Researchers at Michigan Medicine warn that hospital cutbacks during the current recession may compromise quality and safety. Hospitals are reducing staff, scrapping renovation plans, and cutting back on technology to cope with declining profits and lost health insurance, threatening patient interactions and robust nurse-to-patient ratios.
A recent study by Michigan physicians found that specialized eyeglass lenses containing prisms can alleviate or eliminate post-concussive symptoms in patients with traumatic brain injury. The treatment targets vertical heterophoria, a binocular vision condition causing headaches, dizziness, anxiety, and other symptoms.
Researchers found neural tissue has imbalanced levels of proteins, specifically torsinA and torsinB, which may explain why certain diseases affect specific organs. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of how genetic mutations impact different cell types.
Researchers identified a key receptor in the brain that influences serotonin-related antidepressants, providing a potential new target for treatment. The discovery could lead to more effective and targeted treatments for depression and anxiety with fewer side effects.
A new study found that certain neighborhoods in Fulton County, Ga. have higher incidence of cardiac arrest and lower bystander CPR rates, with the potential to save an additional 15 lives per year. Targeted CPR training could be a key strategy to reverse stagnant survival rates.
Researchers at the University of Michigan's Congenital Heart Center led a groundbreaking trial on shunts used to direct blood flow to the lungs, improving outcomes for kids born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. The study found that one type of shunt was more effective over the first year, but its long-term impact is still uncertain.
A new study found that gene fusions are a specific 'bad actor' in prostate cancer and should be targeted by treatments, rather than the androgen receptor. The research suggests that blocking these fusions can prevent normal prostate cell development, allowing cancer to develop.
A new U-M study shows that advanced radiation techniques can treat head and neck cancer effectively while reducing long-term swallowing complications. The study found that up to 88% of patients were cancer-free after three years, with only one patient still requiring a feeding tube.
Severely obese adolescents may benefit from bariatric surgery, but primary care physicians are divided on the issue. Many endorse monitored weight loss programs before surgery, but concerns over long-term effects persist.
A recent study by University of Michigan researchers found that obese children have higher odds of being bullied, regardless of their social skills, academic achievement, or family income. The study suggests that interventions to address bullying in schools are urgently needed.
A study found that sulforaphane from broccoli limits breast cancer stem cells in mice and cell cultures, preventing tumor growth. Researchers believe eliminating these cells is key to controlling cancer, suggesting a potential new treatment approach.
A U-M study reveals that socio-economic factors, particularly race and age, significantly influence the use of alternative therapies like acupuncture and biofeedback in chronic pain patients. As people age, they are more likely to seek alternative therapies to manage chronic pain.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that levels of a key type of immune cell can predict which head and neck cancer tumors are most likely to respond to chemotherapy and radiation. The study suggests a way to target treatments to avoid unnecessary side effects, with potential benefits for HPV-negative patients.
Researchers found that combining telephone counseling with a daily written diet plan significantly increased fruit and vegetable intake among participants. The study suggests that personalized support can motivate individuals to make healthier food choices.
A genetic test identifies a specific gene variant that affects how statins control both colorectal cancer and cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that statins have more benefit for reducing both colorectal cancer risk and cholesterol in the gene's long version.
A University of Michigan Health System study found black men with chronic pain experience more severe symptoms, leading to increased disability and depression. The study highlights the need for a culturally appropriate approach to caring for black men with chronic pain.
A study of 740 medical interns found that those with long work hours, medical errors, and a history of major depression were more likely to develop depressive symptoms. The study also identified a genetic variant associated with an increased risk of depression in high-stress situations.
The Southwest Oncology Group's operating grants have been renewed for six years, with a total expected to exceed $120 million over the period. The renewal supports comparative effectiveness research and will primarily fund member institutions nationwide.
A new study by the University of Michigan Health System shows that 20% of Americans born between 1966-1985 were obese by age 20-29, a significant increase from previous generations. This trend is expected to worsen racial disparities in health, with black Americans already experiencing a higher burden of obesity-related diseases.
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System found that doctors who own a surgery center operate on average twice as many patients as those without such financial ties. This increased caseload may be due to lowered treatment thresholds, suggesting potential conflicts of interest among physician owners.
A study of 3,746 elderly Americans found that over one-fourth lacked the capacity to make end-of-life medical decisions. Those with advance directives, however, received care in line with their wishes most of the time. The study emphasizes the importance of preparing oneself and family for complex medical decisions at the end of life.
A new study from the University of Michigan found that mastectomy patients are less likely to receive radiation therapy than those who had lumpectomy. Despite medical guidelines recommending radiation after mastectomy for certain patients, only 78% received it, compared to 95% of lumpectomy patients.
Researchers have identified BanLec, a lectin in bananas, as an effective anti-HIV agent that can inhibit HIV infection by binding to the sugar-rich HIV-1 envelope protein. This discovery could lead to the development of new microcides to prevent sexual transmission of HIV.
A University of Michigan study found that nearly 16.8% of eligible emergency visits from 2000-2006 involved potentially inappropriate medications for patients aged 65 and older. The top five most common PIMs were promethazine, ketorolac, propoxyphene, meperidine, and diphenhydramine.
Researchers identify a new reservoir for hidden HIV-infected cells in bone marrow, which can serve as a factory for new infections. The discovery opens up new possibilities for treating HIV, particularly for individuals who have been taking anti-viral drugs for their entire life.
