Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
Developing a new technology for preventing catheter obstructions in patients with hydrocephaly has been successfully demonstrated in a European project. Concentrating ultrasound waves can detach materials from the inside of shunts implanted in the brains of patients, enabling preventive cleaning without affecting other areas.
The USPSTF concludes that screening for major depressive disorder (MDD) is insufficient for children under 12, while recommending it for adolescents. Screening for suicidal ideation and attempts is also recommended for all ages in question.
The toolkit provides step-by-step guidance on finding and publicizing firearm storage locations, as well as sample storage agreements. Eight states already have partial maps available online, with Colorado and Washington leading the way.
The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to make a recommendation about screening children under 7. Anxiety disorders are common in childhood and adolescence, associated with increased risk of future anxiety or depression. A 2018-2019 survey found 7.8% of children ages 3-17 had a current anxiety disorder
A Rutgers-led study of over 2,700 pairs of twins found that adolescent alcohol misuse is associated with poorer life satisfaction, physical symptoms, and self-rated health in midlife. The study's findings suggest that teenage drinking may have long-lasting indirect effects on physical health and well-being.
Rescue Biomedical's technology detects opioid overdoses and delivers naloxone to reverse them. The NIH grant will help the company complete milestones, including regulatory approval and scaling up manufacturing.
Researchers found significant regional differences in LTC spending, driven by factors such as population demographics and disability classification. Preventive measures may help reduce costs by reducing the need for long-term care.
Global liver cancer cases are estimated to rise by more than 55% by 2040 unless preventive measures are strengthened. Countries must achieve at least a 3% annual decrease in liver cancer incidence and mortality rates to avoid this increase, according to a new report.
A clinical trial conducted by Salk Institute and UC San Diego Health found that time-restricted eating improved measures of health and wellbeing in firefighters. The study showed that a 10-hour eating window reduced VLDL cholesterol, improved mental health, and decreased alcohol intake.
The October issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry focus on diagnosis and treatment of opioid use disorder and cannabis use disorder. Psychiatric Services features research reports on issues related to mental health services for people with serious mental illness.
A cross-sectional study of over 70,000 Asian Americans found significant variation in obesity prevalence among subgroups, with Filipino Americans having the highest rate at 28.7% and Chinese Americans the lowest at 13.2%. The study highlights the need for tailored strategies to address obesity disparities among Asian American populations.
Women with severe preeclampsia treated with extended-release nifedipine during labor and delivery had lower rates of dangerously high blood pressure, reducing the need for IV treatment. This study contributes to optimal management of hypertension during pregnancy and delivery.
A new study from the University of Bergen found that prophylactic anti-malarials can save money and reduce hospital readmissions for severely anaemic children in malaria-endemic areas. The research showed a 70% reduction in readmissions and deaths among these children.
A national US kidney disease registry found that 60% of participants were unaware of their kidney function level, hindering clinical trial recruitment. The National Kidney Foundation Patient Network aims to address this issue through real-world data collection and patient-centered research.
Anemia is common among adults with advanced kidney disease, associated with adverse outcomes and low eGFR levels. Effective iron supplementation is a low-risk intervention to address this issue, emphasizing the need for increased testing and treatment.
The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis in asymptomatic, nonpregnant individuals who have ever been sexually active. Syphilis cases increased from a record low in 2000 to 11.9 cases per 100,000 population in 2019.
Research from the University of Exeter found that farmers and auction operators believed putting health hubs in livestock marts helped break down barriers to seeking support. The study also revealed that stoicism, fear of being judged, and lack of availability were significant deterrents for farmers.
A $1 million NIH grant will help MU researchers analyze the effectiveness of a HIPAA-secure text messaging platform in nursing homes. The study aims to improve quality of care and prevent costly hospital transfers by speeding up decision-making.
A recent clinical trial published in Circulation found that Fitbit wearable devices can identify patients with undiagnosed atrial fibrillation, a condition that can lead to strokes. The study, led by Massachusetts General Hospital, used a novel algorithm to detect irregular heart rhythms based on Fitbit sensors.
A new study found that placing a monthly cap on out-of-pocket costs for commercially insured patients could lower their highest monthly healthcare bills by 50-60%. A $500 monthly limit would affect about 25% of enrollees and reduce in-network OOP costs over a year by 46%, while a $250 limit would show a 51% reduction.
A new study published in Cell Reports has identified the molecular pathways responsible for reduced seizures during fasting. The researchers found that amino acid sensing plays a critical role in the beneficial effects of fasting on seizures, suggesting targeted dietary strategies may be effective for patients without DEPDC5 mutations.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that patient education and nurse performance feedback can significantly reduce missed or refused doses of VTE-preventing drugs. The interventions resulted in a 36% drop in missed doses, with the patient education bundle showing a 44% reduction.
An Italian study found that ultra-processed foods, even if labeled as 'nutritious', pose a significant mortality risk. Combining nutritional composition and degree of food processing provides the most accurate assessment.
Research in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reveals a significant association between paid sick leave requirements and reduced mortality among US adult workers. The study found that state preemption laws hindering local mandates contribute to increased workforce mortality.
A clinical trial has shown that full-dose anticoagulation therapy is more effective than standard-dose prophylactic anticoagulation in preventing blood clotting complications in COVID-19 patients. The study found a significant reduction in venous or arterial clotting complications among patients who received full-dose treatment.
Researchers uncover mechanism behind aspergillosis in critically ill patients with severe influenza or Covid-19, doubling mortality rate. The study found that immune cells and white blood cells are compromised, leading to fungal growth in respiratory tract and lungs.
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.