#fitness

Researchers have developed a new imaging technique using fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) with two different near-infrared fluorophores to enhance the visibility of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tumors and nerves during surgery. By using two color fluorescence visualization, surgeons can better differentiate between cancerous tissues and nerves, potentially improving surgical outcomes by allowing for…

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a poor prognosis due to challenges in early diagnosis, aggressive tumor biology, and limited treatment options. Research has shown a link between gut microbiota dysbiosis and PDAC, suggesting that manipulating the microbiome could aid in screening, diagnosing, and treating the disease. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promise as an adjunct…

A cohort study compared prostate cancer patients with a control group and found that those treated for prostate cancer had higher rates of complications, including urinary and sexual issues. Radiotherapy was associated with increased risks for bladder cancer and radiation-specific complications. The study followed 29,196 participants over a median of 10.2 years and analyzed ten…

Avid Bioservices, a CDMO specializing in biologic drugs, is going private in a $1.1 billion M&A deal with private equity firms GHO Capital Partners and Ampersand Capital Partners. The deal values Avid at $12.50 per share, a premium to its stock price. Avid was formerly a subsidiary of Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, focusing on CDMO work since…

Voters in seven out of 10 states supported abortion rights in recent elections, reshaping the patchwork of abortion laws in the country. Despite this, the actual access to abortion remains largely unchanged as preexisting state laws are contested in court. States like Ohio and Michigan offer a glimpse into the lengthy legal process required for…

Intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg showed improvements in best corrected visual acuity for patients with diabetic macular edema in a diverse cohort. Data presented at Academy 2024 demonstrated meaningful gains regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, acuity, or central retinal thickness. The PHOTON trial compared aflibercept 8 mg and 2 mg in patients with DME, finding…

Human cases of H5N1 bird flu linked to an outbreak in U.S. dairy cattle prompt concern about missed infections among farmworkers. Blood tests reveal evidence of recent infections in some workers, indicating potential spread from cows to humans. While the virus has not shown the ability for person-to-person transmission, efforts are being made to intensify…

A health scandal in Turkey has resulted in the closure of eleven private hospitals and the trial of 47 people involved in allowing newborn babies to die for profit. Charges include negligent homicide and forgery, with prosecutors seeking lengthy prison sentences for the alleged ringleaders. The scheme involved diverting babies with complex health conditions to…

The FDA is proposing to remove phenylephrine from common over-the-counter decongestants due to lack of effectiveness against nasal congestion. Products like Sudafed PE, Vicks Sinex, and Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion contain phenylephrine but have been found ineffective. The proposal is open for comments until May 7 and is specific to the oral form of phenylephrine,…

The Society for Neuroscience (SfN) annual meeting is a crucial event for global neuroscientists, offering groundbreaking research presentations, lectures, and networking opportunities. With over 30,000 attendees this year, the conference has become a career milestone for many neuroscientists, allowing them to advance their contributions to the field. Institutions like the Max Planck Florida Institute for…

Increased telehealth use in primary care practices is linked to reduced rates of low-value cervical cancer screening and thyroid testing, according to a study using Medicare fee-for-service claims data. High telehealth utilization was associated with lower rates of these specific low-value care services, suggesting telehealth can help deliver primary care services without unnecessary or wasteful…

A recent study found that taking vitamin D supplements during pregnancy can have a lasting impact on children’s bone health, improving bone density into mid-childhood. The study, which began in 2009, involved over 1,000 pregnant women in England who were randomly divided into two groups: one received vitamin D supplements, while the other received a…

The maternity journey is filled with uncertainty and questions for expecting mothers. Health plans can help by showing they care, being reliable and consistent, and taking action. Contextualized and personalized communications can establish trust and provide valuable information throughout the pregnancy. Consistent touchpoints and cultural competency ensure all members feel supported. Case managers can intervene…

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) reports a decline in vaccination rates among healthcare workers in hospitals and long-term care facilities. In hospitals, only 50.3% of healthcare workers received the influenza vaccine last winter, down from previous years. The decline is part of a trend since the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Uptake rates varied…

Across the United States, there is a lack of transparency in how opioid settlement funds are being spent in various states, including Idaho. While some states are making efforts to publicly report their expenditures in a clear and accessible manner, many fall short of providing meaningful information to the public. Without details on the organizations…

A study conducted at Meir Medical Center in Israel found that a simple educational intervention on antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing in non-rheumatology departments led to a decrease in the number of unnecessary tests and an increase in the positivity rate. The intervention consisted of 30-minute group sessions emphasizing the risks of ANA testing and the…

Tattoos are often seen as expressions of individuality, but in the medical world, they can serve as reminders of a difficult past for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. While necessary for accurate treatment, these tattoos can have emotional and physical implications, leading to negative feelings and complications. However, advancements in technology like surface-guided radiation therapy…

