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The Legacy of Lucy: Tracing Human Origins

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The Legacy of Lucy: Tracing Human Origins

Harshitha Chaganti
February 2025

It all began with a woman–Lucy, the ancient ancestor whose discovery reshaped our entire understanding of evolution. While she might’ve not been the first hominin to walk the Earth, her remarkably well preserved remains provided the first ground breaking evidence of early bipedalism, confirming that our ancestors walked upright long before they developed large brains. Unearthed in 1974 in Ethiopia’s Afar region, she was named after “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by The Beatles, which played in the background as scientists celebrated their find. Lucy’s skeleton became a key piece in the puzzle of human evolution, cementing Africa’s role as the cradle of humankind and sparking a wave of research that continues to this day.

Lucy’s skeleton, which was about 40% complete, revealed critical information about early hominins. Her anatomical structure confirmed that Australopithecus afarensis was fully bipedal, meaning that walking on two legs evolved before larger brain development occurred. This challenged earlier theories that intelligence was the first major evolutionary shift. Instead, Lucy demonstrated that bipedalism allowed early hominins to free their hands for tool use, food gathering, and social interactions.

Her discovery also arrived at a crucial turning point in paleoanthropology. “Lucy’s discovery came at a very important moment in paleoanthropology, when there was beginning to be greater public awareness that Africa is the cradle of humankind,” said Dr. Ebeth Sawchuk, Associate Curator of Human Evolution, in A Groundbreaking Discovery Turns 50: Celebrating the Story of Lucy. Before Lucy, many still clung to outdated ideas that human evolution had stronger roots in other parts of the world. However, as highlighted by the Institute of Human Origins at Arizona State University, Lucy provided irrefutable fossil evidence that early human ancestors originated in Africa, reinforcing the continent’s role in our evolutionary story.

Lucy’s discovery not only revolutionized our understanding of human evolution but also played a pivotal role in advancing research on women’s biology. Her remarkably preserved skeleton provided crucial insights into the anatomical structure of early hominins, including key differences in pelvic shape and locomotion that shed light on childbirth and reproductive adaptations in human ancestors. By studying Lucy and other female hominin fossils, scientists have gained a deeper understanding of how biological and evolutionary pressures shaped the development of female physiology, influencing everything from bipedalism to maternal health in modern humans.

Lucy’s influence reaches far beyond the realm of science—her discovery has shaped anthropology, philosophy, and even our understanding of what it means to be human. She stands as a reminder to us that all humans are linked by a lineage that stretches back millions of years. From the African plains where she once walked to the intricate societies we inhabit today.

Today, cutting-edge technologies like DNA analysis, artificial intelligence, and 3D fossil reconstruction are shedding new light on our origins. As ongoing discoveries continue to refine our understanding of human evolution, they also highlight the crucial role of women in shaping our species’ history—from the reproductive adaptations of early hominins to the impact of maternal health on survival. While research continues to evolve, one thing remains certain—Lucy’s story was only the beginning.

References

[1] Alger, A. (2024, November 24). An Iconic Discovery: Celebrating the Story of Lucy. Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Retrieved February 14, 2025, from https://www.cmnh.org/learn/science-blog/2024/11/24/a-groundbreaking-discovery-turns-50-celebrating-the-story-of-lucy

[2] Hendry, L., & Wilson, M. (n.d.). Australopithecus afarensis, Lucy’s species. Natural History Museum. Retrieved February 14, 2025, from https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/australopithecus-afarensis-lucy-species.html

[3] Lucy’s Story | Institute of Human Origins. (n.d.). Institute of Human Origins. Retrieved February 14, 2025, from https://iho.asu.edu/about/lucys-story

From Struggle to Strength: Healing and Embracing Chemo Curls After Cancer

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From Struggle to Strength: Healing and Embracing Chemo Curls After Cancer

Tanvir Bhamra
February 2025

Unfortunately, one of the most common diseases can be the most destructive; cancer is known as the rapid and uncontrolled growth of mutated cells, and it can happen anywhere in the body. Its risk factors can range from unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as a poor diet and harmful habits, to family history. The experience of having cancer is traumatic in itself, it is not something a person can simply leave behind, as it follows people around like a shadow–survivors would have to learn how to grow and heal from it.

As survivors navigate the challenges of recovery, their bodies undergo various changes—some expected, others surprising. One of the most visible transformations occurs with hair regrowth, revealing an unexpected side effect of chemotherapy: chemo curls.

