Articles tagged with Risk Reduction
Heart specialists at Michigan Medicine call for clarity on beta blocker prescribing before surgery. Previous studies have differing methods and results, making it hard to determine who should get beta blockers and at what dosage.
A study analyzing 12 studies found helmets significantly protect against head injuries, reducing the risk by 35%. The use of helmets also prevented between 2-5 head injuries among users.
Physical activity has been associated with a reduced risk of age-related conditions such as arthritis, falls, and fractures, as well as improvements in cognitive function and bone density. Four new studies published in Archives of Internal Medicine have moved the scientific enterprise further along the path toward understanding the ful...
The PLATO trial shows that ticagrelor, a stronger anticlotting medication, reduces the risk of cardiovascular death and heart attacks without increasing bleeding in heart attack patients. This new analysis finds significant and clinically relevant reductions in cardiovascular and total deaths, myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis.
A soccer-specific exercise program reduced the risk of knee injuries among young female players by 77%, according to a study published in Archives of Internal Medicine. The program, which included strengthening exercises and awareness training for coaches and parents, also resulted in less severe injuries when they did occur.
Regular coffee consumption was associated with a 7% reduced risk of diabetes, while decaffeinated coffee had a one-third lower risk. Tea consumption also showed a significant protective effect, with a one-fifth lower risk. The study suggests that compounds in these beverages may have direct biological effects.
Researchers have discovered a blood clotting agent that can be targeted without affecting normal wound healing, offering potential improvements over existing anticoagulant drugs. The findings suggest polyphosphate or factor XII could be new targets for drug development to reduce thrombosis risk.
Men who engage in moderate-to-heavy intensity exercise have a lower risk of stroke compared to those with no physical activity. The study found that men who participated in such activities were 63% less likely to experience a stroke. However, the results did not show a similar benefit for women.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that workers exposed to high levels of Bisphenol-A (BPA) in their jobs had a quadruple the risk of erectile dysfunction and seven times more risk of ejaculation difficulty. This is the first human study to measure the effects of BPA on the male reproductive system.
A large observational study found that long-term statin use is associated with a decreased risk of developing gallstones requiring surgery. Patients taking statins for 1-4 prescriptions had a lower risk compared to non-users, with an increased risk reduction after 5 prescriptions.
A study by Indiana University found that using lubricants during sex significantly improves the pleasurable and satisfying aspects of sexual activity for both men and women. The research also showed that vaginal tearing is rare when lubricant is used, occurring in less than 1% of cases.
Breast cancer patients can reduce their risk of lymphedema by seeking physical therapy services before, during, and after treatment. A study published in the journal Cancer found that pre-operative assessments by physical therapists enable early diagnosis and management of the condition, leading to more conservative treatment options.
Researchers found no association between light-to-moderate alcohol consumption and reduced risk of functional decline over time. Lifestyle-related characteristics such as physical activity, body weight, education, and income were identified as the real determinants of the reported beneficial effects of alcohol.
A large study found that individuals following a Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, were less likely to develop depression. The diet's high intake of monounsaturated fatty acids from olive oil may be protective against depressive symptoms.
Therapeutic hypothermia, a medical treatment lowering body temperature to reduce tissue damage, will be published in an online open-access journal starting February 2010. The journal aims to advance understanding and application of this therapy in cardiology and neurotrauma.
A new study published in The Lancet found that early treatment with glatiramer acetate can reduce the risk of progressing to 'full-blown' multiple sclerosis by almost half. The medication also showed efficacy in reducing MRI measures of disease activity and cumulative number of new lesions.
A recent Cochrane Systematic Review found no evidence that B-vitamin supplements can prevent heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular disease. The review of 24,210 people showed that these supplements have no effect on the incidence of cardiovascular disease.
A national survey reveals that most Americans are at risk of heart disease due to lifestyle factors like obesity, with fewer than half correctly believing they should adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle from childhood. The Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association has launched an education campaign called 'Family at Heart' to empower pa...
The HORIZONS-AMI trial showed that bivalirudin therapy significantly reduces major bleeding and cardiac death in patients with ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) who have disease of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery. In high-risk STEMI patients, bivalirudin also provides the greatest mortality benefit.
Three medications effective in reducing breast cancer risk also have serious side effects, according to a new study. Tamoxifen, raloxifene, and tibolone reduce invasive breast cancer incidence but vary in their adverse effect profiles.
