The CDC has issued a warning about an e-coli outbreak linked to organic carrots, sickening dozens and leading to one death. Symptoms include watery or bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting, with higher risk for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. The outbreak has affected 39 people in 18 states,…
A study from Montefiore Medical Center found that remission of diabetes after bariatric surgery may only be a short-term outcome, with a relationship between postsurgical weight gain and an increase in hemoglobin A1c levels. The term “diabesity” describes the coexistence of diabetes and obesity, which is a global epidemic. While bariatric surgery has shown success…
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that women’s increased adherence to coronavirus policies may have contributed to their lower vulnerability and mortality compared to men in the early phase of the pandemic. Researchers found significant gender differences in attitudes and behaviors related to COVID-19 through a survey with…
Healthcare providers are working to create more consumer-friendly experiences for patients. Nworah Ayogu, a healthcare expert, emphasizes the importance of providers shifting away from paternalistic attitudes and focusing on patient-centered care. He suggests that providers prioritize patient experience over optimizing for doctors, and respect patient autonomy even when it goes against clinical recommendations. Ayogu also…
The California Office of Health Care Affordability aims to increase insurers’ spending on primary care to 15% by 2034 in order to improve access to preventive care services and overall health outcomes for Californians. This target is set well above the current industry rate of 7%. The agency believes that health plans can incentivize providers…
At the AAO meeting, Dr. Alexander S. Fein discusses managing patients with transient monocular vision loss, which can be a sign of an impending stroke. Fein emphasizes the importance of evaluating patients’ A1c levels, diabetes status, lipid panel, and blood pressure to prevent future morbidity and mortality. This condition may have a vascular origin and…
Johns Hopkins surgeon Marty Makary has been critical of the FDA, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, for not authorizing innovative products quickly, not emphasizing recommendations from expert panels, and lacking active monitoring of vaccine adverse events. He has been tapped by President-elect Trump to lead the FDA, and his potential changes to the agency include…
Around 2000 claimants in the UK are planning to sue Johnson & Johnson over allegations that their talcum powder products caused cancer. The law firm KP Law has sent a letter before action to the company and will be filing for a group litigation order at the High Court in London. This will be the…
Antibiotic resistance is a pressing global health threat, and addressing it requires innovative education approaches, as highlighted in a recent study of pharmacy students from seven Middle Eastern countries. The study revealed that while students displayed a strong foundation of knowledge on antibiotic resistance, there were gaps in their practices, particularly around self-medication with antibiotics….
A study by Yale researchers found that parents are less likely to intervene when children are getting dressed if the task is framed as a learning opportunity. Overparenting, where adults take over tasks that children should do on their own, diminishes children’s motivation and ability to complete tasks independently. The study showed that framing tasks…
Canada has confirmed its first human case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) linked to H5N1, causing concern among virologists and infectious disease experts. The infected teenager in British Columbia remains in critical condition, with mutations in the virus raising fears of easier human transmission. Despite isolated cases in North America, the risk of widespread…
Research has revealed a connection between severe COVID-19 infections and cancer tumor regression, offering potential new options for cancer treatment. Scientists at the Northwestern Medicine Canning Thoracic Institute discovered that RNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus can trigger the development of immune cells known as inducible nonclassical monocytes (I-NCMs) with anti-cancer properties. These cells could be…
A large randomized trial in the United States compared surgery with antibiotics for adults with appendicitis. Antibiotics were found to be noninferior based on 30-day health status. Seven out of 10 adults safely avoided appendectomy for 90 days with antibiotics, although this number dropped for patients with appendicoliths. Patients with appendicoliths were more likely to…
It is crucial for clinicians to stay informed on the latest strategies for geriatric assessment and integrated oncology care due to the growing elderly population in America and high prevalence of cancer in this age group. Improved strategies can enhance quality of life, reduce unplanned hospitalizations, and prevent early treatment discontinuation in older individuals receiving…
Healthcare organizations are facing challenges in finding and retaining qualified talent from Gen Z, who prioritize a supportive workplace culture, work-life balance, clear career advancement pathways, and effective training and onboarding. Gen Z workers often feel burnt out due to intense pressures, and value employers who prioritize their growth and well-being. Healthcare leaders can address…
President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House may embolden Republicans looking to weaken or repeal the Affordable Care Act, but facing procedural and political obstacles. Trump’s interest in retooling the health law, along with support from high-ranking Republican lawmakers, could lead to significant changes. Congress has the power to change the ACA without Democratic…
Acuitive Technologies received FDA clearance for Citrepore, a synthetic bioactive bone filler designed to promote natural bone healing in orthopedic surgery patients. Citrepore has 80% porosity to allow resorption of saline, blood, and bone marrow aspirate. The filler is osteoconductive and bioactive, promoting bone healing by increasing genetic signaling for metabolism, osteoinduction, osteoconduction, and extracellular…
A federal judge in Texas ruled in favor of UnitedHealth Group, stating that the federal government improperly included a “disputed” phone call in their Medicare Advantage ratings. As a result, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will need to revise UnitedHealth’s 2025 ratings by removing the call center metric. UnitedHealth sued for an expedited…
