NewzIntel.com

Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Samsung Electronics Acquires Xealth, Bridging The Gap Between Wellness and Medical Care

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Xealth, a unique healthcare integration platform that brings diverse digital health tools and care programs that benefit patients and providers. Together with Samsung’s innovative leadership in wearable technology, the acquisition will help advance Samsung’s transformation into a connected care platform that bridges wellness and medical care bringing a seamless and holistic approach to preventative care to as many people as possible.
    This acquisition will further Samsung’s push to unify fragmented health information and to empower individuals to take control of their own health. Often, customer health data measured on wellness tools1, which keep track of one’s wellness journey every day, and clinical records at hospitals are managed separately, leading to missed insights and delayed care. The synergy between Samsung’s advanced wearable technology and Xealth’s digital health platform can create a link between home health monitoring and clinical decision-making through enhancements to Xealth’s platform, with the provider-patient relationship at the center of that effort.
    Samsung is committed to making digital health tools accessible for all through relentless innovation in technology and a boundless device ecosystem, and has been heavily investing in sensor technologies on wearables – essential tools to follow one’s wellbeing throughout both day and night. With Samsung’s diverse product portfolio especially around home, Samsung helps connect these various devices to bring better context and personalization around healthcare. The acquisition of Xealth will reinforce this commitment by becoming the cornerstone to advancing Samsung’s care at home vision of connecting and bridging wellness and medical care.

    Xealth, spun out of Providence health system, combines multiple digital health solutions into a single user interface and platform, giving healthcare providers a more complete picture of their patients, and enabling real-time monitoring, continuous engagement and smarter decision making. Xealth acts as an orchestration layer that gives health systems control over how they manage, filter, and use data. The company currently has a network of more than 500 U.S. hospitals, including Advocate Health and Banner Health, and more than 70 digital health solution partners, which will gain access to Samsung’s platform and enhance the connected care platform.
    “Samsung aims to improve the health of everyone through our extensive platform combining Samsung’s innovative technologies and open collaboration with industry leaders,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “We believe the acquisition of Xealth, with its accumulated expertise and extensive healthcare network, will be an anchor to accelerate Samsung’s efforts to support health systems and digital health partners through a truly connected care.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner meets with farm communities, immigrant support groups in the Inland Empire

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 7, 2025

    Perris, California — On June 18, 2025, the First Partner visited the Inland Empire to meet with California communities impacted by the Trump Administration’s federal immigration raids. 

    The First Partner visited TODEC, a local nonprofit organization that’s become a lifeline for immigrant families, offering legal support, food distribution, social services, and mental health resources for those in need. Staff and families impacted by the federal immigration raids gathered to share their stories. Later in the day, the First Partner and the TODEC team dropped food donations to farmworkers fearful of leaving their homes due to ongoing and indiscriminate ICE raids.

    “I listened to accounts from grandmothers, mothers, and children—of families afraid of leaving their homes, fathers who committed suicide because they were unable to work. This is a campaign of terror on American soil—aimed at some of the hardest working people on earth—and the farms who supply our nation’s food. In addition to being morally unconscionable, the actions of the federal administration are economically disastrous. California is the world’s fifth largest producer of agricultural products. That doesn’t happen without the hands, the hearts, and the labor of immigrant workers.”

    Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    “We’re grateful for the First Partner’s compassion and for showing up for this community. She listened and saw firsthand the suffering these families are enduring, but also saw their resilience. At a time when too many are turning away from what is happening here, she is leaning in.”

    Luz Gallegos, Executive Director, TODEC.

    For almost 40 years, TODEC has been a hub for healing, organizing, advocacy, and community transformation led by the people who live and work in rural Inland communities. TODEC has operated a 24/7crisis hotline for the past 30 years and provides connection to mental health supports, home-based deliveries of groceries, medicine, other essential needs, financial assistance for families in dire need, and more.

    In addition to supporting local residents with affirmative immigration remedies and other legal services, the organization has been a longtime supporter of commonsense immigration reforms dating back to the Reagan Administration—advocating for legal pathways that allow people to safely live, work, and continue contributing in California.

    The First Partner is an advocate for California’s farmers and agricultural communities. She helped architect California’s nation-leading Farm to School program, which now provides healthy meals to nearly half of the state’s school children by working with local organic farms. She also championed the Universal Meals program, which ensures that all Californian students have access to two free school meals each day that are delicious, nutritious, and locally-sourced. 

    The First Partner is a leading advocate for the mental health and well-being of all Californian children. Under the leadership of Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California has invested billions in the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative to ensure that mental health services are available, affordable, and accessible to youth whenever they need support, wherever they may be. Through this initiative, children and their families can access free online behavioral health services (BrightLife Kids, Soluna, Mirror), video and print resources (California Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids and California Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids), and online training to recognize and respond to trauma and stress in kids (Safe Spaces). These resources are available at no-cost in Spanish and English language.

    First Partner, Press releases

    Recent news

    Jul 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of skilled Urban Search and Rescue Team members to Texas to assist with ongoing response efforts related to severe flooding impacts. “California stands with all those who have lost loved ones,…

    Jul 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California added area the equivalent of Glacier National Park to its conserved lands and coastal waters in just the last year – marking significant progress toward its goal of 30% conservation by 2030. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Jul 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments: Thanne Berg, of Albany, has been appointed Deputy Director of Site Mitigation and Restoration Program at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Berg has been Acting…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner meets with farm communities, immigrant support groups in the Inland Empire

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 7, 2025

    Perris, California — On June 18, 2025, the First Partner visited the Inland Empire to meet with California communities impacted by the Trump Administration’s federal immigration raids. 

    The First Partner visited TODEC, a local nonprofit organization that’s become a lifeline for immigrant families, offering legal support, food distribution, social services, and mental health resources for those in need. Staff and families impacted by the federal immigration raids gathered to share their stories. Later in the day, the First Partner and the TODEC team dropped food donations to farmworkers fearful of leaving their homes due to ongoing and indiscriminate ICE raids.

    “I listened to accounts from grandmothers, mothers, and children—of families afraid of leaving their homes, fathers who committed suicide because they were unable to work. This is a campaign of terror on American soil—aimed at some of the hardest working people on earth—and the farms who supply our nation’s food. In addition to being morally unconscionable, the actions of the federal administration are economically disastrous. California is the world’s fifth largest producer of agricultural products. That doesn’t happen without the hands, the hearts, and the labor of immigrant workers.”

    Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    “We’re grateful for the First Partner’s compassion and for showing up for this community. She listened and saw firsthand the suffering these families are enduring, but also saw their resilience. At a time when too many are turning away from what is happening here, she is leaning in.”

    Luz Gallegos, Executive Director, TODEC.

    For almost 40 years, TODEC has been a hub for healing, organizing, advocacy, and community transformation led by the people who live and work in rural Inland communities. TODEC has operated a 24/7crisis hotline for the past 30 years and provides connection to mental health supports, home-based deliveries of groceries, medicine, other essential needs, financial assistance for families in dire need, and more.

    In addition to supporting local residents with affirmative immigration remedies and other legal services, the organization has been a longtime supporter of commonsense immigration reforms dating back to the Reagan Administration—advocating for legal pathways that allow people to safely live, work, and continue contributing in California.

    The First Partner is an advocate for California’s farmers and agricultural communities. She helped architect California’s nation-leading Farm to School program, which now provides healthy meals to nearly half of the state’s school children by working with local organic farms. She also championed the Universal Meals program, which ensures that all Californian students have access to two free school meals each day that are delicious, nutritious, and locally-sourced. 

    The First Partner is a leading advocate for the mental health and well-being of all Californian children. Under the leadership of Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California has invested billions in the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative to ensure that mental health services are available, affordable, and accessible to youth whenever they need support, wherever they may be. Through this initiative, children and their families can access free online behavioral health services (BrightLife Kids, Soluna, Mirror), video and print resources (California Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids and California Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids), and online training to recognize and respond to trauma and stress in kids (Safe Spaces). These resources are available at no-cost in Spanish and English language.

    First Partner, Press releases

    Recent news

    Jul 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the deployment of skilled Urban Search and Rescue Team members to Texas to assist with ongoing response efforts related to severe flooding impacts. “California stands with all those who have lost loved ones,…

    Jul 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California added area the equivalent of Glacier National Park to its conserved lands and coastal waters in just the last year – marking significant progress toward its goal of 30% conservation by 2030. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom…

    Jul 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments: Thanne Berg, of Albany, has been appointed Deputy Director of Site Mitigation and Restoration Program at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Berg has been Acting…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • PM Modi gets warm welcome from Indian diaspora as he arrives in Brasília for state visit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday received a warm welcome from members of the Indian diaspora as he arrived in the Brazilian capital for a State Visit. Touched by the gesture, PM Modi described it as a “memorable welcome” and praised the diaspora for staying connected with their roots.

    “Landed in Brasília a short while ago. The Indian community accorded a memorable welcome, once again highlighting how passionate our diaspora is and how connected they remain with their roots,” PM Modi wrote on X.

    PM Modi arrived in Brasília to the beats of a traditional Brazilian Samba Reggae performance after wrapping up a “very productive” visit to Rio de Janeiro for the 17th BRICS Summit. The Indian Prime Minister, who is in the capital for a State Visit, was received at the airport by Brazil’s Defence Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho.

    During his stay in Brasília, PM Modi will meet President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to discuss various issues related to India-Brazil relations.

    PM Modi also shared on X, “At Brasília airport, the Batala Mundo band played some wonderful compositions. Theirs is a global effort to promote Afro-Brazilian percussion, in particular the Samba Reggae from Salvador da Bahia, Brazil.”

    Earlier, the Prime Minister described his Rio de Janeiro visit as “very productive”.

    “Now on the way to Brasília for the State Visit. Will hold detailed talks with President Lula on different aspects of India-Brazil ties. The Rio leg of my Brazil visit was very productive. We had extensive deliberations at the BRICS Summit. I compliment President Lula and the Brazilian Government for the work they’ve done through their BRICS Presidency in making this platform even more effective. My bilateral meetings with world leaders will also boost India’s friendship with various nations,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

    Earlier on Monday, PM Modi praised BRICS for prioritising key global issues such as the environment and health security. He underlined these subjects as crucial for humanity’s future, adding that for India, climate justice is not merely a choice but a moral obligation.

    Speaking at the BRICS session on Environment, COP-30, and Global Health, PM Modi said climate change and environmental protection have always been top priorities for India. “For us, it is not just about energy, it is about maintaining a balance between life and nature,” the Prime Minister said.

    “I am glad that under the chairmanship of Brazil, BRICS has given high priority to important issues like environment and health security. These subjects are not only interconnected but are also extremely important for the bright future of humanity.

    “This year, COP-30 is being held in Brazil, making discussions on the environment in BRICS both relevant and timely. Climate change and environmental safety have always been top priorities for India. For us, it’s not just about energy, it’s about maintaining a balance between life and nature. While some see it as just numbers, in India, it’s part of our daily life and traditions. In our culture, the Earth is respected as a mother. That’s why, when Mother Earth needs us, we always respond. We are transforming our mindset, our behaviour, and our lifestyle,” he said.

    He added, “Guided by the spirit of ‘People, Planet, and Progress’, India has launched several key initiatives — such as Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in the Name of Mother), the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Green Hydrogen Mission, the Global Biofuels Alliance, and the Big Cats Alliance.

    “During India’s G20 Presidency, we placed strong emphasis on sustainable development and bridging the gap between the Global North and South. With this objective, we achieved consensus among all countries on the Green Development Pact. To encourage environment-friendly actions, we also launched the Green Credits Initiative.”

    —IANS

     

  • PM Modi arrives in Brasília for state visit, to hold talks with President Lula

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Brazilian capital Brasília on Monday, marking the second leg of his visit to Brazil after concluding a “very productive” trip to Rio de Janeiro for the 17th BRICS Summit.

    Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was received at the airport by Brazil’s Defence Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho.

    During his State Visit, the Indian Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

    Briefing reporters on Sunday, India’s Ambassador to Brazil, Dinesh Bhatia, said that both sides are expected to sign four agreements or memorandums of understanding (MoUs). These will cover cooperation in renewable energy, counterterrorism, agricultural research between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Brazil’s Embrapa, and the exchange and mutual protection of confidential information.

    A relationship rooted in shared values

    India and Brazil share a multifaceted relationship which was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2006. The two countries also work closely in global and plurilateral forums such as BRICS, IBSA, G20, G-4, the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance.

    The bilateral relationship is underpinned by a shared vision for a just global order, democratic values and the commitment to foster economic growth with social inclusion.

    Historically, the cultural exchanges between Brazil and India date back to the Portuguese colonial era. Indian cattle breeds like Gir and Kankrej, exported to Brazil in the early 20th century, have significantly contributed to Brazil’s dairy industry. The popularity of Brazilian television series such as Caminho das Indias has also enhanced India’s image in Brazilian popular culture.

    Diplomatic relations were formally established in 1948, with embassies opened in the same year. India’s embassy shifted from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia in 1971.

    Strengthening economic ties

    The trade relationship between India and Brazil remains robust. In 2024-25, bilateral trade reached USD 12.2 billion, with Indian exports accounting for USD 6.77 billion and imports from Brazil at USD 5.43 billion. Major Indian exports include petroleum products, agro-chemicals, pharmaceuticals and engineering goods. Brazilian exports to India primarily comprise crude oil, soya oil, gold, raw sugar and cotton.

