For over 15 years, Dr Anthony Shum, a pulmonologist at the University of California, San Francisco has been studying a rare genetic disorder called the COPA Syndrome. It stands for coatomer subunit alpha and is a rare, inherited disorder that affects the lungs, joint, and kidney. The National Organization for Rare Disorder also notes that it is a genetic autoimmune disorder that is caused by mutations in the COPA gene. This disease affects families unpredictably—some individuals with the mutation develop severe lung damage early in life, while others remain completely healthy. Now, Shum’s team has discovered a protective genetic variant that may offer new hope for treatment.

A Breakthrough

Researchers found that some relatives of COPA Syndrome patients stayed healthy despite carrying the same COPA gene mutation that causes the disease. The key difference? These unaffected individuals had a protective version of another gene called HAQ-STING.

When scientists introduced HAQ-STING into diseased lung cells from COPA patients, the cells returned to a balanced state, suggesting that this gene could be used as a therapy.

“We really think HAQ-STING could be a gene therapy tool and a step toward a cure,” said Shum, whose findings were published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine.

Families Who Solved The Mystery

Shum’s journey into COPA Syndrome research began in 2011 when he treated a young woman, Letasha, who had severe lung bleeding. Her mother, Betty Towe, mentioned that Letasha’s sister, Kristina, had suffered from similar symptoms. Over the years, Betty had taken both daughters on a four-hour trip to UCSF for treatment. After tracing their family history, Shum discovered that their distant relatives in Texas and Oakland also had lung problems and arthritis. In 2015, Shum, along with scientists from Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital identified the COPA gene mutation. They realized that it was the common factor behind the illness. However, only some of the 30 individuals with the mutation actually developed symptoms, leaving a major question unanswered.

The Domino Effect

It was established that it occurs when a mutated COPA gene causes another gene STING to go overdrive. The STING that helps fight infections in COPA patients, remain permanently active, which leads to chronic inflammation that damages the lungs, kidneys, and joints. In 2020, while studying STING’s role in the disease, researchers discovered a key variation: HAQ-STING. This version of STING, present in about one-third of the population, appeared to neutralize the harmful effects of the COPA mutation.

To confirm their theory, the scientists needed both affected and unaffected family members to participate in the testing. Letasha, Kristina and Betty immediately volunteered. The researchers then analyzed DNA samples from 26 COPA patients and their healthy relatives. They also conducted CT scans and blood tests to ensure that unaffected members did not have any hidden symptoms. When the findings were all clear, it was revealed that all the healthy individuals had HAQ-STING, while none of the COPA patients did. This was the first known case of a common gene variant completely protecting against a severe genetic disease.

Encouraged by this discovery, researchers tested HAQ-STING’s effects in a lab setting. They introduced it into diseased lung cells from COPA patients, and the cells returned to normal function.

Way Ahead

Shum believes HAQ-STING could lead to game-changing treatments, including:

• Prenatal gene therapy for babies diagnosed with COPA Syndrome before birth
• Aerosol delivery of HAQ-STING for adults, directly targeting the lungs

Before publishing their findings, Shum called Betty with the news—her own HAQ-STING gene had protected her from the disease. He also informed Letasha and Kristina, who were overwhelmed with relief and joy.

“We always believed Dr. Shum would get to the bottom of it,” said Letasha. “This discovery is going to change lives.”

As men step into their 50s and beyond, prostate health becomes an essential part of overall wellbeing. The gland naturally undergoes changes with age, many of which are not cancerous but can still cause discomfort, disrupt daily routines, and affect long-term health. Awareness, early screening, and preventive habits play a crucial role in staying ahead of potential problems.

Why the Prostate Changes With Age

One of the most common age-related concerns is benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. This happens due to hormonal shifts that cause the gland to grow slowly over time.

“Most men assume urinary symptoms are just a normal part of aging, but that mindset often delays treatment,” says Dr. Vineet Malhotra, Director and Founder, VNA Hospital. “BPH itself is not dangerous, but if ignored, it can seriously affect quality of life and even lead to complications.”

