Introduction  The San Juan Metropolitan Area (SJMA) of Puerto Rico has a remarkably high prevalence of overweight and obesity (77.4%). This is substantially higher than the mainland U.S. adult population rate (68.8%). According to local data, women are more likely to have clinical obesity, while men are more likely to be overweight. This expanding public… Read More Obesity in Puerto Rico: Metabolic Syndrome and its Implications for Surgical Care 

We’re excited to announce the release of Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544)! This edition features a diverse array of articles written by passionate scientists, offering insights into important topics that shape today’s healthcare landscape. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, student, or enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this carefully curated issue.… Read More Out Now! Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 2

“When a system needs change, settling for the same methods out of tradition is no longer viable.”  -Dr. Jorge Martínez Trabal, Puntos Claves: La disrupción positiva al sistema de salud en Puerto Rico I was recently revisiting Puntos Claves, a book I had picked up some time ago, and the line quoted above struck me again with… Read More Navigating Resilience: Rethinking Puerto Rico’s Healthcare System in a Time of Transition

Summary Phototransduction is a light-stimulated process that heavily relies on continuous regeneration of 11-cis-retinal to keep rhodopsin function and adequate visual performance. Vitamin A is essential in this process, serving as a precursor of 11-cis-retinal. However, it is not naturally produced by the human body. A deficiency of this vitamin disrupts phototransduction and can lead to adverse… Read More Vitamin A Deficiency: Effects of Impaired Rhodopsin Regeneration on Photoreceptors

Puerto Rico’s emergency healthcare system suffers from critical deficiencies, including the absence of a fully accredited Level I trauma center, leaving over 3 million citizens vulnerable, particularly in rural areas. These systemic failures, exacerbated by colonial status, inadequate funding, and poor pediatric preparedness, necessitate urgent reforms to ensure equitable access and effective emergency response.… Read More When Seconds Count: Puerto Rico’s Ongoing Emergency Healthcare Crisis

Puberty is the developmental stage where sexual maturity and reproductive capacity are acquired, leading to the adult phenotype. The biological process of puberty involves a complex orchestration of hormonal signaling regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In both sexes, this system is activated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which stimulates the release of  luteinizing… Read More Why do females generally enter puberty earlier than males?

Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in fruits and vegetables that helps prevent cavities by not feeding harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans. Studies indicate significant cavity reduction when consumed properly. Though beneficial, it complements, not replaces, oral hygiene practices. Caution is necessary as it is toxic to dogs.… Read More Xylitol: The Sugar That Fights Cavities?

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a significant threat to public health due to antibiotic overuse, causing millions of infections and thousands of deaths annually. Innovative treatments, including combination therapies and new agents like silver nanoparticles, may enhance effectiveness against resistant strains, thereby preserving antibiotic efficacy and improving patient outcomes in future healthcare.… Read More Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Threat and the Search for New Solutions

For decades, the so-called “War on Drugs” has been driven by punitive policies that not only fail to protect society but have also led to devastating public health consequences and entrenched racial and social inequalities. Drawing on insights from voices such as Dr. Carmen Albizu García and supported by a growing body in interdisciplinary research,… Read More The War on Drugs: A Failed Strategy and the Path Forward

IPEX syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the FOXP3 gene, crucial for regulatory T cell function. Symptoms include enteropathy, endocrinopathy, and dermatitis, appearing early in life. Management involves immunosuppressive therapy, symptom management, and potential hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Research continues to explore treatment innovations and earlier diagnosis.… Read More Decoding IPEX Syndrome: From FOXP3 Mutation to Immunodysregulation

We’re excited to announce the release of Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544)! This edition features a diverse array of articles written by passionate scientists, offering insights into important topics that shape today’s healthcare landscape. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, student, or enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this carefully curated issue.… Read More Out Now! Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Environmental pollution, particularly ocean pollution, remains a relatively overlooked yet critically important global issue. Oceans are essential for the sustenance of human, animal, and plant life. However, they are increasingly threatened by a range of anthropogenic activities—including domestic, industrial, agricultural, and… Read More The Impact of Microplastics on Public Health

