Regular exercise is known to boost immunity, but finding time for it can be challenging. A recent study suggests that just 15 minutes of moderate exercise can increase levels of natural killer (NK) cells, enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight infections and diseases. This quick boost in immunity can be beneficial for those with…

The Health Bulletin for April 8, 2024 states that cookies are used for analytics, advertising, and site improvement. By continuing to use the site, users agree to the use of cookies. Further information on cookies can be found in the Cookie Policy and Cookie Settings. Source link

The healthcare industry is facing a crisis of burnout among its workforce, with high percentages of healthcare workers considering leaving their roles. Factors contributing to this issue include low engagement, understaffing, and limited support. Recent strikes at major healthcare institutions highlight the urgent need for action. Strategies to address burnout and turnover include investing in…

Federal and state regulators are not adequately addressing the issue of rogue health insurance brokers making unauthorized policy switches for Affordable Care Act policyholders. This problem has led to policyholders being switched to plans that don’t include their doctors or medications, or have higher deductibles. Low-income consumers are often targeted, as they might not notice…

Dr. Eric D. Donnenfeld presented on Lacrifill for the treatment of dry eye disease at the ASCRS meeting. Lacrifill, made by Nordic Pharma Eye Care, is easy to insert, has good reimbursement, and is comfortable for patients. It occludes the punctum better than typical punctal occluders, resulting in better outcomes. A study presented at the…

After receiving a kidney transplant from a genetically modified pig, 62-year-old Richard Slayman experienced a rejection episode but recovered and left the hospital. He showed no further signs of distress and was able to resume normal activities he hadn’t done in over a year. The groundbreaking procedure involved a transplant of an engineered porcine kidney…

Consultant gastroenterologist Rajaratnam Mathialagan emphasizes the importance of reassuring and educating patients, as well as passing on essential skills to trainees. He believes that good patient care involves clear communication and thorough examination. Mathialagan is passionate about sharing his love of gastroenterology with trainees, highlighting the importance of gut health in overall well-being. His interest…

The ULTIMATE-DAPT study found that withdrawing aspirin one month after PCI in high-risk heart patients and keeping them on ticagrelor alone significantly reduces major bleeding by more than 50% compared to patients on aspirin and ticagrelor. This change in treatment did not increase adverse ischemic events. The study involved 3,400 ACS patients and was conducted…

Researchers reviewed the use of psychobiotics for treating depression through restoring microbial balance and regulating the microbiome-gut-brain axis. Dysbiosis, or gut microbiome imbalance, can affect the gut-brain axis, leading to microbial alterations that contribute to depression. Psychobiotics have positive effects on the gut barrier, immune responses, and hormone regulation, making them a potential treatment for…

Alexa Federico shares her journey with Crohn’s disease, starting with her diagnosis and hospitalization. She found her voice through sharing her story on Instagram, leading to the creation of the Girl In Healing brand aimed at empowering those with IBD to heal themselves. Through practical advice on managing symptoms and deeper emotional healing, Alexa expanded…

Research suggests that adults with excess weight or obesity tend to experience higher levels of pain intensity than those with a normal weight, possibly due to pathophysiological changes caused by obesity. A meta-analysis of 22 studies including over 31,000 adults found that individuals with excess weight or obesity reported higher pain intensities compared to those…

Millions in North America are eagerly anticipating the total solar eclipse happening today, a rare event not to be seen in the U.S. for another two decades. The path of totality will span 15 states, with the rest of the nation able to see at least a partial eclipse. Health experts warn of the dangers…

Aurobindo Pharma has named T Vijaya Kumar as the President of Research and Development for Specialty Drug Delivery. This appointment aims to strengthen the company’s focus on developing specialized drug delivery technologies. By using cookies for analytics and advertising, the company aims to improve its site and provide a better user experience. For more information…

Alex Lugovskoy, CEO of Diagonal Therapeutics, aims to develop antibodies that activate targets, rather than just inhibit cellular functions. Using computational and experimental techniques, the startup focuses on binding combinations to yield desired effects. Diagonal’s platform, developed over two years, includes a lead program for a rare bleeding disorder without FDA-approved therapies. Their technology, which…

The SMART trial compared self-expanding and balloon-expandable valves in patients with small aortic annuli undergoing TAVR. The study showed that self-expanding valves had better hemodynamic results at 1 year, with no difference in clinical outcomes. The trial, which enrolled primarily women, found that the self-expanding valve had lower rates of bioprosthetic valve dysfunction compared to…

Cancer cases among younger people have been increasing, with new evidence showing that younger generations are aging faster at the cellular level. A study of nearly 150,000 people in the UK found that those born after 1965 had a biological age that exceeded their chronological age, leading to a 17% increased risk of developing solid…

