Researchers have found that a specific bacteria species in the gut, Akkermansia muciniphila, can strip sugar from antibodies and make them unrecognizable to the immune system. This process may contribute to the development of IgA nephropathy, an autoimmune kidney disease. The bacteria alters the antibodies in a way that leads to kidney inflammation and potential…
Healthcare organizations are urging the government to reinstate funding for evidence-based mental health and wellbeing services for NHS and social care staff. A coalition of 17 organizations, including medical royal colleges and the BMA, have written to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Victoria Atkins, demanding the restoration of ringfenced funding for…
Researchers used Google Street View to study the built environment and its impact on coronary artery disease. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, revealed that features visible in these images can predict 63% of the variation in the risk of cardiovascular disease between different areas. Factors like green spaces and walkable roads were…
A study published in Science Advances has found that combining low doses of DNMT and EZH2 inhibitors can be more effective in treating colorectal cancers and other solid tumors than either drug alone. The research, led by Van Andel Institute scientists, showed that the two medications work together to sensitize cancer cells to treatment. This…
Losing your hearing can be concerning, but many forms of hearing loss are treatable. Earwax buildup can cause hearing issues, but can often be treated at home using oil drops or over-the-counter products. Ear infections and sudden hearing loss can also be treated with medications or medical procedures. Gradual hearing loss due to aging or…
Blood-based screening for colorectal cancer (CRC), known as a “liquid biopsy,” may be used for patients who skip traditional screening tests, but cannot replace colonoscopy as the gold standard due to higher rates of false positives and false negatives. Two modeling studies and expert consensus suggest that while blood tests may be more convenient, they…
A study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes found that migraines have a significant association with the incidence of stroke in young adults, comparable to established risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and smoking. The study, based on data from over 2,600 adults aged 18 to 55 who had strokes, found that nontraditional…
A rare and serious complication, known as a stuck hemodialysis catheter, occurred in a patient after a kidney transplantation. This issue can be difficult to resolve and may require immediate medical attention. By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies for analytics and advertising purposes. For more information on how…
FOLX Health, a digital health provider for the LGBTQIA+ community, has partnered with Crisis Text Line to offer 24/7 text-based mental health support to its members. This partnership allows FOLX members to access crisis counselors by texting a dedicated number. The initiative was driven by the firsthand experience of John Moore, FOLX Health’s VP of…
The Workplace Relations Commission is mediating a dispute between the HSE and the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation over the health service recruitment freeze. A conciliation conference will be held to address concerns about patient and staff safety due to the freeze. The INMO highlighted the high number of patients waiting for beds and on…
A study in Heart Rhythm O2 found that using an adherent skin barrier drape during cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) procedures led to a significant decrease in hospitalization for CIED infections. The study analyzed data from 14,225 procedures over a 13-year period, with an infection rate of 0.73%. Patients with adherent skin barrier use were…
A recent study published in Nature Communications explores the genetic factors that contribute to male pattern baldness. Researchers analyzed the DNA of over 70,000 British men to identify genes associated with hair loss. They discovered five genes, including EDA2R, WNT10A, HEPH, CEPT1, and EIF3F, that were linked to hair growth and follicle health. These genes…
AI-enabled virtual healthcare clinic Curai Health has partnered with Tufts Medicine to expand access to virtual care in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Curai Health offers personalized primary care, urgent care, referral management, and more through its AI-powered software. Patients can access virtual care through the MyTuftsMed patient portal app, powered by Curai, or chat with…
Insurers are increasingly denying coverage for costly air-ambulance rides for critically ill patients, citing lack of medical necessity. The No Surprises Act, enacted in 2022, is partly blamed for this trend. In one case, a mother was left with a $97,000 bill for an air-ambulance ride for her 3-month-old baby. Insurers and providers can haggle…
A study conducted by Alexander J. Acuña, MD, and colleagues from Rush University Medical Center found that elevated BMI did not increase the risks of dislocation or revision after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The study included 8,931 patients who underwent elective primary THA for osteoarthritis between 2010 and 2022. Patients with higher BMI did not…
Researchers have been studying multiple sclerosis (MS) in hopes of identifying subgroups of the disease to improve treatment outcomes. A new study from Germany identified three MS subtypes based on immune markers in patients’ blood, each with different disease progression. The study confirmed existing findings and also discovered new immunological activation patterns unique to each…
Paul Wallace, an emeritus professor of primary healthcare at UCL, believed that GPs were experts in normality and less likely to over-investigate than hospital specialists. Born to Kindertransport children who fled Nazi persecution, Wallace never felt fully at home in the UK despite his academic success. He identified as an internationalist and had a passion…
A Rutgers Health study found that African American and Black immigrant men prioritize their health and have the skills for proactive gastrointestinal (GI) health management. Led by Daina Potter, the study emphasizes the strengths and resilience of this population in dealing with GI conditions. The research approach focused on the positive aspects of health-seeking behaviors…
A recent study published in BMJ Open examined the relationship between physical activity and sleep outcomes in adults over a 10-year period. The study found that maintaining adequate physical activity levels was associated with lower incidence of short or long sleep durations, reduced risk of insomnia symptoms, and achieving recommended hours of sleep. While physical…
Families face forces that could pull them apart, but communication is key to maintaining connection and support. Good family communication is important for emotional, esteem, network, informational, and tangible support. Different forms of communication, such as emails or texts, can be misunderstood, but something is better than nothing. Understanding and asking for communication, rather than…
The investigational bispecific T-cell engager tarlatamab showed durable responses in patients with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), particularly at lower doses, with encouraging survival outcomes. The therapy targeted cancer cells expressing DLL3 and demonstrated clinical activity in pretreated patients. Data from phase 1 and phase 2 trials showed overall response rates, progression-free survival, and overall survival….
