The following two documents are taken from the Biology of Cancer and Anatomy and Physiology II, respectively. In the Biology of Cancer, I was able to focus on a semester-long research project investigating the effects of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) on inflammation-induced ovarian cancer. In Anatomy and Physiology II, I conducted a literature review on a controversial topic in the cardiovascular field.

Both of these research questions appeal to the public health and issues that are promenant in society today. Among women in the United States, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of death in cancers. Many women have acquired this disease due to talcum powder used for many years. This talcum powder leads to chronic inflammation, causing ovarian cancer for many women. This research conducted in this senior-level class displays the possibility of preventing the onset of the chronic inflammation that leads to ovarian cancer.

Controversy has surrounded the cardiovascular field for decades, wondering if it was safe to consume eggs, or if they caused heart disease. Every few years, there would be a new news story on TV, saying, “eggs cause heart disease, don’t eat them” or “it’s okay to eat eggs, only once a day.” Americans were battling a fight every time they went to the grocery store on their decision to buy eggs or not. I analyzed the literature in the field throughout the semester and I concluded that there is not sufficient evidence to suggest that eggs are detrimental to cardiovascular health. Indeed, the nutrients gained from consuming eggs is very beneficial.

I think that both of these classes provided the ability to apply biological contexts to modern issues in society. These are only two of the examples from my course-work through Longwood, as there are many more. I feel very confident in my abilities to apply biological examples to issues in society through the aid of these courses.