Health Watch: HPV myths debunked, Smartwatch spots sickness

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Your smartwatch might know you’re sick before you do — a new study from Aalto University found that by monitoring respiration, heart rate, and skin temperature, smartwatches can predict with 88% accuracy if you’re coming down with COVID and 90% accuracy if you’re about to get the flu.

While this technology could help detect illness early, stopping the spread still relies on individuals choosing to self-isolate and take precautions.

Doctors are working to correct misconceptions about human papillomavirus (HPV) and its link to cancer. A study from Ohio State University found that most people don’t realize HPV is more common in men than women and is linked not just to cervical cancer, but also to several cancers that affect men. Another major gap in awareness? The HPV vaccine reduces infection risk by 90%, making it a powerful tool in cancer prevention.

Rising temperatures could severely impact global food supply. Another Aalto University study warns that up to one-third of the world’s food production is at risk, especially in low-altitude regions. Staples like rice, wheat, potatoes, and soybeans are particularly vulnerable. As climate change accelerates, food security could become a major global crisis.

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