Written by: Deyaneira M. Gonzalez Rodriguez This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Imagine waking up and realizing you are unable to move, speak, or even gesture. You are completely paralyzed, yet fully conscious. Trapped inside your own body, you can hear everything around you, but no one… Read More Awake, Aware, and Silent: The Medical Mystery of Locked-in Syndrome

Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and gut microbiome regulation. It aids in nutrient absorption and promotes a strong intestinal lining through the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Adequate vitamin D levels may prevent gastrointestinal diseases and support microbiome diversity. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosages for these benefits.… Read More Impact of Vitamin D on Gut Microbiome

The impact of discrimination on mental health in Puerto Rico is significant, with high levels of perceived discrimination linked to increased depression symptoms among young adults. The study highlights the need for targeted public health strategies addressing this issue, advocating for open discussions to reduce stigma and improve overall well-being in affected communities.… Read More The Unspoken Impact of Discrimination on Depression Symptoms among Young Adults

Oral health significantly impacts overall well-being, influencing systemic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. With billions affected by oral diseases, proper dental care, including effective brushing techniques and regular check-ups, is vital. Raising awareness about the link between oral and systemic health can improve health outcomes and prevent serious diseases.… Read More Oral Health: A Key to Overall Well-Being

Nurses have historically demonstrated resilience and dedication, making significant contributions to healthcare often overlooked. Current challenges, including high turnover intentions and declining well-being, emphasize the need for recognition and support. Honoring nursing history can empower professionals, highlighting their essential roles in patient care and advocating for improvements in the field.… Read More More Than a Helping Hand: The Role of Nursing in the Current Healthcare System

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). There are many physiologic changes that have an effect on the cardiovascular system during pregnancy such as hemodynamic alterations, hypercoagulability, increased cardiac output and oxygen demand, vasodilation, etc. (Morton, 2021). As cardiovascular disease is one of the main indirect contributors to… Read More Management and Risk Prevention for Pregnant Women with Congenital Heart Defects

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. According to the American Heart Association’s latest statistics, 40.3% of cardiovascular deaths are caused by coronary heart disease. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a major causes of coronary… Read More Hormonal Changes and Heart Disease: What Women Need to Know

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 2 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). In the early 20th century, Puerto Rico (PR) had recently been acquired by the United States of America (USA) as part of the Treaty of Paris after the Spanish-Cuban-American War of 1898. Puerto Ricans faced new opportunities and challenges as they… Read More Breaking Barriers: Pioneering Puerto Rican Women in Medicine

We’re excited to announce the release of Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544)! This edition features a diverse array of articles written by passionate scientists, offering insights into important topics that shape today’s healthcare landscape. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, student, or enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this carefully curated issue.… Read More Out Now! Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544). I thought it would be interesting to dive into the current state of insurance practices in the United States and the resounding negative sentiments toward the US healthcare system. With the United States spending the most per capita on healthcare and… Read More A Look into America’s Struggle with Healthcare Access and Insurance Coverage

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544). The external acoustic meatus, also known as the external auditory canal, is a structure found in the external part of the ear that serves to connect the outside world to the middle ear and acts as a passageway for sound waves… Read More Understanding Congenital Aural Atresia: Causes and Treatments

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Hello! Welcome back to the AGEs series. This is the third entry for this series, where we focus on understanding what are Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) and discuss novel research findings on this topic. If you have missed our past… Read More Understanding the Role of AGEs and sRAGE in Diabetes: Insights from Recent Research

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544). People often talk about cancer and the ruthless, painful, and terrifying disease it can be. With incidences in the USA of 440.5 per 100,000 men and women per year (National Institute of Cancer, 2017-2021). According to the World Health Organization, “in… Read More Why Do We Die of Cancer? A Brief Overview of the Pathophysiology of Cancer

