Cone Health is a relatively small health care system in North Carolina with a reputation for keeping locals healthy and out of hospitals. Risant Health, a network formed by Kaiser Permanente, recently acquired Cone Health with a focus on improving health outcomes. Risant’s CEO, Jaewon Ryu, highlights the success of Cone Health in achieving its…
Sarah Clarke, president of the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), is stepping down amidst controversy over physician associates (PAs). Members had criticized her leadership and she will support interim arrangements until September. The RCP council will meet in July to discuss a long-term solution. The college acknowledged the need for a reset and will focus…
Researchers have found that tirzepatide, a drug used to manage type 2 diabetes, may be effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed that tirzepatide led to a significant decrease in breathing interruptions during sleep, a key symptom of OSA. The drug also improved other…
A small clinical trial led by the Abramson Family Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine has shown promising results by adding an anti-inflammatory drug to anti-PD1 checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy for advanced lung cancer. The study published in Science highlighted the importance of reducing chronic inflammation while maintaining initial inflammatory responses…
The FDA granted accelerated approval to Adagrasib (Krazati) with cetuximab for patients with KRAS G12C–mutated colorectal cancer who previously received certain chemotherapy treatments. Adagrasib is the first KRAS inhibitor approved for colorectal cancer, also approved for non-small cell lung cancer based on positive trial findings. The recommended dose is 600 mg taken orally twice daily…
Nuts are nutrient-rich foods that can actually help with weight loss when included in a reduced-calorie diet. A recent study reviewing data from seven clinical trials found that including nuts in the diet was associated with weight loss in four of the trials. Nuts are rich in healthy fats, plant protein, and dietary fiber, promoting…
Sarepta Therapeutics gene therapy Elevidys, initially failed its confirmatory test but has now converted its accelerated FDA approval to a traditional one. The therapy can now be used for all Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients above the age of 4. The therapy works by producing micro-dystrophin to address the deficiency of dystrophin in Duchenne patients. While…
The Child and Family Agency notified the regulator of 54 serious incidents, including deaths of children in care. A HIQA report found that the agency lacked sufficient staff to provide adequate services to vulnerable young people. The report highlighted staffing gaps and increasing referral rates affecting the quality of services for children. Additionally, HIQA completed…
The article discusses six popular herbs used to manage anxiety, highlighting their therapeutic potentials and risks. Chamomile is known for its calming effects but may cause adverse reactions in those allergic to ragweed. Goldenseal can alleviate psychological stress but may cause digestive upset and should be avoided by pregnant women. Lavender reduces anxiety levels but…
Researchers at Flinders University and digital health company goAct have developed a mobile app to help individuals with ADHD self-manage their condition. The app includes targeted questions, psychoeducation tools, and a clinical dashboard for care teams to track patient progress. A study testing the app identified barriers and enablers to digital innovation in ADHD care,…
Julie Rovner is the chief Washington correspondent and host of KFF Health News’ podcast “What the Health?” where she discusses critical health policy issues. The upcoming presidential election will likely focus on abortion as a leading health policy issue, but other topics like high prescription drug prices, the fate of major health programs, and reproductive…
A survey of optometrists found that nearly two-thirds provide less than 20% of their diabetic patients with nutrition or dietary counseling, with 20.5% providing none at all. Despite this, over 70% of optometrists feel responsible for providing nutrition counseling to diabetic patients. The study also revealed that barriers to providing counseling include lack of time,…
A therapy derived from stem cells allowed twelve people with type 1 diabetes to produce enough insulin to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Most participants reduced or eliminated the need for insulin injections over three months, with three individuals no longer requiring injections at all after one year. Researchers believe this approach holds promise for…
In an interview with Bloomberg, Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman emphasized the inevitability of resistance to new technologies throughout history. He compared it to the initial skepticism surrounding the introduction of books, acknowledging some valid concerns but ultimately highlighting their incredible utility. Meanwhile, The BMJ has been a pioneer in embracing artificial intelligence as a tool…
A recent study by CAMH found that 75% of young Ontarians with a psychotic disorder had at least one mental health service visit within three years before their diagnosis. The study indicates that these individuals are more likely to have prior mental health-related hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and substance use disorders compared to those…
A groundbreaking clinical trial was conducted to treat Sanfilippo syndrome, a neurodegenerative disease with no approved treatment. Anakinra, targeting neuroinflammation, was used and showed significant improvements in multiple symptom domains in patients with moderate to advanced stages of the condition. The trial demonstrated safety, tolerability, and positive outcomes, offering hope for individuals impacted by this…
A study on prescription patterns for migraine medications reveals gender and racial disparities in access to care. Men received more prescriptions for calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) medications compared to women, potentially due to contraindications in pregnancy. White patients received more prescriptions than other racial groups, with a spike in Black patients in 2021. Non-Hispanic, non-Latino…
