Newborn babies must replace their entire blood supply within their first few
days. If the haemoglobin from their fetal blood does not break down fast enough,
a pigment called bilirubin can build up, causing jaundice and possibly brain
damage. The treatment is to expose the babies to ultraviolet light. Nappies
(diapers) block UV, so Patricia Millner, a nurse at Hershey Medical Center in
Pennsylvania, has designed one made of a swimsuit fabric that allows 87 per cent
of the UV through. This cuts by a third the time babies must spend under hot UV
lights. So far, no major company is producing her invention.
More from 91av
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Space
One of NASA’s crucial links to deep space is at risk of burning down
News
Life
Clothes made from living fungi can clean and repair themselves
News
Environment
Earth is heating up faster than at any time in its history
Comment
Health
Having a young biological age could help with weight loss
News
Popular articles
Trending 91av articles