Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
Researchers found that host immune status significantly influences herpesvirus retinitis phenotypes and clinical outcomes. Acute retinal necrosis (ARN) is associated with a higher risk of retinal detachment, while cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR) follows an indolent course.
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is showing promising results in reducing clinical symptoms and severity of allergic diseases, including asthma and allergic rhinitis. The latest advances in AIT include innovative technologies and biomarkers that predict and monitor treatment response.
A University of Maryland study predicts that repealing Florida's measles vaccine mandate could spark the largest measles epidemic in the US in nearly 500 years. The study shows that even without mandate removal, Florida's vaccine-induced herd immunity threshold is below the level needed to protect against sustained transmission.
The new guidelines, developed by leading experts, focus on improving sepsis care by strengthening systems for diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and quality improvement. Emerging technologies, such as next-generation diagnostics and artificial intelligence, are also being explored to enhance sepsis care.
The study demonstrates the FIND Lp(a) model's ability to identify individuals with high Lp(a) more than twice as likely as the overall population with ASCVD. The model supports targeted Lp(a) screening, accelerating universal screening adoption and enhancing cardiovascular risk management.
A new study reanalysed data from eight randomised trials on mammography screening, finding overdiagnosis to be less than 5%. The researchers suggest that previous high estimates of overdiagnosis were based on incomplete evidence and taken out of context.
Fanghui Shi, a new faculty member at the Arnold School of Public Health, has been awarded a $2.2 million NIH grant to study patterns of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and predict who is at risk for HIV infection. Her research aims to develop practical guidelines for healthcare providers to improve HIV prevention and care.
A consensus paper recommends population-wide screening of children for type 1 diabetes, identifying cases before symptoms appear. Screening tests detect islet autoantibodies, which progress at a similar rate regardless of family history, and confirm diagnosis through a step-by-step process.
A study of 60,980 US adults with autoimmune rheumatic conditions found that those who received updated COVID-19 vaccines had a 69% lower adjusted odds of COVID-19-related hospitalization compared to those who received only the initial series vaccines or were unvaccinated. The completion of the initial series and booster vaccination als...
Even low levels of nighttime light exposure can lead to structural changes in the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers analyzed data from 11,017 participants and found that those exposed to higher levels of light saw a thickening of the heart's walls and reduced flexibility during a heartbeat.
A high-dose flu vaccine has been shown to reduce hospitalizations for older people with lung disease, including COPD and asthma. The vaccine reduced hospital admissions for flu or pneumonia by 8.8% compared to the standard-dose vaccine.
A new study reveals a seasonal pattern in community-acquired acute kidney injury in Japan, with incidence peaking in summer and a larger seasonal increase among those aged 19 years and younger. The study highlights the importance of summer prevention strategies.
Researchers will develop a molecular diagnostic test that quantifies small RNA species to detect fetal oxygen deprivation during labor. The technology aims to provide clinically relevant values for stratifying the risk of babies during labor.
A new study at the University of Oklahoma is testing an interactive app called Connect2Care to increase prostate cancer screening among Black men in Oklahoma. The app provides culturally tailored education, guides users through at-home PSA testing, and connects them with medical professionals.
Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men, with 60% diagnosed in men 65 and older. Clinical trials like Alliance's help improve early detection and treatment, reducing mortality rates by half since 1993. These trials also explore new treatments and survivorship strategies.
A new precision oncology paper critiques the methodology used in a 2025 study on mRNA vaccine residual DNA, arguing that it systematically underestimates DNA impurities. The analysis highlights key methodological flaws, including primer design, sample preparation, and analytical platform limitations.
A new research tool, PGS-TRI, analyzes family data to understand how genetics and environment contribute to autism risk. The tool provides a more precise look at how 'nature' and 'nurture' interact within families, allowing researchers to better understand the complex factors that shape a child's health.
Researchers found that active participation in colorectal cancer screening was associated with a 43% lower risk of dying from the disease, compared to just a 26% lower risk for those invited to screening. This study highlights the importance of taking part in colorectal cancer screening to save lives.
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology emphasizes the significance of clinical trials in advancing breast cancer treatments and early detection. The organization's work has led to a 44% decline in breast cancer mortality rates among women since 1989.
An observational study found that older adults with consistently elevated NT-proBNP concentrations had a significantly higher risk for cardiovascular disease and death. Those whose levels returned to normal had a comparable risk to those who never showed signs of heart stress.
