A new calculator predicts the impact of different treatment combinations on blood pressure, kidney function, and serum potassium levels. The calculator provides personalized estimates based on patient characteristics, which can help clinicians overcome uncertainty and prescribe effective therapies.
A meta-analysis of four randomised controlled trials involving 2,944 adults with intracerebral haemorrhage found that intensive blood pressure-lowering reduced recurrent stroke risk by 38%. The treatment strategy was consistent across all studies, with no observed increase in serious adverse events.
Recent studies show finerenone preserves kidney function, reduces cardiovascular risk and improves survival across a broader range of CKD patients. Finerenone also reduces kidney failure, heart failure or cardiovascular death risk by 23-24% in non-diabetic patients.
A scalable digital mental health care model and anti-stigma campaigns reduced depression, self-harm, and suicide risks among Indian adolescents. The ARTEMIS project reached over 70,000 adolescents and showed significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, and behavior toward mental health.
A global trial involving 1,670 patients with intracerebral haemorrhage found that treatment with a single pill combination of three low-dose blood pressure medicines reduced the risk of another stroke by 39%. The study showed significant benefits in reducing major cardiovascular events and improving blood pressure control.
A new study by The George Institute for Global Health found that 71% of grocery store baby food products in the US are classified as ultra-processed foods. These products tend to be cheap, convenient and hyper-palatable but lack essential nutrients.
A comprehensive analysis of 70,000 participants across 10 trials found that SGLT2 inhibitors reduced the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression by 38% and slowed eGFR decline by 51%. The treatment was beneficial for all levels of kidney function and albuminuria levels, particularly in reducing hospitalizations.
A new machine learning model predicts heart disease risk in women by analyzing mammograms, offering a 'two-for-one' screening approach that combines breast and cardiovascular screenings. The model performs comparable accuracy to traditional risk calculators without requiring extensive clinical data.
A new online calculator helps doctors determine the most effective treatment plan for each patient based on their blood pressure needs. By categorizing treatments as low, moderate, or high intensity, the tool enables personalized treatment plans and potentially improves patient outcomes.
A recent study evaluated the content of 39,763 US grocery store products and found that 19% contain synthetic food dyes. Products marketed to children were more likely to have these dyes, which are linked to behavioral problems and poor health outcomes.
Researchers found that halving vital sign and neurological function checks in low-risk patients after acute ischemic stroke treatment does not compromise care or recovery. The approach also frees up nursing time and intensive care resources, improving hospital capacity.
Researchers found that GLP-1 receptor agonists reduced the risk of kidney failure by 16% and worsening of kidney function by 22%. The combined reduction in risk was 19%, showing a clear benefit on kidney protection. This study expands current knowledge about this class of drugs, highlighting their role in treating patients with chronic...
A novel low-dose 3-in-1 blood pressure pill (GMRx2) significantly reduces blood pressure in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. After six months treatment, the GMRx2 group achieved a 5.8mmHg lower systolic blood pressure compared to standard care.
A recent study found that 60 percent of infant and toddler foods sold in top US grocery chains fail to meet nutritional recommendations, while none meet World Health Organization guidelines. The study also exposed widespread misleading marketing practices, including prohibited claims on packaging.
Researchers found that combining sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and chronic kidney disease progression by 11% and 33%, respectively. The study suggests using this combination to further improve outcomes in patients with typ...
A new study reveals that switching to environmentally friendly food alternatives can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from household groceries. The analysis found that making like-for-like product swaps within sub-categories of foods could lead to emission reductions of up to 26% or 71%.
A new study found that very early blood pressure lowering treatment can improve outcomes for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, but worsen outcomes for those with ischemic stroke. Rapid diagnosis of the type of stroke is crucial in harnessing the benefits of this treatment.
Significantly reducing trans fat levels in the Nigerian food supply can prevent approximately 67,000 cases of heart disease within ten years. The policy also generates net savings, with total healthcare savings estimated at around $520 million over a population's lifetime.
A meta-analysis of 11 trials involving 78,607 patients found a 9% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and a 14% reduction in cardiovascular death with SGLT2 inhibitors. The analysis showed consistent effects across patient groups and subgroups.
Researchers discovered changes to blood vessels in the brain that can increase stroke and dementia risk are common in people with heart conditions. The study confirms heart disease as a main cause of these changes, highlighting the importance of imaging tests to guide safer treatment choices.
A global collaboration of researchers recommends the use of potassium-enriched salt substitutes in hypertension treatment guidelines due to their health benefits and long-term patient compliance. The shift could help address spiraling rates of uncontrolled high blood pressure and reduce preventable deaths.
A new meta-analysis found that intravenous fluid therapy using balanced solutions can reduce the risk of in-hospital death in critically ill patients by four percent. Balanced solutions are more closely matched to human blood chemistry than commonly used saline, and may be associated with lower mortality rates.
The Kenyan government and food industry could save billions USD by implementing trans fat limits, which would also reduce heart disease cases and prevent deaths. Experts urge food manufacturers to prioritize consumer health by removing trans fats from products now.
New research from The George Institute for Global Health suggests applying Google's nutrition advertising policy in the US market could reduce products eligible for online marketing to children, leading to significant health gains. Only 18% of products would be allowed under this policy.
A new combination treatment for brain hemorrhage significantly improves survival rates and reduces disability. The INTERACT3 study shows a Care Bundle of readily available treatments can improve outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where most cases occur.
