Most non-VA hospitals now require flu vaccination, with nearly 70% of institutions mandating the shot. In contrast, only 4% of VA hospitals have a similar requirement. Vaccination mandates are more effective in reaching high vaccination rates among healthcare workers.
The poll found that only about half of people aged 50 to 80 have set up an account on a secure online access site, or 'patient portal,' offered by their health care provider. Despite the benefits of patient portals, many older adults are uncomfortable with electronic interactions and prefer telephone contact with their providers.
A new online tool takes into account personalized risks and benefits of lung cancer screening, while also allowing for a range of patient preferences. The tool is designed to help doctors fine-tune their advice to patients, taking into account individual attitudes about looking for problems and dealing with the consequences.
A novel long non-coding RNA, ARLNC1, controls signals from the androgen receptor, a key player in prostate cancer. Knocking down this RNA led to cancer cell death, suggesting it as a potential target for future therapies.
Triple-negative breast cancer patients have fewer effective treatments due to high levels of immune suppressor cells. Researchers identified a metabolic pathway linking glycolysis and C/EBP-beta expression, which supports suppressor cell growth and reduces patient outcomes.
A new study reveals how a cancer gene influences cell signaling, leading to aggressive cancer growth. The researchers found that the 'swallowing' of certain molecules affects tumor suppressor genes and proliferation.
A new study found that over half of older adults (56%) have a high risk of OSA, but only 8% have been tested, highlighting the need for increased evaluation and treatment.
A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) could be a cost-effective option for patients who fail to get relief from two other types of treatment, such as antidepressant medications and talk therapy. ECT emerged as a cost-effective choice for patients with treatment-resistant depression.
A new study surveyed 620 people representing 331 camps in the US and Canada, finding both pros and cons of screen time at camp. While some children enjoyed technology activities, others were preoccupied with media interactions, leading to distraction and decreased engagement in camp activities.
A study from Michigan Medicine discovered that blocking a gene called FOXM1 can reduce the development of fibroblasts and fibrosis in IPF patients. The research used siomycin, an experimental compound designed to block FOXM1, which prevented fibrosis in mice with lung disease.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine has found that over one-third of cirrhosis cases are related to alcohol consumption, with women being disproportionately affected. The study reveals that patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis have higher healthcare costs and poorer health outcomes compared to those without the condition.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine's Kellogg Eye Center report cases of uveal effusions and eye inflammation caused by immunotherapy treatments. Ophthalmologists emphasize the importance of referring patients with eye problems to an ophthalmologist, while oncologists should ask about medications that may be causing symptoms.
A new poll finds that older adults are generally satisfied with their sex lives, but health-related issues, lack of communication, and age-related changes can affect intimacy. Nearly two-thirds of older adults are interested in sex, and 73% say they're satisfied with their current sex life.
A new analysis highlights that undocumented people in certain states may get more medical help due to the current administration's effort to give states more flexibility with their health care spending. States like Florida and Texas have already received permission to increase funding for safety-net hospitals, leading to a 50-70% rise ...
A new study found that curiosity is a significant factor in determining academic achievement, with curious children performing similarly to their higher-income peers. This research has implications for families, educators, and policymakers looking to address the achievement gap.
A new study finds that older adults with severe hearing loss who use hearing aids are less likely to visit the hospital or emergency room, despite high costs of the devices themselves. The association is significant, even considering factors such as income and education level.
A new study found that low total testosterone levels are associated with chronic disease in men of all ages, including those under 40. The research team studied the relationship between testosterone, age, and chronic disease prevalence, using a population sample from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
A new mouse study reveals that environmental pollutants like dioxin and cigarette smoke interact with the HLA gene variant to cause more severe rheumatoid arthritis. The disease leads to excessive bone destruction through overactive osteoclasts, a process targeted by researchers for potential new treatments.
A recent $5 million NIH grant has funded a research consortium at Michigan Medicine to address firearm-related fatalities among children in the US, known as the second leading cause of death. The five-year effort aims to develop evidence-based solutions through an interdisciplinary group of scientists and stakeholders.
Researchers developed a nanodisc delivery system that combines chemotherapy with immune checkpoint blockers to eliminate tumors in 85% of treated mice. The therapy also showed an excellent response rate of 88% in a challenging model, and no overt side effects were detected.
Researchers have developed a vaccine that can redirect the immune response to prevent allergic symptoms, providing extended relief from peanut allergies. The study shows promise for potential therapy of allergies in humans and may lead to long-lasting suppression of food allergies.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that Medicaid expansion in Michigan did not negatively impact patient outcomes for coronary artery disease procedures. The research used data from 7,558 CABG procedures and 45,183 PCI procedures performed at various hospitals across the state.
Most older adults (4/5) support allowing medical marijuana if recommended by a physician, while 2/3 advocate for more government-sponsored research on its health effects. The poll also reveals conflicting views on pain management, with prescription medications seen as more effective in controlling dosages.
A study by Michigan Medicine and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School found Flint childhood blood lead levels decreased from 11.8% in 2006 to 3.2% in 2016, with a historic low of 1.15 micrograms per deciliter in 2016. A random spike in blood lead levels was also observed between 2010 and 2011.
A new study reveals that residency training takes a significant impact on sleep, physical activity, and mood. Doctors in the pilot study lost 2 hours and 48 minutes of sleep per week due to high workloads and frequent schedule changes.