    Indian investments in Brazil are estimated at over USD 6 billion, while Brazilian investments in India are around USD 1 billion. Prominent Indian firms operating in Brazil include Tata Motors, Mahindra Tractors, Infosys, Wipro and Sun Pharma, among others. Conversely, Brazilian companies such as Vale, Stefanini and WEG have a presence in India.

    High-level visits and parliamentary exchanges

    In recent years, high-level exchanges have imparted momentum to the relationship. President Jair Bolsonaro paid a state visit to India in January 2020 and was the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day Parade. During the visit, an Action Plan was adopted to strengthen the Strategic Partnership, leading to the signing of 15 agreements across diverse sectors.

    Parliamentary engagement has also expanded. Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Om Birla, led a delegation to attend the BRICS Parliamentary Forum in Brasilia in June 2025 and held meetings with Brazilian parliamentary leaders. Earlier, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh, participated in the G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit in November 2024.

    Recently, a multi-party parliamentary delegation led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor visited Brasilia to discuss cross-border terrorism following the Pahalgam attack. They met Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and senior Brazilian officials.

    Expanding frontiers: space, energy and health

    India and Brazil collaborate in space technology through agreements for peaceful use of outer space and satellite tracking. India notably launched Brazil’s Amazonia-1 satellite in 2021.

    In oil and gas, Brazil is India’s largest upstream investment destination in the Americas, with Indian PSUs investing over USD 3.5 billion. The nations are also co-founders of the Global Biofuel Alliance, launched at the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi.

    Health and traditional medicine are other areas of cooperation. Ayurveda and Yoga are recognised under Brazil’s national policy of alternative medicine, and the two countries have agreed to collaborate on health surveillance, technology transfer and research.

     

  • MIL-Evening Report: Are chemicals to blame for cancer in young people? Here’s what the evidence says

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Diepstraten, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)

    Cancer is traditionally known as a disease affecting mostly older people.

    But some worrying trends show cancer rates in younger people aged under 50 are on the rise.

    This week’s ABC 4 Corners suggest chemicals, including plastics, may play a role in rising rates of these early-onset cancers.

    So what does the evidence say is causing this increase? And what can we do about it?

    Why does cancer mostly affect older people?

    Each cell in your body contains a copy of your DNA – the instructions needed to keep that cell functioning properly.

    However, DNA can be damaged or “mutated” in such a way that a cell will no longer do the job it’s supposed to.

    Some mutations will allow a cell to make too many copies of itself and grow out of control. Others can protect it from dying. And others still allow it to move around and travel to other organs where it doesn’t belong.

    Accumulating too many of these DNA mutations can lead to cancer.

    Every time a new cell is made in our body, a copy of our DNA is made too. Sometimes, due to random chance, mistakes occur which introduce genetic mutations.

    Think of it like making a photocopy of a photocopy, and so on. Each copy will be slightly different than the original.

    Most DNA mutations are harmless.

    But your cells are making billions of new copies of themselves each day. So the older you get, the more DNA copies you will have made during your lifetime, and the more likely you are to have dangerous mistakes in those copies.

    As we get older, our bodies aren’t as good at recognising and removing cells with dangerous mutations. That’s why cancer is much more common in older people.

    What’s causing cancer in younger people?

    One of the reasons increased cancer rates in younger people is so worrying is it means there are likely environmental factors involved we don’t yet know about.

    Environmental factors are anything outside of our bodies: things such as chemicals, viruses and bacteria, the amount we exercise, and the foods we eat.

    Many of these environmental factors can increase the likelihood of DNA copying mistakes, or even directly damage our DNA, increasing our risk of cancer.

    One well-known example is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can lead to skin cancer. Another is smoking, which can lead to lung cancer.

    Fortunately, public awareness campaigns about the dangers of sun exposure, and reduced rates of people smoking cigarettes, have led to falling numbers of skin and lung cancer cases in Australians under 50 over the past 30 years.

    But other types of cancer – including cancers of the liver, pancreas, prostate, breast and kidney – are increasing in young people in Australia. The trend is global, particularly among richer, western countries.

    What role do chemicals play?

    Researchers are working to understand the causes of these increases. Currently, chemicals are in the spotlight as an environmental factor of particular interest.

    We’re exposed to more chemicals in the modern day than many of our ancestors were – things such as air pollution, food additives, plastics and many more.

    Alcohol and cigarette smoke aside, most chemicals that are definitively linked to cancer are not ones most people would regularly encounter, as they’re restricted to spaces such as industry.

    One of the main chemicals of concern are plastics, which are ubiquitous: almost everyone encounters them, every day.

    Experts agree plastics represent an overall massive general risk to human health and the environment.

    But there are so many thousands and thousands of plastics, it’s hard to point fingers at specific ones causing specific problems, including cancers.

    Studies using animals can give strong evidence one way or another. But in humans who are exposed to thousands of different environmental factors every day, it’s difficult to definitively state “risk factor X contributes to cancer Y”.

    So, it’s not possible to point to a single “smoking gun” in the case of the increasing early-onset cancer rates.

    Let’s use colorectal cancer (also called bowel cancer) as an example to illustrate the issue.

    Why are young people getting bowel cancer?

    In older people, bowel cancer rates are actually falling. This is thought to be in part due to improved testing and screening helping to catch and destroy dangerous cells before they actually become cancer.

    But early-onset bowel cancer rates are rising.

    Some people speculate this may be due to increased exposure to plastics, as the digestive system is exposed to these through the food we eat. This includes things such as nano- or micro-plastics, or chemicals leaching out of the plastics into foods, such as PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances).

    But there are other potential culprits, such as diet and lifestyle, with obesity and alcohol intake correlating with increased cancer rates.

    Bacteria may also play a role: the types of bacteria found in your microbiome are thought to contribute to bowel cancer risk. Even exposure to certain bacterial toxins has been linked to bowel cancer risk.

    How can you reduce your risk of cancer?

    While there is no definitive evidence linking chemicals to increased cancer risk in young people, this is an area of intense ongoing research. Reducing your use of and exposure to plastics and chemicals where possible is still probably a healthy thing to do.

    On top of that, you can reduce your overall cancer risk through regular exercise and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.

    If you have any concerns, and particularly if you have a family history of cancer, consult your doctor.

    Sarah Diepstraten receives funding from Cure Cancer Australia and My Room Children’s Cancer Charity.

    John (Eddie) La Marca receives funding from Cancer Council Victoria. He is affiliated with the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research.

    – ref. Are chemicals to blame for cancer in young people? Here’s what the evidence says – https://theconversation.com/are-chemicals-to-blame-for-cancer-in-young-people-heres-what-the-evidence-says-260585

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Are chemicals to blame for cancer in young people? Here’s what the evidence says

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Diepstraten, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)

    Cancer is traditionally known as a disease affecting mostly older people.

    But some worrying trends show cancer rates in younger people aged under 50 are on the rise.

    This week’s ABC 4 Corners suggest chemicals, including plastics, may play a role in rising rates of these early-onset cancers.

    So what does the evidence say is causing this increase? And what can we do about it?

    Why does cancer mostly affect older people?

    Each cell in your body contains a copy of your DNA – the instructions needed to keep that cell functioning properly.

    However, DNA can be damaged or “mutated” in such a way that a cell will no longer do the job it’s supposed to.

    Some mutations will allow a cell to make too many copies of itself and grow out of control. Others can protect it from dying. And others still allow it to move around and travel to other organs where it doesn’t belong.

    Accumulating too many of these DNA mutations can lead to cancer.

    Every time a new cell is made in our body, a copy of our DNA is made too. Sometimes, due to random chance, mistakes occur which introduce genetic mutations.

    Think of it like making a photocopy of a photocopy, and so on. Each copy will be slightly different than the original.

    Most DNA mutations are harmless.

    But your cells are making billions of new copies of themselves each day. So the older you get, the more DNA copies you will have made during your lifetime, and the more likely you are to have dangerous mistakes in those copies.

    As we get older, our bodies aren’t as good at recognising and removing cells with dangerous mutations. That’s why cancer is much more common in older people.

    What’s causing cancer in younger people?

    One of the reasons increased cancer rates in younger people is so worrying is it means there are likely environmental factors involved we don’t yet know about.

    Environmental factors are anything outside of our bodies: things such as chemicals, viruses and bacteria, the amount we exercise, and the foods we eat.

    Many of these environmental factors can increase the likelihood of DNA copying mistakes, or even directly damage our DNA, increasing our risk of cancer.

    One well-known example is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, which can lead to skin cancer. Another is smoking, which can lead to lung cancer.

    Fortunately, public awareness campaigns about the dangers of sun exposure, and reduced rates of people smoking cigarettes, have led to falling numbers of skin and lung cancer cases in Australians under 50 over the past 30 years.

    But other types of cancer – including cancers of the liver, pancreas, prostate, breast and kidney – are increasing in young people in Australia. The trend is global, particularly among richer, western countries.

    What role do chemicals play?

    Researchers are working to understand the causes of these increases. Currently, chemicals are in the spotlight as an environmental factor of particular interest.

    We’re exposed to more chemicals in the modern day than many of our ancestors were – things such as air pollution, food additives, plastics and many more.

    Alcohol and cigarette smoke aside, most chemicals that are definitively linked to cancer are not ones most people would regularly encounter, as they’re restricted to spaces such as industry.

    One of the main chemicals of concern are plastics, which are ubiquitous: almost everyone encounters them, every day.

    Experts agree plastics represent an overall massive general risk to human health and the environment.

    But there are so many thousands and thousands of plastics, it’s hard to point fingers at specific ones causing specific problems, including cancers.

    Studies using animals can give strong evidence one way or another. But in humans who are exposed to thousands of different environmental factors every day, it’s difficult to definitively state “risk factor X contributes to cancer Y”.

    So, it’s not possible to point to a single “smoking gun” in the case of the increasing early-onset cancer rates.

    Let’s use colorectal cancer (also called bowel cancer) as an example to illustrate the issue.

    Why are young people getting bowel cancer?

    In older people, bowel cancer rates are actually falling. This is thought to be in part due to improved testing and screening helping to catch and destroy dangerous cells before they actually become cancer.

    But early-onset bowel cancer rates are rising.

    Some people speculate this may be due to increased exposure to plastics, as the digestive system is exposed to these through the food we eat. This includes things such as nano- or micro-plastics, or chemicals leaching out of the plastics into foods, such as PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances).

    But there are other potential culprits, such as diet and lifestyle, with obesity and alcohol intake correlating with increased cancer rates.

    Bacteria may also play a role: the types of bacteria found in your microbiome are thought to contribute to bowel cancer risk. Even exposure to certain bacterial toxins has been linked to bowel cancer risk.

    How can you reduce your risk of cancer?

    While there is no definitive evidence linking chemicals to increased cancer risk in young people, this is an area of intense ongoing research. Reducing your use of and exposure to plastics and chemicals where possible is still probably a healthy thing to do.

    On top of that, you can reduce your overall cancer risk through regular exercise and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.

    If you have any concerns, and particularly if you have a family history of cancer, consult your doctor.

    Sarah Diepstraten receives funding from Cure Cancer Australia and My Room Children’s Cancer Charity.

    John (Eddie) La Marca receives funding from Cancer Council Victoria. He is affiliated with the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research.

    – ref. Are chemicals to blame for cancer in young people? Here’s what the evidence says – https://theconversation.com/are-chemicals-to-blame-for-cancer-in-young-people-heres-what-the-evidence-says-260585

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Fire at Cairo data hub injures 14, causes internet, telecom outages

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Firefighters battle a fire at a telecommunication building in Cairo, Egypt, on July 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A fire broke out on Monday inside a telecommunication building in the Egyptian capital Cairo, injuring 14 people, causing a partial disruption of telecommunication and internet services in the Greater Cairo metropolitan area.

    The injured were immediately transferred to a nearby hospital for treatment, the Egyptian Health Ministry said in a statement.

    The official MENA news agency reported that firefighters have successfully contained the fire in the Ramses Central Exchange building, adding that cooling operations are currently underway to ensure the fire will not reignite.

    A security source told MENA that preliminary investigations suggest the fire was likely caused by an electrical short circuit, noting that criminal lab experts will collect evidence from the scene to determine the exact cause.

    Meanwhile, Egypt’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority said that work is underway to assess the extent of the damage and gradually restore service. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 8, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 8, 2025.