This occurs because chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles. However, many cancer survivors experience a fascinating phenomenon after treatment—when their hair grows back, it often has a completely different texture. Straight hair may turn curly, thick hair may become finer, and some even find their hair changes in color. This transformation is known as “chemo curls.” These curls can range from loose waves to tight ringlets, even if the individual had completely straight hair before treatment. The degree of curliness varies from person to person and the amount of time chemotherapy was given. The hair’s new texture may not be permanent, but for some, chemo curls remain for years after recovery.^[3]

The exact cause of chemo curls isn’t fully understood, but researchers believe that changes in hair texture occur due to the way chemotherapy affects hair follicles:^[3]

Disruption of the hair growth cycle: Chemotherapy forces hair follicles into a dormant phase, causing hair loss. When treatment ends, hair follicles begin regenerating, but the process may not return to normalcy immediately.
Damage to follicle structure: The chemicals used in chemotherapy can alter the structure of hair follicles. If they become slightly misshapen, hair can grow in a different texture.
Changes in protein bonds: Hair texture is largely determined by keratin, a protein in hair strands. The way keratin bonds form during regrowth may be altered after chemotherapy, leading to curls or waves.

For many, the return of hair is a significant milestone in their recovery, symbolizing a step towards healing. However, the unexpected change in texture can be both surprising and challenging. Some individuals embrace their new curls as a sign of resilience, while others struggle to adapt. People may feel excited at having hair again but frustrated as they navigate caring for a new and unfamiliar texture.

Managing chemo curls requires a different hair care approach post-chemo hair is often sensitive and fragile. Therefore, gentle, hydrating products are recommended. Moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and curl-enhancing creams can maintain healthy curls. Additionally, avoiding heat styling and using satin pillowcases can reduce frizz and breakage.^[2]

The journey through cancer is not just about survival but also about healing and adaptation. Chemo curls, though unexpected, serve as a testament to the resilience of the human body. Whether lasting a few months or years, they represent a new chapter in a survivor’s life. With the right care, mindset, and overall support, individuals can embrace their experiences and continue moving forward with strength and confidence.

References

[1] Donofree, D. (n.d.). Chemo Curls 101: What they are & How to Care for Them. AnaOno. https://www.anaono.com/blogs/dressing-room/chemo-curls-101-what-they-are-how-to-care-for-them?srsltid=AfmBOopSf7LF8tAbw_UXqwu_uPsOfv-kNCF20iFcPEMYkROQSdofqodl

[2] Hair regrowth and Chemo curls after cancer treatment. (n.d.). John Frieda Hair Care – Frizz, Color & Shampoo. Retrieved February 14, 2025, from https://www.johnfrieda.com/en-uk/blog/hair-care/hair-growth-after-cancer-treatment/

[3] Rishe, J. (2021, September 22). Chemo curls: Cause, duration, hair care, and more. MedicalNewsToday. Retrieved February 5, 2025, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chemo-curls#are-they-permanent

Does Menopause Occurring Later In Life Lead To Better Vascular Health?

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Does Menopause Occurring Later In Life Lead To Better Vascular Health?

Julia Palka
February 2025

Menopause is the dreaded cycle of hormonal imbalance, hot flashes, and discomfort. Women of all ages know it will manifest in various stages, with different symptoms and degrees of abruptness. However, first, we must all face the monthly gift of menstruation, but new findings show that if your body’s natural clock is a little late to the initial onset of menopausal symptoms (55 or older), you may have a significantly decreased risk of cardiovascular events!

According to newly published research from the University of Colorado at Boulder, Women who go through menopause at later ages in life have healthier blood vessels than women who go through it earlier. The research, published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation Research¹ arrived just in time for February, which is Women’s Heart Health Month. The findings can help pave the way to new research and advancements in therapies and treatments aimed at reducing heart disease, the leading cause of death in women.

The new insights show that females who stop menstruating at 55 or older are suggested to have a significantly lower risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular events during their postmenopausal years over women who stop menstruation below 55 years of age. To support this claim, studies write that women 55 or older are actually 20% less likely to develop ailments like heart disease than those 54 and younger. Sanna Darvish, a PhD candidate in the Department of Integrative Physiology at the University of Colorado at Boulder is part of a study assessing the vascular health of 92 women and how well their brachial artery dilates with increased blood flow. Darvish and her colleagues also measured the women’s mitochondrial health in relation to the cells lining the women’s blood vessels. The mitochondria, which is considered the powerhouse of energy in the human body, helped the researchers determine what molecules were present in the women’s blood streams.

