While we have been focusing on the weather emergencies here in New Zealand, COVID-19 is still very much around and we are hearing constant reports about the debilitating condition known as long Covid.

Now, a Californian cord blood regenerative therapeutics company is about to enter phase two of clinical trials using umbilical cord blood stem cell therapy on Post-Covid Syndrome (PCS) patients. Symptoms of PCS include breathlessness, persistent cough, fatigue, pain, brain fog, anxiety, depression, palpitations, dizziness, weakness, and sleep problems. You can find out more about the trials here.

A first-of-its-kind study is underway to see if cord blood cells are effective in preventing premature newborns from developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) which is relatively common in preterm infants.

BPD is a breathing disorder in premature infants where the infants’ lungs become irritated and do not develop normally. It occurs most often in low-weight infants born more than two months early.  Find out about the trial here.

Did you know that celebrations can help your health and wellbeing?

But – the celebrations need to include 3 key elements, which according to the research published in the Journal of Public Policy & Marketing are eating and drinking, gathering together, and marking positive life events. These three elements together create an increased sense of social support which is associated with positive health and wellbeing outcomes.

The authors of the study note that while the first two elements are present in most celebrations, including the third element – intentionally recognising positive events and achievements – is key to maximising benefits to wellbeing.

Additionally, they revealed that as long as the three elements are met, virtual gatherings also increase perceived social support and so can provide wellbeing benefits.

See the full story here.

As March is NZ Glaucoma Awareness Month, it’s timely to recognise that around 2% of New Zealanders over 40 years of age have glaucoma –  a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve.

Now, stem cells are being investigated as a possible treatment. Read more about this research here.