A study found that patients with diverticulitis undergoing colonoscopy had a lower risk of colorectal cancer or advanced neoplasia compared to the screening population. However, those with complicated diverticulitis had a higher risk of colorectal cancer. The study analyzed data from over 4.5 million outpatient colonoscopies for screening and almost 92,000 for diverticulitis follow-up. Patients…
Galapagos NV has partnered with Blood Centers of America to open multiple manufacturing sites throughout the U.S. for its cell-based medicines, aiming to differentiate itself in the CAR-T cancer therapy market. The partnership will support the company in advancing its CAR-T therapies for different cancers into pivotal studies and potentially launching them upon approval. This…
Blood vessels in tumors secrete angiocrine factors that support tumor growth. Sfrp1, a factor produced by vascular endothelial cells, plays a crucial role in maintaining cancer stem cells and regulating the Wnt signaling pathway, essential for tumor growth and drug resistance. Researchers from the University of Fukui found that Sfrp1 affects CSC maintenance and tumor…
New research from the University of Exeter has revealed the important role of the protein Contactin-4 (CNTN4) in shaping neurons and its interaction with other proteins in neurodevelopmental disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that CNTN4 plays a key role in neuronal development, particularly in the cortex region of the brain. It also showed…
Dilated fundus exams are traditionally used to detect retinal tears in patients with acute posterior vitreous detachment (aPVD). However, alternative techniques like fundus photography and ultrasonography are also effective in identifying the condition. Research presented at the 2024 annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) suggests that these methods have…
The study found a significant increase in the seizures of fentanyl-containing pills by U.S. law enforcement from 2017 to 2023, with the number of pills seized being 2,300 times greater in 2023. The proportion of fentanyl pills seized relative to total fentanyl seizures also quadrupled during this period. Additionally, seizures of fentanyl in powder form…
Researchers have developed a tiny probe that can be inserted into microcatheters to visualize the arteries inside the brain. This technology, called neuro optical coherence tomography (nOCT), provides high-resolution images from inside the arteries, allowing for better understanding of problems like clots, plaque build-up, and tears in the artery lining. The study, published in Science…
The author questions the limits of what non-doctors in the medical field, such as medical associate practitioners, should be allowed to do. They argue that the finite time available for training new healthcare professionals requires careful consideration of how it is spent. Recent cases of surgical care practitioners performing surgeries without adequate supervision have raised…
Immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system to attack tumors. Patients with ARID1A gene mutations show increased response to immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint blockade. The mutation triggers an antiviral immune response that attracts cancer-fighting immune cells into the tumor, enhancing the effectiveness of treatment. Understanding this mechanism could lead to better patient…
Ribosomal DNA (rDNA) is found in multiple copies in the genome and has not been previously analyzed in genetic studies. A new study of 500,000 individuals reveals that those with more rDNA copies are more prone to inflammation and diseases. This study, led by researchers from Queen Mary University of London and The University of…
When caring for someone with schizophrenia, it is crucial to stay informed about their care by communicating with their medical provider and being present during appointments. Encourage your loved one to fill out relevant paperwork to designate you as their health care proxy. Make sure to report any concerns, such as side effects or worsening…
Colorectal cancer rates have dropped overall in the past 20 years, except for Americans under 45. The cases among young people have increased significantly, with a 333% rise in 15- to 19-year-olds and a 185% increase in 20- to 24-year-olds. While the absolute numbers are still low, experts are concerned about the trend. Symptoms like…
Healthcare is evolving to encompass a holistic view of wellness, including physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Proactive and preventive care is emphasized to prevent costly and complex treatments later on. Financial barriers prevent many people from seeking timely care, leading to increased costs and complications. Healthcare providers play a vital role in addressing these…
A long-term observational extension study found that a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided treat-to-target (T2T) strategy did not significantly improve outcomes for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were in remission. The study compared an MRI-guided T2T strategy with a conventional T2T strategy focused on achieving clinical remission over 5 years. Results showed no significant difference…
Researchers conducted a randomized clinical trial on 154 patients with unstable ankle fractures to compare the outcomes of fixation vs. nonoperative management of medial malleolar fractures. Results showed no statistically significant difference in Olerud-Molander Ankle Scores between the two groups, with a higher score in the fixation group. However, 20% of patients in the non-fixation…
A study involving 510 women in seven states found that dispensing abortion pills through mail-order pharmacies was as effective as obtaining them in person at a clinic or physician’s office. The women received mifepristone and misoprostol and reported high levels of satisfaction with the medication abortion process, with 98% having complete abortions with no adverse…
Margaret Whitehead and colleagues emphasize the importance of education and training for healthcare professionals to address inequities in medical devices, particularly related to skin tone diversity and biases in AI-enabled devices. They highlight the impact of racial bias on medical device performance, such as hidden hypoxaemia in patients with darker skin tones. Recommendations include incorporating…
A new blood test by Labcorp can predict a woman’s risk of developing preeclampsia in her first trimester, potentially improving prenatal care and outcomes for mothers and babies. Preeclampsia affects 1 in 25 U.S. pregnancies and poses a higher risk for Black women. However, some doctors question the test’s utility and effectiveness, as there is…
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have discovered a secondary population of platelets that appear with aging, with hyperreactive behavior and unique molecular properties that make them easier to target with medication. These platelets are produced through a shortcut pathway from hematopoietic stem cells, separate from the main pathway leading to platelet production. Understanding this distinction…
Recent research presented at Digestive Disease Week 2024 in Washington, DC, highlighted a concerning trend of increasing colorectal cancer rates among Americans younger than 45. Colorectal cancer cases in the 15- to 19-year-old group rose by 333% from 1999 to 2020. While still relatively low in absolute numbers, experts are concerned about the rising rates….