A larger prostate can press against the urethra, causing symptoms such as:

• Frequent urination
• Weak or interrupted urine flow
• Difficulty starting to urinate
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Waking up multiple times at night to urinate

These symptoms often creep up gradually, making them easy to dismiss until they start interfering with sleep, work, or general comfort.

The Importance of Screening for Prostate Cancer

While BPH is not cancer, men must remain vigilant about prostate cancer, especially because its risk rises with age.

“Prostate cancer in early stages is usually silent,” explains Dr. Malhotra. “That is exactly why screening becomes so important once men cross 50.”

Two common screening tools include:

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test
• Digital Rectal Examination (DRE)

These tests help detect abnormalities long before symptoms appear. Early detection not only improves treatment outcomes but also prevents unnecessary anxiety or uncertainty.

Men should also stay alert for red-flag symptoms, including persistent pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, blood in urine or semen, and sudden urinary changes.

Lifestyle Choices That Support Prostate Health

Beyond medical screening, everyday habits have a strong influence on prostate wellbeing.

Dr. Malhotra emphasizes the role of lifestyle:

“A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce inflammation and support better prostate function.”

Healthy habits that help include:

• A diet rich in antioxidants (tomatoes, berries, leafy greens)
• Omega-3 sources like fatty fish and walnuts
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine
• Staying well-hydrated
• Avoiding smoking
• Regular physical activity

These choices not only support the prostate but also improve urinary health and hormonal balance.

Since stress can worsen urinary symptoms, incorporating yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing practices also makes a noticeable difference.

Breaking the Silence Around Prostate Health

One of the biggest challenges is the reluctance many men feel when discussing urinary or sexual symptoms.

“Men often suffer quietly because these issues feel too personal,” says Dr. Malhotra. “But silence delays diagnosis and treatment. Open conversations can literally save lives.”

Families, caregivers, and partners can play a supportive role by encouraging early checkups and normalizing discussions around prostate health.

The Bottom Line: Proactive Care Matters

With rising life expectancy and a more active older population, prioritizing prostate health is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Early diagnosis, informed decision-making, and evidence-backed treatments give men the chance to maintain independence, comfort, and quality of life well into their later years.

As Dr. Malhotra puts it, “Prostate health is not just a medical concern—it’s a foundation for staying energetic, confident, and healthy as you age.”

Crossing 40 often brings subtle but noticeable changes in how your body feels and functions. Many people brush off early signs like morning stiffness, reduced flexibility, or frequent bathroom visits, not realizing these are part of natural age-related changes. These shifts primarily affect the bones, joints, and urinary system, areas that quietly define everyday comfort.

According to Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director & Head, Orthopedics & Joint Replacement, Aakash Healthcare, these changes are expected but shouldn’t be ignored. “After 40, the body’s regenerative capacity slows down, particularly in bones and joints. Being aware of these changes helps in early prevention and better long-term outcomes,” he says.

Bone Health: Slower Regeneration and Higher Risk of Fractures

Bone density gradually declines with age due to hormonal changes. Women experience a drop in estrogen, and men see reduced testosterone levels—both crucial for supporting bone formation.

“Lower hormone levels weaken the natural bone-building cycle,” explains Dr. Chaudhry. “This increases the risk of fractures and even slows down healing when injuries occur.”

Key concerns include:

• Reduced bone density
• Higher risk of osteoporosis
• Slower fracture recovery

To counter this, weight-bearing exercises and strength training are crucial. A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein supports bone metabolism and maintains strength.

Joint Health: Wear, Tear, and Early Stiffness

Years of repetitive movements, combined with declining collagen production, make joints more vulnerable. Cartilage becomes less elastic, leading to stiffness, reduced mobility, and the early onset of osteoarthritis.

“Many people notice joint pain but assume it's just fatigue,” says Dr. Chaudhry. “In reality, early joint wear can be detected and managed much earlier with the right interventions.”

What contributes to joint discomfort after 40?

• Natural wear and tear
• Reduced cartilage elasticity
• Slower lubrication of joint spaces
• Early degenerative changes

Flexibility-focused exercises like yoga or stretching, along with anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and omega-3 sources, can ease stiffness and protect long-term mobility.