The studyproved that all the postmenopausal women had significantly worse function in their arteries than women who had not yet experienced menopause³. This is because, as women age, they produce less nitric oxide, a chemical compound that helps prevent plaque build up and stiffness as it dilates the blood vessels. The mitochondria in the cells lining the blood vessels also become more dysfunctional with age and generate free radicals; highly reactive and unstable molecules produced naturally by the human body.

When women go through menopause, the age related decline in cardiovascular health is accelerated. However, the 10% of women who experience a late onset of menopausal symptoms are seemingly less affected by this predicament. Darvish’s study found that vascular function was only 24% worse in the women who experienced menopause later in life compared to the premenopausal women. In contrast those in the normal onset stage had a 51% decline in vascular health. The differences between the groups occurred 5 years or more after the women went through menopause, where remarkably the late onset group had a reported 44% better vascular function than the normal onset group.

The success of maintaining better vascular health in the late onset group was linked to the women’s better functioning of mitochondria, which decreased the amount of free radicals produced. The circulating blood in the late onset group also generated more favorable levels of different lipid metabolites in their blood. Darvash and her team will next study how early onset menopause might impact heart health and how certain nutritional supplements marketed as targeting free radicals in the blood vessels may reduce heart disease in women at higher risks. Future research is still necessary to solidify the gaps between the studies currently published, and how and if all women will experience the same prognosis. John Hopkins Medicine says; If cardiovascular disease runs strongly in the family, it’s also important that you see a cardiologist to further assess the likelihood of having cardiovascular disease and to optimize treatment. ² In summary, the important research provided from the University of Colorado at Boulder suggests that women who experience menopause at 55 or older have healthier blood vessels and a 20% lower risk of heart disease compared to those with earlier menopause. This is linked to better mitochondrial function, reduced free radicals, and improved vascular health, highlighting potential new avenues for cardiovascular disease prevention in women.

References:

Darvish, S., et al. (2025). Preservation of vascular endothelial function in late-onset postmenopausal women. Circulation Research. https://doi.org/10.1161/circresaha.124.325639

Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Menopause and the cardiovascular system. Retrieved February 14, 2025, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/menopause-and-the-cardiovascular-system#:~:text=Plus%2C%20studies%20that%20have%20followed,normal%20age%20(around%2050)

News-Medical. (2025, February 4). Late menopause linked to better vascular health in women. News-Medical. Retrieved from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250204/Late-menopause-linked-to-better-vascular-health-in-women.aspx

Understanding Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Understanding Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Steven Shin
February 2025

Pregnancy is thought of as a joyful experience, but for some women, it can bring life-threatening health challenges. One of the challenges is Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a form of heart failure that occurs during the final stages of pregnancy or in the postpartum period.¹ Recent research has revealed new information in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of PPCM to help women worldwide.

What is PPCM?

PPCM affects approximately 1 in 1,500 to 2,000 pregnancies globally with nonspecific symptoms like shortness of breath, exhaustion, and swelling¹. Crucial interventions or treatment are delayed because these symptoms are often dismissed as normal parts of pregnancy. In PPCM, the heart’s left ventricle weakens and impairs its function. While early treatment results in recovery, undiagnosed or untreated PPCM can lead to persistent heart failure or death³.

Research showed that the hormone prolactin, commonly associated with breastfeeding, plays a significant role in PPCM. In affected women, prolactin is broken down into a harmful material that damages blood vessels and leads to heart failure. Researchers at the Hannover Medical School found that the drug bromocriptine which is traditionally used to suppress lactation can block this harmful effect and promote heart recovery when used for heart failure therapy³. The safety and efficacy of bromocriptine showed that it can significantly improve maternal cardiac health without increasing the risk of complications such as blood clots². A study based on a global PPCM registry of 500+ patients supports bromocriptine as a recommended treatment for PPCM².

New Hope for Subsequent Pregnancies

Historically, women recovering from PPCM were advised against future pregnancies due to the high risk of relapse or worsening heart function. However, new research suggests a more optimistic outlook. A study based on data from the Global PPCM Registry found that even women with mild residual heart failure could safely carry another pregnancy under medical supervision².

This represents a major shift that allows women to expand their families without undue fear. Key to this success is interdisciplinary care by cardiologists, obstetricians, and maternal-fetal medicine specialists who ensure both mother and child are monitored closely¹.

PPCM’s impact is not uniform across the globe. A 20-year population study emphasized significant disparities in PPCM incidence and discussed higher rates reported in Black populations compared to White populations¹. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted healthcare strategies and awareness campaigns in disproportionately affected communities.

