First Opinion is STAT’s platform for articles about life sciences written by biotech insiders, health care workers, and researchers. It encourages discussion through Letters to the Editor. One article emphasizes the need to support mothers in treatment for opioid use disorder. Another discusses outdated Medicare rules affecting dementia patients. A third examines the limitations of…
The article discusses the balance between specialism and generalism in medical education, with a focus on diabetes and endocrinology. It is authored by Adhithya Sankar, Akheel A Syed, Adam Robinson, Tara Kearney, and Waseem Majeed, who are all consultants and specialists in these fields. The need to maintain expertise in a specialist area while also…
Researchers in China and the US have developed a revolutionary gene therapy that restored hearing in five children with a genetic mutation causing deafness. This therapy involves injecting a modified virus with a working OTOF gene into the inner ear. The results, published in Nature Medicine, show significant improvements in speech perception and the ability…
Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by hair loss due to the immune system attacking hair follicles. Researchers developed a microneedle patch to deliver T cell regulators directly to sites of hair loss, promoting hair regrowth by restoring balance in the immune system without compromising its defenses. This targeted approach improves treatment outcomes…
The iLFT platform, presented at the EASL Congress 2024, utilizes an automated algorithm to analyze liver function test results and determine the cause of liver dysfunction in a primary care setting. Real-world data from NHS Tayside in Dundee, Scotland, showed that 68.3% of iLFT tests required further testing, with the most common outcome being metabolic…
A sexually transmitted fungal infection called Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMVII) has been confirmed in NYC, marking its debut in the U.S. The infection, primarily affecting men who have sex with men, was identified in a man who developed skin rashes after traveling to Europe and California. Although the infection responded to treatment, it took…
Zeto, a medical device company, has received FDA clearance for its ONE EEG brain monitoring device. This device aims to address the shortage of trained EEG technologists and lack of effective brain monitoring in various healthcare settings. The ONE system includes a user-friendly EEG headset with soft-tip electrodes positioned according to the 10-20 EEG system,…
Prof Deborah McNamara has been elected as the new president of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). She has vast experience in healthcare and aims to support younger surgeons facing challenges. Prof Michael Kerin was also appointed as vice-president. Prof McNamara’s contributions include leading the development of a colorectal cancer biobank and founding…
South Korea has approved a new AI software called NNS-SOT for predicting the onset of ischemic stroke or cerebral infarction based on brain MRI images. In India, a breakthrough gastric cancer detection device by RNT Health Insights has received FDA designation for its high detection accuracy in detecting lesions indicative of gastric cancer during endoscopic…
Many physicians and nurses are pleased with the Federal Trade Commission’s new rule banning noncompete agreements in employment contracts. However, the rule may not protect those working for nonprofit hospitals, which employ a large number of medical professionals. The rule prohibits contract clauses preventing employees from working for competitors and aims to lower healthcare costs….
Researchers found that bile duct dysplasia or cholangiocarcinoma was present in most explanted livers in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis. However, 41% of patients with this indication had no signs of neoplasia. The practice of preemptive liver transplantation in patients with bile duct dysplasia is common in the Nordic countries to prevent the development of…
The FDA has expanded approval for GSK’s vaccine to protect against RSV to include at-risk adults as young as 50. Previously only licensed for use in those 60 and older, Arexvy is now available for younger adults with underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of severe illness from RSV. Experts, including Professor Ann Falsey,…
Richard J L Heron, an independent chief medical adviser at Heron Health Consulting, commends Mathew for raising awareness on the issue of economic inactivity. The problem is multifaceted and requires access to occupational health specialist advice. This can benefit individuals, employers, and the economy as a whole. Taking action on this issue is crucial in…
A clinical trial conducted by Stanford Medicine found that a 15-day course of Paxlovid, an antiviral drug for COVID-19, was safe but did not improve symptoms of long COVID. The trial did not show that Paxlovid reduced long COVID symptoms, but it demonstrated that the drug could be taken safely for an extended period. The…
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has developed new classification criteria for hand osteoarthritis to ensure accurate comparisons in trials for new disease-modifying treatments. The criteria include specific radiographic features and focus on distinguishing between different phenotypes of the disease. The criteria are based on age, duration of morning stiffness, number of affected…
The ENDORSE-HF trial showed that adding the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin to diuretic therapy in acute heart failure patients results in rapid decongestion, shorter hospital stays, increased natriuresis, and improved ejection fraction. This combination also allows for the early introduction of key heart failure therapies. The study demonstrated that the initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors during acute…
A study has found that consuming high amounts of the low-calorie sweetener Xylitol may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Xylitol is commonly used as a sugar substitute in processed foods and is known for its ability to reduce tooth decay. The research, published in the European Heart Journal, involved a large-scale patient…
Rapport Therapeutics, a neuroscience technology company from Johnson & Johnson, went public and raised $154 million for proof-of-concept testing of a lead program for epilepsy. The company’s IPO raised $136 million, with an additional $18 million in a private placement. Their lead drug candidate RAP-219 targets AMPA receptors for focal epilepsy treatment, aiming to reduce…
Dr. Chris Luke reflects on the phrase “Check your privilege!!!” and his own experiences in the healthcare system. He discusses his struggles with burnout and the impact of a siege mentality from working in emergency departments. Luke describes his recent hospital experience, highlighting the efficiency, care, and positive atmosphere he encountered in a private hospital….
