Yaguang Wei and Joel Schwartz from Harvard’s Department of Environmental Health argue that while WHO’s tightened air quality guidelines are beneficial, more action is needed to reduce air pollution. Studies show fine particulate matter (PM) 2.5 is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and meeting the new guidelines could reduce hospital admissions by 23% in…
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine investigated the impact of germline or inherited structural variations on gene expression in human cancers. Published in Cell Reports Medicine, the study found that specific germline structural variations could be potential candidates for cancer genetic testing, especially those involving genes with therapeutic targeting implications. Structural variations are changes in…
Physician-scientists at UPMC and the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new cellphone app that uses AI to diagnose ear infections accurately in children. The app aims to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use by providing a reliable diagnosis of acute otitis media (AOM). AOM is commonly misdiagnosed, leading to ineffective or excessive antibiotic treatment. The AI…
Kathy N. has dealt with multiple food allergies since childhood, relying on over-the-counter medications for relief. The FDA recently approved a drug called Xolair to reduce the risk of life-threatening allergic reactions, offering hope to the millions affected by food allergies. Studies have shown promising results in providing protection against accidental exposures to various allergens….
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed an app called the Baby Sleep Planner to assess the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and improve the communication of safer sleep advice to families. The app has received positive feedback from professionals and families. SIDS is still a leading cause of infant mortality, particularly…
Bisphenol A (BPA) found in plastic products like water bottles is linked to disruptions in hormonal function, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, and now a new study suggests it impacts the gut microbiome and childhood obesity. Researchers in Spain found that exposure to BPA can promote different microbial communities in children…
A study found that providing extended anaerobic coverage in aspiration pneumonia does not result in additional mortality benefit. This means that the use of additional antibiotics targeting anaerobic bacteria does not improve outcomes for patients with this type of pneumonia. The research suggests that current treatment strategies for aspiration pneumonia may be effective without the…
As breast cancer therapy improves survival rates, the impact of long-term treatment complications like lymphedema becomes more significant. Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) can have quality of life and economic implications, with treatment costs ranging from $14,877 to $23,167 over two years. Early detection of BCRL is crucial to prevent progression to chronic lymphedema. Bioimpedance spectroscopy…
Janssen has been collaborating with the University of Galway since 2012, providing Health Economics students with placement opportunities. At an event, students and lecturers met with Janssen’s Market Access and Government Affairs team, engaging in presentations and workshops. Orla Jenkins of HIQA received the Janssen Bursary Medal for academic excellence in health economics. Janssen also…
A study published in Pediatric Cardiology found that infants with elevated left ventricular internal dimensions (LVIDd) prior to ventricular septal defect (VSD) repair are at risk for postoperative left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD). Postoperative LVSD is common in these patients but resolves within 9 months of surgery. The study, conducted at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, included…
