release, “as production is not dependent on weather, climate conditions, or land use.” But the similarities with Berthelot’s vision end there. Solar Foods may not require land or plants to produce food, but their technology derives from a living organism. Using a form of fermentation, it relies on a microbe to digest air and water to produce protein.

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The U.S.-based company Kiverdi uses a similar microbial fermentation process, first devised by NASA as far back as the 1960s for deep space travel, to convert carbon dioxide into protein. Austria-based Arkeon Technologies has developed its own microbial fermentation process to also produce food from carbon dioxide without the need for land or other nutrients. Microbial fermentation may represent a promising new chapter in synthetic foods, but don’t expect tomatoes or corn to materialize from thin air anytime soon—it’s not artificial photosynthesis.

While Berthelot’s understanding of photosynthesis was primitive a century ago, he was ahead of his time in many ways, and his vision was remarkably prescient. Although we still haven’t figured out how to replicate photosynthesis chemically—literally growing fruits and vegetables as plants do from air and light—it’s worth acknowledging the strides we’ve made in just the last decade: Companies like Arkeon Technologies and Kiverdi may help remove excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while offering solutions to future food shortages. Or they may not. Only the next century will tell.

Q. I had quadruple bypass heart surgery 25 years ago. Following the procedure, my cardiologist put me on the higher dose (325 milligrams) aspirin. I have stayed on this dose all these years with no problems.

I recently went to a cardiology nurse practitioner who suggested I should get off this dose and go to the baby aspirin dose. I am leery of doing this. Should I get back in touch with my cardiologist before changing the dose?

A. For decades, Americans were told to take a standard dose aspirin pill (325 milligrams) to prevent a heart attack. Then, that advice was modified, and the recommended dose was lowered to 81 milligrams. That is a so-called baby aspirin, although pediatricians do not recommend giving children aspirin. The dosage reduction for adults was to reduce the risk of stomach irritation or bleeding.

In recent years, most cardiologists have determined that otherwise healthy people do not need to take aspirin. Their fear is that bleeding episodes could counterbalance any benefit such individuals might gain from even a small aspirin dose. People like you, however, are at higher risk for heart problems because you had bypass surgery. Doctors usually advise them to continue taking aspirin.

While you certainly could check with your cardiologist, the cardiology nurse practitioner seems to be up to date on the prescribing guidelines. The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology both recommend that people take aspirin indefinitely following bypass surgery, with 81 milligrams considered an acceptable dose for many individuals.

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or email them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is “Top Screwups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them.”

HTLV-1 is a cancer-causing retrovirus known to lead to adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL), an aggressive and often fatal disease. Although most infected individuals remain asymptomatic for life, a fraction eventually develops leukemia or other inflammatory conditions. The virus achieves long-term persistence by entering a “latent” state, during which its genetic material hides inside the host’s genome with minimal activity — evading immune detection.

In this study, the research team, led by Professor Yorifumi Satou from the Joint Research Center for Human Retrovirus, Kumamoto University, identified a specific region within the HTLV-1 genome that functions as a viral silencer. This sequence recruits host transcription factors, particularly the RUNX1 complex, which suppresses the virus’s gene expression. When this silencer region was removed or mutated, the virus became more active, leading to greater immune recognition and clearance in lab models.

Remarkably, when the HTLV-1 silencer was artificially inserted into HIV-1 — the virus that causes AIDS — the HIV virus adopted a more latent-like state, with reduced replication and cell killing. This suggests that the silencer mechanism could potentially be harnessed to design better therapies for HIV as well.

“This is the first time we’ve uncovered a built-in mechanism that allows a human leukemia virus to regulate its own invisibility,” said Professor Satou. “It’s a clever evolutionary tactic, and now that we understand it, we might be able to turn the tables in treatment.”

The findings offer hope not only for understanding and treating HTLV-1, especially in endemic regions like southwestern Japan, but also for broader retroviral infections.

Published on August 1 in JAMA Network Open, the study analyzed the health records of more than 12,000 people in British Columbia and found that those with MS began using healthcare services at elevated rates 15 years before their first MS symptoms appear.

The findings challenge long-held assumptions about when the disease truly begins, offering the most comprehensive picture to date of how patients engage with a range of healthcare providers in the years leading up to a diagnosis as they search for answers to ill-defined medical challenges.

“MS can be difficult to recognize as many of the earliest signs — like fatigue, headache, pain and mental health concerns — can be quite general and easily mistaken for other conditions,” said senior author Dr. Helen Tremlett, professor of neurology at UBC’s faculty of medicine and investigator at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health. “Our findings dramatically shift the timeline for when these early warning signs are thought to begin, potentially opening the door to opportunities for earlier detection and intervention.”

The study used linked clinical and administrative provincial health data to track physician visits in the 25 years leading up to the onset of a patient’s MS symptoms, as determined by a neurologist through detailed medical history and clinical assessments.

It is the first study to examine healthcare usage this far back in a patient’s clinical history. Most previous studies only examined trends in the five to 10 years leading up to a patient’s first demyelinating event (such as vision problems) using administrative data. This is a much later benchmark compared to the neurologist-determined date of symptom onset.

The findings revealed that, when compared to the general population, people with MS had a steady build-up of healthcare engagement over 15 years with different types of doctor visits increasing at distinct points in time:

• 15 years before symptom onset: Visits to general practice physicians increased, as did visits to any physician for symptoms like fatigue, pain, dizziness and mental health conditions including anxiety and depression.
• 12 years before: Visits to a psychiatrist increased.
• Eight to nine years before: Visits to neurologists and ophthalmologists increased, which could relate to issues like blurry vision or eye pain.
• Three to five years before: Emergency medicine and radiology visits increased.
• One year before: Physician visits across multiple specialties peaked, including neurology, emergency medicine and radiology.