New research published in The Lancet in 2024 confirms that certain commonly prescribed blood pressure medications, such as calcium channel blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers, can lower the risk of dementia by up to 30%. High blood pressure has long been known to contribute to dementia, and treating hypertension can lower the risk. The study…
Pelago, a digital substance use management platform, has launched an inpatient Centers of Excellence network to improve access to care and reduce costs. Using its SUD-focused digital front door, Pelago identifies members in need of higher-level care and matches them with the best facility. The company provides support throughout treatment and discharge to ensure success….
The White House is urging healthcare leaders to take action to prevent gun violence by collecting more data on gunshot injuries and counseling patients on firearm safety. With Congress deadlocked on gun-related legislation, President Biden is enlisting the healthcare sector to address the public health crisis of gun violence. Data collection on gun injuries is…
The study published in JAMA Health Forum found that most phase 2/phase 3 oncology clinical trials do not report data on American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Black or African American, and Hispanic individuals. The representation of these groups in published clinical trials was low, with zero representation for American Indian/Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian populations….
Scientists have estimated that between 52,480 and 55,710 people in California died prematurely from 2008-2018 due to chronic exposure to dangerous particulate matter in wildfire smoke. The economic impact of these deaths was at least $432 billion. Previous studies primarily focused on short, acute exposures to wildfire smoke, but the UCLA researchers considered it a…
A recent review highlights the lack of representation of ethnic minority communities in genetic medicine research, despite recent advancements in personalized medicine. Trials of a personalized cancer vaccine have shown promising results, but the underrepresentation of ethnic minorities in genomics datasets and research studies remains a significant issue. Experts emphasize the need for urgent changes…
Loss of primary cilia leads to a decrease in PD-L1 expression, contributing to unchecked local T cell proliferation and activation in ciliopathies. This study reveals a connection between ciliary dysfunction and fibrosis in ciliopathic patients and animal models, suggesting a role for autoinflammation in disease onset. The loss of cilia in epithelial cells downregulates PD-L1…
Immunotherapy is a crucial aspect in cancer treatment, enabling the body’s immune system to fight tumors. A recent study found that removing specific enzymes regulating epigenetic processes in dendritic cells can enhance anti-tumor immunity. This discovery may lead to new strategies in immunotherapy. Cancer cells are challenging to combat because the immune system struggles to…
Research suggests that reports of memory issues in older adults are linked to higher levels of tau neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, even without overt clinical symptoms. This highlights the importance of understanding early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, especially with new drugs available. Subjective cognitive decline, reported by both individuals and their partners, may be…
A study found that women who were overweight at age 14 or 31 have a higher risk of ischemic stroke by age 55. The research reviewed data from over 10,000 participants and found that women with excess weight at a young age had an increased risk of stroke even if they lost weight later in…
Healthcare leaders are focused on reimagining access to healthcare, aiming to make patients’ experiences more seamless and patient-driven. Lee Schwamm, chief digital health officer at Yale New Haven Health System, explains that simply increasing appointment availability isn’t enough to address patient frustrations with accessing care. He suggests using large language models to match patients with…
The Cork University Hospital-University College Cork (CUH-UCC) Paediatric Allergy Research Group has been accredited as the country’s first allergy centre of excellence by the World Allergy Organisation (WAO). This recognition highlights their global leadership in allergy and immunology research, education, and clinical care. In Ireland, 10% of children and young adults have multiple allergic disorders….
