Stephen Molepo

Can scientists 'hack' memory?

Is it possible to manipulate memory formation and consolidation? And why would we want to do it? We explore these questions in this Spotlight feature.
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Poor diet biggest risk factor for early deaths worldwide

A global study links 1 in 5 deaths to poor diet, suggesting that low intake of fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes is a major factor.
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'Even moderate alcohol consumption increases stroke risk'

A large cohort study in a Chinese population contradicts previous findings suggesting that moderate alcohol intake can protect against stroke.
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What to know about female sex hormones

Summary description Female sex hormones, or sex steroids, play crucial roles in sexual development, sexual desire, and reproduction. They also influence body weight and hair, bone, and muscle growth. Learn more about the types and roles of these hormones here.
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Are large areolas normal?

Areolas can be large or small, and they come in many different shapes and colors. They can also change over time, for example, with age or during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Learn more about areola size and reduction options here.
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Signs and symptoms of colon cancer in men

Many symptoms can indicate colon cancer in men, including bowel changes, weight loss, cramps, and bloody stool. However, these symptoms can also be due to other causes. Learn more about colon cancer symptoms and when to see a doctor here.
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Scientists quash claims about single 'depression genes'

After reviewing data on 620,000-plus people, scientists quash claims that a single or handful of genes can have a strong influence on risk of depression.
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Is it safe to use coconut oil for vaginal dryness?

Some people prefer a more natural approach to relieving vaginal dryness. Pure coconut oil is free from additives, and studies suggest that it is generally safe to use on the skin. Learn more here.
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Is blue balls a real condition?

Blue balls is the informal term for epididymal hypertension, which causes uncomfortable or aching testicles if a person is aroused but does not ejaculate. Learn more about the myths and facts here.
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What causes a low libido?

It is common for a person's libido to fluctuate throughout their life and according to their mood. However, a significant change in libido may be due to an underlying cause. Learn about low libido causes and how to treat them here.
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Mental health can impact memory decades later

A new longitudinal cohort study has confirmed a link between experiencing mental health problems throughout adulthood and having poorer memory in midlife.
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Breast cancer: Estrogen byproducts may predict outlook

New research finds an association between the ratio of two estrogen metabolites and the risk of all-cause mortality among women with breast cancer.
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Can CBD help treat depression?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound that comes from the cannabis plant. It is gaining popularity as a natural treatment for many mental health conditions, including depression. Learn more about CBD for depression here.
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What does the color of period blood mean?

Period blood can vary in color and relays important information about a person’s health. Normal period blood typically varies from bright red to dark brown or black. Blood or discharge that is orange or grey may indicate an infection. Learn more about what the different colors can mean here.
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How 1 hour of brisk walking can benefit people with osteoarthritis

A new study investigates the impact of 1 weekly hour of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity on disability in people with knee osteoarthritis.
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What causes bloody urine in men?

Seeing blood in the urine is a symptom of many underlying problems in males, including infections, an enlarged prostate, and kidney stones. Learn about the causes and their treatments here.
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How to stop getting sick

Some people find that they keep getting sick. Potential causes of frequent sickness include stress and lack of sleep. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the likelihood of a person becoming ill. Learn more about why some people keep getting sick and what to do about it here.
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Wishing others well may boost your own well-being

New research has found a simple psychological technique that could reduce stress and anxiety and make people happier in just 12 minutes.
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Music may enhance the effect of pain relievers

Can music soothe pain? A new study in mice finds that listening to Mozart alongside taking standard pain medication works better than drugs alone.
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Can you get pregnant on your period?

A person can get pregnant at any point in their menstrual cycle, but it is much less likely during their period. In this article, we look at the factors affecting whether someone can get pregnant before, during, and after their period.
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