Fragmented sleep, characterized by increased wakefulness and reduced sleep efficiency, is linked to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Researchers used actigraphy to assess sleep-wake rhythms in 35 MASLD patients and 16 healthy controls. Patients with MASLD showed more wakefulness at night, longer time spent awake after falling asleep, and decreased sleep efficiency compared to…
A recent study has shown that tea bags made from materials such as nylon-6, polypropylene, and cellulose can release more than 8 million nanoplastic particles into a drink during steeping. Tea bags made from polypropylene released the highest number of particles. Researchers warn that a combination of plastics and high heat can cause microplastics to…
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that the influenza vaccine is effective in preventing severe influenza illness in children. The study included 15,728 children aged 6 months to 17 years and showed that receiving at least one dose of the influenza vaccine resulted in a vaccine effectiveness of 55.7% for preventing emergency department…
A study found that eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is not associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer in US adults under 65 with private insurance. Researchers analyzed data from 5562 patients with esophageal cancer and found that only a small number had a prior diagnosis of EoE. Patients with esophageal cancer were more likely to…
A recent study published in JAMA Network highlights the benefits of aerobic exercise in reducing weight and body fat. The study, which involved nearly 7,000 adults with overweight or obesity, found that aerobic training for at least 150 minutes per week can lead to significant weight loss. The study also noted that those who exercised…
Cases of norovirus are surging in parts of the United States this winter, with 91 outbreaks reported during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the previous week. Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and fever. Outbreaks typically occur when infected individuals…
During the summer, indoor aquatic facilities are popular for children to cool off and burn energy. However, recent reports in the US show that these places can be unsanitary and lead to waterborne infections. Common culprits include cryptosporidium and shigella, causing diarrhea and other illnesses, especially in children. In the UK, similar concerns exist, with…
A study conducted in an urban academic medical center found that the implementation of pharmacy-driven doxycycline discharge kits significantly improved guideline-directed treatment and reduced time to definitive treatment for patients with chlamydia discharged from the emergency department. The study included 98 patients who received the kits and 72 patients who did not. Treatment rates increased…
Telehealth prescribing has revolutionized behavioral healthcare by increasing access to essential medications. This has led to a significant rise in the proportion of Medicaid beneficiaries receiving buprenorphine treatment through telehealth. While the Drug Enforcement Administration has extended virtual prescribing flexibilities until 2025, the lack of permanent regulations creates uncertainty. The continuity of care for patients…
Nutrient profiling systems use research-backed scores to rank the healthiness of food products. Systems like Nutri-Score in France and Health Star Rating in Australia provide clear front-of-package labels based on the nutrient content of foods. These systems assign scores based on positive points for healthy nutrients and negative points for unhealthy nutrients, helping consumers make…
Dr. Eric Topol, a leading cardiologist and researcher, recently shared his thoughts on generative AI in healthcare at a conference. While AI has shown promise in outperforming physicians in certain clinical tasks, such as diagnosis, there are concerns about how these results would hold up in real-world medical settings. Most studies on generative AI in…
Catherine Lai, MD, MPH, discusses a study presented at the ASH Annual Meeting on the use of a new class of menin inhibitors for mutated acute myeloid leukemia. Lai, from the University of Pennsylvania, suggests that combination therapy with these inhibitors could be a key factor in leukemia treatment going forward. She also mentions the…
Former President Jimmy Carter, who died at age 100, had a passion for global health, particularly neglected tropical diseases like river blindness, Guinea worm, and lymphatic filariasis. He founded the Carter Center to combat these diseases, working to eradicate Guinea worm and raise awareness about these often overlooked ailments. Carter’s influence as a former US…
The article discusses how to transform the daily grind to make life more interesting by shifting mindset to create psychological richness. Psychological richness involves cognitive engagement, distinct from happiness and meaning but important for a good life. Mindfulness 2.0 involves noticing without judging, curiosity involves exploring through questions, and creativity means trying something new. These…
Remodel Health, an ICHRA provider, has secured over $100 million in funding. Based in Indianapolis, the company offers employers and employees assistance with ICHRA plans, allowing employers to give tax-free money to employees for healthcare services. Remodel Health provides plan creation, administration, customer support, and more. The funding from Oak HC/FT and Hercules Capital will…
Catherine Lai, MD, MPH discusses a study presented at ASH Annual Meeting on time to treatment initiation in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. The study focused on patients receiving azacitidine and venetoclax, tracking whether time to treatment initiation affected overall survival. Lai recommended waiting for all molecular testing in clinically stable patients to be treated…
Extreme heat is becoming more common globally, posing health risks, especially for children. Children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses due to their physiology and behavior, such as a higher surface area to body mass ratio, leading to faster dehydration. A study in New South Wales showed an increase in hospital visits among children on…
