DR. ALLEN W. MCCLURE III, MD

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This research looked at how parenting behaviors differ between moms and dads with depression or anxiety and those without these mental health issues. The study found that parents with depression or anxiety face more parenting stress and use less effective discipline, leading to poorer relationships with their children. Understanding these differences is crucial because it helps in developing better support programs for parents, which can ultimately lead to healthier child development. Who this helps: This helps parents dealing with mental health issues and their children.

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This study looked at how intimate partner violence (IPV) and traumatic stress during pregnancy impact the health of women of color. It found that Hispanic women who experienced IPV were more likely to suffer from depression and diabetes during pregnancy compared to non-Hispanic White women without IPV. Specific numbers revealed that IPV significantly increased the risk of diabetes only among Hispanic women. This research highlights the urgent need for better prenatal care that understands and addresses these issues. Who this helps: This helps women of color who are pregnant, healthcare providers, and policy makers.

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This study looked at how the method of surgery for treating prostate cancer has changed in Ontario from 2010 to 2019 and examined the rate of complications that patients experienced afterward. It found that more men are now choosing robotic-assisted surgery, which increased from 6.8% to 36.7%, while traditional surgery rates dropped from 80.3% to 55.6%. Importantly, complications decreased, with the rate of blood transfusions falling from 7.96% to 3.47%. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing prostate surgery by reducing their risk of complications.

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This study looked at how integrating a program that combines food and medicine can help improve health and save money in healthcare. Researchers found that focusing on medically tailored meals and helping patients develop cooking skills could lead to better health results and lower healthcare costs. For instance, addressing diet-related diseases not only supports patients' long-term well-being but also eases the financial burden on the healthcare system. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic diet-related diseases and healthcare providers working to improve their care.

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This study focused on a program called the Teaching Kitchen Multisite Trial (TK-MT), which aims to help adults at risk for heart and metabolic diseases by improving their cooking skills and overall lifestyle. Over 18 months, participants attended 24 classes—16 of which were hands-on cooking sessions—followed by 8 online classes about nutrition and wellness. The research looks to track health changes and challenges faced while trying to implement this program, with the goal of proving it can effectively improve dietary habits and health. Who this helps: This helps adults at risk for cardiometabolic diseases improve their health and well-being.

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This study looked at patients in Ontario who had open tibial fractures, analyzing their treatment and recovery from 2009 to 2020. Out of 4,240 patients, about one-third were treated at trauma centers and were generally in worse condition—the trauma center patients were more likely to undergo limb amputation or have surgery to repair soft tissue, but their risk of infection or death within 30 days was the same as others. These results highlight the importance of specialized care for improving patient outcomes after severe injuries. Who this helps: Patients with serious leg injuries and their doctors.

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This study looked at how distance from a liver transplant center affects patients waiting for a transplant. Researchers analyzed data from 552 patients and found that living closer or further from the center (150 km or less vs. more than 150 km) did not significantly change their chances of receiving a transplant or dying while waiting. However, patients living farther away had more hospital visits and emergency room trips before they were listed for a transplant, which indicates that distance can still negatively affect patient care. Who this helps: This information helps patients needing liver transplants and their healthcare providers.

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This research focused on creating new oral medications that can block tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), a protein that contributes to inflammation in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers developed a compound that works as well as existing treatments but can be taken by mouth, and in tests on mice, it reduced swelling effectively. They estimate that a human dose would be 200 mg taken once a day, showing promise for future development of these medications. Who this helps: Patients with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

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The study looked at whether taking certain medications for overactive bladder (OAB) increases the risk of developing dementia in younger adults under 65 years old. It found that there was no significant difference in dementia risk between those who used traditional anticholinergic medications and those who used a different type called beta-3 agonists, with a hazard ratio of 0.99. This is important because it suggests that both types of medication are safe in this age group regarding dementia risk. Who this helps: This helps patients with overactive bladder and their doctors make informed medication choices without worrying about dementia risk.

