Mental Floss

DISEASE



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A couple of long-suffering scientists from Australia donated their time—and their gas—to figuring out whether farts can spread disease.

Hannah McDonald














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Narcolepsy is defined by daytime drowsiness, and in some cases, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and the sudden loss of muscle control. Here are more facts about this often-misunderstood disorder.

Michele Debczak
A circa 1860s lithograph titled "Fire: The horrors of crinoline & the destruction of human life."

In the Victorian era, a glass of water, a beautiful dress, or a brightly colored piece of wallpaper could all spell your doom.

Claire Cock-Starkey


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There are different types of epileptic seizures that come with different epilepsy symptoms. Here are some more facts about this neurological condition.

Michele Debczak






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Bees, like many animals, are polyandrous—meaning females partner with multiple mates. And they might need their own PSAs about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases.

Shaunacy Ferro
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Depression affects 300 million people worldwide, but there's good news: There are effective treatments. Here’s what you need to know about this debilitating mental disorder.

Michele Debczak
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From risk factors to the latest treatments, here's what you need to know about the three types of diabetes (yes, there are three).

Michele Debczak
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Crohn’s disease means more than just a sensitive digestive tract. From symptoms to treatments, here's what you need to know about the inflammatory bowel disease.

Michele Debczak