Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Impaired vision common in US

A recent study estimates that 1 in 8 individuals aged 12+ in the US have impaired vision, with a prevalence of 6.4%. The majority can achieve good corrected visual acuity, but disparities exist among certain groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 9, 2006

Exposure to volcanic mineral associated with increased mesothelioma incidence in Turkey

A prospective study of Turkish villagers found a significant association between long-term erionite exposure and an increased risk of developing pleural mesothelioma. The study, conducted over 23 years, revealed annual incidence rates significantly higher in erionite-exposed villages compared to a control village.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 14, 2006

Many new immigrants to US change diet -- and not for the better

A new study by Ilana Redstone Akresh found that 39% of US immigrants reported significant changes in their diets, resulting in increased junk food and meat consumption. This can lead to negative health outcomes, as those who consume more junk food have higher BMI and lower levels of education, English proficiency, and social integration.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInternational Migration Review·DateFeb 9, 2006

Hospital experience and nursing improve cancer surgery outcome

Researchers found that hospitals performing over 10 cystectomies per year had statistically significant lower mortality and morbidity rates. Additionally, hospitals with a high nurse-to-patient ratio reduced post-operative mortality by more than 50 percent regardless of the hospital's cystectomy volume.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJul 25, 2005

Early detection of thick melanomas

The number of new melanoma cases in the US increased 60% from 1988-1991 to 1996-1999, with thick melanomas primarily composed of nodular subtype. The study suggests that current early-detection educational programs may not be effective for detecting this aggressive type of melanoma.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateJun 20, 2005

College alcohol problems exceed previous estimates

The study found that excessive drinking among college students poses significant harm, with over 500,000 unintentional injuries and 600,000 assaults reported in 2001. The researchers propose strategies to reduce college drinking and associated harm, including increased enforcement of underage drinking laws and screening programs.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·JournalAnnual Review of Public Health·DateMar 18, 2005

Anti-rollover device for tractors

A team of researchers designed a protective structure to reduce tractor rollover accidents, resulting in improved agricultural worker safety. The 'Estrema' programme calculates necessary structures for various types of tractors, with enhanced models approved for use in the agricultural sector.

Electronic medical records reduce hours, cut cost

A large-scale study of 39,462 members found that electronic medical records can reduce hospitalizations by 19% and annual paid claims by $817. The CareEngine system improved patient outcomes while reducing costs, highlighting the potential of clinical decision support tools.

SourceKetchum UK·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateFeb 10, 2005