Unbiased Science

In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman explore the complex world of psilocybin, or magic mushrooms. The scientists examine the substance's historical significance and neurobiological mechanisms, while discussing the emerging practice of microdosing and psilocybin's evolving legal status across different jurisdictions. They investigate the potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin for various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize contextual factors that influence psychedelic experiences and highlight the critical need for continued research to better understand psilocybin's full therapeutic potential. ?? https://ow.ly/vkxs50VkPX2 ?? https://ow.ly/ZIeM50VkPX3 ?? https://ow.ly/YnrX50VkPX6

The Definitive Guide to Vaccines and Autism: What Decades of Research Really Shows... Our team of experts—an immunologist, pediatrician, epidemiologist, and public health scientist—combed through dozens of studies involving over 10 million children to bring you the definitive summary of the evidence. We've analyzed every major study design—from systematic reviews and meta-analyses to large cohort studies—to answer the persistent question about vaccines and autism. Our comprehensive review cuts through misinformation with clear, accessible explanations of the science. Discover why the scientific consensus is overwhelming, what's really behind rising autism rates, and how we can finally move forward to focus on what truly matters: protecting children from preventable diseases while supporting neurodiversity with dignity and respect. Read our evidence-based breakdown that will give you confidence when discussing this topic with family, friends, and community members. ??https://lnkd.in/eS4cebq5

Depression and anxiety are not one-size-fits-all. With 300 million people worldwide living with depression and 325 million with anxiety disorders, these conditions affect each person uniquely. These differences matter because they influence both treatment approaches and personal coping strategies. Mental health conditions rarely have a single cause—they're complex interactions between biological factors (genetics, brain chemistry) and environmental triggers (life events, trauma). Recognition is the first step to finding the right treatment. WARNING SIGNS IN YOURSELF: ??? Down, sad or depressed mood that is unusual for you ??? Loss of interest or enjoyment in things you usually like ???Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy ??? Thoughts of hurting yourself or others WARNING SIGNS IN A FRIEND OR LOVED ONE: ??? Social withdrawal ??? Irritable, angry, hyperactive, or distant behavior ??? Neglecting personal or professional responsibilities ??? Expressions of hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness Most importantly, remember you don't have to face it alone. From emergency resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to professional support from mental health specialists, help is available. References: Tokuda, T., Yoshimoto, J., Shimizu, Y. et al. Identification of depression subtypes and relevant brain regions using a data-driven approach. Sci Rep 8, 14082 (2018). https://ow.ly/vP8F50VjQwj https://ow.ly/umP950VjQwk https://ow.ly/RT6q50VjQwl https://ow.ly/ymsi50VjQwm https://ow.ly/6wfL50VjQwo Hybels, C.F., Blazer, D.G., Pieper, C.F., Landerman, L.R. and Steffens, D.C., 2009. Profiles of depressive symptoms in older adults diagnosed with major depression: latent cluster analysis. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 17(5), pp.387-396.

Recently, we did a post debunking a viral claim that eliminating food dyes (along with other additives, gluten, dairy, and "other inflammatory foods" from a child's diet) will improve ADHD symptoms. We were asked why we are defending food additives... here is our reply. Remember: our loyalty is always to public health. Full stop.

Jessica Steier, DrPH, PMP helps PolitiFact's Sara Swann fact check the Moms Across America?and?GMOScience study into Girl Scout cookies. https://lnkd.in/e6yukwEm #factcheck #healthcommunications #sciencecommunications #misinformation

Despite initial concerns raised when the FDA canceled its advisory committee meeting (VRBPAC) on flu vaccine strain selection in February, the agency has now confirmed that flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 season will be available on schedule this fall. The cancellation had sparked warnings from medical experts, including the Infectious Diseases Society of America, about potential delays in vaccine production during what has been described as the worst flu season in more than a decade. On March 13, 2025, the FDA announced its recommendations for flu vaccine strains after collaborating with experts from the CDC and the Department of Defense. The vaccine composition is similar to last year's formula, with specific strains selected for both egg-based and cell/recombinant-based production methods. The FDA has already informed vaccine manufacturers of these recommendations, ensuring production can proceed as planned for fall distribution despite the earlier concerns about potential disruptions. Source: https://lnkd.in/eFYB-RND

