A study found that single homeless women and men visit emergency departments an average of over twice a year, significantly more than the general population. Homeless individuals also have higher doctor's appointments and hospitalization rates, highlighting the need for improved healthcare management and affordable housing.
A small group of homeless people are extremely high users of ERs, with some individuals visiting the hospital over 8 times a year. These frequent users often have multiple complex healthcare needs and require more than just emergency care.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital have found that enriched bone marrow stem cells secrete hormones that replicate the positive impact of stem cells on treating animals with chronic kidney disease and heart failure. The discovery opens up a potential new treatment approach by eliminating the need to inject stem cells.
A study found that children born to teenage mothers have delayed speaking skills at age five, likely due to limited opportunities for education and well-paid jobs. Parenting involvement, such as playing and reading with the child, was predictive of higher-level development.
A new study found that over half of Ontarians with major depression did not use physician-based mental health services, highlighting a gap in accessing clinician-based care. Research suggests that women are more likely to seek help and that cultural and stigma barriers may contribute to underutilization.
A new study found that Americans in higher socio-economic groups have a 13% greater chance of surviving subarachnoid hemorrhage than those in lower-income groups. However, this status did not influence mortality rates in Canada, where universal health insurance may play a role in improving outcomes.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that cheque-cashing outlets cluster in neighbourhoods with high violent crime rates. These establishments disproportionately serve single parent mothers, the elderly and young males, who are also more likely to be victims of violent crime.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital finds that milder forms of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) persist despite the decline in severe cases with combination antiretroviral therapy. Effective screening tests for mild HAND are lacking, affecting up to 50-60% of people living with HIV and AIDS.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital researchers found that cognitive enhancers do not improve cognition or function in people with mild cognitive impairment in the long term. Patients on these medications experienced significantly more nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and headaches, highlighting the potential risks of these drugs.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital reveals that socio-economic status is a major factor influencing the risks of abuse for Aboriginal women. Assuming equal income and education levels, the risk of partner abuse drops by 40%, highlighting the significant impact of socio-economic position on these rates.
A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology found that people with diabetes have a 30% lower risk of dying if they undergo coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) rather than angioplasty and inserting a stent (PCI). This significant finding has public health implications due to the large difference in outcomes.
A new study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found significant racial and ethnic differences in outcomes following a type of stroke called subarachnoid hemorrhage. Hispanic patients were more likely to survive, while Asian/Pacific Islanders were more likely to die from the condition.
A recent study published in Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that men are at a higher risk of developing physical illnesses compared to women. Having a mental illness increases the risk by 10 times, with women experiencing a physical illness a year earlier than men.
A new study reveals that 10-20% of people with substance abuse problems also have significant gambling issues, which often go untreated due to lack of targeted programs. The review highlights the need for unique approaches to encourage participation in research and treatment.
A Canadian sculptor's artistic abilities remained intact despite advanced vascular dementia, according to a new study. The artist, Mary Hecht, was able to draw spur-of-the-moment and detailed sketches from memory, showcasing cognitive reserve in the brain.
Researchers emphasize understanding ethical, social and cultural impact of global health initiatives. Effective approaches to address these challenges are crucial for high-quality research.
A patient who suffered a stroke developed synesthesia, a neurological condition where people experience multiple senses at the same time. The patient's brain activity showed targeted and specific responses to certain stimuli, suggesting that his synesthesia was caused by cross-wiring in his brain after the injury.
The MERS coronavirus has the potential to spread faster and wider during two annual events in Saudi Arabia, putting millions of travelers at risk. The virus could be introduced into countries through returning pilgrims or domestic pilgrims who come into contact with infected individuals.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found higher rates of complications in blood-based resuscitation compared to conventional resuscitation, with no difference in mortality rates. Researchers led by Dr. Sandro Rizoli recommend larger trials to confirm findings and explore alternatives.
A new study found that patients who understand their potential risk for another fracture are more likely to take action. Knowing bone health and osteoporosis is pivotal in preventing future fractures.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that the flu shot is effective in preventing the flu, even if the virus going around does not match the vaccine. The review of over 40 years of data showed significant protection against both matched and mismatched flu strains.
A study found that 20% of adolescents in Ontario reported having suffered a traumatic brain injury, with males and those with lower grades more likely to experience injuries during sports. The prevalence of TBI among young people is much higher than previously thought.
A new study by Dr. Nav Persaud found a significant association between poor eating habits in kids ages three to five and their levels of non-HDL cholesterol, putting them at risk for cardiovascular disease later in life. Parents who allowed their children to snack on junk food and eat while watching TV were more likely to have this risk.
A new study found that older patients who know they are at risk of fractures will make positive lifestyle changes, such as exercising and wearing proper shoes, to avoid them. Many participants were confused about the significance of bone density but engaged in daily behavioural strategies to manage their fracture risk.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that patients taking probiotics with antibiotics experienced a significant reduction in antibiotic-associated diarrhea and C. difficle infection. This is likely due to the powerful effects of probiotics on population digestive tracts and immune systems.
A new study by Dr. Tomislav Svoboda found that homeless men who are heavy drinkers have a staggering 400 times more head injuries than the general population. The study also revealed that these men experience severe and frequent brain bleeding, dizziness, memory loss, and mental health issues.
