Some radiology clinics in the U.S. are offering AI analysis of mammograms for an extra $40, which isn’t covered by insurance. The analysis uses AI to detect abnormalities that human radiologists might miss and has the potential to improve the detection of suspicious breast masses and lead to earlier diagnoses of breast cancer. While studies…
The phase 2 clinical trial of Verrica’s peptide-based immunotherapy for basal cell carcinoma has enrolled and dosed its final patient. VP-315, an oncolytic peptide, is injected directly into tumors to induce immunogenic cell death. The trial includes 80 patients with biopsy-proven BCC. Verrica’s VP-315 program aims to provide an alternative to surgery for BCC treatment,…
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to consider the legality of Idaho’s abortion law, reinstating its highly restrictive ban in the meantime. This is expected to lead to similar measures in other states, with politicians in Idaho and Texas already asking courts to allow them to jail doctors for providing emergency abortions. The American Civil…
Scarlett McNally, a professor and orthopaedic surgeon, highlights several issues in the healthcare system, particularly in the NHS. These issues include backlogs, overworked staff, lack of time, and administrative burdens on doctors. She argues that introducing administrative roles like doctors’ assistants could help doctors use their time more productively. McNally suggests that more support staff…
Scientists at Rice University have developed a noninvasive method to monitor gene expression in the brain using a simple blood test. The research team engineered a unique class of molecules known as “released markers of activity” (RMAs), which can be used to measure gene expression through a blood test, allowing scientists to study brain development,…
A recent study published in Nature Mental Health investigates whether nicotine-related beliefs influence brain processes in a dose-dependent manner. Researchers examine the influence of perceived nicotine dose on the human brain, using nicotine as a test case. The study finds that beliefs about nicotine strength can elicit dose-dependent responses in specific areas of the brain,…
Advocating for yourself when diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer is crucial. Janet Shomaker’s experience with the diagnosis and treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer highlights the importance of being “responsibly selfish” and taking control of your treatment plan, while allowing friends and family to support you. Cancer experts emphasize the need to learn from trusted sources,…
New data from Mayo Clinic shows a low rate of pulmonary aspiration during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists. Researchers analyzed 4134 procedures and found only two definite cases of pulmonary aspiration, resulting in a cumulative incidence of 4.8 per 10,000 procedures. Both cases occurred under monitored anesthesia care and the patients…
A study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention and Health found that people on a predominantly plant-based or vegetarian diet have a 39% lower risk of getting COVID-19 infection compared to omnivores. The severity of the infection was also less in those on a vegetarian diet. The study included 702 adult volunteers and showed…
1800 hospitals in Uttar Pradesh have received notices for violating fire safety norms. These notices come as part of efforts to ensure that all healthcare facilities in the state follow proper fire safety measures. The state government is taking this issue seriously and has initiated actions to address the violations. This is important for the…
