A new study published in CMAJ found that sedentary time increases the risk of death for middle-aged and older people who are frail and inactive. However, this association was not observed among nonfrail adults who were inactive. The study suggests that physicians should stress the harms of inactivity with patients to encourage movement.
A new study published in CMAJ found that people who survive a stroke or mini-stroke without early complications have an increased risk of death and stroke for at least 5 years following the initial event. Researchers recommend long-term management of modifiable risks, such as high blood pressure and physical activity, to reduce this risk.
A commentary in CMAJ argues that a two-streamed structure is necessary to keep patients safe and support research into the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. This structure would provide incentives for research, educational resources for healthcare practitioners, and reduce risk to patients.
A systematic review of 37 studies found a link between artificial sweetener consumption and higher risks of weight gain, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. The evidence suggests that artificial sweeteners may have negative effects on metabolism and gut bacteria, although the evidence is conflicting.
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that patients experiencing delayed emergency surgery are at a higher risk of death and have longer hospital stays. The delays were primarily caused by staff and operating room unavailability, highlighting the need for spare capacity to ensure timely access to care.
New research found a link between reduced tariffs on high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and higher caloric sweetener intake in Canada. The study suggests that trade agreements like NAFTA may contribute to increased exposure to unhealthy food items, particularly those containing HFCS.
Dr. Matthew Stanbrook argues that Health Canada's proposed changes are a step forward but need further action to protect consumers. The new regulations aim to hold nonprescription drugs and natural health products to the same standards, but direct evidence is needed to determine risk.
A phase 1 randomized controlled trial found an Ebola virus disease vaccine developed in Canada to be well-tolerated and effective, with high antibodies present six months after immunization. The vaccine showed no safety concerns and was well-received by participants.
A study of 10 high-income countries found that prescription drug costs varied by more than 600% across different primary care medicines. The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, highlights differences in drug prices among countries with universal healthcare.
Research found midpelvic operative vaginal deliveries associated with 80% higher severe complications for babies, compared to cesarean delivery. The study also revealed five- to ten-fold higher rates of birth trauma in midpelvic forceps and vacuum deliveries.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that marijuana legalization will jeopardize young people's health due to its toxic effects on brain development. The journal calls for restrictions on potency and quantity to minimize risk, citing evidence that the human brain continues to mature until age 25.
First Nations and Inuit babies were hospitalized at twice the rate of non-Indigenous infants for preventable illnesses like respiratory diseases and infections. This disparity highlights substantial unmet needs in Indigenous infant disease prevention and medical care.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found a direct link between outdoor air temperature and the risk of gestational diabetes. Women exposed to extremely cold temperatures had a 4.6% prevalence, increasing to 7.7% for hot temperatures
A study published in CMAJ found that adding a modest 2% income-based deductible to British Columbia's public drug plan did not decrease prescription medication use among seniors. However, it reduced the number of people who qualified for public subsidy and decreased public drug spending.
The study found substantial benefits from fetal reduction, including lower rates of preterm birth and serious illness. However, the benefits were more pronounced among fertility-treated pregnancies.
A new guideline aims to reduce opioid use for chronic non-cancer pain by optimizing non-opioid therapy, restricting dosing, and tapering opioids. The guideline is focused on preventing harm and reducing addiction, with the goal of addressing Canada's opioid crisis.
A new study published in CMAJ found that many common antibiotics increase the risk of miscarriage, with a 60% to two-fold increased risk. Erythromycin and nitrofurantoin were not associated with an increased risk.
A study published in CMAJ found that team-based primary care practices in Quebec had lower rates of emergency department visits and death among older or chronically ill patients after hospital discharge. The researchers attributed this to better coordination of care, which reduces hospital readmission and death.
The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends against routine screening for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) in low-risk adults due to lack of direct evidence on benefits and harms. The guideline aims to focus healthcare resources on individuals at elevated risk, where treatment is proven to be beneficial.
A large study found no link between azithromycin and ventricular arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat that can be life-threatening. Compared to amoxicillin, azithromycin was associated with a lower risk of this condition.
Researchers found a 30% increased risk of pneumonia in patients with Alzheimer's disease taking benzodiazepines, particularly within the first 30 days of treatment. The study suggests that benzodiazepines' sedative nature may increase the risk of pneumonia by increasing saliva or food aspiration into the lungs.
A new study published in CMAJ found that people living in regions with better access to preventive healthcare had lower rates of cardiac events. Regions with high cardiovascular event rates were associated with lower dietary intake and higher obesity rates.
A study published in CMAJ found that Canadian-born children and youth are at a higher risk of unintentional gun injury compared to immigrant children and youth. The study identified certain subgroups of immigrants as being at higher risk of assault-related injury, particularly those from Africa and Central America.
In response to the Trump travel ban, academics must maintain international collaboration in medical science. Strengthening ties with US colleagues is crucial to prevent weakening US science and supporting colleagues facing a hostile administration.
A new study found that women who undergo failed fertility therapy have a higher risk of developing long-term cardiovascular disease, including stroke and heart failure. The study of 28,442 women showed a 19% increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events in those who did not conceive.
