Branden Baptiste, diagnosed with sickle cell disease at a young age, struggled with chronic complications affecting his kidneys, lungs, joints, and eyes. Seeking a cure, he participated in a groundbreaking gene therapy trial called BEACON at Boston Children’s Hospital. Through base editing, the most precise form of gene therapy, Branden’s red blood cells were edited…
Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have created a comprehensive map of changes in the blood system throughout a human’s lifetime. They analyzed gene expression in over 58,000 individual blood stem cells at different stages, from fetal development to old age. The study revealed shifts in blood cell production according…
A new analysis presented at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting suggests that omitting 24-hour urine testing from multiple myeloma response assessments does not compromise accurate tracking of patients’ responses to treatment. Evaluating patients’ responses using urine-free and traditional criteria led to nearly identical assessments in the study of 645 patients. The findings support…
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield’s decision to cap anesthesia coverage based on arbitrary time limits has drawn criticism from medical professionals for prioritizing profits over patient safety. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) raised concerns about this policy, which does not consider the complexity or duration of surgeries. Anthem claims the move aligns with federal…
Dr. Mario Pulido, Chief Medical Officer at Ascension St. Vincent’s in Florida, found that EMR companies could not provide a way to add an anticipated date of discharge feature to improve patient care. He discovered Wellsheet, an AI-powered solution that enhances EMR productivity and reduces burnout for clinicians. The technology also reduces the number of…
The annual Haematology Summit took place in Dublin on September 6, 2024, attracting healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with haematological malignancies. Discussions focused on the latest insights into the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Key speakers emphasized the importance…
A high-fiber plant-based diet was found to delay progression of precursor conditions to multiple myeloma in a study presented at the ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition. The NUTRIVENTION trial showed that this diet intervention improved quality of life, biomarkers of the disease, and modifiable risk factors. The study included 20 participants with MGUS or smoldering…
The ASH 2024 conference in San Diego featured updates on new treatments for rare diseases such as immune thrombocytopenia and sickle cell disease. Sanofi’s rilzabrutinib showed promising results in increasing platelet counts and reducing bleeding episodes in ITP patients. Novo Nordisk’s etavopivat pill reduced severe pain crises in sickle cell disease patients. Beam Therapeutics’ CRISPR-based…
The UK government has resurrected legislation to combat youth vaping and create a smoke-free generation by banning tobacco sales to those born after January 1, 2009. While this is a positive step, improving the country’s health record requires action on other leading causes of premature death and disability. Alcohol, as a type 1 carcinogen, leads…
Physical activity, such as daily walking, can offer various health benefits, including reducing the risk of diseases like heart disease and cancer. To maximize the benefits of walking, consider varying your speed, walking faster, adding weight with a weighted vest or backpack, incorporating hills or stairs, and practicing mindful walking. These strategies can enhance cardiovascular…
A study conducted by a research team at the University of Konstanz, led by toxicologist Ivano Amelio, has shown that different mutations of the tumor suppressor p53 have varying effects on pancreatic carcinomas. The p53 protein plays a crucial role in inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting cell death in case of DNA damage, but mutations…
A real-world retrospective analysis linked the bispecific antibodies epcoritamab and glofitamab to somewhat poorer outcomes in relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma compared to clinical trials. The study tracked 172 patients with a median follow-up of 5 months, finding median progression-free survival of 2.7 months and median overall survival of 7.2 months. Despite some patients…
In Africa, a mysterious illness with flu-like symptoms has claimed nearly 150 lives in southwest Congo. Health officials, including the WHO, are investigating the unidentified illness, which presents with symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, and anemia. The WHO has dispatched a team to collect samples for lab investigation and the CDC is offering technical…
Consumers are increasingly focusing on holistic wellness services, leading to a rise in demand for shoppable health and wellness care. These services allow consumers to compare prices and schedule non-urgent healthcare resources ahead of time. With rising healthcare costs, many consumers are opting for financing plans to pay for wellness services. Providers are facing increased…
The HSE West and Northwest Cancer Network has been accredited by the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI), making it one of only 20 such groups in Europe. The accreditation process involved a peer review visit by a panel of European experts, evaluating 345 standards across the region’s cancer programme. This accreditation is considered the…
Deegant Adhvaryu helped his parents apply for Medicaid and food benefits in June. Due to delays and incomplete applications, his parents, ages 71 and 76, were left without coverage in Georgia, even though they had it in Virginia. This was due in part to the implementation of the Georgia Pathways to Coverage program, which added…
Results of the randomized phase 3 LUNA 3 study showed that rilzabrutinib induced rapid and lasting platelet count expansion for patients with immune thrombocytopenia. The drug also improved overall response rate and quality of life compared to placebo. This BTK inhibitor had a low adverse event rate and demonstrated significant efficacy in a refractory patient…
