Preventive Medicine
Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
Pregnant women’s mental images are directly linked to vaccine hesitancy and uptake
A study of over 400 pregnant women found that vivid mental images are directly linked to their opinion of vaccines and whether they get vaccinated. Positive mental images were associated with increased vaccination rates, while negative images predicted higher hesitancy towards certain vaccines.
Cash transfers in the perinatal period and investigations of infant maltreatment
LJI scientists take crucial step in developing world's first measles treatment
Increased estimated tubular filtrate phosphate concentration accelerates age-related decline in kidney function
New heart disease risk prediction tool validated globally
New study finds low-dose eye drops successful in managing adult myopia for 24 hours
A new study published in Eye and Vision finds that one drop of low-dose atropine can produce daylong effects in managing myopia. The researchers found that the drop showed clear changes in pupil size and focusing ability, but no short-term structural effects on the eye.
New Canadian recommendations aim to make screening for alcohol misuse easier
The new recommendations provide a practical approach for clinicians to initiate conversations about alcohol use and identify potential problems earlier. The guidelines update offer easy-to-use tables with tips on reducing alcohol use, helping clinicians focus on patients' unique needs while saving time when circumstances allow.
Targeted maternal screening could prevent rare, deadly leukemia in the US
A new study found that targeted maternal screening can prevent adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type 1. The research identified high disease rates among non-Hispanic Caribbean-born US residents, particularly in Florida and New York.
Your nose is a battlefield
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that FluMist can trigger an immune response directly in nasal tissue, training immune cells to recognize and fight influenza virus infection. This response stays in the upper airways and cannot be detected via blood samples.
New study suggests seasonal flu vaccines may reduce severity of H5N1 bird flu infections
A new study suggests that seasonal influenza vaccines may significantly reduce the risk of death from H5N1 infection. The study found that vaccines including a specific component, neuraminidase N1, reduced H5N1-related mortality by approximately 73 percent in vaccinated animals.
Re-conceptualizing Parkinson’s disease as a lifelong neurobiological trajectory: A framework for prevention
A new review proposes a prevention-focused framework for understanding Parkinson's disease risk, highlighting the role of early-life vulnerability, environmental exposures, and resilience factors. The study suggests that susceptibility to PD may begin earlier in life through interactions between biology and environment.
Bereavement and risk of cardiovascular disease before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
A cohort study found that bereavement was associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The strongest association was observed for partner or sibling loss during the pandemic, highlighting the importance of targeted clinical monitoring and preventive care for bereaved individuals.
New research from the COSMOS trial reveals more than 75% of older adults have used complementary therapies
A new study reveals that over 75% of older adults have used complementary health approaches, including mindfulness, yoga, tai chi, acupuncture, and more. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to discuss the risks and benefits of these therapies with their patients.
Preschool children born with heart defects have greater risk of developing behavioral problems
A recent study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics has found that preschool children born with heart defects are at a greater risk of developing behavioral problems, including ADHD and peer relationship issues. The study suggests that a cognitively stimulating home environment may help reduce this risk.
Images and risk communication boost motivation for better heart health
A study from Umeå University found that visualizing ultrasound images of atherosclerosis, combined with a motivational dialogue, increases motivation to improve lifestyle habits and take preventive medication. This results in lower estimated risk of cardiovascular disease and better development of risk factors over time.
Hidden epidemic: Metabolic disorders drive the next wave of liver cancer
The study reveals that metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is emerging as a major contributor to liver cancer worldwide and in China. Researchers call for integrated global prevention and early detection strategies to address this growing burden.
Colorectal cancer screening and health-related social needs in a national sample of US adults
A national study found that unmet health-related social needs are associated with lower colorectal cancer screening rates, particularly among adults aged 50-64. Addressing these needs may support age-specific strategies to improve screening rates.
Without the right tests, the best medicines make no difference
A new analysis from UC San Francisco argues that diagnostics are being overlooked, slowing progress against major diseases despite advances in targeted therapies. The study suggests that nearly half of the world's population lacks adequate access to diagnostics due to inadequate investment and insurance reimbursement.
Being physically fit helps prevent diseases
A new study confirms a direct link between good physical fitness and reduced risk of suffering from over 30 diseases. Individuals with high genetic predisposition to be physically fit exhibit lower risks of cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and asthma, while also showing better health in metabolic and inflammatory aspects.
ASH and ISTH publish new clinical practice guidelines on anticoagulant prophylaxis in pediatric patients at risk of blood clots
The American Society of Hematology and the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis have released comprehensive guidelines for anticoagulant prophylaxis in non-cardiac pediatric patients at risk of venous thromboembolism. The guidelines outline best practices for preventing life-threatening complications in children.
Women with diabetes less likely to receive preventive care and some screenings
A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that women with diabetes are less likely to receive recommended preventive care services such as conception counseling and breast/cervical cancer screening. This oversight puts them at risk for preventable medical conditions like pregnancy complications.
