A new benefit-based copay system calculates individualized copays based on clinical benefits and risk groups, aiming to increase adherence and reduce financial barriers. The approach could lead to lower copays for sickest patients and make prescription drug coverage more accessible.
A genetic mutation in the CCR5 gene provides protection against HIV infection, slowing the spread of AIDS in African populations. Studies suggest that this mutation may be more common in European populations due to historical epidemics.
Researchers at U-M discovered nearly 200 genes with varying expression profiles in normal and malignant prostate tissue. The study identified new clinical biomarkers, hepsin and pim-1, which were correlated with patient prognosis and could lead to new diagnostic tests.
A unique experiment studying chemical activity in human brains while experiencing sustained pain revealed long-suspected connections between pain-dampening changes in brain chemistry and sensory/emotional responses. The findings may help researchers better understand prolonged pain and find more effective ways to relieve it.
A new University of Michigan study confirms that the utilization of prescription drugs, especially newly introduced ones, is the biggest reason for double-digit increases in overall prescription drug costs. Managed care insurance plans saw a 35% jump in prescription costs due to their members' rush on existing and new drugs.
A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology finds that family caregiving for elderly patients with cancer translates to an average yearly cost of $1,200 per patient and about $1 billion nationally. Informal care is often overlooked when estimating total costs of cancer treatment.
A new study found that deaf children who receive cochlear implants at a young age have better speech recognition skills than those who wait longer. The research suggests that early implantation is crucial for language development and can improve communication skills in children with hearing impairments.
Researchers have successfully analyzed diffusion MRI images to distinguish between dead and living brain tumor cells in animals and humans. This technique allows for the assessment of therapy effects without relying on measurable changes in tumor size, enabling earlier detection of treatment response.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that elderly women with disabilities receive significantly fewer hours of informal home care than their male counterparts. Despite being the traditional family caregivers, these women often go unmet due to sociocultural factors.
A new study suggests that increasing folic acid and vitamin B12 intake can lower homocysteine levels in the blood, which are associated with a higher risk of heart disease. The researchers estimate that this intervention could lead to significant cost savings and potentially increase life expectancy.
A study found that a common newborn hearing test may give false positives in as many as 35% of cases, leading to unnecessary worry and costs for follow-up tests. In contrast, a more complex test gave normal-hearing babies a passing grade nearly all the time.
A new trial found that a radioactive compound called MIBG can not only image but also help kill neuroblastoma tumors. In the Phase I trial, 11 children with advanced neuroblastoma had positive responses and few side effects when treated with MIBG combined with chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant.
Researchers have developed a new screening process to detect human parvovirus B19 in blood plasma, ensuring its safety for transfusions. The discovery has already led to improvements in plasma processing and the voluntary recall of contaminated lots.
A pilot study found that an implanted 'brain pacemaker' for epilepsy may cause mild increases in sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is disrupted during sleep. Researchers are investigating ways to fine-tune the device to reduce these effects and improve treatment outcomes.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests that low-risk women who have had previous cesarean deliveries may benefit from trial of labor, which can reduce maternal fevers and need for transfusion or hysterectomy, while increasing small risk to the baby
The U-M program has been shown to boost the use of key therapies in hospitals, with 98% of eligible patients receiving clot-busting drugs and over 94% on beta blockers. The program's success is due to its multi-faceted approach, including care standards, educational materials, reminders, and patient empowerment.
Women with BRCA 1 or 2 mutations may not have to fear radiation therapy due to no increased incidence of side effects. The study suggests similar recurrence rates and survival after five years, with additional treatment keeping cancer in check.
A study published in Cancer Research reveals that a gene called RhoC GTPase contributes to the development of an aggressive and deadly form of breast cancer. The research found that overexpression of this gene in normal cells leads to rapid tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that a significant proportion of people with epilepsy may also have undiagnosed sleep apnea, which can disrupt brain function and exacerbate symptoms. The study suggests that addressing sleep apnea through lifestyle and medical interventions may help improve seizure control and quality of...
A new study led by the University of Michigan found that breast reconstruction during mastectomy significantly improves emotional, social, and functional well-being. Women who opted for simultaneous reconstruction experienced a larger psychological boost than those who waited for reconstructive surgery later.
Research at the University of Michigan found a 30% higher concentration of signaling cells in people with bipolar disorder, which could explain and treat manic depression. The discovery highlights the disorder's genetic and biological roots, offering new avenues for understanding and treatment.
A new study found that silver-coated catheters could reduce urinary tract infections by 47% and bacteremia by 44%. The cost savings could be substantial, with estimated average savings of $4 per patient catheterized.
A new $50,000 grant will establish professional arts programs inside healthcare institutions to support the healing process. The Society for the Arts in Healthcare will develop training programs and provide guidance to help organizations integrate arts into their environments.
A University of Michigan study suggests that patients with undiagnosed sleep apnea may not always describe their symptoms as 'sleepy', but rather experience fatigue, tiredness, or lack of energy. Laboratory sleep tests revealed interrupted breathing patterns in 73% of the study's subjects.
