A study conducted on nursing home residents found that the use of blood pressure drugs increases the risk of life-threatening bone fractures in the elderly. Nearly half of nursing home residents experience falls each year, with up to 25 percent leading to serious injury. The study compared the 30-day fracture risk in patients who started…
The CDC has launched an interactive map that shows influenza A virus levels in wastewater, including H5N1, to track potential spread. Wastewater surveillance cannot distinguish between virus subtypes or sources. H5N1 has been found in various bird and animal populations in the US. The dashboard is a new public health measure to track the spread…
A study published in Osteoporosis International explores the relationship between body mass index (BMI) trajectories in middle adulthood and the risk of bone fractures in late adulthood. The study, based on data from the Framingham Original Cohort Study, found that participants transitioning from overweight to normal weight during middle adulthood had a higher risk of…
A recent study in Scientific Reports examined Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HDSS) in women and men, a condition characterized by low sexual desire causing distress. Research using fMRI and questionnaires found women with HDSS exhibit hyperactivity in higher cognitive areas suppressing sexual brain regions, while men did not show this pattern. This study highlights sexual…
Roche announced that the FDA has approved their HPV self-testing kit. This kit is designed to screen for the human papillomavirus, which can help identify women at risk of developing cervical cancer earlier. This approval marks a significant step in improving early detection and potentially saving lives. Source link
The FDA cleared the expanded indication of the UltraClear cold ablative fractional 2,910 nm fiber laser for treating benign pigmented lesions and vascular dyschromia. Acclaro Medical, the company behind this laser, is focused on improving treatment for pigmentation disorders by offering a more effective alternative to acids, peels, and older devices. The UltraClear laser works…
The COVID-19 pandemic forced many older adults to adopt technology for social interactions, leading to changes in how they communicated within their support networks. A study by University of Washington researchers found that older adults not only received support through technology but also provided support, including emotional, financial, and physical assistance. The research emphasized the…
A study in Finland examined the costs of severe traffic injuries over a two-year period. The study found that the total costs were €20 million, with most costs being direct, followed by indirect and other costs. Patients with higher injury severity scores and injuries to the pelvis or lower extremities had higher total costs. The…
New research shows that the risk of moderate and severe neutropenia associated with clozapine therapy is low in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. None of the nearly 1000 patients in the study developed severe neutropenia, and rates of moderate and mild neutropenia were also low. The findings suggest that current hematologic monitoring requirements for clozapine should…
A study conducted in Norway found no significant differences in keratometry measurements before cataract surgery between patients with dry eye disease and those without. The study, part of a prospective trial, included 131 patients and used three different optical biometers to assess keratometry. Researchers found that variability in astigmatism was higher among patients with hyperosmolarity…
A study conducted at the University of Gothenburg has found that bariatric surgery is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in women with obesity, particularly in those with high blood insulin levels at the time of surgery. The study included 2,867 women with obesity, half of whom underwent bariatric surgery. Results showed a…
A recent study investigated the relationship between internet access and well-being globally, finding a positive correlation in most cases across diverse demographics and countries. The study used data from over 2 million participants and found that internet access and use predicted higher psychological well-being, with positive associations in 96.4% of cases. However, negative effects were…
A study found that elevated free estradiol index (FEI) is strongly linked to metabolic and inflammatory markers in men of all ages and older women, while a higher free androgen index (FAI) is associated with similar markers in women younger than 50 years. The research, based on data from over 9,000 adults, suggests that imbalances…
A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that men with low testosterone concentrations have a higher risk for all-cause mortality, with those with very low testosterone also at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease mortality. The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 prospective cohort studies involving 24,109 men. They…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a decrease in U.S. fatal overdoses in 2023, marking only the second annual decline in the national drug death epidemic since it began over three decades ago. While experts remain cautious about drawing large-scale conclusions, the decrease is seen as a positive development. Possible reasons for the…
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that greater community mobility is linked to better cognitive function in adults aged 52 and older. The study included 7,016 Black and white participants and found that the association between mobility and cognition was stronger in individuals with a low risk of atherosclerotic…
Novo Nordisk reassures that there will be no shortage of its Wegovy weight-loss drug in Denmark, despite earlier warnings from the Danish Medicines Agency about strained supply of two doses. The agency had predicted shortages of the 1 mg and 0.5 mg injection pens due to high demand. Novo Nordisk stated that all doses of…
