A team of University of Michigan and Harvard researchers suggests abandoning the one-size-fits-all approach to health insurance by tailoring plans to individuals' specific medical needs. This value-based insurance design (VBID) approach aims to encourage patients to use evidence-based treatments, reducing healthcare costs in the long run.
A new study at the University of Michigan Health System found that obese patients who underwent a procedure called transhiatal esophagectomy had outcomes similar to lean counterparts. The study suggests that the procedure is safe for obese patients, but results may vary in hospitals with lower volumes.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine have discovered a single protein, SH2B1, that plays a crucial role in controlling body weight, responding to insulin and leptin signals, and energy balance. The study found that restoring SH2B1 in brain cells corrects metabolic disorders and improves the brain's ability to regulate eating.
A new national research network, NETT, aims to improve treatment outcomes for neurological emergencies. The network will gather data from patients at multiple hospitals nationwide to test new treatments in real-world settings.
A new study found that breast cancer patients with lower household income and less education are more likely to receive reduced doses of chemotherapy. Severely obese women were four times as likely to receive a reduced dose, while those with less than a high school education were three times as likely.
A University of Michigan study found that women who took control of choosing their breast cancer surgeon were more likely to be treated by high-volume surgeons and at accredited cancer centers. Women with higher education and incomes were also more likely to select their surgeon based on reputation.
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System found that nearly one-third of children having surgery are overweight or obese, with more than half qualifying as obese. This increases their risk of experiencing problems during and after surgery, as well as future health issues such as type II diabetes and breathing problems.
Researchers at U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center and Stanford University have identified a stem cell marker in head and neck tumors, which may help develop targeted therapies. The study found that cells expressing the CD44 marker can grow into new tumors, suggesting a potential target for cancer treatment.
A new study from Michigan Medicine finds significant variation in Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs across states, even with lowest-cost plans. Seniors may face costs differing by thousands of dollars for the same medications, and within a state, the difference can be $10,000 or more.
A new study found that a large number of patients who receive implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) do not benefit from the device, while a simple heart-rhythm test can predict which patients will get life-saving benefit. The study suggests that using this test could spare millions of dollars in costs.
A new report offers specific guidance to help anticipate and lessen homesickness in children. Research shows that 90% of kids feel some level of homesickness, but prevention is key. The report provides tips for parents and doctors to prepare children before separation.
A new study by Michigan Medicine shows that 97% of children with pediatric renovascular hypertension respond positively to surgery, and 70% are cured completely. Surgery can help ease symptoms and improve quality of life for children with this rare but potentially fatal condition.
A new study suggests that blood transfusions during heart bypass surgery may be linked to a higher risk of developing potentially dangerous infections and dying in the first few months after operation. Women are more likely to receive blood transfusions than men, which may explain their increased mortality risk.
A new study reveals that a balance training program focusing on increasing step length and speed is more effective at improving mobility and balance than tai chi. The program resulted in greater improvements in measures such as the timed up and go test and maximal step length test.
Researchers developed a rapid 3D cell-growth technique that produces organized heart muscle tissue capable of generating pulsating forces and reacting to stimulation. The technique uses fibrin gel to support rat cardiac cells, resulting in tissue with significantly better properties than previous methods.
A new study reveals that insomnia and sleep perception can significantly impact alcohol recovery, with patients who overestimate their sleep quality being more likely to relapse. The research suggests addressing sleep disturbances is crucial for effective recovery.
Research from the Flint Men's Health Study found that African-American men with prostate cancer were more likely to report a family history of both diseases among siblings. This increased risk was particularly notable for having a brother diagnosed with prostate cancer and a sister diagnosed with breast cancer, highlighting the importa...
A study from Michigan Medicine found that over half of breast cancer patients who sought a second opinion received a change in their recommended treatment plan. Changes were often made based on reinterpreted imaging results or differing diagnoses, leading to new treatment recommendations.
U-M researchers found that digital mammograms transmitted via satellite to radiologists in Ann Arbor, Mich., resulted in improved delivery of traditional mobile mammography services. The service allowed Native American women to receive timely follow-up care, with 72% of those needing additional images getting tested within three days.
Researchers at University of Michigan confirm fibromyalgia as a real condition characterized by lower pain threshold and associated with genetic factors. Studies using neuroimaging techniques reveal abnormalities in central brain structures and increased neural activity in patients.
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System suggests that hormone therapy may help retain certain memory functions in postmenopausal women. The research found increased brain activity in the prefrontal cortex of participants taking combined estrogen-progestin hormone therapy, compared to those on placebo.
Researchers developed a nanoparticle delivery system that targets brain tumors, allowing for higher doses of drugs to be delivered while minimizing harm to healthy tissue. The technology has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and eliminate common side effects associated with photodynamic therapy.
A new study reveals that a public-designed health insurance plan can be fair and affordable for the uninsured, costing two-thirds of the average cost in California. The plan prioritizes coverage for chronic diseases and basic care, while making trade-offs to avoid high co-pays and deductibles.
Scientists successfully transplanted light-sensing cells into the eyes of mice with retinal degeneration, restoring their visual function. The technique has implications for degenerative eye diseases and suggests that changes in stem cells may be necessary for transplantation to succeed.
Researchers found significant variation between individuals with depression and healthy women, particularly in the mu-opioid system involved in stress and emotions. The study suggests that these differences may predict treatment response, highlighting the need for personalized approaches to depression treatment.
