September 2024

The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to read aloud to newborns and young children to foster relationships and promote brain development. The updated policy statement emphasizes the importance of shared reading for social-emotional, cognitive, language, and literacy development. The AAP recommends pediatricians to support families with guidance and books at well-child visits, prioritize offering…

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has launched a new academic journal, Advances in Cancer Education & Quality Improvement (ACE-QI), focusing on research, training program summaries, and quality improvement interventions for oncology providers. The journal aims to bridge gaps in education and clinical practice, improve patient outcomes, and enhance quality of care for…

Rates of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the most significant rise observed in 2021. A cross-sectional study using US mortality data from 2018 to 2021 showed an increased risk of SUID (IR 1.06) and SIDS (IR 1.10) during the pandemic. SUID rates rose…

Yoga wheels are versatile tools that improve flexibility, balance, and strength in your practice. They support deeper stretches, enhance balance, and help deepen backbends. Additionally, they can be incorporated into various exercises beyond yoga, making them a valuable addition for diversifying your workout routine. Various brands offer high-quality yoga wheels with different features such as…

Accessible worldwide biomanufacturing is essential for promoting global health, ensuring equitable access to treatments, and strengthening health systems and economies. Genetic and regional differences require tailored vaccines and drugs to meet diverse population needs. Precision medicine, adapting manufacturing methods, and prioritizing diverse perspectives are crucial for achieving manufacturing sovereignty and improving healthcare outcomes. Initiatives like…

Advances in migraine treatment and patient pathways at Tallaght University Hospital have improved outcomes and reduced hospital admissions. A survey by the Migraine Association of Ireland during Migraine Awareness Week revealed the impact of migraines on workplace productivity. The TUH headache clinic provides multi-disciplinary care, avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions and improving patient outcomes. The clinic…

Interdisciplinary researchers from Chinese universities have developed a miniature continuous glucose monitoring system using an organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) with a microneedle array and hydrogel. The system, comparable to market-leading devices like Dexcom G6, promises enhanced sensitivity, reliability, and wearability. OECTs operate in aqueous environments at low voltage with low power consumption, making them ideal…

Preston Nafz, a teenager who loved playing lacrosse, had to undergo a sports hernia repair surgery due to persistent pain in his left hip. The procedure cost $7,105, but his father had to pay upfront as the surgery did not have a specific billing code for insurers. After the surgery, the father filed a claim…

In a video perspective from the Women in Ophthalmology Summer Symposium, Dr. Nataliya Danylkova encourages international ophthalmologists to attend the annual meeting held in Carlsbad, California. The goal of the Women in Ophthalmology organization is to unify women ophthalmologists from different countries and empower them to feel comfortable in professional settings. Dr. Danylkova, who serves…

At the U.N. General Assembly, all countries approved a declaration to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), threatening modern medicine. AMR is caused by misuse of antibiotics, leading to deadly diseases. It poses a global threat and affects low-income countries the most. The declaration aims to reduce deaths by 10% by 2030 and ensure safe antibiotics usage….

After months of industrial action, resident doctors in the UK have voted to accept a pay deal offered by the government. The deal, although divisive, includes previously agreed increases, back payments, and a lump sum. Many doctors feel disappointed by the outcome of the vote, with some feeling let down by the government’s lack of…

Identifying biomarkers for suicidal ideation could help doctors assess suicide risk and develop interventions. While functional MRI is costly, researchers like Madhukar Trivedi from UT Southwestern are exploring alternatives like EEG. A study on 111 individuals with depression or bipolar disorder showed dysfunction in the brain’s default mode network in those with suicidal ideation. The…

A new study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center has demonstrated the use of a genetic analysis method called DRIVE to identify undiagnosed cases of Long QT syndrome. This rare genetic disorder can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities and sudden cardiac death. The researchers identified carriers of disease-causing genetic variants by analyzing shared genomic segments among…

The US FDA has approved Cobenfy, a new antipsychotic for schizophrenia that targets cholinergic receptors instead of dopamine receptors. Developed by Bristol Myers Squibb, it combines xanomeline and trospium chloride to treat schizophrenia symptoms. The drug met its primary endpoints in phase 3 trials, showing significant reductions in symptoms compared to placebo. It has a…

Nebulizers are small devices that deliver medications directly to the lungs through inhalation therapy, converting liquid drugs into aerosols for easy inhalation. They offer various benefits for respiratory care, treating conditions from asthma to lung infections. There are three main types of nebulizers: Jet, Ultrasonic, and Mesh Nebulizers. Using a nebulizer involves setting up the…

Health systems have seen improved operating margins, but 40% of hospitals in the US are losing money. Optimizing patient flow through efficient bed utilization is crucial for financial success. Artificial intelligence (AI) can help forecast resource allocation and improve patient outcomes. Common challenges in patient flow include inefficient transfers, delays in discharge planning, tedious barriers,…