A new book by University of Virginia Health System expert Daniel J. Cox outlines a practical alternative to medication for managing pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. The GEM program emphasizes smart eating, physical activity, and listening to the body to regulate blood sugar levels.
Researchers have discovered compact viral RNA elements that can stabilize mRNA, increasing protein production. These elements, called tailons, work by extending the poly(A) tail of mRNA, slowing its degradation. This breakthrough offers a simple way to develop longer-lasting and more efficient mRNA technologies for various applications.
Researchers found that high-intensity sports involving explosive movements stimulated bone formation most effectively. Recreational football and handball were associated with increases in substances linked to bone formation, while walking and traditional gym-based exercises were less effective. This suggests that low-intensity exercise...
A randomized clinical trial found that dexamethasone eye drops reduced the progression of retinopathy of prematurity to severe disease requiring invasive treatment in preterm infants. However, no differences in adverse events were observed.
Researchers explore how engineered lanthanide carriers can tune the optical and magnetic properties of ions for improved signal contrast and reduced background signals in biomedical imaging. The study highlights opportunities for multimodal imaging, theranostics, and AI-guided probe design.
The study highlights how school-entry vaccine requirements strengthen the connection between healthcare and education systems, ultimately improving children's health outcomes. By requiring vaccinations at school entry points, these policies create a valuable interface for public health interventions.
Recent progress in lanthanide carriers is mapped to improve biomedical imaging and diagnosis, combining optical, X-ray, and magnetic resonance imaging techniques. These carriers enable high-resolution imaging with tunability for different applications, reducing tissue damage and enhancing image clarity.
High LDL-C led to 3.6 million deaths and 90.7 million disability-adjusted life years in 2023, despite declining mortality rates. The absolute burden increased due to population growth and aging, with regional disparities emerging.
A new study found that older adults who took a daily multivitamin had significantly better measures of functional health after 3 years compared to those who took a placebo. The findings suggest that a daily multivitamin can help preserve cognitive abilities and benefit blood circulation and physical stamina.
A survey of U.S. adults found that most are unaware of the CDC's vaccine recommendations during pregnancy, with uncertainty prevailing across four vaccines and the Covid-19 vaccine. Women aged 18-49 were significantly more informed about the recommended vaccines than other age groups.
Researchers developed a framework to integrate AI into hospitals, emphasizing patient care, staff experience, and economic sustainability. The Total Mission Value framework aims to ensure high-quality patient care remains the top priority amidst AI's transformative potential.
The updated clinical guidelines broaden statin eligibility by looking beyond the next 10 years to a person's risk over several decades. The new recommendations apply to approximately 56.6% of adults ages 30-79, with an additional 21.5 million Americans now eligible.
A nationally representative analysis found substantial gaps in LDL-C control, with increasing disparities across primary prevention categories and underuse of lipid-lowering therapy. The study provides a contemporary population-level benchmark for the updated guideline framework.
Researchers developed DeepHHF, an AI model that identifies patients at high risk of heart failure up to five years in advance. The model analyzes standard ECG recordings and detects subtle abnormalities that are often imperceptible to the human eye.
A new machine learning version of the Martin-Hopkins equation accurately assesses LDL cholesterol risk with minimal difference to the original, making it accessible to all laboratories. The simplified code enables clinicians and patients to make better decisions about starting treatments that prevent heart attacks and strokes.
A blood test measuring phosphorylated tau 217 (P-tau217) can estimate an individual's risk of developing cognitive impairment over 2, 5, and 10 years. Higher P-tau217 levels are associated with increased risk of progression to cognitive impairment in cognitively unimpaired older adults.
A review of hundreds of studies suggests that polyphenol-rich foods like berries, tea, and olive oil may support healthy brain aging by reducing inflammation and promoting nerve cell function. While no single food can prevent Alzheimer's disease, a balanced diet rich in plant-based foods may help preserve cognitive function over time.
A new study found that simple weekly electronic symptom check-ins with care teams significantly improves the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. The benefits were notable among patient groups that historically faced barriers to care, including Black patients and those with less formal education.
A cohort study of California public high schools found that dedicated health courses were associated with modestly lower prevalence in several common forms of adolescent substance use. The study suggests that sustained, dedicated health coursework may be a scalable component of school-based substance use prevention.
A study of 193 countries finds that armed conflict leads to more measles cases, even a year after fighting ends. Socioeconomic decline is the strongest connection between conflict and measles, as it erodes health foundations and population vulnerability.