Louise Holly emphasizes the importance of redesigning social media and digital platforms to create safer and healthier spaces for children. She highlights Australia’s proposed law to ban children under 16 from social media as a step towards protecting children from the dangers of the digital world. However, she points out that simply banning children from…
Researchers at BIDMC found in a national data analysis that over half of US adults, totaling 137 million, are eligible for semaglutide for weight loss, diabetes management, or preventing recurrent cardiovascular events. The study, published in JAMA Cardiology, emphasizes the need for improved access to this medication as its use is likely to increase in…
The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in modifying proteins for cellular function, particularly in T-cells that fight cancer. Research has shown that treating the Golgi with hydrogen sulfide helps T-cells withstand stress in the tumor microenvironment. Cells with more Golgi are better at killing cancer cells and controlling tumors, indicating the potential for using…
A Swedish cohort study examined the link between high exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and the risk of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. The study, published in Environmental International, found that high exposure to PFAS was associated with an increased risk of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. This suggests that PFAS may play a role in the…
A recent study revealed that rates of postpartum depression in the U.S. have doubled over the past decade, reaching 19% in 2021. The prevalence of postpartum depression was higher among individuals with a higher pre-pregnancy body mass index. Untreated postpartum depression can negatively impact maternal and child health, leading to reduced bonding, lower breastfeeding rates,…
The November 2020 Digital Edition of General Surgery News covers several important topics in the field of surgery. Some of the highlighted content includes advancements in robotic surgery, updates on the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on surgical practices, and discussions on enhancing patient safety through effective communication. Additionally, there are articles on new surgical techniques for…
The article discusses conspiracy theories throughout history, with a focus on the current theory that COVID-19 was released to force vaccination. This theory could potentially impact Operation Warp Speed, a partnership aimed at developing and distributing vaccines quickly in the United States. Despite numerous conspiracy theories, most do not impact national health. However, the spread…
Despite advancements in diabetes care, many underserved Americans face barriers to managing their condition due to lack of access to screenings, medications, and disease management. While new innovations have helped some, others are left behind in accessing effective therapies. This disparity is exacerbated by fragmented care, limited resources, and socioeconomic constraints. Closing the gap requires…
University Hospital Galway has performed the first surgery in Ireland using a new biological aortic heart valve. The procedure, led by consultant cardiothoracic surgeon Prof Alan Soo, involved replacing a diseased aortic valve with the Avalus Ultra valve. The surgery aims to improve the patient’s quality of life by addressing aortic valve disease, which can…
President-elect Donald Trump has made controversial health policy nominations, including vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for HHS secretary and TV host Mehmet Oz for CMS head. There are concerns about potential tensions within Trump’s administration and implications for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Panelists discuss Trump’s nontraditional picks and potential impacts on vaccine…
A study found that a novel retinaldehyde serum with firming peptides improved skin texture and signs of photoaging. The serum, called Retinal Night Advanced 0.1% Retinal Firming Treatment, was applied three nights a week for 8 weeks by women aged 35 to 60. Results showed a decrease in fine lines and hyperpigmentation, as well as…
President-elect Trump’s nominations for key health care positions suggest that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may be in trouble, while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) might be safe. The picks, including Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and CDC director Dave Weldon, have not outlined their plans. Weldon’s…
Daniel Sokol, a medical ethicist and barrister, discusses the temptations towards wrongdoing that medical students face. These temptations include cheating in exams, forging documents, and engaging in deceitful practices. Medical students often prioritize passing exams and qualifying as doctors, leading them to compromise their integrity. Sokol emphasizes that these actions violate the principles of medical…
The 10-year anniversary of the death of Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes is approaching, highlighting the importance of player safety in cricket. Hughes tragically passed away in 2014 after being hit by a bouncer in an unprotected area. Since then, there have been changes to helmet regulations and safety standards to prevent similar incidents. The use…
Researchers from Miguel Hernández University of Elche and CSIC have developed a protocol to analyze proteins in synaptic and extrasynaptic membranes in human postmortem brains, focusing on NMDA receptors in Alzheimer’s disease. They found decreased synaptic NMDA receptors and increased extrasynaptic receptors in Alzheimer’s patients, indicating toxicity-related activity. The protocol involves separating the membrane types…
A study on early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) in patients under 50 found that Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander individuals and non-Hispanic Black individuals had higher death rates than non-Hispanic White individuals. The study analyzed California Cancer Registry data for 22,834 individuals aged 18-49. Racial and ethnic disparities in survival were linked to neighborhood socioeconomic…
BPA, a common chemical found in plastics, has been linked to various health issues. New research suggests that BPF and BPS, common substitutes for BPA, may also pose health risks. Studies have shown that these compounds behave similarly to BPA, accumulating in biological membranes and disrupting endocrine function. Researchers recommend discontinuing the use of BPF…
Age and ASA status may predict survival after an anastomotic leak following colectomy for colorectal cancer, according to new research. The addition of frailty variables, including the ACS-NSQIP mFI-5, did not significantly improve predictive performance. Older age with ASA III classification were strongly associated with failure to rescue (FTR) in patients who experienced anastomotic leaks….
