Researchers estimate 8 million people in the US have less than half of normal kidney function, a treatable condition. Chronic kidney disease is strongly associated with older age and non-Hispanic whites, raising concerns about minority populations' higher risk of kidney failure
A new study suggests that high levels of inflammatory protein CRP are strongly associated with an increased risk of ischemic heart disease. The research found that patients taking beta blockers and statins had less inflammation, indicating that treating inflammation may play a crucial role in preventing heart disease.
A large randomized trial found no improvement in cognitive function among postmenopausal women with coronary disease after four years of hormone replacement therapy. The study provides no evidence regarding the effect of estrogen-only therapy on cognition, contradicting some previous studies that showed an improvement in younger women
Patients who received outpatient cardiology care had lower two-year mortality rates compared to those without. Concurrent care by cardiologists and primary care physicians may improve outcomes.
The study found that median survival times for Alzheimer's patients vary significantly depending on the age at diagnosis, ranging from nearly 9 years for those diagnosed at 65 to approximately 3 years for those diagnosed at 90. Additionally, researchers reported an average time of 2.8 years between symptom onset and diagnosis.
Researchers found that high levels of C-reactive protein and low albumin are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients. The study, which followed over 1,000 patients for four months, found that these proteins can identify patients at high risk before heart events occur.
A new model developed by Emory University researchers suggests that targeted smallpox vaccinations could be an effective intervention against deliberate attacks. The study found that rapid response and targeted vaccination strategies can significantly reduce the spread of smallpox, particularly when pre-existing immunity is considered.
The program aims to seed China with genetic expertise, focusing on medical genetics and responsible use of genetic research. Trainees will receive instruction in genetic epidemiology and biostatistics, as well as opportunities for postdoctoral positions or graduate studies.
The UNC Conte Center will conduct four interrelated studies using distinct research methods to identify critical brain events triggering the development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. The center aims to explain how certain behavioral and neurobiological factors transform normal individuals into those with schizophrenia.
A new Center for Health Disparities Solutions will bring together resources from Johns Hopkins and Morgan State University to conduct research, training, and interventions to address health disparities. The center plans to educate participants on conducting research on disparities and establish connections with healthcare advocacy groups.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that 20% of mammogram-detected breast cancers are in situ lesions with unknown aggressiveness. The research highlights the need for further understanding of DCIS to identify which cases may progress to invasive cancer.
A new study reveals that six to 10 minutes of vigorous exercise per class can significantly improve adolescents' risk profiles, with drops in systolic and diastolic pressures. The study found that exercise-only groups had lower body fat and blood pressure than control groups.
A long-term study of hormone therapy in postmenopausal women with heart disease found no reduction in heart attack risk and increased blood clot risk. The therapy also showed a higher risk of gallbladder disease requiring surgery.
A Canadian debate over for-profit hospitals has been informed by a study showing these facilities have significantly higher mortality rates compared to non-profit hospitals. The analysis of 38 million patients found that the profit motive leads to reduced staffing and limited care, resulting in increased mortality.
Research from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found significant increases in obesity rates among older children and adolescents in Brazil, China, and the US between 1991 and 2017. The study highlights the growing global burden of nutritional problems and calls for revised nutrition programs to address energy excesses.
Three exceptional researchers have been awarded the Young Minds in CNS Award for their innovative work on residual symptoms in bipolar disorder, serotonin receptors in anxiety disorders, and thalamic neurochemistry in schizophrenia. The $20,000 award will support career development and attendance at international congresses.
A study by the University of California, San Diego Cancer Center found that the percentage of smoke-free workplaces increased from 35% to over 93%, while nearly half of adult smokers lived in smoke-free homes. The study highlights the effectiveness of clean air legislation and education in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke.
Researchers found a 16% increased risk of death for blacks compared to whites with comparable treatment, which narrowed to 7% after adjusting for other causes. The disparity was eliminated in most cancers, except for breast and two rare types.
A new UCSF study found that older men with higher testosterone levels performed better on tests of cognition, including concentration, memory, and attention. However, the researchers emphasize that the study only examined natural testosterone levels and did not prove the benefits of testosterone supplements for cognitive health.
Researchers found that managed care is associated with improved integration of inpatient and outpatient care, leading to lower hospitalization rates for chronic conditions. The study analyzed California trends and found a strong association between patient access ratings and reduced hospital admissions.
