A Michigan State University researcher has developed a new model for studying breast cancer that focuses on the E2F5 gene’s role in cancer metastasis. Through the study of genetic models and bioinformatics, the researcher’s lab identified altered regulation of Cyclin D1, a protein linked to metastatic breast tumors. The removal of E2F5 in the mammary…
Scientists have discovered a way to target circular fragments of DNA present in aggressive cancers, opening new treatment possibilities. These extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) structures are common in difficult-to-treat cancers like glioblastoma and small cell lung cancer. Researchers found a drug that specifically kills ecDNA-containing cancer cells while sparing normal cells. The study, funded by Cancer…
A study presented at the ACG 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting found that patients with celiac disease who take an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) may experience worse outcomes, such as increased risk of iron deficiency, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The study suggested caution when prescribing ARBs to people with celiac disease due to potential negative effects…
The FDA is considering changing the regulatory status of oral phenylephrine, a key ingredient in nasal decongestants, due to concerns about its efficacy. If removed from guidelines, many over-the-counter cold and allergy products may be pulled from shelves. The FDA emphasized that the issue is based on lack of efficacy, not safety. This proposal comes…
The author discusses the outdated practices in the healthcare system, specifically the experience of patients needing X-rays. They share personal experiences of their child being in pain and having to endure a difficult process to get an X-ray. The author questions why X-rays cannot be brought to the bedside, suggesting the use of innovative technology…
Becoming a physical therapist requires dedication, education, and practical experience. To pursue a career in physical therapy, aspiring professionals must complete a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from an accredited program. It is essential to gain relevant experience through volunteering or working as a physical therapy aide before applying to DPT programs. Developing strong communication…
Julie Rovner is the host of KFF Health News’ weekly health policy podcast “What the Health?” where she discusses the potential impact of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency on health policy. Changes to the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, and public health infrastructure may be on the agenda, depending on who staffs key positions. Panelists…
A study found that women with specific genomic alterations in circulating tumor DNA had worse survival outcomes in metastatic breast cancer. The detection of TP53 and ESR1 alterations was linked to poorer survival, while PIK3CA alterations showed no association. The study suggests that circulating tumor DNA could be a prognostic biomarker in this setting, guiding…
Between now and Inauguration Day, President-elect Donald Trump and his allies face the daunting task of appointing 4,000 individuals to staff his administration. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent figure in the Trump campaign and advocate for “Make America Healthy Again,” is in a position to influence the selection of leaders for health-related agencies. Kennedy…
NICE is set to evaluate numerous potential treatments for Alzheimer’s disease in the coming years. This year, they rejected two new drugs, lecanemab and donanemab, due to the high cost and required intensive monitoring for side effects. Despite not being available through NHS, these drugs have been approved by the MHRA and offer hope for…
The research discusses the use of liquid biopsy as a promising tool for detecting pancreatic incidentaloma, which are incidental findings in the pancreas often discovered during imaging scans. These findings can sometimes indicate early stage pancreatic cancer. Traditional diagnostic methods like MRI and CT scans have limitations, prompting the exploration of liquid biopsy for its…
Cleveland Clinic researchers are presenting updated findings from their study of a vaccine aimed at preventing triple-negative breast cancer. The vaccine was well-tolerated and produced an immune response in most patients. The ongoing clinical trial, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, is evaluating safety and immune response. Anixa Biosciences, Inc. is partnering on the…
The FDA has approved obecabtagene autoleucel (obe-cel) for relapsed or refractory adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia based on efficacy and safety findings from the FELIX study. The treatment showed a CR/CRi rate of 77% and a CR rate of 57% with minimal residual disease negativity in 96% of patients. Low rates of severe cytokine release…
Exercise has been found to be an effective natural way for new moms to alleviate baby blues and postpartum depression. Research shows that engaging in at least 80 minutes of moderate activity per week can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms. Postpartum depression affects over 10% of women in the first year after childbirth, while…
Since its launch in 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has received over 10 million calls, providing free and confidential support for those in emotional distress. The hotline has seen an increase in calls, prompting discussions at the Behavioral Health Tech conference on the importance of provider organizations partnering with the lifeline. Panelists emphasized…
The RCSI Millin Meeting will recognize excellence in original research in surgery and highlight the importance of supporting the next generation of surgeons in Ireland. A new pan-specialty peer support community called the RCSI Early Career Surgical Network will be launched to provide support, advice, and networking opportunities for surgeons completing training or starting practice…
MedSpa treatments are essential for self-care, offering lasting benefits beyond just superficial results. Microneedling is popular for its collagen-boosting effects, targeting multiple skin concerns at once. Chemical peels rejuvenate the skin, reducing wrinkles and promoting a glowing complexion. Botox not only smooths wrinkles but also provides relief for chronic issues like migraines. Laser skin resurfacing…
