Most women who think they have a vaginal yeast infection actually don't, according to Saint Louis University researcher Susan Hoffstetter. Women are often misdiagnosed and treat themselves with anti-fungal medicine, worsening symptoms.
As China's population reaches 336 million over 60 by 2030, the country faces a growing burden of care for senior citizens. The one-child policy may leave some older Chinese without a family member to care for them, forcing them to rely on limited caregivers or facilities.
A new study published in Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine suggests that children whose mothers are depressed do better when their fathers are actively engaged in family life. An involved father can serve as a buffer, reducing the risk of problem behaviors such as aggression, hyperactivity, depression, and anxiety.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have discovered a way to deliver medicine to the brain for treating Sly Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. The breakthrough uses epinephrine to induce the enzyme beta-glucuronidase, which is missing in patients with Sly Syndrome.
A Saint Louis University study finds that pediatricians' efforts to encourage lifestyle changes in obese patients and their families are often futile due to a lack of motivation. Doctors recognize the challenges of changing patterns of behavior in low-income households with limited access to healthy food and time for physical activity.
A study of twins has connected genetic factors to the link between smoking addiction and major depression. The research found a shared gene associated with conduct disorder, which increases the risk of nicotine dependence and major depression, also leading to impulsivity and other drug addictions.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers found that patients' emotional well-being is a crucial factor in determining the success of hip surgery. The clinical test used to evaluate hip function was shown to be less effective than previously thought, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to patient care.
Saint Louis University research found that a diet of 40% fat and high-fructose corn syrup leads to fatty liver disease and type II diabetes, even in sedentary mice
A national study led by Saint Louis University School of Medicine is investigating the effectiveness of a new investigational vaccine made by Bavarian Nordic in stimulating an immune response against smallpox. The study aims to determine how quickly people can be protected after a release of smallpox into the environment.
Preschool children in rural areas who are served homegrown produce are more than twice as likely to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Homegrown produce creates a positive food environment, making kids prefer its taste over other foods.
A new Saint Louis University study shows that young transplant patients who lose their federally provided insurance coverage are more likely to stop taking necessary anti-rejection drugs. This can increase the risk of losing the transplanted organ and even death.
A recent global study found that a nasal spray flu vaccine reduced the attack rate of flu in children by 55 percent compared to traditional flu shots. The vaccine was well-tolerated and induced a more complete immune response, with fewer ear infections reported.
A recent study by Saint Louis University researcher Edward Weiss found that about half of Americans have a version of the FABP2 gene that affects fat metabolism, increasing their risk of developing diabetes. Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise can help mitigate this risk.
A Saint Louis University study found no link between cash settlements for work-related back injuries and future impairment. Disability ratings didn't strongly correlate with day-to-day function levels, raising questions about the validity and fairness of current disability determination programs.
A new study found that exercising regularly can lead to more effective weight loss than following a calorie-restricted diet, as exercise helps preserve muscle mass and improve aerobic capacity. Those who exercised lost between 9-10% of their body weight, while dieters lost 9-10%, but also experienced reduced muscle mass.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers reveals that people with sleep apnea are at a higher risk for ventricular premature contraction, a type of irregular heartbeat that can be fatal. The study found that sleep apnea exacerbates the condition, especially during REM sleep, and may lead to sudden death if left untreated.
A new study by Saint Louis University researcher Edward Weiss found that both diet and exercise provide significant benefits in reducing the risk of diabetes. The study, which followed 50-60 year olds with a high body mass index, showed improvements in glucose tolerance and insulin levels in all three groups, regardless of whether they...
A new comprehensive study by Saint Louis University researchers has identified the top 10 features of activity-friendly communities, which can help improve public health. The study's findings emphasize the importance of designing communities that encourage physical activity, such as mixed-use development, sidewalks, and bike lanes.
A new dementia screening tool developed by Saint Louis University has been shown to detect mild cognitive problems in the elderly that were missed by the Mini Mental Status Examination. The tool, known as SLUMS, is more sensitive and can help clinicians identify patients with mild neurocognitive disorder on initial visit.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers shows a cocktail of ribavirin and Infergen is nearly twice as effective in controlling hepatitis C than standard treatments. Fourteen percent of patients taking the treatment were virus-negative after six months.
A study by Saint Louis University researchers found that heart failure drug use plummeted after two negative articles were published in prominent medical journals. The study showed that doctors quickly changed their treatment practices when confronted with potential safety risks, highlighting the significant influence of medical public...
Prisons in the US are woefully ill-prepared for a flu pandemic, putting the public at risk. Nearly 85% of prisoners will be released within a year, carrying diseases like HIV and tuberculosis with them.
A new study published in Vaccine found that a recombinant Protective Antigen (PA) protein vaccine produced the desired immune response in healthy adults, justifying further testing. The investigational vaccine demonstrated a clear relationship between the amount of vaccine administered and the subsequent immune response.
Sleep disturbance in the elderly is associated with decreased memory, impaired concentration, and impaired ability to function. Geriatricians recommend addressing sleep problems through lifestyle changes, such as keeping a diary to track sleep patterns, and trying daytime walks and environmental adjustments to improve sleep quality.
