Ear wax could be an early indicator of Parkinson’s; ACOG condemns violence related to reproductive health care; high-dose antihistamines may stunt fitness gains – Morning Medical Update

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Ear wax could be an early indicator of Parkinson’s disease

A new study in Analytical Chemistry found that compounds in ear wax could serve as early biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease. Researchers from China trained an artificial intelligence (AI) system to detect changes in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from ear wax samples and achieved 94% accuracy in distinguishing patients with Parkinson’s from healthy individuals. And, unlike skin sebum, ear wax is protected from environmental exposure, making it a more stable testing medium.

ACOG condemns violent threats against reproductive health clinicians

In a statement on Tuesday, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) condemned escalating acts of violence targeting clinicians who provide reproductive care. ACOG leaders cited recent threats to members in Minnesota and a May bombing at a fertility clinic as part of a disturbing trend of ideologically motivated attacks.

“Working to improve lives should not cause [physicians] to risk their own,” said Steven J. Fleischman, M.D., FACOG, president of ACOG. The group called on politicians to denounce this violence and uphold protections like the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

High-dose antihistamines may stunt fitness gains

A University of Oregon study suggests that blocking histamine with high doses of antihistamines can cut aerobic fitness gains in half. In a six-week cycling trial, participants who took antihistamines ahead of workouts saw significantly less improvement than those on a placebo. The findings, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, reveal histamine’s key role in blood flow, muscle recovery and gene activation after exercise. It should be noted that the study looked at much higher doses than are in common allergy meds, like Claritin.