Researchers identified a previously unknown cause of severe kidney disease in children: recessive mutations in the PLCE1 gene. Early diagnosis and treatment may reverse some cases of nephrotic syndrome in infants. The study provides promising results, suggesting that some infants with PLCE1 mutations can respond to steroid treatment.
Researchers found evidence that nitric oxide signaling may be responsible for overproduction in RA patients. The study suggests a new perspective on the disease's cause and could offer insights into other autoimmune diseases.
Researchers tracked brain activity in rats while they tasted water, salt water, and sugar water, finding that a formerly disliked taste became pleasurable when the rats were deprived of salt. This study provides new insights into how the brain processes pleasure and has implications for understanding eating disorders and addiction.
A new study from the University of Michigan finds that the brain chemical dopamine is involved in both pleasure and pain responses, with variations between individuals affecting vulnerability to drug addiction. The research may help explain why some people are more prone to developing addictions during times of stress or chronic pain.
Researchers found that melanocytes use a mechanism called premature senescence to prevent cancer-causing mutations from triggering melanoma. This process involves the endoplasmic reticulum, which senses oncogene activity and triggers a response that stops cell division and prevents tumor growth.
A team of researchers reviews existing research on LDL cholesterol and heart health, concluding that there is no valid evidence to support ultra-low LDL targets. They suggest focusing on statin therapy for high-risk patients regardless of their cholesterol levels.
Researchers analyzed nine trials involving 693 patients and found that treatment with calcium-channel blockers or alpha blockers increased the chances of passing urinary stones by 65%, making these medications an effective alternative to surgery.
A new study found that black patients with bladder cancer are 35 percent more likely to die of the disease than white patients. Black women in particular had more aggressive tumors and lower survival rates compared to white men and women and black men.
A University of Michigan Health System study found that while more small kidney tumors are being detected and treated, the death rate from kidney cancer is not decreasing. The researchers suggest re-examining treatment strategies for patients with small renal masses, as surgery may not be the best option for everyone.
Researchers found that one-third of older adults struggle with bathing, highlighting the need for bathroom safety features and education. The study recommends installing shower curtains instead of glass doors and providing proper instruction on built-in safety features.
Researchers found that men with lower PSA levels after seven months of hormone therapy had a longer survival rate. Patients with undetectable or low PSA levels lived up to 75 months, while those with higher PSA levels survived for 13 months.
A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that Mexican-Americans are more likely to suffer another stroke in the first two years after living through one, and have a significantly higher risk of dying from it. The researchers emphasize the importance of secondary prevention measures for this population.
A new study predicts that the US will spend $2.2 trillion on stroke care over the next 45 years unless preventive measures are taken. The highest costs will be for African American and Latino patients, who suffer strokes at younger ages and receive poorer-quality care.
A new study found that over half of men with lower-risk prostate cancer received aggressive treatment, despite active surveillance being a viable option. Men under 55 were more likely to receive surgery, while those aged 70-74 were more likely to receive radiation.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that two-thirds of pregnant women with full-blown major depression aren
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that managing early pregnancy failures in an office setting is an acceptable option for many women, with lower costs and longer procedures compared to operating room procedures. Women opted for the office procedure reported higher pain levels but no major complications.
Researchers have found a significant association between OCD patients and genetic variations on the SLC1A1 gene, which regulates glutamate flow in brain cells. The study suggests that this gene may be a primary candidate for OCD, potentially leading to improved understanding and treatment of the disorder.
Researchers found three genes over-expressed in rheumatoid arthritis that varied between identical twin pairs, suggesting environmental factors influence gene expression. The discovery provides insights into the variability of disease symptoms and response to treatment.
Researchers found that 90% of patients who survived emergency surgery and hospitalization for aortic dissection would be alive three years later. Those without pre-existing heart and blood vessel problems were more likely to survive, with a quarter having hypertension and nearly 25% having atherosclerosis before their dissection.
A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that women were less likely to benefit from hospitals' quality-improvement measures and received fewer drugs and lifestyle counseling after a heart attack. This disparity led to a higher risk of death within a year, despite overall improved care for both men and women.
A study found that external 'condom' catheters reduced the risk of urinary tract infections by 80% compared to indwelling catheters. The condom catheters were also associated with lower rates of discomfort and pain, making them a more comfortable option for patients.
A new study suggests that expensive heart rhythm treatment LACA is cost-effective for younger patients with certain risk factors, while older patients or those without additional risk factors may not benefit from the procedure. The analysis used computer modeling to compare costs and benefits of LACA versus traditional drug therapy.
William H. Herman suggests that glycosylated hemoglobin test may not be suitable for making diabetes diagnosis, and instead recommends blood glucose tests after a special sugary drink for accurate diagnosis. Population-level studies show how screening can optimize detection of impaired glucose tolerance and prevent diabetes complications.
A new study reveals that both young people and older individuals think older people are happier than themselves, but research shows the opposite is true. The study found that individuals tend to mis-remember their own happiness as youths and overestimate their future happiness in old age.
A 10-year study by U-M researchers found that women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations who underwent breast-conserving surgery and hormonal treatment had lower rates of breast cancer recurrence. Tamoxifen reduced the risk of same-breast recurrence by 58 percent, while oophorectomy lowered the risk even further.