VAERS is a powerful tool for detecting potential vaccine safety signals—but it’s just one of MANY surveillance systems in place worldwide. Unfortunately, it’s often misinterpreted or taken out of context. Just like vaccines, all medications are monitored through global pharmacovigilance systems, ensuring continuous safety evaluation. Vaccine safety isn’t just a U.S. priority—countries around the world have similar systems, like the UK’s Yellow Card, the EU’s EudraVigilance, and Canada’s CAEFISS, all working together to detect and investigate potential risks. In this post, we break down what happens when a VAERS report is filed, how it’s investigated, and the steps taken to ensure vaccine safety. Reports are taken seriously and thoroughly examined—and we have a newsletter in the works to dive even deeper. Our goal? To demystify the process and highlight how vaccine safety monitoring truly works. Stay tuned! Sources: https://ow.ly/qgK450Vi1CM https://ow.ly/nEtb50Vi1CF https://ow.ly/oKEE50Vi1CT https://ow.ly/tqcQ50Vi1CW https://ow.ly/lI3n50Vi1CR https://ow.ly/IoB050Vi1CA https://ow.ly/XQqB50Vi1CN https://ow.ly/oZNp50Vi1CZ https://ow.ly/I0em50Vi1CO https://ow.ly/lzb050Vi1Cw https://ow.ly/cQ1B50Vi1CE https://ow.ly/Ej8750Vi1Cz https://ow.ly/v6yb50Vi1CG https://ow.ly/8jXU50Vi1E0 https://ow.ly/9Ook50Vi1E1 https://ow.ly/OzzU50Vi1CV https://ow.ly/vrWv50Vi1CU https://ow.ly/9CP350Vi1CC https://ow.ly/HqOG50Vi1CH

Am I protected against measles? It might depend on when you were born. Our CEO and public health scientist Jessica Steier, DrPH, PMP speaks with science journalist Anna Gibbs on what, if anything, you need to do to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Am I vaccinated?enough? Do I need a measles booster? Should I confirm that I’m immune by taking something called a?titer test? https://lnkd.in/eZvpgaZA #healthcommunications #sciencecommunications #misinformation #socialmedia

In our latest Unbiased Science Substack article, we discuss the alarming global surge in measles cases, with Europe experiencing its highest outbreak in over 25 years and the U.S. facing escalating cases across multiple states. This resurgence is driven by declining vaccination rates and rampant misinformation, including false claims that vitamins or supplements can prevent measles. Measles is not a harmless childhood illness—it can cause severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, and immune amnesia, which weakens the immune system long after recovery. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 97% lifelong immunity, making it the most effective tool in preventing infection. In the U.S., outbreaks are concentrated in Texas and New Mexico but have spread to California, New York, Maryland, and Oklahoma. Meanwhile, in Europe, over 127,000 cases were reported in 2024 alone, with Romania, Kazakhstan, and Russia among the hardest-hit countries. Alarmingly, vaccination rates in some regions have fallen well below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, with some as low as 24%. Measles is one of the most contagious viruses—far more infectious than COVID-19 or Ebola. While high-dose vitamin A can help reduce complications in those already infected, it does not prevent the disease. The only effective prevention is vaccination. WHO and UNICEF are calling for urgent action to close vaccination gaps, restore public trust in immunization, and strengthen healthcare systems. The resurgence of measles is entirely preventable. We have the tools to stop it—but only if we take action now. Read the Substack article: https://lnkd.in/ePuvNsix Sources: https://ow.ly/yHMs50VhpIg https://ow.ly/1NxZ50VhpIf https://ow.ly/jpP850VhpI6 https://ow.ly/VTis50VhpI5 https://ow.ly/ZfLK50VhpI2

Europe has recorded the highest number of measles cases in 25 years, with children under five making up more than 40% of all cases. Today, UNICEF and WHO issued a joint media statement on the global measles situation—and the findings are alarming. We’ve summarized the key takeaways in our latest newsletter. ??https://lnkd.in/ePuvNsix