The article discusses the top fungal infection stories of the year, highlighting the spread of cat-transmitted sporotrichosis to the U.S. and the first reported case of a sexually transmitted fungal infection in the country. It emphasizes the importance of awareness and vigilance in diagnosing and treating fungal infections, mentioning the need for confirming diagnoses before…
Tryngolza (olezarsen) has been FDA-approved as an adjunct to diet for reducing triglycerides in adults with familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS), a condition that can lead to life-threatening acute pancreatitis. It significantly reduces triglyceride levels and the risk of acute pancreatitis when combined with a low-fat diet. The approval was based on a successful phase 3…
Alcon Laboratories has issued a voluntary recall of its Systane Lubricant Eye Drops Ultra PF after discovering fungal contamination in one lot. The contamination was discovered following a consumer complaint, and while no adverse events have been reported, Alcon has initiated the recall out of caution. Consumers are advised to stop using the product and…
President Joe Biden signed the HEARTS Act, aiming to give schools resources for handling heart health emergencies. The act includes CPR training, AED purchases, and cardiac emergency response plans. Supported by Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who suffered cardiac arrest during a football game, the act aims to improve survival rates for victims. Cardiac arrest…
Enhanced brain imaging techniques are helping to detect epileptogenic lesions more rapidly, leading to improved surgical outcomes for epilepsy patients. The use of detailed imaging options during presurgical consultation, such as 3D imaging and 7T MRI, can help identify focal lesions that traditional MRI may miss. Functional imaging is also beneficial for cases where initial…
A study found that children and adolescents with multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibit various symptoms and diagnoses within five years before their diagnosis. The study included 1,091 pediatric MS patients and compared them to controls without MS or with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Children with MS were more likely to have certain health issues such as obesity,…
In 2024, there were updates to clinical guidance covering various medical topics, including progress on COVID-19 prevention, treatment, and ART for HIV. The CDC recommended counseling specific patients on the use of doxycycline for post-exposure prophylaxis, and issued baseline guidelines for syphilis testing due to spikes in syphilis and congenital syphilis cases. The WikiGuidelines group…
The CDC reported that the bird flu virus likely mutated in a Louisiana patient. The mutations may allow the virus to better bind to receptors in the airways of humans, raising concerns but not alarm. The virus has caused sporadic mild illnesses in the U.S., mostly in farm workers. The Louisiana patient, hospitalized in critical…
In a presentation at Eyecelerator@AAO, Michael Coote discussed positive safety and efficacy data for PA5108, an ocular implant for glaucoma treatment. The phase 2 clinical trial showed statistically significant improvements in intraocular pressure (IOP) equivalent to topical latanoprost over 48 weeks. Coote, a principal investigator for PolyActiva, stated that PA5108 has met its requirements and…
Psychedelic substances such as esketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA are being reintroduced as potential therapies for severe psychiatric disorders. While some countries have approved esketamine-based antidepressants and substances like MDMA and psilocybin for certain conditions, the evidence supporting these treatments is weak. The unique effects of psychedelics pose challenges in standard double-blind clinical trials, potentially skewing…
Throughout 2024, data on STDs showed mixed results, with some areas seeing slower rates of infection and even disease elimination, while others showed hospitals failing to follow CDC guidance. Twelve stories were compiled, highlighting the ongoing battle to end STDs in different patient populations. The latest CDC data showed high rates of STDs, but progress…
Despite bans or deep restrictions in many Republican-controlled states, abortions have become slightly more common. The legal and political fights over the future of abortions are ongoing, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Abortion pills have become a significant part of the equation, with telehealth prescriptions increasing. Travel for abortions…
A study published in Age and Ageing found that increased intake of ultraprocessed foods is linked to accelerated biological aging. Researchers discovered that for every 10% increase in ultraprocessed food consumption, biological age increased by 2.4 months. The study included 16,055 participants aged 20 to 79 years and found that those with higher consumption of…
The article discusses the impact of screen time on young people during the holidays, highlighting concerns about social media, online gaming, mental health, and well-being. It emphasizes the need for balance and responsible use of technology, acknowledging both the negative effects and positive aspects of online activities. The importance of regulating dangerous content, promoting access…
A study focuses on Setd2, a crucial enzyme in mouse embryonic development, particularly in histone modification H3K36me3. The research introduces a mouse model with a patient-derived Setd2 mutation, emphasizing the enzyme’s catalytic role and non-catalytic functions during development. The model exhibits similar defects to a complete knockout model, highlighting Setd2’s importance. RNA sequencing analysis reveals…
The FDA has approved tirzepatide (Zepbound, Eli Lilly) for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. This injectable drug is the first-ever treatment for OSA, and is used in combination with diet and exercise. The drug was initially approved for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. Clinical trials showed significant improvement…
Healio’s top FDA articles in ophthalmology for 2024 included updates on the approval of various treatments. This included the FDA clearing the Faros anterior cataract surgery system, approving the Vabysmo prefilled syringe for retinal diseases, and approving aflibercept biosimilars Yesafili and Opuviz. Additionally, the FDA granted rare pediatric disease and fast track designations to gildeuretinol,…
The biotech industry is expected to face surprises and challenges in the new year, including the potential impact of Donald Trump’s second term and financial strain on startups due to economic projections. Despite this, trends like looking outside the U.S. for innovation and the growth of certain drugs for various conditions are expected to persist….
