Toniya Farmer experienced a heart attack but faced delays in diagnosis and treatment due to gender biases in healthcare. Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) affects women, predominantly premenopausal, due to factors like hormones, connective tissue disorders, and stress. Patients like Nakeia Jackson and Jennifer Maxwell have suffered multiple SCAD events, highlighting the lack of effective…
A study comparing an AI model’s clinical reasoning with that of physicians found the AI outperformed residents and attending physicians in simulated cases, despite more instances of incorrect reasoning. The study involved 39 physicians and the AI model GPT-4 evaluating 20 clinical cases. The AI achieved a higher clinical reasoning score compared to physicians and…
The CDC has issued a warning about salmonella infections linked to contaminated basil sold at Trader Joe’s, reporting 12 cases in seven states. Trader Joe’s has recalled the affected product and the FDA is investigating. Customers who purchased the basil should not eat it, even if stored in a refrigerator or freezer. Symptoms of salmonella…
The Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT) 2024 registration has started. The exam schedule, eligibility criteria, fee, and exam scheme are all important details that candidates need to be aware of. Cookies are used on the website for analytics, advertising, and site improvement purposes. By continuing to use the site, users agree to the use of…
Healthcare in 2024 faces a paradox: while groundbreaking technologies like precision medicine promise to revolutionize patient care, the sector remains tethered to the outdated practice of fax-based communication. This causes issues for patients with complex medical histories, leading to miscommunication, delays, and unnecessary stress. Despite efforts to transition to digital records, many healthcare providers continue…
A report by the HSE National Doctors and Planning group found that more than 100 consultant posts remained unfilled for over 18 months by the end of last year, despite a 12% growth in the consultant workforce. The report attributed the high vacancy rates to various factors such as job unattractiveness, shortages in specialties, and…
A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that patients with COPD living at high altitudes had worse functional performance compared to those living at lower altitudes. The study looked at outcomes such as lung function, symptoms, and mortality among participants with COPD living at different altitudes. Results showed…
Lawmakers in Washington held a congressional hearing on the Change Healthcare cyberattack, leading to financial trouble for some providers. A new survey found that 1 in 4 adults who lost Medicaid coverage are now uninsured. The panelists discussed the dangers of vertical integration in health care and the impact of losing health coverage. Arizona Republicans…
A study presented at the Society of Healthcare Epidemiologists of America Spring Conference found that mandatory infectious disease (ID) consultations can reduce antibiotic courses for patients with gram-negative bacteremia. The study showed that a consensus approach among ID doctors in a facility can improve outcomes, leading to shorter antibiotic prescriptions and quicker transitions from IV…
Elevance has partnered with private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice to launch a $4 billion primary care company focused on managing patients’ chronic medical conditions. This strategic partnership will combine Elevance’s expertise with CD&R’s resources to create a new company that will include doctors, clinics, and technology to help manage patient care. Health insurers…
Dr. Partha Kar, a consultant in diabetes and endocrinology at Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust, discusses the recent shift in doctors’ attitudes towards advocating for better working conditions and pay. He credits the younger generation for speaking up against the decline in healthcare and pushing back against the status quo. Dr. Kar highlights the importance of…
A study led by Dr. Jizong Zhao, Dr. Dong Zhang, and Dr. Peicong Ge explores the role of glutamine in stroke risk for Moyamoya disease (MMD) patients. Elevated serum glutamine levels were linked to increased stroke risk in MMD. The study found that manipulating integrin subunit beta 4 (ITGB4) and using atorvastatin could alleviate the…
Researchers conducted a biomonitoring study in the Mediterranean Sea to assess contamination levels of cadmium, microplastics, and antibiotics in fish and cephalopods. Cadmium and antibiotic contamination was low, while high levels of microplastics were found in Sparus aurata and Dicentrarchus labrax. The ADRINET project aimed to address pollution in the Mediterranean by improving coastal management….
A study suggests that using two-sided conversion messages, where individuals who previously resisted vaccination explain why they changed their minds, can be effective in persuading people to reconsider their beliefs. Authenticity and personal experience are key factors in the success of these messages. Another study found that giving individuals a choice in COVID vaccine brands…
The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has updated guidelines to provide pregnant physicians with more workplace accommodations and protection against discrimination. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act aims to help women balance their careers and pregnancies by requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations. Female doctors historically face barriers to family planning due to demanding careers, leading…
A new study suggests that engaging in jobs that require cognitive stimulation can lower the risk of memory and cognitive issues as you age. Researchers found that individuals with jobs demanding higher cognitive engagement had a lower risk of experiencing mild cognitive impairment after age 70. The study categorized job tasks into routine manual, routine…
A recent study published in NEJM suggests that early minimally invasive hematoma evacuation can lead to improved outcomes in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage. This procedure may help reduce the size of the hematoma and improve patients’ chances of recovery. The study highlights the potential benefits of this minimally invasive approach in treating this condition….
