The health risks of night shifts; cannabis use affects teen mood, academic performance; fathers’ microplastics may affect kids’ metabolic health – Morning Medical Update

The health risks of night shifts

Disrupting the body’s internal clock may help aggressive breast cancer grow and spread, according to a study from Texas A&M University. Published in Oncogene, the research found earlier cancer onset, more aggressive tumors and more lung metastases in models exposed to irregular light cycles. Lead author Tapasree Roy Sarkar, Ph.D., M.S., said circadian disruption weakens immune defenses, but blocking an immune “off switch” called LILRB4 reduced tumor spread — pointing to a possible treatment angle for night-shift workers.

Cannabis use impacts teen mood and academic performance

Using marijuana just once or twice a month may still take a toll on teens, according to a national study led by Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Published in Pediatrics, the study found infrequent users reported more emotional distress and impulsivity, while near-daily users were far more likely to struggle academically. Lead author Ryan Sultán, M.D., said the findings challenge the idea that “light” cannabis use is harmless, especially with today’s higher-potency products and still-developing adolescent brains.

Fathers’ microplastics exposure may affect kids’ metabolic health

A study from University of California, Riverside suggests a father’s exposure to microplastics could raise metabolic risks in his children. Published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society, the research found female mice offspring were more likely to develop diabetic traits when fed a high-fat diet, even though the fathers were not obese. Lead author Changcheng Zhou said changes in sperm RNA — not DNA — appear to pass along the risk. The findings add to growing concerns that plastic exposure may have health effects across generations.