A report commissioned by the Ruderman Family Foundation found that police and firefighters are at higher risk of depression, PTSD, and suicide compared to the general population. At least 33 first responders in Georgia have died by suicide since 2018. The Hale Foundation attempted to establish Valor Station to help first responders struggling with PTSD…
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin, along with international partners, conducted a study published in Nature Aging that explores the impact of societal inequality on the brain. The research revealed a direct link between structural inequality measured by a country-level index (GINI) and changes in brain structure and connectivity associated with aging and dementia. Higher inequality…
Researchers have found a link between the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and the immune response associated with CD83 antibody in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. The study showed CD83-positive microglia in the brain are associated with HCMV in the gut, increased IgG4 levels, and HCMV in the brain and vagus nerve. Antiviral therapy may help prevent dementia…
In 2024, Healio Dermatology’s expert Q&A sessions covered a range of topics, including the CMS 2025 physician fee schedule, celebrity news, and more. The top Q&A sessions included discussions on the impact of cuts to the physician fee schedule, Kim Kardashian’s use of tanning beds for psoriasis, the benefits of permanent makeup for dermatological diseases,…
In 2025, people with disabilities face significant challenges. Donald Trump’s second term includes potential cuts to Medicaid and the appointment of a vaccine critic to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. The use of artificial intelligence in healthcare could worsen disparities for marginalized communities. Medicaid automation systems have led to errors disenrolling eligible…
Australia has a high rate of skin cancer, with nearly 19,000 invasive melanoma diagnoses each year. While early detection of melanoma is crucial, there is no national screening program in Australia. Screening everyone for skin cancer is complex due to concerns about overdiagnosis, cost-effectiveness, and potential harms of unnecessary treatments. Targeting high-risk groups has shown…
The study focused on the impact of the Nlgn3R451C mutation on the cerebellum in mice, particularly on the projections from cerebellar nuclei to different brain regions. The mutation was found to alter innervation patterns, with increased connections to the zona incerta (ZI). Chemogenetic inhibition of specific neurons in the ZI helped alleviate social deficits in…
Healio highlights key research, topics, and news in orthopedic spine surgery in 2024. One article discusses the challenges faced by disc replacement surgery due to surgical skepticism and insurance barriers. Another article mentions a machine learning model that accurately predicted outcomes after lumbar disc herniation surgery. Decompression with lumbar facet arthroplasty was found to have…
A palliative medicine doctor shares the story of her patient, Teresa, who suffered from advanced cancer and relied on morphine for pain relief. Due to DEA cuts to opioid production quotas, pharmacies often ran out of stock, causing Teresa to struggle to access her medication. The doctor emphasizes that opioids are essential for managing pain…
Macros, short for macronutrients, consist of protein, carbohydrates, and fats found in all foods in varying ratios. Proteins build muscle and have other essential roles in the body, while carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source. Fats, including healthy options like omega-3s, are also important for overall health. Calories are important for weight management, with…
Mitochondrial calcium signaling plays a critical role in energy metabolism and calcium balance, but accurate monitoring is difficult due to pH fluctuations. Existing fluorescent calcium indicators are sensitive to pH changes, leading to inaccuracies in measurements. TurCaMP, a new GECI developed from mTurquoise2, offers an inverse response to calcium transients and is pH insensitive within…
A study analyzing TikTok videos on neuraxial labor analgesia found low overall quality, with 10% of videos containing inaccurate information. Medical sources had higher quality scores but still fell below professional standards. The study evaluated 266 English-language videos from June 17 to 20, 2024, using keywords like “epidural” and “epidural risks.” Inaccurate information was present…
Allison J. Applebaum, PhD, is leading the new Center for Caregiving at Mount Sinai and will also serve as professor of geriatrics and palliative medicine. Previously, she was the founding director of the Caregiving Clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where she focused on providing psychosocial care to family caregivers of cancer patients. Applebaum’s…
In a survey conducted among STAT readers, several important topics emerged as underdiscussed in 2024 and areas of focus for 2025 in the life sciences field. These include the challenges faced by foreign-born caregivers in the healthcare sector, the importance of building trust through humanism in healthcare innovation, the need for enforcing rules on copay…
A recent outbreak of unexplained deaths in southwestern Democratic Republic of Congo was determined to be caused by a combination of infections, including malaria and common respiratory viruses, as well as malnutrition. The World Health Organization reported that children under five accounted for around half of the cases and deaths. The outbreak, which started in…
A study from the University of Gothenburg found that digital healthcare consultations are not sufficient for assessing tonsillitis, increasing the risk of over- or undertreatment. Tonsillitis often leads to antibiotic prescriptions, and doctors use Centor Criteria for diagnosis, including fever and swollen lymph nodes. The study compared digital and physical assessments of 189 patients and…
The scientific report providing guidance for the next Dietary Guidelines for Americans has sparked controversy for its focus on plant-based foods. The report emphasizes the benefits of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and reducing saturated fats, sugar, and salt. Meat consumption is recommended to be limited, with more emphasis on plant-based protein sources. The report also suggests…
The public health community is facing a crisis in confidence, eroded by a lack of public support for basic measures like vaccines and fluoride. Staff turnover and challenges have strained resources, while public health advocates must address failures and regain trust from a skeptical public. The Covid-19 response, although successful, led to resentment and skepticism….