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Breast feeding is vital for the nutrition and immune system development of the newborn. To fulfill this function, breast tissue undergoes processes of differentiation or “activation” at the histological level to begin the production of breast milk and develop the necessary… Read More Breastfeeding’s Role in Reducing Breast Cancer Risk

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 2 (ISSN: 3065-5544). People of all ages, from children to adults, have engaged in video games in one way or another. The wide range of genres offers something for every preference, from classic board games to immersive battlefield simulations. Video games have become a… Read More Impact of Video Games on the Development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Objectives This research aims to evaluate the impact of parabens and phthalates on healthy breast tissue, determine if the reduction of PCPs containing these chemicals can reverse accumulation in cancer-related changes in breast tissue, and finally analyze these molecular and phenotypic changes in breast tissue before and after reducing PCPs exposure. Overall, seeking to provide… Read More Assessing the Impact of Paraben- and Phthalate-Free Products on Breast Cancer Risk

We’re excited to announce the release of Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544)! This inaugural edition features a diverse array of articles written by passionate scientists, offering insights into important topics that shape today’s healthcare landscape. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, student, or enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this carefully curated… Read More Introducing Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). When hearing the word nuclear, what comes to mind? Usually This feels like it belongs in your personal statement and not in this section. You can talk about how taking care of your dad reinforced your desire to study medicine, etc., one… Read More Understanding Nuclear Medicine: What is it?

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with a poor prognosis, but certain patients survive longer than average, possibly due to distinct molecular and clinical characteristics. Developing treatments targeting these unique features, such as IDH mutations and MGMT methylation, may improve outcomes. Immunotherapy and advanced imaging techniques also show promise for future treatment innovation.… Read More Understanding Glioblastoma for Effective Brain Cancer Treatment Strategies

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). During our studies of the head and neck, a notable topic discussed was ankyloglossia. While we defined ankyloglossia through its clinical presentation, our discussion did not encompass its etiology, incidence/prevalence, signs and symptoms, long-term effects, or treatment options. In class, Ankyloglossia… Read More Ankyloglossia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). The Computer Tomography (CT) scan represents a widely used and valuable imaging diagnostic tool in modern medicine. It enables medical professionals to detect the presence of tumors, traumatic injuries, hemorrhages, and a range of other health abnormalities (Computed Tomography (CT), 2022).… Read More Impact of CT Scans on Cancer Risk in Patients

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Introduction During my studies in medical school regarding the Development of the Male Genital Systems, a topic of discussion were some variants on the penis development. Hypospadias (HP) were one of the clinical correlations that were discussed, with an emphasis on… Read More Hypospadias, A Look Into Molecular Mechanisms And Disruptions

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Introduction Sublingual drug delivery is a non-invasive method that offers unique benefits compared to traditional oral ingestion or parenteral routes. It involves placing a drug under the tongue, allowing it to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the… Read More Understanding Sublingual Drug Administration

Introduction The journey to becoming a physician-scientist includes numerous challenges, but completing the nearly year-long application process is among the most daunting. Applying to MD-PhD programs is a unique path that requires dedication, perseverance, and a deep passion for both medicine and research. Thus, it may be valuable to review some basic MD-PhD facts: Now… Read More 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Applying to MD-PhD Programs

The article covers circadian rhythms and their impact on productivity, emphasizing the importance of a healthy sleep-wake cycle. It discusses the influence of circadian rhythms on bodily functions, productivity, and overall well-being. The content also provides practical tips for optimizing circadian rhythms, backed by scientific research.… Read More Curious About Circadian Rhythms? Discover How They Impact Brain Performance

In a study published in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, researchers explored the intricate relationship between muscle radiodensity and outcomes in hospitalized patients with advanced cancer. This groundbreaking research sheds light on how muscle radiodensity, a measurement of muscle quality, can influence patient symptoms, healthcare utilization, and survival rates, providing valuable insights… Read More Muscle Quality: A Cancer Game-Changer

Introduction “Three… Two… One…” The room explodes into a cacophony as envelopes are torn open. I take a deep breath, steadying my nerves, and with a resolve I didn’t know I possessed, I open mine. For a moment, time stands still. I scan the letter, once, then again, ensuring I’ve read it correctly. A surge… Read More What is Match Day?