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This paper examines how a philosopher named Elizabeth Anscombe's ideas about intention and action can improve nursing ethics. The study found that using her concepts can help nurses make better ethical decisions and provide more thoughtful and caring support to patients. By focusing on how intentional actions matter, nurses can enhance the moral significance of their care, which leads to better patient outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits nurses and healthcare providers in making more ethical decisions in patient care.

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This study looked at two devices that use fluorescence technology to detect when harmful cyanobacterial cells are breaking down in water, which can release toxins called microcystins. Researchers found that these devices could identify the breakdown of cyanobacterial cells in Lake Erie drinking water; specifically, the PhycoSens detected unbound phycocyanin (a marker for cell lysis) which coincided with increases in microcystin levels over a three-month period. This is important because it helps water treatment managers respond quickly to potentially dangerous water conditions. Who this helps: Patients relying on safe drinking water and water treatment professionals.

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This study looked at how effective a new local anesthetic called liposomal bupivacaine is in reducing the need for opioid pain medications after surgery on the lower back. Researchers reviewed the records of 198 patients who underwent spinal surgery, and they found that patients who received liposomal bupivacaine used less than half the amount of opioids compared to those who didn’t receive it, showing a 57% decrease in pain medication use. This is important because it helps tackle the ongoing issue of opioid dependence after surgery by providing better pain management options. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from lower back surgery.

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This study looked at how a new funding model for prostate surgery in Ontario, started in 2015, affected the outcomes of radical prostatectomy, a common surgery for prostate cancer. The researchers found that after the funding model was introduced, the complication rate dropped from 11.89% to 9.96%, and the proportion of patients meeting the ideal hospital stay length increased from 78.11% to 86.84%. However, some measures worsened, such as the rate of unplanned visits, which went up from 23.45% to 25%, and the target for waiting times decreased slightly. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing prostate surgery by aiming to improve surgical outcomes.

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This study examined the long-term outcomes for women in Ontario who had a procedure called endometrial ablation (EA) to treat heavy bleeding. Out of over 76,000 women studied, around 8,635 (16.5%) had a hysterectomy within five years, and by 15 years, this number rose to 28.75%. These findings highlight that while EA can be an alternative to hysterectomy, many women may still need to undergo more surgery later on. Who this helps: This information helps patients and doctors better understand the risks associated with endometrial ablation.

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This study focused on defining essential nutrition knowledge that medical students and trainee doctors should learn. Researchers reviewed existing nutrition competencies and gathered input from experts to create a list of 354 potential topics, ultimately narrowing it down to 36 key competencies that should be taught at various stages of medical training. It's important because better nutrition education can lead to improved patient health and may help tackle rising healthcare costs related to diet-related diseases. Who this helps: This benefits medical students, doctors, and ultimately patients who will receive better care related to nutrition issues.

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This study looked at two surgical methods for treating emergencies in the left side of the colon, specifically comparing Hartmann's procedure (HP) and colonic resection with primary anastomosis (RPA). Out of 1,215 patients, HP was performed on 697 (57.3%), but it was associated with higher complications and a 30-day death rate of 13.7%, particularly in cases of bowel perforation. The findings suggest that RPA should be the preferred method because patient characteristics and surgeon experience influence treatment choice, with HP being used more as an exception rather than a standard. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing surgery for colonic emergencies and their doctors in making informed treatment decisions.

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This study looked at how men and women on the Island of Ireland think about and behave regarding health before conception. It involved 386 adults around 30 years old, and while most believed preconception care was important, women were seen as needing to pay more attention to healthy behaviors than men. These findings show that there is a strong need to increase awareness about preconception health for both men and women to ensure better preparation for pregnancy. Who this helps: This helps patients planning for pregnancy, especially women and men of childbearing age.

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This study looked at how many patients continue to use opioids after having common surgeries, like gallbladder removal or hernia repair, even when they weren't recently prescribed these painkillers. The research found that 80% of patients filled an opioid prescription after surgery, and 11% were still using them three months later. This is important because it highlights a significant issue: many patients may become reliant on opioids after surgery, which can lead to long-term use and potential addiction. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by informing them about the risks of opioid use after surgery.