Carrie Lester, a Medicare enrollee with chronic health conditions, benefits from the Chronic Care Management (CCM) program that offers regular check-ins with doctors outside of office visits. However, only a small percentage of eligible enrollees actually participate in the program due to various factors. While the program has helped reduce hospital visits and improve patient…
Total spending on pay in the Health Service Executive (HSE) increased by almost €2 billion between 2016 and 2022, reaching €5.4 billion. This includes a 50% increase in agency and overtime payments, with basic staff pay also rising by a similar proportion. The report also highlights a 29% increase in the number of health service…
A study published in Respiratory Medicine found that online resources for pulmonary inhaler therapy lack important information on proper inhaler technique, preparation, and care. The study compared information from websites with product monographs for 12 common inhaler devices. Most websites were rated as moderate quality but lacked information on preparation/first-use and post-usage/device-care. Industry websites scored…
NeuroBrave, an AI company, partners with Sourasky Medical Center’s Functional Neurology Unit in Tel Aviv to research complex neurological conditions. They aim to use AI to translate thoughts for paralyzed patients, allowing them to communicate and operate devices. NeuroBrave specializes in emotional and cognitive wearables and uses AI to decode biomarkers in real time. The…
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration compromised on heat protection rules for indoor workers, delaying relief for tens of thousands of prison and jail employees. The deal came after rejecting sweeping heat standards for workers in dangerous hot environments. State prisons will be temporarily exempt from the rules due to implementation challenges. The rules, years in…
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has been designated as a GRADE Center, making it the first organization in the U.S. to receive this recognition. GRADE, known for its rigorous methodology in developing clinical guidelines, is considered the “gold standard” in guideline development. ACP’s designation reflects its commitment to producing high-value clinical guidelines based on…
In the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic, there were shortages of cleaning supplies like antibacterial wipes and disinfectant sprays as everyone focused on sanitizing surfaces. The World Health Organization initially stated that Covid-19 was not airborne, leading to confusion among scientists and physicians. In November 2021, the WHO updated its guidelines to recognize the…
The Royal College of Paediatricians and Child Health (RCPCH) is calling for the removal of the “reasonable punishment” defence in England and Northern Ireland that allows parents to justify physical punishment of their children. This legal protection is already in place in Scotland and Wales. The RCPCH argues that children deserve the same protection from…
An innovative health care program called Integrated Virtual Care (IVC) developed by University of Ottawa researchers successfully matched residents in Renfrew County, Ontario, without family physicians to comprehensive, team-based primary care. The study addressed the shortage of family physicians in rural communities by connecting previously unattached patients to off-site physicians through virtual appointments. The program…
A recent genetic study of over 1.2 million individuals identified 95 genetic loci associated with the risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study, the largest of its kind, revealed 80 previously unidentified loci and 43 genes linked to causing PTSD. The findings confirm that PTSD has a genetic component and provide new targets…
The rise of skin care influencers on social media has led many young people to seek anti-aging products and procedures, despite experts stating that there is no evidence that Gen Z is aging faster than normal. The focus on frown lines and wrinkles online is often driven by perception rather than reality. While Gen Z…
A new pilot study suggests that the ketogenic diet may reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, reverse metabolic syndrome, and promote weight loss. Participants on the high-fat, low-carb diet experienced a 30% reduction in psychiatric symptoms and a 10% decrease in weight. The diet was found to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially improving…
Athletes often get blisters from friction, moisture, and repetitive movement. This discomfort is intensified by the interface between the skin and sports equipment. Blister patches are adhesive dressings that can protect and relieve blisters by reducing friction, providing cushioning, managing moisture, and promoting healing. The ENGO Blister Patches are thin, self-adhesive patches that offer immediate…
Male androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness, can be treated with oral or topical minoxidil. Oral minoxidil is more effective in promoting hair growth but may have more side effects, including low blood pressure and fluid retention. On the other hand, topical minoxidil is easier to apply and has fewer side effects, but…
An experimental Parkinson’s disease drug, tavapadon, has shown promising results in a pivotal study conducted by Cerevel Therapeutics. The drug led to a longer time of motor symptom control in patients with Parkinson’s, with statistically significant increases in “on” time. Tavapadon targets specific dopamine receptors in the brain, aiming to provide better motor control with…
In a recent High Court case, Ras Medical Ltd t/a Auralia Cosmetic Clinic sought discovery from the Medical Council during judicial review proceedings. A patient attended the Clinic and was examined by an unregistered doctor, leading to a complaint and referral to the Preliminary Proceedings Committee. The Clinic sought documents to prove bias and unfairness…
Synapticure, a neurology-focused telehealth company, has partnered with the ALS Association to provide its telehealth platform to supplement in-person care at ALS treatment centers. The partnership aims to address care inequities for ALS patients in remote areas by offering personalized support through a virtual clinic. Synapticure specializes in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS….
