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Science News Archive May 2016 - Page 32


Page 32 of 38

Improvements to online health information can help reduce barriers to care for pancreatic cancer

A new study found that online information about pancreatic cancer is often written at a reading level beyond the sixth grade, making it inaccessible to the general population. The research highlights the need for accurate and understandable health information to empower patients in making informed decisions about their care.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 5, 2016

Climate change may contribute to rising rates of chronic kidney disease

Research suggests that climate change and resulting water shortages are linked to an increase in chronic kidney disease caused by dehydration and heat stress. The study found that rural hot communities are disproportionately affected, with risks increasing for cognitive dysfunction, malnutrition, and other conditions.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 5, 2016

Testing non-breast cancer genes in high-risk women leaves more questions than answers

A new study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's Abramson Cancer Center found that testing non-breast cancer genes in high-risk women does not add clinical benefit. The study analyzed a large panel of genes and found that many variants were of uncertain significance, adding complexity to genetic counseling.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 5, 2016

Type 2 diabetes drug trials unnecessarily exclude women

Research reveals that type 2 diabetes drug trials frequently exclude women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or may become pregnant without clear justification. The criteria most often excluded women who were currently pregnant or breastfeeding, but more than 50 studies excluded all women of childbearing potential.

SourcePenn State·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 5, 2016

Research collaboration IDs serum biomarkers that predict preclinical IBD development and complications

Using clinical data from over 7 million US armed forces members, researchers identified patients with Crohn's disease and found that specific antimicrobial antibodies in their serum samples were associated with increased risk of complications. These biomarkers could potentially predict IBD development and inform preventive strategies.