Regular physical activity, specifically 2-3 times a week, can reduce the risk of insomnia and help achieve the recommended 6-9 hours of sleep per night. Factors such as gender, age, weight, and overall health play a role in this association. The study found that participants who consistently exercised were less likely to have difficulty falling…
A study found that robot-assisted prostatectomy led to better recovery of continence and erectile function after surgery. This method was found to be more effective compared to traditional prostatectomy. The study highlights the benefits of using robotic assistance in this procedure. By continuing to use the site, you agree to the use of cookies for…
DocuSign and Velatura have partnered to streamline the patient consent form capture process for protected health information (PHI) in a pilot project. This aims to remove administrative burdens for healthcare providers, allowing more time for clinical consultations and decision-making. The partnership modernizes and facilitates the efficient completion of consent forms, providing patients with convenience and…
World Kidney Day on March 14, 2024, highlights the rising global prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) as a cause of death. CKD, characterized by kidney abnormalities lasting three months or more, leads to health complications such as protein or blood in urine, decreased kidney function, and electrolyte imbalances. CKD’s impact on patients includes symptom…
A study found that most adolescents aged 13 to 18 years reported using substances to feel calm, have fun, or relieve anxiety and depression. 50% used substances alone. Motivations for use included feeling relaxed, having fun, improving sleep, and coping with stress. Marijuana was the most frequently used substance, followed by alcohol, prescription medication, and…
GE HealthCare’s partner Ionic Health has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its nCommand Lite, allowing diagnostic imaging centers to operate MRI, CT, and PET scans remotely with real-time scanning and guidance. The technology aims to increase access to expert technologists for complex care. GE HealthCare will distribute the nCommand Lite solution in the US as…
Christian Espinoza, director de operaciones de Tarzana Treatment Centers en California, está utilizando un algoritmo de inteligencia artificial para realizar exámenes de la vista sin la presencia de un médico. Este sistema detecta retinopatía diabética, una enfermedad que puede causar ceguera en personas con diabetes. La tecnología de IA en la atención médica está ganando…
Consumption of uncooked or undercooked morel mushrooms led to a gastrointestinal illness outbreak in spring 2023, resulting in two deaths. The outbreak occurred after individuals ate a special sushi roll containing morel mushrooms at a restaurant in Bozeman, Montana. A total of 51 people reported gastrointestinal symptoms after dining at the restaurant, with most experiencing…
President Biden’s health report raised questions about cognitive assessments, sparking a debate on mental fitness. Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by memory loss and mood changes, lacks a cure but has new drugs targeting brain pathology. Access to these drugs is crucial, yet many face challenges due to a shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs) who play…
Portraits of NHS staff in Stockport capturing their experiences working through the pandemic have been created by local artists. The portraits include both clinical and non-clinical staff who worked at Stepping Hill Hospital and in community services run by Stockport NHS Foundation Trust. This project highlights the dedication and hard work of the healthcare workers…
A study published in Nature Communications examined the genetic and modifiable factors affecting vulnerable brain regions in over 40,000 UK Biobank participants over 45 years old. Researchers identified a network of brain regions that degenerate earlier and are susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease. They studied 161 risk factors for dementia and categorized them into 15 groups,…
A study published in the journal Vaccine investigated whether the MMR vaccine given to children under two years old after three doses of the DTaP vaccine reduced antibiotic treatments. The study was conducted in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden and found an 11% overall reduction in antibiotic use with the MMR vaccine. Results varied by…
As toddlers grow and become more active, their nutritional needs change, even though their growth rate slows down. Toddlers need between 1,000 and 1,400 calories a day and should consume a variety of foods from each food group. Dairy products are important for bone health, and milk is particularly beneficial for providing calcium and vitamin…
Starting an exercise regimen with others can be a powerful fitness motivator, particularly for older adults. Research shows that talking with peers about exercise can help increase and sustain physical activity levels better than self-focused strategies. This study highlights the importance of interpersonal strategies in promoting exercise among older adults, who often struggle to meet…