A systematic review of 18 studies found corticosteroids alone reduce unsatisfactory recovery by 9%, while combined therapy with antiviral agents may offer a 5% absolute risk reduction. Corticosteroids are also associated with reduced synkinesis and autonomic dysfunction.
A new study published in The Lancet found that proton pump inhibitors do not negate the clinical benefit of clopidogrel or prasugrel in patients after a heart attack. The TRITON-TIMI 38 trial showed that PPIs can be safely used with these antiplatelet drugs to reduce gastrointestinal bleeding.
Eating less red meat has been linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The World Health Organization recommends limiting weekly intake to 500 grams. By adopting this change, individuals can contribute to mitigating climate change and improving public health.
The CAVATAS study found that surgery reduces the risk of both short-term and long-term stroke, as well as repeat stenosis. Patients who underwent endovascular treatment had a higher incidence of restenosis and subsequent stroke compared to those who received surgery.
A new predictive tool, ADO index, improves upon the existing BODE index by providing a more accurate estimate of mortality risk. The updated index is easier to use and can help clinicians identify patients at moderate or high risk of mortality, guiding targeted treatment options.
Research found that higher levels of total blood choline are associated with a reduced risk of neural tube birth defects (NTDs). Choline supplementation during pregnancy may also have additional benefits for memory function, breast cancer prevention, and cardiovascular health.
A new observational study found that being physically active and adhering to a Mediterranean-type diet are associated with reduced risk of Alzheimer's. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, followed 1880 elderly subjects over five and a half years.
Elderly individuals with a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish, and high levels of physical activity had a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with slower cognitive decline but not decreased dementia risk.
A study of 23,513 German adults found that four healthy lifestyle factors—never smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and following a healthy diet—were associated with an 80% reduction in the risk of developing chronic diseases. The largest reduction was seen in individuals with a BMI lower than 30.
A new study found that short sleep times may contribute to insulin resistance and reduced glucose tolerance, increasing the long-term risk of diabetes. The research suggests a healthy lifestyle should include adequate sleep, healthy eating habits, and physical activity to prevent diabetes.
A new CU-Boulder study warns that climate change could lead to a one-in-two chance of fully depleting the Colorado River's reservoir storage by mid-century. The study found that even with a 20% reduction in stream flow, the risk of full depletion would still be significant.
A large US study found that moderate alcohol intake decreases the risk of dementia in older adults, with a 37% reduction in risk for those who drank 8-14 drinks per week. However, heavy drinking was associated with faster rates of cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia.
A study published in Public Health Nutrition found that pregnant women who consumed at least seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day had a moderate reduction in the risk of developing an upper respiratory tract infection. Higher intake was associated with a stronger risk reduction.
Patients with ischemic stroke and moderate to severe OSA who received CPAP treatment had a significantly lower risk of death compared to those who did not comply. The study found that nearly half of the original group had died within five years, while only 28 were fully compliant with CPAP treatment.
Musicians who play high resistance woodwinds like the oboe have a lower risk of obstructive sleep apnea. The study suggests that playing these instruments for longer hours per week is key to lowering this risk.
A new study found that prenatal multivitamin supplements significantly reduce the risk of babies with a low birth weight compared to iron-folic acid supplementation. The study suggests that micronutrients supplementation could avoid approximately 1.5 million low birth weight babies globally each year.
Aspirin use in primary prevention reduces non-fatal heart attacks by around 12%, mainly due to reduced risk of non-fatal heart attack. However, it also increases the risk of internal bleeding by around a third in healthy individuals.
A randomised controlled trial of 2518 patients found no significant reduction in deep vein thrombosis with compression stockings. In fact, skin complications were more common in those who received the stockings. The study's findings challenge national stroke guidelines and recommend revising treatment protocols.
A meta-analysis of studies on aspirin therapy found a 12% reduced risk of nonfatal stroke in patients with peripheral artery disease, although this finding was not statistically significant. Aspirin monotherapy was also associated with a lower risk of nonfatal stroke, but no significant reductions were seen in other cardiovascular events.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who take folic acid supplements for at least one year before becoming pregnant are less likely to have premature babies. The research suggests a significant reduction in very early and early preterm deliveries, with a 70% decrease in the most high-risk category.
