The EPA has issued strict rules limiting six PFASs in drinking water in the US due to their link to health problems. Public water systems must now monitor and reduce PFAS levels, notifying the public if limits are exceeded. This move is part of President Biden’s plan to address environmental concerns and protect public health….
Researchers have developed an AI program that can identify signs of childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (CB-PTSD) by analyzing short narratives from patients who have given birth. The program successfully identified a large number of participants likely to have CB-PTSD, indicating the potential for rapid and cost-effective screening for the disorder. Untreated CB-PTSD can have negative…
Metrion Biosciences Limited and Enamine Ltd have partnered to enhance Metrion’s High Throughput Screening (HTS) services with access to Enamine’s compound libraries. Enamine’s collection is the largest globally, offering both CNS and ion channel-focused target libraries. These libraries can be split into screening sets for increased flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in hit expansion and SAR…
Ryan Wong, a human resources manager, struggled with sleep until he prioritized improving his nighttime routine, leading to better rest. Penn State University research identified four “sleep types,” linking poor sleep to chronic conditions like diabetes and depression. Other studies found sleep issues in middle age can contribute to cognitive decline and brain health problems…
A study found that high-dose valproate is associated with weight gain in psychiatric patients, with the greatest gain reported in those taking ≥ 1300 mg/d. The study included 215 patients with various psychiatric diagnoses. Each 500-mg increase in valproate dose was associated with a weight increase of 0.52% per month over a year. Weight gain…
Regular exercise is crucial for good health, and recent research suggests that for individuals struggling with obesity, evening workouts may offer the most benefits in reducing the risk of heart disease and premature death. A study by the University of Sydney found that those who did the majority of their aerobic moderate to vigorous physical…
Bombay High Court has ordered the government to provide medical assistance to a pregnant minor at JJ Hospital. The court’s directive aims to ensure the well-being and care of the pregnant minor during her time at the hospital. This decision underscores the importance of providing necessary medical support and services to pregnant minors, highlighting the…
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is acquiring Alpine Immune Sciences for $4.9 billion, with a focus on a Phase 3-ready drug for chronic kidney disease. Alpine’s lead program is a fusion protein called povetacicept, which has shown promising results in reducing proteinuria and hematuria in patients with IgA nephropathy. The drug targets B cell activating factor (BAFF) and…
The Department of Health aims to improve health and wellbeing in Ireland by providing the right care at the right time and place. The Chief Medical Officer offers expert advice on health and wellbeing, bioethics, and health policy development. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer supports these functions and must have registration on the Specialist Register…
A digital media campaign in New York aimed to engage young individuals with early psychosis online, but did not result in significant improvements in treatment initiation or duration of untreated psychosis. The campaign targeted FEP programs and individuals with suspected CHR or psychotic disorders, with 371 individuals proceeding to remote clinical assessment. Despite efforts, there…
Google Cloud and Bayer are collaborating to develop AI applications to reduce radiologist burnout and improve diagnoses. Bayer will use Google Cloud’s technology, including generative AI tools, Vertex AI, BigQuery, Healthcare API, and Chronicle to expand its innovation platform. The aim is to help organizations create scalable and compliant AI-enabled software for medical imaging while…
En Denver, la pediatra Patricia Braun y su equipo están integrando la salud dental en las visitas médicas de niños y otros pacientes que no tienen acceso a dentistas. Con financiamiento federal y privado, están formando a proveedores de atención primaria en salud bucodental en varios estados. A pesar de las barreras socioeconómicas y la…
ChatGPT, a free AI system, has shown potential in healthcare, including providing accurate information on vaccines and STIs. Two studies presented at the ESCMID Global Congress found that ChatGPT could help reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase STI awareness. The system accurately responded to questions about vaccines and sexual health, performing at the level of professional…
The U.S. is currently facing 323 ongoing drug shortages, the highest number since tracking began in 2001. These shortages are concerning due to the potential harm to patients. Basic and life-saving medicines like oxytocin, Rho(D) immune globulin, chemotherapy, pain/sedation medications, and ADHD pills are in short supply. The reasons for these shortages are varied and…
This study was a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial conducted in five hospitals in China to assess the effects of low dose esketamine on postpartum depression. Pregnant individuals with Edinburgh postnatal depression scale scores of ≥10 were enrolled and administered either esketamine or a placebo. The primary endpoint was the prevalence of major depressive…
A study presented at the Words Matter conference, hosted by UCL, WHO, and Words Matter, revealed that childhood verbal abuse by adults costs society an estimated $300 billion globally each year. This abuse consists of behaviors like belittling and shouting, and leads to mental distress, self-harm, and substance abuse in children. The economic burden of…
Infection with the influenza virus can lead to life-threatening lung injury due to inflammation. Scientists have developed a new drug, UH15-38, that can prevent flu-induced lung damage by balancing inflammation and the immune response. In mouse models, the drug increased survival and reduced symptoms of influenza. It protected against lethal influenza doses, even when administered…
Parents understand that regular house cleaning helps prevent illnesses in children. Older children can start helping with chores, but parents should be honest and use logic rather than commands. Turning chores into a game can motivate younger children, but parents should avoid pitting siblings against each other. Rewards for helping with chores should be promised…
Plozasiran, an investigational drug, significantly reduced triglyceride levels in patients at risk for pancreatitis. In the phase 2 SHASTA-2 study, most patients saw their levels fall below the pancreatitis risk threshold after receiving plozasiran injections. The drug’s safety profile was generally favorable, but it did lead to increased LDL cholesterol and a temporary decline in…
Dr. Kieran Slevin of North American Pain and Spine is a pain management specialist with a focus on the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. AI is being increasingly used in pain detection and management, offering hope for more effective non-pharmacological methods of treatment. Dr. Slevin believes AI therapy could provide easier access to…
A recent study has found that treprostinil is effective in treating pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Treprostinil is a medication that helps to relax and dilate blood vessels in the lungs, reducing the pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This study highlights the importance of this treatment option for children with this serious condition. More…
A new report by J.D. Power shows that commercial health plans and Medicare Advantage plans are lacking in providing a positive digital experience for members. The study, conducted with Corporate Insight, analyzed digital interactions of 5,590 members. The report found that 32% of health insurance sites and apps did not meet basic levels of functionality….
