Researchers used gemcitabine and low doses of radiation to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer in 24 patients. Most were able to keep their bladders intact and were cancer-free after four years, with 65% still cancer-free.
A new study by Michigan Medicine suggests that insured individuals are willing to make sacrifices to help cover the costs of the uninsured. When given the opportunity to discuss their concerns and priorities in a group setting, many participants chose to cover both adults and children, with 76% opting for some form of coverage. The res...
Women with vulvodynia process pain differently, exhibiting lower pain tolerance at multiple sites throughout the body. The study suggests a neurological basis for the condition, recommending treatment aimed at central pain processing.
The number of pediatricians in the US has more than doubled since 1978, with a higher concentration in wealthier states. This disparity affects access to care among children in poorer states.
A study found that mice with a hyperactive Wnt10b gene consumed more food but had half the body fat of normal mice. The protein inhibited fat cell development and had contrasting effects on white and brown fat, leading to robust health despite reduced adipose tissue.
A long-term study of 8,000 seniors found that those who cut back on prescription medicines due to cost had significantly worse overall and heart-related health outcomes. The study also showed that patients with depression over age 70 were more likely to experience a worsening of their condition if they cut back on their medications.
A U-M study found that hospitals meeting Leapfrog quality standards for high-risk surgeries can save thousands of lives. Implementing these standards would reduce mortality rates for procedures like open heart surgery and angioplasty.
Researchers discovered Stat3 regulates the inflammatory response in lung tissue, preventing excessive activation and tissue damage. The study suggests enhancing Stat3 activity could lead to new therapeutic drugs for immune-related diseases like COPD.
A study published in Archives of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery found that 52% of employed head and neck cancer patients reported work-related disability after treatment. Chemotherapy, neck surgery, and pain were linked to increased disability risk.
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System found that pulsed dye laser therapy was not effective in treating acne. Researchers compared the changes in acne severity on both sides of the face, with no significant difference between treated and untreated sides.
Researchers developed a simple, pocket-sized risk-prediction tool to calculate the chances of dying within six months for patients after a heart attack or unstable chest pain episode. The tool combines nine variables and has been proven accurate in predicting patient outcomes.
Nearly half of patients prescribed statins fail to fill their prescriptions often enough or stop taking the drug altogether due to high out-of-pocket costs. Co-pay levels above $20 increase the likelihood of non-adherence, with four times more patients stopping medication when co-pays exceed $20 compared to those under $10.
A recent study by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that breast cancer patients who made their own treatment decisions were more likely to choose mastectomies over breast-conserving surgeries. The study also revealed that fewer than a third of women with mastectomies received reconstructive surgery, and those...
Perfusion CT scans can reveal how much blood is present in the brain and how quickly it's moving, helping doctors decide on treatments such as surgery or clotbuster drugs. The technique has shown promise in assessing patients with stroke or carotid artery issues, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers created a virtual model of the human immune system to study M. tuberculosis, a bacterium that causes TB. The computer model revealed key findings on granuloma formation and the immune response, shedding light on why some people fight off infection while others get sick.
Researchers found that antibiotics can alter the gut microbiome, leading to increased lung sensitivity to allergens. This disruption can trigger a hyperactive immune response, producing allergy symptoms or even asthma. The study suggests that maintaining a healthy balance of gut microbes is crucial in regulating the immune system.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that over 5.7 million low-income children experience a transition in their health insurance each year, leading to postponed doctor visits and prescriptions. The study highlights the need for consistent coverage and minimized barriers to ensure these children receive needed care.
Researchers from Michigan Medicine have discovered a protein biomarker and cell-signaling pathway that may aid in the detection and treatment of pancreatic cancer. The study found that a specific protein called CEACAM 1 is elevated in the blood of pancreatic cancer patients, allowing for better differentiation from normal tissue.
A survey of fourth and fifth-grade pupils and their parents found significant discrepancies between reported and actual use of bike helmets and seatbelts. The study emphasizes the need for injury prevention programs targeting both parents and children to address these gaps and reduce child injuries.
A nationwide study found that patients undergoing kidney cancer surgery at high-volume hospitals have a 32% lower risk of dying compared to those at medium- and low-volume hospitals. High-volume hospitals also performed more partial nephrectomies, a procedure with equally effective cancer control.
A recent study found that even health-conscious women are more likely to have had a mammogram or Pap smear than undergone a colonoscopy. Doctors suggest using breast cancer screening appointments as an opportunity to educate women about colorectal cancer risk and increase awareness.
A unique computer system developed at the University of Michigan Health System reduces risks while improving patient care quality and continuity. The Discharge Navigator system automates information transfer, streamlines handoffs, and enhances patient education and satisfaction.
A gene mutation may cause misrouting of proteins in retinal cells, leading to macular degeneration. Research aims to understand the biological function of the gene and its role in fatty acid metabolism.
Researchers found that quality of life for men treated for prostate cancer continues to evolve long-term, with some experiencing improvements and others worsening. Sexual function remains a significant concern for survivors, with reported lower quality of life compared to non-cancerous individuals.
A comprehensive review of hundreds of studies on living wills finds they fail to meet five key criteria for success. The researchers argue that living wills offer a false promise of control over end-of-life treatment and recommend using durable powers of attorneys instead.