A new study found that Zika virus was as commonly confirmed as dengue in Canadian travellers returning from the Americas and Caribbean, but more severe. The study revealed 10% of cases with severe complications, including Guillain-Barré syndrome and congenital infection.
The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends that physicians provide brief information and advice to prevent or treat tobacco smoking in children and youth. Research shows that raising the minimum legal age for access to tobacco can significantly reduce smoking rates among young people.
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that publicly funding essential medicines for all Canadians could save over $4 billion a year. The researchers identified a list of 117 essential medicines that accounted for 44% of all prescriptions filled at retail pharmacies in 2015.
Physical activity is most important lifestyle change to reduce breast cancer recurrence risk, with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day recommended. Avoiding weight gain and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
A new study finds that heavy snowfall and longer duration are associated with a higher risk of hospital admission for heart attack in men. The study suggests shovelling may be the main mechanism linking snowfall to MI, particularly after heavy snowfalls.
A new study found that providing medical assistance in dying in Canada may not increase healthcare costs and could even reduce spending by up to $138.8 million. The researchers used data from the Netherlands and Belgium, where medically assisted dying is legal, to estimate the impact on Canadian healthcare spending.
Pediatric tuberculosis remains a concern in Canada, particularly among Aboriginal communities and children from endemic countries. Effective treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach, including clinicians, nurses, and social workers.
Sepsis is a life-threatening organ malfunction caused by infection, associated with significant hospital deaths. Recognizing sepsis as a separate cause can lead to improved hygiene, nutrition, vaccination rates, and quality of life for those affected.
A study found that only 1 in 6 news stories included quotes from independent commenters, and many lacked relevant clinical and academic expertise. The authors suggest developing strategies to improve the quality and independence of comments in health news stories.
Researchers found that liposomal lidocaine combined with parental video instruction and oral sucrose significantly reduces acute pain during vaccinations. The study involved 352 healthy infants who received scheduled vaccinations, with the best results seen for those using lidocaine cream consistently.
A new study finds that inflammatory marker AGP better predicts mortality than IL-6, offering insights for personalized medicine. Researchers used data from 1997 to 2015 on 6545 adults aged 45-69, revealing the potential for inflammation markers to predict disease risk and death.
Using statins like lovastatin and simvastatin may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with dabigatran etexilate, a stroke prevention medication. Researchers found an increased risk of bleeding requiring hospital admission or emergency department visits with these statin combinations.
A new study examines the effectiveness of duloxetine for stress urinary incontinence and finds that while it lessens incontinence frequency, adverse effects and suicidality are more common with duloxetine compared to a placebo.
Researchers found that patients with pulmonary function testing had a lower risk of hospitalization and death from COPD. The study suggests that increasing testing for suspected cases could improve patient care and reduce healthcare costs.
The use of prescription opioids in Canada has increased steadily over the past 20 years, leading to a rise in overdose deaths and addiction. Experts propose several interventions, including guidelines for prescribing, limited dosages, electronic monitoring systems, and access to evidence-based treatment.
A study in CMAJ found that closure of planned obstetric services in BC did not affect rates of adverse outcomes or serious adverse outcomes during labor and delivery. Higher-risk deliveries occurred at larger hospitals before closures took place, explaining the lack of impact on event rates.
A study published in CMAJ found that telemedicine, including text messaging and web portals, can effectively manage diabetes by monitoring blood sugar levels and motivating patients. The use of interactive formats such as web portals or text messaging was most effective in controlling HbA1C levels.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that a new health accord for Canada should enable wholesale change in the federal-provincial relationship. The journal calls for flexible approach to allow for health system innovation and federal funding to improve the overall healthcare system without prespecified targets.
The article argues that Canada's public health care system has deteriorated, with private clinics filling gaps. CMAJ calls for government action to improve the system, including cutting wait lists, focusing on innovation, and ensuring universal access.
A Canadian study found that patients with hip fractures have higher mortality rates at smaller hospitals compared to teaching hospitals. The risk of death after surgery was also higher at medium community hospitals, possibly due to limited resources.
A new study published in CMAJ found no correlation between the day of the week elective surgery is performed and patient risk of death. The researchers analyzed data from 402,899 procedures over 10 years, including variations in surgeon experience and post-surgical care on weekends.
A Taiwanese study of almost 1.4 million births found that pregnant women with maternal chronic diseases have a higher risk of giving birth to babies with severe congenital heart disease. The study also found a slightly increased risk of mild congenital heart disease in offspring of mothers with diabetes and other chronic conditions.
A new Belgian study shows an increase in euthanasia cases since legalization, with notable rises among people with non-cancer diagnoses and those over 80. Thorough evaluation and monitoring are crucial in these complex situations.
Canada's high youth and indigenous suicide rates warrant a comprehensive national strategy. The World Health Organization has seen declines in countries with government-led programs, suggesting a similar approach could work here.
A new review provides a comprehensive guide for diagnosing and managing food allergies in children and adults. The study highlights the importance of clinical history, diagnostic testing, and supervised oral food challenges to accurately diagnose and treat food allergies.