The content discusses how funding for horse and greyhound racing industries in Ireland takes precedence over providing essential health services for children. The government has granted over €1.7 billion to these industries while children wait in agony for essential surgeries. The author argues that this funding should be reallocated to prioritize children’s healthcare, as the…

Qure.ai has secured $65 million in funding to invest in foundational AI models and acquire complementary startups in medical technology, as well as expand in the US and other markets. Korean firm Mediwhale has raised $12 million to seek US FDA approval for its AI-based Reti-CVD solution. Huawei has launched a new AI-powered medical imaging…

KFF Health News correspondents discussed important health issues on various radio shows. Cara Anthony spoke about healing from racial trauma on “America’s Heroes Group,” Andy Miller discussed Medicaid expansion in Georgia on WUGA’s “The Georgia Health Report,” and Aneri Pattani talked about the series “Payback: Tracking the Opioid Settlement Cash” on Scripps News’ “Morning Rush.”…

Richard A. Furie, MD, discussed the challenges in managing antiphospholipid syndrome at the 2024 Congress of Clinical Rheumatology West. He highlighted the difficulties in preventing the first thrombosis and better preventing the second. Prophylactic aspirin has shown inadequacies, and warfarin is burdensome for patients. Furie suggested complement inhibition as an alternative treatment. Conducting research in…

The CDC reported that four additional healthcare workers in Missouri developed mild respiratory illness symptoms after caring for a patient with unexplained H5N1 bird flu infection. Although it is unclear if they were infected, the possibility of person-to-person spread is concerning. Missouri has identified a total of seven individuals who were ill after contact with…

During the pandemic, senior clinicians testified to the inquiry about the challenges faced by staff, likening the experience to a daily terrorist attack. Consultant anaesthetist Kevin Fong described the overwhelming scale of death witnessed in intensive care units, with staff experiencing traumatic conditions and shortages of resources. England’s chief medical officer, Chris Whitty, highlighted the…

With October approaching, the threat of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) remains in Massachusetts. Health officials have confirmed another case in a horse, bringing the total to three this year. EEE is a rare but serious and potentially fatal disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. In the past, outbreaks have resulted in human and animal cases, with…

UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers and physicians specializing in radiation therapies will present latest research at ASTRO meeting, showcasing 23 abstracts on key areas such as survivorship, lung cancer, sarcoma, and more. Noteworthy studies include a genetic signature predicting response to chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer, MRI-guided SBRT showing fewer side effects than CT-guided…

The HFSA cancelled its annual scientific meeting in Atlanta due to Hurricane Helene. Some content from the meeting will be delivered virtually, including livestreamed Late Breaking Clinical Research sessions on September 29 and 30. Recorded presentations will be available afterwards. The society is working on presenting other educational program content in alternative formats at a…

Massage guns have gained popularity for their ability to provide percussive therapy that helps muscles relax and relieve pain. They are beneficial for increasing blood flow, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation. Regular use can also improve mobility, reduce muscle stiffness, alleviate pain, and contribute to better sleep quality. While there are benefits, caution should be…

A new drug from Bristol Myers Squibb called Cobenfy has been approved by the FDA as a novel treatment for schizophrenia, offering better tolerability for patients. The drug targets muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the brain, providing a new approach to treating the disorder. Developed by Karuna Therapeutics, Cobenfy showed significant reductions in schizophrenia symptoms in…

Asthma is a global health concern affecting over 339 million people worldwide, with approximately 380,000 individuals in Ireland living with asthma. Effective management is essential to prevent exacerbations and improve quality of life. The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines recommend low-dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) as the primary treatment, with a focus on early intervention….

Wellth, a digital health startup offering financial rewards for health-related tasks, appointed John Snyder as COO. As a former healthcare CEO, Snyder aims to enhance company operations and expansion. He believes Wellth stands out in the digital health space by using AI for economic behavioral modification. To ensure sustainability, Snyder plans to simplify tech execution,…

Debra Ragoonanan, a nursing assistant at a state-run veterans home in Massachusetts, experienced health issues including a brain aneurysm following a deadly Covid-19 outbreak at the facility in 2020. The trauma of the outbreak continues to affect Ragoonanan and other caregivers who have reported symptoms of PTSD and long-lasting effects. Investigations into the outbreak led…

Hospitalized older adults have a higher risk of death from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) compared to influenza B, though the risk is similar to influenza A. Improved testing strategies and outreach could lower the risk for death. A study found that RSV infections can be equally severe and deadly as influenza, especially among older and…

Nana-Bilkisu Habib experienced intense pain and hospitalization after a mix-up with her sickle cell medication, Oxbryta, which was later recalled by Pfizer. Doctors and patients are grappling with the decision to taper patients off the drug to avoid potential risks. The withdrawal of Oxbryta has left many sickle cell patients uncertain about their treatment options,…

The word “academic” has its origins in Plato’s Academy and was initially used to describe someone who studied or taught at the academy. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various forms of learning institutions and eventually became associated with theoretical or impractical concepts. The phrase “groves of Academe” emerged as a metaphor for academic…