previously authorized for emergency use of remdesivir, as it is now specifically for hospitalized patients with COVID-19. It is recommended for those who require supplemental oxygen, mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The FDA has noted that the benefits of remdesivir for treating COVID-19 outweigh any potential risks, making it a valuable addition to the…
A participant in Neurogene’s clinical trial for Rett syndrome gene therapy has died after severe complications from a high dose. The FDA has allowed the study to continue with the low dose, NGN-401. This therapy delivers a functioning MECP2 gene to brain cells using an adeno-associated virus, which can trigger immune responses. The patient complication…
Health groups in Ireland are urging the next government to address key concerns related to cancer treatment access, patient trolley numbers, and alcohol harm reduction. The Irish Cancer Society is calling for equal access to new cancer treatments, as public patients currently do not have the same access as private patients. The Irish Nurses and…
KFF Health News covered various health-related topics in interviews and projects. Julie Rovner discussed President-elect Trump’s nomination of Mehmet Oz and the potential appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at CMS and HHS. Cara Anthony talked about the “Silence in Sikeston” project on St. Louis Public Radio. Noam N. Levey discussed medical debt on The…
At the Retina Society meeting, Dr. Steven Yeh discussed the use of Xipere for treating noninfectious uveitis-associated macular edema. A study of 750 patients treated with Xipere showed positive results, with only 14% experiencing an elevation in intraocular pressure. Patients who received Xipere did not require rescue therapy, with 88% receiving only a single dose….
Key figures in biotech, pharma, and medical devices were contacted by STAT reporters regarding President-elect Trump’s choice of Martin “Marty” Makary as commissioner of the FDA. Makary is part of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement and has been critical of some Covid-19 measures. Jared Holz, a health care strategist at Mizuho Securities, believes that…
The OECD has called for urgent action to reduce the burden of cancer and control rising health costs associated with the disease. A report covering 51 countries demonstrated the economic costs and societal impacts of cancer, emphasizing the need for government policies to address the issue. The lead author, Michele Cecchini, highlighted the unsustainable trajectory…
An Indian man was mistakenly declared dead by a doctor and sent to the mortuary to be burned on a funeral pyre after falling sick with an epileptic seizure. Just moments before the pyre was lit, the man, who had speaking and hearing difficulties, began moving and was discovered to be alive. He was rushed…
Lupus Therapeutics, the clinical affiliate of the Lupus Research Alliance, launched the IDEAL Initiative to fund pilot studies examining the impact of diet on lupus management. The initiative aims to fill the gap in well-controlled studies in this area and identify a dietary approach that benefits people with lupus. The research will focus on the…
Recovery from anti-NMDAR encephalitis can take 3 years or more with lingering memory, language, and emotional problems, affecting young adults primarily. Treatment involves immunotherapy, but despite improvement, many patients still experience long-term cognitive deficits and struggle to return to work. A study found that 34% of patients had continued impairment after 3 years, with memory…
Yoga mats are essential for enhancing practice by providing comfort, stability, and safety. A good mat aligns with your practice style and physical needs. Factors to consider when choosing a yoga mat include cushioning, grip, materials, portability, maintenance, and durability. Various options, such as extra-thick mats, non-slip surfaces, and eco-friendly materials are available to suit…
The advertising world has popularized slogans that stick in our minds, even when we forget the product. An editorial by Dr. Frederick L. Greene discusses the decision to change the USMLE Step 1 examination to a pass/fail system in 2022. While the move aims to shift focus from excessive studying to patient interaction, concerns arise…
A study presented at the 2020 ASCO meeting found that IV hydromorphone administered via patient-controlled analgesia provided quicker pain relief and higher patient satisfaction for those with severe cancer pain compared to other pain control methods. This randomized phase 3 study involved 214 patients at 17 sites in China, with a numerical rating scale score…
The healthcare industry is slowly transitioning from fee-for-service care models to value-based care, but providers and payers continue to struggle with contracting challenges and administrative burdens. Three healthcare experts discussed this issue at a recent panel event, emphasizing the need for clinicians to practice differently in a value-based care environment. Success in value-based care also…