Early removal of ovaries, especially before age 40, can impact women’s brain health, according to a recent study. Researchers found that women who undergo oophorectomy before menopause are at a higher risk of reduced white matter integrity in their brains as they age. This can lead to cognitive impairments and neurological issues. The study analyzed…
Patients navigating complex therapy decisions face challenges in understanding potential outcomes, side effects, quality of life impact, and costs. Research consulting organizations work with pharmaceutical companies to develop AI solutions that enhance patient care. AI tools streamline data processing in clinical research and safety monitoring, improving decision-making. In medical information, AI improves keyword searches, document…
The week up to June 15 saw a 48 per cent increase in recorded Covid-19 cases in healthcare and residential settings, with a total of 48 outbreaks reported. Acute hospitals had 20 outbreaks, nursing homes had 14, and other residential institutions had 12 outbreaks. A total of 650 confirmed cases were reported, with 306 hospitalised…
A UK study published in JAMA found that offering cash prizes could help men with obesity to lose weight. The “Game of Stones” trial involved 585 men in Glasgow, Scotland, who received motivational text messages with or without cash incentives. Those who received both lost about 5% of their starting weight, compared to 3% for…
Australian researchers have developed a new AI tool called PSICHIC, which can decode protein-molecule interactions without the need for costly 3D structures, reducing the cost of drug discovery. This tool can effectively screen new drug candidates and distinguish the functional effects of compounds. University of Canterbury researchers are using digital twin technology to optimize mechanical…
Abigail Arellano keeps her son Samuel’s medical bills accumulated since he was shot at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade in a blue folder above the microwave. With bills totaling over $5,000 for ambulance rides and medical care, the family, who is uninsured, relies on a fund that raised nearly $2 million after the…
A recent study published in Cell suggests that the X chromosome in females may play a role in their increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases compared to males. Howard Y. Chang and colleagues found that the Xist ribonucleoprotein, which is only expressed in females, may contain autoantigenic components that contribute to autoimmunity. They observed in a…
Veronica Ayala’s childhood spent in a grim institution for children with disabilities highlights the harmful practice of segregating people with disabilities in hospitals. The landmark Olmstead decision in 1999 aimed to shift towards community-based care for people with disabilities, recognizing their rights and autonomy. However, implementation has been uneven, with ongoing battles for compliance in…
The Royal College of General Practitioners has advised general practices to stop recruiting physician associates (PAs) until regulation and scope of practice guidance is finalized. A consultation found that half of GPs had witnessed patient safety issues related to PAs. The RCGP recommends that practices review their recruitment plans and halt additional recruitment of PAs…
New research by physician scientists at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has found a type of immune cell that can regrow nerve fibers in the central nervous system, offering hope for treatments for incurable neurological diseases and spinal cord injuries. This discovery marks a significant advancement in medical science, as dying nerve cells…
Researchers at The Ohio State University have identified special white blood cells that can regrow nerve fibers, a breakthrough in medical science. By stimulating bone marrow cells with specific molecules, these cells can be transformed into pro-regenerative agents that help damaged nerve cells survive and regrow. This discovery offers hope for conditions such as spinal…
A study conducted at Toronto Western Hospital found no significant differences in discharge times from the operating room between patients with severe obesity and obstructive sleep apnea who received sugammadex or neostigmine during bariatric surgery. The study included 120 adults who underwent elective bariatric surgery with general anesthesia. Results showed no significant difference in operating…
Researchers have found that regular walking can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence of low back pain, a condition that impacts a large portion of the population and is a leading cause of disability worldwide. The study involved 701 adults who had recently recovered from an episode of low back pain and found that those…
The FDA is considering changing its policy on biosimilars to make it easier for companies, clinicians, and patients. Currently, pharmacists can’t substitute a lower-cost biosimilar for a brand-name biologic without FDA approval. To become interchangeable, a biosimilar must undergo clinical trials, but the FDA is now considering removing this requirement. Lawmakers, like Senator Mike Lee,…
The Mater Hospital Foundation funded the development of a Dementia Friendly Sitting Room on St Anne’s Ward, designed to cater to the needs of patients with dementia. This space provides a serene environment with home-like features such as a fireplace, piano, and comfortable furniture. The room aims to promote relaxation and independence for patients and…
A briefing article published in JAMA on June 7, 2024, presented findings on long COVID demographics in the US. Women and individuals aged 35-65 were more likely to report long COVID, with white individuals more likely than Black, Hispanic, and Asian individuals. Analysis from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey estimated that 6.9% of Americans have…
Pomelo Care, a virtual maternity care platform, has received $46 million in Series B funding led by Andreessen Horowitz and First Round Capital. The company offers virtual fertility, pregnancy, and newborn care services with a focus on reducing maternal and infant complications. Marigold Health, which provides AI-supported peer support for substance abuse disorders and mental…
