show that remdesivir may help hospitalized patients recover more quickly, but does not reduce mortality rates. The FDA has approved remdesivir as a treatment for COVID-19 based on the previous positive findings, despite the lack of mortality benefit in the latest data. The drug is now widely used as a treatment option for hospitalized COVID-19…
President-elect Donald Trump nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Dr. Oz is a surgeon and former television host, known for his mixed views on healthcare. Healthcare leaders are unsure about his appointment, as he has promoted unproven treatments and endorsed questionable weight loss strategies in the past. Some…
A study on the effectiveness of the new obesity medication tirzepatide found that continued use can lead to significant weight loss and a reduction in diabetes. The medication, taken weekly by injection, has shown promising results over a three-year period, with weight loss stability and improved quality of life reported by patients. The medication is…
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz to run the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, which oversees coverage for over 160 million Americans. Oz’s previous investments in health care, tech, and food companies could pose conflicts of interest, with stakes in UnitedHealth Group, pharmaceutical firms, and tech companies like Amazon. It’s unclear…
Healio | OSN has appointed new board positions for Nicole R. Fram, MD, Kendall E. Donaldson, MD, MS, and Audrey R. Talley Rostov, MD. Fram is now the Associate Medical Editor, succeeding Elizabeth Yeu, MD. Donaldson is the new Technology Section Editor, focusing on keeping ophthalmologists updated on the latest tools and technologies. Rostov is…
This content discusses how technology is transforming the life sciences, specifically focusing on AI adoption in clinical care. FDA Commissioner Robert Califf highlights the challenges of regulating AI devices and emphasizes the need for ongoing evaluation of AI tools in clinical settings. Amazon introduces upfront pricing in telehealth, potentially competing with companies like Hims. The…
Despite promises to cut smoking rates and protect young people, big tobacco companies like Philip Morris International and British American Tobacco are aggressively expanding the market for fruit-flavored “click” or “capsule” cigarettes in Latin America. These products, which involve crushing a capsule for flavor, appeal to children and are being heavily marketed at music festivals…
New research published in The Lancet shows that life expectancy disparities in the US based on race and location have widened over the past two decades. The study divides the US population into ten groups, or “Americas,” based on various factors. Disparities in life expectancy have increased, with certain populations experiencing significant drops due to…
Julie Rovner is the host of KFF Health News podcast “What the Health?” and an expert on health policy. President-elect Trump’s choices for key health policy positions are controversial. The lame-duck Congress has limited time to address health priorities while the incoming Congress plans changes to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Trump’s picks for…
The FDA has approved zanidatamab as a monotherapy for previously treated HER2-positive biliary tract cancer (BTC). The bispecific antibody is the first HER2-targeted treatment with this indication. Zanidatamab binds to HER2 proteins, blocking HER2 signaling and inducing immune responses. The approval was based on a phase 2 trial with a 52% response rate and a…
Tomball resident Marisa Christie gave birth to triplets after facing life-threatening complications, leading her to be clinically dead for about 45 minutes post-birth. Her husband, Dylan, made the call for her to have a hysterectomy, saving her life from a rare post-birth complication called amniotic fluid embolism. Marisa miraculously survived and woke up with no…
A study conducted at Cleveland Clinic found that IV acetaminophen did not reduce postoperative hypoxemia or pain in patients who underwent abdominal surgery. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, concluded that IV acetaminophen did not have a significant impact on opioid consumption or other secondary outcomes. As a result of…
Clinicians should consider reducing doses of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel in older patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer, as a large real-world study showed worse outcomes in patients receiving modified dosing. The traditional dosing schedule of days 1, 8 and 15 of a 28-day cycle is often altered for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. It is…
The FDA approved a new leukemia drug, ziftomenib, developed by Kura Oncology with the help of $330 million from a collaboration agreement with Kyowa Kirin. The drug is targeted for advanced cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) driven by mutations to the KMT2A gene. Ziftomenib is a menin inhibitor and is also being tested for…
Dr. Ray O’Connor discusses the disparity in life expectancy between men and women, along with the underrepresentation of men’s health issues. A study on men’s mental health following a breakup found that men seek help through self-help resources, social connections, and professional mental health care. Researchers propose the ‘5C Framework’ to design men’s health programs…
Florida has not yet started its drug importation program from Canada, despite receiving approval nearly a year ago from the FDA. Governor Ron DeSantis has criticized the delay and filed a lawsuit against the FDA. The program aims to save the state money on Medicaid and other agency drug costs. However, challenges such as finding…
A study presented at the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons Annual Meeting found that around 20% of patients with periprosthetic joint infections of the knee were eligible for one-stage exchange. The study also showed that about 66% of ineligible patients had multiple reasons for not meeting eligibility criteria. The results highlight the need…
While on vacation, the author reflects on the broken milkshake machine at McDonald’s and shares updates on “right to repair” issues with the machines. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is exploring a proposal to reduce the influence of the American Medical Association on Medicare payments. A study reveals that many underinsured U.S. adults struggle to afford…
Communication skills are essential for doctors when interacting with patients to ensure effective care. Retired general practitioner Phil Taylor from Axminster, UK, emphasizes the importance of this skill in doctor-patient relationships. However, he expresses some concerns about the idea of not being manipulated into doing something against one’s own judgment. Taylor believes that understanding patients’…