A long-term follow-up study of over 800 postmenopausal women found that stopping hormone replacement therapy resumes bone loss at a rate similar to those who never took the drugs. The study showed that while bone mass increased in the first 36 months after starting hormone replacement therapy, there was little gain after that.
Researchers analyzed data from people who received a 60-day antibiotic regimen after exposure to potentially contaminated mail and handling facilities. They found that twice as many people may have contracted inhalational anthrax without receiving the treatment, suggesting the risk is very small.
Research suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help prevent chronic wounds, such as pressure ulcers and venous leg ulcers, in elderly female patients. Studies have shown a 35% lower risk of developing these wounds among HRT recipients.
A functional polymorphism within the m-opioid receptor gene has been linked to an increased risk of substance abuse, including alcohol and other substances. The study found that individuals with this genetic variation were more likely to develop addiction and engage in risky behavior.
A new study finds that raloxifene, an osteoporosis medication, reduces breast cancer risk by 76% in postmenopausal women with high estrogen levels. Women with low estrogen levels receive no reduction in risk.
A new UCSF study reveals that the KSHV epidemic in San Francisco gay men occurred before the HIV epidemic, and was linked to oral intercourse. The study found a steady prevalence of KSHV infection among gay men from 1978 to 1995, despite a significant decline in unprotected anal intercourse.
Researchers analyzed daily weather and mortality data for 11 eastern US cities, finding that mortality risk increased with temperature extremes. Cities in the North were more sensitive to heat, while Southern cities were more vulnerable to cold temperatures.
A new non-invasive technique using modified breast pumps to collect breast fluid samples shows promise in predicting breast cancer risk. Women with normal cells in their fluid are 30% more likely to develop cancer, while those with abnormal cells are twice as likely.
A US study of 2,481 heart disease patients found that treatment did not lower mortality rates despite reducing depression and boosting social support. Researchers hope to analyze data further to understand why the treatment failed to benefit patients.
A study of 12,055 women found that children with recommended vitamin D supplements had a reduced risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The researchers suggest that health workers ensure all infants receive adequate vitamin D to prevent the condition.
Researchers developed a new algorithm called TwoDay, which uses vaginal dampness as a predictor of fertility. Women can reduce pregnancy risk by avoiding unprotected sex for 2 days after noticing vaginal dampness.
The center investigates factors that predispose elderly patients to hospitalizations due to medication errors, as well as sociological and organizational causes of medication errors among physicians. Its research focuses on reducing internal bleeding and kidney failure caused by medication errors.
A large study found that antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may reduce the risk of heart attacks in smokers by 65%. The study also suggests that SSRIs may work by thinning blood and preventing clotting, similar to aspirin.
Players of the game are more likely to call 911 or see a doctor in case of an actual heart attack. The most interactive version shows the strongest gains, shifting intentions towards quick action and improved understanding of symptoms.
A third of U.S. adolescents suffer some form of dating violence, with most instances being psychological abuse. The study found that one in five adolescents reported only psychologic violence and about one in 10 reported physical violence.
Research reveals US boys are reaching puberty earlier than in past years, with average ages of pubic hair growth and genital development being significantly lower. This could have implications for testicular cancer risk, sex education, and psychosocial challenges.
Researchers found no significant differences in sexual development between children fed cow milk and soy formulas, despite concerns over phytoestrogens. The study, spanning nearly three decades, suggests long-term exposure to soy-based infant formula may not have a 'feminizing' effect on children.
A five-year research project investigates the quality of life of older adult long-term cancer survivors, revealing that while cancer can affect their identity and relationships, it does not fundamentally change who they are. Many survivors report positive family dynamics and hope for the future after treatment.
A new study found that living in poorer neighborhoods increases the likelihood of developing coronary heart disease, with a 70-90% higher risk for whites and 30-50% for blacks. The study controlled for individual factors but still showed a significant link between neighborhood quality and heart disease risk.
Researchers found that women hospitalized for heart disease can benefit from nurse-managed relapse prevention programs, which teach coping strategies and provide social support. The programs have been shown to be feasible and well-accepted by both patients and healthcare providers.