The Irish Cancer Society has expressed concern that cancer outcomes in Ireland may have stagnated or worsened due to inadequate Government funding for the National Cancer Strategy. Despite some progress in improving cancer survival rates over the past two decades, current funding falls short of what is needed to fulfill commitments in areas such as…
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that clinical trials of psychological interventions for depression often do not assess suicidality, despite the known association between depression and suicide risk. Most trials did not include assessments for suicide, with only a small number reporting on suicidal thoughts and behaviors as adverse events….
Cedars-Sinai is expanding its AI-powered virtual healthcare platform, Cedars-Sinai Connect, to include a Spanish version for parents of children aged 3 to 17 and Spanish-speaking adults. This allows for 24/7 on-demand access to healthcare providers for urgent issues like colds and flu. The platform also offers scheduled visits during weekdays and weekends, with a child’s…
In this episode of “An Arm and a Leg,” host Dan Weissmann explores the dark side of the American health care system, focusing on Medicare Advantage plans using an algorithm owned by UnitedHealth Group to make decisions about patient care. This algorithm has caused people to be prematurely discharged from nursing homes, leading to adverse…
Enrollment in medical cannabis programs increased by 33% from 2020 to 2022, but decreased in states where nonmedical adult use was legalized. The prevalence of medical cannabis use among U.S. citizens has increased significantly in the past decade. A study found that patient enrollment dropped dramatically in some states following the legalization of nonmedical adult-use…
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is acquiring Alpine Immune Sciences for $4.9 billion, marking its largest acquisition to date. The deal includes a promising drug called povetacicept, which is designed to treat IgA nephropathy (IgAN), a kidney autoimmune disorder affecting 130,000 people in the U.S. The drug will enter Phase 3 clinical development later this year. This acquisition…
Scarlett McNally, a professor and consultant orthopaedic surgeon, shares how small changes can lead to improved quality of life. By doing Dry January and using an alarm clock instead of relying on her phone, she has been able to break habits and make better choices for her health. She emphasizes the importance of changing behaviors…
The study focused on STON2 variations related to synaptic dysfunction and schizophrenia-like behaviors. The C-C (307Pro-851Ala) haplotype of STON2 was found to increase susceptibility to schizophrenia in the Chinese Han population. This variation leads to deficits in synaptic transmission, short-term plasticity, and schizophrenia-like behaviors in mice. Pharmacogenomic data showed that patients with this haplotype responded…
Two systematic reviews found that evidence on the use of puberty blockers and hormones for children and young people with gender-related distress is inadequate, leading to uncertainty about their effectiveness and impact on health. The studies showed limited quality and inconsistent evidence on key outcomes. Clinical guidelines are often not evidence-based, and the need for…
S.A.R.A.H. is an interactive artificial intelligence resource developed by the World Health Organization to provide information on health topics such as eating right, stress management, smoking cessation, mental health, and various diseases. S.A.R.A.H. is designed to be culturally sensitive and free of bias, speaking eight languages and providing personalized responses. The technology, powered by Open…
A new liquid biopsy assay combining a microRNA signature and a pancreatic cancer biomarker has shown 97% accuracy in detecting stage I/II pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Developed by Ajay Goel and colleagues, the test was tested in Japan, China, South Korea, and the US, with promising results. Adding the biomarker carbohydrate antigen 19-9 increased accuracy to…
Researchers have found a simple technique to help people struggling with anger management. By writing down their feelings on a piece of paper and then discarding it, individuals can effectively reduce their anger. This method was proven to be highly effective in a study published in the journal Scientific Reports. Participants who wrote about a…
A study called REDUCE-AMI found that using beta-blockers after a heart attack with preserved ejection fraction does not offer any benefits. This trial suggests that continuing to use beta-blockers in this specific situation may not be necessary. The study emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine and tailoring treatment plans to individual patients. The results of…
As hospitals face increasing cyberattacks, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in healthcare must navigate challenges including keeping up with technological advancements, making impactful IT investments, and championing cybersecurity practices across the organization. Balancing innovation with security is crucial, as CISOs work to streamline processes, demonstrate the value of IT investments, and educate staff on security…