A new study published in Medical Care found that high hospital occupancy is associated with a 5.6% increased risk of patient death, while nurse staffing levels can decrease this risk by 6%. Weekend admissions also increase the risk of death by 7.5%, while seasonal flu raises it by 11.7%.
Jennifer C. Hirsch, M.D., M.S., receives the Nina Starr Braunwald award for her work developing an assessment tool for infants' sensory and motor skills following congenital heart defects surgery. The award supports research and education for women in cardiac surgery.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that freezing breast tumors using cryoablation kills the cancer and generates an immune response that helps stop its spread, leading to improved survival rates. The rapid freezing technique appears to be more effective than slower techniques in killing metastases and improving survival.
A University of Michigan study found that untreated visual disorders in the elderly are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease. Early treatment of these problems may delay the onset of dementia, but many elderly individuals lack adequate vision coverage.
Researchers at U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center found a third protein, TIN2, that overrides Fbx4 by binding to TRF1, stabilizing it and keeping telomere length in control. This finding could lead to developing a drug to block Fbx4, impacting all cancer types.
Current tobacco users with HPV-positive tumors are five times more likely to experience cancer recurrence than non-users. Researchers suggest that current or former tobacco users may need a more aggressive treatment regimen.
Heart specialists at Michigan Medicine call for clarity on beta blocker prescribing before surgery. Previous studies have differing methods and results, making it hard to determine who should get beta blockers and at what dosage.
A survey by the University of Michigan Medical School found that 28% of doctors and their diabetic patients do not agree on the most important health conditions to manage. Diabetics were more likely to prioritize symptoms such as pain and depression, while doctors focused on diabetes and hypertension.
Researchers found that the benefits of diagnosing MCAD-related disorders early outweigh the costs of false positives, including stress and dietary restrictions. The study concluded that newborn screening remains cost-effective even after accounting for quality-of-life losses associated with false positives.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that increased body fat in boys is associated with a later onset of puberty. The study examined 401 boys from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and found that higher BMI trajectories were linked to delayed puberty.
A new study finds that fibrocytes, a type of immune cell, are present at higher frequencies in patients with Graves' disease, leading to scarring and inflammation in the orbit. This discovery may lead to new treatments targeting scarring or fibrosis.
Researchers identified a biomarker called elafin that can be measured in a blood test to diagnose bone marrow transplant patients' skin rashes and predict GVHD risk. The test enables doctors to adjust therapy based on patient risk levels, potentially reducing side effects.
A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that most breast cancer surgeons' practices do not meet quality care standards. Only about one-third of surgeons reported offering patient education resources and connecting patients with peers.
A U-M study reveals that a specific receptor, CXCR1, triggers growth of breast cancer stem cells in response to inflammation and tissue damage. Researchers found that blocking this receptor using an existing anti-inflammatory drug repertaxin kills breast cancer stem cells and prevents metastasis in mice.
A new study found that 25% of Arab Americans in Greater Detroit experienced abuse due to race or religion since 9/11, leading to increased psychological distress and poorer perceptions of health. The study highlights the need for partnerships with community organizations to encourage mental health services among this population.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine has found that dendritic cells, a type of immune cell, are more active in patients with severe COPD, leading to increased inflammation and disease progression. This research suggests that targeting dendritic cells may be a potential strategy for preventing COPD from worsening.
A new study suggests that combining celebrex with low-dose aspirin may reduce the effectiveness of aspirin in preventing heart attack and stroke. Researchers found that celebrex interferes with aspirin's ability to block blood clots, particularly when taken in low doses.
A landmark study confirms that chemotherapy with tamoxifen improves survival rates for postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. A second study identifies a subset of patients who may not benefit from chemotherapy despite being at higher risk, suggesting a potential need to reassess treatment guidelines.
Researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that compounds derived from turmeric and pepper can decrease stem cells while having no effect on normal differentiated cells. This suggests a potential role for curcumin and piperine in preventing breast cancer by targeting stem cells.
According to a University of Michigan report, physicians can safely skip pre-surgery stress tests and beta blockers for patients with stable heart disease. This change could save lives and reduce costs by 50-70%. The new guidelines recommend reserving these medications for high-risk patients undergoing complicated surgeries.
A study by University of Michigan and Harvard researchers found that despite declines in smoking rates, the US population is experiencing a rise in obesity, which is overtaking the health benefits gained from quitting smoking. The study suggests that if current trends continue, nearly half of the population will be obese by 2020.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine found that only 7.6% of cardiac arrest victims survive, with factors such as restored pulse and bystander CPR significantly improving survival rates. Experts emphasize the need for increased awareness and use of devices to shock the heart to change these dismal survival rates.
A U-M study found that only 6% of high-risk women were likely to take tamoxifen, a drug proven to prevent breast cancer, due to concerns over side effects. The decision aid provided tailored information about the drug's risks and benefits, improving understanding but not changing behavior.
A study found that patients with a specific gene variant are twice as likely to develop congestive heart failure, suggesting a genetic link between vitamin D action and heart disease. The research analyzed the genetic profiles of 617 subjects and identified a critical enzyme associated with the development of congestive heart failure.
A University of Michigan study found that women researchers are less likely than men to secure major funding for their careers, with only 19% of women attaining an R01 grant within 10 years. The study suggests that family demands and pressures to contribute to clinical work may be hindering women's success in research careers.