In a study on children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis, male sex, Black race, and Medicaid insurance were associated with an increased risk for blindness. The study found that disparities exist in visual outcomes and complications among these patients. Despite improvements in therapies for JIA-associated uveitis, clinicians should be aware of these disparities when evaluating…
Medical guidance on the term “excited delirium” is being updated, indicating a shift away from its use. The term gained attention after being used in relation to the death of George Floyd in police custody. Originally coined in the 1980s to explain unexplained deaths of black women, subsequent studies have found no medical basis for…
Perioperative immunotherapy, given before and after surgery, significantly improves event-free survival in patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer compared to chemotherapy alone. Results from the Phase III CheckMate 77T study showed a 42% reduction in the risk of disease progression, recurrence, or death with perioperative nivolumab. Patients receiving this combination also had higher rates…
A recent study in eBioMedicine found a connection between SARS-CoV-2 infection and MDA5 autoimmunity, particularly in cases of interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with dermatomyositis (DM). The study investigated the rise in MDA5-related disease during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified an increase in MDA5+ cases in the UK in 2021. The study proposed the term…
A recent literature review on testosterone therapy’s impact on cardiovascular health found that while the TRAVERSE trial showed no increased risk for major cardiovascular events, other studies have yielded different results. The review, which included 11 prospective cohort studies, found that men with very low testosterone, high luteinizing hormone, or very low estradiol concentrations had…
Addressing social and political determinants of health is crucial for improving visual outcomes in patients, as only 20% of healthcare contributes to overall health. Factors such as socioeconomic status and physical location play a significant role in a patient’s health. Disparities exist in eye care, with conditions like diabetic retinopathy affecting Black Americans more than…
Trisha L Amboree, Joslyn Paguio, and Kalyani Sonawane highlight the importance of equitable access to the HPV vaccine in reducing cervical cancer inequalities. The HPV vaccine has shown effectiveness in preventing invasive cervical cancers caused by HPV strains. Falcaro and colleagues provide further evidence of the vaccine’s impact in eliminating invasive cancers and address whether…
Researchers have developed a method to assess Alzheimer’s disease severity by analyzing patterns of tau pathology in brain scans. Using unsupervised machine learning, they identified eight patterns of tau deposition correlated with clinical outcomes. This model could help determine disease progression and guide treatment decisions. The study, published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia, aims to monitor…
A study published in Environment International found microplastic polymers in human blood, raising concerns about cardiovascular complications. Microplastics are plastic particles in various environments and can enter the bloodstream through inhalation and ingestion. The study identified 24 polymer types in 90% of participants, with polyethylene being the most common. The microplastic particles were larger and…
A new study of over 2 million individuals across 168 countries found that internet use can enhance well-being, contrary to previous research suggesting a negative impact on mental health. Conducted between 2006 and 2021, the study assessed participants’ psychological well-being and internet use. Positive correlations were observed between internet connectivity and well-being, with active internet…
The Bipartisan Senate AI Working Group released a roadmap for AI policy in the U.S. Senate, recommending funding for cross-government AI research and development, especially in biotechnology and healthcare. They emphasize the need for legislation to support AI deployment in healthcare while ensuring patient safety and innovation. Transparency requirements for providers and the public are…
A study presented at the Arthroscopy Association of North America Annual Meeting evaluated the impact of marrow venting and platelet-rich plasma on meniscal repair surgery outcomes. The study found that these adjuvants did not significantly affect patient-reported outcomes or survivorship at a minimum of 2-year follow-up. The failure rates for meniscal repair were not significantly…
A study conducted in England by Milena Falcaro and colleagues sought to evaluate the effectiveness of the HPV vaccination program in reducing the incidence of cervical cancer and CIN3 using 12 additional months of data. The study found that the vaccination program was highly effective in reducing cervical cancer and CIN3 across all levels of…
A study published by The BMJ shows that the HPV vaccination program in England has significantly reduced cervical disease in all socioeconomic groups. The vaccination has been particularly effective in preventing cervical cancer and precancerous lesions, with rates being 84% lower in vaccinated women compared to unvaccinated women. The program has prevented a significant number…
Obesity is a major contributor to illness and death, particularly due to cardiovascular disease, resulting in 18 million deaths annually. New anti-obesity medications (AOMs) are being used to address this issue. A recent study examines the impact of AOMs on cardiovascular complications in obese individuals. AOMs like semaglutide and tirzepatide have shown promise in reducing…
As the H5N1 avian influenza virus spreads among poultry and cattle in the US, Canadian experts are monitoring risks. Health agencies are increasing testing and surveillance in Canadian cattle and milk, with no evidence of the virus in dairy cows or commercial milk. The CDC has identified the virus in dairy herds across several states…
Clinical practice guidelines for chronic pain can provide conflicting recommendations, leading to challenges for healthcare providers. Dr. Jason W. Busse highlighted issues with the trustworthiness of recommendations, differences in methods and evidence use, and the importance of transparency in guideline development. He also discussed the Chronic Pain Recommendation Map, a forthcoming resource aimed at clarifying…
