Mpox memes on social media spread misinformation and stigma; face mask detects CKD on your breath; AI trained on NHS records could forecast future illness – Morning Medical Update

Mpox memes on social media raise awareness — but 4 in 10 spread misinformation or stigma

A content analysis of 200 English-language mpox-related memes found that while 60% promoted public health awareness, 40% contained misinformation or stigmatized marginalized groups — particularly LGBTQ+ communities. The study, published May 7 in PLOS Global Public Health by researchers at Makerere University, highlights memes as a double-edged tool: they can engage audiences through humor and encourage health-seeking behaviors, but also amplify fear and conspiracy theories. The authors call for partnerships with social media influencers and targeted public health strategies to maximize accurate messaging and minimize harm.

New face mask detects kidney disease from breath with 84% accuracy

A modified surgical face mask embedded with a chemical sensor can detect chronic kidney disease (CKD) by analyzing a person’s breath, according to a study published May 7 in ACS Sensors. Researchers in Italy and Spain developed the device using conductive polymers and porphyrins to identify CKD-related compounds like ammonia, ethanol and acetone. In a clinical test of 100 participants, the mask correctly identified CKD 84% of the time and ruled it out 88% of the time. The authors say the low-cost, noninvasive mask could eventually help track disease progression and expand access to early diagnosis.

AI model trained on 57 million NHS records could forecast future illness

A new generative AI model called Foresight, trained on anonymized data from 57 million patients in England, may soon help predict serious health events like heart attacks or hospitalizations before they occur. Developed by researchers at University College London and King’s College London, Foresight is part of a national pilot using NHS data — including GP visits, emergency admissions and vaccinations — to identify early warning signs of disease. While researchers say the model could improve preventive care and health equity, experts caution about the limitations of NHS data quality and privacy risks. pharmaphorum has more.