A new study by UCSF/SFVAMC researchers found that mammography is equally effective in detecting breast cancer in women with and without a family history. The study analyzed data from over 389,000 women and showed that mammography detects nearly 85% of cancers in women aged 50-69, regardless of family history.
The university will support its new Clinical Research Scholars Program, which aims to improve patient care quality through translational research. The program will teach physicians and researchers essential skills in biostatistics, clinical epidemiology, and study design.
A study examining 700 fifty-year-olds born between 1943 and 1947 found that those whose mothers starved during early pregnancy were three times more likely to develop heart disease. The researchers also discovered that the effects depend on the timing of maternal starvation during gestation.
A study published in Heart found that children born to mothers who starved during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy were three times more likely to develop coronary heart disease as adults. They also had higher blood pressure, weighed more, and a higher adverse cholesterol profile.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that 7% of healthy North Carolina schoolchildren already have three risk factors for heart disease and type II diabetes. Obesity is the sole significant predictor of these risk factors, with obese children 53 times more likely to develop insulin resistance syndrome.
The University of California, San Francisco strongly rejected claims made by a company that attempted to block publication of an important AIDS research study. The study found no evidence of clinical benefit for the drug HIV-1 Immunogen in boosting the immune system of patients with HIV-1.
A large randomized trial evaluating a compound intended to boost the immune response of HIV patients showed no effect on slowing disease progression. The study, led by UCSF and Harvard researchers, defied the sponsor's attempt to block publication, affirming the University's right to publish unfavorable or neutral research findings.
A new study finds that black men are 33% more likely to develop hip osteoarthritis than white men, while black women are twice as likely to develop the condition. Weight disparities account for comparable differences in women.
A large study found nearly 12% of high school students experienced severe dating violence, with female victims more likely to report poor mental health and suicide attempts. Male perpetrators also faced negative effects, including poor physical health and dissatisfaction with life.
Researchers found scores of state programs offering financial incentives to attract primary-care practitioners to medically under-served areas. These programs have contributed significantly to the US healthcare safety net, with over 1,300 physicians serving in needy areas.
A review of patients treated with NIPPV found mortality rates were 28.6% higher in the clinical setting compared to randomized trials. The authors recommend developing practice guidelines to optimize NIPPV use. Dr. Sheldon Magder comments on the limitations of relying heavily on randomized trial findings in clinical settings.
Researchers at the University of Washington School of Dentistry found no link between periodontal disease and chronic coronary heart disease. Despite shared risk factors, their analysis of over 8,000 people showed only a slight connection.
A new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill suggests that current PSA screening strategies should be changed. Testing men at ages 40 and 45, and then every two years after age 50, may prevent more deaths than waiting until age 50.
A team of researchers found that radiologists prefer different images for evaluating various breast tissue abnormalities, requiring new computer programs for optimal results. The technology holds great promise in finding breast cancer earlier, but optimizing images for different tasks is crucial.
A recent study published in JAMA found that babies born as little as one week prematurely are at increased risk of dying, especially from asphyxia and infection. Mild prematurity was defined as 34 through 36 completed weeks' gestation, while moderate prematurity was defined as 32 through 34 completed weeks' gestation.
Researchers have identified three candidate regions on chromosomes 5q, 7q, and 19q that may contain genes influencing prostate cancer aggressiveness. These regions are associated with a higher Gleason score, indicating poor differentiation of tumor cells and increased risk of metastasis.
Researchers refute earlier research suggesting high triglyceride levels increase heart disease risk in men. In a new study, triglyceride measurements were found to be no help in predicting heart disease in men, unlike women where it was a good predictor of risk of heart attack and death.
Dr. Yoav Horn founded the West Bank Cancer Program in 1978, helping to establish two oncology treatment centers and train Palestinian physicians. The program improved early cancer treatment and saved lives, according to data from a computerized registry of over 7,000 patient records.
A large clinical trial is underway at UCSF to study a combination drug therapy for osteoporosis, using recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-84) and alendronate. The trial aims to combine agents that speed up bone formation and resorption with those that slow down resorption, resulting in a net gain of bone strength.
A new study reveals that even in countries with universal healthcare, there are significant restrictions on prescription drug accessibility for the elderly. The research found that countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK have varying levels of outpatient pharmaceutical plans, but often come with high costs.