News

A new wave of research underscores the growing appeal of entrepreneurship among mothers, revealing a complex interplay between professional ambition, family responsibilities, and systemic barriers—especially within traditionally demanding fields like medicine. Drawing from a recent report by The Irish Times, women who choose to establish their own businesses cite freedom, better work-life balance, and greater autonomy as top motivations, yet continue to face pronounced hurdles including access to funding, childcare, and lingering cultural biases within the business and medical landscapes (irishtimes.com).

A sweeping review of over 150 scientific publications spanning nearly three decades has spotlighted critical gaps in how men’s involvement in family planning is understood and studied across 23 African nations. The research, led by a team of demographers, reproductive health experts, and population scientists, raises fresh questions about how health systems worldwide—including in Thailand—should rethink the role of men in shaping reproductive choices and outcomes. The findings suggest that involving men meaningfully in family planning discussions and programmes is not only essential for gender equity but also for the long-term success of reproductive health initiatives (The Conversation).

Latest scientific research is dismantling the myth that humans are “bad smellers,” revealing that our sense of smell is not only ancient but deeply intertwined with memory and emotion—a connection far richer than previously thought. This new understanding sheds light on how even a simple whiff of a familiar odor can instantly transport us back in time, evoking powerful memories and emotions, and opens the possibility of harnessing scents in therapeutic, educational, and cultural contexts in Thailand and beyond.

A groundbreaking study from Sweden has provided compelling evidence that the adult human brain continues to generate new neurons well into old age, debunking the long-standing belief that brain cell growth halts after childhood. This discovery, published in the journal Science and highlighted in a recent Gizmodo report, offers new hope for future treatments of neurological and psychological disorders, and reshapes our understanding of the brain’s lifelong potential.

For decades, it was widely believed—taught both in schools and medical textbooks—that the human brain reached its full complement of neurons in early life, and that no new neurons were formed past childhood. While previous studies hinted at ongoing brain cell growth, scientific opinion remained split, with some researchers finding scant evidence for adult neurogenesis and others reporting clear signs. The confusion was particularly acute when it came to humans, since much of the existing evidence came from studies in animals such as mice or pigs.

A groundbreaking study from the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has established a direct link between exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) and an increase in genetic mutations found in lung cancers among individuals who have never smoked—a development with profound implications for global health and for air quality management in Thailand. The newly released research, which represents a significant advance in our understanding of the environmental roots of lung cancer, raises fresh concerns about urban pollution and the invisible risks it poses, particularly for non-smoking populations.

A new analysis in Nature Medicine finds that even small amounts of processed meat can raise the risk of major diseases such as type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and heart disease. The study also highlights concerns about sugar-sweetened beverages and trans fats. For Thailand, where processed foods and street cuisine are common and diets are evolving with urbanization, these findings matter.

Researchers pooled results from more than 60 studies to examine how dietary patterns relate to disease risk. They conclude there is no safe threshold for processed meat, sugary drinks, or trans fats when it comes to chronic illnesses. For example, daily consumption of a single hot dog was associated with an 11% higher risk of type 2 diabetes and a 7% higher risk of colorectal cancer, compared with not eating processed meat. A daily can of soda was linked to an 8% higher risk of type 2 diabetes and a 2% higher risk of ischemic heart disease. While risks rise with greater intake, even small amounts can be harmful. The findings are consistent across multiple data sources, reinforcing a clear message about diet and health.

Prostate cancer, the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among men worldwide, is again in the headlines as global cases continue to rise and new research underscores the urgent need for preventive measures. Recent estimates from the National Cancer Institute forecast more than 300,000 new cases in 2025 alone, marking prostate cancer as an escalating public health challenge not only globally but for Thailand’s aging male population. As medical experts intensify calls for awareness and regular screenings, cutting-edge studies are shining a light on modifiable lifestyle factors that may help stem the tide of this disease.

Prostate cancer is rising globally and in Thailand, making prevention and screening more urgent than ever. With an aging population, Thai men face higher risk, and lifestyle choices can influence disease progression. Early detection is crucial because initial stages often present no symptoms.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland under the bladder that supports male reproductive health. Routine screening matters because early warning signs—blood in urine or semen, pelvic discomfort, difficulty urinating, or erectile changes—usually appear only after the disease has advanced. Regular screening, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams, is advised for men over 50 or those with a family history of prostate cancer.

