A cluster-randomised trial in Nepal found that women's groups addressing childbirth and care issues led to a 26.2 per 1000 neonatal mortality rate, compared to 36.9 in control clusters. The intervention also reduced maternal mortality by 80%.
A large-scale study found that nine easily measured risk factors are associated with over 90% of heart attacks worldwide. The study identified smoking and raised lipid concentrations as the two main risk factors.
The Lancet's editorial advocates for animal research to improve human health and develop new medicines, despite potential controversy. The journal emphasizes the need for scientific justification and responsible animal care in experiments.
Health experts emphasize the need for stronger health systems to achieve improved health outcomes, but agree that a more manageable approach is needed. Disease-specific interventions can deliver quicker results, yet may lead to duplication and disruption, while system-wide approaches build benefits over time, but are less manageable.
A rapid review of the Atkins diet suggests that it can lead to significant weight loss in the short-term, with individuals on the low-carbohydrate diet losing more weight than those on an energy-restricted low-fat diet. However, long-term effects and potential health risks remain uncertain, highlighting the need for further research.
A new study highlights the long-term efficacy and safety of the angina drug nifedipine GITS, showing it can be used safely for the treatment of patients with coronary disease. The trial found similar mortality rates among those receiving the medication and a placebo, but lower incidence of heart failure and coronary interventions.
A Nordic study found statins decrease mortality rate and incidence of cancer over 10-year follow-up. Statin therapy with simvastatin reduced cardiovascular and coronary mortality, with a 17% reduction in cardiovascular mortality.
A Japanese study found that neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir-resistant viruses emerged more frequently in children treated for influenza, posing a potential risk of transmission. The research also highlights the need for further investigation into the mechanisms of resistance to prevent and treat future pandemics.
Paediatric research is crucial for disease prevention and treatment, yet data are lacking due to a lack of legislation requiring companies to conduct trials on children. The UK Government's new initiative aims to invest £100 million in research networks but falls short of centre stage for acquiring research-based evidence.
A 56-year-old man with a cancer-induced jawbone removal underwent a new bone grafting procedure, resulting in successful bone remodelling and mineralisation. He regained the ability to chew and enjoyed his first solid meal in 9 years after transplantation.
A new study suggests that endovascular surgery (EVAR) reduces mortality rates by around two-thirds compared to conventional open surgery for large abdominal aortic aneurysms. The study involved over 1000 patients and found that EVAR was associated with lower 30-day mortality rates, but also led to more secondary procedures.
A comprehensive review of media reports and government documents reveals widespread failure of medical staff to uphold human rights standards at Abu Ghraib, including falsified records and coercive interrogations. The incident highlights the need for reforms to military medical services and a re-emphasis on principles of medical ethics.
The TARGET study found that COX2 inhibitor lumiracoxib significantly reduces ulcer complications in osteoarthritis patients, but no significant difference was seen in cardiovascular events. Lumiracoxib showed a three to four-fold reduction in ulcer complications compared with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
A study found that atorvastatin reduced cardiovascular events, deaths, and strokes by a third in patients with type 2 diabetes without high LDL cholesterol. The results suggest statin therapy may be safe and effective for this patient group.
A recent audit found that using diathermy in tonsillectomies increases the risk of postoperative haemorrhage, particularly in adults and procedures performed by junior surgeons. The study suggests that hot techniques should be used with caution and emphasizes the importance of training junior surgeons to control bleeding.
The number of female consultants has risen by more than 50% in the last 10 years, driven by increasing numbers of women admitted to medical school. However, sexism and a lack of flexibility in working environments are still major issues affecting female doctors' careers.
The study found that obstetric intervention rates were higher among refugees (1%) compared to the host population (0.45%), with maternal mortality being 2.5 times greater in the host population. The researchers emphasize the need for integrated health systems catering to both refugee and host populations.
A study of 2500 babies found no difference in outcomes between those who received suctioning and those who did not, challenging current guidelines on perinatal treatment. The results suggest that routine suctioning may not be effective in preventing meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) or its complications.
A meta-analysis of 11 randomised trials found that drug-eluting stents significantly reduced the rate of severe cardiac events by half, compared to bare-metal stents. Additionally, patients treated with drug-eluting stents experienced lower rates of restenosis, a common complication after stenting.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive lung damage and increased mortality worldwide. The five-article series aims to increase awareness of COPD through advances in understanding and management.
A study challenges the common perception that spiders cause many diseases, including skin ulcers and flesh-eating skin disease. In reality, spider bites are rare and generally harmless, while other causes of these conditions are more likely.
The Lancet editorial criticizes WHO/AFRO's ineffective leadership and political ties with African governments, advocating for decentralization and a technical approach. The new leader has the opportunity to transform the agency.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that delaying preterm birth by a few days can significantly reduce the risk of disability in premature babies. The research suggests that obstetricians may be delivering too early and that delaying delivery until it is medically necessary could help minimize brain damage.
The study identifies a heterozygous genotype for the prion protein, suggesting that individuals with this genetic subgroup may be at higher risk of vCJD transmission. The findings highlight the need for continued surveillance and leucoreduction policies to reduce the risk of blood-borne transmission.
The UK's Healthcare Commission, led by Ian Kennedy, has been criticized for its flawed star system and lack of transparency. The commission's ratings have been shown to be based on incomplete data and do not accurately reflect the quality of care provided by NHS Trusts.