Access to specialized care also varies widely between high-income and low-income regions. In many low-resource settings, limited awareness means that PPCM often goes undetected until it progresses to a critical stage³. International registries and collaborations are vital in bridging this gap by providing data and resources to improve diagnosis and treatment worldwide³.

Patient Outcomes and Future Directions

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reported that 6% of PPCM patients die within six months of diagnosis, with 42% of these deaths attributed to heart failure and 30% to sudden cardiac arrest³. However, timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly reduce these figures. Advanced imaging techniques, the use of cardiac biomarkers, and continued research into genetic predispositions are important steps to improve outcomes¹.

Additionally, researchers are exploring how to predict PPCM risk in future pregnancies more accurately. Early identification of at-risk women could allow for tailored monitoring and preventative therapies that potentially reduce the burden of this condition². Thanks to research and the dedication of specialized care teams, women diagnosed with PPCM now have access to better treatments and a brighter future. From innovative therapies like bromocriptine to improved management of subsequent pregnancies, advancements in PPCM care are empowering women to navigate motherhood against all odds. Despite the challenges, with early diagnosis and interdisciplinary care, affected women can embrace both recovery and the possibility of growing their families.

Reference

[1] Arany, Z., & Elkayam, U. (2016). Peripartum cardiomyopathy. Circulation, 133(14), 1397– 1409. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.116.018094

[2] Sliwa, K., Bauersachs, J., van der Meer, P., Petrie, M. C., Hilfiker-Kleiner, D., Hamdan, R., & Seferovic, P. (2025). Pregnancies in women after peripartum cardiomyopathy: The global European Society of Cardiology EuroObservational Research Programme Peri-Partum Cardiomyopathy Registry. European Heart Journal. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf006

[3] Van der Meer, P., Sliwa, K., Bauersachs, J., Hilfiker-Kleiner, D., & Petrie, M. C. (2024). Bromocriptine treatment and outcomes in peripartum cardiomyopathy: The EORP PPCM registry. European Heart Journal. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae559

Bio-Hacking Our Nervous System: Starting Our Day Right

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Bio-Hacking Our Nervous System: Starting Our Day Right

Amy Musto
February 2025

Most of us are desperate for just a few more minutes of sleep, but let’s be honest, you’re already awake and sleepily hoping that an extra 5 minutes in bed isn’t going to help. Imagine if you allowed yourself 10 minutes in the morning to gently wake up so your nervous system can have a head start? This approach would give you a better start to your day, more energy, and help soothe aches and pains.

As a yoga teacher, nurse, mom, and animal caretaker, I need these 10 minutes in the morning. My practice is what sets me up for the day. There are moments when I hear an unpleasant sound coming from my dog and I need to jump up and race him out the door. My nervous system is on red alert for the day, not a good start.

This easy guide is designed to be done in 10 minutes and you can certainly race through this and finish in half the time, but that is only going to charge up your nervous system and defeat the purpose. I’ve included modifications that hopefully will meet your individual needs.

These stretches can be done while sitting on the edge of your bed, or in a chair or sitting cross-legged on the floor. You choose where your practice happens on a day to day basis.

Start lengthening your spine by sitting up tall. Imagine there is a string attached to the top of your head and someone is gently pulling it up towards the ceiling. Pause here for a full inhale and exhale.

On your next inhale lift your right arm up towards the ceiling and hold while taking three deep breaths. Allow your gaze to fall towards the floor or float to the ceiling, or anywhere in between. Let the right arm fall back to your lap.

Repeat with three deep breaths while holding your left arm to the ceiling.

If lifting your arm is not comfortable, try bending your arm at the elbow until you are comfortable. If lifting your arm at all is not right for you, focus on sitting quietly with your eyes closed, picturing yourself lifting your arm while taking three rounds of breaths.

On your next inhale let your belly fill up with air, and as you exhale imagine pulling your belly button towards your back.

Once you’ve done this, hold this feeling and twist your upper body to the right and hold for three deep breaths.

After the third round, release and come back to center. Pause for one full round of breaths.

First inhale, and as you exhale, pull that belly button back in and twist the upper body to the other side for three rounds of breaths.

Come back to the center and relax. If twisting is too much for you at the moment, sit, breathe and imagine yourself moving into the twist.

Lastly, on your next inhale, lift your arms up like you were getting ready to hug a crowd of people. As you exhale, bring your arms back and give yourself a hug. Inhale with the arms wide open, and as you exhale switch the positions of your arms so that the opposite arm lays on top. Inhale arms go wide, lift that chest, put a smile on your face even if you don’t feel like it. Exhale again while bringing your arms back into a hug. You can stop here, but if you have more time and it feels good, why not do a few more. Again, if this is too much for your body, close your eyes, breath and imagine yourself moving through these motions

Now you’ve done your 10 minute routine, you have moved your spine in 6 different ways allowing energy to fill and flow. Next on your To Do list is to go out and conquer your day and

be the best version of yourself.

