Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
The USPSTF recommends prescribing statins for adults aged 40-75 with one or more CVD risk factors and estimated 10-year CVD risk of 10% or greater. For those aged 76 or older, the evidence is insufficient to make a recommendation. Statin use can significantly reduce CVD events and mortality in this population.
A quality improvement program increased pneumococcal vaccination rates from 53% to 70% in adults aged 18-64 years with stage 4 and 5 chronic kidney disease. The intervention, which utilized electronic best practice alerts within the electronic medical record, improved vaccination rates primarily among this high-risk group.
A study of nearly 3,200 individuals found that electric scooter riders were more likely to be young and intoxicated when injured. Implementing stricter helmet and alcohol policies, improving infrastructure, and awareness campaigns may help reduce injuries among electric scooter users.
Researchers found lower stages of breast cancer in women aged 40-49 compared to those aged 50-59, with a significant decrease in stage 4 cases. This suggests that early detection through regular mammograms can lead to better health outcomes and survival rates.
Public health researchers developed an interactive web-based guide to support family physicians in addressing COVID-19 vaccine concerns. The guide provides resources to counsel patients on safety, co-morbidities, conspiracy theories, and other issues, promoting better conversations and vaccine uptake.
Despite electronic health records, gaps in communication between primary care physicians and specialist physicians persist. The study found that 22% of PCPs report sending clinical information to specialists at the time of referral, and less than 35% receive information back after consultation.
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has launched a two-week training course for biologics development and manufacturing, targeting low- and middle-income countries. The program aims to enhance local production of vaccines and biologics in LMICs to address vaccine inequity and global pandemic preparedness.
A major public health concern, consumer product-related traumatic brain injuries have increased significantly in school-aged children, peaking in 2012 and declining in boys but increasing substantially among girls. The study highlights the need for awareness and training on screening and treatment of TBI in children.
Researchers investigate regulatory frameworks governing preimplantation genetic testing in Japan, the UK, and Western Australia. The study highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate disease severity and make informed decisions about treatment.
A study found that over 60% of parents of children with kidney disease or hypertension are unsure or unwilling to vaccinate their child against COVID-19. Effective vaccines exist to protect children from COVID-19, and the findings highlight the need for clear communication to address parental concerns.
The USPSTF recommends against using beta carotene or vitamin E supplements to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) or cancer. Inflammation and oxidative stress play a role in both CVD and cancer, but dietary supplements have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects, leading to proposals for their use as preventive measures.
This supplement explores the complex contributors to obesity and obesity-related health disparities, highlighting the role of social determinants, behavioral factors, and biological influences. Researchers propose strategies for improving population wellbeing and inform healthcare and public policy approaches.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that moderate drinkers who binge drink are at a higher risk of developing multiple alcohol problems. Researchers analyzed survey responses from over 1,200 adults and found that most cases of binge drinking occurred among individuals who were average moderate drinkers.
The study reveals disparities in receiving smoking cessation assistance based on regional differences, with some areas having significantly lower access. The research highlights the importance of addressing these disparities to ensure equitable healthcare for smokers.
Dr. Mona Fouad has been recognized for her leadership in health disparities research and commitment to equity in healthcare. Her work has led to the development of rigorous research and interventions to make healthcare more accessible to historically underserved populations.
Researchers at Kobe University and Hiroshima University have developed a biomarker that can diagnose Parkinson's disease from blood serum samples. The 'P450 inhibition assay' uses 12 different human P450s to detect changes in metabolites, allowing for accurate diagnosis with an accuracy rate of 85-88%. This breakthrough could lead to f...
New experiments in mice contradict fears that COVID-19 vaccination affects fetal growth and fertility. Vaccination is shown to protect the fetus from infection, while infection reduces fetal growth. The study adds further evidence against popular claims of vaccine harms during pregnancy.
The USPSTF states that primary open-angle glaucoma affects an estimated 2.7 million people in the US, with Black and Hispanic/Latino individuals being disproportionately affected. The organization concludes that screening for this condition is insufficient due to current evidence.
The USPSTF concludes that there is not enough evidence to support regular screening for impaired visual acuity in older adults. This recommendation applies to asymptomatic adults over 65 who do not have known vision problems. The number of affected adults is estimated at 2.9 million in 2015.
A new study reveals that ingestible sensor-enabled Truvada can identify patterns of medication taking behavior that may put individuals at risk of prophylactic failure. The system captures individual adherence patterns in real-time, allowing for tailored guidance and support.