Voters in Arizona, Missouri, and Nevada passed protections for abortion rights in their state constitutions on Election Day. Despite this, many who supported these measures also voted for Donald Trump. The data from the VoteCast survey showed that the economy and healthcare were more important to voters than abortion rights. Trump’s supporters who backed abortion…
The FDA has approved obecabtagene autoleucel for adults with relapsed refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The approval was based on a study that showed a 42% complete remission rate within 3 months of infusion. Common adverse events included cytokine release syndrome, neurologic toxicities, infections, and musculoskeletal pain. Obecabtagene autoleucel is administered as a split…
President-elect Donald Trump centered attacks on transgender people during his campaign, calling gender-affirming care “left-wing gender insanity” and “child abuse.” He plans to halt federal funding for such care and only recognize two genders based on birth assignment. Providers anticipate challenges as the administration could disrupt evidence-based care. The Trevor Project saw a 700% increase…
Academic norms define the standards of behavior expected from academics, including preservation of autonomy, integrity, a priori formulation of hypotheses, appropriate research methods, and respect for others’ work. Violations of these norms are classified as felonies, which include fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism, and misdemeanors, which are questionable research practices. Research misconduct has increased since the…
A randomized controlled trial conducted by the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute showed that combining structured exercise training with reduced sitting time can protect against heart damage and declines in cardiovascular fitness in adults undergoing stem cell transplantation for blood cancers. The study found that patients who participated in a four-month activity program had better…
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has launched the Institute for Cell Therapy Discovery & Innovation to develop impactful cell therapies for cancer and other conditions. Led by Dr. Katy Rezvani, the institute aims to advance immunology and cell engineering research to create new treatments quickly. MD Anderson researchers already have made significant…
A study found that topical ivermectin treatment for rosacea increased Staphylococcus epidermidis on the skin, while reducing Demodex mites. Ten adults with rosacea were treated with ivermectin cream for 12 weeks. The density of Demodex mites decreased significantly on lesional skin, while S. epidermidis increased. The treatment also reduced papules and Clinician’s Erythema Assessment scores….
The FDA has proposed banning oral phenylephrine, often found in decongestants. The ban is due to its lack of effectiveness, not safety. Several popular cold medications contain this ingredient, but the ban does not affect nasal spray phenylephrine. Companies can continue selling products with oral phenylephrine until the ban is finalized, but will need to…
Investment in digital youth mental health is increasing as more young Americans struggle with mental health disorders. Investors at the Behavioral Health Tech conference discussed the importance of measuring impact and involving young people in the process. Companies need to focus on uptake and adherence, as well as measuring outcomes. Investors are looking for evidence…
The HSE is reviewing a new policy that will only approve consultant posts if productivity levels reach those seen in 2019. The CEO informed the Board that this mandate is being analyzed to understand its impact, with exemptions for certain posts and specialties. Consultant outpatient appointments have decreased in recent years, raising concerns about meeting…
Autophagy is a cellular process that helps remove or repair damaged cells, slowing the aging process. Spermidine helps regulate autophagy, potentially supporting anti-aging. It is a polyamine compound naturally found in humans and certain foods, influencing cell growth, tissue generation, and possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest spermidine can delay aging by inducing autophagy….
Voters in Missouri and Nebraska approved ballot measures for guaranteed paid sick leave for workers, joining 15 other states and D.C. in requiring this benefit. Proponents celebrated the results, highlighting the importance of not having to choose between work and health. The coronavirus pandemic emphasized the need for such benefits, with federal protections ending in…
The FDA has extended the Prescription Drug User Fee Act date for NT-501, an encapsulated cell therapy for macular telangiectasia type 2, to March 18, 2025. Neurotech Pharmaceuticals provided additional data to the FDA for review, leading to the extension. The CEO of Neurotech, Richard Small, expressed commitment to providing any necessary information for the…
Following Donald Trump’s election victory, National Institutes of Health director Monica Bertagnolli reassured the agency’s workforce of over 20,000 employees about their mission and commitment to biomedical research. The NIH stated they were ready to work with the new administration despite uncertainties about possible budget cuts and politicization of science. Researchers are feeling uneasy about…
A review led by neurologist Cathie Sudlow has recommended streamlining access to the UK’s vast health data banks to boost biomedical research and improve lives. The UK has a large and deep health database that is used for patient care, equitable health delivery, and research. The report highlights the importance of making this data more…
In this article by Stephanie Cowdery, Anna Ugalde, Trish Livingston, and Victoria White, it is highlighted that one in five people worldwide are diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, with almost one in two Australians diagnosed by age 85. The article provides six ways to support a friend diagnosed with cancer, including recognizing and responding…