“These patterns suggest that MS has a long and complex prodromal phase — where something is happening beneath the surface but hasn’t yet declared itself as MS,” said Dr. Marta Ruiz-Algueró, a postdoctoral fellow at UBC and the study’s first author. “We’re only now starting to understand what these early warning signs are, with mental health-related issues appearing to be among the earliest indicators.”

The study builds on previous work by Dr. Tremlett and her team to characterize the early stages of MS, or prodromal phase, when subtle symptoms appear before the hallmark signs become recognizable. Prodromal periods are well established in other neurological disorders, like Parkinson’s disease, where mood changes, sleep disturbances and constipation often arise years before the more familiar motor symptoms like tremors and stiffness.

While the researchers caution that the vast majority of people who experience general symptoms will not go on to develop MS, they say recognizing and characterizing the MS prodrome could one day help accelerate diagnosis and improve outcomes for patients.

“By identifying these earlier red flags, we may eventually be able to intervene sooner — whether that’s through monitoring, support or preventive strategies,” said Dr. Tremlett. “It opens new avenues for research into early biomarkers, lifestyle factors and other potential triggers that may be at play during this previously overlooked phase of the disease.”

If you have high cholesterol, you’re likely turning to your diet to make changes to help keep your cholesterol in check. Maybe you’ve have heard that upping fiber and reducing saturated fat and added sugar can positively affect cholesterol levels. Still, you may not have heard of one beverage that may also have a beneficial effect—tea. “Traditional tea contains antioxidants and offers health benefits such as cancer prevention and cholesterol reduction,” says Lisa Andrews, M.E.d., RD, LD. Because of this, it can be a healthful addition to most diets.

Why Green Tea Is So Great for Lowering Cholesterol

Green tea may be one of the most beneficial teas when it comes to the potential for lowering cholesterol levels. Green tea, along with other types of tea, is a source of various types of polyphenols. “The polyphenols in the tea leaves provide antioxidants,” says Wan Na Chun, M.P.H., RD, CPT.

Some studies have found a connection between green tea consumption and a slight reduction in LDL cholesterol. Other studies have looked specifically at cholesterol levels in populations with other chronic conditions and have found a benefit when adding green tea to the diet.

More specifically, a small study found that people with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy (kidney disease) who drank three cups of green tea per day had a reduction in total cholesterol. The tea was consumed before a meal, and other factors in the diet were not controlled, so it’s impossible to know if the tea alone impacted cholesterol or if other dietary changes positively affected cholesterol. Still, the results are promising for green tea’s potential impact on total cholesterol.

A meta-analysis found similar results. This review found that consuming green tea may significantly help lower both total and LDL cholesterol (also known as “bad” cholesterol). However, this study also had limitations, including not determining the amount of green tea needed to influence cholesterol levels.

Brooke Baird, RDN, says the optimal amount of tea required to help lower cholesterol levels is not clearly defined. “It can vary depending on individual factors such as age, health status and overall diet and lifestyle,” says Baird. It’s also important to note that many studies investigating the effect of green tea on cholesterol use a mix of green tea extract and green tea as a beverage. However, most of the studies are looking at the catechin concentration, which is the compound thought to have the most significant impact on cholesterol levels.

Catechins are flavonoids (a type of antioxidant) found in green tea. One of the most well-known catechins in green tea is EGCG. “Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has been heavily researched and shown to be very effective in decreasing cholesterol,” says Umo Callins, M.S., RD, LD, CSSD, CPT. Green tea’s effect on lipid levels is thought to be multifaceted. In addition to preventing oxidation of LDL, which leads to plaque formation in your arteries, “Studies show green tea may significantly inhibit lipid absorption in the intestine, which is beneficial for lowering cholesterol,” says Chun.

More Research Is Needed

While drinking tea, particularly green tea, may be beneficial for lowering cholesterol levels, more research is still needed.

“The FDA has not approved any health claims for green tea beverages to reduce cardiovascular disease risk,” says Chun. It is best to consult a healthcare professional before using tea to help manage high cholesterol, adds Chun.

Tea also contains caffeine, which can have adverse side effects when consumed excessively. “Drinking excessive amounts of caffeinated tea could lead to side effects like headaches, insomnia, irritability, dizziness and anxiety,” says Chun. Excess caffeine intake can also lead to gastrointestinal symptoms in some cases. However, green tea’s total caffeine content is lower than that of other caffeinated beverages like coffee. For reference, one cup of green tea contains around 30 milligrams of caffeine, compared to 100 mg in a traditional cup of coffee.

Other teas, particularly ones made of herbs, may also have unintended side effects. “Herbal teas can interfere with some medications like blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, anti-seizure drugs, aspirin, blood pressure medications and diabetes treatments,” says Chun. It’s important to review your medications and any supplements or teas with a healthcare professional.

Safety Tips and Best Practices

If you plan to add green tea to your daily routine, then it’s best to do so in a way that will help you increase the healthfulness of your diet as a whole. Avoid green tea with excess added sugar, which can negatively impact your overall health. Choosing a high-quality tea from a reputable company that tests for pesticides and other contaminants is also important. Many companies will provide their testing procedures on their website or will provide a Certificate of Analysis upon request. You can also look for companies that follow Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) to ensure quality.

Our Expert Take

Tea can be a delicious, health-promoting beverage to add to your diet. Choosing tea, especially green tea, may have a beneficial effect on total cholesterol. However, it’s best to avoid drinking tea with added sugar to reap the greatest benefit. “While tea can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s essential to consume it as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle,” says Callins. “Consult with a health care professional if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.”