Cognitive decline and dementia impact over 55 million people globally, with this number expected to rise as the population ages. While genetic factors play a role, modifiable lifestyle habits like smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise are linked to a higher risk of dementia. Research suggests that following a traditional Japanese diet, characterized by foods…

A study published in Nutrients investigated the link between ultra-processed food intake and glaucoma among Spanish university graduates. Glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, is influenced by factors like age, race, and genetics, but nutrition plays a role. The study followed 19,255 participants for 13 years and found those with high ultra-processed food intake…

Leslie Crowder received a pink silk scarf with elephants from her mother days before starting chemotherapy for breast cancer. Her mother, sisters, and others wore a matching scarf every Friday to show support during her treatment. Ranak Trivedi, an expert on caregiving and long-distance caregiving, provided tips on how to help loved ones facing cancer…

A pivotal trial showed that semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, improved symptoms in patients with heart failure, obesity, and diabetes, similar to those without diabetes. The trial, conducted in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), obesity, and type 2 diabetes, demonstrated significant weight loss and improvement in quality of life compared to…

A review has found that patients taking semaglutide may experience a higher rate of altered skin sensations and alopecia. These side effects should be considered when prescribing this medication. Additionally, the use of cookies for analytics, advertising, and site improvement is acknowledged and continued use of the site implies agreement to their use. Further information…

Heali, a food as medicine platform, has partnered with Medicaid in California to provide personalized nutrition plans for over 200 chronic conditions through its AI-driven app. The company aims to expand its partnerships with more Medicaid programs in the future. Heali has launched its Medical Nutrition Therapy tool, offering evidence-based dietary recommendations for various conditions….

The Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital is a specialist hospital for eye, ear, nose, throat, and head and neck disorders. It is a University Teaching Hospital with a history dating back to 1814. They are currently seeking candidates for medical positions, specifically a Senior House Officer in Ophthalmology from July 2024 to January 2025….

The phase 2 KARDIA-2 study showed that a single subcutaneous dose of zilebesiran, an investigational RNA interference agent, reduced systolic blood pressure when added to other antihypertensive medications. The drug was generally safe, well-tolerated, and showed promise as part of combination therapy, offering a potential option for patients with hypertension. Data from the study also…

Grail, a cancer screening firm, is using a blood test called Galleri to detect multiple types of tumors early. However, the clinical trial endpoint for this test is being challenged. The test is available in the U.S. but not approved by the FDA or reimbursed by Medicare, except for specific clinical trials. Owned by Illumina,…

Clostridium butyricum, a hardworking microbe found in the gut and in soil, plays a crucial role in our health. It produces the short-chain fatty acid butyrate, which benefits intestinal cells. This microbe helps improve gut microbiome composition, supports digestive health, immune system function, and mental health. Some strains are used as probiotics and may be…

Heavy alcohol use in middle-aged adults increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by affecting liver and pancreas function, which impacts blood sugar control. Research presented at the American Physiology Summit in Long Beach found that heavy drinkers had higher fasting glucose levels. While young adults may not experience severe glucose level impairment from…

Douglass Williams was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 16, which led to significant health challenges including weight loss and limitations in his diet. Despite these challenges, he pursued his passion for cooking and found that focusing on creating dishes he could eat helped him cope with the disease. Managing stress and finding joy in cooking…

A new trial called TELE-ACS showed that patients with acute coronary syndrome who underwent PCI had a 76% lower rate of hospital readmission after 6 months if they participated in a remote monitoring protocol. The protocol included consultation with a cardiologist who reviewed home-monitoring data. Results also showed lower rates of emergency department visits, unplanned…

A study has found that chronic musculoskeletal pain can increase the risk of cognitive decline. The research suggests that persistent pain in the muscles and joints may have a negative impact on cognitive function. This finding highlights the importance of managing chronic pain effectively to prevent potential cognitive issues. The study also indicates the need…

As interest rates rise, digital health companies are facing a tighter VC market, with funding dropping from $29.1 billion in 2021 to $10.7 billion in 2022. Despite this, some VCs are still willing to invest in industry-leading companies. Entrepreneurs need to demonstrate a large market, strong unit economics, a world-class team, and a compelling plan…

Specialists at the IMO AGM discussed the rise of semaglutide as a weight-loss drug, with newer, more effective medications on the horizon. Prof Donal O’Shea highlighted the potential of tirzepatide and retatrutide in treating obesity. He emphasized the need for a shift in how obesity is treated, debunking the “eat less, move more” myth. The…

Chelation therapy, involving IV infusions of a metal-binding agent, did not show clinical benefit in post-MI patients with diabetes, according to the TACT2 trial. The therapy reduced lead levels in the blood but did not improve cardiovascular outcomes. The trial involved 1,000 patients with diabetes and a prior heart attack who received 40 weekly infusions…