A new program, co-led by St. Michael's Hospital, has shown promise in reducing service use and substance abuse among frequent healthcare users with severe addictions. The Toronto Community Addiction Team provides one-on-one intensive case management, resulting in a statistically significant decrease in service use, alcohol, and drug use.
A new study found that over 80% of youth who died by suicide had some form of contact with the healthcare system in the year before their death. This suggests a significant opportunity for prevention through targeted interventions and screenings in outpatient settings.
Researchers discovered that lungs with fluid in the lungs no longer pump water out as believed, but instead pump it in. This finding has important implications for treating lung edema, a common symptom of heart disease.
A new mathematical formula developed by researchers at St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto identifies high-risk areas for cardiac arrests and suggests optimal locations for automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to maximize survival rates.
A new study found that patients with severe acute kidney injury who see a nephrologist within 90 days of discharge have a 24% lower risk of dying. The benefit was most pronounced in individuals without prior specialist care, suggesting earlier follow-up may mitigate adverse events and improve outcomes.
A new study led by Dr. Sharon Straus at St. Michael's Hospital found that leadership programs have modest effects on advancement in leadership ranks and ability to publish papers in peer-reviewed journals. The study highlights the need for more research to evaluate which programs work and why.
A new study from St. Michael's Hospital found that dietary supplements accounted for more than half of the Class 1 drugs recalled by the US Food and Drug Administration between 2004-12. The majority of these recalls were for bodybuilding, weight loss, or sexual enhancement products containing unapproved medicinal ingredients, including...
A study by Dr. Michael Cusimano found that newspapers have increased coverage of concussions in ice hockey, including discussions on the need for rule changes and player safety. However, many reports still perpetuate a culture that trivializes head injuries and views them as an occupational risk.
A review of published research found no evidence that drugs, herbal products, or vitamin supplements can prevent cognitive decline in healthy older adults. However, mental exercises such as computerized memory training programs and intensive one-on-one personal cognitive training showed promise.
Researchers developed a simple tool to help governments assess traveler screening during infectious disease outbreaks. The tool considers exit and entry screening, as well as flight patterns and disease incubation periods.
A study by Dr. Anne Rhodes found that youth with a history of maltreatment, small neighborhood size, or mental disorder are more likely to repeat suicidal behaviors. The research, published in Child Abuse & Neglect, highlights the importance of assessing these factors to prevent repetition.
A new study out of St. Michael's Hospital found that nearly half of all traumatic brain injuries among Canadian children and youth participating in organized sports occurred in ice hockey, with most caused by body contact or being hit into the boards. The researchers also identified specific prevention tactics for various sports, inclu...
A new study published in BMC Public Health has found that homeless people have a disproportionately higher risk for traumatic brain injuries (TBI) compared to the general population. The study suggests that TBI may be a risk factor for homelessness and could contribute to the chronicity of homelessness.
Researchers found that making a left-hand turn requires significant brain activation and involves multiple areas of the brain. Talking on a hands-free cell phone further reduces visual cortex activity, compromising vision and alertness.
A study led by Dr. Stephen Hwang of St. Michael's Hospital found that family physicians' offices in Toronto tend to give preference to patients with chronic health conditions and high socio-economic status. The researchers telephoned office staff playing the role of individuals seeking primary care, and observed a significant differenc...
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital have developed a shorter version of the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) tool to screen cancer patients for malnutrition. The abPG-SGA tool was found to be effective in identifying malnourished patients and improving patient outcomes.
Research shows that babies of immigrant mothers in Ontario have higher birth weights compared to babies born in their mothers' native countries. The weight differences are more pronounced for babies born in poorer, less developed countries.
A study found that more than a third of adults with COPD were prescribed benzodiazepines, despite warnings about their potential harm. The most vulnerable group, those with severe COPD, used the medication at the highest frequency and with the most repeat prescriptions.
A study published in the Canadian Journal of Anesthesia found that hospitals treating patients with anemia before surgery had better outcomes, including reduced blood transfusions, infections, and shorter hospital stays. Early diagnosis and treatment of anemia are crucial to avoid unnecessary transfusions and improve patient care.
Smokers who quit between ages 35 and 44 regained about nine years of life, while those who quit between ages 45-54 and 55-64 gained six and four years, respectively. Women who smoke like men also die like men.
A new study reveals that vitamin D supplementation and cow's milk consumption are key factors in determining children's vitamin D levels, surpassing skin color and sun exposure. The research, conducted at St. Michael's Hospital, found that 57% of children took a daily vitamin D supplement.
A new study found that adults with diabetes in Ontario are getting significantly fewer government-funded eye exams than they were a decade ago. The decrease is an unintended consequence of the provincial government's decision in 2004 to delist routine eye exams from the Ontario Health Insurance Plan for healthy adults under age 65.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that two cups of cow's milk per day is sufficient to maintain adequate vitamin D levels and iron stores in most children. Drinking more than two cups resulted in lower iron stores without additional benefits for vitamin D.
A new study by Tony Antoniou found that HIV hospitalizations in Ontario declined significantly since the introduction of combination antiretroviral drug therapy in 1996-97. However, women with HIV and low-income individuals continue to face higher rates of hospitalization compared to men and high-income patients.