PNL December #3 '25

December 18, 2025

💙 Hello Medimap Community,

Many symptoms people brush off as aging are not actually normal at all. Let’s break down the warning signs doctors say should never be ignored.

New reports are raising alarms, with higher skin cancer risks, a worsening flu season, and hospitals still stretched beyond capacity.👇

. DEEP DIVE .

🧠 The “Aging” Symptoms That Aren’t Actually Normal

Memory slips, balance issues, constant fatigue, many Canadians write these off as normal aging. But in many cases, they’re early warning signs of something more serious.

Sneak Peek Inside:

  • Symptoms doctors don’t consider normal

  • Why waiting can limit treatment options

  • How early action can change outcomes

. NEWSFLASH .

🧴 Tanning Beds Linked to Skin Cancer
New research shows tanning bed use dramatically increases melanoma risk, with DNA damage found across the entire body, even in skin that looks “normal.” Young users may be packing decades of UV damage into just a few years.

🦠 Three Children Dead as Flu Cases Surge
Health Canada confirms three children have died from influenza complications since early December. Doctors warn this flu season is shaping up to be especially severe.

🏥 New Data Shows Hospitals Still Over Capacity
Despite years of warnings, hospitals across B.C. continue operating well beyond capacity, with many patients treated in hallways and makeshift beds, a situation linked to higher risks and longer stays.

⚠️ Microplastics May Be Spreading Dangerous Bacteria
Scientists warn microplastics can act as carriers for harmful and drug-resistant bacteria, potentially spreading infections through food and water systems and making illnesses harder to treat.

. NUTRITION .

🍽️ Healthy Eating on a Budget

💰 Cost per serving: ~$0.50 | Gingerbread Pancakes | ⏱️ ~20 min

We didn’t know what to expect, but they’re honestly great. Fluffy, lightly spiced, and simple, they’re an easy winter breakfast win.

. YOUR TAKE .

💊 Medication Snapshot

They add up pretty quickly.

How many medications do you take regularly?

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. BUZZ & BANTER .

✏️ Medi-Wordrow

🔎 Clue: Crispy, salty, and rarely leftover.

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