A broad analysis by UC San Francisco researchers found that oral contraceptives generally double the risk of stroke, especially with high estrogen doses. The added risk is miniscule and remains low even when doubled, but caution is advised for smokers and those with high blood pressure.
Researchers at the San Francisco VA Medical Center have developed a more reliable way to measure physical fitness in elderly people. The new method, called OUES, calculates oxygen uptake efficiency slope and can be completed without requiring maximum effort, making it suitable for patients with heart disease or kidney failure.
A team of scientists at UCSF has identified five proteins that trigger the immune system to attack cancer cells, marking them for swift destruction by NK cells. The discovery increases the number of known targets for drugs or vaccines to boost the immune system's natural cancer-fighting ability.
Scientists at UCSF deciphered a pattern of signals that determine the survival of T cells, the body's natural defense arsenal. The research identifies a new role for chemical messages between the immune system and a steroid hormone signal, which may control stress-induced hormone imbalance and autoimmune diseases.
The Kaposi's sarcoma virus employs a novel strategy to evade the immune system by removing sentries on cell surfaces and shipping them for destruction. Researchers identified two viral genes that reduce MHC-1 proteins at the cell surface, allowing the virus to spread more widely.
Research reveals that child accident victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) more frequently than previously thought, with symptoms often overlooked by adults. The study emphasizes the need for better education programs to recognize subtle signs of PTSD in children.
The National Cancer Institute has awarded a grant to UCSF researcher Eliseo J. Pérez-Stable to raise awareness about cancer issues in Latinos, promote more research on the subject and train more Latino investigators. The goal is to address unequal burden of cancer in Latino populations through research, training and public awareness.
A new UC Francisco study reveals a link between chronic use of protease inhibitors and the development of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in HIV/AIDS patients. Early diagnosis can lead to effective treatment, but high-risk hip replacement surgery is associated with infection risk for these patients.
A nationwide consortium of nine institutions aims to improve treatment outcomes for children with neuroblastoma by testing new therapies and sharing research information. The project has already shown promising results in improving disease-free survival rates and may lead to faster development of effective treatments.
Two studies found that voluntary counseling and testing significantly reduces unprotected intercourse among HIV individuals and couples, with behavior changes maintained over time. The studies also estimate the intervention's cost-effectiveness, finding it averts infections and saves lives at a lower cost than other HIV interventions.
Researchers found that administering low to moderate doses of kappa-opioids in conjunction with naloxone causes profound, prolonged pain relief in both men and women. This discovery provides a significant alternative to morphine with minimal side effects.
A study by UCSF researchers found evidence of faulty DNA repair in some infertile men, similar to those with certain cancers. The study suggests that defective DNA repair may be a reason for male infertility and potentially increase the risk of offspring infertility and cancer.
A new study predicts that anal Pap smear screening every two to three years would detect pre-cancerous lesions among high-risk HIV-negative men and allow for early treatment of anal cancer. The analysis suggests that this simple procedure could save lives at a cost comparable to annual mammography.
Dr. Yoav Horn founded the West Bank Cancer Program in 1978, helping to establish two oncology treatment centers and train Palestinian physicians. The program improved early cancer treatment and saved lives, according to data from a computerized registry of over 7,000 patient records.
Researchers found that estrogen use reduced cognitive decline in women with e2 and e3 ApoE alleles, but not in those with e4 variants. Estrogen also showed protective effects on carotid wall thickening and atherosclerosis.
A Phase II trial found a 40% response rate with low-dose anti-VEGF combination therapy, compared to 24% for high-dose and 17% for chemotherapy alone. Median survival increased by 2 months with the low-dose treatment.
A large clinical trial is underway at UCSF to study a combination drug therapy for osteoporosis, using recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-84) and alendronate. The trial aims to combine agents that speed up bone formation and resorption with those that slow down resorption, resulting in a net gain of bone strength.
A new study reveals that older Latina women are at a higher risk of having low birth weight infants, contradicting previous assumptions. The research, which analyzed data from over 220,000 Mexican-origin Latina women, found that maternal age was a significant factor in determining infant birth weights.
A new international study found that parents of premature infants expressed strong interest in being involved in treatment and resuscitation decision-making. The majority felt that discussion on therapy was adequate, but suggested improvements could be made through better communication and simpler terminology.
A new UCSF study has analyzed data from 1.5 million births to Mexican-born Latinas, U.S.-born Latinas, and U.S.-born White women, revealing lower rates of tobacco use and medical complications among Mexican-born Latina women.
Researchers at UCSF have discovered a region in the telomerase enzyme that could be targeted to kill cancer cells and regenerate damaged cells. The discovery provides new insights into the mechanism of telomerase and its potential as a therapeutic target, as well as its role in regulating cell life span.
Researchers at UCSF found that excessive water consumption during marathons can lead to fatal brain swelling and fluid leakage into the lungs, a condition known as hyponatremia. Intravenous salt treatment has been shown to be effective in treating hyponatremia.
Researchers found that inhibiting triglyceride synthesis, a key step in fat regulation, results in obesity resistance in mice. The study suggests that blocking DGAT-mediated triglyceride synthesis may be a potential strategy for treating obesity.
Research suggests a single drug could silence misfiring immune genes, quelling asthma response. Identical DNA controls of cytokine genes in mice and humans hint at new treatment.
A nerve protein known as the capsaicin receptor triggers pain signals when exposed to heat or noxious chemicals, contributing to pain from tissue injury and inflammation. Blocking this receptor may ease some kinds of pain, such as visceral pain conditions.