    Being kind to people – the new challenge for the public service
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Smith-Merry, Director, Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney When Labor was re-elected in May, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used his acceptance speech to describe the type of country he wanted to lead. He spoke of how the Australian people had voted for fairness,

    It’s harder than you think to become a top sports official in football, soccer and the rugby codes
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kath O’Brien, Senior Lecturer – Faculty of Health (School Exercise & Nutrition Sciences), Queensland University of Technology Brendon Thorne/Getty Images Sport officials, regardless of which code they supervise, are appointed to be impartial figures. They have to quickly interpret infractions, adjudicate rules and communicate commands, all while

    First it was ‘protein goals’, now TikTok is on about ‘fibre goals’. How can you meet yours?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Saman Khalesi, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course Nutrition, HealthWise Research Group Lead, Appleton Institute,, CQUniversity Australia Westend61/Getty Images “Protein goals” have long been a thing on TikTok and Instagram. But now social media users are also talking about “fibre goals”. This reflects a positive broader shift

    Bougainville election process begins as writs issued for September poll
    RNZ Pacific The Bougainville election process begins today with the issuance of the writs yesterday. Nominations open Tuesday, July 8, and close on Thursday, July 10. Voting is scheduled for one week starting on September 2, allowing seven weeks of campaigning. Candidates will be vying for a total of 46 seats, with the autonomous Parliament

    Australia is set to get more AI data centres. Local communities need to be more involved
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Cumbo, Transdisciplinary social researcher and lecturer, University of Technology Sydney A Google data centre in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. Richard Newstead/Getty Data centres are the engines of the internet. These large, high-security facilities host racks of servers that store and process our digital data, 24 hours a

    How can you keep kids off screens during the winter holidays?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Minson, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education, Australian Catholic University Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Children’s Games, 1560. ©KHM-Museumsverband, CC BY-NC The winter school holidays can be a tricky time for families. Parents are often juggling work and chilly conditions make it easy for kids to end

    Quitting the quit-aid: people trying to stop vaping nicotine need more support – here are some strategies to help
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joya Kemper, Associate Professor in Marketing, University of Canterbury Getty Images New Zealand is among a number of countries that encourage vaping (the use of e-cigarettes) as a tool to help people stop smoking tobacco. But what happens when people want to quit vaping? Nicotine vapes can

    If you have a pet as a kid, does this lower your risk of asthma and eczema?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samantha Chan, Immunology and Allergy Lead, Snow Centre for Immune Health, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Catherine Delahaye/Getty Images As the number of people with allergies grows worldwide, scientists are trying to work out precisely how and why these conditions – such as

    A top court has urged nations to clamp down on fossil fuel production. When will Australia finally start listening?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney GREG WOOD/AFP via Getty Images As Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen tours the Pacific this week to spruik his government’s commitment to climate action, fossil fuel exporters such as Australia are under unprecedented

    Kumanjayi Walker inquest: racism and violence, but findings too little and too late
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thalia Anthony, Professor of Law, University of Technology Sydney First Nations people please be advised this article speaks of racially discriminating moments in history, including the distress and death of First Nations people. The inquest findings into the death of 19-year-old Kumanjayi Walker are among the most

    Cape Town’s sewage treatment isn’t coping: scientists are worried about what the city is telling the public
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lesley Green, Professor of Earth Politics and Director: Environmental Humanities South, University of Cape Town Urban water bodies – rivers, lakes and oceans – are in trouble globally. Large sewage volumes damage the open environment, and new chemicals and pharmaceutical compounds don’t break down on their own.

    View from The Hill: Albanese’s Curtin speech becomes latest political football in debate over US relationship
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Anthony Albanese seems to find himself on eggshells whenever the Australian-American relationship comes up. After the G7 debacle, he’s persistently pursued – to his obvious irritation – by journalists asking when he’ll have his first face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump.

    A Shakespearean, small-town murder: why Australia became so obsessed with the Erin Patterson mushroom case
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Xanthe Mallett, Criminologist, CQUniversity Australia The “mushroom murder trial”, as it has popularly become known, has gripped Australia over the past 11 weeks. More than that, it’s prompted worldwide headlines, multiple daily podcasts, and even YouTube videos of self-proclaimed “body language experts” assessing defendant Erin Patterson’s every

    Peter Russell-Clarke’s greatest gift was how he made you feel like one of the family
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wendy Hunt, Senior Lecturer, Academic Chair, Food Science and Nutrition, Murdoch University Impressions/Getty Images Throughout my teenage years, our lounge room sang “Come and get it, come and get it” and all in earshot would carol back, “with Peter. Russell. Clarke!” The chef, restaurateur, cookbook author and

    Sleep divorce: could sleeping separately from your partner lead to a better night’s rest?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alix Mellor, Research Fellow, Psychology, Monash University Cemile Bingol/Getty Images Hundreds of years ago, it was common for married couples among the European upper classes to have separate bedrooms. Sleeping separately was a symbol of luxury and status historically reserved for royalty and the very wealthy. Nowadays,

    A test of political courage: Yoorrook’s final reports demand action, not amnesia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeremie M Bracka, Law Lecturer and Transitional Justice Academic, RMIT University Australia’s colonial era may be formally over but its legacies of inequality, land dispossession and systemic racism continue to shape daily life for First Peoples. Last week, the Victorian Yoorrook Justice Commission delivered its two final

    Erin Patterson has been found guilty in the mushroom murder trial. Legal experts explain why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rick Sarre, Emeritus Professor in Law and Criminal Justice, University of South Australia After seven weeks of evidence, six days of summing up, and six and a half days of jury deliberation in the Victorian Supreme Court sitting in Morwell, Victoria, the verdict is finally in. Erin

    In Texas, parents search flood debris for missing kids. Are Australians ready for our own sudden floods?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erica Kuligowski, Vice-Chancellor’s Senior Research Fellow, School of Engineering, RMIT University Harrowing stories are emerging in the wake of catastrophic and sudden flooding over the fourth of July weekend in Texas – where many people were camping, and children were at riverside summer camp. More than 80

    What is rejection sensitive dysphoria in ADHD? And how can you manage it?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Barclay-Timmis, Adjunct Lecturer in Psychology, University of Southern Queensland Vitalii Khodzinskyi/Unsplash Imagine your friend hasn’t replied to a message in a few hours. Most people might think, “they are probably just busy”. But someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might spiral into a flood of thoughts

    NZDF not considering recruiting personnel from Pacific nations
    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is not considering recruiting personnel from across the Pacific as talk continues of Australia doing so for its Defence Force (ADF). In response to a question from The Australian at the National Press Club in Canberra about Australia’s plans to potentially recruit from

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 8, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 8, 2025.

    Being kind to people – the new challenge for the public service
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jennifer Smith-Merry, Director, Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney When Labor was re-elected in May, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used his acceptance speech to describe the type of country he wanted to lead. He spoke of how the Australian people had voted for fairness,

    It’s harder than you think to become a top sports official in football, soccer and the rugby codes
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kath O’Brien, Senior Lecturer – Faculty of Health (School Exercise & Nutrition Sciences), Queensland University of Technology Brendon Thorne/Getty Images Sport officials, regardless of which code they supervise, are appointed to be impartial figures. They have to quickly interpret infractions, adjudicate rules and communicate commands, all while

    First it was ‘protein goals’, now TikTok is on about ‘fibre goals’. How can you meet yours?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Saman Khalesi, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course Nutrition, HealthWise Research Group Lead, Appleton Institute,, CQUniversity Australia Westend61/Getty Images “Protein goals” have long been a thing on TikTok and Instagram. But now social media users are also talking about “fibre goals”. This reflects a positive broader shift

    Bougainville election process begins as writs issued for September poll
    RNZ Pacific The Bougainville election process begins today with the issuance of the writs yesterday. Nominations open Tuesday, July 8, and close on Thursday, July 10. Voting is scheduled for one week starting on September 2, allowing seven weeks of campaigning. Candidates will be vying for a total of 46 seats, with the autonomous Parliament

    Australia is set to get more AI data centres. Local communities need to be more involved
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bronwyn Cumbo, Transdisciplinary social researcher and lecturer, University of Technology Sydney A Google data centre in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. Richard Newstead/Getty Data centres are the engines of the internet. These large, high-security facilities host racks of servers that store and process our digital data, 24 hours a

    How can you keep kids off screens during the winter holidays?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Minson, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education, Australian Catholic University Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Children’s Games, 1560. ©KHM-Museumsverband, CC BY-NC The winter school holidays can be a tricky time for families. Parents are often juggling work and chilly conditions make it easy for kids to end

    Quitting the quit-aid: people trying to stop vaping nicotine need more support – here are some strategies to help
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joya Kemper, Associate Professor in Marketing, University of Canterbury Getty Images New Zealand is among a number of countries that encourage vaping (the use of e-cigarettes) as a tool to help people stop smoking tobacco. But what happens when people want to quit vaping? Nicotine vapes can

    If you have a pet as a kid, does this lower your risk of asthma and eczema?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samantha Chan, Immunology and Allergy Lead, Snow Centre for Immune Health, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Catherine Delahaye/Getty Images As the number of people with allergies grows worldwide, scientists are trying to work out precisely how and why these conditions – such as

    A top court has urged nations to clamp down on fossil fuel production. When will Australia finally start listening?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney GREG WOOD/AFP via Getty Images As Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen tours the Pacific this week to spruik his government’s commitment to climate action, fossil fuel exporters such as Australia are under unprecedented

    Kumanjayi Walker inquest: racism and violence, but findings too little and too late
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Thalia Anthony, Professor of Law, University of Technology Sydney First Nations people please be advised this article speaks of racially discriminating moments in history, including the distress and death of First Nations people. The inquest findings into the death of 19-year-old Kumanjayi Walker are among the most

    Cape Town’s sewage treatment isn’t coping: scientists are worried about what the city is telling the public
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lesley Green, Professor of Earth Politics and Director: Environmental Humanities South, University of Cape Town Urban water bodies – rivers, lakes and oceans – are in trouble globally. Large sewage volumes damage the open environment, and new chemicals and pharmaceutical compounds don’t break down on their own.

    View from The Hill: Albanese’s Curtin speech becomes latest political football in debate over US relationship
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Anthony Albanese seems to find himself on eggshells whenever the Australian-American relationship comes up. After the G7 debacle, he’s persistently pursued – to his obvious irritation – by journalists asking when he’ll have his first face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump.

    A Shakespearean, small-town murder: why Australia became so obsessed with the Erin Patterson mushroom case
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Xanthe Mallett, Criminologist, CQUniversity Australia The “mushroom murder trial”, as it has popularly become known, has gripped Australia over the past 11 weeks. More than that, it’s prompted worldwide headlines, multiple daily podcasts, and even YouTube videos of self-proclaimed “body language experts” assessing defendant Erin Patterson’s every

    Peter Russell-Clarke’s greatest gift was how he made you feel like one of the family
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wendy Hunt, Senior Lecturer, Academic Chair, Food Science and Nutrition, Murdoch University Impressions/Getty Images Throughout my teenage years, our lounge room sang “Come and get it, come and get it” and all in earshot would carol back, “with Peter. Russell. Clarke!” The chef, restaurateur, cookbook author and

    Sleep divorce: could sleeping separately from your partner lead to a better night’s rest?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alix Mellor, Research Fellow, Psychology, Monash University Cemile Bingol/Getty Images Hundreds of years ago, it was common for married couples among the European upper classes to have separate bedrooms. Sleeping separately was a symbol of luxury and status historically reserved for royalty and the very wealthy. Nowadays,

    A test of political courage: Yoorrook’s final reports demand action, not amnesia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeremie M Bracka, Law Lecturer and Transitional Justice Academic, RMIT University Australia’s colonial era may be formally over but its legacies of inequality, land dispossession and systemic racism continue to shape daily life for First Peoples. Last week, the Victorian Yoorrook Justice Commission delivered its two final

    Erin Patterson has been found guilty in the mushroom murder trial. Legal experts explain why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rick Sarre, Emeritus Professor in Law and Criminal Justice, University of South Australia After seven weeks of evidence, six days of summing up, and six and a half days of jury deliberation in the Victorian Supreme Court sitting in Morwell, Victoria, the verdict is finally in. Erin

    In Texas, parents search flood debris for missing kids. Are Australians ready for our own sudden floods?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erica Kuligowski, Vice-Chancellor’s Senior Research Fellow, School of Engineering, RMIT University Harrowing stories are emerging in the wake of catastrophic and sudden flooding over the fourth of July weekend in Texas – where many people were camping, and children were at riverside summer camp. More than 80

    What is rejection sensitive dysphoria in ADHD? And how can you manage it?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Barclay-Timmis, Adjunct Lecturer in Psychology, University of Southern Queensland Vitalii Khodzinskyi/Unsplash Imagine your friend hasn’t replied to a message in a few hours. Most people might think, “they are probably just busy”. But someone with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might spiral into a flood of thoughts

    NZDF not considering recruiting personnel from Pacific nations
    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is not considering recruiting personnel from across the Pacific as talk continues of Australia doing so for its Defence Force (ADF). In response to a question from The Australian at the National Press Club in Canberra about Australia’s plans to potentially recruit from

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: It’s harder than you think to become a top sports official in football, soccer and the rugby codes

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kath O’Brien, Senior Lecturer – Faculty of Health (School Exercise & Nutrition Sciences), Queensland University of Technology

    Brendon Thorne/Getty Images

    Sport officials, regardless of which code they supervise, are appointed to be impartial figures.

    They have to quickly interpret infractions, adjudicate rules and communicate commands, all while maintaining the highest levels of objectivity and sense – not to mention the fitness required.

    So, what does it take to become a sport official at the elite level, such as NRL referees or AFL umpires?

    And why do so many sports fans think these officials are at fault when their team keeps getting penalised?



    Read more:
    1 in 5 community footy umpires have been assaulted, while others cop death threats: new research

    It’s harder than you think

    Recently, there were calls for Ashley Klein to be stripped of officiating duties for the third and final rugby league State of Origin clash after NRL commentators queried a one-sided penalty count in the Maroons’ favour during game two in Perth.

    Likewise, the AFL recently faced criticism when video evidence revealed Collingwood’s Lachie Schultz had suffered a concussion, but the umpires in charge failed to stop play immediately, as they should have.

