Julie Rovner hosts KFF Health News’ weekly health policy news podcast, “What the Health?” In the latest episode, panelists discuss abortion laws, medical bills, and misinformation. They also share recommendations for relevant health policy stories. The panelists also highlight the upcoming oral arguments in the Supreme Court regarding the future of the abortion pill mifepristone…
This episode of “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast, covers a range of topics including what makes a blockbuster drug, the implications of Aduhelm for biotech, and the retirement of a significant FDA figure. They also discuss Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ novel pain drug and its success in clinical trials. The episode offers more information on these…
The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman has warned that patients with mental health conditions are at risk when leaving hospital care in the UK. Ombudsman Rob Behrens called for urgent action from the government to bring in reforms in the mental health bill to ensure better care and treatment for those detained under the Mental…
The NIDUS-Family package of care and support focuses on helping people with dementia and their family caregivers attain their personal goals. The package can be delivered by phone, video call, or in person and aims to help the recipient meet their own individual goals, including increasing activity, improving mood, sleep, and appetite, enhancing relationships, and…
A study in JAMA Network Open compares the outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for weight loss surgery. Since 2017, SG has become more popular than RYGB, despite previous studies showing RYGB provides better long-term weight control. The study found that both surgeries had similar perioperative complications, but RYGB…
The author discusses her decision to pursue treatment for geographic atrophy (GA), an advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). She explains her experience living with GA, her decision-making process, and her concerns about potential long-term side effects and the risky treatment for GA. She expresses her hope that the treatment will slow the…
Pickleball’s popularity has led to a rise in injuries and associated medical costs in the US. However, some healthcare organizations are now partnering with the pickleball community to provide injury prevention education, care, and build lasting relationships with players. For example, the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles and Humana have formed partnerships with the…
Having oily hair can be uncomfortable and erode self-confidence, but proper hair care routines and the right shampoo can help manage and balance oily hair. Some of the best shampoos for oily hair include Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo, L’Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing Shampoo, Aveeno Scalp Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo, Paul Mitchell…
A study has found that deucravacitinib is both safer and more effective than apremilast for treating moderate to severe scalp psoriasis. These findings suggest that deucravacitinib may be a promising treatment option for individuals with this condition. The study’s results provide valuable information for healthcare providers and patients seeking effective treatments for scalp psoriasis. This…
Medicaid is a vital healthcare safety net in the U.S., with $824 billion in spending in 2022. One important but lesser-known aspect is the coordination of benefits, which ensures efficient management of funding sources and prevents overutilization of services. This practice also maximizes financial resources, promotes fair distribution of resources, and mitigates fraud and abuse….
This content is about the RCPI Faculty of Public Health Medicine Winter Scientific Meeting, featuring Dr. John Cuddihy, Prof. Breda Smyth, Prof. Patricia Fitzpatrick, and Prof. Cecily Kelleher. The article is one of 15 free-access articles allowed for 30 days, and it includes a photo by David Coleman/BobbyStudio. Source link
Combining sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT-2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) therapy is associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and a recent acute myocardial infarction. The study found that the combination therapy had a reduced incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events compared to either therapy alone. The…
The article provides an analysis of the Cerner and Epic EMR healthcare software platforms, outlining their features, pros and cons, and pricing. Cerner EMR, owned by Oracle, offers an adaptable, integrated solution for healthcare organizations, catering to various specialties and providing valuable resources for patient care. However, it may have navigation issues and limited capabilities…
Singapore-based startup Mesh Bio has raised $3.5 million in a funding round led by East Ventures, with participation from Elev8, Seed Capitals, and other shareholders. The company plans to use the funds to scale the deployment of its digital twin offering across Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, with a focus on addressing the prevalent and…
Federal policymakers are increasing funding and proposing legislation to address the shortage of primary care providers in underserved areas. However, there is a lack of consistent national data to accurately identify these shortage areas and measure the effectiveness of policies. The existing shortage list has areas that have been on it for over 40 years,…
In biotech news, Merck reported strong fourth-quarter earnings and a forecast for 2024 sales with an increase of 6%, while Roche and Sanofi also reported their earnings. The biotech industry is affected by the Federal Reserve’s decision not to cut interest rates, causing a 2% dip in the XBI index. Bluebird Bio’s financial results will…
Consultant plastic surgeon Nora Nugent from the UK refutes misinformation about breast implant illness and discusses the difficulty in definitively attributing systemic symptoms to silicone breast implants. She describes the numerous symptoms reported by women, and the challenges in diagnosing the condition. She also highlights the lack of evidence linking silicone implants to autoimmune or…