A global study has found that greater gender equality is associated with longer life expectancy for both women and men. The study, published in the lead up to International Women's Day, suggests that addressing longstanding gender inequality can help extend longevity for all genders.
A large international study suggests that social and economic disadvantage may explain the higher risk of dementia in women. Women, particularly in low- to lower-middle income countries, have a higher likelihood of developing dementia due to factors such as limited education and occupational opportunities.
A study analyzing 11,167 patients found a 30% lower risk of cardiovascular complications in women compared to men. The researchers argue that other factors contribute to the observed 'male disadvantage' in COVID-19 severity.
A large stroke trial found that intensive blood pressure lowering after clot removal compromises the return of blood flow to the affected area, leading to more brain tissue deterioration and major disability. The study suggests that this increasingly common treatment strategy should be avoided in clinical practice.
A randomized clinical trial found that applying topical antibiotics to the upper digestive tract can improve survival rates in mechanically ventilated intensive care patients. The study, published in JAMA, also showed a significant reduction in new hospital-acquired infections.
A global study of over 28,000 people found that lowering blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of dementia. The researchers analyzed five double-blind placebo-controlled trials and discovered a broad linear relationship between blood pressure reduction and lower dementia risk.
A large randomized controlled trial found that treatment with methylprednisolone reduces the risk of kidney function loss and failure in patients with IgA nephropathy. The study's results suggest a lower dose regimen may be effective while minimizing side effects.
New research reveals that women with strokes often exhibit generalized symptoms such as confusion and weakness, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses. Women also face worse post-stroke outcomes, including increased institutionalization rates, compared to men.
A study of 273,240 women found that life events influencing estrogen levels may be linked to a higher risk of dementia. Ever having been pregnant or having had an abortion was associated with a lower risk, while early or late menopause increased the risk.
A new analysis reveals that salt substitutes are not only effective in reducing stroke risk but also cost-saving, with costs outweighing the cost of the intervention. The study found a 14% reduction in stroke risk and 13% reduction in strokes and heart attacks combined.
A new study found that women's health research is disproportionately focused on reproductive years, particularly pregnancy, leaving few articles on major causes of illness and death. Non-communicable diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease, are poorly covered in women's health publications.
Research found that individuals who have previously taken cholesterol- or blood pressure-lowering medications before a heart attack were less likely to adhere to these medications afterwards. Despite the proven benefits, fewer than one-third of patients continued taking their prescribed tablets for over a year after hospitalization.
A new dialysis system can produce sterile, medical grade water in the home, providing an affordable option for patients with kidney failure. The Ellen Medical Devices Point-of-Care system has been tested and found suitable for use in peritoneal dialysis fluid production.
A large clinical trial involving over 5,000 patients found that commonly used saline solution is as effective at keeping people alive and their organs functioning as more expensive balanced solutions. The study's results provide greater certainty about the safety and benefits of saline solution for treatment.
A new study has found that consuming more dairy fat may actually be beneficial for heart health, challenging traditional dietary guidelines. The research analyzed data from over 43,000 people and found that those with higher intakes of dairy fat had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those with low intakes.
A study of over half a million people found that certain mid-life cardiovascular risk factors are associated with dementia in both men and women. However, the relationship between blood pressure and dementia risk varies by sex, with higher blood pressure linked to increased risk in women.
A new study by The George Institute for Global Health found that replacing regular salt with a reduced-sodium, added-potassium salt substitute significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in rural Indian hypertensive patients. The intervention was shown to be an effective and low-cost way to control blood pressure in these communities.
An international survey found that messaging emphasizing health system burden, personal risks, and financial motivations was most effective in encouraging smokers to quit. The research highlighted the importance of tailored communication prioritizing COVID-related health risk to support public health efforts during the pandemic.
A new study from The George Institute for Global Health found that countries are wasting resources by treating only one aspect of cardiovascular disease, rather than looking at the big picture. The researchers discovered a higher risk of CVD in lower educated and non-employed people, as well as an underuse of medicines in those at high...
A nationwide ban on industrial trans-fatty acids in Australia's food supply could prevent around 2,000 deaths and 10,000 heart attacks over the first ten years, and up to 42,000 deaths from heart disease over a lifetime. The estimated cost of implementing this legislative measure was A$22 million during the first ten years.
A major multinational trial found that fast-tracking dialysis for critically ill patients with severe acute kidney injury did not improve outcomes. The study included over 3,000 patients in 168 hospitals across 15 countries and suggested a more conservative approach to treatment may be warranted.
A new study by The George Institute for Global Health found that prediabetes is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Researchers analyzed over 10 million people and found that early detection and proper treatment can have significant benefits in reducing the burden of these conditions.
A global study found broad support for alcohol warning labels in seven countries, including Australia (68%) and New Zealand (67%). The study suggests that governments should introduce clear and visible health warnings on alcohol products to improve public health.
A new study published in Journal of the American Heart Association has found that women and men experience overlapping and distinct symptoms when presenting with acute coronary syndrome. Women are more likely to present with fatigue, pain between the shoulder blades, and shortness of breath, while both sexes often experience chest pain.
A nationwide intervention to replace regular salt with potassium-enriched salt substitutes in China could prevent nearly half a million cardiovascular deaths per year. The blood pressure lowering effects of salt substitution were estimated to prevent around 460,000 cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths each year.