Consumers freely share health information online but are wary of AI diagnosis using their data, according to a Pew Research Center survey. Risks and benefits of AI-powered analysis in healthcare are evolving, affecting consumer trust. Physicians are increasingly using large language models for clinical decision-making, raising concerns about patient data quality and privacy. Healthcare leaders…
John Saharek, CEO and president of ImprimisRx, discusses two new ophthalmic surgery products at the AAO meeting in this Healio Video Perspective. Repackaged Vigamox is an injectable for use during surgery, and Povicaine is an antiseptic and anesthetic to be used before the procedure. Both products offer innovative solutions for ophthalmic procedures. Source link
Tescha Hawley discovered that hospital bills from her son’s birth were sent to debt collectors, affecting her credit score. As a Native American living on a reservation, she utilized the Purchased/Referred Care program, which covers services not available at Indian Health Service facilities. However, patients are still billed despite federal law stating they shouldn’t be…
In this episode of MedCity FemFwd, Kathryn Schubert, president and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research, discusses the trends in women’s health that shaped 2024 and what to expect in 2025. The past year was significant for advances in women’s health, but there are still challenges ahead. For more information on this topic,…
In a video by Catherine Lai, MD, MPH at the ASH Annual Meeting, a study on FLT-3 inhibitors in leukemia patients with FLT-3 mutations was discussed. The study compared the effectiveness of midostaurin, quizartinib, and gilteritinib in treating these patients. Lai highlighted that while midostaurin and quizartinib are approved in the newly diagnosed setting, gilteritinib…
Advancements in pancreatic cancer screening have led to research-based guidelines for screening high-risk individuals, including those with a family history or genetic mutations. Screening involves MRI and endoscopic ultrasound tests conducted annually to detect the disease at an early stage. Genetic testing and AI are being used to improve risk assessment and screening accuracy. Collaborative…
The sandwich generation in the U.S. is facing serious challenges as caregivers for both their children and aging parents. This dual role has resulted in emotional distress, financial strain, and neglected self-care for many individuals. Policies advocating for more resources and support for caregivers have been proposed from both political parties. Health education and literacy…
Healio highlights various surgical techniques in orthopedics published in Orthopedics Today in 2024. These techniques include the complete removal of dorsal wrist ganglion cysts through open excision, the use of remplissage to augment arthroscopic labral repairs for anterior shoulder instability, ankle distraction arthroplasty as a regenerative solution for osteoarthritis, all-epiphyseal over-the-top ACL reconstruction in pediatric…
A review published in The Lancet Psychiatry reveals that globally, there are an estimated 61.8 million individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The prevalence is 788.3 per 100,000 people, with males having a higher prevalence than females. Autism spectrum disorder accounts for 11.5 million disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), with rates varying by region and age. The condition…
The article discusses the top fungal infection stories of the year, highlighting the spread of cat-transmitted sporotrichosis to the U.S. and the first reported case of a sexually transmitted fungal infection in the country. It emphasizes the importance of awareness and vigilance in diagnosing and treating fungal infections, mentioning the need for confirming diagnoses before…
Tryngolza (olezarsen) has been FDA-approved as an adjunct to diet for reducing triglycerides in adults with familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS), a condition that can lead to life-threatening acute pancreatitis. It significantly reduces triglyceride levels and the risk of acute pancreatitis when combined with a low-fat diet. The approval was based on a successful phase 3…
Alcon Laboratories has issued a voluntary recall of its Systane Lubricant Eye Drops Ultra PF after discovering fungal contamination in one lot. The contamination was discovered following a consumer complaint, and while no adverse events have been reported, Alcon has initiated the recall out of caution. Consumers are advised to stop using the product and…
President Joe Biden signed the HEARTS Act, aiming to give schools resources for handling heart health emergencies. The act includes CPR training, AED purchases, and cardiac emergency response plans. Supported by Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who suffered cardiac arrest during a football game, the act aims to improve survival rates for victims. Cardiac arrest…
Enhanced brain imaging techniques are helping to detect epileptogenic lesions more rapidly, leading to improved surgical outcomes for epilepsy patients. The use of detailed imaging options during presurgical consultation, such as 3D imaging and 7T MRI, can help identify focal lesions that traditional MRI may miss. Functional imaging is also beneficial for cases where initial…
A study found that children and adolescents with multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibit various symptoms and diagnoses within five years before their diagnosis. The study included 1,091 pediatric MS patients and compared them to controls without MS or with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Children with MS were more likely to have certain health issues such as obesity,…
In 2024, there were updates to clinical guidance covering various medical topics, including progress on COVID-19 prevention, treatment, and ART for HIV. The CDC recommended counseling specific patients on the use of doxycycline for post-exposure prophylaxis, and issued baseline guidelines for syphilis testing due to spikes in syphilis and congenital syphilis cases. The WikiGuidelines group…
The CDC reported that the bird flu virus likely mutated in a Louisiana patient. The mutations may allow the virus to better bind to receptors in the airways of humans, raising concerns but not alarm. The virus has caused sporadic mild illnesses in the U.S., mostly in farm workers. The Louisiana patient, hospitalized in critical…