Researchers found that Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins rub against corals to agitate tiny polyps, releasing mucus with antibacterial and antioxidative properties. This discovery suggests the mucus regulates the dolphin's skin microbiome and treats infections.
Adults with student loan debt face a higher risk of cardiovascular illness and may experience undermined health benefits from post-secondary education. Researchers analyzed data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health and found that those who took on new debt or consistently had debt had higher CVD risk scores.
A new article explores how plant-based diets can support immunity and decrease the risk of severe COVID-19 infection. Studies have shown that plant-based foods rich in nitrates and antioxidants can improve heart health and respiratory immunity.
A study from the Healthy Nevada Project found that only 10% of patients with electronic health records containing genetic diagnosis experienced a change in care, emphasizing the need for follow-up education and conversations. The study also highlights the importance of including genetic diagnoses into electronic health records to maxim...
The USPSTF recommends against initiating low-dose aspirin use for primary prevention of CVD in adults 60+, but suggests its use for those with a 10% or greater 10-year CVD risk. The net benefit is small, and those willing to take daily aspirin are more likely to benefit.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered that disulfiram inhibits FROUNT protein and chemokine signaling pathways, reducing anxiety levels in mice. The study suggests a potential breakthrough anti-anxiety medication with safe and effective treatment for elderly patients suffering from anxiety and insomnia.
A large US survey found that adults gained weight during the COVID-19 pandemic due to changes in behavior such as increased snacking and alcohol intake. The analysis of more than 3.5 million adults also showed a 3% increase in obesity prevalence, with significant changes in exercise participation, sleep duration, and cigarette smoking.
Researchers at Kobe University discover that immobilization induces loss of muscle mass by disrupting calcium levels and triggering the KLF15-IL-6 pathway. This finding may lead to the development of a treatment for muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, which affects aging societies.
A retrospective study found that cases of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease increased since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Late-night meals and higher alcohol intake were identified as independent predictors of developing MAFLD, especially among working-age individuals.
Researchers found that a community-based approach to reporting APOL1 genetic test results resulted in lower blood pressure readings among hypertensive patients. This trial suggests that involving communities in genetic testing could be beneficial for reducing the risks of chronic kidney disease.
Researchers found that higher levels of dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber, are associated with a lower risk of developing dementia. The study suggests that a high-fiber diet may play a preventative role in reducing the incidence of dementia.
A new poll of people aged 50 and older found that nearly 1 in 3 had a COVID-related delay for healthcare appointments in 2021. Many unvaccinated individuals still haven't rescheduled their appointments, posing concerns about preventive care, chronic condition management, and operations.
A plant-based diet has been shown to lower the risk of COVID-19 infection and severe illness, with some studies suggesting a 9% lower risk and 73% lower risk among healthcare workers. The 'blue zone' diet, prevalent in Okinawa, Japan, may also provide benefits.
Researchers found a distinct microbial profile associated with long COVID symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and insomnia. Patients with long COVID had a less diverse and abundant gut microbiome compared to those without the condition.
A study published in Science Advances found that cannabidiol (CBD) inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection in human cells and mice, suggesting its potential as a preventative or early treatment for COVID-19. CBD's effects were confined to high purity doses and specific situations.
A recent study published in Science Translational Medicine identified a novel causative gene, BAG5, for dilated cardiomyopathy, a leading cause of heart failure. The researchers found that mutations in this gene can lead to cardiomyopathy and found a potential treatment alternative using adeno-associated viruses (AAV) gene therapy.
Researchers at Boston Medical Center created a new resource to manage long-term heart disease risk after specific pregnancy complications. The review synthesizes recommendations for primary care clinicians to assess and manage risk, focusing on preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm delivery.
A study published in PNAS found that trust and knowledge about vaccination are stronger predictors of vaccination than Covid-specific factors. Background beliefs and behavior regarding vaccination in general were more than twice as predictive of the change in vaccination as beliefs about the pandemic itself.
A clinical trial of 18,353 adults found no benefit of omega-3 supplements in preventing depression. The study, led by Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, tested the effect of daily vitamin D and/or omega-3 supplements on depression risk over a median of 5.3 years.
Researchers found that high avocado consumption led to reduced caloric energy intake, lower dairy and meat consumption, and improved fiber and nutrient intake. However, unexpected decreases in calcium and certain minerals were also observed.
