Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
A recent study by Crystal Lim found that obesity prevention programs combining nutrition and exercise components over an extended period had the most success in changing students' daily behaviors. Successful programs also included evidence-based strategies like goal setting, problem solving, and self-regulation techniques.
A recent study monitored the Italian province of Pescara for 18 months and found no increased risk of serious diseases among vaccinated individuals. The study revealed that vaccinated persons were more protected against COVID-19 and had lower rates of deaths and disease occurrences compared to non-vaccinated individuals.
The study found that estimated national costs of self-injury mortality rose by 143% from $0.46 trillion to $1.12 trillion over a 20-year period, primarily driven by increases in opioid and alcohol-related deaths. West Virginia has the highest per capita cost at $6,534, with total suicide costs increasing 58% to $502.7 billion.
A single dose of azithromycin has been shown to decrease sepsis and death by half in women in labor, making it an important tool for keeping mothers safe before, during, and after delivery. The antibiotic was found to be beneficial for vaginal childbirth as well, reducing mortality rates and the risk of developing sepsis.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have designed a soft and breathable material that can be worn on the skin without causing discomfort. The material, made from liquid-metal elastomer composite, has integrated antibacterial and antiviral properties to prevent the formation of harmful pathogens.
A new study found that long-term voluntary wheel running improved skeletal muscle and bone parameters in female mice, but the effects varied depending on body weight. High body weight was more beneficial for muscle and bone health with aging, especially when combined with exercise.
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have successfully developed an allergen-specific inhibitor that prevents peanut allergic reactions in mice. The inhibitor effectively masks the immune system's ability to recognize the allergen, allowing it to fly under the radar without initiating a dangerous response.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement outlines ideal foundational requirements for stroke program development and growth. The guidelines aim to minimize inconsistencies and improve services provided by certified stroke centers across the U.S., emphasizing leadership, personnel resources, and quality improvement.
The American Heart Association is recognizing 10 leading stroke scientists who have made significant contributions to the field of stroke research. Among them, Dr. Cheryl Bushnell will be honored with the Ralph L. Sacco Outstanding Stroke Research Mentor Award for her exceptional mentorship and research in women's issues related to str...
Women who followed most aspects of a healthy lifestyle had about half the risk of long COVID compared to those without any healthy lifestyle factors. Maintaining a healthy body weight and adequate sleep were strongly associated with lower risk of long COVID.
A large-scale observational study from China demonstrates a strong link between ideal cardiovascular health and lower mortality rates. Individuals with higher scores on behavioral and medical factors had approximately a 50% lower risk of all-cause, CVD, and respiratory mortality compared to those with lower scores.
Research highlights underuse of dual blood thinners in women after minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), with potential benefits for stroke prevention. A study analyzed electronic health records of 2,953 adults and found that women were less likely to receive the treatment regimen, despite evidence suggesting its effectiveness.
A new study found that Black and Hispanic stroke survivors in the US are less likely to receive treatment for common complications, despite improved overall stroke survival rates. Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2002 to 2022 and matched patients based on 41 factors to minimize biases.
A new lifestyle-related biomarker, gluconic acid, is associated with high blood pressure and ischemic stroke in Black adults. The study suggests that a blood test measuring metabolites may help determine if diet and exercise are effective in lowering stroke risk.
A recent study found that recurrent stroke risk has declined over the past 20 years, with a greater decrease observed among women compared to men in South Texas. The study analyzed data from nearly 6,000 first-time ischemic stroke survivors and found that lifestyle changes and medication can help prevent recurrent strokes.
Adults living in neighborhoods with dense fast food and unhealthy food environments, known as
A new study finds that Mexican American stroke survivors are less likely to receive intensive rehabilitation services compared to non-Hispanic white peers. Nearly one-third of all stroke survivors in the study did not receive any rehabilitation within 90 days of their stroke.
Researchers found that patients treated with butylphthalide experienced milder neurological symptoms and better functioning at three months after a stroke compared to those who received a placebo. The study suggests potential benefits of this celery seed-derived medication in treating ischemic strokes.
A large Dutch study found that the BCG vaccine does not protect elderly people with co-morbidities against COVID-19 symptoms. The study analyzed 6,112 participants and showed no difference in disease manifestations or hospitalizations between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo.
Researchers discovered that bone marrow transplants can halt the development and progression of brain blood vessel disease in adults with sickle cell disease. The study found that receiving stem cell transplants led to positive changes in blood vessels, reducing the risk of stroke among patients with the condition.