The Wall Street Journal reports that fake studies have led to thousands of retractions and millions of dollars in lost revenue for publishers of scientific journals. Wiley is closing 19 journals due to research fraud from “paper mills” that fabricate papers for a price. In another story, Amgen is accused of prioritizing profits over patients…
The impact of climate change on weather patterns and adverse events is likely to have negative effects on the health of people with brain conditions, according to a study led by researchers at UCL. The researchers reviewed 332 papers spanning from 1968 to 2023 and found that conditions such as stroke, dementia, and mental health…
A new study introduces RoboCA3T, a robot-inspired computer-assisted adaptive autism therapy that leverages children with autism’s affinity towards technology and robots. The therapy incorporates robot avatars and computer-assisted therapies through a web-based solution. Researchers noted improvements in joint attention and imitation skills after the intervention. This research aims to develop cost-effective, evidence-based treatments for children…
The ANNEXA-I trial evaluated the factor Xa inhibitor reversal agent, andexanet, in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage taking factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulants. Results showed better control of hematoma expansion with andexanet but increased risk of thrombotic events, particularly ischemic stroke. The primary endpoint was achieved in a higher percentage of patients receiving andexanet compared to usual…
In partnership with TBD Health, sexual health company Wisp now offers access to at-home STD testing kits on its platform. This partnership aims to provide patients with easy access to sexual health care without judgment or insurance hassles. Patients can order the testing kits on Wisp’s website for free delivery, take the test at home,…
The FDA granted accelerated approval to lisocabtagene maraleucel (Breyanzi) for the treatment of adults with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma who have received at least two prior lines of systemic therapy. The drug, also known as liso-cel, is a CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. The approval was based on results from the phase 2…
The Biden administration has suspended federal grants to the EcoHealth Alliance, a research group involved in controversial work in China. The group was criticized for its collaboration with the Wuhan Institute of Virology and its delay in reporting high-risk studies. The HHS cited multiple federal documents in its decision to suspend funding, including one that…
A study has found that 54% of older Native Americans have cognitive impairment, with 10% having dementia, which is significantly higher than in the general American population. The study identified vascular injury, hypertension, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease as contributors to dementia in Native Americans. The research suggests that modifiable risk factors like hypertension and diabetes…
A study published in Personal Relationships focused on how mindfulness, self-compassion, and need fulfillment relate to relationship and sexual satisfaction in midlife married couples. The study involved survey results from 640 adults aged 40–59 years married in Canada. The results highlighted the importance of need fulfillment, particularly relatedness needs, in connecting higher mindfulness and self-compassion…
The number of reported drug overdose deaths in the United States declined by 3.1% in 2023, the first decrease in 5 years, according to provisional data from the CDC. Despite the drop, over 100,000 people still died from overdoses, with some states experiencing increases. Synthetic opioids and heroin deaths declined, while deaths from methamphetamine and…
Despite closures and layoffs in the virtual care sector this year, telehealth is still a viable and effective tool when integrated into a greater healthcare system. Companies that focused solely on telehealth without connection to broader care delivery struggled to be profitable. However, health systems like Providence continue to see success with over 1.1 million…
A study published in The European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that a higher fat to carbohydrate ratio in the diet was associated with decreased asthma prevalence, with no difference between plant-based and animal-based fat. Carbohydrate supply was strongly associated with increased asthma prevalence rates. The study also highlighted the role of macronutrient…
The WuXi Biologics company is facing the threat of being added to a blacklist that would prevent certain biotech firms from operating in the United States. The bipartisan BIOSECURE Act, which aims to create this blacklist, has been passed by the House Oversight and Accountability Committee. The goal is for the House to pass the…
Researchers from Bar-Ilan University and Sheba Medical Center have created a new platform using C. elegans worms to model human muscle diseases, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, without genetic modifications. They harvested extracellular vesicles from patients with the disease and transferred them to the worms, resulting in muscle atrophy similar to human symptoms. This innovative…
New research in Aging Cell shows that exercise may help prevent or slow cognitive decline during aging. The study involved assessing gene expression in brain cells of mice and found that exercise can revert gene patterns in aged microglia cells to those of young cells. Depleting microglia revealed their role in the stimulatory effects of…
Experts are discussing the potential for anti-obesity drugs to contribute to the loss of lean mass, which is necessary to maintain metabolic function. While lean mass loss is expected with successful weight loss interventions, measures should be recommended to prevent these effects. Significant fat loss from anti-obesity medications can outweigh the drawbacks of lean mass…