A study from the Republic of Korea published in JAMA Dermatology suggests that individuals who had COVID-19 face a significantly higher risk of developing autoimmune and autoinflammatory connective tissue disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, and alopecia. The risks were found to be elevated in individuals with severe COVID-19 cases, Delta variant infections, and…
Across Canada, patients facing surgical delays and long wait lists for procedures like hip and knee replacements struggle with pain and reduced quality of life while waiting up to a year for consultation and another year for surgery in the public healthcare system. Some patients turn to private centers, spending savings on care. Measures are…
A recent study found that excessive daytime sleepiness in elderly adults may indicate a risk of developing motoric cognitive risk syndrome, a precursor to dementia. This syndrome is characterized by slow gait and memory issues. Individuals with this syndrome may benefit from dietary changes, lifestyle interventions, and medication to slow cognitive decline. The study followed…
The healthcare industry is transitioning to value-based care, which presents challenges for behavioral health providers in terms of contracting. CVS Health/Aetna’s chief psychiatric officer, Taft Parsons III, discussed these challenges at the Behavioral Health Tech conference. While primary care providers like Oak Street Health are taking on global risk contracts that include behavioral health outcomes,…
Beacon Hospital in Ireland has introduced focal therapy, a new treatment for prostate cancer that aims to reduce side effects. The treatment involves using high intensity focused ultrasound energy to target cancerous cells while preserving surrounding tissue. Compared to traditional treatments like surgery and radiotherapy, focal therapy minimizes the risks of side effects such as…
La victoria electoral de Donald Trump podría tener un impacto negativo en los programas de salud pública en Estados Unidos. Trump planea reducir los programas nacionales de salud, lo que podría aumentar la cantidad de personas sin seguro e imponer nuevas barreras al aborto y otros servicios de salud reproductiva. Además, la inclusión de Robert…
Patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) who use anticoagulants have a lower risk of vision loss, stroke, and other cranial ischemic complications, according to a study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. Older age and hypertension increase the risk for these complications in patients with GCA. The study analyzed data from 1,946 patients with…
The letter is urging readers to consider subscribing to STAT for their coverage of health and medicine. They emphasize the importance of understanding these issues in the current political climate, especially with the reelection of Donald Trump. STAT has a history of covering politics and health care, and they have recently expanded their D.C. team…
will have more say in their treatment and care plans, with a stronger focus on their human rights and dignity. This new legislation aims to provide better support and protection for those with mental health conditions, shifting towards a more compassionate and person-centered approach. The reforms have been welcomed by mental health advocates and professionals…
Researchers from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Metamor Institute, Our Lady of the Lake, and LSU Health-New Orleans found that metabolic surgery in patients with heart failure led to a decrease in the need for oral diuretics to manage symptoms. The study, published in The American Journal of Cardiology, reviewed over 2,300 patient records, showing…
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered that a combination of green algae and yeast can boost the efficiency of wastewater treatment, leading to more sustainable and energy-efficient processes. This unique combination enhances the ability of microorganisms to absorb ammonium and phosphate ions in wastewater. The yeast produces carbon dioxide, which helps the green algae…
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 35 studies with 4072 participants found that postpartum exercise reduces the severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms in individuals within the first year after childbirth. Initiating exercise within 12 weeks postpartum was associated with greater reductions in depressive symptoms. Postpartum exercise-only interventions resulted in a moderate reduction in depressive…
The workplace can have a significant impact on mental health, with 15% of working-age adults estimated to have a mental disorder in 2019. Traditional treatments are sometimes inadequate, leading to interest in expanding access to psychedelic-assisted therapy. Ketamine and psilocybin, two types of psychedelics, show promise in mental health treatment. Employers play a crucial role…
In South Dakota, a years-long syphilis outbreak has disproportionately affected Native Americans. Public health officials are urging people to get tested through billboards and TV ads. Despite soaring infection rates, federal officials have not declared it a public health emergency. Tribal leaders are calling for more resources to address the crisis, as cases continue to…
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that vitamin K2 supplementation reduced the frequency, intensity, and duration of nocturnal leg cramps in older adults. The study included 199 adults aged 65 years or older who received daily vitamin K2 capsules or a placebo for 8 weeks. Results showed a significant reduction in the frequency…
The latest episode of “The Readout LOUD” discusses the impact of less regulation by the FDA on the biotech industry, the challenges faced by vaccine makers like Pfizer, and the potential effects of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement on the obesity drug market. Guests Lizzy Lawrence, Brian Skorney, and Daphne Zohar provide insights into…
Over 100 governments at a United Nations event in Colombia have pledged to end violence against children by banning corporal punishment and improving services for affected children. Nine countries, including Burundi, Czechia, and Nigeria, promised to pursue legislation against corporal punishment. The event held in Bogotá showcased a commitment to investing in parenting support and…