A recent study from Vanderbilt University suggests that treatment with radiation therapy for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) may lead to an environment supportive of tumor regrowth. The research found that radiation therapy, while important for survival rates in TNBC patients, can result in increased cancer cell proliferation in an immunosuppressed microenvironment. The study, published…
A study by researchers at the University of Galway and the University of Limerick suggests that electrical stimulation is vital for maintaining tendon health, offering new possibilities for repair and regeneration. Tendons are resistant to mechanical stress and produce electric fields when stretched, regulating cell function. Injuries to tendons, ligaments, and muscles affect many people…
Amid a rising opioid crisis in Canada, Calgary is debating whether to close the Sheldon Chumir supervised consumption site. While the site provides a safe environment for drug users, some Calgarians believe it contributes to crime and safety concerns. The provincial government delegated the decision to the city, resulting in a stalemate. Many experts argue…
A recent study suggests that being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before age 50 significantly increases the risk of developing dementia. The study tracked 1,213 U.S. adults aged 50 and older with type 2 diabetes over 14 years and found that earlier diabetes diagnoses increased dementia risk. Those diagnosed before age 50 were 1.9 times…
A study conducted in the United States found that most children with uncomplicated appendicitis can be successfully treated with antibiotics alone. The study, involving 1,068 children aged 7 to 17 years, showed that two-thirds of children treated with antibiotics did not require surgery within the next year. The nonoperative approach resulted in fewer days of…
is not well-defined,” said researchers. The study found that patients who underwent adequate lymphadenectomy had a median overall survival of 98 months compared to 49 months for those with inadequate lymphadenectomy. This highlights the importance of thorough evaluation and treatment of lymph nodes in early-stage small-bowel cancer patients, potentially improving their chances of survival. Source…
Orion Innovations, a Utah-based healthcare startup, has developed a product called MedLite ID that helps nurses access medication lines faster and with less mental effort. This device attaches to hospital IV lines and uses light to aid in identification and tracing of medication infusion lines, reducing the risk of errors. Orion’s studies with Wake Forest…
The Mercy University Hospital recently celebrated the graduation of a new group of nurses who have completed their training and are now ready to enter the workforce. The hospital is proud of their dedication and skills, and the new nurses are eager to contribute to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. CEO Margaret McKiernan commended the graduates…
A comprehensive meta-analysis conducted by Danish researchers identified the best oral migraine medications based on effectiveness and safety. The study included newer drugs like lasmiditan and rimegepant, along with traditional medications. Triptans were found to be particularly effective but under prescribed. The rankings were based on criteria such as pain relief, side effects, and tolerability….
Former employees of the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank shared stories of high-pressure environments, errors, and damaged or wasted tissues leading to a tense work environment. Eye banks recover corneas from deceased donors, with corneas being the most commonly transplanted body part in the U.S. There is less transparency and oversight in the tissue donation…
A study published in JAMA Psych showed that patients with alcohol use disorder who used GLP-1 agonists had a reduced risk for hospitalization due to alcohol use disorder. The study included 227,866 participants diagnosed with AUD from 2006 to 2021. Semaglutide and liraglutide were associated with lower risk for somatic hospitalization. Participants on semaglutide had…
The outgoing Medicaid chief under the Biden administration criticized Republican ideas to overhaul Medicaid, calling them “just plain bad policy” that will harm low-income enrollees in the program. To read the full story, visit STAT+. Source link
A large prospective cohort study was conducted to assess the effect of endometriosis and uterine fibroids on the long-term risk of premature mortality in women aged 25-42. Findings from the study revealed that visually confirmed endometriosis and uterine fibroids were associated with a greater risk of premature mortality, primarily driven by malignant gynecological cancers. Endometriosis…
Female infertility affects up to 15% of couples, leading to prolonged clinical testing and treatment. A study by the University of Helsinki identified the TBPL2 gene defect as a significant cause of infertility in women, with the mutation being more common in Finland. Other genetic variants associated with infertility were also discovered. The TBPL2 gene…
Digital group interventions can help address severe obesity, but barriers like internet access and participant engagement need to be overcome. A recent study in the UK evaluated the effectiveness, usability, and obstacles of online group interventions for adults with severe obesity. These interventions, which can reduce service demands and provide social support, face logistical challenges,…
The OPTION trial found that left atrial appendage (LAA) closure after ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) provides long-term protection against thromboembolism equivalent to oral anticoagulants, with a lower risk of bleeding. The study, conducted at 106 sites in 10 countries, included 1600 patients with AF and compared outcomes of LAA closure with oral anticoagulants. Results…
Researchers are exploring the concept of “aeronutrients,” suggesting that the air we breathe may contain vital nutrients such as vitamins, fatty acids, and minerals that can support our health. Evidence shows that iodine and manganese in the air can be absorbed into the body, impacting health. A recent study suggested that air could be a…
Dr. Melissa Red Hoffman describes a traumatic experience involving a patient who suffered a hanging and was left with a devastating brain injury. Despite a grim prognosis, the patient’s family chose to proceed with organ donation after cardiac death (DCD). Dr. Hoffman shares her experience of guiding the family through this process, acting as an…
need to prioritize preventive care and ensure that individuals continue to have access to necessary screenings to prevent an increase in cancer deaths.” Researchers urge healthcare systems to find innovative ways to deliver screenings safely, such as telemedicine and at-home testing kits. Early detection and treatment remain crucial in reducing mortality rates for colorectal cancer….