The European Commission approved Novo Holdings’ $16.5 billion acquisition of Catalent, a contract drug manufacturer, removing obstacles to the deal. The acquisition, which has sparked debate over competition in the pharmaceutical industry, is still pending approval from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Novo Holdings, the parent company of Novo Nordisk, aims to buy Catalent due…
Global drug policies should shift from punishing drug users to a public health approach focused on reducing harm caused by drugs, according to the Global Commission on Drug Policy. The Commission advocates for the decriminalization of drug use and expanding harm reduction strategies to address rising overdose deaths, violence, and the strain on criminal justice…
A study led by Brigham and Women’s Hospital suggests that spending more time in bright light may improve mood by promoting better sleep. The study included over 6,600 participants and found that regular sleep was associated with lower depression symptoms. Participants who spent more time in bright light had more regular sleep, leading to lower…
The Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons (HWE) reaction is crucial in organic chemistry for creating conjugated carbonyl compounds used in various industries. Improving HWE reactions is a focus of research, with potential applications in developing anti-cancer compounds. Tokyo University of Science researchers have developed a highly selective HWE reaction method using a magnesium phosphonoenolate intermediate, allowing for isolated active…
Physicians reacted harshly to the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson due to frustrations and anger over the insurer’s routine denials of care. The incident sparked criticism towards the company’s practices, with some physicians sharing their negative experiences with prior authorizations and denials. While some expressed sympathy for Thompson’s death, others felt he reaped…
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in Connecticut has decided to cancel its plan to limit anesthesia coverage for surgeries after facing backlash. The policy, which was supposed to start in February 2025, would have restricted coverage based on time limits, potentially leaving patients with out-of-pocket expenses. State Comptroller Sean Scanlon announced the reversal, stating that…
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming patient care by improving engagement, treatment outcomes, and reducing readmission rates in healthcare. AI-powered assistants guide patients through testing procedures, treatment plans, and insurance claims, enhancing patient understanding and adherence. Virtual health assistants offer personalized, data-driven support by analyzing health data and providing real-time guidance. These AI tools also address…
The introduction of a new vaccine for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has led to a significant decrease in cases, hospitalizations, and ICU admissions in newborn infants this winter compared to the previous year. Over 9,300 babies have received the vaccine since September 1, resulting in only ten notified RSV cases, seven hospitalizations, and less than…
KFF Health News senior correspondent Arthur Allen discussed vaccine infrastructure fragility on The Atlantic’s “Radio Atlantic,” highlighting concerns about public health. Andy Miller discussed U.S. obesity rates on WUGA’s “The Georgia Health Report,” while Julie Appleby talked about health insurance options in Wisconsin on Wisconsin Public Radio’s “Wisconsin Today.” KFF Health News is a national…
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield announced that it will no longer limit reimbursement for anesthesia during surgeries, following backlash from medical groups and the public. The policy would have capped reimbursement if surgery exceeded a set time limit, regardless of the actual length of the procedure. The change comes after criticism from anesthesiologist groups and…
First Opinion on STAT is a platform for articles written by biotech insiders, healthcare workers, and researchers about topics related to the life sciences. Readers can submit Letters to the Editor in response to these articles. One article discusses the importance of empathetic touch in medicine, citing a personal experience during World War 2. Another…
The government in England aims to end the hospital treatment backlog by 2029, with a target for 92% of patients to wait no longer than 18 weeks for elective care. Healthcare leaders are calling for a monumental increase in activity to achieve this goal. Keir Starmer highlighted this objective as one of six ambitious milestones…
Experts have used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate the effects of a gluten-free diet on patients with celiac disease. The MARCO study, led by the University of Nottingham, found that patients with celiac disease had more gut symptoms, slower bowel transit, and higher levels of ‘bad bugs’ in their microbiota. After one year on…
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry showed that brain volume changes are linked to social behavior differences in psychiatric conditions like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. The research, led by Noboru Hiroi at UT Health San Antonio, focused on the Tbx1 gene and its impact on social behavior in mice. Genetic variants, specifically copy number…
The international paediatric type 1 diabetes registry data from 2013 to 2022 showed improvements in average A1c levels and the proportion of children meeting A1c targets, along with reduced rates of diabetic ketoacidosis and severe hypoglycaemia. However, many children still did not meet the glycaemic targets recommended by the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent…
When trying to lose weight, cutting out sugary treats may be the first step. However, it is normal to crave sugar, as the sweet taste triggers the release of calming hormones in the brain. To curb sugar cravings, one can try eating a healthy snack, avoiding triggers, taking a walk, drinking water, taking a hot…
