FDA approves Lumipulse, the first blood test to detect Alzheimer’s, offering a less invasive option to diagnose the neurodegenerative disease.

In a groundbreaking medical advancement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted approval to Fujirebio Diagnostics’ Lumipulse, making it the first blood test officially cleared to detect Alzheimer’s disease.

This milestone signals a major shift in how Alzheimer’s may be diagnosed—moving away from complex and invasive procedures to a simple blood draw.

 How Lumipulse Works

The Lumipulse test measures levels of two key proteins in the bloodstream:

- pTau217
- β-amyloid 1-42

It then calculates a ratio that helps determine the presence of amyloid beta plaques—a primary marker of Alzheimer’s disease. These plaques lead to the breakdown of neurons responsible for memory and cognition.

Traditionally, such biomarkers could only be detected through expensive PET brain scans or invasive spinal taps. With Lumipulse, a routine blood sample now provides a comparable early diagnostic indicator.

Why This Matters: A Game-Changer for Early Diagnosis

Alzheimer’s affects more people than breast and prostate cancer combined. Roughly 10% of people aged 65+ currently live with the condition—a number projected to double by 2050.

FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary emphasized the importance of innovation:

“Knowing the scale of this disease, I am hopeful that new medical products such as this one will help patients.”

While Lumipulse is likely to be used initially to rule out Alzheimer’s, a positive result will guide patients toward more detailed neurological testing and care.

How It Compares: A Top Performer Among Peers

Lumipulse ranked as one of the top two Alzheimer’s blood tests in a Washington University study, alongside PrecivityAD2 from C2N Diagnostics. This adds further credibility to its diagnostic power.

Meanwhile, FDA-approved drugs like Leqembi (Biogen/Eisai) and Kisunla (Eli Lilly) aim to slow the disease’s progression—indicating a growing arsenal of tools in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire as we continue tracking the latest in medical innovations and public health breakthroughs.
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Health Canada recalls 2,047 kids’ jewelry items over lead exposure risks; urges parents to return products immediately for safety.

Health Canada has issued a nationwide recall on children’s jewelry items after finding dangerously high levels of lead in several products from the Boutique Chic brand. Parents are being urged to act immediately to protect children from toxic exposure.

High Lead Levels Trigger Recall

Health Canada’s recent testing identified excessive lead in several children’s accessories, including the Boutique Chic All Smiles Spinner bracelets, necklaces, and rings. These items, featuring a spinning smiley face charm, were found to contain lead beyond the safe threshold of 90 mg/kg—a violation under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act.

Why Lead Is So Dangerous for Children

Lead exposure, particularly for children under 15, can lead to severe health complications. According to Health Canada, symptoms may include:

• Anemia
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Seizures or coma
• Brain damage
• Liver, kidney, and immune system impairment

In extreme cases, lead exposure can even be fatal.

Recalled Products & Batch Details

The recall affects 2,047 units sold in Canada between January and May 2025. The following items are affected:

- All Smiles Spinner Bracelet (Lilac or Yellow)
Model: 91811 | Batch: 9672 | UPC: 771877918117

- All Smiles Spinner Necklace (Lilac or Yellow)
Model: 92209 | Batch: 9674 | UPC: 77187792209

- All Smiles Spinner Ring (Lilac, Yellow, or Pink)
Model: 84533 | Batch: 9774 | UPC: 771877845338

Consumers can find batch and model numbers on the back of the packaging.

What Parents Should Do Now

Health Canada urges consumers to immediately remove these products from children’s reach and return them for a full refund. It’s illegal to sell, advertise, or import jewelry for children under 15 that contains more than 90 mg/kg of lead.

Stay informed with Maple News Wire for the latest consumer safety alerts and national updates.
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Melanoma is on the rise in Canada, and doctors warn most people aren’t using enough sunscreen. Experts debunk myths and highlight risks of underprotection.

Sunscreen Gaps Fuel Rising Skin Cancer Concerns in Canada.

Despite widespread awareness of sun risks, many Canadians still aren’t using enough sunscreen — and the consequences are showing. Dermatologists across the country are sounding the alarm as melanoma cases surge, with warnings especially aimed at younger generations.

The issue isn’t just exposure, but how little protection people actually use, fueled by myths, misinformation, and even economic barriers.

A Personal Wake-Up Call: From Mole to Melanoma

Christie Garofalo, a Vancouver mother of five, thought the mole on her abdomen had always been there. But a closer look — and a biopsy — revealed melanoma. “I collapsed in her office because you hear cancer and immediately you go down a terrible rabbit hole,” said Garofalo.

Now five years cancer-free, she admits she didn’t use sunscreen regularly in the past — a common behavior pattern among many Canadians.

Young Adults at Higher Risk, Study Finds

A recent study led by Dr. Ivan Litvinov, associate professor of dermatology at McGill University, found that nearly 60% of Canadians aged 18–29 spend two or more hours in the sun but are less likely to use sunscreen than older adults. This age group also reported higher rates of sunburns — a leading contributor to long-term skin damage and melanoma risk.

“People don’t think this is serious,” said Litvinov. “But skin cancer is increasing, and the data is very concerning.”

Misinformation and Myths Undermining Protection

Dermatologists say social media-fueled misinformation is playing a major role in reduced sunscreen use, especially among youth. Dr. Monica Li, a Vancouver-based dermatologist, says false claims — like sunscreen causing cancer — are rampant online. “All authorized sunscreens are safe when used as directed,” she emphasized. Last year, Health Canada issued a warning against homemade sunscreens and unscientific alternatives, calling them ineffective and unsafe.

Sunscreen Use Still Not the Norm

Even among those who use sunscreen, most apply far too little, according to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Here’s what’s recommended:

• 1 teaspoon for face and neck
• 2–3 tablespoons for the body (about a golf ball size)
• Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating

Experts also stress the importance of wearing sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak UV hours (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

Cost Barriers Limit Access

Litvinov and Li both point out that sunscreen affordability is a hidden health equity issue. “Sunscreen is taxed in Canada and considered a luxury item by many,” Litvinov said.

When used in the recommended amounts, sunscreen becomes expensive — leading many lower-income families to skip it altogether.

Melanin Isn’t Immunity: Why Everyone Needs Protection

A longstanding myth suggests that people with darker skin don’t need sunscreen. But dermatologists warn that even richly pigmented skin can develop melanoma, particularly on less visible areas like the soles of the feet or under nails. “It’s not enough natural protection,” said Li. She advocates tailored education campaigns to address these misconceptions in diverse communities.

The Sunscreen Paradox: Wanting Tans, Ignoring Risks

Experts describe the “sunscreen paradox” — when individuals apply minimal sunscreen with the goal of still getting a tan. The result? Skin damage still occurs, and the cancer risk increases.

“Any tan is a sign of skin damage,” Litvinov emphasized.

Final Word: Skin Cancer Is Preventable — But You Need to Act

With melanoma rates up 17% in Canada in just one year, doctors are urging Canadians to take sun safety seriously. The solution isn’t just sunscreen — it’s education, access, and shifting attitudes. Prevention today can save lives tomorrow.