Carrie Lester, a Medicare enrollee with multiple chronic health conditions, benefits from weekly calls with her doctor’s medical assistant through the Chronic Care Management program. The program aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by providing care coordination and regular check-ins. However, participation in the program has been low among both doctors and…
The American Kidney Fund has awarded Clinical Science in Nephrology fellowships to Kativa Mistry, MD, PhD, and Marcelle Tuttle, MD, to support their research in kidney disease. The program aims to address the shortage of nephrology researchers by providing funding and advanced training. Mistry will focus on understanding kidney inflammation in cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy,…
The web edition of D.C. Diagnosis, STAT’s newsletter on health and medicine politics, discusses tension between BIO CEO John Crowley and WuXi AppTec. Former HHS secretaries support equalizing Medicare payments. Delaware officials lobby against WuXi. Teladoc’s downfall in the telehealth industry is highlighted, with the former CEO’s departure and stock price drop. UnitedHealth faces a…
Baby food manufacturer Nestlé has been criticized for adding high levels of sugar to cereals marketed in lower income countries while offering no added sugar options in Switzerland. The investigation by Public Eye and IBFAN found that Cerelac and Nido products in Senegal and South Africa contained 6g of added sugar per serving, while similar…
The World Health Organization is alarmed at the spread of H5N1 bird flu to humans and other species, with a high mortality rate. The outbreak began in 2020 and has affected millions of poultry, wild birds, and mammals, including cows and goats. While there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission yet, experts are concerned about…
A recent study in Nutrients explores how various exercise parameters impact post-meal glucose responses in healthy and diabetic individuals. Exercise timing influences blood glucose levels, with pre-meal exercise promoting fat oxidation and stabilizing glucose levels. Post-meal exercise has greater benefits in controlling glucose levels for both non-diabetic and diabetic individuals. Both aerobic and resistance exercises,…
Nearly 50% of pregnancies in the U.S. are unplanned, emphasizing the importance of effective birth control methods. Condoms, birth control pills, IUDs, and permanent options like female sterilization or male vasectomy are all options to prevent pregnancy, with failure rates varying. Misusing birth control can increase the risk of pregnancy, highlighting the need for proper…
Antipsychotic use in older adults with dementia is associated with an increased risk for various health problems, including stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, pneumonia, fracture, acute kidney injury, and more compared to nonuse. The risks are higher in the first week of treatment and highest within the first 3 months. The study emphasized the need…
Research has found that untreated hypertension in women can increase the risk of developing uterine fibroids, noncancerous tumors on the uterus wall. A study of 2,570 women aged 42-52 found that those with untreated high blood pressure had a 19% higher risk of fibroids, while those receiving treatment had a 20% lower risk. Participants taking…
The USFDA has completed a successful inspection at the Piramal Pharma USA facility. The inspection was conducted to ensure that the facility meets all regulatory standards and requirements. This positive outcome reflects the company’s commitment to quality and compliance. Cookies are used on the website for analytics, advertising, and site improvement, and by continuing to…
Healthcare organizations need to prioritize cybersecurity following the recent attack on Change Healthcare. Data is crucial for improving healthcare but also attracts hackers. To strengthen security, organizations should consider moving from single-point solutions to platform-based solutions, adopt industry standards for interoperability, eliminate silos, and assess current cybersecurity risks. They should focus on identifying, detecting, and…
The average length of stay for patients in hospitals in Ireland increased by 12.28% between 2016 and 2022. Most large public hospitals saw an increase in patient stay lengths, with St. James’s Hospital having the longest stay of 10.34 days in 2022. Factors contributing to longer stays include an aging population and the impact of…
Dot Compliance, based in Phoenix, has received $17.5 million in Series B extension funding, totaling $50 million. The funding round was led by IGP Capital and Vertex Ventures, with additional investment from TPY Capital. Dot Compliance offers AI-powered quality management solutions for compliance needs, including document, change, and supplier quality management. The company will use…
A team of Montana researchers is working on developing a more effective vaccine against tuberculosis, a disease that remains a significant global health threat. The current BCG vaccine is not as effective in older age groups, leading to a push for a more powerful vaccine. The University of Montana Center for Translational Medicine is using…
A study published in Rheumatology found that 43% of patients with systemic sclerosis are malnourished, with 33% exhibiting severe malnutrition. Factors associated with malnutrition included older age, higher disease severity, diffuse cutaneous SSc, and various comorbidities. Malnutrition was diagnosed based on weight loss, BMI, and muscle atrophy using the GLIM criteria. Those with malnutrition had…
Microsoft is pushing to integrate artificial intelligence into healthcare, but is also heavily involved in discussions on regulating the technology. The company has helped organize coalitions to set guidelines and technical standards for AI in healthcare, providing resources and top executives to support these efforts. Microsoft’s focus on responsible AI allows it to influence testing…