World Class Health, a global concierge health benefit, has raised $8 million in seed funding to continue building out its global centers of excellence network. The New York City-based startup serves self-funded employers and provides access to a global network of top providers, spanning North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, and…
The Western Health and Social Care Trust is seeking a Consultant Cellular Pathologist for Altnagelvin Area Hospital in Londonderry. The salary ranges from £100,400 to £132,000 per annum. The closing date for applications is Friday, December 13, 2024 at 3:30pm. Interested candidates can find the full criteria, job description, and application form on jobs.hscni.net. A…
Medical devices are crucial in medical treatment, but sometimes they are not rigorously tested before use, leading to severe harm for patients. Defects in medical devices can stem from design flaws, manufacturing issues, or labeling problems, resulting in injuries or worsened health conditions. A product liability lawyer can help patients facing injuries from defective medical…
Vermont residents face high insurance premiums, long wait times for care, and financial struggles for hospitals. Despite nearly universal health insurance coverage, the state’s small, aging population and rural geography make it difficult to spread insurance risk and attract healthcare workers. The state regulates hospital and insurance prices but is facing challenges with hospital consolidation…
A study found that treatment with Paxlovid significantly reduced the duration and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection among high-risk patients, resulting in fewer hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and deaths. The study included unvaccinated, high-risk adult patients with symptomatic COVID-19 who were randomized to receive either Paxlovid or a placebo every 12 hours for 5 days. Patients who…
Doctors have been using needles for drug injection since the 1600s, especially for biologic drugs that can’t be taken orally. However, a new device inspired by sea creatures like cuttlefish aims to revolutionize drug delivery. This device can be swallowed like a pill and uses jets to spray drugs into deeper tissues, increasing efficiency. Tests…
The air pollution levels in Delhi and Lahore reached extremely hazardous levels, far beyond the most severe category of the US Air Quality Index. Schools and many businesses in both cities were closed due to the high levels of pollutants. The smog cloud, caused by PM2.5 particles, stretched across northern India and southeast Pakistan, affecting…
Living in a polluted area can harm your skin, not just your lungs. Research found a strong connection between high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and eczema. PM2.5, tiny particles in the air from sources like cars and industrial sites, can penetrate the skin barrier and cause damage. Studies show that air pollution triggers…
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has expanded two cancer genetic risk assessment guidelines to include additional cancer types, such as prostate, endometrial, and gastric cancer. The guidelines provide information on when genetic testing is recommended, specific genetic mutations associated with elevated cancer risk, and appropriate next steps for individuals with these mutations. The updated guidelines…
Researchers from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have found that long-term use of common cardiovascular drugs may offer protection against dementia. The study, which involved 88,000 individuals over 70 years old, found that using antihypertensive drugs, cholesterol-lowering drugs, diuretics, and blood-thinning drugs for more than five years was associated with a lower risk of dementia….
Current guidelines recommend initiating venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in trauma patients within 48 hours, but a new study suggests that starting chemoprophylaxis within the first 24 hours is more effective in reducing the risk of VTE. The study, presented by Jason Hecht, PharmD, at the 2020 virtual annual meeting of the American Society for the Surgery…
recurrence of large colorectal polyps after resection is common, but rarely malignant. A study of 800 cases found a 20% recurrence rate on first surveillance colonoscopy, but no adenocarcinomas were detected. These lesions can typically be successfully treated during follow-up exams. The research highlights the importance of surveillance colonoscopies following resection of large colorectal polyps…