Namaste.

Fertility Preservation: What is oocyte cryopreservation and why has it increased in popularity?

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Fertility Preservation: What is oocyte cryopreservation and why has it increased in popularity?

Chaimaa Riad
February 2025

What is Oocyte Cryopreservation?

Oocyte cryopreservation is also known as egg freezing. This is a procedure in which a woman’s eggs are retrieved, frozen and stored to preserve her ability to conceive later in life, while she is still of reproductive age.^[1] The eggs are specifically extracted from the body before their fertilization. Once they are ready to be used, the eggs undergo a thawing process to be transferred into the uterus and become fertilized for pregnancy.^[1] Oocyte cryopreservation is considered a form of preventative healthcare.^[2]

The first successful pregnancy recorded via egg freezing was in 1986. ^[3] Oocyte cryopreservation began to combat possible infertility in women with medical conditions like cancer, in which chemotherapy and pelvic radiation could damage their reproductive organs, or autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus. ^[4] However, there has been a large increase in the number of egg freezing procedures in the last six years for more social reasons. An increasing number of women have decided to do this procedure for financial, professional, or simply personal reasons. Studies have shown that many women believed that becoming pregnant before 35 would negatively impact their careers. ^[5] Women have been especially inclined to do this procedure with improvements in medical technology and even the use of AI in improving the freezing and thawing process for optimal fertilization. ^[4]

There are multiple risks of oocyte cryopreservation. Short-term adverse effects include general symptoms such as nausea, headache, irritability, chest pain, pelvic pain, and oliguria (decreased urine output). ^[2] Additionally, there are increased risks that come with assisted reproductive techniques (ART), which include preterm birth. This is one of the more severe risks, which also carries the potential risk of cerebral palsy. ^[5] Furthermore, women who undergo oocyte cryopreservation are more likely to be older. As women age, the complications of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, ectopic pregnancy, and the need for a cesarean section tend to increase. ^[5]

It is also important to consider both the emotional and financial impacts of this procedure on women. This process is invasive and often requires women to undergo multiple cycles of egg freezing.^[3]These procedures can cost anywhere between $5,000-$10,000 per cycle. ^[4]

It is crucial for women to connect to a team of specialists who can thoroughly explain the benefits, drawbacks, and risks of the procedure. Additionally, counselors are essential to support women throughout the process. ^[2] In essence, egg freezing allows women the opportunity to have more flexibility in their family planning. There are ongoing advancements in reproductive medicine that will allow women to preserve fertility based on their own timeline. The most crucial factors to consider when deciding to freeze eggs would be the financial and emotional costs, as well as the possible risks, both long term and short term.

References:

[1] Egg freezing. UCLA Health. (n.d.). https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/obgyn/fertility/egg-freezing

[2] Katsani, D., Paraschou, N., Panagouli, E., Tsarna, E., Sergentanis, T. N., Vlahos, N., & Tsitsika, A. (2024, January 10). Social Egg freezing-a trend or modern reality?. Journal of clinical medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10816669/

[3] Walker, Z., Lanes, A., & Ginsburg, E. (2022, January 7). Oocyte cryopreservation review: Outcomes of medical oocyte cryopreservation and planned oocyte cryopreservation – reproductive biology and endocrinology. BioMed Central. https://rbej.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12958-021-00884-0

[4] Dimitriadis, I., (2024, February 20). Freezing Eggs: Advances in Fertility Treatment. Mass General Brigham. https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/what-is-cryopreservation#:~:text=In%201984%2C%20the%20first%20baby,longer%20considered%20an%20experimental%20procedure.

[5] Varlas, V. N., Bors, R. G., Albu, D., Penes, O. N., Nasui, B. A., Mehedintu, C., & Pop, A. L. (2021, July 30). Social freezing: Pressing pause on fertility. International journal of environmental research and public health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8345795/

The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem in Young Women

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The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem in Young Women

Kavya Kumar
February 2025

Social media has become a significant part of young women’s lives, offering ways to connect, find community, and learn new things (like how to perfectly contour your nose using only a potato and some glitter — because, priorities). However, its widespread use also raises concerns about how it affects body image and self-esteem. The often unrealistic portrayals of beauty found on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X can contribute to negative self-perception and a distorted view of reality.

