A new study by the Lancet reveals that over 1 billion people worldwide are living with obesity in 2022, with rates doubling among adults and quadrupling among children since 1990. Despite a decrease in undernutrition, it remains a challenge in certain regions. Countries with the highest rates of both underweight and obesity are in the…
When Laura Wells was diagnosed with MS at 39, her focus on health was sporadic due to raising young kids. After kids grew older, she struggled with worsening MS symptoms but found yoga helped her stay active. Wells emphasizes the importance of small daily exercise, healthy eating, and balance in managing MS symptoms. She also…
A study found that full-dose challenges of beta-lactam antibiotics in emergency department patients with moderate, severe, or unknown allergies can safely reduce unnecessary antibiotic regimens, save costs, and preserve future antibiotic effectiveness. The study analyzed data from 184 patients with beta-lactam allergies treated in the ED, with 90% reporting penicillin allergies. Allergic reactions were noted…
Tuberculosis (TB) is a deadly infectious disease that annually kills over a million people worldwide. Recent research has revealed a new risk associated with TB infection: an increased likelihood of developing various types of cancers. TB primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, leading to complications such as tissue…
The National Medical Commission (NMC) has announced an extension for the submission of annual declaration details by medical colleges. The last date for submission has been extended, but no specific date has been mentioned. This extension allows medical colleges more time to complete and submit the necessary details. By using cookies for analytics and advertising,…
The artificial intelligence (AI) market is expected to exceed $400 billion by 2027, driving demand for professionals with expertise in machine learning, especially in the healthcare sector. To stay competitive, healthcare corporations and academia must empower ambidextrous professionals with skills in both AI and health science. Large healthcare companies are integrating AI to improve efficiencies,…
The National Children’s Research Centre has been incorporated into Children’s Health Ireland, which is expected to improve the hospital’s ability to care for children. The NCRC has been based on the CHI at Crumlin campus and has worked to promote children’s health research and improve child health outcomes in Ireland. The incorporation brings its functions,…
The way patients interact with their doctors is changing, potentially affecting access to and quality of care in the future. More than 100 million Americans lack regular access to primary care, despite a rise in demand partially due to Affordable Care Act enrollment. The traditional model of seeing the same doctor for decades is shifting…
A study found that severe joint pain is more prevalent in Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Alaska Native patients with arthritis compared to white patients. Less than 60% of patients receive counseling on physical activity, regardless of race. The research, based on data from the CDC 2019 National Health Interview Survey, also showed disparities in…
Public concern has increased regarding the impact of social media on teen mental health following the U.S. surgeon general’s advisory. Calls to ban teens from social media apps have emerged, but researchers suggest that social media could actually offer support for adolescent mental health. Many teens, especially those with minoritized identities, rely on digital spaces…
Former US surgeon general Jerome Adams received a $5,000 medical bill for dehydration treatment in Arizona. He is calling for healthcare reforms to address the high costs and lack of transparency. Adams, a Black physician, highlights the struggles of many Americans with medical debt. He suggests market-based reforms, including more transparency, an arbitration process for…
A recent study published in npj Parkinson’s Disease explores the relationship between Parkinson’s disease (PD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). PD is a common neurodegenerative disease with symptoms like tremors and stiffness, while IBS is a gastrointestinal disease with abdominal discomfort and bowel alterations. The study utilized data from the UK Biobank and found that…
More than half of American women aged 18-49 masturbate regularly, both single and in relationships. Masturbation is a stigma-free way to boost mood, release stress, and increase sexual comfort and confidence. It can help women explore their desires, improve sexual experiences, and experiment with different sensations to reach orgasm. For women experiencing changes during menopause,…
Diet plays a crucial role in managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with key recommendations including elevating the head of the bed, allowing a gap between meals and bedtime, and weight loss. Caloric intake and lipid content in meals impact esophagogastric physiology, with high-calorie, high-fat, or high-carbohydrate meals promoting reflux symptoms. Recent studies highlight the benefits…
Maintaining a healthy weight is important for reducing cardiovascular risks in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A study presented at the European Congress on Obesity found that for diabetes patients under 65, a BMI between 23 and 25 kg/m² is ideal, while those over 65 benefit from a BMI between 26 and 28 kg/m². The…
In the Bhubaneshwar Doctor Couple murder case, five persons have been sentenced to life imprisonment. The couple was brutally murdered, and the perpetrators have been held accountable for their actions. This case has brought justice to the victims and their families. The sentencing of the perpetrators marks the culmination of a long and difficult legal…
Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) health issues like rectal bleeding and inflammatory bowel disease need timely colonoscopies and endoscopies for individualized treatment plans. However, insurance practices like prior authorization often delay or deny necessary care, leading to adverse health impacts, hospitalizations, and patients abandoning treatment. Insurers prioritize cost over patient health by requiring prior authorization for…
Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) is a leading cause of infant mortality and disability globally, affecting 2-3 per 1,000 live births in high-income countries and up to 30 per 1,000 live births in low and middle-income countries. Early recognition of HIE is crucial for improved outcomes. Advocacy for better understanding and support for infants with HIE…
A study found that psychological distress related to a cancer diagnosis can lead to intentional delays in treatment. Patients often felt an urgency to start treatment but also identified fear as a barrier. This fear could both result from treatment delays and drive them. Educating patients about their treatment regimen and providing anticipatory guidance may…
Adam’s Biotech Scorecard is a new newsletter offering insights on the biotech industry by senior reporter Adam Feuerstein. In the latest issue, topics include FDA approval for Akebia Therapeutics’ Vafseo, Gilead Sciences licensing an experimental cancer drug, and the world’s costliest drug, Lenmeldy, priced at $4.25 million. The newsletter also discusses immune senescence and potential…
Children and teenagers who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop high blood pressure as adults, according to new research presented at the European Congress on Obesity. The study found that even small increases in BMI during childhood and puberty can lead to higher blood pressure in midlife, increasing the risk of cardiovascular…
Researchers in a study published in Nature found that DNA damage in the hippocampus neurons during learning triggers a cascade of molecular events leading to memory formation. The study focused on the role of toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) in repairing the double-stranded DNA damage in neuronal clusters. Transcriptional profiles were analyzed in murine models subjected…
Parenting a teenager or tween can be challenging as they test limits and push boundaries. It is important to focus on your child’s interests and hobbies, even if you don’t fully understand them. Rather than relying solely on parenting books, trust your instincts and communicate your family’s values clearly. Stay involved and watch for signs…
The U.S. CDC has issued an advisory about an increase in invasive meningococcal disease, urging healthcare providers to ensure necessary vaccinations. Caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, the disease affects the brain, spinal cord, and bloodstream. There have been 143 reported cases so far this year, up from 81 at the same time last year,…
A recent study found that patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who have experienced recent exacerbations are more likely to continue receiving chest wall oscillation therapy. The therapy helps to improve lung function and reduce symptoms in COPD patients. The study suggests that patients with more severe disease and recent exacerbations may benefit…
This monthly roundup highlights major funding rounds in the payer/employer space. This month, HiLabs raised $39 million in Series B funding for its AI-driven data management products, Pelago secured $58 million in Series C funding for its virtual clinic for substance use management, Brightside Health received $33 million in Series C funding for its telemental…