Activating your brain while sitting helps reduce dementia risk
Adults who engaged in extended durations of mentally passive sedentary behaviors had a higher risk of dementia. Replacing passive with mentally active sedentary behaviors was shown to reduce the risk of dementia onset in later life.
Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but more than 100 countries still fall short of the global maternal mortality target as progress slows worldwide
Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but progress has slowed in recent years and remains uneven across countries. Improvements in access to quality care could substantially reduce mortality, particularly in high-burden regions.
Combining small changes to sleep, diet, and exercise could be key to reducing heart attack and stroke risk
Research shows combining small improvements in sleep, diet quality, and physical activity can significantly reduce major cardiovascular events. Making modest shifts in daily routines, such as sleeping more, eating more vegetables, and exercising more, were associated with a 10% reduction in risk.
Isolation and financial hardship linked with lower odds of receiving preventive health care in the U.S.
A study of 281,582 adults found that those experiencing social and physical isolation were less likely to receive preventive health services. Financial hardship was a significant factor contributing to these findings, with 82.1% of physically isolated individuals experiencing material deprivation.
Insurance churn and diabetes outcomes among patients with low income
A case-control study found that insurance churn is associated with poorer diabetes management, increased insulin use, and acute complications. Continuous insurance coverage for low-income diabetic patients may lower risk of costly preventable complications.
Largest study of its kind tests hydration strategy for kidney stones
The largest behavioral study on kidney stone prevention tested a hydration program with Bluetooth-enabled smart water bottles and personalized hydration goals. While participants did hydrate more, the increase wasn't large enough to lower symptomatic kidney stone recurrence across the group.
How old are we really?
Researchers develop method using biomarkers to calculate individual biological age, finding significant differences in age-related changes between men and women. The study also identifies clinically relevant biomarkers linked to biological age, opening up new opportunities for preventive medicine.
Goethe university study reveals injury risks in professional dance
Professional dancers experience high levels of physical strain and ergonomic stress, with 25% developing osteoarthritis by their late twenties. The study suggests optimizing training sessions, flooring, and organizational changes to reduce injury risk and wear-related conditions.
Long-term trends in pediatric self-injury in high-income countries
A systematic review of 42 studies reveals a rising trend in self-injury among children and youth in high-income countries, with significant variability across countries. The findings highlight the need for effective, contextually informed prevention strategies to curb this growing concern.
Adverse childhood experiences and treatment-resistant depression
A cohort study found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) were associated with an increased risk of treatment-resistant depression in adults. Preventing ACEs and incorporating ACE history into clinical assessment may help identify individuals at elevated risk for treatment resistance.
Mothers exposure to microbes protect their newborn babies against infection
A study found that babies who develop severe E. coli infections lack sufficient germ-fighting antibodies, which mothers transfer to their babies. The research suggests that these antibodies protect against infection, and developing a screening test to identify high-risk newborns could prevent severe illnesses.
Severe COVID-19, flu facilitate lung cancer months or years later, new research shows
Severe COVID-19 and influenza infections can prime the lungs for cancer development, according to new research. Vaccination, however, largely prevents these changes, suggesting a reduced risk of lung cancer.
Female reproductive cancers and the sex gap in survival
A population-level cohort study of 20 low-mortality countries found that females aged 35-60 have higher cancer mortality rates than males, despite similar treatment and diagnostic pathways. The study highlights the need for targeted action to improve the prevention, early detection, and treatment of female reproductive cancers.
COSMOS trial results show daily multivitamin use may slow biological aging
A daily multivitamin may slow biological aging in older adults, with benefits seen in those with accelerated biological age. The study found slowing in all five epigenetic clocks, including those predictive of mortality, equating to about four months less biological aging over two years.
Maternal acetaminophen use and child neurodevelopment
A study in Taiwan found a positive association between maternal prenatal acetaminophen use and increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. However, associations were not observed in sibling-matched analyses, suggesting unaddressed sources of bias.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology highlights new and open colorectal cancer trials in March
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
Incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest on a postholiday weekday
A nationwide cohort study found a significantly elevated incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests on post-holiday weekdays, particularly among vulnerable populations after consecutive rest days. The study supports enhanced emergency preparedness and targeted public health messaging during holiday periods.
Stark divide: Americans more confident in career scientists at US health agencies than leaders
A new survey from the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds that Americans are more confident in career scientists at federal health agencies such as the CDC, NIH, and FDA, than in their leaders. The survey also reveals a significant gap in confidence between career scientists and agency leaders, with only 5% of Americans expressing
How much sleep do teens get? Six-seven hours.
Teens are getting significantly less sleep, with over 50% reporting less than 5 hours per night, a rise from 2007 when it was around 30%. This short sleep is linked to emotional regulation issues, poor academic performance, and increased risks for obesity and diabetes.
Mount Sinai, Uniformed Services University join forces to predict and prevent diseases before they start
The ORIGIN study uses advanced molecular tools to identify risk factors and early warning signals in stored blood samples from up to 13,000 service members. By analyzing these data, researchers aim to predict and prevent diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders years before symptoms appear.