The FDA has approved the subcutaneous injection of nivolumab and hyaluronidase-nvhy (Opdivo Qvantig) for adults with solid tumors. This approval is based on the results of the CHECKMATE-67T study, showing a similar safety profile to the intravenous form of the drug. The drug is indicated for various cancers, including renal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and lung…
In April 2017, scientists protested budget cuts to medical research proposed by the Trump administration. The March for Science rally in Boston challenged Trump’s denial of climate change and plans to cut funding for medical research. Concerns are now rising as Trump selects Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human…
The FDA has approved Ryoncil, a mesenchymal stromal cell therapy, for treating steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease in pediatric patients aged 2 months and older. Ryoncil is the first FDA-approved MSC therapy derived from healthy adult human donors and used for treating SR-aGVHD in patients who have undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The safety and…
Faricimab was approved in Europe for treating macular oedema due to retinal vein occlusion. The German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care examined its benefits over other therapies but found no proof of added benefit. Studies comparing faricimab with aflibercept did not meet specified treatment regimens, making the assessment inconclusive. The manufacturer did…
Impairment in cardiac baroreflex sensitivity is linked to a higher risk of dementia and mortality in older adults not taking antihypertensive medications. A study of 1819 older adults found that reduced baroreflex sensitivity was associated with an increased risk of dementia, especially in those not taking antihypertensive medication. Monitoring baroreflex sensitivity could be a useful…
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs pyramid explains human psychology and motivation, emphasizing the importance of meeting basic physiological needs before achieving higher meaning. This concept can be applied to employer-sponsored benefits, with benefits promoting gastrointestinal (GI) health as essential due to its impact on overall wellness. GI health is interconnected with immunity, mental health, heart health,…
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in JAMA Network Open suggests that daily step counts of 5,000 or more can reduce depressive symptoms in adults. The study included 33 studies and found that step counts between 5,000 to 10,000 or more were associated with fewer depressive symptoms. The researchers highlighted the potential mechanisms behind this…
Aetna, owned by CVS Health, is suing Radiology Partners, accusing them of overcharging and abusing the federal arbitration process for out-of-network medical claims. The lawsuit sheds light on billing tactics in the US healthcare system and the complexities of the federal arbitration system created by the No Surprises Act. Aetna alleges that Radiology Partners engaged…
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics shows disparities in firearm and motor vehicle crash fatalities among youth in the United States. From 2011 to 2021, there were 35,684 firearm and 40,735 motor vehicle fatalities among children and youths aged 0 to 19. The study found differences in rates based on age, sex, race, and ethnicity,…
Singapore has been ranked top among Asian nations and in the top 10 globally for readiness to address challenges of an aging population. The study by researchers from NUS and Columbia University developed a new measure, the Global Aging Index, to assess 143 countries’ preparedness for population aging. Singapore excelled in well-being, security, and productivity….
The CDC analyzed samples from the first severe case of bird flu in the U.S. last week, finding mutations not seen in samples from an infected backyard flock. The patient’s sample showed mutations in the hemagglutinin gene. The risk to the general public remains low. The patient had the D1.1 genotype of the virus, different…
Wearable device company ŌURA has secured $200 million in Series D funding to expand its product offerings. Founded in Finland in 2013, ŌURA offers the Oura Ring, which provides insights on sleep, activity, readiness, stress, resilience, women’s health, and heart health. The funding, led by Fidelity Management & Research Company and Dexcom, brings the company’s…
The bathroom is a frequently used room in the home, but is often overlooked in terms of accessibility and comfort. The VOCIC Electric Raised Toilet Seat offers a solution for individuals with mobility challenges, providing medical benefits for the elderly, those recovering from surgery, and people with disabilities. The seat reduces strain on joints and…
The FDA has proposed a rule that would require manufacturers of talc-containing cosmetic products to use standardized testing methods to detect asbestos, a known carcinogen. Manufacturers will need to test their products using specific methods or provide a certificate of analysis from the talc supplier. Talc is commonly used in cosmetics for various purposes, but…