A new smartphone application called FAST.AI uses machine learning algorithms to recognize facial asymmetry, arm weakness, and speech changes in people experiencing a stroke. The app's accuracy was validated through a study involving nearly 270 patients with acute stroke, showing promise as a tool for prompt individuals to seek care.
Researchers discovered a strong association between loneliness, lack of social support, and various dementia risk factors. The study found that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as physical activity and smoking habits, can impact social isolation and ADRD risk.
A recent review in CMAJ provides comprehensive guidance on diagnosing and managing migraine attacks. It emphasizes a stratified approach to treatment, empowering patients to choose medications tailored to their needs and attack symptoms.
A new study found that UK soft drink taxes led to an 8% reduction in obesity among 10-11 year old girls, with greatest reductions seen in most deprived areas. The tax, introduced in 2018, was associated with a decrease in childhood obesity rates.
Researchers found that the F-box gene FBXC-58 is a novel mediator of dietary restriction effects on extending the health span of Caenorhabditis elegans. FBXC-58 prevents muscle aging and extends longevity through an S6 kinase-dependent pathway.
Concordia researchers analyzed muscle and fat mass data from a large US sample population to find that high levels of fat mass are linked to poorer overall health. While BMI was surprisingly effective in predicting some cardiometabolic outcomes, the study suggests new body-composition phenotypes may be a better predictor.
An evidence-based fall prevention program implemented in 33 medical units across 8 hospitals reduced non-injurious falls by 17% and injurious falls by 9%. The program resulted in $22 million in savings over a 5-year study period, with a cost of each fall estimated at $62,521.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that rurality is associated with a higher risk of heart failure among predominantly low-income individuals in the southeastern United States. The inequity highlights the need for targeted primary prevention efforts for rural populations.
A new study led by the University of California San Diego found that daily walking and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity significantly reduced the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia in senior women. With each additional 1,865 steps per day, the risk was lowered by 33%, while moderate-to-vigorous physical acti...
A new study found that using two insecticides on bed nets can prevent malaria by killing off resistant mosquito variants. The trial showed a significant reduction in malaria cases among people sleeping under dual-ingredient net treated with one pyrethroid and another active ingredient.
A study of 1,463 combat-deployed soldiers found significant associations between bullying/hazing and major depressive disorder, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, and substance use disorder. The findings highlight the need for efforts to prevent and address mental health problems among service members.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified a crucial mechanism that prevents cells from replicating extra DNA, reducing the risk of cancer and genome instability. The study reveals that a licensing protein called CDT1 acts as a brake on DNA replication, preventing it from progressing once licensed sites are established.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement emphasizes the importance of rapid evaluation for TIA, which can lead to full-blown stroke. The statement offers a standardized approach to evaluating people with suspected TIA, including guidance for hospitals in rural areas with limited resources.
A Dartmouth-led study found that team-based coaching significantly improves the risk of acquiring post-procedural acute kidney injury (AKI) when compared to other interventions. The Collaborative with Surveillance intervention reduced the odds of AKI by 46 percent, making it a promising approach to address this prevalent adverse event.
A trapped mountaineer survived 16 frigid hours in a crevasse on Denali, highlighting the importance of expert rescue efforts and proper treatment. The case study emphasizes the need for responders to continue extrication and treatment efforts even when survival seems impossible.
A study by researchers from Okayama University found that Japanese university students' willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups is associated with their thoughts regarding the health-belief model and oral health behaviors. The study suggests that the perceived benefit of undergoing regular check-ups drives young students toward...
Researchers found that patients with low comorbidity groups who received more frequent phone calls had improved outcomes, including reduced mortality and longer hospital stays. The intervention involved regular calls from nurses to monitor patient response and address any unusual symptoms.
A new study reveals that falls are nearly 50% among older Americans with dementia, emphasizing the importance of addressing environmental and health-related risk factors. Key findings highlight the need for tailored screening and prevention interventions specifically designed for this high-risk population.
Researchers have improved the FDA's equation for predicting drug interactions by addressing fundamental limitations and incorporating new models. The modified equation has shown a significantly increased accuracy of about 80%, which is expected to contribute to increasing the success rate of new drug development.
A UK program using magnesium sulfate to prevent cerebral palsy in premature babies has been shown to be both effective and cost-effective. The PReCePT program increased the use of magnesium sulfate by 9.5 percentage points on average, resulting in a lifetime saving of £3 million.