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A 14-year-old boy experienced severe neck pain, high heart rate, fever, and a widespread rash over two days. Despite initial treatment, his condition worsened, leading to hospitalization where doctors provided fluids and antibiotics, helping his symptoms improve enough for discharge. However, he was later readmitted for worsening fatigue and heart issues, requiring more intensive care. Who this helps: This research aids doctors in recognizing and managing severe infections in young patients.

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This study looked at how long surgeries took in Ontario before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that surgeries took an average of 12 minutes longer during the pandemic and 5 minutes longer when regular procedures resumed, which adds up to significant delays for patients needing care. This is important because longer surgery times can make existing backlogs worse, making it harder for hospitals to provide timely treatment. Who this helps: Patients waiting for elective and nonelective surgeries.

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This study looked at ways parents can help their teenagers get better sleep. It found that when parents set rules about bedtimes and model good sleep habits, their teenagers tend to sleep longer and have better sleep quality. Specifically, having a supportive family environment and a warm relationship with parents linked to improvements in the teenagers' daytime functioning. These findings can guide parenting programs aimed at improving adolescent sleep. Who this helps: This helps parents and their teenage children.

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This study looks at creating new oral medications that can effectively block a protein called TNFα, which causes inflammation in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers found a new drug that works as well as a common TNFα antibody in reducing swelling in mice. This is significant because it could lead to easier-to-take treatments for people with chronic autoimmune diseases. Who this helps: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

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This study looked at access to weight-loss surgery (bariatric surgery) for older patients (60 years and older) compared to younger patients. Out of nearly 20,000 patients referred to a surgery program in Ontario, only 60% of older patients had the surgery within three years, while 90% of younger patients did. This shows that older patients are almost 70% more likely to miss out on this surgery solely based on their age, even if they are otherwise healthy, highlighting a need for better access to this effective treatment for older adults. Who this helps: This helps older patients who may benefit from weight-loss surgery.

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This study looked at heart infections caused by echinococcal disease, which can create unusual growths in the heart. Researchers found that echocardiograms (a type of heart ultrasound) are effective for initial assessment, but combining CT and MRI scans is even better for getting detailed images of these infections. Treating these infections may involve surgery to remove the cysts, which can completely cure the condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with cardiac echinococcal infections by providing better diagnostic tools and treatment options.

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This study looked at the rates of complications in over 76,000 women who underwent endometrial ablation (a procedure to treat heavy menstrual bleeding) in Ontario from 2002 to 2017. The researchers found that only 4.8% of these women experienced complications, with very few needing to go back to the hospital or dying within six months after the procedure. Understanding these complication rates is important for women considering this option, as it shows that serious issues are rare. Who this helps: This helps patients considering endometrial ablation.

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This study examined how well doctors are following recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics to help children with obesity, focusing on kids aged 2 to 19 who are very overweight. After an 18-month effort to improve care, the team found that while adherence to guidelines improved in four out of five areas, only 13% of younger children received necessary lab tests compared to 45% of older children, indicating a gap in care based on age. This matters because effective treatment can lead to better health outcomes for children facing obesity. Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients and their families by ensuring they receive better care for obesity.

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This study focused on understanding harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie by collecting and analyzing water samples for toxins produced by cyanobacteria. In 2018 and 2019, researchers gathered a total of 272 samples within just six hours, finding that the amount of a specific toxin called microcystin increased significantly from 11,513 kg to 30,691 kg over the two years. This matters because the toxic levels varied greatly over short distances, making it tricky to accurately predict toxin concentrations, which is crucial for protecting public health and local ecosystems. Who this helps: This helps patients, communities, and local authorities who need to stay informed about water safety.

