Author: Richard Parks

A new global study suggests that common practices of chlorinating drinking water could raise the risk of some cancers. The study found a 33% higher chance of bladder cancer and a 15% higher risk of colorectal cancer in people exposed to chlorinated water. Why Chlorine Is Used in Water Chlorine is used in water treatment because it is cheap, effective, and easy to get. It helps kill harmful germs and prevent waterborne diseases. When chlorine was introduced to water supplies in the 1900s, it reduced deadly diseases like cholera and typhoid fever. This increased life expectancy in many countries. But…

Satellites are more than just tools for space exploration; they play a crucial role in monitoring and assessing public health risks. With the help of Earth observation, satellites provide invaluable data that empowers scientists, policymakers, and the general public to take proactive steps in combating environmental health threats. By offering real-time information, these space-based systems are vital for detecting and predicting health hazards caused by environmental factors. The European Union’s Copernicus programme is one of the leading initiatives using satellite technology to study the relationship between environmental conditions and human health. The Copernicus Health Hub, managed by the European Centre…

A new medical breakthrough could offer hope to millions suffering from anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell. This condition, often caused by Covid-19 or other viral infections, has long been considered difficult to treat. However, a promising procedure using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections might restore smell—even for those who lost it years or decades ago. A Simple but Revolutionary Treatment In the United Kingdom, Chrissi Kelly has become the first patient to receive this new treatment. The procedure involves extracting PRP from the patient’s own blood. By using a centrifuge, platelets are separated from red and white blood…

Demonstrations have erupted across the U.S. in response to Elon Musk’s links to Donald Trump. Protesters gathered outside Tesla dealerships in several cities, voicing concerns over the carmaker’s reputation and the potential impact on its sales. Widespread Protests Over Musk’s Government Role On Saturday, groups of demonstrators assembled outside Tesla showrooms in cities such as New York, Seattle, and Kansas City, along with multiple locations in California. Organizers reported protests in dozens of cities, with some drawing crowds of up to 100 people. The protesters expressed frustration over Musk’s role in the U.S. government’s controversial “Department of Government Efficiency,” also…

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a meeting of European leaders. This urgent summit, set for Paris, aims to address growing concerns over the role of the United States in the Ukraine peace talks. Macron’s move comes as many European leaders worry that US President Donald Trump is sidelining them in negotiations. Macron wants to bring together key leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The goal is to ensure Europe’s influence in the talks. European leaders fear that the US could leave them out of discussions with Russia about Ukraine. This could weaken Europe’s position in NATO and…

Many Europeans have tried illegal drugs. Drug habits and health effects vary by country. In 2024, 15% of young adults in the EU used cannabis. About 2.5% used cocaine. This is from a report by the European Commission and OECD. Cannabis use is highest in the Czech Republic, Italy, France, and Spain. It is lowest in Malta, Turkey, and Hungary. Cocaine use is most common in the Netherlands, Spain, and Ireland. Turkey, Portugal, Poland, and Hungary have the lowest rates. Strict drug laws do not stop access, especially for young people. “Heavy penalties impact casual users more than addicts,” says…

Mount Etna, the tallest and most active volcano in Europe, is erupting once again, creating a stunning natural display in Sicily. The eruption, which began on February 11, has drawn attention from locals and travelers alike. The volcano is sending plumes of ash and lava into the sky, making it visible from miles away. The eruption is coming from Mount Etna’s southeast crater, also called Bocca Nuova, meaning “new mouth.” A lava flow stretching over three kilometers has formed, but it has not yet caused major damage. In the past, volcanic ash from Mount Etna has covered nearby towns, disrupting…

U.S. Vice President JD Vance created a storm in Germany by meeting with Alice Weidel, leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, while skipping a meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz. His visit, just nine days before Germany’s federal elections, has drawn criticism from political leaders across Europe. Weidel, co-leader of the anti-immigrant AfD, leads a party that mainstream German political groups refuse to collaborate with due to its far-right stance. Despite this, the AfD continues to gain support, currently polling around 20% and securing a strong position in the upcoming elections. Vance Criticizes Germany’s Political Barriers During his…

German industrial giant Thyssenkrupp has released a financial report that presents a mix of challenges and progress. The company continues to face a tough market but has improved its profitability. The report highlights strategic restructuring, cost-cutting efforts, and rising demand in key sectors. Smaller Losses Despite Lower Revenue Thyssenkrupp reported a net loss of €33 million for the quarter from October to December. This is a big improvement compared to the €305 million loss in the same quarter last year. However, total sales fell to €7.8 billion, down from €8.2 billion in the previous year. The decline was due to…

Unilever, the global consumer goods giant, has made a significant decision to list its ice cream division primarily in Amsterdam. This move is seen as a setback for London’s struggling IPO market and a blow to efforts by the UK government to increase listings on the London Stock Exchange. Unilever’s ice cream division, which includes well-known brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Magnum, Breyers, and Wall’s, will be spun off into a separate entity by the end of 2025, with secondary listings in New York and London. Despite Unilever itself being primarily listed in London, it has chosen Amsterdam as the…