A new study from Michigan Medicine shows that color-coded labels on supermarket shelves can guide shoppers to healthier food choices, particularly among African Americans. The program may lower the risk of diet-related health problems like heart disease.
A new study published in Neurology demonstrates that oxcarbazepine is safe and effective enough to be used alone in patients with partial epilepsy who do not respond to other anti-epileptic drugs. The results show that 12% of patients were seizure-free during a four-month trial, offering new hope for those struggling with the condition.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that smokers who receive a diabetes diagnosis are more likely to quit smoking, but some still continue despite the increased health risks. The study analyzed data from over 1,600 middle-aged adults and confirmed past findings that certain demographics, such as African American or ...
A new study shows Bexxar produced tumor shrinkage in 97% of patients with advanced-stage, low-grade non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Most patients achieved complete remission, with no sign of cancer, and molecular remissions lasting up to three years.
A large UM study found that mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) reduces the risk of losing a transplanted kidney due to chronic failure better than azathioprine (AZA). MMF protects against kidney loss even when acute rejection prevention effects are eliminated, with nearly 86% of MMF-treated kidneys surviving four years.
A new study from Michigan Medicine found that three-quarters of US states cover alternative therapies like chiropractic care and hypnosis for low-income children through Medicaid. The study suggests that more research is needed on the quality of care and outcomes of these treatments, particularly when combined with conventional medicine.
A new study documents the increase in Ritalin-type stimulant drugs and Prozac-type antidepressants prescribed to children, raising concerns about diagnosis and treatment. Thirty percent of children on SSRIs also took stimulants, highlighting the need for further research on safety and effectiveness.
Researchers found that modulating the cholinergic system significantly impacts schizophrenia symptoms, with potential therapeutic benefits for positive and negative symptoms. The study challenges decades-long dominance of the dopaminergic system in schizophrenia research.
A new medical imaging approach using 3D color Doppler ultrasound shows promise for better cancer detection and recognition in breast cancer patients. The technique uses sound waves and computerized equipment to visualize blood flow in the vessels around suspicious areas, distinguishing between tumors and benign masses.
A survey of nearly 600 primary care physicians found that most rely mostly on referral and counseling for depressed kids, but some use new antidepressants like Prozac. The study highlights the need for more research and training on recognizing and treating childhood depression.
A new study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that physically demanding work significantly increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight. The authors recommend improving national maternity leave policies to provide workers with pay, health benefits, and job security.
A new study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that women who smoke during pregnancy are 50-70% more likely to give birth to a baby with cleft lip or palate. The risk increases with the number of cigarettes smoked daily, even after controlling for factors like mother's race, age, and education level.
A new research center at the University of Michigan will study new ways to see cancer using sophisticated medical imaging technology, including MRI and PET scans. The center aims to improve diagnosis and treatment by spotting important molecular events during cancer growth, potentially laying the groundwork for new therapies.
Researchers are conducting a national study to determine if a vaccine similar to the one given to children to prevent chicken pox will prevent shingles in older adults. The study hopes to enroll 37,000 people over 60 with no prior shingles diagnosis, aiming to boost their immunity and prevent the shingles virus from returning.
A University of Michigan professor and attorney conclude that amending the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is necessary to protect patients' rights and physician autonomy. ERISA preempts state regulation of managed care organizations, allowing them to avoid liability for medical decisions.
Researchers suggest that a significant majority of people with type 2 diabetes derive little additional benefit from annual eye screening. Instead, every other year or even every third year screening is nearly as beneficial and more cost-effective. This finding could lead to a shift in recommendations for optimal screening intervals.
A new trial found that lowering copper levels with a cheap compound called tetrathiomolybdate stabilized tumors and prevented their growth in five out of six patients. The copper strategy targets angiogenesis, a process allowing tumors to expand beyond a cluster of cells. Researchers hope it could contribute to cancer eradication in th...
A University of Michigan-led research team is launching a two-year study to examine whether prisoners of war experience 'post-traumatic growth' after their traumatic experiences. The study aims to determine if POWs develop positive changes in self-perception, interpersonal relationships, and philosophy of life compared to control groups.
A new University of Michigan study found that nerve tests for carpal tunnel syndrome are not reliable and can produce different results depending on who performs the test. The study suggests using a continuous scale to evaluate test results rather than absolute cutoff points.
Researchers found that misdiagnosed electrocardiographic artifact, caused by body movement or poor contact, led to unnecessary procedures like pacemaker implants and heart catheterization. The study highlights the need for improved training in recognizing artifact and increased awareness among physicians.
The U-M research will systematically study the proteins made by tumor cells, genes that instruct them, and subtle differences among proteins from different types of tumors. The goal is to develop rapid-analysis technology to detect cancer early and predict treatment response.
A recent survey by researchers at the University of Michigan Health System found that patients (70%) and physicians (83%) want to communicate via e-mail, but only 14% and 27% are currently using it. The study aims to facilitate electronic communication between patients and their doctors.
The new guidelines chart the rapid evolution of bypass surgery techniques and provide a framework for physicians to evaluate risks and benefits with their patients. The report categorizes heart patients into groups that predict how well bypass will work for them based on various factors.