    Every week, fans also voice their displeasure at perceived injustices, whether that be at the ground, watching on TV or venting on social media.

    However, very few people fully understand the complexity or intricacies of what it takes to perform a sport official’s role, particularly at the elite level.

    Elite officials must have detailed rule knowledge, incredible physical and mental fitness and be composed regardless of crowd pressure. They must be able to instantly move on from any mistakes made.

    They also need situational awareness and a level of calmness to effectively supervise two groups of competitors fiercely battling against each other in these highly charged environments.

    Figuratively speaking, this can be like emergency department (ED) doctors or air traffic controllers, who are required to manage multiple events and competing task demands in a calm and consistent manner.

    Even though elite officials don’t work continuously for long hours like ED doctors or pilots – the total playing time of most of our winter sporting codes is generally between 90-120 minutes – the level of concentration, composure and mental toughness required is immense.

    Making good decisions when both players and the ball are constantly shifting position also requires exceptional game understanding and an ability to convey decisions that are appropriate to the game context.

    In other words, elite referees operate in situations in which time pressure, stress and high risk decision-making are always present.

    So who would want to perform a role where coaches, fans and some sections of the media continually question your knowledge, integrity and skills?

    Professional or part-time?

    Currently, of Australia’s major winter codes, only the NRL has a full quota of referees who are full time, paid professionals.

    Soccer’s A-League has a small group of full-time officials and an impressive number of top officials are part of FIFA’s panel of international referees. Yet, most A-League referees are part-time operators.

    Similarly, Rugby Australia has a small team of full-time professional referees who are appointed to Super League games and international matches not involving Australia, but most are part-timers.

    In the AFL, most umpires work part-time, with pressure mounting on the league to transition its umpires into full-time positions as ongoing criticisms over controversial decisions continue to grow.

    What elite officials get paid can be shrouded in secrecy but AFL field umpires reportedly earn A$120–130,000 each year while the best NRL referees earn more than $300,000 each season.

    Current pathways into the top level for most sporting codes require extensive apprenticeships in lower grades.

    To reach those top pay levels, extensive on-field experience in lower grades is required. Those who stand out are selected in high-performance squads where specialist coaching is provided.

    An often thankless task

    So, do you think you have what it takes to be an elite sports official?

    Could you maintain an optimal level of physical and cognitive performance while running at high speeds when you know every decision you make can be reviewed by video technology and re-watched in slow motion at one 25th of a second?

    It might be good to remember most decisions in sport are not black and white.

    Referees are human. They make mistakes. Sometimes they have to follow a policy or refereeing method they might not agree with.

    However, what we need to remember before we shout at them during a game is elite officials are trying to make games as fair, open, free flowing and entertaining as possible as they strive to impartially apply the rules of the game.

    Kath O’Brien does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. It’s harder than you think to become a top sports official in football, soccer and the rugby codes – https://theconversation.com/its-harder-than-you-think-to-become-a-top-sports-official-in-football-soccer-and-the-rugby-codes-259036

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: First it was ‘protein goals’, now TikTok is on about ‘fibre goals’. How can you meet yours?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Saman Khalesi, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course Nutrition, HealthWise Research Group Lead, Appleton Institute,, CQUniversity Australia

    Westend61/Getty Images

    “Protein goals” have long been a thing on TikTok and Instagram. But now social media users are also talking about “fibre goals”. This reflects a positive broader shift toward overall health and wellbeing rather than a narrow focus on weight loss or muscle gain.

    Foods high in fibre are among the healthiest we can eat. Not getting enough can lead to constipation, haemorrhoids and boost the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and bowel cancer.

    So what’s the expert evidence say about “fibre goals” and how to hit them?

    Different types of fibre

    Dietary fibres are indigestible parts of plant foods. Unlike other carbohydrates that break down into sugar, these complex carbs pass through our digestive tract mostly unchanged.

    There are two main types of dietary fibre:

    Soluble fibres dissolve in water to form gel-like substances. You can find these in fruits such as apples and berries, vegetables such as sweet potatoes and carrots, as well a legumes and oats.

    Soluble fibres can slow down digestion and help us feel fuller for longer. They support heart health, lower blood cholesterol and help regulate blood sugar levels.

    Insoluble fibres don’t dissolve in water, but add bulk to food. You can get this type of fibre from wheat bran, fruits and vegetable skins, nuts and seeds, beans and whole grain foods.

    Insoluble fibres add bulk to the stool and help regulate bowel movements and reduce constipation.

    Resistant starch is also a type of complex carb that isn’t technically a fibre, but behaves like one; it resists digestion and feeds gut bacteria. These are found in legumes, cooked potato, and undercooked pasta.

    Unlike many fibre supplements (which often only offer one type of fibre) most sources of fibre we eat contain both soluble and insoluble forms. For example, oats, apples and avocado have both.

    Both soluble and insoluble fibre benefit our gut and overall health.

    Both can be fermented by good gut bacteria, although soluble dietary fibres (and resistant starches) tend to ferment more readily.

    Our gut bacteria rely on fermenting these fibres as a fuel to help digest foods, fight against pathogenic microbes such as germs and viruses, and improve physical and mental health.

    Avocados are high in fibre.
    Rouzes/Getty Images

    What should my fibre goal should be?

    Sadly, there’s no quick lab test to measure it.

    A simple indicator is how well your digestion works. If you’re rarely constipated, you’re likely getting enough fibre.

    The National Health and Medical Research Council recommends daily fibre intakes vary by age and gender.

    But in general, adult men should have about 30 grams of fibre per day. Women should have about 25 grams.

    There are many apps and websites to help you calculate your current fibre intake.

    It’s hard to have too much dietary fibre; even eating 50g per day is not considered harmful.

    How do I meet that goal without overthinking it?

    Foods rich in fibre include:

    • fruits
    • vegetables
    • nuts
    • seeds
    • legumes
    • beans
    • wholegrain or wholemeal breads and cereals.

    Aim for variety in your diet, so you don’t get bored of the same foods.

    The federal government’s Australian Dietary Guidelines suggest a daily intake of:

    • two serves of medium-sized fruits
    • five serves of vegetables (one serve is half a cup of cooked veggies or one cup of salad greens)
    • two to three serves of nuts and seeds (where one serve is about 30g or a handful) or two to three serves of legumes/beans (where one serve is a cup of cooked beans, lentils, chickpeas, split peas).

    What not to do

    Here are some important things to remember:

    1. avoid drastic changes such as cutting out entire food groups or nutrients (such as carbohydrates) unless advised by your health practitioner. Even low-fibre food groups (such as dairy or lean meats) provide important nutrients. Avoiding them can potentially cause other health problems

    2. avoid focusing on just one type of fibre (soluble or insoluble). Each has different benefits, so incorporating both is best

    3. avoid a sudden increase in fibre. It can cause abdominal pain and increased flatulence. Start by adding just one or two high-fibre foods each day and slowly increase this over a few weeks

    4. fibre needs water to work effectively, so drink plenty of fluids. Aim for at least eight to ten glasses of water per day.

    How do I hit my goal without being a weirdo about it?

    Eating well doesn’t need to be a competition.

    It’s great people are sharing ideas on social media about increasing fibre intake and setting fibre goals, but we can do it without constantly obsessing over food.

    Focus on gradual changes and incorporating fibre-rich foods naturally into your diet. Start by eating more fresh fruit and vegetables, and adding legumes and pulses (such as kidney beans and chickpeas) to meals.

    Simple switches can go a long way. For example, swap refined grain products (such as white rice or white bread) for wholemeal or wholegrain varieties. If you like breakfast cereals, choose one with at least 5g of fibre per serve (read the nutrition panel on the packet).

    Finally, listen to your body. If you experience any digestive discomfort or have certain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome that requires managing your fibre intake, consult with a health-care professional.

    Saman Khalesi is a committee member for Nutrition Society Australia Queensland Group and Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network.

    Chris Irwin is a committee member for Nutrition Society Australia Queensland Regional Group.

    Seyed Farhang Jafari does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. First it was ‘protein goals’, now TikTok is on about ‘fibre goals’. How can you meet yours? – https://theconversation.com/first-it-was-protein-goals-now-tiktok-is-on-about-fibre-goals-how-can-you-meet-yours-258694

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Harshbarger Named Vice Chair of House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) released the following statement after being selected as the new Vice Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health:

    “Thank you to Chairman Guthrie, Chairman Griffith, and my colleagues for putting their faith in me to serve as the next Vice Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health. As a licensed pharmacist, I’ve spent my career on the front lines of our healthcare system, and I understand the challenges patients and providers face every day. As Vice Chair, I will continue to advocate for solutions that strengthen our healthcare system, and I look forward to working with Chairman Griffith to advance patient-centered, fiscally responsible healthcare solutions through the committee.” — Congresswoman Harshbarger

    Background: Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, a licensed pharmacist, has been a leading voice in Congress on healthcare reform and patient access. Since taking office, she has fought to expose the abusive practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and championed bipartisan efforts to bring transparency and accountability to the prescription drug supply chain. Harshbarger has introduced and supported legislation to modernize drug pricing, expand access to care in rural communities, and ensure pharmacists and providers have a stronger voice in patient care decisions. Her seat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee has positioned her as a national advocate for restoring integrity to the healthcare system and putting patients first. Additionally, Harshbarger is a member of the Republican Doctors Caucus and serves as Co-Chair of the Congressional Bipartisan Rural Health Caucus.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: People in poorer areas face lower stroke survival odds People who have a stroke are more likely to die within a year if they live in more deprived areas according to new research from the University of Aberdeen.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    People who have a stroke are more likely to die within a year if they live in more deprived areas according to new research from the University of Aberdeen.
    Funded by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, and published in Cerebrovascular Diseases, the team analysed data from almost 50,000 patients recorded in the Scottish Stroke Care Audit (SSCA).
    The scientists looked at multiple outcomes after stroke including death from any cause within a year and prescriptions given for medication known to prevent recurrent stroke. They investigated whether these outcomes were impacted by the patients’ ‘neighbourhood deprivation score,’ measured by the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD).
    Results showed that stroke patients from the most deprived areas were more likely to die from any cause within a year of the stroke than those in the least deprived areas.
    Also, patients living in the most deprived areas were younger and had more co-existing health conditions than those in the least deprived areas at the time of their stroke.
    The treatment patients received also differed according to where they lived. The researchers explain that after an ischaemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot in the brain, aspirin-like drugs are recommended to stop recurrence. However, if the patient has atrial fibrillation (AF), a type of heart rhythm problem where the heartbeat is irregular, blood thinners called anticoagulants are given as they have been shown to reduce the risk of another stroke in these AF patients. This analysis showed that, compared to more affluent areas, patients in more deprived areas were significantly less likely to be appropriately treated with recommended blood thinners if they had AF and more likely to be given aspirin-like drugs.
    The authors suggest that the reasons for this disparity in treatment might be differences in awareness of stroke risks factors and the benefits of treatment as well as better general health in more affluent stroke survivors. However, even after taking stroke severity, access to stroke care and co-existing conditions into consideration, there was still a difference in death rates between affluent and deprived areas, suggesting there is a need for further work to understand this.
    The team propose that their findings should be considered when developing public health messaging and policy, with a view to tailoring advice and subsequent treatment according to where people live.
    Dr Kadie-Ann Sterling, Research Assistant, at the University of Aberdeen, who led the study explains: “Our findings suggest that there were significant differences in stroke presentation, secondary prevention prescribing and mortality outcomes across different areas in Scotland and this was dependent upon the deprivation within each area.

    Understanding the differences in stroke presentation and outcomes between different neighbourhoods should influence public health education, decisions around screening for cardiovascular risk factors and should also be a factor when considering more focussed longer-term follow-up in the most vulnerable patients.” Dr Kadie-Ann Sterling

    “Understanding the differences in stroke presentation and outcomes between different neighbourhoods should influence public health education, decisions around screening for cardiovascular risk factors and should also be a factor when considering more focussed longer-term follow-up in the most vulnerable patients.”
    Professor Mary Joan MacLeod, Chair in Clinical Medicine at the University of Aberdeen and Honorary Consultant at NHS Grampian who co-authored the paper adds: “Our findings suggest that a national approach to stroke prevention and best stroke management may need to be adapted to take into account these disparities and focus on different approaches for more deprived neighbourhood areas.”
    Jane-Claire Judson Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland who funded the research said: “We are proud to support the University of Aberdeen in this research and commend the scientists behind its findings.
    “The study confirms what we see every day in communities across Scotland – stroke care is not equal, and that’s unacceptable.
    “The worrying trend that people living in more deprived areas are more likely to die within a year of a stroke and less likely to receive the right treatment or consistent care is both alarming and unjust.
    “These research outcomes amplify the need for a substantial rethink of how health services are delivered in Scotland. The postcode lottery for treatment and care must end.
    “At CHSS, we’re already working in communities to deliver prevention, support recovery, and enable people to self-manage their condition. But we can’t do it alone.
    “We’re calling on the Scottish Government and NHS to act now. We need a proactive approach to transforming healthcare services, and CHSS stands ready to help drive forward a fairer and more effective stroke care system for everyone in Scotland.”