Idealized Images in the Media

One major issue is the constant exposure to idealized images. These images are edited, filtered, and enhanced to present an illusion of perfection. This can cause young women to constantly compare themselves with what they see online, leading to feelings of incompetence and dissatisfaction with their own appearance.^[1] These feelings are significant risk factors for eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.^[2] Essentially, scrolling on your cell phone can lead to some serious “ugh” moments, as well as the sudden urge to throw your phone across the room in frustration — resist the urge!

The Pressure to Perform (and the Never-Ending Quest for Likes)

The performative nature of social media can make things even worse. People often carefully craft their online personas, leading to the false impression that everyone — except you — is perfect. This can pressure users to maintain an impeccable image, causing unnecessary anxiety and stress. Constantly seeking likes, comments, and followers can become a way to seek validation, tying self-worth to external approval and validation.^[3] It’s like a never-ending popularity contest, and the prize is…well, more likes. Which, let’s be honest, doesn’t pay the rent.

The Positive Side of Social Media

Admittedly, social media isn’t all bad. Some platforms offer supportive communities and promote positivity! In particular, movements that celebrate body diversity and challenge unrealistic beauty stereotypes can be really empowering. You can also use social media to find information and connect with like-minded individuals. The key is to be aware of the content you’re consuming without letting it consume you.

Learning to be Media-Savvy

Especially in this day and age, developing media literacy skills is crucial in order to navigate the digital world safely. Young women need to learn how to evaluate the images and messages they see online. This includes recognizing altered photos and understanding that social media usually shows a very selective view of reality. Learning to spot a bad Photoshop job is a valuable life skill, trust me.

It’s also important to develop a strong sense of self that doesn’t depend on what others think. The opinions of others really don’t matter because at the end of the day, you are beautiful just the way you are. Yes, you. You’re a masterpiece in progress, a unique blend of awesome, and no filter or validation-seeking behavior can change that.

Now, if you want to follow a specific diet or do an intense workout, go for it! But, and this is a huge but, only do it because you want to. Not because of some influencer’s impeccable abs or what your friends are doing. Do it because it makes you feel good and it makes you happy, and not because you’re trying to fit into someone else’s mold. Every decision we make for ourselves should come from a place of self-care, guided by what truly drives us and brings joy to our lives.

Sometimes, the best “like” is the warmth of the sun on your skin, the feel of the wind running through your hair, or simply checking something off your to-do list. Take a break from your phone, go outside, and rediscover the world around you — a beautiful, unfiltered, and unPhotoshopped experience awaits.

References

[1] Prichard, I., Tiggemann, M., & Slater, A. (2012). The effects of viewing ultra-thin media images on women’s body image, mood, and self-esteem. Body Image, 9(1), 87–96.

[2] Smolak, L., & Levine, M. P. (1996). A cognitive-developmental model of the development of body image and eating disorders. Eating Disorders, 4(3), 165–180.

[3] Hunt, J., Marx, R., Lipson, C., & Young, J. (2018). No More FOMO: Reducing Social Media Envy Through Awareness. Computers in Human Behavior, 79, 265–272.

Representation in Cosmetics: Exploring the Cosmetic Industry’s Impact on Women’s Self-Acceptance

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Representation in Cosmetics: Exploring the Cosmetic Industry’s Impact on Women’s Self-Acceptance

Kashish Patel
February 2025

Beauty standards have always influenced the way women perceive themselves. During the Renaissance, beautiful women were portrayed to have soft curves and pale skin. This idealistic image of the beauty standard was represented through portraits and literature, exhibiting what “beauty” is supposed to look like. In modern day, the constant exposure to social media and advertisements has only reinforced beauty ideals, influencing women’s self-perception and mental health. While persisting beauty standards seem to define beauty, studies suggest that no absolute definition of beauty exists.[1] The standards of beauty are described to be determined through the socialization processes and media influences that define what is considered attractive.

Teenagers

Studies have found that the lack of representation for natural features have resulted in the standard for beauty to be extremely narrow for women and teen girls. This lack of visibility has had detrimental effects; teen girls faced an increase in low self-esteem leading to mental health and body image issues. According to a study in 2003, eating disorders among teen girls have only increased over 50 years with 1% to 5% of adolescents possessing traits for bulimia nervosa. The analysis of this data concluded the effects of mass media and preexisting body image issues.[2] Teenagers are especially vulnerable to the influences of the cosmetic industry as during this time of their life, they struggle to navigate self-identity while constantly being surrounded by the beauty standard portrayed on social media.

