A recent study explored the link between gut microbiome and childhood obesity, using Mendelian randomization to investigate causal associations. Researchers found 16 gut microbes associated with pediatric adiposity and identified key differences in microbiota between obese and non-obese children. The study showed that certain gut bacteria, like Bacteroides and Butyricicoccus, were more prevalent in obese…
A study analyzing data from a survey of youth aged 16-19 found a link between vaping frequency and respiratory symptoms, particularly with the use of nicotine salts and multiple flavored products. Over a quarter of participants reported respiratory issues, with cough being the most common symptom. The study also found that more days of vaping,…
Musculoskeletal (MSK) care is a significant and costly healthcare category in the U.S., with nearly 50 percent of Americans experiencing MSK pain each year. The country spent nearly $500 billion on direct MSK care in 2022, and this number is only expected to rise. The aging population, particularly the baby boomer generation, is increasing the…
A study found 79 unique pigments in 974 permanent makeup inks in the U.S., with 10 of them linked to allergic contact dermatitis. Both organic and inorganic pigments used in cosmetic tattoos may cause this skin reaction. The study investigated the use of organic pigments versus heavy metals in permanent makeup and their association with…
The rise in obesity rates globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries, has led to a growing market for weight loss treatments. However, access to these treatments is limited in poorer nations, creating a potential increase in healthcare inequality. Companies developing anti-obesity drugs must consider equitable access plans to ensure all individuals have the opportunity…
Researchers from Lancaster University have discovered that Huntington’s disease not only affects nerve cells in the brain but also has widespread effects on microscopic blood vessels. The changes in the vasculature were observed even in the pre-symptomatic stages of the disease, providing potential for predicting brain health and evaluating lifestyle changes or treatments. The study,…
A study published in the Nutrients journal examined the relationship between bitter taste receptor genes, alcohol consumption, and body fat percentage. Taste genes play a significant role in food consumption, with the TAS2R family involved in detecting bitterness. The study investigated the association between TAS2R13 and TAS2R38 haplotype distribution, body fat percentage, and alcohol consumption…
Despite improvements in vitamin D testing, some assays may still provide inaccurate results, leading to misclassification of patients. The CDC is working to address these issues through their Vitamin D Standardization-Certification Program. The program has led to improved accuracy in results, nudging manufacturers to reformulate tests. The Endocrine Society advises against routine testing for the…
The FDA has approved Geron Corporation’s drug, imetelstat, for the treatment of anemia in adults with low- to intermediate-risk myelodysplastic syndromes. This marks the company’s first commercialized product and provides competition against Bristol Myers Squibb’s blockbuster drug. The approval is based on the drug’s ability to enable bone marrow recovery and normal red blood cell…
Orthofix has appointed Max Reinhardt as the new president of its global spine business. Reinhardt, who previously held a leadership position at Pacira Biosciences, will oversee SeaSpine, the company’s global spine and biologics business. With experience at companies like Johnson & Johnson and DePuy Synthes, Reinhardt brings strong leadership and a track record of success…
Today, Jason Mast discusses the rise and fall and potential rise again of Luckin Coffee, a Chinese chain once seen as a rival to Starbucks before allegations of accounting fraud surfaced. The FDA is questioning Eli Lilly’s experimental Alzheimer’s drug, donanemab, regarding its safety and effectiveness. They are considering limiting its use to patients with…
Canadian medicine is facing a backlash against efforts to prioritize equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) in healthcare. Criticism arose in response to a report suggesting a focus on equity in medical education, sparking controversy among physicians. The debate centers on the relationship between medical expertise and an equity lens, with some arguing that prioritizing…
FIND and the World Health Organization (WHO) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate innovation and ensure equitable access to quality diagnostics globally. The agreement marks a strengthened partnership between the two organizations, with FIND co-leading the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator diagnostics pillar. The MoU focuses on addressing priority areas such…
New data from a US institution suggests that the prevalence of Cushing syndrome in the United States may be higher than previously thought. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin estimate an incidence of at least 7.2 cases per million patient-years in Wisconsin, with adrenal Cushing syndrome more common than pituitary ACTH-secreting tumors. Milder cases of…
A new report suggests that healthcare providers need to work on building consumer trust in generative AI in order to fully utilize the technology’s potential. The report, based on a survey of U.S. adults, shows a slight decrease in consumer use of generative AI for health reasons. Reasons for this decline include growing distrust of…
The video perspective from the ARVO meeting discusses how central retinal thickness in patients with diabetic macular edema can impact their treatment journey. Data from the PHOTON study showed that patients with more swollen retinas and higher levels of VEGF required the additional VEGF suppression offered by 8 mg aflibercept to maintain anatomy and improve…