Gov. Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers are working with health industry leaders to reach an agreement on billions of new dollars for Medi-Cal before a November vote. An initiative backed by various health care sectors would provide funds to increase payment rates for health care professionals serving Medi-Cal patients. Newsom initially supported this but later…
A study found that each 2-hour increment of television watching per day decreased the odds of healthy aging by 12%, while each 2-hour increase in light activity at work per day increased the odds of healthy aging by 6%. Healthy aging was defined as reaching the age of 70 years with no major chronic diseases…
Ginkgo Bioworks, a Boston life sciences firm, is laying off 158 employees with more layoffs expected. The company announced plans to cut labor costs by 25%, reducing employees from 1,218 at the end of last year. The layoffs are part of a restructuring to focus on reaching breakeven. Ginkgo’s revenue declined, leading to cost-cutting measures…
Kent Buse and Martin McKee criticize UK political parties for not addressing pandemic prevention in their election manifestos. The parties focus on blaming the covid-19 pandemic for various issues instead of proposing strategies to prevent future pandemics. The Conservative Party emphasizes national security in its manifesto, while Labour pledges to address covid-related corruption. The Liberal…
A new series published in The Lancet highlights the importance of early detection and management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) before 14 weeks of pregnancy to prevent complications for mothers and babies. GDM prevalence is increasing globally due to factors like obesity, posing risks for pregnancy complications and long-term health issues. Early GDM diagnosis can…
Gov. Gavin Newsom, state lawmakers, and health industry leaders are under pressure to reach an agreement on billions of new dollars for Medi-Cal before a November ballot initiative. The initiative, supported by various sectors of the state’s health care industry, aims to increase payment rates for health care professionals serving Medi-Cal patients. However, Newsom has…
Around 15%-20% of the global population are neurodivergent, facing challenges in learning, social engagement, and work tasks due to conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s syndrome. Neurodivergent individuals can excel in fields like medicine, where traits like hyperfocus, pattern recognition, and empathy are valued. However, neurodivergent physicians often struggle with stigma, burnout, and lack…
Nutrition cookies offer a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional snacks, providing protein and fibre for improved performance and reduced guilt. These cookies, like Performance Inspired Nutrition Protein Cookie and ChipMonk Keto Cookie Bites, provide essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor or texture. With lower sugar content and high-fibre components, nutrition cookies help regulate blood sugar…
The healthcare sector is a prime target for cyberattacks, with hospitals facing disruptions and millions in damages due to ransomware. The FBI reported healthcare as the most targeted infrastructure sector by cybercriminals, highlighting the urgent need for fortified cybersecurity measures. To address this, healthcare leaders should focus on enhancing risk analysis, cultivating cybersecurity awareness, implementing…
The China International Export Expo (CIIE) is a major trade fair where global companies showcase their latest technologies, products, and services. Over 173 countries have participated, resulting in over $420 billion in tentative transactions. The CIIE has become a crucial platform for introducing innovative medical solutions, with many new drugs and medical devices entering the…
GE HealthCare and MediView XR successfully used their OmnifyXR Interventional Suite System in a clinical setting. This system, developed collaboratively in 2022, combines GE’s imaging technology with MediView’s AR platform to assist physicians in assessing patient anatomy, making clinical decisions, and enabling remote collaboration. Features include displaying multiple video streams, interacting with 3D models, and…
Arizona and Florida lawmakers voted to expand the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to cover children ineligible for Medicaid. While Arizona’s plan aligns with Biden administration policies, Florida has removed at least 22,000 children from CHIP for unpaid premiums. This reflects ideological differences on the government’s role in health insurance. Former President Trump has hinted…
The study found that LGBTQ+ cancer survivors, especially transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, have a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions and limitations compared to non-LGBTQ+ survivors. Researchers analyzed data from over 40,000 survivors and found that LGBTQ+ survivors had increased odds of asthma, depressive disorders, kidney disease, stroke, diabetes, and other health issues….
Doctors Without Borders is closing down its access-to-medicines campaign in favor of a new effort focused on products for their own relief efforts. The decision was made to avoid duplication of work and unnecessary expenses. The organization plans to integrate campaign staffers into the new initiative, affecting up to 50 employees and consultants. The new…
Locum GP Jane Lees-Millais received overwhelming support from fellow GPs after confronting the prime minister about the state of the NHS during a live televised campaign speech. She expressed concern about the disintegration of the NHS and the high number of unemployed GPs due to government policies. Lees-Millais emphasized that 37,000 GPs will not vote…
A study published in Microbiome found that valeric acid, a substance produced by gut bacteria, reduced binge drinking in mice, opening a new avenue for treating alcohol abuse. Binge drinking increases the risk of alcohol addiction, with one out of three young Europeans and North Americans engaging in this behavior. The gut microbiome and the…