A study by UC Davis Health researchers found that telehealth visits saved patients around 53.7 million miles of travel, eliminated the need for 42.4 injuries and 0.7 fatalities, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 21,466 metric tons over two years.
A Rutgers study found that military service members who hide their suicidal thoughts and avoid behavioral health care tend to store their firearms unsafely. Those with undisclosed past year suicidal thoughts stored their firearms at home more often and with a locking device in place less often.
Researchers found that more frequent social determinant screenings and patient navigation in pharmacy care did not reduce healthcare utilization. The study calls for further investigation of pharmacy interventions to improve outcomes for specific patients or healthcare settings.
A study of 5,308 participants aged 50-64 found significant correlations between sedentary behavior and low fitness levels. Highly uneven fitness distribution was observed among groups at higher risk, including older adults, foreign-born individuals, and those with poor health and lifestyle habits.
A UMass Amherst study reveals that 61% of wellness visits for reproductive-age women (15-49) were with OB-GYNs, while chronic condition patients also relied heavily on these specialists. Key preventive services like pap tests and pelvic exams were more common in OB-GYN settings, whereas lipid testing was rare.
A Rutgers study found that Hispanic and Latino young men with higher education who were born in the US and speak mostly English at home are more likely to use e-cigarettes. The study analyzed data from 11,275 adult participants and found a high use of e-cigarettes among those under 45 years of age.
A study found that metformin use significantly reduces the risk of total knee and hip replacements in patients with type 2 diabetes. The researchers analyzed data from over 69,000 participants and discovered a significant association between metformin use and lower joint replacement rates.
A national survey of healthcare providers reveals that nearly 60% believe telehealth is 'dangerous' for older adults, while another 60% say it's an unrealistic option. However, 68% of clinicians report often or always working to prepare and account for older adults' physical and cognitive differences.
A new study reveals that child abuse and neglect are associated with significant excess public hospital costs in South Australia. The research found that individual costs increased with age and severity of abuse or neglect, resulting in an 18% cost penalty on the state's public hospital system.
A new hotline has shown promising results in preventing overdoses and saving lives by providing virtual supervision for people using substances alone. The National Overdose Response Service received over 2,100 calls from unique callers, with no reported deaths during a pilot period.
Researchers from Nagoya University found that 5G network telemedicine is effective in providing telerehabilitation and teletreatment in a remote community. The study showed that 5G transmitted high-definition images with low latency, reducing the need for physical therapist visits and improving patient outcomes.
A new study identifies anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) as a key factor in regulating cholesterol levels during the menopause transition. High AMH levels are associated with lower HDL-C, or good cholesterol, which may indicate cardiovascular risk despite its traditionally protective effects.
A new study found that extreme temperatures are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular death, particularly heart failure, which was the leading cause of death globally. The research analyzed data from 32 million cardiovascular deaths in 567 cities across 27 countries between 1979 and 2019.
Dr. Urbut's award-winning research explores a new framework to predict coronary artery disease throughout an individual's lifespan, incorporating genomic and nongenomic risk factors. The American Heart Association recognized her innovative work in improving cardiovascular disease prevention.
A study of 510 children with chronic kidney disease found that declining hemoglobin levels were associated with significant growth impairment even when above guideline-targeted levels. Lower hemoglobin values are linked to poorer growth, independent of kidney function and age.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the potential benefits and risks of complementary and alternative therapies for heart failure. The statement advises healthcare professionals to discuss CAM use with patients, monitor medication interactions, and consider pharmacists' consultations.
Administration of vaccine boosters to nursing home residents significantly reduces SARS-CoV-2 infections and hospitalizations. The study suggests that booster vaccination may play a crucial role in preventing COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality among vulnerable populations.
A new antimalarial drug, tafenoquine, is found to require a higher dose of 450mg to achieve cure rates of 85% compared to the current 300mg dose of 70%. The study suggests that the single-dose tafenoquine is not as effective as optimal primaquine treatment in preventing vivax malaria relapses in all endemic regions.
A WVU study found that children from non-traditional family structures, such as single-parent households and multi-generational families, face difficulties accessing healthcare. The research highlights the need for providers to be aware of the unique challenges faced by these families and to adapt their services accordingly.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 122 US-based COVID-19 clinical trials found female participants were underrepresented in treatment trials, while Asian and Black participants were underrepresented in prevention trials. Hispanic or Latino participants were overrepresented in treatment trials.