Simon Harris has appointed Colm Burke as the Minister of State for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy. Burke, a Cork North Central TD and former Fine Gael health spokesperson, replaces Hildegarde Naughton in the role. Naughton was given a new position in special education and inclusion as part of a reshuffle. Burke…
The National Institutes of Health is increasing funding for research on TMJ disorders, which affect millions of Americans, mostly women. Despite its prevalence, TMJ remains under-researched and ineffective treatments are common. The NIH recently doubled annual funding for TMJ research and funded a new collaborative effort in 2023. The lack of proven treatments for TMJ…
Researchers presented results at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting showing that an artificial intelligence-driven algorithm using a liquid biopsy assay can differentiate women with ovarian cancer from healthy patients. The study found sensitivity rates ranging from 69% to 100% for different stages of ovarian cancer. The algorithm also had high specificity for…
In the pharmaceutical industry, Harrow justifies a 486% price increase for an injectable eye treatment due to the need for investment in supply restoration and perceived underpricing. Novartis plans to cut up to 680 jobs in product development, with 440 in Switzerland and up to 240 in the U.S., separate from a larger restructuring program….
A recent survey by the Royal College of Anaesthetists found that most anaesthetists have a negative view of anaesthesia associates (AAs). Consultants who regularly work with AAs have a more positive view, while those in training who have never worked with AAs hold the most negative opinions. The survey, conducted by Research by Design, had…
A study by researchers at Nagoya University in Japan reveals that aldehydes are metabolic byproducts linked to premature aging, with implications for aging diseases and potential ways to combat aging by controlling exposure to aldehyde-inducing substances like alcohol, pollution, and smoke. Aldehydes damage DNA and proteins by forming DNA-protein crosslinks, leading to cellular processes malfunctioning…
Rep. Brad Wenstrup urged federal lawmakers to continue telehealth payment changes past year-end deadline, highlighting benefits of virtual care. Congress faces decision on allowing telehealth services to remain accessible, impacting Medicare and private insurance plans. Telehealth surged during the pandemic, with Medicare and Medicaid enrollees using it the most. Lawmakers and policymakers are considering temporary…
Dr. John Whyte, WebMD’s chief medical officer, addresses access to health care issues for older adults, including cost, transportation, and quality of care. He emphasizes the importance of technology, such as sensors, trackers, and virtual reality tools, in managing health conditions. COVID-19 has shifted doctor-patient interactions towards virtual visits, highlighting the need for persistence when…
Zoom dysmorphia is a negative perception of one’s body image exacerbated by frequent video calls, causing anxiety, self-esteem issues, and a desire for cosmetic procedures. Dr. George Kroumpouzos and colleagues proposed a screening tool to identify zoom dysmorphia, as no diagnostic criteria exist. The tool includes open-ended questions and specific inquiries related to concerns about…
A recent study suggests that replacing red meat with forage fish in diets could prevent 750,000 deaths annually by 2050. Forage fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, have the potential to reduce the prevalence of diet-related diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The recommended dietary shift could be particularly beneficial…
AIIMS INI CET July 2024 is an entrance exam for admission to postgraduate medical courses. The eligibility criteria, schedule, and other details are important for candidates to know. The exam is scheduled for July 2024 and candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria to apply. By continuing to use the site, users agree to the use…
Healthcare leaders worldwide are discussing the responsible integration of AI into clinical care, lacking a shared framework to govern its development and deployment. Collaboration among healthcare organizations is essential to establish guidelines for ethical AI use. Start with low-risk, high-reward use cases for generative AI models, such as nurse handoffs or medical research search tools….
The new president of the Irish Medical Organisation claims that Ireland’s medical negligence litigation is causing doctors to leave the country. Hospital staff are facing challenges due to staff shortages and resource issues. The legal landscape in Ireland is increasing referrals from primary to secondary care, which could lead to collapse. Consultant shortages are also…
Individuals with first episode psychosis (FEP) exhibit cognitive impairment across all domains before receiving antipsychotic treatment, as shown in a systematic review and meta-analysis. This emphasizes the importance of identifying patients with severe cognitive challenges who may benefit from cognitive remediation. Cognitive deficits were observed in FEP patients compared to healthy controls, with the largest…