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Have you ever wondered how drugs work to combat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s? Welcome back to the second part of this exploration, where we delve deeper into the intricate mechanisms and pharmaceutical options related to Alzheimer’s Disease. Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is… Read More Science Behind Alzheimer’s Treatments: A Comprehensive Yet Simplified Exploration

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Hello! During the past week I came across a publication titled “Aging and the Left Behind: Puerto Rico and Its Unconventional Rapid Aging” (Matos-Moreno, 2022). It was a very insightful read for me and I felt it necessary to share this… Read More Looking Into the Rapid Aging of Puerto Rico’s Population

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). The menstrual cycle usually occurs over a 28-day period but can range anywhere from 21 to 35 days, although this might be different for everyone, and it consists of four phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. During these phases, the body… Read More The Menstrual Cycle and Sleep

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Private equity (PE) ownership has been a growing trend in the healthcare industry, raising questions about its implications for patient care and the healthcare system as a whole. Private equity in healthcare is a form of for-profit ownership of hospitals/medical centers/nursing… Read More Private Equity: The Increased Commercialization of Healthcare

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Health Warning: Fasting is a serious medical practice which should be approached with strong consideration to individual health conditions/nutritional requirements. Always consult a healthcare professional if you intend to begin fasting, especially for prolonged periods of time.  Introduction Fasting is the… Read More Fasting and Immune Health: What’s the Connection?

This article was published on Arbona Health Hub Volume 1 Issue 1 (ISSN: 3065-5544). Have you ever felt emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, or a diminished sense of personal accomplishment no matter how long you have been studying for your exams? You may be experiencing burnout caused by pressures that accompany medical education, including academic demands, prolonged… Read More Don’t Be Burnt Toast: A Look Into Medical Student Burnout

Introduction Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an important tool for understanding the structure and function of the brain. This non-invasive imaging technique is excellent at showing small anatomical details, allowing scientists and medical professionals to explore the anatomy of the brain’s tissues and structures. Strong magnets and radio waves are used in an MRI to produce detailed… Read More Examining the Role of MRI in Brain Anatomy

Background The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA), passed in 2008 by Congress, is considered a major victory for access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment (MH/SUD). The law requires commercial health plans to provide mental health and substance use treatment “no more restrictive” than coverage for all other physical health/medical/surgical… Read More The Hurdles With Accessible Mental Health Care

This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate changes in girls’ age at the onset of thelarche (breast gland development) over the past four decades. The findings revealed a significant decrease in the age at pubertal onset, with thelarche assessed through clinical examination, by almost 3 months per decade. Introduction A crucial stage… Read More Are Girls In The USA Reaching Puberty Earlier?

Hello! Welcome back to the AGEs series. This is the second entry for the series. If you missed the first part, I encourage you to go back and read it before going through this second post. If you remember the previous entry, you most likely know about the main character, the Advanced Glycation End Product… Read More Decoding the Role of RAGE: Unveiling the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products

Nowadays, we can observe an exponential growth in many neurodegenerative diseases. Previously, I had mentioned Multiple Sclerosis, and if you haven’t read the article yet, I highly recommend it. Another condition undergoing notable exponential growth is Alzheimer’s Disease. One argument posits that, thanks to resources and technological advancements, we can now diagnose diseases that have… Read More Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: A Breakdown of the Latest Research

Approaching one of the most commercially exploited days of our generation, Valentine’s Day, we find a dedicated team leveraging our neurochemistry’s significant role in this celebration. Beyond the commercial aspect of Valentine’s Day lies a fascinating interplay within our bodies, where reactions can be, at times, unpredictable. These responses stem from the profound emotions of… Read More The Science of Love: Decoding the Neurochemistry Behind Relationships