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This study focused on understanding a trait in soybeans that helps them use less water during drought conditions, specifically by examining two soybean lines called "Jackson" and "KS4895." Researchers found that 88% of the slow wilting soybean genotypes showed good water-saving abilities at one temperature, while this dropped to only 43% at a higher temperature, indicating that heat affects their water conservation. This finding is important because it helps identify specific genetic traits that can improve drought tolerance in soybeans, which is crucial for maintaining crop yields in drier conditions. Who this helps: This benefits farmers and agricultural scientists working to improve soybean resilience to climate change.

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This study looked at how different environmental factors and plant types affect the bacteria and microorganisms living on and around plants in areas where permafrost is melting. Researchers found that the type of plant had a stronger effect on the microbes living on the leaves than on those in the soil, although both plants and the environment influenced the soil microbes equally. This is important because it helps us understand how changes in plant communities as the climate warms could affect the microbes that play a role in carbon cycling, which is crucial for climate change feedback. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying climate change impacts and environmental conservation efforts.

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This study focused on improving support for lifestyle changes in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity at a rural endocrinology clinic. The project highlighted successful strategies that led to better dietary recommendations, ultimately helping patients manage their conditions more effectively. Improving these dietary guidelines is crucial because they can significantly enhance patient health and wellbeing. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

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This study looked at harmful algal blooms in Western Lake Erie and how they release a dangerous toxin called microcystin into drinking water. In August 2014, microcystin levels were so high that over 400,000 people in Toledo, Ohio, had their water supply disrupted for two days. The research found that certain viruses played a role in breaking down these algae, leading to more dissolved toxins that are harder to remove during water treatment, indicating that local water treatment facilities need to monitor for these viral activities to better protect public health. Who this helps: This benefits water treatment officials and the residents they serve, ensuring safer drinking water.

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This study examined the impact of new fertilizers designed to reduce nitrogen loss and improve corn growth in no-tillage farming in Tennessee from 2013 to 2015. It found that using certain treatments, like urea mixed with a urease inhibitor called NBPT, significantly reduced ammonia loss by up to 87% and increased corn yields by as much as 41%. This is important because it helps farmers use fertilizers more efficiently, leading to better crop production while reducing environmental impact. Who this helps: Farmers and agricultural producers.

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This study looked at how having a caregiver affects patients recovering from a severe stroke when they leave a hospital rehabilitation program. Researchers found that patients with a caregiver scored an average of 85.8 points on a functional ability scale when discharged, compared to 72.9 points for those without a caregiver, which is a significant difference. This matters because having support from a caregiver can lead to better recovery outcomes for stroke patients. Who this helps: Patients recovering from severe strokes.

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This study focused on developing new compounds to inhibit a specific protein called Na1.7, which is involved in pain signaling. Researchers found that by making changes to the chemical structure of a previous compound, they could restore its ability to effectively block Na1.7. Specifically, they created a series of new compounds that better target this protein. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from chronic pain.

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This study looked at whether surgeons feel less skilled after taking a vacation and how that impacts their patients. Researchers found that patients who had heart surgery immediately after their surgeon returned from a week-long vacation had similar outcomes to those who had surgery at other times, with no significant differences in death rates, operation length, or hospital stays. This is important because it shows that vacations do not negatively affect surgical performance or patient safety. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing heart surgery.

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Researchers investigated a new type of medication designed to block the Na1.7 protein that is involved in pain sensation. They developed a compound called aryl sulfonamide 49 that better penetrates cell membranes and effectively reduces pain in mice with nerve and inflammatory pain. This is important because it could lead to better pain relief options for patients who suffer from chronic pain conditions. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with chronic neuropathic and inflammatory pain.

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This study looked at a new type of compound called glycine sulfonamides that can inhibit an enzyme called diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) without permanently binding to it. The researchers found some very effective compounds that could be useful for further research and drug development. These findings are important because they offer new tools for studying how to control this enzyme, which could have implications for treating various health conditions. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists developing new medications.

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This study explored a new drug that inhibits an enzyme called BACE1, which is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers created a compound that is 34 times more effective at blocking this enzyme and found that it significantly reduced harmful brain proteins associated with Alzheimer’s in rats. These findings are important because they could lead to better treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer’s disease and their families by potentially leading to new therapies.

