newsletter #60 for Saturday, February 10th, 2024

3 min read

Research challenges previous beliefs about ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol

Research suggests elevated levels of “good” cholesterol lead to nearly 30% higher risk of dementia, over 40% for aged 75+. This connection remains even after accounting for various factors like age, physical activity, etc, though it does not establish causation. Findings challenge the traditional belief that high LDL cholesterol is always harmful.

3 min read

Another NZ Herald article telling a one sided story 

Boris Sokratov narrowly defines privilege as being tied to property rights.  

Privileges exist in the political realm through Māori appointees and Māori seats, but this doesn’t get a mention. 

Media support for Māori activism is also a form of privilege.

3 min read

Is the Auckland safer speeds campaign based on a flawed study?

Auckland Transport (AT) reduced speed limits in 2020, claiming a 39% reduction in road deaths. AT’s claim was based on a study by Abley.com. But there’s questions about AT’s decision to conduct a public advertising campaign based on unreliable data.

3 min read

Big tobacco’s influence in NZ – Much ado about nothing

The media makes allegations of government ties to Big Tobacco in New Zealand, but is there really anything out of the ordinary occurring? Government defends itself, saying no rules were broken and voters can decide if they don’t agree with any donations made. 

Many feel Labour’s anti-smoking laws were too stringent, ultimately ineffective in reducing smoking rates and costly to the poor.