Golf is a popular outdoor sport enjoyed by many people worldwide that combines talent, strategy and fun. Although perceived as a “low-impact” sport, it requires a sophisticated range of physical movements, specifically during the famous and renowned “golf swing”.… Read More Swing Safely: Understanding the Most Common Golf-Related Injuries

Hello! Welcome to learning about plant-based eating! I have an interest in understanding how nutrition connects our mind and body, and what better way to dive deeper into this than reviewing the benefits of plant-based eating. I hope to enlighten you with this short review on the holistic advantages of eating plant-based, and how amazing… Read More Should You Go Plant-Based? A Look Into the Benefits of Eating Plant-Based Diets

Hello! Thank you for visiting. In my next series of posts, I will focus on summarizing a concept that I find very fascinating: advanced glycation end products (AGEs). I have dedicated my time to researching and learning more about this specific subject, and I would love the opportunity to share some of the knowledge I… Read More Sweet Science: The Link Between Sugar, AGEs, and Your Health

The vaginal microbiome, crucial for vaginal health, is influenced by factors like ethnicity, hormones, and contraceptive use. Understanding its variations could lead to personalized health regimens.… Read More The Vaginal Microbiome

Neuroscience is the study of the brain and nervous system, and it incorporates a wide range of topics, from how the brain processes information to how it controls movement and behavior. The brain and nervous system are incredibly complex and fascinating parts of the human body. within this spectrum of neurological disorders.… Read More Understanding Multiple Sclerosis: Are you at risk?

Summary: The research study explores the growing public interest in the off-label use of Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, particularly Ozempic, for cosmetic weight loss. Using Google Trends, the study reveals a significant surge in relative search volume (RSV) for “Ozempic”, “Wegovy”, and “Mounjaro” over a 5-year period, indicating a heightened curiosity and potential demand… Read More Cosmetic Use Of Ozempic On The Rise

Summary: The study aimed to assess the impact of an AI tool for analyzing free-text indications in outpatient imaging orders. The researchers recorded and analyzed advanced outpatient imaging orders in a multicenter healthcare system before and after the implementation of the AI tool. The AI tool not only improved the scoring of orders but also… Read More How Artificial Intelligence is Revolutionizing Medical Imaging

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with a five-year survival rate of only 10%. This is largely because it is often diagnosed at a late stage, when treatment options are limited. However, a recent study published in Nature Medicine offers hope for improved survival rates through the use of a deep… Read More Can AI Outperform Radiologists in Early Pancreatic Cancer Detection?

Recently I came across a study in Nature Medicine that claimed to be able to use an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to predict the risk of pancreatic cancer. In order facilitate in the development of a surveillance program for early diagnosis, Placido et al. sought to predict the risk of pancreatic cancer from the clinical… Read More AI Predicting Pancreatic Cancer Risk for Early Detection

In my previous article I talked about all the different supplemental Vitamins. This article discusses the daily consumption recommendations, possible deficiencies, and the effects of supplementation as it dives into the significance of minerals for immunological function. Since they have an impact on several processes that support immune function, minerals are essential for preserving a… Read More Which should you supplement? A look into Immune-Boosting Minerals.

Nutrients are the essential compounds found in foods that are crucial for maintaining life and promoting overall health. These include vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, each playing a unique role in supporting different physiological functions inside the human body. Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients that are required in little amounts but have significant impacts… Read More A look into Immune-Boosting Vitamins. Which should you supplement?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement. It is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. As the disease progresses, individuals may also experience non-motor symptoms such as cognitive changes, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances. The primary cause of Parkinson’s disease is the loss… Read More How Nanoplastics Might Impact Parkinson’s Development

A recent study examining how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing healthcare, especially in diagnostic imaging, investigated and compared the diagnostic accuracy of two advanced artificial intelligence models, specifically GPT-4 based ChatGPT and GPT-4V based ChatGPT. The study made use of  106 “Test Yourself” cases from January 2014 to September 2023. Every case was assessed by feeding results… Read More Examining Diagnostic Capabilities: GPT-4 vs Radiologists in Musculoskeletal Imaging