Dexcom, a glucose monitoring specialist, is expanding its diabetes management capabilities by offering direct connectivity to the Apple Watch with its G7 continuous glucose monitoring system through Bluetooth. Users can check their glucose readings in real-time without needing their iPhone. This feature is currently available in the U.S., U.K., and Ireland with plans to launch…
Magellan Diagnostics has settled criminal charges for concealing a malfunction in lead poisoning tests, resulting in inaccurately low results. The company will pay $42 million in penalties. The faulty devices were used from 2013 to 2017 and a recall was issued as late as 2021. Lead exposure can have serious consequences, especially in children. Children…
Researchers found that there is a significant association between type 2 inflammation and asthma, as well as an increased risk for coronary artery disease. High eosinophil counts were also linked to coronary artery disease. Another study showed that individuals with asthma who have underlying insomnia, depression, and obstructive sleep apnea experience a negative impact on…
Philanthropists and foundations take calculated risks to invest in activities like research, advocacy, and technical assistance to advance their strategic priorities. A recent study on medical debt relief in the U.S. found that it exceeds $220 billion, impacting 2 in 5 adults, especially those in low-income households, people of color, women, and parents. However, relieving…
George Shirriffs attended Aberdeen Grammar School and studied medicine at Aberdeen University. He focused on hypertension, diuretic therapy, cardiogenic shock, and renal calculi during his early career at Aberdeen University. Shirriffs entered general practice in 1969 and contributed to developing a new computer system for general practitioners. He also worked on implementing smoking cessation programs…
The World Health Organization is awaiting genetic data after the first confirmed human death from the H5N2 bird flu strain in Mexico. The 59-year-old man had no history of exposure to poultry but had underlying health conditions. There have been no further infections reported. The risk to the general population is considered low. Mexico’s health…
Seth De Penning discusses the importance of Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs) in ensuring personnel safety and environmental protection. He highlights NuAire’s standout features, such as configurability and extended HEPA filter lifespan. BSCs are vital in containing hazardous airborne particles in environments like microbiology labs and pharmacies. NuAire’s BSCs offer a choice in control panels, work…
Microbiota-focused dietary therapy may improve outcomes for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), as presented at Digestive Disease Week®. Patients with MASLD had poor dietary habits with low fiber and omega-3 intake but high sugars and ultraprocessed food consumption, correlating with specific bacterial species and pathways. Lifestyle modifications, including weight loss and dietary changes, are…
The CDC has issued a warning after a salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers sickened 162 people across 25 states, with 54 hospitalizations. The outbreak originated from cucumbers grown in Florida and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. Retailers and distributors have been advised to notify customers of the recall, as the bacteria can cause…
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to decide whether fishing companies must pay for third-party observers to monitor compliance with regulations, which could impact how the FDA interacts with regulated industries. This decision may overturn the Chevron deference doctrine, which supports regulatory agency interpretations of laws when ambiguous. A separate case involving mifepristone could also…
The Western Health and Social Care Trust is hiring for a position at Altnagelvin Area Hospital in Londonderry with a salary range of £94,127 to £126,907. The closing date for applications is Friday 5th July at 3.30pm, with a waiting list possibly being established for future vacancies. Applicants must clearly demonstrate how they meet the…
Investments in the digital health sector dropped from $15.3 billion to $10.7 billion in 2023, leading to a need for reshaping digital therapeutics for better clinical effectiveness. Dr. Guido Giunti, a digital therapeutics researcher, discussed patient involvement in developing these tools, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity. He highlighted the impact of participatory design and the…
The nursing home industry is challenging new Biden administration rules on staffing, while Senate Democrats are pushing for legislation on contraceptive access. Anthony Fauci testified on COVID-19 response and dispelled conspiracy theories. A huge inflatable intrauterine device in D.C. highlighted the issue of contraception. A cyberattack on London hospitals raises the need for international cybercrime-fighting…
Connie Steed, an infection prevention consultant, discussed the benefits of universal nasal decolonization at the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology annual meeting. She talked about how this practice can lower the burden of S. aureus colonization in healthcare facilities and prevent infections. Nasal decolonization has become standard procedure to reduce the risk…
In the latest episode of “The Readout LOUD,” advisers react to the first psychedelic therapy presented to the FDA, as well as discussing the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting. STAT colleague Meghana Keshavan helps dissect Lykos Therapeutics’ meeting with the FDA advisory committee. The episode also covers news in the health and life sciences,…
Early life circumstances, such as school segregation, contribute to racial disparities in dementia rates, with black individuals being more likely to be diagnosed than white individuals. Active surveillance is a safe option for low risk localized prostate cancer, with low rates of metastasis and mortality. Statin use in individuals over 85 without prior cardiovascular disease…
A study published in JAMA showed that ivonescimab, when combined with chemotherapy, improves progression-free survival in patients with non-small cell lung cancer who have the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) variant. The study compared the efficacy of ivonescimab plus chemotherapy to chemotherapy alone in a double-blind, randomized phase 3 trial involving 322 participants. Results showed…
Julie Rovner is the host of the KFF Health News podcast, “What the Health?” This week, the nursing home industry is suing to block new staffing rules from the Biden administration, while Congress debates a bill on contraceptive access. Anthony Fauci testified on the pandemic response, facing conspiracy theories. The episode also covers cyberattacks on…
Women are often underrepresented in endovascular therapy trials, leading to a lack of specific data on stent and bypass surgical outcomes for them. A recent analysis of data from the REVIVE study aimed to address this gap by focusing on the outcomes for women. The study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness and safety of…