Eli Lilly has recently made changes to its executive team, hiring Melissa Seymour as executive vice president of global quality and announcing the resignation of chief financial officer Anat Ashkenazi. The company encourages others to share their own news of new hires, promotions, and other updates. This information will be shared with others, as everyone…
A study from Carnegie Mellon University shows that individuals with autism are using ChatGPT and similar artificial intelligence tools for advice in workplace situations. However, the research found that the advice provided by these tools is sometimes questionable. The autism community is divided on the usefulness of chatbots in this context. While some users prefer…
A study found that a course of doxycycline can reduce the hospitalization and deaths related to nodding syndrome, a disease mainly affecting children in East Africa. Nodding syndrome is linked to infection with a parasite causing river blindness. Research showed that doxycycline can control severe seizures and reduce antibodies to the parasite. The study suggests…
The PRAISE study found that dynamic changes in high-sensitivity cardiac troponin levels in patients with acute ischemic stroke are not helpful in identifying myocardial infarction or distinguishing it from other types of acute myocardial injury. However, high levels of troponin on admission were associated with atherosclerotic heart attacks in this patient population. The study also…
The healthcare industry is facing challenges with clinician shortages, burnout, and patient access to care. Independent contractor physicians, often referred to as locum tenens, are seen as the “smokejumpers” of healthcare, able to fill gaps in care, support new innovations, and extend medical services. These physicians offer flexibility, expertise, and a bridge to innovation. By…
HDL cholesterol is not causally linked to heart disease, but low levels are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. While low HDL is a marker for ASCVD risk, very high levels can also raise the risk of mortality. Therapies to raise HDL levels have not been shown to reduce cardiovascular events. Additionally, a study testing the…
At a recent FDA advisory committee meeting, regulators expressed frustration with Lykos for not tracking positive feelings such as euphoria in their MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD. Missing data on addiction potential was a major concern for the FDA. Lykos executives claimed they misunderstood instructions, but former employees said the company was aware of the requirement…
Ramesh Dhatariya, born in New Delhi, left school to work in the family business but later pursued a career in medicine in Kolkata. Despite family objections, he stood up for the less fortunate during his time in medical school. When he announced his plans to move to the UK after graduation, his family kept his…
Menopause was once a taboo topic, but is now being openly discussed and gaining attention. Recent initiatives aim to improve menopause care and research. Menopause is the cessation of menstruation around ages 45-55, caused by declining hormone levels. Perimenopause precedes menopause and can last for years, during which estrogen levels fluctuate and symptoms like hot…
BioCryst Pharmaceuticals presented new evidence at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Congress in Valencia, Spain, showing that oral berotralstat reduced monthly attack rates in patients with hereditary angioedema (HAE-nC1-INH) who have normal C1-inhibitor levels. A case series of six patients showed a 75 to 100 percent reduction in attack rates after six…
Thrombectomy benefits patients with large-core ischemic stroke compared to medical management, with the greatest benefit seen in those with less tissue injury. A secondary analysis of the SELECT2 trial showed that patients with severe hypodensity ≥ 26 mL within their ischemic lesions did not benefit significantly from thrombectomy. Higher volumes of severe hypodensity were associated…
Researchers have found that women who adhere to a Mediterranean diet have a lower risk of all-cause mortality, including death from cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This diet includes plant-based foods, fish, and healthy oils. The study analyzed biomarkers in over 25,000 women over 25 years, showing that changes in metabolism, inflammation, and insulin resistance are…
An evaluation from the Peterson Health Technology Institute showed that virtual musculoskeletal (MSK) solutions can significantly improve patient outcomes. The analysis examined eight MSK solutions, finding that physical therapist-guided solutions had the best results in improving pain and function, comparable to in-person care while decreasing net spending. App-based exercise therapies were also found to improve…
A study found that a novel nail abnormality called onychopapilloma may help detect BRCA1-associated protein tumor predisposition syndrome, increasing the risk of certain cancers. Of the 47 individuals with BAP1 TPDS studied, 41 had nail abnormalities consistent with onychopapilloma. This benign nail finding, characterized by longitudinal leukonychia, erythronychia or splinter hemorrhage, may serve as a…
Stay updated on biotech news by subscribing to our newsletter. This week’s highlights include the approval of Geron’s drug for blood cancer, the impact of the BIOSECURE Act on the industry, and FDA’s review of donanemab for Alzheimer’s. The BIO International Convention focused on national security in biotech, with concerns about Chinese suppliers. FDA advisors…
The final report of the Infected Blood Inquiry identified six key themes, with the failure to prioritize patient safety in decision making being of paramount concern. The report highlighted the need for a safety culture within the NHS and recommended the General Medical Council provide training materials incorporating patient testimony to promote safety. The inquiry…
Conservative lawmakers are advancing state bans on diversity initiatives in response to the Supreme Court’s ban on affirmative action in higher education. Efforts to prohibit diversity initiatives in medicine are also being promoted, despite clear gaps between white and Black doctors. The lack of Black doctors contributes to racial disparities in healthcare, with only 5.7%…