The World Health Organization’s cancer agency has warned that the number of new cancer cases will rise to over 35 million in 2050, a 77% increase from 2022. Factors such as tobacco, alcohol, obesity, and air pollution contribute to this rise. The most developed countries are expected to see the highest increase in case numbers,…
Researchers conducted a review on the role of vitamin D in immunocompetence and how it is affected by aging. Vitamin D influences bone health and immunity, and its deficiency affects the production of active vitamin D metabolites. Vitamin D responsiveness varies among individuals due to genetic and epigenetic factors. Vitamin D influences gene expression and…
A new research study called PowerMom, led by Tolúwalàṣé (Laṣé) Ajayi, aims to address disparities and inequities in maternity care for pregnant individuals in the United States. The study uses a smartphone app that collects data from expectant mothers, including health-related information, to help identify the patterns and common concerns experienced during healthy pregnancies. The…
A study found that individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may have lower cognitive test scores and worse brain tissue integrity compared to those without the condition. The study used data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Women’s Study, including over 900 women, 66 of whom had PCOS. The PCOS group showed…
Exposure to the naturally occurring radioactive gas radon has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, according to a new study published in the medical journal Neurology. Radon, which has no smell, taste, or color, is produced from the breakdown of metals in rocks and soil and can make its way into homes through…
In the last 10 years, 16 AIIMS and 315 medical colleges have been established, doubling the number of MBBS seats available. This expansion in the medical education sector is aimed at increasing access to healthcare and addressing the shortage of doctors in India. Additionally, the use of cookies for analytics, advertising, and site improvement is…
The ACO REACH program offers a chance for risk-bearing organizations to focus on health equity and improve patient outcomes. The program encourages participants to work with underserved communities and address health equity barriers. However, there are challenges, including managing unfamiliar patient populations and providers, and navigating the Dunning-Kruger Effect. Many organizations struggle with ROI, but…
A group of Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) doctors are concerned about proposed legislation to legalize cannabis possession for personal use and remove the stigma of a criminal conviction for such offenses. The doctors argue that decriminalization, as recommended by the Citizens’ Assembly, would be a more suitable approach. They have written to government officials ahead…
Research published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry indicates that ADHD and ASD share certain genetic variants and genes. Colocalization analyses found that 37.5% of ASD SNPs colocalized with ADHD SNPs, and 19.6% of ADHD SNPs colocalized with ASD SNPs. The study also identified 8 genes, including 2 novel ones, associated with both…
Valendo Health, a diabetes-focused endocrinology company, has launched with $4 million in seed funding and two providers. The company, part of Redesign Health, aims to increase revenue for endocrinologists and assist with the transition to a value-based care model. It offers telehealth and remote patient monitoring services, an endocrinology-focused EMR, data analytics, and help with…
The Federal Trade Commission is contesting the legitimacy of over 100 patents for drug delivery devices such as inhalers and autoinjectors in an effort to stimulate competition and possibly reduce drug prices. The pharmaceutical industry has often used these patents, preventing competition from offering less expensive generic alternatives. The FTC is trying to challenge these…
Tatiana Bremova-Ertl’s graduate adviser was studying a 1950s-era French vertigo drug for its effects on balance disorders when she thought of patients with Niemann-Pick Type C (NPC), a rare genetic disease. This condition can be fatal in early childhood or milder if appearing later, but it always leads to cognitive decline, speech and swallowing issues,…
The biggest workers’ strike in Northern Ireland in half a century took place on January 24, with protesters holding placards and banners calling for the DUP to be sent to Rwanda and expressing anger over the lack of a devolved government for almost two years. The DUP had boycotted the executive in protest over Brexit…
A study from The Lancet Public Health journal found that transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people in England are at a higher risk for developing long-term mental health conditions than cisgender individuals. The research combined data from the English GP Patient Survey and analyzed responses from over 1.5 million participants. The study found that approximately half…
Rates of kidney stones are increasing globally, especially in the United States. A study led by the Mass General Brigham investigators found an association between the use of sodium-glucose contratransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and a lower risk of kidney stones. The data from three nationwide databases of patients with type 2 diabetes showed that those…
April Williams experienced significant weight loss through surgery, diet, exercise, and medication. She struggled with disheartening plateaus and societal standards of weight and body image. The focus on weight and BMI can lead to distorted body image and unrealistic goals. Maintaining a healthy weight involves lifestyle habits and overall health, rather than hitting a specific…
The Farapulse Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) system by Boston Scientific has received FDA approval for treating drug-refractory, recurrent, symptomatic, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). This system is an alternative to standard thermal ablation, using tissue-selective, nonthermal electric fields to ablate heart tissue. Clinical trial data shows the Farapulse system is as safe and effective as traditional…