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This study looked at ten different varieties of sorghum to see how their alcoholic extracts affected cancer cells and how their color related to these effects. The researchers found that the ethanol extracts were more effective than other methods, with some extracts damaging cancer cells at concentrations as low as 0.69 mg/mL. Additionally, these extracts made ovarian cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy, reducing their growth and ability to form colonies by up to 44.6%. Who this helps: This benefits patients with ovarian cancer by providing new potential treatments.

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The study looked at how long certain common urological surgeries take at teaching hospitals compared to non-teaching hospitals in Ontario from 2002 to 2013. It found that surgeries at academic hospitals generally took longer, with average additional times ranging from 8.3 minutes for circumcision to 29.2 minutes for radical prostatectomy. This longer duration may be due to the presence of medical students and residents learning during the procedures or inherent inefficiencies in larger hospital systems. Who this helps: This information helps patients and doctors by highlighting potential longer wait times for surgeries at teaching hospitals.

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This study looked at various factors that can help predict how well someone will recover and function after being in rehabilitation for a stroke. Out of nearly 3,300 articles reviewed, 27 studies focused on 63 models that identify what influences recovery scores—like the Barthel Index (BI) or Functional Independence Measure (FIM)—with key factors including a patient's initial level of function, stroke severity, language difficulties, impulsivity, past strokes, and age. Understanding these predictors is crucial because it helps doctors tailor rehabilitation plans to improve recovery outcomes for stroke patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from strokes and their healthcare providers.

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The study looked at how certain medications can make it more likely for elderly people to become dehydrated or suffer from heat-related illnesses during hot weather. It found that common medications, such as diuretics, especially when combined with other heart-related drugs, can disrupt the body’s ability to handle heat and recognize thirst. This is important because preventing heat-related illnesses is crucial, especially since many of these cases could be avoided with proper medication management before the hot season. Who this helps: This helps elderly patients and their healthcare providers.

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This research paper discusses the need for a better approach to stroke care, which has mostly focused on immediate vascular treatments, like thrombolysis, that help only a small number of patients. It found that while these treatments are important, many stroke survivors still face significant impairments and can benefit much more from rehabilitation strategies that promote recovery. The study calls for a shift in how we care for stroke patients, stressing that rehabilitation should be a key part of treatment along with addressing the vascular issues. Who this helps: This helps stroke survivors and their families, as well as healthcare providers who support recovery programs.

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This study focused on improving mental health support for patients with head and neck cancers by better identifying and managing psychological distress. Before the changes were made, distress was only recognized based on doctors' assessments, but after implementing a new screening tool, distress screening rates jumped from 0% to 74% in just over a year. This is important because it shows that systematic approaches can significantly enhance care for patients who are struggling emotionally. Who this helps: This helps patients with head and neck cancers by ensuring they receive better mental health care.

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This study looked at how effective different psychological treatments are for people who are dealing with mental health issues after having a stroke, specifically when they’re in the chronic stage (more than six months after the stroke). They found that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was the best at improving mood, while exercise helped people adjust and cope better. These findings are important because they show that targeted psychological interventions can significantly aid recovery and improve quality of life for stroke survivors. Who this helps: This research benefits stroke patients and healthcare providers by offering effective treatment options for mental health challenges post-stroke.

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This study looked at patients admitted to eight hospitals in Ontario who had suffered a stroke to determine how many needed in-patient rehabilitation. Out of 396 patients, 147 (or about 37%) were identified as needing rehabilitation, and 75% of those were sent to a rehab unit. Knowing that 37% of stroke patients require rehabilitation helps healthcare planners allocate resources effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from stroke and the healthcare providers managing their care.

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This study looked at the causes of eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia, which is a condition where people obsess over becoming more muscular. It involved 348 college students, and researchers found that societal pressure to look a certain way leads to body dissatisfaction, which is linked to lower self-esteem and perfectionism. This dissatisfaction can then result in negative feelings, contributing to both eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia. Who this helps: This helps students and young adults struggling with body image issues.