edition.cnn.com
Genetic Adaptations of Jeju's Haenyeo Free-Divers Offer Clues to Blood Pressure Treatments
A study of the Haenyeo women of Jeju Island, South Korea, who free-dive for seafood, revealed unique genetic adaptations associated with lower blood pressure and potentially cold/pain tolerance, offering potential insights for treating blood pressure disorders; however, this tradition is dying out, with the current generation averaging 70 years old.
- What are the long-term implications of the decline of the Haenyeo diving tradition for both the community and the scientific understanding of human physiological adaptation?
- The Haenyeo's remarkable diving abilities result from a combination of genetic predisposition and years of training. The genetic variant linked to lower blood pressure could lead to new treatments for related disorders. The decline of the Haenyeo tradition highlights the loss of unique human adaptations and traditional practices, emphasizing the need for further research and preservation efforts.
- What specific genetic adaptations have allowed the Haenyeo women of Jeju Island to free-dive for extended periods, and what are the potential medical implications of these findings?
- On Jeju Island, South Korea, the Haenyeo women free-dive for seafood, reaching depths of up to 60 feet for four to five hours daily. A new study reveals unique genetic adaptations in these women, potentially linked to lower blood pressure and cold/pain tolerance, offering insights into treating blood pressure disorders. This matrilineal tradition is, however, dying out, with the current generation of Haenyeo averaging 70 years old.
- How did the researchers overcome the challenge of replicating the physical stress of free-diving in non-divers, and what were the key differences observed between the Haenyeo divers and the control groups?
- The study compared 30 Haenyeo divers, 30 non-diving Jeju women, and 31 South Korean mainland women. Jeju residents showed a greater likelihood of a genetic variant associated with lower blood pressure and cold/pain tolerance compared to mainlanders. This suggests that genetic factors contribute to the Haenyeo's unique physiological adaptations to free-diving.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely positive and celebratory, focusing on the remarkable abilities of the Haenyeo divers. This positive framing is not inherently biased, but it could be balanced by including more nuanced perspectives on the challenges faced by these women and the potential long-term health consequences of their diving practices. The headline and introduction highlight the uniqueness and extraordinary nature of the Haenyeo, which sets a celebratory tone.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, using scientific terminology appropriately. However, phrases like "incredible physical feat" and "extraordinary percentage of their time underwater" lean towards hyperbole and could be replaced with more measured language. The overall tone is respectful and appreciative, but a more critical analysis of the potential risks involved in this practice would add balance.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the genetic and physiological adaptations of the Haenyeo divers, but it could benefit from including more diverse perspectives. For instance, the article mentions that the practice is dying out, but doesn't explore the socio-economic factors contributing to this decline or the potential impact on Jeju Island's culture and economy. While acknowledging space constraints, expanding on the cultural and societal aspects would provide a more comprehensive understanding.
Gender Bias
While the article celebrates the Haenyeo community, it is important to note that the focus is solely on women divers. This is appropriate given the subject matter, but it doesn't discuss why this is a female-only tradition beyond some brief speculation. Further exploration of the historical and cultural reasons behind the gendered nature of this practice would be beneficial to a complete understanding and prevent the implicit normalization of gender roles.
Sustainable Development Goals
The study of Haenyeo divers reveals genetic adaptations and physiological responses that contribute to their ability to free dive. This research has the potential to lead to better treatments for blood pressure disorders and a deeper understanding of human physiological capabilities, directly impacting global health.