Eating food deep-fried in oil can increase calories and pose health risks. Research shows that reusing frying oil, a common practice, can raise the risk of neurodegeneration and brain damage. A study on rats found that diets with reheated cooking oils led to increased neurodegeneration. The rats consuming reheated oils had liver inflammation, colon damage,…
The Delhi Government has directed medical colleges to ensure the safety of female medical students by installing CCTV cameras to record viva exams. This decision aims to prevent any incidents of harassment or misconduct during examinations. By recording the exams, authorities can better monitor the process and take action if any issues arise. The use…
Ekso Bionics has been developing products for people with neuromuscular conditions to walk for about 20 years. The company has FDA approved products and is striving for financial success. In the final episode of Season 1, CEO Scott Davis discusses the history of Ekso Bionics and the innovative devices they have created to help individuals…
A General Practitioner position is available in Cork City under the General Medical Services Scheme, with a patient panel of approximately 502. The scheme provides medical care for medical card patients. Participating doctors work under a formal contract for service with the Health Service Executive. Enquiries can be made to Norah Heffernan, Primary Care Unit…
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that cardiorespiratory fitness is lower in children with type 2 diabetes compared to those without diabetes. Researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 55 studies, which showed that children with type 2 diabetes had lower cardiorespiratory fitness levels compared to those without diabetes. Children with type…
Novosound, a Scottish sensor technology startup, has secured a patent for its ultrasound system, the Slanj digital platform, aimed at medical and wearables markets. The system uses gel-free, high-resolution sensors in a wearable, Wi-Fi-enabled device. The patent grants Novosound exclusive rights to sell its technology in the US and UK. The company, founded in 2018,…
Fire Capt. Jesse Blaire in Ocala, Florida, is leading an effort to address the opioid crisis by bringing addiction medication to those in need, meeting them where they are, whether it’s on the street or at their homes. Blaire’s team, part of the Coordinated Opioid Recovery Network, provides free services to connect individuals with needed…
A study showed that the 2016 CDC guidelines for prescribing opioids for chronic pain inadvertently led to a decrease in opioid prescriptions for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Researchers found that opioid dispensing rates and dosages decreased among SCD patients following the release of the guidelines. This population, predominantly African American, experienced a rise…
Steward Health Care, facing financial issues at its Massachusetts hospitals, is selling its nationwide physician network to UnitedHealth’s Optum Care unit. The sale of Stewardship Health is part of a strategy to strengthen the company’s system of 33 hospitals after falling behind in payments. Optum subsidiary Collaborative Care Holdings filed notice with the state Health…
David Lindsay Maxwell, born in Scotland, was a responsible eldest son after his father’s death at a young age. He excelled academically and athletically, becoming Captain of Boats at Eton College and winning national rowing championships at Cambridge. He studied natural sciences and social and political sciences, showing a strong commitment to his education. Throughout…
Regular exercise 2-3 times a week is associated with a lower risk of insomnia and better sleep duration, according to a 10-year study. The research, including 4,399 middle-aged adults from nine European countries, found that persistently active individuals were less likely to have insomnia symptoms, more likely to have normal sleep duration, and less likely…
A new analysis of over 13,000 people found changes in blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of stroke and dementia in those with heart conditions, regardless of stroke history. The research, the most comprehensive to date, revealed common hidden brain changes in individuals with heart conditions. Brain imaging is essential for detecting these…
LaShawn Wiltz struggled with chronic sleep-maintenance insomnia, but after hearing about the “sleepy girl mocktail” on TikTok made with magnesium glycinate, she decided to try it to improve her sleep quality. Magnesium helps relax muscles and calm the nervous system, potentially aiding in better sleep. While more research is needed on the specific effects of…
Two classes of chemicals found in common household products could hinder the development of oligodendrocytes, crucial brain cells, according to a study led by Paul Tesar, PhD. Quaternary ammonium compounds and organophosphate flame retardants were found to have harmful effects on non-nerve cells in the brain. Research is ongoing but experts suggest more investigation is…
Cigarette smoking, including prenatal exposure, has been identified as a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. Researchers studied almost half a million adults and found that early-life tobacco exposure significantly increases the risk of developing diabetes, particularly for those with a genetic predisposition. Prenatal exposure to tobacco increases the risk by 22%, while starting smoking…