State and local governments are receiving billions of dollars in settlements from companies involved in the opioid crisis. KFF Health News has been tracking how this money is being used. BrownGreer, the administering firm, recently made settlement data public on a website, allowing users to see how much money their area has received or will…
A Cincinnati-based life sciences company, Asha Therapeutics, announced the advancement of its development candidate, ASHA-624, as a potential disease modifying therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ASHA-624 is an intra-molecular compound that targets the SARM1 protein, which promotes axonal degeneration and neurodegeneration in ALS. Preclinical models have shown that ASHA-624 can reverse motor impairment and…
Roivant Sciences is facing questions about whether its business model can survive its recent successes. The company’s drug brepocitinib showed positive results in a study for non-infectious uveitis, while also announcing a $1.5 billion stock buyback, including shares owned by Sumitomo. Many of Roivant’s drugs, including brepocitinib, were initially part of larger pharmaceutical companies like…
The Royal College of General Practitioners and the Faculty of Public Health have topped the climate and health scorecard, evaluating UK health organisations’ efforts to tackle the climate emergency. 19 organizations, including nine medical royal colleges, participated in the initiative, which assesses internal operations, finance, education, and advocacy. Experts from various fields contributed to the…
A team of scientists from the German Cancer Research Center has developed a new method called “Small-Scale Magneto-Oscillatory Localization” (SMOL) to track and control miniature robots and surgical instruments inside the body in real-time. The method is based on a magnetic oscillator that can be excited to vibrate mechanically and then detected using magnetic sensors….
Individuals with heart disease have the most to gain from a low-sodium diet, as consuming too much sodium can raise blood pressure and worsen conditions like heart failure. The recommended limit is 1,500 mg/day, but most people with heart disease consume over twice that amount. Adhering to a low-sodium diet can reduce the risk of…
Rochelle Pagano, in her mid-40s, experienced anxiety and mood changes as she entered menopause. With symptoms like heart palpitations, anxiety, and depression, she realized that hormonal fluctuations were causing these issues. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating, exercise, deep breathing, meditation, and dietary supplements helped her manage her symptoms. Treatments for menopause anxiety include antidepressants, cognitive…
The FDA has approved danicopan as an add-on therapy for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) who are receiving ravulizumab or eculizumab. PNH is a rare blood disorder that can result in life-threatening complications such as anemia, thrombosis, and bone marrow dysfunction. Danicopan, an oral complement factor D inhibitor, helps control intravascular hemolysis and prevent…
Researchers have found that a ketogenic diet can improve both metabolic and psychiatric symptoms in patients with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These individuals often experience side effects from antipsychotic medications, such as weight gain and insulin resistance. A pilot study found that participants who followed a ketogenic diet with low carbs…
A hospital in Bengaluru performed a faulty fissures operation that resulted in complications for the patient. The doctor responsible for the operation was slapped with a compensation claim as a result. The incident highlights the importance of proper medical procedures and the potential consequences of medical negligence. This case serves as a reminder for healthcare…
The employee healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with factors such as new regulations, more vendor options, and advances in technology driving the need for change. Consultants are facing challenges in meeting the diverse needs of their clients, requiring a broader knowledge base and a more expansive role. A survey is being conducted to gather insights…
A survey conducted ahead of the Irish Medical Organisation’s AGM revealed that the majority of non-consultant hospital doctors feel that long hours, lack of support, and challenging working conditions are driving doctor emigration. Many NCHDs do not feel valued or supported in their work and are regularly working unsafe and illegal hours. The survey also…
Unauthorized enrollment or plan-switching in Affordable Care Act insurance plans is becoming a serious issue, as rogue agents can easily access policyholder accounts through the federal marketplace. This can lead to consumers being switched to different plans without their consent, causing them to potentially face issues with doctors, prescriptions, and back taxes. Federal regulators are…
A retrospective cohort study of 2,459 adults with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs) found that there was a significant decrease in the risk of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) among patients with rheumatic diseases. Risk factors for PASC were similar to those of the general population, with patients with lupus showing more cardiovascular, dermatologic, and…
The National Residency Match for medical graduates this year revealed worrying trends, particularly in the field of pediatrics. Despite an increase in applicants, a lower proportion of graduates chose pediatrics as their specialty, with nearly 30% of pediatric residency programs left unfilled. The decline in interest is attributed to low compensation for pediatricians compared to…
Rodrigo de Oliveira Andrade, a freelance journalist from São Paulo, Brazil, examines the reasons behind the decline in childhood immunization coverage in the country and what measures have been taken to address it. Brazil has shown an increase in vaccine coverage for eight childhood vaccines in 2023 compared to the previous year. Notably, vaccinations for…
The cerebellum, known as the “little brain,” is crucial for coordinating movement, balance, and learning. A study led by the Champalimaud Foundation reveals the importance of climbing fibers in the cerebellum for associative learning. By manipulating these fibers using optogenetics, researchers found that they are essential for teaching signals that drive learning. Surprisingly, introducing a…