A KU study reveals that individuals' political ideologies play a crucial role in shaping their health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research, conducted using two surveys and a review of existing data, found that ideology was a significant predictor of health behavior, especially when compared to other factors such as age,...
Researchers found that geriatric cotton rats given ibuprofen cleared RSV more quickly than those without the drug. Ibuprofen improved immune response by lowering aging-related inflammation, suggesting a potential role for the drug in providing lasting immunity against RSV.
The USPSTF report examines the intersection of racism and health inequity in preventive services, highlighting existing definitional and conceptual issues. The study aims to improve patient care by addressing these disparities, which have significant implications for health outcomes.
The USPSTF has developed strategies to address systemic racism in its recommendations, aiming to promote health equity in preventive services. The new approaches focus on eliminating disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.
A new study found that healthcare providers hold less favorable judgments about patients who inject drugs, leading to potential lack of access to preventive HIV medication. The study highlights the importance of raising awareness and standardizing access to PrEP for all people, regardless of their risk factors.
Researchers at Boston University have developed a new online risk prediction model for breast cancer in Black women, suitable for use in primary care settings. The model is well-calibrated and discriminatory accurate, with the highest accuracy for women under age 40.
The USPSTF report describes methods used to identify recommendations with sex or gender components and propose an approach to making recommendations respectful of gender diversity. The task force aims to clarify the populations for which these recommendations should apply.
A new AI-based computer algorithm created by Mount Sinai researchers can identify subtle changes in electrocardiograms to predict heart failure. The algorithm was 94% accurate at predicting healthy ejection fractions and 87% accurate at detecting weakened hearts, offering a promising alternative to traditional diagnosis methods.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that increasing steps per day, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, or reducing sedentary time can improve cardiorespiratory fitness. Individuals with higher-than-average activity levels had better fitness regardless of sedentary time spent.
The National Kidney Foundation has released a research roadmap to accelerate innovations in treatment and increase understanding of kidney disease. The report calls for increased funding in preclinical science, genetics, health equity, and implementation science to tackle the most vexing challenges in kidney disease.
Researchers developed a novel machine learning algorithm to identify previously unknown air pollutant mixtures linked to poor asthma outcomes in children. The study found that early exposure to individual and mixed pollutants can lead to longer-term problems with asthma, affecting about seven percent of US children.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation called retroCHMP3 that can block the replication of certain viruses like HIV and Ebola by disrupting their ability to exit an infected cell. This finding has the potential to lead to the development of new medical interventions against these deadly diseases.
The VCU Massey Cancer Center has established a Translational Research Center in Lung Cancer Disparities (TRACER) to address racial disparities in lung cancer. TRACER will investigate the interaction between stress, smoking, and gene expression to raise lung cancer risk in Black men.
A first-of-its-kind global study links short-term exposure to wildfire-related fine particulate matter to increased all-cause, respiratory, and cardiovascular mortalities. The research found that over 33,500 deaths annually are directly attributable to wildfire pollution in cities worldwide.
A study found that over 50 US localities allow indoor cannabis smoking lounges, exposing customers and employees to secondhand cannabis smoke. Most laws do not require smoke-free environments or effective ventilation, putting public health at risk.
A new study found that non-Hispanic Black and Mexican American adults are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at an average age of 46-47 years old, four to seven years earlier than non-Hispanic white adults. Preventive measures such as nutrition counseling and physical-activity programs can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
A new TB prevention regimen for HIV-positive individuals has shown promising results, with 90.4% completing the three-month course compared to 50.5% of those on a six-month daily treatment. The study suggests that this shorter approach is as safe and effective as the standard treatment.
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has initiated a Phase II/III clinical trial for the Bharat Biotech Chikungunya vaccine candidate BBV87, evaluating its safety and immunogenicity in healthy adults across five countries. The study aims to develop an affordable vaccine with the aim of achieving WHO prequalification.
A randomized trial found that a shorter course of rifapentine-isoniazid therapy resulted in significantly higher treatment completion rates compared to a longer daily course. The findings suggest that this regimens can be more effective for preventing tuberculosis disease in individuals with HIV, particularly in high-transmission areas.
A new epidemiology study reveals crucial trends in HIV/AIDS progression in China from 1990 to 2017. The study highlights the need for effective strategies to reduce mortality rates, especially among men, by intensifying targeted efforts including early identification and diagnosis, high-quality treatment services, and patient retention.