Extreme weather events, population growth, and rapid urbanization in Mexico are affecting water availability, quantity, and quality, leading to a water crisis. Approximately 60% of the country is experiencing drought, with higher rates in certain regions. This situation has resulted in water insecurity for over 6 million households, with a significant increase in rural areas…
Immunology and inflammation research is a hot area, with Blackstone funding new startup Uniquity Bio with $300 million for their lead asset solrikitug from Merck, targeting thymic stromal lymphoprotein (TSLP). The drug is in Phase 2 development for COPD and asthma, with potential to treat a range of inflammatory conditions. Competitors include AstraZeneca, Upstream Bio,…
Dr. Brendan O’Shea emphasizes the importance of active citizenship in protecting Irish democracy, stating that it is currently in danger but worth fighting for. He encourages individuals to be prepared to participate in this fight, emphasizing that the time for action is now in 2024. The post on Irish Medical Times urges readers to be…
LG Electronics has launched Primefocus Health, a new venture that will develop a healthcare delivery platform for providers. This platform will use technologies and therapies for remote patient monitoring and providing access to new therapies through technology applications. Providers will be able to collect patient data, communicate with patients, track progress, and intervene when necessary….
Jolynn Mungenast, a financial counselor at Rochester Regional Health, assists patients in finding solutions to pay their hospital bills without resorting to aggressive collection tactics. Rochester Regional Health, a nonprofit system, has eliminated lawsuits, wage garnishments, liens on homes, and denials of care for unpaid bills. Instead, they focus on enrolling patients in health insurance,…
Newron Pharmaceuticals announced positive topline results from a phase 2/3 study of evenamide for patients with chronic schizophrenia who have an inadequate response to current antipsychotic therapy. The study met its primary endpoint of improvement on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Evenamide was well-tolerated, with no new safety concerns identified. A key secondary…
Stay current with the latest developments in biotech by subscribing to the newsletter. Novo is conducting trials on its GLP-1 drugs for various indications, including alcohol-related liver disease. Senator Durbin criticizes Amgen for selling a high dose of a lung cancer drug at a significant cost. Eisai and Biogen have applied to sell their Alzheimer’s…
Freelance journalist Katharine Lang investigates the neurological impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection, highlighting symptoms such as brain fog, loss of smell, and cognitive dysfunction. Studies show that these effects can persist in both severe and mild cases of Covid-19, with older individuals and those with pre-existing neurological disorders at higher risk. The exact mechanism behind these…
A study has identified a new biomarker, miR-519a-3p, for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease in asymptomatic stages. This microRNA is linked to the cellular prion protein and is deregulated in patients with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. The research, led by the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia and University of Barcelona, aims to improve early…
The American Heart Association’s National Teen of Impact program recognizes Gen Z changemakers fighting against heart disease. Aniston Barnette, a 16-year-old from Bristol, Tenn., is the 2024 winner. She promotes CPR awareness and education due to her family’s history of heart disease. Barnette, along with other young volunteers, raise funds and advocate for heart health…
People with schizophrenia need lifelong treatment, which may need adjustments over time due to changes in their condition or triggers such as major life events, substance abuse, or co-existing psychiatric illnesses. Signs that treatment may need to be adjusted include changes in behavior or mood, withdrawal, increased symptoms, or difficulty with medication. It is important…
Mammography is recommended for average-risk women for breast cancer screening, but choosing additional screening methods can be complex. Factors affecting the decision include cancer detection rates, false-positive findings, and patient risk factors like family history and genetic mutations. Supplemental screening options include digital breast tomosynthesis, ultrasound, and MRI. Studies show that digital breast tomosynthesis improves…
A new partnership between St Vincent’s Healthcare Group and UPMC aims to increase patient access to life-saving technologies, focusing on cardiology, urology, oncology, muscular-skeletal, and community care. The collaboration will establish the SVPH – UPMC Centre of Teaching Excellence in Robotics, with a focus on robotic-assisted surgery, particularly using the Medtronic Hugo Robotic-assisted Surgery system….