Apolipoprotein E (apoE) may play a role in age-related macular degeneration, despite its link to Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand why apoE-4 correlates with reduced incidence of macular degeneration.
A new study found that certain characteristics of rural neighborhoods, such as lack of sidewalks and safety concerns, are strongly related to obesity rates. Altering the neighborhood environment to promote physical activity may help reduce obesity on a population level.
Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine found that heated blankets can significantly reduce false-positives in cancer scans caused by brown adipose tissue. The blankets reduced the uptake of tracer by 62%, compared to 30% with traditional drugs.
Researchers found that leptin affects brain processes, improving learning and long-term memory in mice. Low levels of leptin may also be related to cognitive deficits in disorders like type two diabetes.
A study by Saint Louis University found obesity rates were lower in Western European countries compared to Central and Eastern Europe, linked to political changes and environmental factors.
A study by Saint Louis University found significant changes in brain activity after vagal nerve stimulation treatment began, continuing to evolve over 21 months. The treatment appears to induce long-lasting brain changes, with benefits lasting up to two years.
Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine caution against inducing labor due to the risk of chorioamnionitis, a severe infection that can lead to sepsis and future infertility. Women considering induced labor are advised to weigh the risks and consider letting nature take its course.
A study of 195 patients found that obese pregnant women who underwent induced labor took longer to deliver their babies and required more medication. Doctors should inform obese women about the risks of prolonged labor and consider waiting for spontaneous labor onset instead.
Researchers found that a patient's prepregnancy weight is the strongest predictor of birth weight in the next pregnancy. Dr. Robert Blaskiewicz advises overweight moms to lose weight after their first pregnancy and avoid gaining weight between pregnancies.
A recent study found that an intranasal influenza vaccine was significantly more effective in protecting young children against flu infection than traditional injections. The vaccine, known as CAIV-T, was 55% more effective in reducing influenza-like illness in children.
Research by Saint Louis University finds that SIDS strikes premature babies six weeks later than full-term infants. Doctors emphasize the need for SIDS prevention counseling beyond four months for preterm infants.
Researchers identified a new gene associated with Charcot-Marie Tooth disease, a rare inherited neurological disorder. This discovery may lead to better understanding of how nerves function and improved diagnostic possibilities for CMT sufferers.
A significant number of emphysema patients experience improved survival, exercise ability, and quality of life after lung-volume reduction surgery. The study confirms earlier findings and suggests the operation should be recommended for many patients with end-stage emphysema.
The National Institutes of Health is testing avian influenza vaccines to prevent a possible pandemic. Saint Louis University School of Medicine is conducting a research study using a killed flu virus vaccine in children ages 2-9.
Researchers at SLU have made a groundbreaking discovery on the molecular mechanism of HIV integration, shedding light on how the virus invades healthy cells. The study reveals that integrase holds viral DNA together prior to integration, paving the way for new drug therapy options.
A new screening tool called SNAQ identifies patients at risk of weight loss due to poor appetite, which can be fatal. The questionnaire takes less than two minutes to answer and has been validated for use in both elderly and younger populations.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that nursing home residents with moderate to severe dementia who received acetaminophen were more socially active than those who received a placebo. The medication increased their engagement with their environment, including watching TV and talking to themselves.
Recent research findings on avian flu provide critical insight into the origin of pandemic influenza, highlighting two possible mechanisms: direct transmission from birds to humans or reassortment with human strains. This knowledge can help scientists track virus adaptation and inform global surveillance efforts and vaccine development.
A Saint Louis University study challenges the notion that teenage mothers face a future of failure, finding that early motherhood can have positive effects on their lives. The research highlights the crucial role nurses play in supporting young families and providing resources for education, healthcare, and personal growth.
A Saint Louis University study found that genetics account for approximately 33-36% of how we feel physically and mentally. The researchers examined the health-related quality of life of 2,928 middle-age men using twins, revealing a strong genetic influence on our perception of health.
A study of diabetic women found that dobutamine stress echocardiography predicts cardiac death and heart attack. The test's accuracy was shown to be higher than previously thought, allowing doctors to rule out ischemia in more patients, thereby extending their lives.
A recent study found that only one in six pregnant women meet the recommended physical activity levels, with older, non-white women and those with lower incomes being less likely to exercise. Doctors are urged to encourage pregnant women to engage in moderate activities most days of the week.
A new study found that pediatricians frequently neglect to follow up on children who fail initial hearing screenings, leaving them without necessary treatment. This can lead to delayed diagnosis of hearing loss and potentially irreversible language delays in young children.
A recent study by Saint Louis University found that approximately 60 percent of women who out-earn their husbands do so for at least three years. This phenomenon affects lower-income families where both partners are not in the labor force, highlighting a pressing concern for household work allocation.
A new study reveals that targeting the brain chemical methionine enkephalin (Met-Enk) with antisense molecules can alter brain function and increase alcohol consumption in mice. This breakthrough could lead to a new class of drugs for treating Alzheimer's disease and possibly even alcoholism.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that an estimated one in 300 adolescents and adults contracts pertussis each year. The study's results demonstrated that a new pertussis vaccine is over 90% effective in preventing the illness, making it a strongly encouraged booster shot for adults.