A high-profile discussion by Charlize Theron about choosing to raise children solo has reignited conversations on solo parenting. In a candid interview, Theron described single motherhood as “one of the healthiest decisions” she has made, emphasizing deliberate parenting and a move away from unhealthy family dynamics. Her comments come amid growing research and stories from other celebrities that challenge old stigmas about women who raise children alone. The global debate matters not only for Hollywood audiences but also for Thai readers as family structures and women’s roles continue to evolve.

A recent study shows that people who dislike exercise can rewire their brains to tolerate and even enjoy physical activity. Using neuroscience and psychology, researchers found that the brain’s response to discomfort can be gradually recalibrated, making regular activity more appealing and sustainable for sedentary individuals. Small, controlled bursts of physical stress shift how effort is perceived, creating a more positive exercise experience.

For Thailand, urban life, long work hours, and screen time contribute to inactivity. With rising non-communicable diseases, understanding how to weave movement into daily routines is crucial for personal health and national goals. The research offers a practical path: retrain the brain’s response to effort so exercise feels less daunting, rather than pushing through pain alone.

A recent MIT-led study has ignited a global conversation about the cognitive impact of artificial intelligence (AI) use in education, warning that reliance on tools like ChatGPT could erode students’ ability to engage in deep, critical thinking and retain ownership of their ideas. The research, which has gained notable attention in international and Thai education circles, strikes at the heart of a rapidly growing dilemma—as AI-generated writing becomes easier and more prevalent, could it make us, in effect, intellectually lazier and less capable over time? (NYT)

New evidence shows alcohol can be more harmful as people age. With Thailand’s senior population rising, families and healthcare workers must rethink drinking guidance for older adults.

Research indicates the same amount of alcohol affects older bodies differently. As people age, they typically have less muscle mass and lower body water, resulting in higher blood alcohol levels after drinking. A senior adviser at a national health institute notes that even a few drinks can cause intoxication in older adults and raise the risk of falls and injuries. This is particularly relevant in Thailand, where many seniors live with family and participate in community gatherings.

Hydration myths spread quickly on social media, but for most healthy Thais, electrolyte powders and salted water aren’t essential. Plain water plus a balanced diet typically meet electrolyte needs, with supplements reserved for particular situations.

The trend mirrors a flood of electrolyte drinks on shelves and in fitness spaces across Thailand. As heat increases and people spend more time outdoors, questions arise about safety, necessity, and the best ways to stay hydrated.

A landmark international study finds younger pupils in a class, often born later in the year, face higher odds of mental health concerns than their older peers. Analyzing health records of more than a million children, the research prompts education systems worldwide, including Thailand, to reconsider strict entry cutoffs that can unintentionally disadvantage students.

Researchers from Norway’s NTNU reviewed health data for children aged 4–17 born between 1991 and 2012. The study shows October–December births—the youngest in many classrooms—have higher rates of ADHD and related neuropsychiatric conditions compared with January–March births. The magnitude of risk varies with prematurity, with ADHD diagnoses among the youngest students rising by about 20–80 percent. A lead neonatology consultant notes a meaningful relative age effect in childhood mental health.

A recent MIT-led study is fueling global debate on AI’s role in learning. As tools like ChatGPT become easier to use, concerns grow that students may rely on AI at the expense of deep understanding and retention. Thai educators and policymakers are watching closely as AI-assisted writing becomes more common in schools.

In the MIT experiment, 54 students wrote essays under three conditions: independent thinking, traditional search, and generative AI assistance. Essays produced with AI showed precise references but a strikingly uniform argument and structure. Notably, only 17% of AI-assisted students could accurately quote their own work later, while those in traditional and search groups demonstrated stronger recall. The study suggests AI might outsource cognitive effort, leaving comprehension behind.

The explosive rise in popularity of AI-powered chatbots such as ChatGPT is sparking rigorous new research into how these digital assistants may be fundamentally altering the way our brains work. As Thai students, professionals, and families increasingly turn to generative AI for tasks ranging from essay writing to bedtime stories, urgent questions are emerging about whether this convenience comes with hidden cognitive costs.

For Thais who have rapidly adopted generative AI in education and everyday life, this inquiry has special relevance. Thailand’s government and universities have promoted digital literacy and the integration of AI in classrooms, aiming to boost competitiveness in the regional economy. Yet concerns are growing: is this powerful technology sharpening our minds, or is it making us passive consumers of machine-generated knowledge?