THRIVE: Transforming health: Reclaiming intrinsic vitality for everyone
The THRIVE team is developing a PROSPR Intrinsic Capacity score to predict 20-year health outcomes, using wearable data, blood-based biomarkers, and health surveys. The score aims to enable accessible, scalable monitoring of aging and improve interventions.
GLP-1 drugs combined with healthy lifestyle habits linked with reduced cardiovascular risk among diabetes patients
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System found that using GLP-1 receptor agonists in combination with adhering to healthy lifestyle habits significantly reduces cardiovascular risk among individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study showed that these two stra...
Adolescent cannabis use and risk of psychotic, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders
A cohort study found that adolescent cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders, particularly psychotic and bipolar conditions. The study's results inform the development of interventions and policies to prevent or delay adolescent cannabis use.
Medicare patients get different stroke care depending on plan, analysis reveals
A study by University of Virginia Health System researchers found that Medicare Advantage patients had better access to preventive care and rehabilitation after a stroke, leading to faster recovery times. In contrast, traditional Medicare patients were less likely to receive these services due to prior authorization requirements.
What if we could catch disease earlier—Before symptoms start?
Researchers propose a new framework to detect chronic diseases earlier by tracking individual biological changes. Advances in technology and AI enable the analysis of complex patterns from wearable devices and biological samples.
CHEST announces first class of certified critical care advanced practice providers awarded CCAPP Designation
The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) has certified its first class of critical care advanced practice providers with the CCAPP designation. This achievement recognizes their dedication to high-quality patient care and their role in supporting multidisciplinary critical care teams. The CCAPP certification is designed to vali...
Spirituality and harmful or hazardous alcohol and other drug use
A meta-analysis of 55 studies found a significant protective association between spirituality and hazardous alcohol and drug use. The study suggests that spiritual practices may be effective in preventing or reducing the risks associated with these substances.
New antibody–drug conjugate strategy to block HIV infection
Researchers developed antibody–drug conjugates that combine CD4 mimic and neutralizing antibodies to target HIV entry, showing seven times better efficacy than existing approaches. The strategy aims to block HIV before it enters the host cell, offering a more targeted therapeutic profile and potentially reducing adverse effects.
Researchers question editorial bias in COVID-19 vaccine debate
A new commentary raises concerns about editorial bias in scientific publishing, particularly in relation to COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficacy. The authors highlight the rejection of a case report and literature review that raised potential links between mRNA vaccines and rare blood cancers.
A wearable textile sensor sets new standard for continuous heart and vessel monitoring
A new wearable textile sensor, TAESS, integrates electrocardiography and impedance plethysmography to measure core cardiovascular parameters continuously. It enables real-time tracking of blood pressure, stroke volume, cardiac output, heart rate, and systemic vascular resistance during daily activities.
High blood pressure: trained laypeople improve healthcare in rural Africa
A study in Lesotho shows that trained laypeople can achieve better blood pressure control in their community compared to normal treatment in healthcare facilities. The layperson-assisted model was found to be safe and effective, reducing hospital admissions and improving access to healthcare for underserved rural communities.
Shorter treatment regimens are safe options for preventing active tuberculosis
A one- and three-month antibiotic treatment regimens both had few adverse reactions and high rates of completion in preventing active tuberculosis, says a new study published in PLOS Medicine. The regimens were deemed successful and neither proved superior to the other.
Mortality among youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy
Research highlights increased mortality risks among individuals with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy compared to the general population. The study's findings can inform public health strategies to address health disparities and excess mortality associated with developmental disabilities.
Why aren’t more older adults getting flu or COVID-19 shots?
A recent poll found that 42% of people over 50 haven't gotten either flu or COVID-19 vaccines in the past six months. The leading reason for not getting vaccinated was a lack of perceived need, despite clear evidence showing vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness and death in older adults.
Surgical innovation cuts ovarian cancer risk by nearly 80%
A new study confirms that opportunistic salpingectomy (OS), which involves removing fallopian tubes during hysterectomy or tubal ligation, reduces the risk of serous ovarian cancer by nearly 80%. The procedure leaves ovaries intact, preserving hormone production and minimizing side effects.
Opportunistic salpingectomy for prevention of tubo-ovarian carcinoma
A study published in JAMA found that salpingectomy significantly lowers the risk of developing tubo-ovarian carcinoma. The procedure, typically performed during unrelated pelvic or abdominal surgery, is now recommended as a preventive measure for eligible women.
Life-course psychosocial stress and risk of dementia and stroke in middle-aged and older adults
Adverse experiences throughout life increase dementia and stroke risks, with depression as a mediating factor. Implementing life-course interventions addressing psychological trauma and mental health can reduce neurovascular disease burden.
New platform could develop vaccines faster than ever before
The new platform developed by UVA Health scientists can produce vaccines much faster, cheaper, and more easily than traditional approaches. The platform's proof-of-concept demonstrates its ability to produce highly immunogenic vaccines that can be manufactured at extremely low cost.