August 24, 2004

The Media Can't Be Happy

I read some really wonderful news today from the AP. Scientists have tested a gene on mice that "essentially mimcs exercise." The therapy "conferred endurance and prevented the modified mice from becoming obese -- even when they were kept inactive and fed a high-fat diet."

Tell me, what better health news could there be for a nation like America? I don't have to recite for you the ill efffects of obesity; even this morning there was a story on the front page about how obesity increases the risk of cancer. If this genetic therapy could be transferred to humans, then Ronald Evans, the lead researcher on this project, deserves a Nobel prize at minimum.

At last, something that's certain to work, with actual science at work instead of these nonsensical "herbal remedies" for obesity! Great news, right? But look at how the AP introduces the story:

Researchers on Monday unveiled genetically engineered mice that can run farther and longer than their naturally bred brethren, bringing the "genetic" doping" of elite athletes a small step closer.

So, we've got a cure for one of the top three ailments of our modern society, and they're worried about... elite athletes using the medicine to make themselves stronger and faster.

There's just no pleasing some people.

Posted by Blog Jones at August 24, 2004 01:55 PM | Category: Technology

Comments

Err, there's already a cure... stop eating so much freaking food and start moving more. Really. if you're prepared to let someone mess with your genetic makeup in order to solve an obesity problem then you need your head read.

Posted by: Duncan at August 24, 2004 07:49 PM

Well, if you want to get technical....


Actually, there are people who disagree with you. And to be honest, I'd rather take an injection (after it's been on the market a couple of years and proven safe) than force myself to exercise. There's little I hate to do more; not only do I get hot and sweaty (which, for me, results nearly inevitably in a painful headache), but that's time I'd much rather spend reading a book or blogging, or really almost anything. If I could receive an injection that would give me the metabolism of someone who can eat whatever they want to and not gain weight, then I'd gladly take it.

Posted by: Blog Jones at August 24, 2004 08:04 PM
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