A review article discusses the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosing and treating brain tumors, highlighting challenges in management and the need for precise care. Diffuse midline glioma and glioblastoma are among the toughest tumors to treat with current methods. AI offers advantages in tumor analysis, providing detailed imaging, optimized workflows, and accurate tumor…
Advancements in treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, such as biologic drugs, have drastically improved the outlook for those with the condition. Biologics, which target specific parts of the immune system, work faster and more effectively than traditional DMARDs like methotrexate. Different types of biologics are available to treat RA, including TNF inhibitors, interleukin blockers, and JAK…
Nonprofit hospitals originally created to serve the poor are now offering concierge physician services for annual membership fees exceeding $2000. Critics argue that this trend exacerbates primary care shortages and benefits only the affluent, driving up healthcare costs. Doctors limit their practices to a few hundred patients to provide immediate access and longer visits. Tax-exempt…
Autism, a developmental disability that affects behavior, communication, and learning, is important to understand on World Autism Awareness Day. It affects 1% of children globally and can last a lifetime, with symptoms varying in severity. Genetics and certain risk factors like exposure to pollution or birth complications play a role. Signs of autism include social…
The National Medical Commission (NMC) has listed down 68 courses in 16 medical institutes to increase postgraduate medical seats. This move aims to address the shortage of doctors in the country. The NMC is working towards expanding the number of postgraduate medical seats to improve healthcare services. By adding more courses in existing medical institutes,…
Rejoyn, a software app developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Click Therapeutics, has received FDA clearance as the first prescription digital therapeutic for treating major depressive disorder. The app offers cognitive behavioral therapy lessons, exercises, and reminders in a digital format, intended for use three times weekly for six weeks. Clinical trials showed a trend favoring…
Patients with essential tremor have an increased risk of developing dementia compared to the general population. A study presented at the 2024 American Academy of Neurology meeting found that patients with essential tremor had higher rates of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, leading to loss of functional ability and increased mortality. The study followed…
LG NOVA is exploring the potential for consumer electronics to collect personalized health data for preventative care measures. Atul Singh of LG NOVA discusses how the company is working with hospitals to maximize the value of their hardware through virtual health services such as telehealth and patient monitoring. They are also developing capabilities for ambient…
En enero, Susanne Gilliam, de 67 años, se cayó al resbalar sobre una capa de hielo negro mientras recogía el correo, causando lesiones en la rodilla y tobillo. Este incidente desencadenó múltiples visitas médicas y tratamientos, que se sumaron a la complejidad del sistema de salud de Estados Unidos. La falta de coordinación y especialización…
Breakthroughs in brain health, particularly in concussion assessment and treatment, have been slow despite advances in technology like MRI. Objective brain wave measures, recorded through EEG, are emerging as a priority for providing real-time insights into cognitive brain function following concussive impacts. Point-of-care EEG devices are becoming increasingly accessible, allowing for rapid assessment of concussions…
Medicare Advantage insurers requested higher payment rates from the Biden administration, claiming that the government’s data on healthcare usage didn’t match their own. Despite lobbying efforts, the administration decided to stick with their proposed rates, causing a slight decrease in payment rates for insurers in 2025. This decision led to a drop in stock prices…
A new study based on Medicaid claims data found that children with chronic medical conditions who also have a sleep disorder are at a higher risk of increased healthcare utilization. The study showed that children with a diagnosed sleep disorder were nearly two times more likely to have increased healthcare utilization compared to those without…
Researchers used AI techniques to evaluate the association between built environment features identified by AI models and coronary heart disease (CHD). They used CNNs, LMEM, and activation maps to predict health outcomes at the census tract level using Google Street View images. The study found that AI algorithms could potentially reduce CHD burden by designing…
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that affects many people in the United States. It can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, treatments like Botox, nerve stimulation, and surgery. Keeping a bladder diary can help in understanding OAB symptoms, identifying behaviors that may contribute to the condition, and monitoring response to treatment. Tracking information…
New studies suggest that many women with cancer want advice on managing sexual function issues, often not addressed by clinicians. Patients want to discuss sex but find it overwhelming at the start of their diagnosis or treatment. There is a need for more integration of sexual health screening into gynecologic oncologic clinics. Barriers to discussing…
A recent study found that a combination of the drugs empagliflozin and citalopram is effective in treating major depressive disorder. The researchers discovered that this combination resulted in significant improvements in depressive symptoms compared to taking citalopram alone. Empagliflozin, a medication typically used to treat diabetes, was found to enhance the effects of citalopram, an…
A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke and Alzheimer’s disease, are the leading cause of disease burden worldwide. Neurodevelopmental disorders, age-related neurodegeneration, and emergent conditions like COVID-19 also impact the nervous system. The study estimated the global burden of 37 neurological disorders from 1990 to…
Otsuka Pharmaceuticals and Click Therapeutics have received FDA clearance for their smartphone-based prescription digital therapeutic, Rejoyn, for major depressive disorder. The six-week remote treatment program combines cognitive emotional training and therapeutic exercises to improve brain connections involved in depression. Expected to launch in 2024, Rejoyn is designed as a neuromodulatory mechanism to enhance brain function….
