A real-time tracking system reveals a 15% increase in suspected opioid overdose deaths and a 29% rise in naloxone rescue attempts by EMS since March, coinciding with the pandemic's peak. The System for Opioid Overdose Surveillance (SOS) helps first responders target their efforts and provides critical data for public health authorities.
A new study creates a detailed portrait of the immune response in pancreatic cancer, highlighting individual differences and pointing to the need for tailored treatments. The research identifies a potential biomarker, TIGIT, that may be targeted by future therapies.
A research team discovered molecular processes in kidney cells that attract and feed COVID-19, making them a target for potential therapies. The study identified networks of molecules that result in higher levels of ACE2, a protein on the surface of kidney cells that aids in virus entry and activation.
A new staging system called STAR-CAP has been developed to predict outcomes and inform treatment decisions for men with non-metastatic prostate cancer. The system, which uses patient, tumor, and outcome data from nearly 20,000 patients, has been validated and shows strong prognostic power.
Researchers have developed a portable DNA sequencing technology to detect tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid, allowing for rapid and reliable monitoring of high-grade gliomas. This approach overcomes traditional barriers to diagnosing and treating pediatric brain cancer, offering a non-invasive alternative to invasive surgeries.
A new research letter found that clinicians gave more patients temporary mechanical pumps under the new policy, moving them up the transplant list. This could lead to a higher likelihood of prioritizing male patients over females.
Children with chronic kidney disease experience prolonged hospital stays (30% longer) and increased hospital expenses ($8,755 vs. $5,016). They also have a higher risk of in-hospital mortality, with a 50% increase compared to other chronic conditions.
Researchers studied aortic dissections in pregnant women, finding 19% associated with pregnancy and increased risk of Type A dissections. The study highlights the importance of careful monitoring of cardiac conditions during pregnancy.
The Affordable Care Act is facing an uncertain future due to the national election and a pending Supreme Court case. A panel of national experts will discuss the law's origins, impacts, and potential future at a free online event on Oct. 15.
Three Michigan nursing homes successfully limited COVID-19 spread through advance planning, universal testing, and connection with Michigan Medicine. Proactive testing of asymptomatic residents and timely test results played a crucial role in containing the outbreak.
A new poll shows that over half of older adults take two or more non-prescription drugs or supplements, and two in ten take five or more prescription medications. Many are unaware of the importance of comprehensive medication reviews, which can identify potential interactions and help save money. The poll suggests opportunities for pro...
A new study found that orphan drug costs for children with rare diseases have increased by 65% over five years, with families facing significantly higher out-of-pocket expenses. The top three drugs driving the increase are used to boost height in children with growth hormone deficiency and are prescribed off-label for other conditions.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that the baroreflex, a neural response to changes in tension, may be contributing to high blood pressure in some rats. The team observed that the baroreflex appeared to switch on and off for extended periods of time, which can predict hypertension in these animals.
Researchers used high-throughput screening to identify small molecules that confer protection against environmental stressors in mouse skin cells. These compounds may have potential as therapeutic agents for improving health and longevity.
A new study published in Transplantation found that organ transplant recipients are at a higher risk of death from COVID-19 due to the use of hydroxychloroquine treatment. The study examined data from COVID-19 positive adult solid organ transplant recipients and non-transplant patients matched by age, race, and hospital admission status.
A new study found that cardiac arrest is common in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, with poor survival rates despite CPR efforts. The study, led by Michigan Medicine researchers, analyzed data from 68 US hospitals and found that patients admitted to ICUs for COVID-19 had a 14% risk of cardiac arrest within two weeks.
A new international study found that ECMO significantly improves survival rates for critically ill COVID-19 patients. The study analyzed data from over 200 hospitals worldwide and showed that ECMO can be a life-saving option for those who are failing ventilators and other care.
A new observational study reveals that COVID-19 patients with elevated suPAR levels are more likely to develop kidney injury and require dialysis. High suPAR levels were found in nearly three times the number of severe COVID-19 patients compared to healthy individuals.
A new paper suggests three strategies to address the COVID-19 surgery backlog, including expanding telemedicine services and providing transparent surgical billing. By adopting these solutions, hospitals can efficiently work through their backlogs and improve patient outcomes.
A new study provides a framework for guideline developers to offer specific guidance on right-sizing care, including when to start and stop treatments or screening. The recommendations are tailored for adult primary care and aim to reduce unnecessary testing and treatment, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
The National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 56% of people over 50 felt isolated from others in June 2022, more than double the 2018 rate. Technology and social interactions with neighbors helped alleviate loneliness.
A team of researchers has discovered a novel approach to combat HIV using an antibiotic molecule called concanamycin A. The compound inhibits the Nef protein, allowing cytotoxic T lymphocytes to recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells. This breakthrough offers new hope for a potential cure for HIV by combining with existing treatments.
A study found that children from families with lower education levels are more likely to have their personal information transferred to third parties, despite federal laws prohibiting the practice. The research suggests that social and economic factors influence which children are at greater risk for these violations.
A genome-wide association study identified specific genetic regions associated with SCAD, which also predict the risk of SCAD among individuals with fibromuscular dysplasia. The findings suggest a shared genetic basis for migraine headache and SCAD, highlighting the need for further research into its clinical implications.
A new study found that tumor cells outcompete T cells for the amino acid methionine, impairing its function. Supplementing methionine can restore T cell function, suggesting a potential target for immunotherapy against more cancers.
