Chatbots in Health and Struggles Over AI Regulation

The Shift from 'Dr. Google' to ChatGPT Health

For over two decades, the go-to action for those encountering new medical symptoms has been an online search—a practice humorously dubbed "Dr. Google." However, the digital landscape is evolving as individuals increasingly turn to Large Language Models (LLMs) for medical inquiries. According to OpenAI, approximately 230 million people seek health-related guidance from ChatGPT each week. This context sets the stage for the unveiling of OpenAI's new ChatGPT Health product launched earlier this month. The pressing question is whether the inherent risks associated with using AI for health inquiries can be sufficiently mitigated to provide real benefits.

Battle Over AI Regulation in the US

As 2025 came to an end, the conflict surrounding AI regulation in the United States intensified. Following Congress's failure to pass a law banning individual state AI legislations, President Donald Trump enacted a comprehensive executive order aimed at preventing states from imposing regulations on the rapidly expanding AI sector. Trump's administration pledged to collaborate with Congress to formulate a national AI policy characterized by minimal burdens. This marked a significant win for technology giants, who have been rallying significant funding to resist AI regulations, contending that a fragmented approach would hinder innovation.

Looking ahead to 2026, the conflict is expected to migrate to the courts. While some states may retract their AI regulations, others are likely to proceed with more stringent laws.

Tracking Measles Outbreaks Through Wastewater Management

This week marks the sad anniversary of Texas reporting its first measles case—a significant outbreak that unfolded across numerous states. Since January 2025, over 2,500 confirmed measles cases have surfaced in the US, with three fatalities recorded. As vaccination rates decline and outbreaks persist, scientists are experimenting with innovative methods to swiftly identify new cases and curtail the spread of the disease. Early results suggest that wastewater surveillance could prove effective.

Emerging Trends in Technology

Here are a few critical updates affecting tech and society:

1. US Disintegration: A foreign adversary couldn't devise a more effective method to weaken America's global influence.
2. Big Tech's Growing Debt: Companies are accumulating vast amounts of debt to support their AI aspirations.
3. Data Security Risks: The extent of personal data risks linked to DOGE remains undisclosed by the administration.
4. TikTok's New US Entity: Years of uncertainty regarding the app's future in America are finally resolved.
5. US Withdrawal from WHO: Officially leaving the World Health Organization without settling substantial financial commitments will have lasting repercussions.
6. AI in Democracy: AI-driven disinformation campaigns present new threats to democratic processes.
7. Robotics Revolution: Expect a rise in the presence of robots across various sectors.
8. Loneliness Epidemic: Some individuals are particularly susceptible to feelings of solitude in today's digital age.
9. AI Failures: An academic loses two years of work due to reliance on ChatGPT for data storage.
10. Animal Navigation: Research highlights how animals utilize landmarks to form mental maps.

Insightful Quote

"The rate at which AI is progressing, I think we have AI that is smarter than any human this year, and no later than next year." —Elon Musk

Addressing Hunger in Africa

Africa is tackling a global hunger crisis by turning to its indigenous crops considered more nutritious and resilient to climate change. Researchers, farmers, and governments must collaborate to enhance the cultivation and consumption of these crops to ensure food security in sub-Saharan Africa.