Researchers found specific features like nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status were more frequent in inhalational anthrax cases. Mediastinal widening or pleural effusion on a chest X-ray were the most accurate predictors of anthrax. Studies using prospectively collected data are needed to corroborate or modify these findings.
A UK study found that a significant proportion of people with type 2 diabetes are managed solely through diet, receiving inadequate monitoring and care. This highlights the need for better routine surveillance and consistency in clinical practice to address the high rate of complications among these patients.
A survey in 2000 showed a decrease in tuberculosis prevalence of around a third compared to the original survey in 1990. China aims to reach the UN Millennium Development Goal of halving TB prevalence between 2000 and 2015 with its expansion plans.
The Lancet editorial argues that criticism of President Bush's AIDS spending is necessary to ensure efficient use of limited resources. Leading scientists and public-health advocates have judged that the size of US investment into AIDS renders President Bush immune from criticism, but this assessment is mistaken.
The Lancet editorial highlights concerns about the practicality of implementing government plans for cleaner hospitals and lower rates of infection. Key issues include a lack of resources and clear timetable for implementation, as well as insufficient sanctions for hospitals that fail to maintain acceptable levels of cleanliness.
The meningococcal serogroup C conjugate (MCC) vaccine programme has successfully controlled the incidence of meningitis C, with high short-term effectiveness and substantial herd immunity. However, long-term efficacy remains unknown, with protection diminishing in children vaccinated in early infancy.
A study found that adding aspirin to clopidogrel therapy increased the risk of intracranial and gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with a history of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Despite this, combination therapy did not significantly reduce the primary outcome measure at 18 months.
A UK study involving 8000 pupils found that fewer girls reported intercourse before age 16 with peer-led sex education, but the impact on teenage pregnancy rates was unclear. The study's authors suggest broader strategies are needed to improve young people's sexual health.
Neglected diseases, such as onchocerciasis and Chagas' disease, can be controlled with cost-effective interventions. Investing in these efforts could bring long-lasting benefits and reduce morbidity, particularly for children, if done efficiently from Global Fund resources.
A study of over 1,000 children followed into adulthood found a strong association between extensive TV viewing and increased risk of obesity, high cholesterol, smoking, and poor cardiovascular fitness. Parents are advised to limit children's TV viewing to 1-2 hours per day to prevent long-term health consequences.
A study found that intensive management of rheumatoid arthritis patients, involving monthly disease activity score assessment and tailored treatment, led to better outcomes compared to standard routine care. This approach resulted in higher response rates (82% vs 44%) and remission rates (65% vs 16%), without increased costs.
Internet expansion boosts Africa's health information access, enabling health workers to access information beyond capital cities. Regional urban hubs will be key points of dissemination for health info at district level.
The UK House of Lords amendment ignores evidence linking corporal punishment to aggressive behavior, mental illness, and child abuse. The editorial argues that children worldwide have the right to be protected from fear of physical abuse and receive access to proper healthcare.
The UK national cervical screening programme has saved approximately 5,000 lives annually by reversing the rising trend in cervical cancer deaths among women under 35. The programme's success has also led to a significant reduction in costs, with a cost per life saved of less than £40,000.
A call has been made to invest in preventing 'neglected diseases' such as onchocerciasis and Chagas' disease, which can be controlled or eliminated with proven interventions. Investing a fraction of the annual requirements of the Global Fund could bring long-lasting benefits for millions of people.
Lack of physical access, high subscription costs, and irrelevance of available information hinder developing countries' healthcare. A proposed international collaborative group seeks to create a 'pot of money' for initiatives promoting universal access to essential health-care information.
A study found that patients who received bone marrow stem-cell transfer showed a 7% improvement in left-ventricular function, compared to a 0.7% increase for those given medical therapy. Larger trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of this approach in treating cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have successfully generated nerve precursor cells from adult skin cells using a two-step process involving soluble agents called growth factors. This breakthrough raises the possibility of generating nerve cells from an individual's own skin cells, overcoming issues of rejection.
The field of stem-cell research faces challenges in winning public support due to limited clinical benefits. Scientists are urged to step forward and lead a debate about the potential benefits and costs of working with stem cells.
International bodies have struggled to agree on separating stem-cell research from reproductive cloning laws. Dr. Carol A Tauer argues that each issue should be argued on its own merits. Scientists shy away from controversial areas due to unclear funding policies, and the EU needs to break its stalemate for progress.
The Lancet discusses new design changes to the journal, including open-access policies and electronic document posting. The article also explores various HIV/AIDS strategies for developing countries, including expanded access to treatment and prevention efforts. Researchers emphasize the importance of local solutions and community-led ...
A recent study found that cholinesterase inhibitors improved mental and functional ability in AD patients over the first two years of treatment. However, there was no significant delay in institutionalisation or progression of disability, casting doubt on their effectiveness.
Rosuvastatin, marketed as Crestor, has been linked to a higher incidence of rhabdomyolysis and renal insufficiency compared to other statins. The drug's manufacturer, AstraZeneca, is estimated to be seeking $20 billion in annual sales, making it morally unjustifiable to keep the drug on the market.
A study of 374 people with HIV-1 infection found that CMV-positive status was significantly associated with accelerated progression to AIDS and death. Randomised clinical trials are needed to investigate the role of CMV in HIV disease progression.
Researchers have successfully developed a human SARS immunisation in animal studies, showing that monkeys vaccinated with the SARS vaccine had antibodies to the virus and no evidence of viral shedding. In contrast, control group monkeys without vaccination showed significant viral shedding after infection.