A cartoon picture of an astronaut. (PHOTO:VCG)

By BI Weizi

Recently, the China Association for Science and Technology published a list of misconceptions that did the rounds in 2023 till they were busted. Science and Technology Daily addresses some of these to help our readers remain well-informed and not be taken in by rumors.

Rumor 1: Genetic testing can reveal a child's hidden talent within the DNA

The truth: There is currently no scientific experiment or literature to validate any relationship between specific genes and talent. It is impossible to determine a child's natural talent through gene testing. Hu Suwei, a researcher from the Yangzhou Medicine Genetics Center, said these so-called tests are just a gimmick.

Rumor 2: Shortsighted people can't be astronauts

The truth: The selection standards for astronauts are indeed very strict. However, people with a low degree of myopia are currently allowed to go into space. If astronauts wear glasses during the ascent phase of the mission, the glasses may fall off or break if there is a collision or other problems. But the space station environment is relatively stable and glasses can be worn inside the space station.

Rumor 3: The "sudden death prevention package," a new dietary fad consisting of health products like fish oil, vitamin D3 and “eye vitamin” lutein, can prevent sudden death if taken daily.

The truth: There is no standard "sudden death prevention package" in the medical community. Fish oil, vitamin D3 etc. are all dietary supplements. There is no medical prescription or consensus that taking these products can prevent sudden death.

Currently, heart diseases account for more than 80 percent of all sudden deaths. Patients with cardiovascular diseases often have hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia and usually take a variety of medications. They should follow their doctor's advice before taking any supplements.

Rumor 4: Iodized salt can protect people from nuclear radiation

The truth: Consuming iodized salt to prevent nuclear radiation is not advisable. The purpose of taking iodized table salt is to prevent and treat iodine deficiency disorders in areas with low concentrations of iodine in their water supply. Iodine deficiency is a major public health problem that can be addressed in an inexpensive way by adding small amounts of iodine to sodium chloride salt.

However, excessive iodine intake causes serious stress to various organs of the human body and can induce or aggravate cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, dehydration and even death.