Medical Bulletin 28/February/2023

Here are the top medical news for the day:

Sydney based- researchers identify novel technology to improve cancer detection and treatment

Cancer is a leading cause of illness and death in Australia, with more than 150,000 Australians diagnosed every year. Those with suspected cancer, particularly in organs such as the liver, colon or kidney, often require surgery for a definitive diagnosis.

Researchers from the University of Technology Sydney have developed a new device that can detect and analyse cancer cells from blood samples, enabling doctors to avoid invasive biopsy surgeries, and to monitor treatment progress.

Reference:

Rapid metabolomic screening of cancer cells via high-throughput static droplet microfluidics,Biosensors and Bioelectronics,doi 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114966

Common artificial sweetener linked to higher rates of heart attack and stroke

Artificial sweeteners, such as erythritol, are common replacements for table sugar in low-calorie, low-carbohydrate and “keto” products. Sugar-free products containing erythritol are often recommended for people who have obesity, diabetes or metabolic syndrome and are looking for options to help manage their sugar or calorie intake. People with these conditions also are at higher risk for adverse cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.