Experts from The University of Manchester argue that clear rules are needed to govern human embryo research. They discuss the potential benefits of studies using “human embryo models,” such as improving understanding of hereditary diseases and IVF outcomes. However, there is a lack of formal definition and regulation for these models in many countries, leading…
A study compared the effectiveness of biosimilar anti-TNF drugs to originator drugs for treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) using data from the UK JIA Biologics Register. Results showed that at 1 year, 76% of patients who switched to biosimilars and 87% who stayed on originators were still on their drug. The likelihood of stopping the…
Practicing generosity, or giving to others without expecting anything in return, is a powerful tool for mental health. Acts of generosity can lead to less stress, improved self-esteem, and increased happiness. Generosity releases “feel good” chemicals in the body, creating a sense of connection with others. This “helper’s high” can have a profound impact on…
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) being able to receive funds through the Federal Reserve, rather than congressional appropriations. This decision is important because the CFPB has been targeting medical debt collectors who are collecting money from patients. Americans owe $220 billion in healthcare debt, and…
A new strain of Covid-19, referred to as the ‘FLiRT’ strain, is thought to be more transmissible but not more severe in terms of illness. Health officials in Ireland have reported a surge in cases, with 505 cases in a week and 172 people hospitalized. Testing is limited to at-risk groups, leading to a likely…
At the Retina World Congress, Dr. Paulo E. Stanga discusses the benefits of the Silverstone device, which allows ophthalmologists to obtain ultra-widefield fundus fluorescein angiography or indocyanine green angiography with simultaneous central or peripheral navigated OCT. This technology is useful in assessing patients with retinal vasculopathies like diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, or choroidal lesions….
The National Institutes of Health is investing in creating a national primary care research network with a $30 million pilot program called Communities Advancing Research Equity for Health. This program aims to include diverse populations in clinical trials by funding and supporting primary care sites to participate in multiple studies based on their local population’s…
The World Health Organization has reported the first confirmed case of human influenza A(H5N2) in Mexico City, resulting in the death of the individual. The source of exposure to the virus is unknown, but A(H5N2) has been found in poultry in Mexico. The patient had multiple pre-existing medical conditions and was bedridden for three weeks…
Two individuals with Alzheimer’s claim to have overcome the disease through lifestyle changes. More evidence suggests that integrating a healthy lifestyle can reverse symptoms of Alzheimer’s, which is the leading cause of death in the UK. Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, sleep, and mental activities have shown significant impacts on Alzheimer’s symptoms. A CNN…
Coronary heart disease was involved in 1 in 5 deaths in Australia in 2022, according to a new report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The report highlights the most common causes of death in Australia, showing that 4 out of 5 deaths involved more than one cause. Risk factors such as hypertension…
The FDA approved imetelstat for certain patients with relapsed or refractory low- to intermediate-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). This first-in-class telomerase inhibitor is for adults with MDS who have transfusion-dependent anemia and have not responded to other treatments. The approval was based on a phase 3 trial showing improved red blood cell transfusion independence with treatment….
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. ABA therapy has shown to be effective in improving outcomes for children with autism, but has faced criticism for its use of punitive techniques. Success on the Spectrum (SOS) is a franchise founded by an autism mom that…
Researchers found that medical errors are common in hospitals, with a significant percentage being preventable. Medication errors are a major safety hazard, often involving novice nurses. A proposed initiative, #SAFE50, recommends incorporating virtual simulations into nursing education to enhance clinical judgment skills. These simulations help students learn to identify and respond to errors in a…
An Irish study found that women, older individuals, and those more stable in addiction were more likely to return to drop-in fitness sessions for people experiencing homelessness and addiction. The study involved a 16-week fitness program that almost half of participants returned to after their first class. The program, designed by a team from Trinity…
Personify Care and Foxo have partnered to integrate their technologies for improved patient management. Foxo’s communication technologies will be accessible within Personify Care’s platform, enhancing patient coordination. Consultmed has introduced a new AI-powered clinical decision support tool that provides relevant clinical guidelines based on presenting complaints. TMG Cloudland has acquired Primary IT, allowing for a…
KFF Health News senior fellow Céline Gounder discussed the impact of restrictive abortion laws and the health risks of pollution on CBS’ “CBS Mornings” and “The Daily Report” respectively. Additionally, KFF Health News contributor Andy Miller talked about changes to Affordable Care Act subsidies on WUGA’s “The Georgia Health Report.” KFF Health News is a…
In a phase 2b HARMONY study, efruxifermin showed significant improvement in fibrosis at week 24, sustained through week 96 in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis who had fibrosis stage 2 or 3. One-third of patients had a two-stage improvement in fibrosis with no worsening of MASH. Efruxifermin also resulted in resolution of MASH without worsening…