A study showed that an in-home, voice-activated cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program can improve insomnia symptoms among breast cancer survivors. The program was found to be effective in improving sleep quality, wake after sleep onset, sleep onset latency, and sleep efficiency, but did not have an impact on total sleep time. The study included 70…

EJ Beck, a former pediatric cancer patient at NYU Langone Health, was accepted into NYU Grossman School of Medicine, her top choice. She underwent treatment for a rare pediatric thyroid cancer, experiencing surgery and radioactive iodine therapy. Her transformation from patient to aspiring doctor showcases NYU Langone’s impact on future clinicians and her mission to…

Maternal short sleep duration during pregnancy can increase the risk of neurodevelopmental delays in offspring, especially in boys. A study followed 7059 mother-child pairs, excluding those with certain conditions. Maternal sleep data was collected using questionnaires, and neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed in children at different ages. The study found that boys were more affected by…

Elastic bandages are essential tools for sports injuries and everyday recovery needs. They offer support and compression to manage injuries, reduce swelling, and promote faster recovery. These bandages are versatile and widely used in various applications, from sports performance enhancement to wound care. Featuring breathable and lightweight materials, they ensure comfort and mobility during prolonged…

Healthcare providers are rapidly adopting AI technology, with increased tech spending reported over the past year. Dr. Arash Harzand, a cardiology professor and chief health officer, highlighted challenges in AI adoption, such as data generalization and high costs. He believes that computer vision-based AI tools will have the most impact in cardiology, improving diagnostic accuracy…

Plaque psoriasis is a common chronic autoimmune disease characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. It affects 125 million people worldwide, with a higher prevalence in Caucasians. The condition can cause significant discomfort and emotional distress, impacting the quality of life. Treatment options include topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic treatments, and biologic therapies, tailored to…

Sure Med Compliance and Valet Health are partnering to provide a patient engagement program. The collaboration will allow patient quizzes to seamlessly integrate with various communication platforms, enabling automated patient contact. The analysis will include digital program ROI and service line evaluation tools. This collaboration aims to increase program utilization rates and reduce reliance on…

Pinedale, Wyoming is building its first hospital, a 10-bed facility that will include a long-term care unit, set to open by summer 2025. This is a rare occurrence in rural America where many hospitals are struggling or closing down. To combat this trend, some rural communities, like those in Wyoming, Kansas, and Georgia, are investing…

In this article, Dr. Robert A. Bonomo reflects on his career in infectious diseases (ID) and how he got hooked on the specialty. He discusses his early training in primary care and his interest in antimicrobial resistance, particularly drug-resistant gonorrhea. Dr. Bonomo emphasizes the comprehensive nature of ID, which allows him to understand patient care…

Get your daily health and medicine news with STAT’s Morning Rounds newsletter. Researchers found a link between oral bacteria and head and neck cancer, leading to a 50% higher risk. FDA plans to regulate food additives more closely. In other news, Pfizer pulled its sickle cell pill from the market. D.C. officials discuss pandemic preparedness…

Jennifer Darlow, a consultant paediatric haematologist in Manchester, UK, highlights the incredible work and dedication of NHS staff, despite recent claims of the service being “broken.” While there are challenges such as spiraling costs and missed targets, the NHS still provides world-leading care. Darlow emphasizes the importance of maintaining public trust in the NHS, as…

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that omitting biopsy in patients with negative MRI results reduces the risk of detecting clinically insignificant prostate cancer. The study involved men aged 50 to 60 who underwent PSA screening and MRI of the prostate. Results showed that men in the MRI-targeted biopsy group…

World leaders gathered in New York, pledging $100 million to fight drug-resistant bacteria, a global crisis affecting both rich and poor countries. Antibiotics are losing effectiveness, causing nearly 5 million deaths annually. The political declaration aims to reduce antimicrobial resistance deaths by 10% by 2030. Low- and middle-income nations are hit hardest. Overuse of antibiotics…

Maternal hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is linked to a higher incidence of NICU admissions and small-for-gestational-age births. In a study led by Dr. Brenna Hughes, researchers analyzed data from 249 individuals with HCV infection and 486 controls. They found a twofold increase in NICU admissions and nearly threefold increase in SGA births among mothers…

Iron deficiency is more prevalent in U.S. adults than previously thought, with 14% having absolute iron deficiency and 15% having functional iron deficiency. A study conducted on 8021 adults found that many individuals do not meet the necessary iron levels, leading to potential health issues. Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, dizziness, weakness, and other…

Pomelo Care, a maternity care company based in New York City, has acquired The Doula Network, a company based in Orlando, Florida. The acquisition allows Pomelo Care to offer in-person support in addition to its existing virtual care services. Patients can now access a full care team, including birth doulas, obstetricians, and pediatric care providers….

Dr. Dennis Slamon has been awarded the UCD Ulysses Medal from University College Dublin for his groundbreaking work in transforming the treatment of breast cancer and saving the lives of hundreds of thousands of women worldwide. The Ulysses Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the university, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding global contributions….