Charlize Theron, acclaimed actress and mother, recently described her journey as a single mother as “one of the healthiest decisions” she has made, stirring conversations about single parenthood by choice worldwide. In a candid interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Theron — who adopted her daughters in 2012 and 2015 — discussed breaking away from unhealthy family cycles, making deliberate parenting choices, and confronting persistent social stigma against women who raise children alone (Business Insider). Her frankness comes as new research, cultural trends, and testimony from other high-profile single mothers are challenging outdated narratives — questions emerging that matter deeply not only in Hollywood, but also for Thai readers as family structures and women’s roles evolve in Thailand and around the world.

New research helps explain why many healthy people feel tired, hungry, or struggle with weight after meals. The cause appears to be blood sugar dips that follow carbohydrate-heavy foods. As continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) become more common among non-diabetics and large nutrition studies expand, scientists link glucose fluctuations to daily energy, mood, and eating choices.

For Thai readers, where diabetes and metabolic disorders are rising, these findings offer practical, science-based strategies to stabilize blood sugar without relying on costly devices. The goal is clearer energy, better appetite control, and reduced chronic-disease risk through everyday dietary choices that fit Thai eating patterns.

A large international study shows that regular, supervised exercise after cancer treatment can lower the risk of cancer returning and reduce death rates. For Thai survivors, structured movement could become an accessible centerpiece of recovery, merging medical care with everyday activity.

In the trial, nearly 900 colon cancer patients at high risk of recurrence were followed for about eight years. Participants were split into two groups: one received standard guidance on diet and activity, while the other followed a structured exercise program with ongoing coaching and fitness tracking. The study found a 28% reduction in new or returning cancers and a 37% reduction in mortality for those in the exercise group.

A growing wave of research and storytelling is reshaping what it means to be a father in 21st-century Thailand. The latest exploration of Modern Fatherhood highlights diverse experiences across Asia and shows how paternity, masculinity, and emotional connection are evolving in Thai families.

Traditionally, Thai fathers were expected to be breadwinners and authority figures, often distant from their children. Today, urban and rural dads are reimagining their roles to include active caregiving, emotional openness, and deeper involvement in daily family life. This shift mirrors regional changes and is echoed in conversations sparked by Modern Fatherhood, a book published in collaboration with a renowned publishing house and covered by Thai media.

A groundbreaking AI system is drawing attention for its ability to forecast human choices with impressive accuracy. Published in Nature, the Centaur model seeks to predict how people think, learn, and decide across diverse tasks. The research team says Centaur generalizes beyond single experiments, offering new ways to study decision-making in real time.

Centaur was trained on a vast “Psych-101” dataset containing 160 types of psychological tests. The data come from more than 60,000 participants and over 10 million decisions. The system learns language-driven task descriptions rather than task-specific rules. Unlike older models designed for narrow tasks, Centaur aims to apply broad reasoning to novel experiments.

A global wellness trend dubbed the “crunchy teen” is reaching Thai youths, drawing concern from parents and teachers. While choosing natural foods can be positive, experts warn that misinformation and extreme nutrition beliefs are spreading, risking teens’ health. A senior family medicine specialist from a leading health system in the United States says these trends can fuel disordered eating and anxiety as teens chase an illusion of perfection.

The movement starts on Western social media and promotes avoiding processed foods, relying on unverified natural remedies, and distrusting mainstream nutrition guidance. Teens may encounter viral challenges, including parasite cleanses with questionable herbal doses or eating raw or undercooked animal products. Claims that parasite cleanses cure illnesses or that raw meat provides vitality lack scientific support and can be dangerous. Health professionals warn that raw meat can harbor bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, and listeria.

A new wave of research shows more mothers are turning to entrepreneurship for greater freedom, better work-life balance, and autonomy. Yet they face barriers such as funding access, reliable childcare, and lingering biases in business and health sectors. The latest reporting highlights that parental ambition is growing, but systems don’t always support it.

The pattern resonates beyond Europe. In Thailand, shifting gender roles and economic pressures are reshaping how families balance careers and caregiving. Global data show a generational shift: a Mastercard study finds 29% of Gen Z women see themselves as entrepreneurs, compared with 17% of Gen X women. Data from Thailand’s Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP) indicate a steady rise in women-led startups, especially in health, beauty, and tech. This aligns with national efforts to empower female founders, while acknowledging funding gaps and cultural stereotypes persist.

A new wave of AI chatbots, including ChatGPT, is reshaping study habits, work routines, and creative processes across Thailand. As students, professionals, and families increasingly turn to generative AI for essays and brainstorming, concerns rise about long-term effects on critical thinking and originality.

Thailand has championed digital literacy and AI in classrooms to boost regional competitiveness. Yet educators and cultural observers warn of hidden costs. Is this technology sharpening minds or promoting dependence on machine guidance?