In a presentation at Eyecelerator@AAO, Michael Coote discussed positive safety and efficacy data for PA5108, an ocular implant for glaucoma treatment. The phase 2 clinical trial showed statistically significant improvements in intraocular pressure (IOP) equivalent to topical latanoprost over 48 weeks. Coote, a principal investigator for PolyActiva, stated that PA5108 has met its requirements and…
Psychedelic substances such as esketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA are being reintroduced as potential therapies for severe psychiatric disorders. While some countries have approved esketamine-based antidepressants and substances like MDMA and psilocybin for certain conditions, the evidence supporting these treatments is weak. The unique effects of psychedelics pose challenges in standard double-blind clinical trials, potentially skewing…
Throughout 2024, data on STDs showed mixed results, with some areas seeing slower rates of infection and even disease elimination, while others showed hospitals failing to follow CDC guidance. Twelve stories were compiled, highlighting the ongoing battle to end STDs in different patient populations. The latest CDC data showed high rates of STDs, but progress…
Despite bans or deep restrictions in many Republican-controlled states, abortions have become slightly more common. The legal and political fights over the future of abortions are ongoing, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Abortion pills have become a significant part of the equation, with telehealth prescriptions increasing. Travel for abortions…
A study published in Age and Ageing found that increased intake of ultraprocessed foods is linked to accelerated biological aging. Researchers discovered that for every 10% increase in ultraprocessed food consumption, biological age increased by 2.4 months. The study included 16,055 participants aged 20 to 79 years and found that those with higher consumption of…
The article discusses the impact of screen time on young people during the holidays, highlighting concerns about social media, online gaming, mental health, and well-being. It emphasizes the need for balance and responsible use of technology, acknowledging both the negative effects and positive aspects of online activities. The importance of regulating dangerous content, promoting access…
A study focuses on Setd2, a crucial enzyme in mouse embryonic development, particularly in histone modification H3K36me3. The research introduces a mouse model with a patient-derived Setd2 mutation, emphasizing the enzyme’s catalytic role and non-catalytic functions during development. The model exhibits similar defects to a complete knockout model, highlighting Setd2’s importance. RNA sequencing analysis reveals…
The FDA has approved tirzepatide (Zepbound, Eli Lilly) for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. This injectable drug is the first-ever treatment for OSA, and is used in combination with diet and exercise. The drug was initially approved for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. Clinical trials showed significant improvement…
Healio’s top FDA articles in ophthalmology for 2024 included updates on the approval of various treatments. This included the FDA clearing the Faros anterior cataract surgery system, approving the Vabysmo prefilled syringe for retinal diseases, and approving aflibercept biosimilars Yesafili and Opuviz. Additionally, the FDA granted rare pediatric disease and fast track designations to gildeuretinol,…
The biotech industry is expected to face surprises and challenges in the new year, including the potential impact of Donald Trump’s second term and financial strain on startups due to economic projections. Despite this, trends like looking outside the U.S. for innovation and the growth of certain drugs for various conditions are expected to persist….
A report commissioned by the Ruderman Family Foundation found that police and firefighters are at higher risk of depression, PTSD, and suicide compared to the general population. At least 33 first responders in Georgia have died by suicide since 2018. The Hale Foundation attempted to establish Valor Station to help first responders struggling with PTSD…
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin, along with international partners, conducted a study published in Nature Aging that explores the impact of societal inequality on the brain. The research revealed a direct link between structural inequality measured by a country-level index (GINI) and changes in brain structure and connectivity associated with aging and dementia. Higher inequality…
Researchers have found a link between the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and the immune response associated with CD83 antibody in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. The study showed CD83-positive microglia in the brain are associated with HCMV in the gut, increased IgG4 levels, and HCMV in the brain and vagus nerve. Antiviral therapy may help prevent dementia…
In 2024, Healio Dermatology’s expert Q&A sessions covered a range of topics, including the CMS 2025 physician fee schedule, celebrity news, and more. The top Q&A sessions included discussions on the impact of cuts to the physician fee schedule, Kim Kardashian’s use of tanning beds for psoriasis, the benefits of permanent makeup for dermatological diseases,…
In 2025, people with disabilities face significant challenges. Donald Trump’s second term includes potential cuts to Medicaid and the appointment of a vaccine critic to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. The use of artificial intelligence in healthcare could worsen disparities for marginalized communities. Medicaid automation systems have led to errors disenrolling eligible…
Australia has a high rate of skin cancer, with nearly 19,000 invasive melanoma diagnoses each year. While early detection of melanoma is crucial, there is no national screening program in Australia. Screening everyone for skin cancer is complex due to concerns about overdiagnosis, cost-effectiveness, and potential harms of unnecessary treatments. Targeting high-risk groups has shown…