Taking folic acid supplements for at least a year before conception reduces the risk of premature birth by 70% and 50%, according to a large cohort study. The findings suggest that folic acid supplementation may be an effective prevention method for premature birth.
A large study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center demonstrates that following the DASH diet significantly reduces women's risk of developing heart failure. The diet, high in plant foods and low in sugar and saturated fats, also lowers blood pressure.
Two studies show that adult circumcision reduces the risk of contracting HIV and coital injuries, but does not affect sexual function. Circumcision removes skin surface susceptible to HIV infection, reducing the risk of transmission.
A study of 39,367 Swedish men found that eating fatty fish once a week reduced the risk of heart failure by 12%, while consuming more than three servings per week did not show a significant difference. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils were also linked to a 33% lower risk of heart failure.
The study found that statin use is associated with a significant reduction in stroke risk, with each 1 mmol/L decrease in LDL cholesterol resulting in a relative risk reduction of 21%. Statins also have additional benefits for cardiovascular health, including lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation.
A University of Missouri professor's study reveals that older women's intentions to ensure accessibility to their homes can override concerns about preventing intrusions. To feel safe, older women need to recognize safety risks and perceive their capabilities in preventing intrusions.
Using a chlorhexidine gluconate-impregnated sponge reduced major catheter-related infections by 61% in critically ill ICU patients. Changing dressing frequency from daily to every 7 days appears safe and may reduce unnecessary interventions.
Oral vitamin D supplements significantly reduce non-vertebral fractures by 14% and hip fractures by 9% in adults 65 or older. Higher doses of vitamin D (above 400 IU/day) show greater fracture reduction, especially among individuals with higher blood vitamin D levels.
The SPCG-4 trial found that radical prostatectomy significantly reduces prostate cancer mortality and risk of metastases, with little to no increase in benefits over a 12-year follow-up. The study suggests that well-structured pre-treatment information, patient understanding, and support are crucial for managing prostate cancer.
A large-scale trial found that diabetic patients with atrial fibrillation have a significantly higher risk of death from cardiovascular causes. The study suggests that aggressive treatment with blood pressure-lowering drugs can reduce this risk, and highlights the importance of identifying undiagnosed AF in diabetic patients.
A daily folic acid supplement increased prostate cancer risk by more than two-fold compared to placebo, according to a USC-led study. The findings contradict previous observations suggesting folate might lower prostate cancer risk.
A study published in Cancer found that women with BRCA mutations are more likely to choose prophylactic mastectomies due to emotional worry and fear of developing the disease. The research suggests that clinicians should consider a patient's lifestyle and quality of life when counseling them about prophylactic mastectomies.
Women with BRCA gene mutations strongly favor preventive mastectomy as the most effective way to reduce their risk and fears of developing breast cancer. The study found that over 80% of these women ultimately underwent the procedure, highlighting the significant impact of genetic testing on medical decision-making.
A study published in JAMA found that patients who receive a medication to reduce gastrointestinal bleeding alongside clopidogrel and aspirin after a heart attack have an increased risk of hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome or death. The study suggests that proton pump inhibitors may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel, but...
A Kaiser Permanente study found that drinking one glass of wine a day may lower the risk of Barrett's Esophagus by 56%. The study also suggests that antioxidants in wine may neutralize oxidative damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is a risk factor for Barrett's Esophagus.
A new UCLA study found that drinking at least three cups of green or black tea a day can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. The study suggests that the antioxidant compounds in tea, such as EGCG and theanine, may be responsible for this effect.
A study found that lack of general treatment failure and distant metastases 3 years after treatment initiation may be surrogate endpoints for long-term survival in early prostate cancer patients. Another study identified netrin-1 as a potential therapeutic target for non-small cell lung cancer.
A meta-analysis of 8 large-scale observational studies found that SSRIs significantly reduced the risk of completed or attempted suicide in adults with depression. The study suggests that prescribing SSRI medications is safe for patients with major depression, but children and adolescents should be closely monitored.
UCSF's Positive Choice: Interactive Video Doctor and Healthy Living interventions have been selected by the CDC for their effectiveness in reducing HIV risk behaviors. These programs address crucial aspects of living with HIV, including stress and coping, transmission risk behaviors, and adherence to medication regimens.
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that reducing salt intake can have cardioprotective effects beyond lowering blood pressure. The research found benefits for people with normal blood pressure and those who are overweight or obese, starting as early as a few weeks after sodium reduction.