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TNF blockers may increase the risk of malignancy in children

A study by FDA researchers found a higher incidence of malignancy in children using TNF blockers like infliximab and etanercept. The reporting rate for U.S. cases of malignancy in children was 4-18 times the estimated background rate for the general pediatric population.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 29, 2010

Mental health woes grow while spending declines

A new study finds that many US states are cutting mental health funding due to budget crises, while others have reduced Medicaid payments. However, a few countries are investing in stimulus-funded services to address recession-related mental health disorders, such as the UK's training of psychotherapists and nurses.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health·DateJul 15, 2010

After 40 years, NIH-supported researchers identify possible new treatment for severe vasculitis

A new treatment strategy using rituximab has shown comparable benefits to the current standard of care in reducing disease activity and inducing remission for patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis. Early results also suggest improved outcomes for patients with relapsing disease, making this a major treatment advance.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 14, 2010

New vitamin D guidelines

The new guidelines update Osteoporosis Canada's recommendations on vitamin D intake for Canadians, citing the need for more research into optimal doses and safe upper limits. The recommended daily supplements range from 400-1000 IU for adults under 50, with higher doses required for those over 50.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 13, 2010

Jetting off without the jet lag

A new study has identified a key role for adrenal glucocorticoids in resetting the internal body clock, a finding that could lead to new treatments for jet lag. The research also highlights the importance of timing and location in regulating circadian rhythms.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 23, 2010

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Research reveals that group visits can significantly improve blood pressure in diabetics with hypertension but not blood sugar levels. Colorectal cancer risk increases with age and birth cohort, suggesting a potential burden to society. Opioid treatment agreements may not reduce misuse, and a new complication from contaminated cocaine ...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 31, 2010

Some bisphosphonates users unfamiliar with drug's possible side effects on oral health

A study found that patients taking bisphosphonates are often uninformed about the drug's possible side effects on oral health, including bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw (BON). The researchers interviewed 73 participants and discovered that 82% were unsure if their physicians had informed them about potential adverse ...

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateMay 26, 2010

JCI table of contents: May 24, 2010

Two teams of researchers identified biomarkers that predict excellent graft function in kidney transplant recipients who stop taking immunosuppressive drugs. A molecular signature indicative of future organ failure was also found. The signatures may help physicians design personalized treatment regimens for kidney transplant recipients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 24, 2010

Most patients survive common thyroid cancer regardless of treatment

A recent study found that most patients with localized papillary thyroid cancer can expect favorable outcomes without treatment. The 20-year survival rate for these patients is estimated to be around 97%, similar to those who received treatment. Clinicians and patients can feel comfortable considering observation as an option.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateMay 17, 2010

Study evaluates importance of timeliness of care in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that more than 90% of breast cancer patients had their expectations met or exceeded with regard to dates of service. The study highlights the importance of balancing timeliness with safety, effectiveness and equity in patient satisfaction.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 3, 2010

Magnitude of overdiagnosis in cancer indicates need for strategies to address the problem

A recent review found that approximately 25% of breast cancers and 60% of prostate cancers detected by screening tests may not be destined to cause symptoms or death due to overdiagnosis. This phenomenon leads to unnecessary treatment and other harms, emphasizing the need for strategies to address it.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 22, 2010

Preoperative/neoadjuvant therapy in pancreatic cancer

A systematic review of 111 studies involving 4,394 patients found that a third could undergo resection after neoadjuvant therapy, with similar survival rates to those judged resectable before treatment. The study suggests including locally advanced/unresectable tumors in neoadjuvant protocols.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 20, 2010