Public Health

Nonprofit hospitals originally created to serve the poor are now offering concierge physician services for annual membership fees exceeding $2000. Critics argue that this trend exacerbates primary care shortages and benefits only the affluent, driving up healthcare costs. Doctors limit their practices to a few hundred patients to provide immediate access and longer visits. Tax-exempt…

Autism, a developmental disability that affects behavior, communication, and learning, is important to understand on World Autism Awareness Day. It affects 1% of children globally and can last a lifetime, with symptoms varying in severity. Genetics and certain risk factors like exposure to pollution or birth complications play a role. Signs of autism include social…

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has listed down 68 courses in 16 medical institutes to increase postgraduate medical seats. This move aims to address the shortage of doctors in the country. The NMC is working towards expanding the number of postgraduate medical seats to improve healthcare services. By adding more courses in existing medical institutes,…

Rejoyn, a software app developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical and Click Therapeutics, has received FDA clearance as the first prescription digital therapeutic for treating major depressive disorder. The app offers cognitive behavioral therapy lessons, exercises, and reminders in a digital format, intended for use three times weekly for six weeks. Clinical trials showed a trend favoring…

Patients with essential tremor have an increased risk of developing dementia compared to the general population. A study presented at the 2024 American Academy of Neurology meeting found that patients with essential tremor had higher rates of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, leading to loss of functional ability and increased mortality. The study followed…

LG NOVA is exploring the potential for consumer electronics to collect personalized health data for preventative care measures. Atul Singh of LG NOVA discusses how the company is working with hospitals to maximize the value of their hardware through virtual health services such as telehealth and patient monitoring. They are also developing capabilities for ambient…

En enero, Susanne Gilliam, de 67 años, se cayó al resbalar sobre una capa de hielo negro mientras recogía el correo, causando lesiones en la rodilla y tobillo. Este incidente desencadenó múltiples visitas médicas y tratamientos, que se sumaron a la complejidad del sistema de salud de Estados Unidos. La falta de coordinación y especialización…

Breakthroughs in brain health, particularly in concussion assessment and treatment, have been slow despite advances in technology like MRI. Objective brain wave measures, recorded through EEG, are emerging as a priority for providing real-time insights into cognitive brain function following concussive impacts. Point-of-care EEG devices are becoming increasingly accessible, allowing for rapid assessment of concussions…

Medicare Advantage insurers requested higher payment rates from the Biden administration, claiming that the government’s data on healthcare usage didn’t match their own. Despite lobbying efforts, the administration decided to stick with their proposed rates, causing a slight decrease in payment rates for insurers in 2025. This decision led to a drop in stock prices…

A new study based on Medicaid claims data found that children with chronic medical conditions who also have a sleep disorder are at a higher risk of increased healthcare utilization. The study showed that children with a diagnosed sleep disorder were nearly two times more likely to have increased healthcare utilization compared to those without…

Researchers used AI techniques to evaluate the association between built environment features identified by AI models and coronary heart disease (CHD). They used CNNs, LMEM, and activation maps to predict health outcomes at the census tract level using Google Street View images. The study found that AI algorithms could potentially reduce CHD burden by designing…

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that affects many people in the United States. It can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, treatments like Botox, nerve stimulation, and surgery. Keeping a bladder diary can help in understanding OAB symptoms, identifying behaviors that may contribute to the condition, and monitoring response to treatment. Tracking information…

New studies suggest that many women with cancer want advice on managing sexual function issues, often not addressed by clinicians. Patients want to discuss sex but find it overwhelming at the start of their diagnosis or treatment. There is a need for more integration of sexual health screening into gynecologic oncologic clinics. Barriers to discussing…

A recent study found that a combination of the drugs empagliflozin and citalopram is effective in treating major depressive disorder. The researchers discovered that this combination resulted in significant improvements in depressive symptoms compared to taking citalopram alone. Empagliflozin, a medication typically used to treat diabetes, was found to enhance the effects of citalopram, an…

A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke and Alzheimer’s disease, are the leading cause of disease burden worldwide. Neurodevelopmental disorders, age-related neurodegeneration, and emergent conditions like COVID-19 also impact the nervous system. The study estimated the global burden of 37 neurological disorders from 1990 to…

Otsuka Pharmaceuticals and Click Therapeutics have received FDA clearance for their smartphone-based prescription digital therapeutic, Rejoyn, for major depressive disorder. The six-week remote treatment program combines cognitive emotional training and therapeutic exercises to improve brain connections involved in depression. Expected to launch in 2024, Rejoyn is designed as a neuromodulatory mechanism to enhance brain function….