A recent study presented at the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting revealed that about half of cancer drugs approved through the FDA’s accelerated approval pathway do not show improvement in patient survival or quality of life in subsequent clinical trials after five years. Despite this, the FDA has been converting accelerated approvals into…

France plans to introduce a five euro penalty for patients who miss medical appointments, aiming to address the 27 million consultations wasted each year. The penalty is part of Prime Minister Gabriel Attal’s efforts to improve the struggling healthcare system due to increasing demands from an aging population. The measure aims to free up appointments…

A new study presented at the American Physiology Summit shows that regular aerobic exercise later in life can prevent DNA damage and telomere dysfunction, improving vascular health. Previous studies indicated that aerobic exercise in older individuals reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease-related mortality. This study focused on how exercise impacts genomic stability, particularly in endothelial…

Chronic stress can worsen health conditions like arthritis by triggering inflammation and increased perception of pain. Managing stress is crucial to maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Exercise is an effective stress reducer and can help alleviate arthritis pain. Meditation and deep breathing techniques can also help lower stress levels. Alternative relaxation techniques, staying connected with…

An interarterial shunt (IAS) device that showed promise in improving heart failure (HF) in pilot studies did not meet the primary efficacy endpoint in a pivotal trial. The trial showed potential harm among patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) greater than 40%. Results indicated that the IAS device was beneficial for patients with…

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to eczema in young children, according to a study by researchers from Chang Gung University in Taiwan. The study involved 222 children with and without atopic dermatitis, testing for vitamin D levels and allergen sensitization. Results showed that vitamin D deficiency was associated with a higher prevalence of eczema in…

Mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation have been shown to reduce morbidity in patients undergoing elective rectal resection, according to a study published in JAMA. The study suggests that these preparations can help improve outcomes for patients undergoing this type of surgery. Additionally, the use of cookies on the website is mentioned, with information on…

Change Healthcare, part of UnitedHealth Group’s Optum division, recently experienced a cyberattack that disrupted payment processing for thousands of providers. The healthcare sector faces increasing cyber threats due to the valuable patient data it holds. Despite increased investments in cybersecurity, organizations struggle to keep up with sophisticated hackers. The attack exposed vulnerabilities in third-party vendors,…

Consultant psychiatrist Prof Matthew Sadlier recommends that Ireland issue a public health warning about social media’s negative effects on young people, following in the footsteps of the US Surgeon General. He suggested implementing a system of ‘minimum usage pricing’ and requiring social media users to verify their identity to combat addiction. Although he did not…

ARCA biopharma and Oruka Therapeutics have merged and will now operate under Oruka Therapeutics. The merger agreement includes the combining of all stocks which will now be traded on the Nasdaq under ORKA. The companies anticipate that the merger will fund Oruka’s leading programs, ORKA-001 and ORKA-002, through proof-of-concept. Oruka plans to enter clinical trials…

A new heart pump from Abiomed was found to reduce deaths in severe heart attack patients in a recent trial presented at the American College of Cardiology conference. The trial followed 355 patients for 180 days, with half receiving the heart pump and the other half receiving standard care. Results showed that 46% of patients…

A study found that waist circumference-to-height ratio (WHtR) is a better predictor of fat mass (FM) in pediatric patients compared to body mass index (BMI). The study included 7,237 9-year-old children and found that WHtR remained relatively stable over time while BMI increased. WHtR had better agreement with total FM and trunk FM compared to…

Researchers found that Black men with a recent prostate cancer diagnosis had lower microvascular function compared to white men. This racial disparity may contribute to disparities in cardiovascular disease outcomes as well. The study included 28 men who were within three months of a prostate cancer diagnosis, with Black men showing significantly lower microvascular function…

Weekends are perfect for being active, but this can lead to muscle soreness. Sore muscles can result from new activities, increased intensity, or lengthier workouts, causing minor injuries to muscle fibers. Joint pain can indicate osteoarthritis, overuse, or injury. Experts recommend using ice for immediate relief and heat later to increase blood flow. Acetaminophen or…

Men with lower urinary tract symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate may benefit more from a surgical implant called UroLift than from the commonly prescribed drug tamsulosin, according to new data presented at a urology congress. In a trial comparing the two treatments, men who received the UroLift implant reported greater improvements in urinary symptoms,…

Dry shampoo is a convenient hair care product that absorbs excess oil and refreshes locks in between washes, making it ideal for busy schedules. By selecting the right dry shampoo based on hair type, ingredients, formulation, scent, color, and desired effects like volume and texture, you can maintain a clean, revitalized appearance with minimal effort….

Odisha Government has implemented strict measures to address the issue of fake doctors in the state. The government aims to crack down on individuals practicing medicine without proper qualifications by conducting thorough background checks and investigations. These measures are intended to protect the public from potential harm caused by fraudulent medical practitioners. By using cookies…