Fiona Lu, cuando estaba en noveno grado, sufrió de depresión y quería recibir terapia, pero su plan de Medi-Cal no cubría el servicio sin el consentimiento de un tutor. Lu se convirtió en activista para cambiar la ley y permitir a menores de 12 años recibir consejería de salud mental sin consentimiento de los padres….
A systematic review and meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials showed that tranexamic acid improved visualization, operative time, and postoperative pain scores for patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Researchers found that patients who received tranexamic acid had superior mean arthroscopic visual scores and lower postoperative pain scores compared to the control group. There was…
The Florida Supreme Court upheld the state’s ban on most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, allowing a subsequent six-week ban to take effect. The court, reshaped by Governor Ron DeSantis, ruled in favor of the 15-week ban signed in 2022, which was enforced while being challenged. A six-week ban passed in 2023 will soon…
A systematic review found that clinical practice guidelines lack guidance for managing elevated blood pressure in hospitalized patients without symptoms. This leads to inconsistent practices, with many patients experiencing higher blood pressures than recommended for outpatient care. While guidelines specify outpatient management, recommendations for inpatient care are limited to emergencies and lack instructions for transitional…
Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine received a grant to study the genetic risk associated with thyroid cancer, potentially preventing unneeded biopsies and surgeries. By analyzing data from biobanks, they aim to create a polygenic risk score to better quantify the risk of thyroid cancer. This research could lead to personalized management…
IgA nephropathy is difficult to predict, but having strong emotional and social support systems can improve long-term outcomes. It is important to maintain a fulfilling life despite the challenges of kidney disease. Peer support, such as talking to others with similar health conditions, can be beneficial. Finding kidney support groups and participating in activities with…
The GEMS-Rx list, developed by a panel of 10 ED physicians and a pharmacist, identifies high-risk medications that should not be prescribed to older patients in the emergency department (ED). This list includes first-generation antihistamines, metoclopramide, short-acting opioids, antipsychotics, barbiturates, skeletal muscle relaxants, benzodiazepines, “Z” drugs, and sulfonylureas. Exceptional cases where these medications may be…
A new study found that the level of physical activity needed to prevent obesity varies depending on an individual’s genetic risk. Researchers used genetic data from the All of Us Research Program to measure the genetic risk of higher body mass index (BMI) as a polygenic risk score (PRS) and physical activity as daily step…
A study has found that overweight or obese children and teenagers are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure as adults. This highlights the long-term health consequences of childhood obesity. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing weight issues in childhood to prevent future health complications such as hypertension. By continuing to use…
Digital databases for clinical trials have revolutionized healthcare by providing crucial information to patients and physicians. However, the sheer size and lack of standardization in these databases can make it challenging to find relevant trials. New technological advances are being developed to improve the search process, similar to how e-commerce platforms simplify product searches. Challenges…
The My Gynaecology Patient Passport has been launched by an Irish hospital, St James’s Hospital, for patients with gynaecological cancer. The passport, filled in by patients and clinicians at Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute, includes important information and resources related to the patient’s diagnosis and care plan. It aims to empower patients, improve communication between…
Hace casi 10 años, Karla Adkins descubrió que el blanco de sus ojos se había vuelto amarillo, lo que indicaba ictericia debido al abuso de alcohol. Tras una falla hepática, se dio cuenta de los peligros de su consumo. Actualmente, las enfermedades hepáticas relacionadas con el alcohol están aumentando más rápido en las mujeres que…
Viatris is launching Ryzumvi, the first FDA-approved eyedrop for reversing dilation, with an onset of action in 30 minutes. The drug was approved based on positive results from two trials involving 553 patients aged 12 to 80 years. Patients who received two drops of Ryzumvi showed a significant improvement in pupil diameter compared to those…
Stay informed on the latest in biotech by signing up for the newsletter. Recent developments include scientists discovering a way to target aggressive pediatric tumor cells using tumor-suppressor genes. A U.K. health agency’s decision on an ALS drug by Biogen raises concerns about access to genetic medicines. Generic versions of diabetes drugs could be more…
University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers have identified a gene on the Y chromosome that contributes to the higher incidence of heart failure in men. Y chromosome loss, seen in about 40% of 70-year-old men, leads to heart muscle scarring and deadly heart failure. The loss triggers changes in heart immune cells that promote…