California is considering legalizing the therapeutic use of psychedelic drugs such as ecstasy, magic mushrooms, and others. The legislation proposed by state legislators would allow the use of these drugs in state-approved locations under supervision and regulate their production and distribution. This move comes as research shows promising results in using psychedelics to treat conditions…
The Apple Women’s Health Study found that irregular menstrual cycles, with or without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are linked to increased cardiometabolic risk. This study, involving over 60,000 women, highlighted the importance of menstrual history as a vital sign for health. Women with persistently irregular cycles were more likely to have cardiometabolic conditions such as…
In 2023, U.S. drug overdose deaths decreased by 3%, the first decrease in five years, with a total of 107,543 deaths. This slight improvement is seen as a glimmer of hope in the ongoing drug crisis caused by fentanyl and poly-substance deaths. While the end of the crisis is not in sight, the decrease is…
Immune-based therapies, like immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy (CAR-T), have seen increased use in cancer treatment. This has led to cardiovascular adverse events, including myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis, thromboembolism, and accelerated atherosclerosis. ICIs impact T cell activation, leading to myocardial inflammation in ICIMy, with combination therapy increasing the risk. CAR-T…
A recent study has uncovered how SARS-CoV-2 and its variants evade the immune system, shedding light on potential therapeutic strategies for COVID-19. By focusing on the interactions between the virus and the innate immune system, researchers found that infected cells reduce important immune signals that activate natural killer cells. The study identified a viral protein,…
New research presented at the 10th European Stroke Organisation Conference reveals that high-income individuals and those with higher education levels have lower risks of post-stroke mortality. The study analyzed data from stroke patients in Gothenburg, Sweden, highlighting disparities in stroke survival based on social determinants of health (SDoH). Patients with one unfavorable SDoH factor faced…
Schizophrenia manifested in Dawn Brown’s son at a young age, leading to a difficult journey of finding effective treatment. Medication was just a small part of the treatment plan, with maintaining overall health and wellness being crucial. Engagement, empathy, and collaboration were key in helping loved ones with schizophrenia seek treatment and manage symptoms. Trial…
A study found that individuals with overweight and obesity who hit a weight loss plateau after 6 months on a healthy diet may not lose further weight by switching to a different diet. The research, conducted on participants with overweight and obesity who switched between healthy low-carb and low-fat diets, found that weight loss slowed…
Emergency Department failures are a common occurrence in the news, with a recent case of a 16-year-old girl dying from sepsis due to understaffing at University Hospital Limerick. The ED was overwhelmed with cases that night, leading to a tragic outcome. Emergency healthcare workers face challenges such as unclear workload definition, lack of control over…
The Mi’kmaq Nation used $50,000 of opioid settlement funds to build a healing lodge for sweat ceremonies to help people recover from addiction. The lodge accommodates up to 10 people at once for traditional ceremonies. The tribe received $150,000 from settlements with opioid companies, part of a larger $1.5 billion payout to tribes over 15…
Researchers found that a 12-month self-guided, low-intensity, video-based lifestyle intervention helped patients with COPD and obesity lose weight. The intervention group also showed improvements in 6-minute walk distance, dyspnea after walking, Framingham Risk score, BMI, and quality of life compared to the usual care group. However, there were no significant differences in walk distance and…
The reporter describes a strange experience purchasing raw milk, which is illegal to trade interstate, from a man named Karl in Washington. Despite the risks of illness associated with raw milk, the FDA has not enforced the ban on its transport across state lines. Raw milk enthusiasts claim it is nutritious, while public health officials…
The PRE-EMPT trial aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness of long acting progestogens with the combined oral contraceptive pill in preventing endometriosis related pain recurrence after surgery. The study included 405 women randomized to receive either a long acting progestogen or COCP. At three years, both groups showed around a 40% improvement in pain compared…
A new system called Surgment utilizes image segmentation AI algorithms to enable surgeons to create interactive educational videos for trainees. This system allows for the creation of visual questions and feedback based on surgery videos, enhancing surgical learning before entering the operating room. Surgeons can select video frames, create questions targeting anatomy or procedural skills,…
A recent study examined the cardiovascular burden and natural history of the V142I variant of the transthyretin gene among US Black carriers in mid to late life. This genetic variant is a common cause of transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis, leading to a higher risk of heart failure and mortality. The study analyzed data from over 23,000…
When medical professionals Jennifer and Daniel Suders were at a pool in Florida, they witnessed a young boy drowning. They immediately sprang into action, performing CPR and ultimately saving the boy’s life. The boy made a full recovery, and the family was incredibly grateful. Jennifer and Daniel reflect on how the experience reminded them of…
Twelve-year-old Yahushua Robinson died from a heart defect exacerbated by heat and physical exertion after being told to run outside in 107-degree weather at his California middle school. His family is supporting a bill that would create guidelines for extreme weather physical activity at public schools. States like Florida have better protections for student athletes…