The paper by Hirt et al. published in BMJ in May 2024 corrects a small error in recommendation 5 of the TARCiS statement. The correction addresses an issue in the original recommendation, ensuring accuracy in the guidance provided. This update contributes to the overall reliability and validity of the TARCiS statement for future reference and…

Bangladesh is facing a surge in dengue cases, turning it into a year-round crisis due to climate change. The Aedes mosquito, which spreads dengue, is breeding in stagnant pools, leading to a rise in cases. Pediatric wards are overcrowded with children sharing beds due to the increase in cases. In November, 134 deaths were recorded,…

A groundbreaking discovery in pancreatic cancer treatment reveals that the epigenetic silencing of the BEND4 gene can enhance the effectiveness of ATM inhibitors. The study shows that BEND4 is frequently methylated and silenced in pancreatic cancer, affecting DNA damage repair. Through cell line experiments and tissue analysis, researchers found that BEND4 methylation is associated with…

AI-assisted colonoscopy significantly improves adenoma detection rates and reduces missed adenoma rates regardless of endoscopist experience or healthcare setting. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials involving over 23,000 participants found a 20% increase in ADR and a 55% decrease in adenoma miss rate with AI assistance. The use of AI also…

Exercise is important for preventing health issues, including cancer. New research suggests that exercising at specific times of the day can significantly lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Engaging in physical activity in the early and late evening was found to reduce the risk of bowel cancer by 11%. The study, which involved nearly 86,000…

Former President Donald Trump’s return to the White House is expected to lead to changes in the healthcare industry, such as scaling back federal insurance programs like Medicaid and Medicare and potentially imposing restrictions on reproductive care. Many individuals in the behavioral health space are cautiously optimistic or anxious about the impact of Trump’s victory….

Dr. Ray O’Connor discusses the importance of high-quality rehabilitation in minimizing the impact of strokes. Strokes are a significant global health issue, with around 100,000 people experiencing them each year. Quality rehabilitation can help reduce the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social effects of strokes, benefiting both patients and caregivers. The National Institute for Health and…

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is prepared to challenge any rollback of reproductive health rights or proposed national abortion ban by President-elect Donald Trump and a Republican Senate. Bonta, a Democrat, has been leading the effort to defend reproductive rights, implementing laws in California to expand abortion protections. He has sued anti-abortion groups and hospitals…

Botox Cosmetic was recently approved for the treatment of platysma bands, making it the first neurotoxin to be approved for four indications. This approval allows for marketing directly to consumers, increasing awareness of this nonsurgical solution. Phase 3 clinical trials showed significant improvement in the appearance of platysma bands with Botox Cosmetic compared to a…

The executive in charge of AstraZeneca operations in China is under detention by Chinese authorities investigating employees for potential illegal activities. AstraZeneca confirmed that Leon Wang, an executive vice president overseeing international operations, is being investigated along with a small number of employees. Five current and former AstraZeneca employees in China were arrested for questioning…

This study aimed to investigate the association between sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor use and the risk of all-cause mortality among patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The study included 6,776 patients who started SGLT-2 inhibitors and 14,686 patients who remained on standard-of-care heart failure drugs. The results showed a 25% lower risk of…

A study published in Neurology found that individuals with a higher Brain Care Score (BCS), reflecting healthy lifestyle choices, had a decreased risk of stroke, late-life depression, and dementia even with a higher genetic predisposition. The BCS measures healthy habits that can offset genetic risks for brain conditions. Researchers analyzed data from over 368,000 individuals…

New research from Emory University has found that autoantibodies in the nasal cavity can predict the severity of COVID-19 symptoms, with more than 70% of people with mild or moderate cases developing these antibodies. Surprisingly, these antibodies were linked to fewer symptoms, better antiviral immunity, and faster recovery. The presence of nasal autoantibodies appears to…

Patients with cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have a higher risk of developing psoriasis than those receiving chemotherapy or targeted therapy. A study of 135,230 patients found that ICI users were more than twice as likely to develop psoriasis compared to non-ICI users. Adjusted for demographic factors and comorbidities, the risk remained significant….

