A study of 145 heart patients found that 74% used complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapy, with 60% using supplements or mind-body techniques. Many patients took prescription medications and CAM substances together, posing a risk of bleeding problems, including gastrointestinal bleeding or surgical complications.
A Michigan Medicine-led study has successfully improved the odds that patients receive life-saving treatments after a heart attack. The study, GAP (Guidelines Applied in Practice), used reminders, checklists, and educational materials to boost adherence to American College of Cardiology guidelines. As a result, hospitals saw significan...
A new study reveals a strong link between children's sleep problems and behavioral issues like hyperactivity and inattention. The research, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that children who snore often are nearly twice as likely to have attention and hyperactivity problems.
University of Michigan scientists have identified a protective mechanism that allows anthrax spores to remain dormant in soil for decades. The study found that germination requires the coordinated activity of multiple genes, receptor proteins, and amino acids in two simultaneous signaling pathways.
Researchers found that neural stem cells migrate to injured brain areas in response to acute brain injuries, such as strokes. This self-repair mechanism could potentially lead to new treatments for brain-related disorders.
A study of Maya children in the US found nearly half are overweight and 42% are obese, with TV and computer gaming linked to a higher risk. The disparity is attributed to American acculturation and socioeconomic factors, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
The University of Michigan Medical School is addressing mounting clinical and economic pressures through its Innovations in Medical Education program. The four-part mission focuses on improving teaching in medical education, with research documenting increased productivity in publication and teaching effectiveness.
Researchers argue that English should be the primary language for space travelers due to its international significance and potential for genetic diversity. Despite this, changes in vocabulary may occur during the journey, particularly with new words being coined and old ones falling out of use.
The U-M Medical School is developing an interdisciplinary CAM curriculum, integrating theory, evidence, and practice to enhance learning. The program aims to increase medical students' knowledge of CAM, promoting a deeper understanding of the healing relationship between physician and patient.
Researchers found that inhibiting acid production made stomachs more vulnerable to bacterial invasion and gastritis. The study suggests that antibiotics are the best way to kill bacteria causing gastritis and eliminate inflammation. Inhibiting acid production can actually trigger an inflammatory response, making gastritis worse.
A recent study found that most popular melanoma web sites had incomplete facts about the disease, with around one in eight sites having inaccuracies. The study suggests that Web users should be cautious when searching for health information online and guide themselves toward reputable sources.
A new study suggests that smaller hospitals can perform heart bypass surgeries with similar outcomes to high-volume hospitals for low-risk patients. Moderate- and high-risk patients, however, should still seek major medical centers with high-bypass volumes to minimize mortality risk.
Pediatricians and family doctors are concerned about the high cost of new vaccines, insurance delays, and unequal access to these life-saving shots. The survey found that many doctors are hesitant to recommend the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine due to its financial burden.
A survey of over 400 doctors found that nearly a third would assist with lethal injections, highlighting the need for education on ethical guidelines and professional obligations. The study's authors warn that physicians' personal opinions on capital punishment may not align with their professional duties.
Researchers identified a mutated WFS1 gene responsible for low-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, which can lead to severe hearing aids requirements. The discovery may be common in the general population and could connect with other conditions like Meniere's Disease.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that high oxygen levels can be toxic to stem cells, converting muscle cells into fat cells. This discovery has important clinical implications for the treatment of obesity and diabetes, as it may be related to aging and oxidative stress conditions.
Researchers have made a breakthrough discovery about the development of rod and cone photoreceptors, the light-sensitive cells in the retina that initiate vision. The study found that the retinal protein Nrl acts as a 'molecular switch,' signaling cells to develop into rods rather than cones.
Scientists have found a gene responsible for a rare form of hereditary spastic paraplegia, a condition that slowly robs children of their ability to walk. The discovery has opened the door to better diagnosis and treatment of the disorder, as well as insights into other spinal cord problems.
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.