Taurine not a reliable biomarker of aging; most Americans can’t identify high blood pressure; patients twice as likely to complete mail-in HPV self-tests — Morning Medical Update

Taurine is not a reliable marker of aging, despite supplement hype

National Institutes of Health (NIH) researchers have concluded that taurine, an amino acid touted for its anti-aging potential, is unlikely to serve as a universal biomarker of aging. In a cross-species analysis of humans, monkeys, and mice, taurine levels did not consistently decline with age and varied more within individuals than across age groups. Published in Science, the findings challenge the idea that taurine levels can predict biological aging, despite recent studies linking taurine supplements to improved lifespan in animals.

Most American don’t know what is considered high blood pressure

A new survey from the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds general confusion about what is considered “high blood pressure,” a leading risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Just 13% of U.S. adults correctly identified 130/80 mm Hg as the threshold for high blood pressure, and more than a third wrongly believe the condition has noticeable symptoms like dizziness or shortness of breath. Despite strong awareness of lifestyle changes that lower blood pressure, fewer than three-quarters say they consistently follow them.

Mailed HPV self-tests double cervical cancer screening rates in underserved women

Mail-in HPV self-collection kits significantly boosted cervical cancer screening participation in a study led by researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the PRESTIS trial found that 41% of women who received a test by mail, along with a phone reminder, completed screening — more than double the 17% rate among those who received only a reminder call. Adding patient navigation raised participation to 47%.