Hinge Health and Amazon Health Services have partnered to provide digital musculoskeletal care through Amazon’s Health Condition Programs. This collaboration aims to offer support for back, joint and muscle pain, connecting users with health coaches, therapists, specialists, and more. By simplifying access to Hinge Health’s program on Amazon, patients can receive tailored treatment plans, including…
Government departments such as the HSE and Department of Health have produced around 650 tonnes of CO2 from flights taken in the last four years, leading to contributions of over €27,000 to the Government’s Climate Action Fund. These payments are meant to offset the carbon emissions caused by official air travel. The majority of these…
Jerry Qualls suffered a heart attack in 2022 and was hospitalized at Holston Valley Medical Center, part of the Ballad Health system. His wife, Katherine Qualls, was told he would not qualify for a heart transplant. She insisted on transferring him to a hospital in Nashville, where he ultimately received a lifesaving heart transplant. Ballad…
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the National Milk Testing Strategy to test for highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. The strategy will require national milk testing and the provision of epidemiological information, initially being implemented in six states. Farmers will need to share raw milk samples for testing and provide epidemiological information about positive…
The targeted killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson sparked widespread anger and outrage towards the American health care system, which is known for high prices and bureaucratic barriers to care. The public dissatisfaction with the system is at an all-time high, with many facing insurance denials, high deductibles, and confusing medical bills. The shooting highlighted…
The UK parliament voted to give the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill a second reading, paving the way for the legalisation of assisted dying in England and Wales. The bill, introduced by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, would allow terminally ill adults with a life expectancy of less than six months to have help…
The USDA has mandated nationwide testing for bird flu virus in raw milk due to rising cases in California. This initiative, known as the National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS), aims to identify herds infected with the avian flu virus. 718 cattle herds nationwide are known to be infected. A California dairy farm has expanded its…
A study from Simon Fraser University found that the use of antidepressants is linked to sexual side effects, such as reduced genital sensitivity that can persist even after stopping the medication. Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) is a syndrome where sexual function does not return to normal after discontinuing antidepressant use. The study, which focused on…
A study found that people with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of dying from infections compared to those without diabetes. The study analyzed data for over 500,000 people with diabetes and found that infections were the third leading cause of death among them. Despite this, the risk of infections is not commonly addressed…
Users on social media platforms like Reddit and X have shared horror stories related to UnitedHealthcare, including denials of care and high bills. One user shared how their patient was denied neurosurgery for chronic migraines. Others shared stories of exorbitant bills after insurance denial for posthumous care or pregnancy. Users ridiculed the late CEO and…
Teri Thomas, CEO of Volpara Health, believes AI will shape the future of radiology. Volpara sold itself to Lunit, a South Korean company specializing in AI tools for cancer diagnostics. This partnership allowed Volpara to share knowledge and improve AI expertise. Thomas highlighted AI benefits, such as assisting radiologists in detecting cancer. At Saint Göran…
Sports-related injuries are common, with almost 28 in every 1,000 patients presenting to primary care with such injuries. Vhi recently hosted a webinar focusing on managing sports-related injuries, including hand and foot injuries, knee osteoarthritis, and injuries in children. Presenters discussed common hand injuries such as Mallet Finger and Jersey Finger, the management of hallux…
The Justice Department has taken legal action against states for confining people with disabilities unnecessarily in places like psychiatric hospitals and nursing homes, a violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act. Some states have addressed these issues, while others, like Georgia, have struggled. Despite progress, challenges remain, including the need to transition more people from…
Dr. Judy L. Chen from the Stein Eye Institute and Doheny Eye Center at UCLA discusses uveitic glaucoma in a Healio Video Perspective from the AAO meeting. Uveitic glaucoma is a challenging condition that often affects younger patients and can lead to permanent vision loss. Dr. Chen highlights the complexity of treating this condition and…
The USDA is implementing a mandatory milk testing program in response to the H5N1 bird flu virus spreading through California dairy herds. The program will begin in six states and aims to provide a clearer picture of the virus’s prevalence in the country’s dairy industry. The federal order will help inform the response to the…
In 2023, England experienced an 11% increase in tuberculosis notifications, marking the largest year-on-year rise since 2000, according to the UK Health Security Agency. There were 4855 notifications in 2023, up from 4380 in 2022. Despite still being considered a country with low incidence, with 8.5 notifications per 100,000 population, England may struggle to meet…
A new study suggests that a radiation-free screening protocol can identify interstitial lung involvement (ILI) in asymptomatic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The study proposed a noninvasive approach using pulmonary function tests (PFT) and pleuro-pulmonary transthoracic ultrasound (LUS) for early detection of ILI. Results showed that 40% of patients had noticeable changes in LUS, with 24%…