A phase III trial is investigating whether an immune-boosting drug can help keep early-stage lung cancer from coming back after surgery. Researchers aim to enroll 336 participants with stage I non-small cell lung cancer and determine if the treatment reduces recurrence.
A new study found that socioeconomic challenges hinder lung cancer screening adherence and equity, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve patient experience. Lower-income participants reported greater discomfort or anxiety during low-dose chest CT screening.
The study's findings suggest that adults can reduce their likelihood of severe COVID-19-associated outcomes by obtaining a 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccination. Receipt of the vaccine was associated with additional protection against medically attended COVID-19, including emergency department/urgent care encounters and hospitalizations.
Digital innovations and AI can address chronic pain management gaps, while mitigating online misinformation threats. However, concerns surround equitable access to longevity medicine due to high costs and health literacy barriers. Equitable AI design is crucial for inclusive care delivery.
A new poll shows nearly all Michiganders age 50 and over value keeping their brains healthy, but less than half know daily habits can reduce dementia risk. Only half practice key brain-protecting habits.
Researchers found that over-the-counter probiotics contain only 36 unique species of bacteria, with most common species being forms of Lactobacillus. The analysis suggests a lack of consistency in the combination of species used to support gut health and vaginal health claims.
A study of over 3,200 emergency department patients across the US found that nearly all participants were aware of influenza vaccination, but 58.4% had not received a flu vaccine within the past year. Among those who declined vaccination, fear of side effects and lack of information were common concerns.
Researchers emphasize the need for large-scale population studies to assess the risks of newborn genome screening and minimize overdiagnosis. The study highlights that most genetic research has been conducted in individuals with a condition or high-risk family, resulting in underestimated risk estimates.
The University of Virginia has joined SPARK GLOBAL to leverage resources and expertise in accelerating the development of new medicines. This collaboration aims to reduce time from lab discoveries to clinic trials, delivering tangible healthcare solutions to patients.
The University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center has received a grant from the American Cancer Society to implement HPV self-collection in primary care settings. The pilot aims to make cervical cancer screening more accessible for patients who face barriers to traditional screening.
A large Japanese study found that maintaining a healthier profile with lower lifestyle and health risks can significantly lower dementia risk in people with one or no APOE ε4 alleles. However, individuals carrying two APOE ε4 alleles may require different preventive or therapeutic approaches.
Dr. John Findley, a physician executive with extensive experience in lifestyle medicine, has been named the new CEO of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM). He will lead the organization in advancing its mission to establish lifestyle medicine as a standard of care for every patient, every time.
A new leishmaniasis vaccine, developed using CRISPR gene-editing technology, is set to begin testing in healthy people for its safety and immune response. The vaccine has shown strong results in mice and has cleared a key FDA hurdle, paving the way for Phase 2 trials aiming to understand its effectiveness.
Researchers highlight latest developments in pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of MASLD and IPFD, revealing correlations with chronic diseases like liver cancer and pancreatic cancer. Innovative treatments, such as AI-driven approaches and organ-targeted therapies, show promise for precision prevention and therapy.
The American Cancer Society has endorsed two new types of stool tests and recommends limiting the use of blood tests for colorectal cancer screening. The guidelines aim to encourage people to get screened while improving detection rates.
In a low-cost, two-hour educational intervention, Brazilian medical students addressed common misconceptions about vaccines and increased confidence among parents and caregivers. The session was notably receptive to information from medical students, suggesting a promising approach to building vaccine confidence in primary care.
Researchers at CNIC identify mitochondrial complex I as a key checkpoint for dendritic cell activation. Restoring its function restores immune responses against viruses and tumors. The study paves the way for new strategies in vaccines and cancer immunotherapies.
A nationally representative survey of empaneled adults found that most Americans understand how STIs spread, but there are significant gaps in public knowledge about which infections can be prevented through vaccination. The survey also revealed strong awareness of common transmission pathways and some basic facts about STIs.
A new study by the University of Southampton has found that reusable catheters are just as safe for patients as single-use ones and do not increase the risk of urinary tract infections. The study followed hundreds of patients for a year and discovered that those who tested reusable catheters used 35 per cent fewer antibiotics.
A study of 551,706 pregnancies in Ontario found that 8% were not screened for syphilis at all, while 79% were screened in the first trimester. The authors suggest that relying solely on traditional prenatal care models may not be sufficient to reach populations facing barriers to accessing care.