Women of Color

Women of color have long been pushed aside by the cosmetic industry. Historically, the beauty standard has prioritized Eurocentric ideals while failing to provide proper representation for diverse skin tones, facial features, and hair types.

In a recent scandal, the makeup brand Youthforia is facing major backlash. The company first faced backlash in 2023 when it released 15 new shades of foundation that were not inclusive of all skin tones. Despite releasing 10 new shades of foundation to combat this backlash, there was an even bigger uproar. Influencer Golloria George who often reviews beauty brands’ darkest shades posted a video on Youthforia’s shade 600, the darkest shade in the line which was pure black and was hard to differentiate from black paint. [3]

In an interview with TIME, Golloria shared her thoughts on the entire situation stating, “It was a really weird, surreal, out-of-this-world experience.”

This controversy sheds light on the amount of beauty brands which cater to lighter skin tones and Anglo-Saxon features in general. This blatant disregard for diverse skin tones, especially for women of color makes many women feel unrepresented and unnoticed.

The Response from Beauty Brands

The lack of inclusivity not only fosters insecurities within these groups of women, but recent controversies suggest that the beauty industry remains narrow-minded in assisting all consumers. However, in response to the consumer demand and social activism, many brands have started to make the change by expanding shade color ranges and embracing diverse advertising. Dove, a popular cosmetic company recognized the issues with diversity in their brand.[2] They implemented a movement to include more diversity into advertisements and modeling which received positive feedback from consumers and also raised the company’s revenue by billions.

References

[1]Madan, S., Basu, S., & Ai Ching Lim, E. (2018). Impact of culture on the pursuit of beauty: Evidence from five countries – Shilpa Madan, Shankha Basu, Sharon Ng, Elison Ai Ching Lim, 2018. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1069031X18805493

[2] Castillo Castro, K. (2023). Dove: Shifting Standards and Ideal Self-Perception. The International Trade Journal, 38(1), 91–98. https://doi.org/10.1080/08853908.2023.2279223

[3] II, M. M. (2024). Why beauty brand youthforia is facing backlash. Retrieved from https://time.com/6972800/youthforia-dark-skin-foundation-backlash/

U.S. Withdrawal from The World Health Organization: Everything You Need to Know

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U.S. Withdrawal from The World Health Organization: Everything You Need to Know

Sanya Talwar
February 2025

On January 20th, President Trump signed an executive order that officially declared the beginning of the United States withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision has marked a significant shift in global health governance.

Background on WHO

WHO, established in 1948, is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for improving international public health. It plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to global health crises, setting health standards, and providing medical assistance to areas in need.¹ The United States has been a key member and financial contributor to WHO since its inception post-WW2, underscoring its commitment to global health initiatives. ²

U.S. decision to withdraw from WHO and its implications

The U.S. government, under President Trump’s administration, announced its intention to withdraw from WHO on July 6th, 2020, citing concerns over the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.³ Key points of contention included perceived delays in declaring a public health emergency, alleged lack of transparency from China, and concerns over WHO’s independence from political influence. The decision was framed as part of a broader reassessment of U.S. engagement with international organizations. ⁴

The withdrawal of the United States from WHO has far-reaching implications for global health governance. As the largest financial contributor, the U.S. provided approximately 15% of WHO’s $4.8 billion 2020-2021 budget, including $893 million in voluntary funds for specific programs.⁵ Immediate termination of these payments risked disrupting polio eradication campaigns, HIV/AIDS programs, and emergency response capacities in low-income nations. ⁶

Moreover, the U.S. withdrawal may undermine the collective response to global health challenges. WHO relies on international cooperation to address issues such as pandemics, vaccine distribution, and health equity. The absence of the United States could weaken the organization’s authority and effectiveness, potentially leading to fragmented and less coordinated global health efforts.

Potential consequences

1. Impact on COVID-19 Response: WHO’s ability to coordinate the global response to Covid-19 may be compromised. The U.S. withdrawal could lead to reduced funding for vaccine distribution, research, and support to healthcare systems in vulnerable regions of the world. For example, the WHO-led COVAX initiative, aimed at equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution, faced uncertainty without U.S. participation, potentially exacerbating disparities between high and low-income countries. ⁷

2. Global health security: The base of the United States may create a vacuum in global health leadership, potentially allowing other nations to exert greater influence over WHO’s agenda. This shift could impact the organization’s priorities and decision-making process.

3. Health Equity: WHO’s efforts to address health disparities and promote universal health disparities and promote universal health coverage may be hindered. The U.S. withdrawal could result in reduced funding for programs aimed at improving health outcomes in low and middle-income communities.