A recent study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that expectant mothers with obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have a higher risk of giving birth to smaller babies. Babies born to mothers with PCOS were found to have lower birth weights, shorter lengths, and smaller head circumferences. This effect was more…

Acadia Pharmaceuticals obtained FDA approval for the drug Daybue, the first drug for Rett syndrome, after acquiring rights to it and investing a significant amount of money. They were awarded a priority review voucher with the approval, which allows for expedited review of future drugs. Acadia sold this voucher for $150 million, with $50 million…

A recent summit focused on educating healthcare professionals about identifying and supporting victims of human trafficking. Studies show that a large percentage of trafficking victims seek healthcare services but are rarely identified. A group has been established to provide awareness training to students in healthcare disciplines. Legislation and directives are in place to ensure training…

A cohort study on over 17,000 South Koreans with ADHD found that SSRIs are safe when taken with methylphenidate. Researchers found that ADHD patients are often affected by depression and can benefit from SSRI use. However, certain antidepressants should not be used with ADHD medications. The study showed that there were no significant differences in…

Voters in 7 out of 10 states supported abortion rights in recent ballots, potentially changing the landscape of abortion laws in the US. States including Colorado, Maryland, and New York approved amendments to protect abortion rights, while others like Florida and South Dakota did not. Arizona and Missouri voters passed constitutional amendments to protect abortion…

Patients living outside of metropolitan areas travel longer distances for primary care and specialty visits compared to those in metropolitan areas. A study analyzed data from 2018 to 2021 and found that patients outside of metropolitan areas traveled a median of 28 minutes for primary care visits. The study also reported longer travel times for…

Abortion rights advocates faced setbacks in the recent election with notable defeats and a new Trump presidency. Despite efforts to protect abortion rights at the state level, several key initiatives were rejected. States like Florida, South Dakota, and Nebraska saw mixed results in their abortion-related ballot measures. However, other states voted to codify abortion access…

A recent analysis of data covering 2023-24 from the national child measurement programme in England revealed that almost a third of children in the most deprived areas have obesity by the time they finish primary school, compared to half as many in the least deprived areas. The rate of childhood obesity in England rose slightly…

Scientists have found that certain E. coli bacteria in the gut promote colon cancer by binding to intestinal cells and releasing a DNA-damaging toxin. This study sheds light on a new approach to potentially reduce cancer risk and was conducted by Prof. Lars Vereecke and Prof. Han Remaut. The bacteria produce a genotoxin called “colibactin”…

Researchers have identified ceramide synthase 5 and 6 enzymes as crucial in how saturated fats worsen multiple sclerosis symptoms. These enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of the sphingolipid ceramide C16 from palmitic acid, contributing to the severity of neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis. By inhibiting these enzymes in murine models, researchers found reduced disease…

When treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and brain metastases, brain radiotherapy has been the standard option. However, evidence suggests that immunotherapy may improve outcomes, especially when combined with radiotherapy. Studies have shown that pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, has activity in brain metastases. Combining radiotherapy and immunotherapy has shown a synergistic effect…

A recent study suggests that getting an additional 46 minutes of sleep can improve well-being and positive traits like gratitude, resilience, and prosocial behaviors. The study, published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, found that even small changes in sleep can impact mental well-being. Researchers observed that people with positive traits tend to have better…

Tennessee, facing poor health outcomes, highlights the impact of social determinants of health (SDoH) on healthcare quality. Economic disparities contribute to healthcare inequality in both urban and rural areas. The state is implementing solutions like screening for SDoH, preventive care programs, and hospital community benefit programs to improve health outcomes. Integrating multidisciplinary care teams, improving…

The EVEREST project aims to improve treatment for rheumatoid arthritis patients by implementing dedicated clinical resources in Irish rheumatology units. Led by Prof Maya Buch and Dr Donncha O’Gradaigh, the project will provide tools like workbooks and educational videos to support the implementation of treatment targets. The initiative is supported by a global team of…

Former President Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House may lead to changes in public health insurance programs that could increase the uninsured rate and impose barriers to abortion and reproductive care. There may be cuts to the Affordable Care Act’s consumer protections, work requirements in Medicaid, and funding cuts to safety net insurance….

A study conducted in England and Wales found that demographic factors significantly influenced the initiation of biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients under 40 years old were more than twice as likely to receive these drugs compared to older individuals, while Asian patients were almost half as likely…

Republican Donald Trump won the presidency, promising to shake up public health institutions and cut costs. He mentioned campaign lieutenant Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in his victory speech to work on health, medicine, and food policy. Both Trump and Democratic opponent Kamala Harris pledged to strengthen Medicare and reduce health care costs, but diverged on…

Three individuals from London were sentenced for drug charges after an investigation revealed their scheme to import unregulated drugs from India for distribution in the UK and overseas. The City of London Police seized over 730 kg of drugs, including pharmaceutical grade opioids and over a million tablets. The individuals were found guilty of conspiring…

A study from Baylor University shows that even minor increases in sleep duration, just 46 extra minutes per night, can significantly improve overall well-being. Published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, the research explores how better sleep habits enhance gratitude, resilience, and prosocial behaviors. Results indicated that individuals who increased their sleep duration experienced higher…