Urinary Changes: More Common Than You Think

While both men and women experience changes in urinary patterns, men often notice symptoms more prominently due to prostate enlargement. A bigger prostate narrows the urinary passage, causing:

• Frequent urination
• Weak urinary stream
• Urgency or incomplete emptying
• Night-time urination

Women, on the other hand, may struggle with pelvic floor weakness, leading to leakage or urgency.

Dr. Chaudhry notes, “These symptoms are common after 40, but they shouldn’t be normalized. Early evaluation can prevent chronic discomfort.”

Hydration remains essential. Cutting back on caffeine, alcohol, and salty foods can also lighten urinary symptoms and prevent kidney irritation.

Lifestyle Adaptations That Make a Real Difference

Shifting from reactive to preventive care is key after 40. The goal isn’t to stop ageing—it's to age comfortably and confidently.

What helps:

• Strength and mobility exercises
• Pelvic floor training
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular health screenings (bone density, kidney tests, prostate evaluation)
• Stress management through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
• Consistent sleep routines to support tissue repair

“Think of this stage as preparing your body for the next decades,” says Dr. Chaudhry. “With the right lifestyle adjustments, most people can maintain excellent mobility and function well into older age.”

After the Thanksgiving, on Friday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s top vaccine regulator, Vinay Prasad made a clam that shocked the public-health established. "For the first time, the US FDA will acknowledge that COVID-19 vaccines have killed American children," he wrote in a leaked email to his staff, as reported by The Atlantic and The Washington Post.

The agency has identified that at least 10 children died after getting COVID shots.

The email has been perceived by physicians as a "threat". A response from 12 former FDA commissioners, published in The New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday, called Prasad's memo "a threat to evidence-based vaccine policy and public health security". All of the potential vaccine related deaths reported to government were already reviewed by the agency's staff, and had reached "different conclusions", wrote the former commissioners.

Elsewhere, doctors and scientists have declared that there are no evidence that links COVID-19 vaccines to deaths in children. The commissioners have claimed that in an attempt to deliberately bring evidence, Prasad and his colleagues had engaged in an "evidence-manufacturing mission", a "dumpster dive" for shoddy data, or worse, a campaign of lying.

Prasad is one of several public health officials who, under Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s leadership, have been steadily chipping away at public trust in vaccines. So far, he has not provided evidence to back his claims, and his estimate of vaccine-related deaths may be exaggerated. The memo’s intense language and focus on political complaints also cast doubt on his assertions.

However, something that cannot be ignored is that fact that his memo may have provoked people to deny even the possibility of COVID-vaccine-related deaths. The Atlantic notes that "the idea that mRNA-based shots have, tragically, killed a very small number of children is not far-fetched." The article written by Benjamin Mazer, a physician who specializes in pathology and laboratory, notes that the this does not imply a "catastrophic threat to public health" as tens of millions of doses of the same vaccines have saved young people.

Understanding the Debate Of Vaccine-Linked Deaths

Public-health experts agree that COVID vaccines, like all medical treatments, can cause side effects. Myocarditis, a rare heart inflammation seen mostly in adolescent boys and young men after mRNA shots, remains the most discussed risk. Although usually mild and far less severe than virus-induced myocarditis, a few deaths have been documented worldwide, including isolated cases in the U.S., South Korea, and two American teenagers described in a peer-reviewed report.

These findings fuel ongoing debate about whether extremely rare vaccine-related deaths are being overlooked. Some scientists, including Paul Offit and Michael Osterholm, say the evidence does not prove the vaccines caused these deaths, noting that population-level studies show no rise in mortality after vaccination. Others argue that well-investigated autopsy-confirmed cases should be taken seriously rather than dismissed outright.

Experts such as Krutika Kuppalli, as cited by Mazer, emphasize that even if deaths occur, they are so uncommon they do not appear statistically, while the benefits, significantly reduced COVID mortality, are unmistakable. However, individual cases still raise questions on health authorities and the stricter standards of proofs they have applied when vaccines were involved to create a room for skepticism.

The concern is that rare side effects of vaccines could go undiscovered and not that vaccinations are inherently harmful.