Implications of solid waste dumps on the microplastic abundance in groundwater in Kollam, India.

Water pollution caused by microplastics has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its potential ecological and human health risks. However, there are very limited studies and a general lack of consensus regarding the presence and negative impacts of microplastics in groundwater. Due to their small size, microplastics can easily be transported at surface as well as subsurface levels, potentially reaching the groundwater table and contaminating the groundwater system This contamination is expected to occur more rapidly in landfill areas and other locations where plastic waste is dumped.

Efficacy and safety of aromatase inhibitors in early breast cancer.

Background: Third-generation aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are surfacing as the standard adjuvant treatment for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor positive breast cancer over tamoxifen but their long-term effects are still under investigation.

Objective: In the light of current information, what factors should health practitioners take into consideration when prescribing AIs to patients?

Methods: Results of several randomized controlled adjuvant clinical trials were reviewed to assess the efficacy of treatment and their subprotocols focusing on quality of life and skeletal health to highlight the safety concerns.

Conclusion: To prevent early recurrences, AIs should be considered as the upfront hormonal treatment of choice.