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    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Riley, and McDonald Rivet Introduce CROP For Farming Act to Support Conservation and Agriculture

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 7/7/25… Today, Representatives Mike Lawler (NY-17), joined by Josh Riley (NY-19) and Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) introduced the Conservation and Regenerative Optimization Practices for Farming Act, or the CROP for Farming Act, a targeted, bipartisan proposal to strengthen conservation efforts and equip farmers with new tools to improve soil health, enhance productivity, and reduce harmful emissions through voluntary practices.

    The bill updates the Food Security Act of 1985 to recognize and support farming efforts to reduce nitrous oxide and methane emissions, while promoting carbon storage in soil and vegetation, all through existing conservation incentive contracts under the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

    Through commonsense updates to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the bill encourages practices such as no-till farming, cover cropping, and improved grazing management —strategies that enhance soil fertility, improve water retention, and support long-term farm resilience.

    “Our farmers are the backbone of our economy and the original conservationists,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. “The CROP for Farming Act empowers them to continue adopting responsible land management practices that protect natural resources and ensure long-term viability, not just for their farms, but for our food supply and our environment. This bill ensures federal policy reflects the realities on the ground and supports producers who are making smart, forward-looking decisions.”

    “Upstate farmers are leading on climate-smart ag—using cover crops, rotational grazing, and precision fertilizer to cut emissions and rebuild the soil. The CROP for Farming Act makes sure USDA conservation funding supports those efforts. It directs more resources to practices that fight climate change and strengthen rural economies. It’s practical, it’s bipartisan, and I’m proud to sponsor it,” said Congressman Josh Riley.

    “The success of our farmers and protecting the environment go hand in hand,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “I hear from farmers all the time whose families have worked their land for generations and who want to conserve that same land for future generations. Through the CROP Farming Act, I am working with both parties to make that easier to achieve.”

    “Our farmers need federal conservation programs that support the soil management practices essential for addressing today’s environmental and economic challenges. The CROP for Farming Act takes an important step by formally recognizing carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas reductions as conservation priorities. This legislation affirms the role of farmers in increasing carbon sequestration while stewarding healthy landscapes for soil health and water quality. We applaud Representatives Lawler and McDonald Rivet for advancing this bipartisan legislation that invests in the economic and environmental sustainability of both our farmers and their future,” said Daphne Yin, Director of Land Policy at Carbon180.

    The following organizations have endorsed the CROP for Farming Act:

    • Environmental Working Group
    • Carbon180
    • CleanEarth4Kids.org
    • Climate Action Now
    • Friends Committee on National Legislation
    • Northeast Organic Dairy Producers Alliance
    • Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York (NOFA-NY)
    • Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey (NOFA-NJ)
    • CT NOFA (Northeast Organic Farming Association of CT)
    • Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association
    • Organic Farming Research Foundation
    • Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action
    • Waterkeepers Chesapeake
    • Sierra Club
    • Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments
    • Center for Environmental Health
    • Women, Food, and Agriculture Network (WFAN)
    • Jewish Earth Alliance- PA
    • Fair Start Movement 
    • Santa Cruz Climate Action Network
    • Louisiana Food Policy Council
    • Green America
    • Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice 

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New mapping tool launched to help bring healthy food to those who need it most

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    New mapping tool launched to help bring healthy food to those who need it most

    New project, backed by government, will develop mapping tool to bring tackle food inequality.

    £8.5 million to tackle food inequality.

    • Government funded project will develop a mapping tool to direct a mobile greengrocer to visit areas of Liverpool where social housing residents have limited access to fresh, nutritious food.
    • Work in Liverpool is one of 6 innovative new projects to tackle food inequality receiving government funding.
    • Projects support government plans to build a fairer Britain, where everyone lives well for longer under the Plan for Change and 10 Year Health Plan.

    Households that may struggle to eat nutritious meals due to a lack of accessible healthy options are to receive government support as through 6 projects across the UK, the Science and Technology Peter Kyle unveiled today (Monday 7 July).

    One such project is based in Liverpool, where researchers are investigating the factors that influence the diets of people living in social housing and creating a mapping tool to help direct a mobile greengrocer, the Queen of Greens, to visit areas where social housing residents have limited access to fresh, nutritious food.

    The Queen of Greens bus has been bringing affordable fresh fruit and vegetables to communities across Liverpool and Knowsley since 2022 – the new research will expand and help target their route to ensure it reaches residents in social housing who may find it harder to access healthier options in their neighbourhoods.

    In some areas, the project will also include the offer of fruit and vegetable vouchers, provided by the Alexandra Rose Charity, for residents to make purchases on the Queen of Greens. The researchers will measure how diet and health changes as a result and then use a computer model to predict the broader impacts on health and accessibility to healthy foods if these interventions were rolled out across the country.

    This comes just after the government’s launch of the 10 Year Health Plan which set out various measures to help people make the healthy choice the easy choice, acknowledging that where people live can make good health easier or harder. By understanding the impact of innovative local interventions like mobile greengrocers and voucher schemes, this research could help shape more effective ways of improving diet and reducing health inequalities across the country.

    Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:

    No one in this country should be left unable to access the healthy food they need – which is why interventions like the Queen of Greens are so important – and measuring their impact is so vital.

    These projects will draw on the power of research to actively explore the best ways to get healthy food into the mouths of those who need it, potentially having a transformational effect on people’s lives, and fulfilling the missions set in our Plan for Change.

    This project in Liverpool is one of 6 receiving £8.5 million in government funding, through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), aimed at improving the accessibility of nutritious food and potentially tackling food waste, by making good food more available to people who need it.

    Lucy Antal, director of Alchemic Kitchen CIC who run the Queen of Greens, said:

    We are very much looking forward to working on this new research project with all the team assembled by the University of Liverpool. It will be a great opportunity to trial an expansion into supporting social housing tenants to access fresh produce, and to have the health and social impact of this intervention measured and assessed. The Queen of Greens is for everyone, and the data produced will help support our future activity.

    Professor Alison Park, Deputy Executive Chair of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), said: 

    Everyone should have access to healthy, nutritious food but we know the number of food insecure households across the UK is increasing. These innovative projects from across the UK – from Wales to Dundee, Nottingham to the Isle of Wight – will go a long way in helping us understand how to tackle food inequalities and what interventions really make a difference.

    Other projects

    2 ‘public restaurants’ (state-subsidised eateries) will be piloted in Dundee and Nottingham, to provide universal access to nutritious and sustainably produced foods in social settings, and to particularly meet the needs of deprived households with children. The pilots will draw on public health nutrition research with these groups, co-design sessions with a wide range of customers and insights from public restaurants historically in the UK and in other contexts.

    The role of community food markets in areas of Glasgow with limited access to grocery stores – known as ‘food deserts’ – will be assessed. To explore successful methods to promote food markets, researchers will incorporate art and food literacy activities to one market and compare the intervention against another market without the intervention.

    The quality of food is typically low at food pantries – which unlike the majority of food banks, do not require a referral – and  schemes in Southampton, the New Forest and the Isle of Wight will improve the nutritional, low-cost food made available by using online platforms linking supply and providers, in turn reducing waste and keeping surplus food more local. People using food pantries will be asked what other activities and support  they would like to see on offer – which might include cooking sessions or recipe boxes – and  the intervention will result in a toolkit of resources that councils and pantries can use to collect data about health and diet.

    Improving the nutritional content and take-up of free school meals and comparing school food systems across the UK will be the focus of a project led by academics in Wales. Researchers will assess what food is currently offered, what is chosen by families, and what is consumed by learners in the dinner hall. They will then work with schools to analyse the nutritional value and how this compares to established nutrient standards. Recommendations will be provided on how to enhance the nutritional content of school food and how to encourage families and children to take up school meals.

    Across England, workshops will be delivered in local authorities with more deprived populations. The main focus of the project will be to work with local authorities to develop and implement new policies to reduce local food inequalities.

    Notes to editors

    The project in Liverpool, ‘Supporting communities in social housing and optimising urban food system interventions for equity (SCHOUSE)’ will be led by the University of Liverpool.

    ‘DISHED: co-designing innovative infrastructure for sustainable healthy and equitable diets’, piloting public restaurants, will be led by the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex.

    ‘Community food market as a driver for equitable, sustainable food systems’ will be led by the University of Glasgow.

    ‘Food aid inequality rectified (FAIR-food)’, using online platforms to target high quality food to food pantries, will be led by the University of Southampton.

    ‘Reducing inequalities in school food environments (RISE)’: supporting provision, uptake and consumption of free school meals in primary schools’ will be led by Cardiff University.

    ‘Group model building to address dietary health inequalities in English local authorities: a randomised controlled trial with process evaluation’ will be led by the University of Cambridge.

    To speak to any of project leads, please contact the UKRI press office:

    DSIT media enquiries

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More NHS dentistry for those who need it most

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    More NHS dentistry for those who need it most

    New reforms to the dental contract will prioritise those with urgent and complex needs, with new measures for those with extreme tooth decay and gum disease

    • New reforms to the dental contract will prioritise those with urgent and complex needs, with new measures for those with extreme tooth decay and gum disease 

    • Cements manifesto commitment to deliver 700,000 additional urgent dental appointments every year, and pledge to ramp up preventative care for children’s dental health

    • Newly qualified dentists to work in the NHS for a minimum period, intended to be three years, to boost appointments

    Patients will find it easier to get an urgent care appointment under planned reforms to incentivise dentists to deliver more NHS work and fix the foundations of dentistry.

    Satisfaction with NHS dentistry has fallen to a record low, with the British Dental Association outlining that over 1 in 4 adults are struggling to access NHS dental care.

    The government is proposing a swathe of changes to tackle this, as it opens up a major consultation on NHS dentistry contract today to increase the amount of care.

    For example, it is currently less cost effective for dentists to take on patients who need more complex and extensive treatments such as crowns, bridges and dentures. The government is proposing to overhaul failing approaches like these and incentivise dentists more. 

    A new, special course of treatment for patients with severe gum disease or with at least 5 teeth with tooth decay, more money for denture modifications, and a requirement for dentists to deliver a set amount of urgent and unscheduled care each year, are also part of the government’s plans for dental contract reform. 

    The government will also bring in robust preventative measures for children’s teeth, including better use of tooth resin sealants for children with a history of dental decay and applying fluoride varnish on children’s without a full dental check-up. 

    This follows the latest stats showing that 22.4% of 5-year-old schoolchildren in England had experience of obvious dental decay, with tooth decay the most common reason for hospital admissions in children aged between 5 and 9 years.

    Measures to make dental staff feel rewarded, incentivised and a bigger part of the NHS are also part of the government’s proposed package.

    Just last week, the government’s 10 Year Health Plan set out measures to improve dental access for all, including a requirement for newly qualified dentists to practice in the NHS for a minimum period, intended to be 3 years.  

    Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said: 

    We inherited a broken NHS dental system that is in crisis.  We have already started fixing this, rolling out 700,000 urgent and emergency appointments and bringing in supervising toothbrushing for 3-5 year olds in the most deprived areas of the country. 

    But to get us to a place where patients feel NHS dentistry is reliable again, we have to tackle the problems in the system at their root.

    These reforms will bring common sense into the system again, attracting more NHS dentists, treating those with the greatest need first, and changing the system to make it work.

    This is essential to our Plan for Change – building an NHS fit for the future and making sure poor oral health doesn’t hold people back from getting into work and staying healthy.

    This consultation builds on action already taken to roll out 700,000 additional appointments, address the immediate needs of patients in pain, the introduction of a national supervised toothbrushing programme for 3-5-year-olds,  and the recruitment of more NHS dentists through a nationwide ‘Golden Hello’ scheme. 

    The consultation will run for six weeks, closing on Tuesday, 19 August.

    ENDS

    Notes to editors:

    The consultation document will be available on gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 7.7.25

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 7, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:
     
    Thanne Berg, of Albany, has been appointed Deputy Director of Site Mitigation and Restoration Program at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Berg has been Acting Deputy Director of Site Mitigation and Restoration Program at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control since 2024. She was an Attorney of Hazardous Waste Program at the United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 9, from 2023 to 2024. She was Special Advisor to Center Associate Director for the National Aeronautics Space Administration Ames Research Center in 2023. Berg was the Senior Program Advisor at the United State Environmental Protection Agency Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance from 2021 to 2023. She was Associate Director for the Water and Pesticides Branch at the United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 9 Enforcement Division from 2016 to 2021. Berg was Attorney Supervisor at the United States Environmental Protection Agency Region 9 from 2011 to 2016. She was the National Lead Region Coordinator for Enforcement at the United States Environmental Protection Agency from 2008 to 2010. Berg was Supervisor for Region 9 Superfund Case Development and Cost Recovery for the United States Environmental Protection Agency from 2006 to 2008. Berg was Attorney for the Hazardous Waste Programs of the United States Environmental Protection Agency from 1997 to. She earned a Juris Doctor degree and a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from the University of Alabama. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $203,004. Berg is a Democrat.
     
    Albert Lundeen, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Director of the Office of Communications at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Lundeen has been Assistant Secretary in the Office of Public and Employee Communications at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation since 2023. He was Deputy Executive Director for Strategic Planning and Media at the California Energy Commission from 2014 to 2021. Lundeen was Media Relations and Legislative Affairs Manager at the Financial Information System for California from 2012 to 2014. He was Partner at LundeenMacdonald from 2011 to 2012. Lundeen was Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the California Department of Public Health from 2009 to 2011. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, a Master of Arts degree in English from California State University, Sacramento, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies (Broadcast Journalism) from California State University, Chico. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $167,052. Lundeen is a Democrat.