A UMHS study found that African-American men with a history of gonorrhea are more likely to develop prostate cancer. The research suggests an inflammatory effect from the bacterial infection may trigger pre-existing cancerous cells to multiply, increasing risk.
A University of Michigan team found that only half of pharmacies in non-white areas had a sufficient supply of opioid painkillers. Pharmacies in wealthier ZIP codes tended to have better supplies, while those in poorer areas were less likely to carry the drugs due to perceived threats of robbery and street value.
A recent multi-center trial has shown cryoablation to be effective in killing cancerous cells in small tumors, offering a promising alternative to traditional surgery for early-stage breast cancer. The study found that the procedure was equally effective for tumors between 1.0 and 1.5 centimeters in diameter, but not larger than 1.5 cm.
A nationwide sample of children with asthma found that 13% of parents still smoke, triggering year-round symptoms. Pediatricians should counsel parents on quitting to improve their children's health.
Researchers have developed a technique called 2D CSI MRS that uses chemical signatures to distinguish between tumor recurrence, normal tissue, and treatment-related changes in the brain. This method has shown significant differences in chemical ratios for recurrent tumors versus treatment-altered tissue.
A University of Michigan study found that most prostate cancer treatment guides overlook key details and favor active treatment over watchful waiting. The researchers recommend complete information on risks and benefits, clear writing styles, and visual elements to engage readers.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that moderately depressed seniors require significantly more hours of care than those without symptoms. If caregivers were paid for their work, the annual cost would be approximately $9 billion, highlighting the impact of depression on seniors and their loved ones.
A family-based self-management intervention aimed at low income adolescents with Type 1 diabetes led to better health and functioning in the short term. The program helped kids eat better and exercise more, resulting in improved physical functioning.
A pilot study from the University of Michigan Health System found insulin pumps to be as effective as injections in controlling blood sugar levels and reducing parental stress. Parents reported lower worry and emotional stress with pump therapy, while those on injections experienced more anxiety.
A study found that babies described as difficult eaters or overeaters are more likely to eat when their mother handles food and feed themselves after receiving a bite. This relationship was not seen in non-problem eater children, suggesting an innate link to social cues.
A three-year study shows that Botox injections significantly improve the voices and quality of life of patients with spasmodic dysphonia. The treatment produces a powerful and sustained improvement in voice-related quality of life, even after repeated injections.
A long-term family study found that toddlers with sleep problems are at a higher risk of becoming teens who smoke, drink or do drugs. The study suggests that early sleep problems may be a predictor for later adolescent substance use.
Researchers found that men with a family history of prostate cancer can accurately assess their lifetime risk and are more likely to use supplements to improve their health. The study also reveals that younger brothers of men with prostate cancer are nearly four times more likely to report using complementary or alternative medicine.
A recent UMHS study found that black men with moderate-grade prostate cancer are 36% less likely to receive treatment than white men. Hispanic men also face disparities in treatment, with 16% fewer chances of receiving definitive therapy compared to white men.
A recent study found that HIPAA compliance severely affected patient participation in long-term outcome studies, with a significant drop from 96.1% to 38.5%. This reduction resulted in a less representative sample of patients, which could bias study results.
A study of 2,800 Medicare patients found that hospitals implementing the ACC's Guidelines Applied in Practice (GAP) Project reduced mortality rates by 25% at 30 days and one year. The project improved care through standardized tests, drugs, and lifestyle advice.
The study found that the UNOS rule change reduced transplant gaming behavior, but the competitive nature of organ allocation still poses a risk. By dividing patients into three status levels and requiring recertification, the new rules have made it more difficult for hospitals to exaggerate their patients' conditions.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that heart attack and angina patients experience difficulties sticking to their medication regimens six months after hospitalization. Forgetfulness, carelessness, and side effects are among the top reasons for non-adherence, affecting up to half of the patients studied.
A recent study found that over half of patients with heart failure could benefit from implanted cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), but Medicare's current guidelines exclude them. ICDs can prevent sudden cardiac death by monitoring heart rhythm and shocking the heart back into a normal pace.
Researchers have confirmed three previously suggested loci and identified two new ones for potential AMD genes on chromosomes 1, 2, 5, 9, 22. The study used high-resolution genome scans to narrow the search for AMD-related genes.
Four new studies expose disparities in children's eye care based on race, income, and insurance status. Minorities and uninsured children are significantly less likely to receive eye exams or corrective lenses than their peers.
Researchers have discovered that low-dose HDAC inhibitors can prevent the production of inflammatory cytokines, reducing cell damage and improving survival rates in mice with GVHD. The study suggests that these drugs may be used to reduce the risk of death, hospitalization, and serious side effects associated with bone marrow transplants.
Patients undergoing complex gastrointestinal surgery at teaching hospitals are less likely to die or experience complications, with death rates under 10% compared to non-teaching hospitals. Higher hospital volumes also lead to fewer prolonged hospital stays, suggesting fewer complications from surgery.
Researchers found that anthrax spores can germinate, reproduce and form new spores in soil samples, defying the long-held belief that they require a host to survive. The study suggests that the deadly pathogen may be more versatile and resilient than initially thought.
HUPO scientists have created a master proteomics database from human blood plasma, which will help answer key questions about protein identification and analysis. The project's long-term goals include identifying all protein constituents of human blood plasma and determining variation across populations.