4. International Relations: The decision to withdraw from WHO may strain U.S. relations with other nations and international organizations. It could be perceived as a retreat from multilateralism, potentially weakening the United States’ position in global health diplomacy.

The U.S. withdrawal from WHO represents a significant but detrimental development in global health governance. While the decision reflects concern over the organization’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, it also realizes important questions about the future of international cooperation in addressing global health challenges. The implications of this withdrawal are profound, affecting not only WHO’s operational capacity but also the broader landscape of global health security and equity.

References

[1]: World Health Organization. (n.d.). *History of WHO*. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/about/history

[2]: U.S. Department of State. (2020). *U.S. Contributions to the World Health Organization*. Fact Sheet.

[3]: The White House. (2020). *Letter to the United Nations Secretary-General*. July 6, 2020. [4]: Gostin, L. O., & Katz, R. (2020). *The International Health Regulations: The Governing Framework for Global Health Security*. Milbank Quarterly, 94(2).

[5]: World Health Organization. (2020). *Programme Budget 2020–2021*. [6]: Kaiser Family Foundation. (2020). *The U.S. Government and the World Health Organization*.

[7]: Bollyky, T. J., & Bown, C. P. (2020). *The Tragedy of Vaccine Nationalism*. Foreign Affairs.

Understanding the Gender Differences in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

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Understanding the Gender Differences in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Helena Huynh
October 2024

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition typically following exposure to a traumatic event, with symptoms impacting day-to-day functioning, causing the person to re-experience their traumatic event, and affecting overall cognition and mood.^[1]According to the World Health Organization, over half of the global population–a shocking 70% of people–will experience a potentially traumatic event in their lives, with a minority of that population (5.6%) going on to develop PTSD.^[2]However, women are much more likely to develop PTSD, with lifetime prevalence rates being almost three times as frequent for women than for men.^[3]Why does this happen?

Types of Trauma

Women are much more likely to experience high-impact trauma, including sexual-related trauma and sexual assault. The CDC National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey conducted in 2010 found that 18.3% of women in the United States experienced rape at some point in their lives.^[3]That equates to an alarming rate of about 1 in 5 women. Exposure to sexual violence are associated with higher rates of PTSD.^[2]Additionally, women are also more likely to experience sexual abuse at younger ages compared to men.^[3]Trauma in early childhood has a strong impact on overall neurobiological development^[4]and also serves as a risk factor increasing the likelihood of developing PTSD.^[1]

Physiological Responses

Prior research has found several differences when it comes to psychobiological reactions to PTSD^[4]. For one, hormonal responses can potentially play a role in regulating trauma responses. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a neuroendocrine system within the body that regulates responses to stress, has been found to be more sensitive to stress and trauma. Additionally, studies have found that testosterone may possibly work to reduce HPA reactivity.^[5] On top of that, studies have found that women with PTSD are more likely to experience a reduced fear-extinction during the mid-luteal phase of their menstrual cycle, when oestradiol and progesterone levels are lowest.^[5]These hormones are related to cognitive-emotional processes relating to PTSD, and in trauma-exposed women without PTSD, researchers actually found the opposite result.^[5]

Understanding PTSD Symptoms and Comorbidities

When it comes to PTSD symptom expression, males and females tend to experience PTSD in a similar way.^[3]A study found that male and female veterans were about equally likely to report different PTSD symptoms on the PTSD Checklist^[3], a self-report measure looking at PTSD symptoms. However, when it comes to comorbidities, women are much more likely to experience internalizing disorders, including mood and anxiety-related disorders. Men, on the other hand, were much more likely to experience externalizing disorders, including substance abuse.^[3]

Overall, previous research has established a number of differences in the development and prevalence of PTSD in males and females. Given that much of the early research surrounding our knowledge of PTSD revolves around male war veterans^[3], we must continue adding to the literature. Increasing our understanding of why these gender differences develop can inform targeted interventions to ultimately help those who need it.

References

[1] U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health.

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd

[2] World Health Organization. (2024, May 27). Post-traumatic stress disorder. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/post-traumatic-stress-disorder

[3] Vogt, D. (2007, January 1). Va.gov: Veterans Affairs. Research on Women, Trauma and PTSD. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/specific/ptsd_research_women.asp#four

[4] Olff, M. (2017). Sex and gender differences in post-traumatic stress disorder: An update. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 8(sup4).

https://doi.org/10.1080/20008198.2017.1351204

[5] Christiansen, D. M., & Berke, E. T. (2020). Gender- and sex-based contributors to sex differences in PTSD. Current Psychiatry Reports, 22(4).

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-020-1140-y