    Press releases, Recent news

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    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring July 4, 2025, as “Independence Day” in the State of California.The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONEach year on the Fourth of July, we…

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National Emergency Alert test to be held on 7th September

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    National Emergency Alert test to be held on 7th September

    The UK Government will send a test Emergency Alert to mobile phones across the UK at around 15:00 on 7th September 2025

    • Emergency Alert to be sent to mobile phones across the UK in the second ever national test of the system
    • Alert will sound at around 3pm on Sunday 7 September 
    • Test comes as the government publishes a Resilience Action Plan with new steps to secure the country and deliver the Plan for Change

    Mobile phones in the UK will be sent a test Emergency Alert at around 15:00 on Sunday 7th September 2025, as part of plans to strengthen the country’s preparedness. 

    The Emergency Alerts system is used to warn if there’s a danger to life nearby, including extreme weather. It allows vital information and advice to be sent to people rapidly in an emergency.

    During the test, mobile phones will vibrate and make a loud siren sound for roughly ten seconds, even if they are set to silent. A message will also appear on phone screens, making it clear the alert is only a test. There are approximately 87 million mobile phones in the UK.

    The test will be just the second of its kind and follows a government commitment to test the system regularly to make sure it works optimally and familiarise the public with the alerts. This is in line with standard practice in other countries, such as Japan and the USA.

    Ahead of the national test, the government will be running a public information campaign to notify people that the test is taking place, including communications targeted at vulnerable groups, such as victims of domestic abuse. The campaign will also feature products in British Sign Language.

    Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said:

    Emergency Alerts have the potential to save lives, allowing us to share essential information rapidly in emergency situations including extreme storms. Just like the fire alarm in your house, it’s important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it. 

    This test is part of our action plan to build resilience across the whole country and secure the nation under the Plan for Change – from the £1 billion we’re investing in a new network of National Biosecurity Centres to the £4.2 billion we’re investing to build a new generation of flood defences to protect local communities.

    Since the first national test of the Emergency Alerts system in April 2023, five alerts have been sent, including during major storms when lives were at risk.

    The largest ever use of the system saw approximately 4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland receive an alert during Storm Éowyn in January 2025, after a red weather warning was issued, meaning there was a risk to life. 

    Approximately 3.5 million people across Wales and the South West of England received an alert during Storm Darragh in December 2024. The storm went on to kill two people. 

    Other activations have included when an unexploded World War II bomb was discovered in Plymouth, as well as during localised flash flooding in Cumbria and Leicestershire.

    The news comes as the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, unveils a new Resilience Action Plan to improve the way the government prepares for and responds to emergencies. The Resilience Action Plan, to be published on Tuesday, sets out: 

    • The government will raise awareness of GOV.UK/PREPARE, which gives information on simple and effective steps people can take to be more prepared for an emergency.
    • The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is investing £370 million to better secure the UK’s telecommunications networks through research and investment in new technology and infrastructure.
    • The National Situation Centre and the Devolved Governments are going to sign a data sharing MoU to ensure that every nation in the UK has the best available data to prepare and respond to crises.

    The government will also publish an update on the implementation of the 2023 Biological Security Strategy on Tuesday, outlining further action being taken to secure the country from biological risks, including:

    • £15m funding will be made available in FY25/26 via the Integrated Security Fund to help strengthen biosecurity capability across government
    • A Pandemic Preparedness and Response Research Framework will be published by the Department for Health and Social Care, helping to coordinate scientific research to prepare for the next pandemic.
    • The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) will invest £1m through the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) across projects with Kromek Group, Cambridge Consultants Ltd, University of Glasgow, Queens University Belfast and Cardiff University to develop new, novel methods to detect and attribute biological incidents.
    • A new network of National Biosecurity Centres, announced in the National Security Strategy and backed by over £1.3 billion of investment, will bolster the UK’s defences against biological incidents, accidents and attacks.

    The announcements follow the publication of the National Security Strategy last month, which set out the largest sustained increase in national security spending since the Cold War, as the government takes more action to secure the county. 

    In June, DEFRA announced it was investing £4.2 billion in new flood defences to keep communities safe.

    This Autumn will also see the Department for Health and Social Care and the UK Health Security Agency deliver the largest pandemic exercise in the country’s history. 

    For the first time, the government can reveal that preparations for pandemic exercise (‘Exercise Pegasus’) are already underway. Exercise Alkarab, an initial simulation, took place in May with more than 150 participants from across the UK, including health officials and government ministers.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Dramatic Reduction in Emissions Must Start Now, Secretary-General Tells BRICS Conference, Calling Impact on Human Health ‘Atrocious’

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the BRICS [Brazil, Russian Federation, India, China and South Africa] Summit session titled “Environment, COP30 and Global Health”, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, today:

    Our environment is being attacked on all fronts:  pollution poisoning land and water; biodiversity destroyed at an appalling rate; and of course, the climate crisis.

    Across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters — as disasters accelerate.

    The impact on human health is atrocious:  Extreme heat kills.  So does water contamination.  Destroyed lands and harvests push up prices and aggravate hunger.  Our changing climate inflames the spread of disease — from malaria to dengue fever.

    The vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price.  And we absolutely need to tackle the point where climate and health meet.  And that is where the World Health Organization’s (WHO) role is fundamental.

    As we speak, emissions keep rising.  The 1.5°C limit is on a knife’s edge.  We absolutely need a dramatic reduction in emissions — starting now.

    The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities must apply, but all countries must make an extra effort.  And we must accelerate the pace of the energy transformation with justice, in order to make sure that all countries can benefit.

    Renewables already largely match fossil fuels in global installed power capacity.  And clean energy investments are racing ahead of fossil fuels.  Renewables are the cheapest and fastest new electricity almost everywhere.  And we can’t forget the 700 million people still without electricity in the world.

    Renewables boost energy security and sovereignty, liberating countries from volatile fossil fuel markets, connecting people to power in the most remote locations and powering sustainable development.  And renewables and electrification don’t churn out toxic air pollution — which today kills 7 million people every year.

    We need Governments to build on the progress of last year’s biodiversity COP, particularly reaching an ambitious agreement on finance.  We need a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution — this year.  And we need to make COP30 [thirtieth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] a success.  I urge you to demonstrate how multilateralism counts, addressing the world’s needs in these difficult and divided times.

    And to come forward by September with ambitious new national climate plans — or nationally determined contributions that show the way:

    That cover all emissions and the whole economy; align with the 1.5°C limit; and advance the global energy transition goals agreed at COP28.

    We need to tackle injustices in the critical minerals value chain, and to ensure developing countries receive maximum benefit from their resources, as recommended by the United Nations Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals.  And we need you standing firm on finance for a just, equitable transition.

    Developed countries must keep their promises, including the $40 billion a year for adaptation starting in 2025.  Adaptation needs are particularly dramatic in developing countries that barely contribute to climate change.

    We must ensure that the $300 billion a year by 2035 for developing countries agreed in Baku is delivered, and chart a course to raising $1.3 trillion a year, including new and innovative sources of finance and a credible price on carbon.

    We must bolster South-South cooperation and improve new models such as the Just Energy Transition Partnerships.  And we must fill the coffers of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage.

    Allow me a story.  When this Fund was created, the pledging conference that took place in COP resulted in a sum that corresponded to the contract salary of the best well-paid basketball player in the United States.  This shows that we must be serious when we talk about the Loss and Damage Fund.

    But, the problem goes far beyond climate finance.  As I said yesterday, we must invest in the reform of the international financial architecture and institutions, take action on debt relief, and triple the finance and capacity of the multilateral development banks to the benefit of developing countries.

    This is a moment of profound peril and possibility.  I urge the BRICS countries to be a pillar of the world’s response in solidarity — for people, planet and prosperity.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Urges Court to Halt Unconstitutional ICE Raids in Los Angeles

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined a coalition of 17 other attorneys general in supporting the American Civil Liberties Union’s (ACLU) lawsuit challenging the federal government’s use of unlawful immigration enforcement tactics in Los Angeles, California. In an amicus brief filed today in Perdomo v. Noem, Attorney General James and the coalition urge the court to grant a temporary restraining order halting the raids, which have upended the community, harmed local economies, and undermined public trust in law enforcement.

    “In Los Angeles and nationwide, we are seeing immigration enforcement officers deploy dystopian tactics that are deeply harmful,” said Attorney General James. “No one should fear being questioned, detained, or deported by unidentified masked agents while taking their child to school, going to work, or attending church. These mass raids are tearing families apart, threatening public safety, and turning once-lively neighborhoods into ghost towns. Federal agents are sowing fear in entire communities, which is why we are urging the court to intervene and stop these unconstitutional raids at once.”

    In the brief, Attorney General James and the coalition detail how the federal government’s current immigration enforcement efforts have “shattered the rhythms of everyday life” in Los Angeles. In recent months, masked agents conducting unannounced and unmarked operations in neighborhoods, churches, schools, and local businesses have left people afraid to leave their homes. Residents, including U.S. citizens, have been unlawfully detained, questioned, and harassed, often without any reasonable suspicion of wrongdoing. Local businesses have closed and farmers markets have shut down due to fear of enforcement. Hospitals and health clinics report soaring appointment cancellation rates, which presents alarming concerns for public health. Students are skipping school and graduation ceremonies, days that are supposed to be among the most joyous of their lives. Houses of worship have also seen a dramatic decline in attendance.

    The attorneys general highlight the long history of discriminatory and militarized immigration enforcement campaigns in California, including “Operation Wetback,” a 1954 mass deportation campaign that took its name from an ethnic slur, as well as the La Placita raids during the Great Depression. The attorneys general note that at the time, Mexican farmworkers were indiscriminately blamed for job shortages and shrinking public benefits, and ultimately, the campaign resulted in the deportation of nearly two million Mexican Americans, more than half of whom were U.S. citizens, without due process. Families were separated, and many children never again saw their parents. Historians and scholars have widely condemned these discriminatory raids as inhumane terror campaigns.

    Attorney General James and the coalition draw parallels between those shameful chapters of American history and the current actions under the Trump administration, which seemingly prioritize maximizing the quantity of arrests over the right to due process. They highlight the president’s past remarks, in which he praised “Operation Wetback” as an enforcement model and hailed the Eisenhower administration for setting the record for deportations, a record he said his administration would break. The attorneys general emphasize that the administration’s recent immigration raids, including in Los Angeles, appear to bear many of the same hallmarks as the earlier mass deportation efforts that are now shameful chapters of American history.

    The attorneys general argue that the federal government’s conduct creates confusion and fear that also directly impedes local law enforcement. Numerous incidents have been reported in which plainclothes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents driving unmarked vehicles were mistaken for criminals, leading to false reports of kidnappings and assaults. This, too, erodes the culture of trust between immigrant communities and the police. ICE’s secretive approach has even led to a rise in copycat crimes in which masked perpetrators imitate ICE agents in order to abduct or harass others.

    In their filing, Attorney General James and the coalition emphasize that while the ACLU’s lawsuit is specifically focused on ICE enforcement tactics in Los Angeles, the federal government has been engaging in widespread raids in cities throughout the country, including New York. Arrests at immigration courts in Manhattan and on farms upstate have contributed to a culture of fear for many immigrant New Yorkers. The attorneys general are asking the court to immediately intervene and stop the unlawful immigration enforcement tactics in Los Angeles, arguing that the culture of fear that these raids have created permeates well beyond city and state borders and has had an overwhelming chilling effect on communities nationwide.

    The attorneys general are supporting the plaintiffs’ motion for a temporary restraining order, in which they argue ICE is not stopping people based on any reasonable, individualized suspicion, and instead is engaging in racial profiling. 

    Joining Attorney General James in filing this brief are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Aterian Announces Exclusive Prime Day Deals Across Six Leading Brands

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUMMIT, N.J., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER), a consumer products company, today unveiled its Prime Day lineup offering limited-time deals of up to 36% off top-rated products across six of its premier e-commerce brands—hOmeLabs, Squatty Potty, PurSteam, Mueller Living, Healing Solutions, and Photo Paper Direct—bringing must-have home upgrades, wellness essentials, culinary aids, and premium printable fabrics to savvy shoppers this summer.

    Shoppers can take advantage of these exclusive limited-time savings on top-rated items, from smart dehumidifiers and ergonomic stools to steam-powered cleaning tools, versatile kitchen gadgets, therapeutic oils, and printable fabric sheets. Prime Day deals run from July 8th through July 11th—while supplies last.

    hOmeLabs creates home-comfort appliances that blend high performance with sleek, modern design—helping make everyday living healthier and more efficient.

    Featured sale products include:

    • hOmeLabs 50-Pint Dehumidifier (Wi-Fi Enabled): 21% Off (Originally: $269.99 // Sale Price: $212.49). Removes up to 120 pints of moisture per day, offers ultra-quiet operation, auto-restart, reusable filter, and full smartphone control via built-in Wi-Fi.
    • hOmeLabs 8-Pint Dehumidifier (Wi-Fi Enabled): 15% Off (Originally: $179.99 // Sale Price: $152.99). Removes up to 24 pints of moisture per day, offers ultra-quiet operation, auto-restart, reusable filter, and full smartphone control via built-in Wi-Fi.