Retinol serum is a powerful skincare product known for its anti-aging properties and ability to promote skin renewal by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Here are the best retinol serums based on user reviews and ratings: 1. The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane 2. Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment 3. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol…
A study found that higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) are linked to an increased risk of developing kidney stones. CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body, and the study suggests that chronic inflammation may play a role in the formation of kidney stones. The findings may help doctors identify individuals who are…
Biogen has announced that it is cutting ties with the Alzheimer’s drug Aduhelm, discontinuing its development and commercialization. The drug, which had controversial regulatory approval, was a commercial failure due to low market uptake, safety concerns, and limited insurance coverage. The company is also terminating a post-marketing confirmatory study and has returned the drug’s rights…
A report from the Medical Protection Society (MPS) has found that clinical negligence claims in Ireland take an average of more than four years to resolve, which is longer than in other countries. This slow process is taking a toll on the mental wellbeing of both patients and doctors, as well as leading to high…
The Biden-Harris administration has released new guidance for health plans and insurers to expand access to all FDA-approved contraceptives at no cost. This falls in line with President Biden’s Executive Order to strengthen access to affordable contraception and family planning services, following the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade. Xavier Becerra, US…
Accompany Health, a Bethesda-based care provider, has secured $56 million in Series A funding to offer in-home and virtual care services for low-income patients with complex needs. Services include primary and urgent care, mental health, social care, transportation to medical appointments, assistance with benefit applications, and health coaching. The company aims to address the serious…
Sarah Gutilla, who suffered from severe treatment-resistant depression, found relief in intravenous ketamine treatments at Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles. After six rounds of treatment, Gutilla felt instantly better, though most insurance plans don’t cover ketamine for mental health, costing patients $600-$1000 per treatment. This treatment’s popularity has grown in recent years with over 500-750 clinics…
Biogen is relinquishing its ownership of Alzheimer’s treatment Aduhelm, which came under scrutiny after its 2021 approval. The Swiss company, Neurimmune, who developed the drug, will regain full rights to it, and Biogen plans to end a clinical trial meant to prove its benefits. Despite this, Biogen’s CEO praised Aduhelm as a groundbreaking discovery that…
André Spicer, a professor of organizational behavior, discusses how workplace wellness programs do not improve employee happiness, citing a decline in staff satisfaction in the NHS. The 2022 staff survey, with over 600,000 responses, showed low scores and a high percentage of employees considering leaving. Many reported inadequate staffing, low morale, and burnout. Factors contributing…
Guilhem Gallart, a French musician diagnosed with ALS in 2015, is receiving hope from a new treatment for the disease. ALS is a deadly neurodegenerative disease that affects about 30,000 Americans at any given time, causing progressive loss of motor and cognitive function. Researchers have discovered a “molecular stabilizer” called S-XL6, which restores the function…
A recent study published in Scientific Reports analyzed the impact of visual impairment (VI) on mental disorders in the elderly. The researchers found that there is a significant association between VI and depression and anxiety. The study involved 3,200 subjects and used the general health questionnaire (GHQ) to measure psychological aspects of quality of life….
Traditional Western medicine has not emphasized spiritual well-being, but new evidence suggests that spiritual and religious practices have a significant impact on mental health. Higher levels of spirituality and religiousness are linked to lower levels of depression, suicide, and substance misuse, and can guard against PTSD. Studies show spiritual practice can affect brain structure. Having…
Clinicians at Valley-Wide Health Systems in San Luis, Colorado struggle with full-time provider shortages in rural areas. Costilla County’s clinic faces vacancies despite federal incentives such as loan repayment programs and Medicare bonus payments. This represents a larger trend across the U.S. There is persistent struggle in attracting primary care providers, as many practices in…
Childhood obesity is a critical global health issue that can be prevented by ensuring that expectant mothers receive proper nutrition before and during pregnancy. A recent study published in BMC Medicine found that when mothers take supplements with probiotics, myoinositol, and vitamins B2, B6, B12, and D before giving birth, their children have less rapid…
Buprenorphine is a safer option for treating opioid use disorder during pregnancy compared to methadone. This conclusion is based on a study that found decreased risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and neonatal abstinence syndrome for infants born to mothers who used buprenorphine compared to those who used methadone. The study suggests that buprenorphine…
The MedCity Moves Podcast returns with its first episode of the year, covering executive appointments and exits in the healthcare industry. Senior Reporter Katie Adams discusses new leaders at Centene, Best Buy Health, and Endeavor Health, as well as recent healthcare layoffs at RWJBarnabas, SonderMind, and Incredible Health. The episode also features an interview with…