A large study of over 13,000 participants found an inverse relationship between blood levels of vitamin C and the prevalence of gallbladder disease in women. Women with higher vitamin C levels had a lower risk of symptomatic gallbladder disease and asymptomatic gallstones.
Two UC San Francisco scholars analyze a 10-year study on second-hand smoke and cancer, finding the tobacco industry launched an unprecedented misinformation campaign to undermine its findings. The campaign was aimed at slowing down smoking restrictions in European markets.
Researchers at UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center identified genetic regions that confer susceptibility and resistance to a human-like skin cancer in mice. The findings suggest that mouse studies may reveal genetic markers of susceptibility and resistance to cancer in humans, which could impact patient-specific treatment modalities.
A team of scientists at UC San Francisco is launching a four-year research project to identify genetic variations that affect how people respond to drugs. The study aims to revolutionize drug design and testing, boost treatment effectiveness, and reduce side effects.
The California Workforce Initiative aims to analyze data on changing workforce dynamics, encourage policy reform, and develop new curricula for health care professionals. The project will also focus on labor costs, ethnic diversity, and re-training government regulation.
A new study by the Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease and UCSF team found that apoE3 can inhibit memory problems associated with Alzheimer's disease, while apoE4 cannot. This discovery could lead to the development of new drugs simulating apoE3's protective quality.
Researchers at UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies are conducting a quality-of-life study to understand challenges faced by HIV-positive individuals. The Unity Project aims to examine the effects of one-on-one interventions on managing healthcare, disclosing status, and dealing with sexuality.
A UCSF study found that offering a small cash incentive to homeless adults improved their adherence rates for TB prevention therapy, compared to traditional methods. The research involved over 100 participants and found that those who received the monetary incentive completed treatment at nearly double the rate of others.
Researchers found that an experimental pain drug, kappa-opioid, provides effective pain relief to female rats, but has no effect on males. The study suggests a fundamental difference in brain responses between genders, which may lead to the development of more effective and non-addictive pain treatments for women.
A new study from the University of California, San Francisco, suggests that stimulating blood vessel growth with VEGF may help repair stubbornly non-healing fractures. Researchers found that injecting VEGF into broken mouse legs promoted bone growth and increased expression of genes necessary for osteoblast formation.
A nationwide clinical trial found that reducing tidal volumes in mechanical ventilation can cut mortality from Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) by up to 22%. The study, involving 861 patients and coordinated at Massachusetts General Hospital, used a new technique with smaller oxygen puffs to provide breathing assistance.
The conference features expert speakers discussing attitudinal healing, the importance of spirituality in maintaining good health, and navigating the confusing signals of menopause. Women can learn how to incorporate spiritual practices into their daily lives and make informed choices about their health.
A new UCSF study found that bone density loss during osteoporosis treatment is often a sign of regular medication adherence, not a failure of the medication. Women who lost bone density in the first year may actually gain it back with continued treatment.
A UCSF study compared methadone maintenance with a 180-day detoxification program and found that methadone maintenance resulted in lower heroin use rates and fewer drug-related HIV risk behaviors. The study suggests that pharmacological tools are needed to combat heroin addiction.
Nursing home residents with low nurse staffing have higher incidence of health problems, including urinary catheter use, skin care, and malnutrition. Experts recommend increased staffing, education, and training to improve quality care.
A preliminary study found that 38% of HIV-positive people in low-income hotels took over 90% of their medication, adhering well to combination anti-viral therapy. The researchers also discovered a close relationship between medication adherence and viral suppression, with levels of HIV doubling for every 10% of missed pills.
The UCSF Women's Health 2000 event explores risk factors for breast cancer, including genetic predisposition and hormonal influences. The conference also delves into the unique health concerns of lesbian women, such as cervical cancer and mental health issues.
Researchers found that a brief deprivation of vitamin A in developing chicken embryos can generate severe craniofacial deformities, which could be reversed with targeted protein treatments. The study suggests that carefully timed protein therapies in human fetuses might repair cleft palate and other birth defects.
A recent study by UCSF researchers has found a strong genetic link between early stage, non-invasive breast cancer cells and disease recurrences. The study suggests that second tumors are caused by residual cells left over from the primary lesion, highlighting the importance of wide surgical margins to prevent recurrence.
A new study aims to reduce sexual behaviors that lead to HIV transmission by decreasing isolation of HIV-positive men and engaging them in primary prevention. The 'Bay Men' study, funded by the CDC, uses a support group format with social interaction to provide a safe environment for discussion and learning from each other.
The University of California, San Francisco is set to conduct a pioneering study on liver and kidney transplantation in HIV-infected patients. The research aims to determine the safety and efficacy of these procedures in individuals with end-stage liver and kidney disease, which are often fatal due to co-infection with hepatitis C virus.
A new UCSF study reveals that working conditions and job type significantly influence a person's decision to continue working or leave the workforce after developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Women are more likely to make changes to their work situation due to poorer support at home and greater fatigue following diagnosis.
A study by UCSF researcher Shelley Adler found that only a third of women with breast cancer disclose using alternative treatments to their medical doctors. The main reasons for remaining silent were attitudes toward physicians and the perception that disclosure was not relevant to the doctor-patient relationship. Women tend to discuss...
A University of California, San Francisco study found that screening mammography in elderly women aged 66-79 reduced their risk of developing metastatic breast cancer by 43% compared to those who were not screened. This is the first evidence that mammography is beneficial for these women.
A new model predicts that expanding potent HIV therapies will limit infections and AIDS deaths, even with increased risk behavior and drug resistance. The model shows that treating more HIV-infected men will reduce infection rates and deaths below what they would be without treatment.