News Above the Noise—Week of March 9, 2025

1. Are We Headed Towards a Russian-Style Oligarchy?
In a recent post for her Substack, Letters from an American, historian Heather Cox Richardson illustrates the connections between the fall of the Soviet Union, Russian interference in the U.S. political system, and Elon Musk’s dismantling of the federal government. It feels like America is aligning itself with Russia and moving away from the Western democracies in Europe. How did we get here? And did Russia play a hand?

2. Measles Is Back. Do You Need a Booster?
With 200 reported cases of measles this year so far, it’s a good time to check your vaccination status. Depending on what year you were born, you may need another shot. This guide from The New York Times can help you determine if you or your loved ones are at risk.

3. Women’s Brains Could Shine a Light on the Cause and Effects of Alzheimer’s
Two thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women, but the current research studies are still focused on men. Here’s why women’s brains might hold the key to dementia: its cause and development, the effects on the brain and overall health, and the solutions to prevent or slow down the disease. Plus, discover some helpful tips to protect your cognition as you age.
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