A $2.3 million NIH grant will train community health workers in research best practices to engage underserved communities in clinical research. The project aims to address four main issues: standardized education, culturally relevant training, accessibility, and empowering community health workers as peer mentors.
Researchers have developed first-in-class inhibitors of the NSD1 protein, a key enzyme linked to several types of cancer. The lead compound, BT5, showed promising activity in leukemia cells with the NUP98-NSD1 chromosomal translocation.
Researchers found that exposure-based therapy was more effective in reducing symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), while stress-reduction therapy showed better results for those with lower brain activation in certain areas. The study aims to develop a personalized treatment approach for OCD, which may help improve therapy ou...
A new investigational therapy has shown to prevent the onset of Dravet syndrome symptoms in a mouse model, increasing gene expression up to 100 percent in neurons. The treatment uses an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) that is reversible and non-invasive.
A new study from Michigan Medicine shows that over half of hospitalized COVID-19 patients received antibiotics soon after arrival, despite only 3.5% having both virus and bacterial infection. Faster testing and understanding infection risk factors could help reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and harm.
Researchers have used single-cell RNA sequencing to profile transcriptome-level changes in response to DNA damage across individual cancer cells. The study found three distinct groups of genes activated in response to chemotherapy, revealing new insights into why some cancer cells survive while others die.
Primary care providers face increasing workload with limited time due to insurance, EMR systems, and COVID-19. Many have reduced clinical schedules or switched to hospital medicine to manage workload.
Nearly one in four people aged 50-80 rely on mail delivery for at least one medication, with 29% receiving all their medications via mail. This reliance is largely driven by insurance requirements and cost savings.
A new study found that nearly three-quarters of older adults with dementia have filled prescriptions for medicines not designed for dementia, posing special risks. Antidepressants, opioids, and other drugs were commonly prescribed, often without addressing the underlying issues, and may even worsen cognitive symptoms.
Telehealth visits have skyrocketed for older Americans, with a significant increase in comfort levels and reduced privacy concerns. However, not all older adults see virtual care as an adequate substitute for in-person care, and some still lack experience or access to video conferencing tools.
A new study reveals that half of those who have opened a health savings account haven't put money into it in the past year. Those with lower levels of education and health insurance literacy are less likely to open or contribute to an HSA.
Researchers discovered that simultaneously targeting two energy-production pathways within cancer cells can help overcome the effects of a cancer-causing mutation in DIPG. In mouse models, inhibiting both pathways at once significantly improved survival rates compared to targeting each pathway individually.
A new study finds that oxygen therapy can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the lungs, contributing to lung injury. The researchers used mice and found that high concentrations of oxygen led to an increase in oxygen-tolerant bacteria, which are more likely to cause infections.
Researchers found that up to one-third of physicians ordered thyroid ultrasounds without a clear reason supported by clinical guidelines. The study suggests clearer guidelines could help reduce low-risk thyroid cancer cases.
Researchers developed an algorithm to monitor high blood sugar in COVID-19 patients, reducing secondary infections and kidney issues. The tool identifies risk categories based on hyperglycemia severity, insulin resistance and inflammatory markers.
A team of researchers at Michigan Medicine developed a guide to help oncologists navigate difficult conversations with patients due to the pandemic. The guide provides three core communication strategies and examples of language that can be used to respond empathetically, addressing concerns around risk, delays, and changes in treatment.
A new study by Michigan Medicine researchers documents how hospitals reacted to the pandemic and found that most implemented a 'no visitors' policy, but some allowed exceptions for end-of-life visits. ICU teams also shifted to telephones and video chats to connect with families.
Researchers found that targeting purine metabolism can disrupt DNA repair and increase sensitivity to radiation, offering a new approach to overcome resistance. A clinical trial is planned to test the effectiveness of an FDA-approved drug in human patients.
A national cost-sharing cap on insulin can help reduce the financial burden on families of children and young adults with type 1 diabetes. The study found that approximately 60% of patients would benefit from a $25 cap, with average savings of almost $480 per year.
Research reveals a complex interaction between bacteria and their viruses in the gut, where some bacteria can resist infection while others remain susceptible. The study suggests that beneficially altering the gut microbiome through bacterial viruses could offer a new treatment for disease.
A new study explores patients' views on hospital fundraising practices, finding that certain strategies cause concerns. Hospitals can show appreciation to donors through nicer hospital rooms, expedited appointments, or providing doctors' cell phone numbers, while avoiding wealth screening and sharing patient names without permission.
A new study reveals that middle-aged Americans have worse health than their English counterparts, particularly among the poor. The difference in health between rich and poor is much larger in the US, with even top-income earners showing higher rates of diabetes and mental health conditions.
A single dose of the drug tocilizumab was found to reduce mortality by 45% and increase the likelihood of patients leaving the hospital or being off a ventilator within a month. However, this benefit came with an increased risk of additional infection.
A new poll finds that over 80% of Americans over 50 experience at least one form of everyday ageism, which is linked to poor mental and physical health. Despite this, most older adults have positive attitudes towards aging, including increased comfort with themselves and a strong sense of purpose.
A new study found that Michigan's Medicaid expansion program significantly improved health outcomes for the most vulnerable residents, including those with extremely low incomes and chronic health conditions. The program also saw improvements in health among participants of all ages, backgrounds, and geographic regions.