    Visit hOmeLabs’ Amazon store to shop this deal and explore many more Prime Day savings.

    hOmeLabs Brand Store Link

    Squatty Potty revolutionizes bathroom ergonomics with its patented toilet stools—designed to promote a natural “squat” posture for faster, more complete elimination and improved digestive health.

    Featured sale products include:

    • Squatty Potty Simple Stool: 32% Off (Originally: $24.99 // Sale Price: $16.99).
      Lightweight, stackable under most toilets, with a durable, high-gloss finish—elevates your feet into the optimal position to reduce strain and support digestive wellness.

    Head to Squatty Potty’s Prime Day page to grab this offer and discover more discounts.

    Squatty Potty Brand Store Link

    PurSteam delivers powerful, reliable home-care solutions—from steam irons, steam mops and handheld steamers—that simplify chores while safeguarding fabrics and surfaces.

    Featured sale products include:

    • PurSteam 1750W Steam Iron: 19% Off (Originally: $49.99 // Sale Price: $40.36).
      1750 W rapid heat-up, continuous steam output, non-stick ceramic soleplate, plus a vertical-steam option for hanging garments.
    • PurSteam Therma Pro 211 V4 Steam Mop: 11% Off (Originally: $89.99 // Sale Price: $79.99). Chemical-free sanitizing steam for hard floors and area rugs, 360° swivel steering, and washable microfiber pads.

    Shop these PurSteam deals and uncover many more Prime Day offers on their Amazon storefront. Click the link below and navigate to the All Deals or Prime Days tab.

    PurSteam Brand Store Link

    Mueller Living specializes in small kitchen appliances that pair elegant design with robust functionality—making meal prep faster, easier, and more fun.

    Featured sale product include:

    • Mueller Hand Blender: 32% Off (Originally: $34.99 // Sale Price: $23.73).
      250 W motor with stainless-steel blades, two-speed control, ergonomic handle, plus whisk and chopping attachments for soups, sauces, and more.

    Browse Mueller Living’s Prime Day deals to seize this offer and explore additional savings.

    MuellerLiving Brand Store Link

    Healing Solutions, our collection of oil brands offers natural, plant-based wellness products formulated to support everyday health and comfort.

    Featured sale product include:

    • LAB BULK Eucalyptus Essential Oil, 16 oz: 20% Off (Originally: $26.99 // Sale Price: $21.59). 100% pure eucalyptus oil—ideal for aromatherapy, steam inhalation, and topical blends, supporting respiratory relief and mental clarity.

    Discover this Healing Solutions deal and more wellness essentials on our Prime Day page. Click the link below and navigate to the All Deals or Prime Days tab.

    Healing Solutions Brand Store Link

    Photo Paper Direct creates professional-quality printable media for craft and photo enthusiasts, delivering vibrant, fade-resistant results every time.

    Featured sale product include:

    • PPD Printable Fabric Sheets, 8.5×11″ (10 Sheets): 26% Off (Originally: $14.99 // Sale Price: $11.04). 100% real cotton, matte finish, no watermark—designed for inkjet printers to produce washable, long-lasting fabric prints.

    Shop this Photo Paper Direct offer and browse many more creative media discounts this Prime Day.

    PPD Brand Store Link

    About Aterian, Inc.
    Aterian, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATER) a consumer products company that builds and acquires leading e-commerce brands across multiple categories, including home and kitchen appliances, health and wellness, and air quality devices. The Company sells across the world’s largest online marketplaces, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target as well as its own direct-to-consumer websites. Aterian’s brands include Mueller Living, PurSteam, hOmeLabs, Squatty Potty, Healing Solutions, and Photo Paper Direct. To learn more, visit www.aterian.io.

    Forward Looking Statements
    All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements.. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control and could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to, those related to our ability to continue as a going concern, the effect of tariffs and other costs on our results, our ability to continue to operate following our reduction in workforce, our ability to meet financial covenants with our lenders, our ability to maintain and to grow market share in existing and new product categories; our ability to continue to profitably sell the SKUs we operate; our ability to maintain Amazon’s Prime badge on our seller accounts or reinstate the Prime badge in the event of any removal of such badge by Amazon; our ability to create operating leverage and efficiency when integrating companies that we acquire, including through the use of our team’s expertise, the economies of scale of our supply chain and automation driven by our platform; those related to our ability to grow internationally and through the launch of products under our brands and the acquisition of additional brands; those related to consumer demand, our cash flows, financial condition, forecasting and revenue growth rate; our supply chain including sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing and fulfillment; our ability to manage expenses, working capital and capital expenditures efficiently; our business model and our technology platform; our ability to disrupt the consumer products industry; our ability to generate profitability and stockholder value; international tariffs and trade measures; inventory management, product liability claims, recalls or other safety and regulatory concerns; reliance on third party online marketplaces; seasonal and quarterly variations in our revenue; acquisitions of other companies and technologies and our ability to integrate such companies and technologies with our business; our ability to continue to access debt and equity capital (including on terms advantageous to the Company) and the extent of our leverage; and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), all of which you may obtain for free on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, even if subsequently made available by us on our website or otherwise. We do not undertake any obligation to update, amend or clarify these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    Investor Contact:

    The Equity Group
    Devin Sullivan, Managing Director
    dsullivan@theequitygroup.com

    Conor Rodriguez, Associate
    crodriguez@theequitygroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • PM Modi gifts symbols of India’s cultural heritage to world leaders on five-nation tour

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship by presenting symbolic, handcrafted gifts to global leaders during his ongoing five-nation tour, reflecting the country’s artistic legacy and spiritual traditions.

    PM Modi gifted a hand-etched silver lion mounted on a Fuchsite stone base to Argentine President Javier Milei. The intricately crafted lion represents courage and leadership, while the green Fuchsite — often called the “Stone of Healing and Resilience” — adds a layer of natural symbolism. The piece highlights Rajasthan’s traditional metalwork and gemstone artistry, using materials sourced from India’s mineral-rich regions.

    To Argentina’s Vice President, Victoria Villarruel, PM Modi presented a traditional Madhubani painting depicting the Sun, crafted in Bihar’s Mithila region. Known for its bold lines, intricate patterns and natural colours, Madhubani art is a centuries-old tradition associated with festivals and rituals. The Sun, surrounded by floral motifs, symbolises life and energy.

    In Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar received two gifts reflecting India’s cultural and spiritual ethos. One was a Kalash containing water from the River Sarayu, considered sacred in Hindu tradition and believed to bring peace and prosperity. The Sarayu flows through Ayodhya, regarded as the birthplace of Lord Ram, and the metal Kalash symbolises sanctity and abundance.

    The other gift was a pure silver replica of the Ayodhya Ram Temple, crafted by artisans in Uttar Pradesh. The miniature model captures the temple’s distinctive architecture and stands as a tribute to India’s temple craftsmanship, signifying devotion and cultural pride.

    These gifts, seen as acts of cultural diplomacy, come as PM Modi seeks to strengthen India’s ties with partner countries during the five-nation visit covering Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia from July 2 to 9. 

    ANI

  • MIL-Evening Report: If you have a pet as a kid, does this lower your risk of asthma and eczema?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samantha Chan, Immunology and Allergy Lead, Snow Centre for Immune Health, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)

    Catherine Delahaye/Getty Images

    As the number of people with allergies grows worldwide, scientists are trying to work out precisely how and why these conditions – such as asthma and eczema – develop.

    One long-standing idea is the “hygiene hypothesis”. This suggests our modern indoor lifestyles are to blame, as they limit our early exposure to germs and allergens which help train the immune system.

    But growing evidence suggests having a pet may counter this effect. As any pet owner knows, our furry friends bring a lot of mess, germs and fur into our homes – along with the cuddles.

    So, does spending time with animals lower children’s risk of allergies? Here’s what we know.

    How allergies develop

    During early childhood, our immune systems learn what to attack and what to ignore to stop us getting sick.

    Evidence suggests early exposure – to family members, food, germs, dust, dirt, pollen and pet dander (skin flakes) – shapes this immune response.

    Allergic conditions develop when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, such as dust, pollen or certain foods. These reactions can affect the skin, airways and gut.

    Dogs bring both love and mess – which might be just what a developing immune system needs.
    Samantha Chan/Author provided, CC BY-NC-ND

    However, we still don’t fully understand why some people develop allergies while others don’t.

    Scientists have identified genes linked to allergic conditions. But most have subtle effects on the immune system and act as “risk factors” – they increase the chance of disease but don’t cause it outright.

    Recent research suggests exposure to bacteria in our environment could be another major factor.

    From birth, our bodies are colonised by bacteria, especially in the gut. This community of microorganisms is known as the microbiome.

    Ongoing “crosstalk” between the microbiome and immune system is crucial for healthy immune function. When this balance is disturbed, it can contribute to inflammation and disease.

    The effect of our early environment

    In the last few decades, studies of children raised on farms gave us some of the first clues that early environments can affect allergy risk.

    Compared to children raised in cities, children on farms are less likely to have allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma. This is especially true of those in close contact with animals.

    Notably, farm-raised children tend to develop a more diverse microbiome than children raised in urban environments. This may help make their immune system more tolerant to foreign substances (such as bacteria and dirt) and less likely to develop allergies.

    However, across the world children are increasingly living in urban areas.

    This means a pet may be the closest contact they have with animals. So, does this still lower their risk of developing allergies?

    Children raised on farms, especially those in close contact with animals, seem to have a lower risk of allergic diseases.
    Peter van Haastrecht / 500px/Getty Images

    What the studies show in eczema

    Some studies indicate children with pets may be less likely to have allergies.

    However this evidence hasn’t always been easy to interpret.

    It can be difficult to tell whether lower allergy rates are due to the pets themselves or other factors, such as location, lifestyle or a family history of allergies.

    A review of results from 23 studies found children exposed to dogs early in life were significantly less likely to develop eczema.

    Another 2025 study analysed genetic data from more than 270,000 people. It found a gene linked to eczema only increased risk of eczema in children who hadn’t been exposed to dogs.

    This suggests early dog exposure may help protect children who are genetically more likely to develop eczema.

    What about asthma?

    When it comes to asthma, the story gets trickier.

    One 2001 study followed more than 1,000 children in the United States from birth to age 13. It found those living with dogs indoors were less likely to develop frequent wheezing – a common asthma symptom – but only if they didn’t have a family history of asthma.

    A Korean study from 2021 found those who had dogs during childhood were less likely to develop allergies. But they had a slightly higher risk of non-allergic wheeze — a type of breathing difficulty usually caused by airway irritation or infections (not allergens).

    This suggests while growing up with a dog may protect against allergic conditions, such as asthma, it may increase the chance of certain non-allergic respiratory symptoms.

    What about cats?

    It’s challenging to tease apart the specific effects of cats versus dogs, since many early studies grouped all furry pets together.

    But in studies that have looked at them separately, living with cats didn’t seem to reduce allergy risk.

    One potential reason is cats and dogs carry very different microbes, which may influence how they shape the household environment.

    Cats and dogs carry very different microbes, which may influence how they shape the household environment.
    Photo by Mochamad Reza Aditya on Unsplash

    So, should you get a pet?

    If you’re already thinking about getting a dog, there’s decent evidence early exposure could reduce your child’s risk of eczema, and possibly other allergic conditions too.

    It’s not a guarantee, but a potential bonus – alongside companionship, joy and never having to worry about what to do with leftovers.

    And if a dog’s not on the cards, don’t worry. Spending time outdoors, encouraging messy play, and avoiding overuse of disinfectants can all help build a more resilient immune response.

    Samantha Chan has served on advisory boards for CSL Behring. She is in receipt of funding from the Allergy and Immunology Foundation Australia and Walter & Eliza Hall Institute. She is affiliated with the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. She is a physician for the Snow Centre for Immune Health, funded by the Snow Medical Research Foundation.

    In the past five years, Jo Douglass has served on advisory boards, provided advice or undertaken presentations on behalf of Astra-Zeneca P/L, GSK, CSL, Stallergenes, Immunosis P/L , Novartis and Sanofi. She is in receipt of funding from the Medical Research Future Fund for studies in allergic asthma. She is a clinical co-director of the Snow Centre for Immune Health, funded by the Snow Medical Research Foundation.

    – ref. If you have a pet as a kid, does this lower your risk of asthma and eczema? – https://theconversation.com/if-you-have-a-pet-as-a-kid-does-this-lower-your-risk-of-asthma-and-eczema-258581

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Quitting the quit-aid: people trying to stop vaping nicotine need more support – here are some strategies to help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joya Kemper, Associate Professor in Marketing, University of Canterbury

    Getty Images

    New Zealand is among a number of countries that encourage vaping (the use of e-cigarettes) as a tool to help people stop smoking tobacco. But what happens when people want to quit vaping?

    Nicotine vapes can be addictive. While they have helped many New Zealanders quit smoking cigarettes, others – including people who never smoked – now find themselves wanting to quit vaping.

    To better understand how and why people try to quit, we surveyed more than 1,000 people in Aotearoa New Zealand who have used nicotine vapes.

    The findings from our study point to a need for support that treats vaping cessation like quitting smoking because for many, the challenges are similar.

    We focused on New Zealanders aged 16 and over who had vaped nicotine. Of the 1,119 respondents, 401 currently vaped and 718 had quit vaping. Around one in eight had never smoked tobacco at all.