Fiona Lu, cuando estaba en noveno grado, sufrió de depresión y quería recibir terapia, pero su plan de Medi-Cal no cubría el servicio sin el consentimiento de un tutor. Lu se convirtió en activista para cambiar la ley y permitir a menores de 12 años recibir consejería de salud mental sin consentimiento de los padres….

A systematic review and meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials showed that tranexamic acid improved visualization, operative time, and postoperative pain scores for patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Researchers found that patients who received tranexamic acid had superior mean arthroscopic visual scores and lower postoperative pain scores compared to the control group. There was…

The Florida Supreme Court upheld the state’s ban on most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, allowing a subsequent six-week ban to take effect. The court, reshaped by Governor Ron DeSantis, ruled in favor of the 15-week ban signed in 2022, which was enforced while being challenged. A six-week ban passed in 2023 will soon…

A systematic review found that clinical practice guidelines lack guidance for managing elevated blood pressure in hospitalized patients without symptoms. This leads to inconsistent practices, with many patients experiencing higher blood pressures than recommended for outpatient care. While guidelines specify outpatient management, recommendations for inpatient care are limited to emergencies and lack instructions for transitional…

Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine received a grant to study the genetic risk associated with thyroid cancer, potentially preventing unneeded biopsies and surgeries. By analyzing data from biobanks, they aim to create a polygenic risk score to better quantify the risk of thyroid cancer. This research could lead to personalized management…

IgA nephropathy is difficult to predict, but having strong emotional and social support systems can improve long-term outcomes. It is important to maintain a fulfilling life despite the challenges of kidney disease. Peer support, such as talking to others with similar health conditions, can be beneficial. Finding kidney support groups and participating in activities with…

The GEMS-Rx list, developed by a panel of 10 ED physicians and a pharmacist, identifies high-risk medications that should not be prescribed to older patients in the emergency department (ED). This list includes first-generation antihistamines, metoclopramide, short-acting opioids, antipsychotics, barbiturates, skeletal muscle relaxants, benzodiazepines, “Z” drugs, and sulfonylureas. Exceptional cases where these medications may be…

A new study found that the level of physical activity needed to prevent obesity varies depending on an individual’s genetic risk. Researchers used genetic data from the All of Us Research Program to measure the genetic risk of higher body mass index (BMI) as a polygenic risk score (PRS) and physical activity as daily step…

A study has found that overweight or obese children and teenagers are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure as adults. This highlights the long-term health consequences of childhood obesity. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing weight issues in childhood to prevent future health complications such as hypertension. By continuing to use…

Digital databases for clinical trials have revolutionized healthcare by providing crucial information to patients and physicians. However, the sheer size and lack of standardization in these databases can make it challenging to find relevant trials. New technological advances are being developed to improve the search process, similar to how e-commerce platforms simplify product searches. Challenges…

The My Gynaecology Patient Passport has been launched by an Irish hospital, St James’s Hospital, for patients with gynaecological cancer. The passport, filled in by patients and clinicians at Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute, includes important information and resources related to the patient’s diagnosis and care plan. It aims to empower patients, improve communication between…

Hace casi 10 años, Karla Adkins descubrió que el blanco de sus ojos se había vuelto amarillo, lo que indicaba ictericia debido al abuso de alcohol. Tras una falla hepática, se dio cuenta de los peligros de su consumo. Actualmente, las enfermedades hepáticas relacionadas con el alcohol están aumentando más rápido en las mujeres que…

Viatris is launching Ryzumvi, the first FDA-approved eyedrop for reversing dilation, with an onset of action in 30 minutes. The drug was approved based on positive results from two trials involving 553 patients aged 12 to 80 years. Patients who received two drops of Ryzumvi showed a significant improvement in pupil diameter compared to those…

Stay informed on the latest in biotech by signing up for the newsletter. Recent developments include scientists discovering a way to target aggressive pediatric tumor cells using tumor-suppressor genes. A U.K. health agency’s decision on an ALS drug by Biogen raises concerns about access to genetic medicines. Generic versions of diabetes drugs could be more…

University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers have identified a gene on the Y chromosome that contributes to the higher incidence of heart failure in men. Y chromosome loss, seen in about 40% of 70-year-old men, leads to heart muscle scarring and deadly heart failure. The loss triggers changes in heart immune cells that promote…

A new study by the Lancet reveals that over 1 billion people worldwide are living with obesity in 2022, with rates doubling among adults and quadrupling among children since 1990. Despite a decrease in undernutrition, it remains a challenge in certain regions. Countries with the highest rates of both underweight and obesity are in the…