A new study found that nearly half of women with breast cancer who should undergo genetic testing did not receive it. Genetic counselors were underutilized, with only half of those in the high-risk group receiving counseling before surgery.
A study by Kellogg Eye Center links smaller social connections to reduced likelihoods of cataract surgery in older adults. Adults with few family members had 40% lower odds of receiving the procedure compared to those with three or more family ties.
Researchers discovered that gut bacteria play a role in brain impairment after sepsis, with certain strains associated with neuroinflammation and cognitive difficulties. The study suggests treating gut bacteria may help reduce long-term effects of critical illness.
A retrospective study of patients with laryngeal cancer who underwent radiation treatment found that those with low thyroid hormone levels were more likely to experience fistula formation and prolonged hospital stays. Researchers propose administering a common hormone supplement, levothyroxine, to prevent these complications.
A new genomic classifier score predicts aggressive prostate cancer, potentially changing treatment guidelines. The model integrates gene expression biomarker risk scores into existing risk groups, increasing accuracy and confidence in treatment recommendations.
A new study from the University of Michigan Depression Center finds that a student-led depression awareness program significantly boosts knowledge and attitudes among high school students. The manual for the program, called Peer-to-Peer Depression Awareness Program (P2P), is now available online for schools to use.
Studies analyzing brain activity during sedation, surgical anesthesia, and vegetative states reveal fragmented networks and decreased information integration. Researchers hope to develop better methods for quantifying anesthesia depth and assessing consciousness in patients.
A new poll of older Americans reveals that many see a mismatch between what they need and what their doctors prescribe. The study suggests improving communication could reduce unnecessary tests, screenings, medications, and procedures. Healthcare providers may have more leeway to deny services that hold little value for certain patients.
A new study reveals that nearly one in four PICC placements are made for less than five days, resulting in complications such as blocked lines, infections, blood clots, and serious kidney problems. This raises concerns about the risks associated with short-term IV device use.
Scientists have identified a key protein quality control mechanism in the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and weight. The discovery sheds light on how genetic mutations can lead to severe forms of childhood obesity.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a new CRISPR-Cas9 protein, NmeCas9, that can edit both DNA and RNA with high precision. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutic possibilities for diseases caused by genetic mutations in RNA.
A new study finds that only 18% of children with sickle cell anemia receive daily antibiotics to reduce the risk of deadly infections. The condition affects racial and ethnic minority populations and can lead to serious complications like meningitis or death if left untreated.
A new study reveals that efforts to discourage benzodiazepine use among older adults are showing progress, with prescription rates declining by seven percentage points since 2010. However, many prescriptions are still being written, highlighting the need for continued education and alternative treatments.
A new algorithm provides a comprehensive guide to managing spinal metastases, integrating specialties and offering personalized treatment approaches. The algorithm focuses on spine-specific issues and incorporates popular treatment paths, including surgical decompression and stereotactic body radiotherapy.
A new study reveals how basal cell cancer responds to treatment and offers new ideas for controlling this disease. The researchers found that the relative location of a cell within a tumor can have a big effect on its sensitivity to drug treatment.
Researchers have developed a new therapeutic approach to enhance bone healing by delivering additional Jagged-1 protein at the site of injury. In a study published in npj Regenerative Medicine, rodents treated with Jagged-1 showed improvements in skull and femoral bone injuries, unlike BMPs which caused excessive bone growth.
A new interactive online tool helps breast cancer patients better understand their treatment options, resulting in higher knowledge and preparedness. The tool assesses patients' values and provides a customized bar graphic to guide decision-making.
Researchers analyzed over 500 cases of DIPG and related tumors to find that tumors with histone mutations that haven't invaded surrounding brain tissue have better outcomes. Patients with non-invasive tumors had approximately 4-5 times longer survival rates compared to those with invasive tumors.
A national survey of over 700 adults who helped manage common chronic illnesses found that many wish they could understand their loved one's condition better or get more involved in their care. However, health providers often fail to inform them or involve them in decisions, despite the potential benefits for patient success.
Researchers found a link between PD-L1 expression in antigen presenting cells and clinical response to treatment in melanoma and ovarian cancer patients. This suggests that current biomarkers, such as tumor PD-L1 expression, may not be reliable indicators of immunotherapy efficacy.
A new high-sensitivity troponin (hsTn) assay can measure lower concentrations of troponin, allowing for earlier diagnosis of heart attacks. The test has shown a significant reduction in wait times for emergency department patients, as well as improved patient satisfaction and safety.
Hyperreactive brain networks may contribute to the hypersensitivity of fibromyalgia. Researchers found that patients with fibromyalgia have brain networks primed for rapid responses to minor changes, leading to explosive synchronization.
A new study found that caregivers of children with obesity used more direct statements to restrict their child's eating, unlike mothers of healthy-weight children who relied on indirect comments. This discovery has important implications for practice guidelines and future research.
A new poll suggests that nursing homes should require flu shots for all staff and patients to protect vulnerable patients from serious complications. The majority of respondents (73%) also believe that non-medical staff should be vaccinated, while 71% think visitors should be required to get vaccinated before visiting loved ones.
Researchers have developed a new approach to treating tinnitus by targeting unruly nerve activity in the brain with precisely timed sound and skin stimulation. Human participants reported improved quality of life after four weeks of daily device use, while sham treatment did not produce similar effects.