    We found using vapes for more than two years and with nicotine concentrations above 3% was linked to higher dependence on vaping. Most current or past vapers wanted to stop, and more than three-quarters of participants had made up to three serious attempts to quit vaping.

    How people try to stop vaping

    Some people wanted to quit vaping because what began as a tool to support quitting smoking has become a new source of frustration or worry.

    The most common reasons to stop vaping were concerns about current or future health, disliking the feeling of being dependent, and the cost of vaping products. These motivations echo the reasons many people cite for quitting smoking, suggesting that people who vape (like most people who smoke) do not want to remain hooked on nicotine, even if it helped them quit cigarettes.

    Participants used a variety of strategies to quit, including abrupt cessation (“cold turkey”), switching to other forms of reduced-harm nicotine (such as nicotine patches, gums, lozenges, mouth sprays), and tapering down nicotine levels. Many also relied on support from whānau (family) and friends.

    These strategies mirror those used in smoking cessation.

    Our participants reiterate the importance of personal strategies, building on previous work on interventions that target vaping cessation.

    Some people did quit vaping and had no problem quitting. However, others struggled. Triggers that cause a relapse to vaping are similar to those many people who smoke experience, including stress and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.

    Being around others who vape is also a trigger for relapse. These factors highlight the social and psychological effects of vaping, just as they have long been recognised in tobacco addiction research.

    Importantly, these triggers appeared consistent across different groups regardless of age, gender, cultural background or smoking history. Whether someone vaped to stop smoking or whether vaping was the first nicotine product they tried, quitting came with similar challenges.

    Better support for vaping cessation

    Our study suggests many New Zealanders are now trying to quit nicotine vapes, and some face real barriers to doing so.

    We think existing smoking-cessation support and medications could play a useful role. These tools include behavioural support, such as building self-belief in the ability to quit, identifying key triggers (and strategies to avoid them), stress management strategies, and access to tapering schedules (cutting down the frequency of vaping over time or gradually reducing nicotine concentration).

    As previous work shows, the type of support needed may differ between older tobacco smokers and the growing population of teens taking up vaping.

    Vaping as an exit from tobacco smoking should still be offered to people who smoke. Once vaping is taken up, it should be promoted as a medium-term, step-down tactic (3–12 months), while ensuring that relapse to smoking is avoided. Such a strategy aligns with vaping-cessation guidance provided in the United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand.

    But it’s clear the landscape has shifted. Vaping is no longer just used to quit smoking; vapes are used by people who have never smoked.

    For some, vaping becomes a habit they want to quit in its own right, but it may not always be easy given the addictive nature of nicotine. We need dedicated support for vaping cessation to address this growing concern.

    Findings from our survey have been key to the development of a New Zealand vaping-cessation clinical trial currently underway. People who are interested in quitting vaping can find out more and register their interest.

    This study was supported by a grant from the University of Auckland, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences Research and Development Fund.

    Amanda Palmer has received funding from the US National Institutes of Health and Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina.

    Bodo Lang has received funding from the Health Research Council of NZ.

    Chris Bullen receives funding from the Health Research Council of NZ, Ministry of Health and US NIH for research projects on smoking and vaping and personal funding from Kenvue Asia for cochairing ASEAN smoking-cessation leadership meetings. He co-chairs the smokefree expert advisory group for Health Coalition Aotearoa.

    George Laking has received funding from the Health Research Council of NZ.

    Jamie Brown has received (most recently in 2018) unrestricted funding to study smoking cessation from Pfizer and J&J, which manufacture medically licensed smoking cessation medications.

    Lion Shahab received personal fees from a grant funded by the US National Cancer Institute as part of his role as a member of an external scientific advisory committee outside of the submitted work. He also acted as a paid reviewer for grant awarding bodies and as a paid consultant for health-care companies and, in the past, has received honoraria for talks, an unrestricted research grant, and travel expenses to attend meetings and workshops by producers of smoking cessation medication (Pfizer/Johnson&Johnson).

    Natalie Walker has received personal fees from a grant funded by the US National Cancer Institute as part of her role as a member of the external scientific advisory committee. She is involved in a grant (in-kind) supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. She also received grants from the Health Research Council of NZ and funds from the US National Institute for Health and the Food and Drug Administration tobacco regulatory science grant. She has acted as a paid reviewer for grant awarding bodies. She has no financial links with tobacco companies, e-cigarette manufacturers, or their representatives.

    Vili Nosa has received funding from the Health Research Council of NZ.

    – ref. Quitting the quit-aid: people trying to stop vaping nicotine need more support – here are some strategies to help – https://theconversation.com/quitting-the-quit-aid-people-trying-to-stop-vaping-nicotine-need-more-support-here-are-some-strategies-to-help-259899

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Names Dr. Dean Burke as Incoming DCH Commissioner

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced he will appoint Dr. Dean Burke to serve as Commissioner of the Department of Community Health, effective August 1, following current Commissioner Russel Carlson’s announcement that he has accepted a position in the private sector.

    “Marty, the girls, and I want to thank Dr. Burke for continuing his service to the people of our state in this new leadership position,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Given his extensive background in medicine and healthcare policy, he is uniquely qualified to fill this role at a pivotal time for this important agency. I’m confident he will demonstrate the same level of commitment as commissioner that he has shown throughout his many years of public service.”

    “I also want to thank Russel Carlson for his years of service and many contributions to the Department of Community Health,” continued Governor Kemp. “He has been a knowledgeable leader and was pivotal during the launch of the innovative Georgia Pathways to Coverage program. Our family wishes him, Anne-Marie, and their three children well in this next phase of his career.”

    Dean Burke currently serves as Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Community Health. In this role, Burke advises the leadership team on healthcare policy and quality improvement activities throughout each division. He also directly oversees the State Health Benefit Plan and the State Office of Rural Health.

    Previously, Burke represented Senate District 11 where he served as Chairman of the Insurance and Labor Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee and Ethics Committee, an Ex-Officio of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, the Secretary of Appropriations, and was a member of the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee and the Rules Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Community Health Appropriations sub-committee.

    Prior to his election to the state Senate, Burke served on the Bainbridge City Council for five years and on the Lower Flint Water Council. He also worked as Chief Medical Officer at Memorial Hospital and Manor in Bainbridge and Chaired the Stratus Healthcare Governing Board. He is a former member of the Hospital Authority of the City of Bainbridge and Decatur County.

    Burke graduated Summa Cum Laude from Georgia Southwestern University and went on to graduate from the Medical College of Georgia. He received his specialty training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mercer University School of Medicine and practiced obstetrics and gynecology for 27 years in rural Georgia. Burke and his wife, Thea, have two children and three grandchildren, and they reside in Bainbridge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp Names Dr. Dean Burke as Incoming DCH Commissioner

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced he will appoint Dr. Dean Burke to serve as Commissioner of the Department of Community Health, effective August 1, following current Commissioner Russel Carlson’s announcement that he has accepted a position in the private sector.

    “Marty, the girls, and I want to thank Dr. Burke for continuing his service to the people of our state in this new leadership position,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Given his extensive background in medicine and healthcare policy, he is uniquely qualified to fill this role at a pivotal time for this important agency. I’m confident he will demonstrate the same level of commitment as commissioner that he has shown throughout his many years of public service.”

    “I also want to thank Russel Carlson for his years of service and many contributions to the Department of Community Health,” continued Governor Kemp. “He has been a knowledgeable leader and was pivotal during the launch of the innovative Georgia Pathways to Coverage program. Our family wishes him, Anne-Marie, and their three children well in this next phase of his career.”

    Dean Burke currently serves as Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Community Health. In this role, Burke advises the leadership team on healthcare policy and quality improvement activities throughout each division. He also directly oversees the State Health Benefit Plan and the State Office of Rural Health.

    Previously, Burke represented Senate District 11 where he served as Chairman of the Insurance and Labor Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee and Ethics Committee, an Ex-Officio of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, the Secretary of Appropriations, and was a member of the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee and the Rules Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Community Health Appropriations sub-committee.

    Prior to his election to the state Senate, Burke served on the Bainbridge City Council for five years and on the Lower Flint Water Council. He also worked as Chief Medical Officer at Memorial Hospital and Manor in Bainbridge and Chaired the Stratus Healthcare Governing Board. He is a former member of the Hospital Authority of the City of Bainbridge and Decatur County.

    Burke graduated Summa Cum Laude from Georgia Southwestern University and went on to graduate from the Medical College of Georgia. He received his specialty training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mercer University School of Medicine and practiced obstetrics and gynecology for 27 years in rural Georgia. Burke and his wife, Thea, have two children and three grandchildren, and they reside in Bainbridge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OCEANIA/PAPUA NEW GUINEA – Resignation and appointment of the Bishop of Alotau-Sideia

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Monday, 7 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the Diocese of Alotau-Sideia (Papua New Guinea), presented by His Exc. Msgr. Rolando Crisostomo Santos, C.M. The Holy Father has appointed the Rev. Fr. Jacek Piotr Tendej, C.M., currently Rector of the Holy Spirit Seminary, Bomana (Port Moresby) as Bishop of Alotau-Sideia (Papua New Guinea).His Exc. Msgr. Jacek Piotr Tendej, C.M., was born on 26 June 1963 in Handzlówka, Łańcut (Poland). After his perpetual profession in the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians), he obtained a Master in Moral Theology from the Pontifical Academy of Theology in Krakow, a Licentiate in Educational Sciences from the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome and a Doctorate in Pedagogy from the Akademia Pedagogiczma im. Kaomisji Edukacji Narodowej in Krakow.He was ordained a priest on May 25, 1991.He has held the following positions: Primary School Teacher in Zakopane, Poland (1991-1995); High School Teacher in Krakow, Poland (1995-1997); Teacher and Chaplain at St. Stanislaus Kostka in Brooklyn, New York, USA (2000); Youth Educator at the Fr. Siemaszko Foundation in Krakow (2001-2002); Professor of Educational Sciences at the Theological Institute of the Pontifical University John Paul II in Krakow (2001-2013). Since 2014, he has been Rector of the Holy Spirit Seminary, Bomana (Port Moresby). (EG) (Agenzia Fides, 7/7/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Call for stronger BRICS, G20 synergy to champion developing nations

    Source: Government of South Africa

    By Gabi Khumalo

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – President Cyril Ramaphosa says Brazil’s leadership of BRICS and COP30, together with South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, provides a unique opportunity to send a strong signal of unity and solidarity in support of the rights and interests of developing economy countries.

    “Our concurrent leadership of these bodies must emphasise the pressing need to close the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) implementation gap and the climate ambition gap and ensure that just transitions pathways leave no one behind,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He was delivering a keynote address during the “Environment, COP30 and Global Health” session of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Monday.

    The President highlighted that BRICS – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – was a key platform to shaping a new model of multilateral cooperation based on equity, sustainability and inclusive development. 

    He called for the bloc to be used to drive climate-resilient development across Africa and the Global South.

    President Ramaphosa underscored the importance of using BRICS’ collective voice to advance reforms to modernise multilateral development bank mandates and ensure they better reflect the voices and priorities of developing countries.

    He called for scaled-up concessional financing for climate action to catalyse investments in early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, community-led adaptation, and people-centred just transition pathways.

    “At the same time, we need to drive the global health agenda towards inclusive, equitable, innovative, and sustainable health solutions. Global health financing is being severely impacted by the substantial and sudden withdrawals of official development assistance.

    “Many of the programmes that were supported through this assistance were for disease elimination and targeted towards the most vulnerable populations, like young women and girls, children and adolescents,” the President said.

    While acknowledging the countries great strides made towards Tuberculosis, Malaria and HIV elimination, through the support of organisations like the Global Fund, President Ramaphosa warned these gains are being threatened by political attention and reduced financing.

    As the co-host of the Global Fund’s 8th replenishment campaign together with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Ramaphosa called on countries, businesses and the wider donor community to contribute to the fund in the interests of global health security.

    “If we achieve the target of US$18 billion for the 2027 to 2029 cycle, it is estimated that the Global Fund can save 23 million lives, reduce the combined mortality rate by another 64% relative to 2023 levels, and prevent around 400 million infections.”

    He reiterated that investing in the Global Fund was also an investment in health system strengthening and universal health care, especially for vulnerable countries in the Global South.

    “As we confront these and other development challenges, BRICS needs to be at the forefront of a new inclusive multilateralism. Let us use our growing voice to advance a global order that improves the lives of all the world’s people and safeguards the planet for future generations,” the President said.

    The two-day summit, held from 6 to 7 July 2025, highlighted the ongoing humanitarian impact of Israeli military action in Gaza and in conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Iran; and advocated for the sustainable resolution of conflicts through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue, and a commitment to the United Nations Charter.

    It also explored ways of expanding tangible trade, tourism, investment, and financial cooperation within BRICS and with BRICS partner countries. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Appoints Interim Economic Development Director

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Appoints Interim Economic Development Director

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Maureen Larsen to serve as the Interim Director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED).

    Larsen currently serves as General Counsel to the Governor and as Deputy Director of the Policy Research Office. Larsen will transition from her current role to the interim role on Monday, July 21. 

    She earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Vermont. 

    Governor Pillen thanks Director K.C. Belitz for his service. Belitz’s final day with the state is Friday, July 18.

    MIL OSI USA News –