When Laura Wells was diagnosed with MS at 39, her focus on health was sporadic due to raising young kids. After kids grew older, she struggled with worsening MS symptoms but found yoga helped her stay active. Wells emphasizes the importance of small daily exercise, healthy eating, and balance in managing MS symptoms. She also…

A study found that full-dose challenges of beta-lactam antibiotics in emergency department patients with moderate, severe, or unknown allergies can safely reduce unnecessary antibiotic regimens, save costs, and preserve future antibiotic effectiveness. The study analyzed data from 184 patients with beta-lactam allergies treated in the ED, with 90% reporting penicillin allergies. Allergic reactions were noted…

Tuberculosis (TB) is a deadly infectious disease that annually kills over a million people worldwide. Recent research has revealed a new risk associated with TB infection: an increased likelihood of developing various types of cancers. TB primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body, leading to complications such as tissue…

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has announced an extension for the submission of annual declaration details by medical colleges. The last date for submission has been extended, but no specific date has been mentioned. This extension allows medical colleges more time to complete and submit the necessary details. By using cookies for analytics and advertising,…

The artificial intelligence (AI) market is expected to exceed $400 billion by 2027, driving demand for professionals with expertise in machine learning, especially in the healthcare sector. To stay competitive, healthcare corporations and academia must empower ambidextrous professionals with skills in both AI and health science. Large healthcare companies are integrating AI to improve efficiencies,…

The National Children’s Research Centre has been incorporated into Children’s Health Ireland, which is expected to improve the hospital’s ability to care for children. The NCRC has been based on the CHI at Crumlin campus and has worked to promote children’s health research and improve child health outcomes in Ireland. The incorporation brings its functions,…

The way patients interact with their doctors is changing, potentially affecting access to and quality of care in the future. More than 100 million Americans lack regular access to primary care, despite a rise in demand partially due to Affordable Care Act enrollment. The traditional model of seeing the same doctor for decades is shifting…

A study found that severe joint pain is more prevalent in Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Alaska Native patients with arthritis compared to white patients. Less than 60% of patients receive counseling on physical activity, regardless of race. The research, based on data from the CDC 2019 National Health Interview Survey, also showed disparities in…

Public concern has increased regarding the impact of social media on teen mental health following the U.S. surgeon general’s advisory. Calls to ban teens from social media apps have emerged, but researchers suggest that social media could actually offer support for adolescent mental health. Many teens, especially those with minoritized identities, rely on digital spaces…

Former US surgeon general Jerome Adams received a $5,000 medical bill for dehydration treatment in Arizona. He is calling for healthcare reforms to address the high costs and lack of transparency. Adams, a Black physician, highlights the struggles of many Americans with medical debt. He suggests market-based reforms, including more transparency, an arbitration process for…

A recent study published in npj Parkinson’s Disease explores the relationship between Parkinson’s disease (PD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). PD is a common neurodegenerative disease with symptoms like tremors and stiffness, while IBS is a gastrointestinal disease with abdominal discomfort and bowel alterations. The study utilized data from the UK Biobank and found that…

More than half of American women aged 18-49 masturbate regularly, both single and in relationships. Masturbation is a stigma-free way to boost mood, release stress, and increase sexual comfort and confidence. It can help women explore their desires, improve sexual experiences, and experiment with different sensations to reach orgasm. For women experiencing changes during menopause,…

Diet plays a crucial role in managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with key recommendations including elevating the head of the bed, allowing a gap between meals and bedtime, and weight loss. Caloric intake and lipid content in meals impact esophagogastric physiology, with high-calorie, high-fat, or high-carbohydrate meals promoting reflux symptoms. Recent studies highlight the benefits…

In the Bhubaneshwar Doctor Couple murder case, five persons have been sentenced to life imprisonment. The couple was brutally murdered, and the perpetrators have been held accountable for their actions. This case has brought justice to the victims and their families. The sentencing of the perpetrators marks the culmination of a long and difficult legal…

Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) health issues like rectal bleeding and inflammatory bowel disease need timely colonoscopies and endoscopies for individualized treatment plans. However, insurance practices like prior authorization often delay or deny necessary care, leading to adverse health impacts, hospitalizations, and patients abandoning treatment. Insurers prioritize cost over patient health by requiring prior authorization for…

Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) is a leading cause of infant mortality and disability globally, affecting 2-3 per 1,000 live births in high-income countries and up to 30 per 1,000 live births in low and middle-income countries. Early recognition of HIE is crucial for improved outcomes. Advocacy for better understanding and support for infants with HIE…

A study found that psychological distress related to a cancer diagnosis can lead to intentional delays in treatment. Patients often felt an urgency to start treatment but also identified fear as a barrier. This fear could both result from treatment delays and drive them. Educating patients about their treatment regimen and providing anticipatory guidance may…