Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Blood disorders are a significant public health concern, affecting at least 1 million Americans, with limited understanding of their magnitude. A proposed public health framework aims to address the needs of people with rare blood disorders, including early screening, education, and access to care.
New studies found that clean indoor air laws are associated with increased voluntary smokefree policies in the home, particularly in households with smokers and children. The laws have a significant impact on protecting kids from secondhand smoke exposure, with children up to twice as likely to take up smoking themselves.
Efforts to dismantle clean air laws threaten public health, and experts urge physicians to educate Congress on the critical role of regulation in preventing air pollution's negative effects. The Clean Air Act authorizes the EPA to reduce airborne contaminants, and its amendments have been passed with bipartisan support.
The UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies will receive funding to tackle two primary goals of the National AIDS Strategy: increasing access to care and optimizing health outcomes. The program aims to close gaps in HIV testing, linkage to care, and treatment success among high-risk populations.
A Miriam Hospital study found that male and female smokers who completed a 12-week resistance training regimen were twice as likely to successfully quit compared to those without weight lifting. The study also showed long-lasting effects, with 15% of participants maintaining their quit attempt three months after the study.
A new study found that myocardial infarction survivors living in low socioeconomic status neighborhoods had lower levels of leisure-time physical activity compared to those from wealthier areas. The association was strongest in the first 5 years after MI and remained significant after adjusting for individual factors.
Researchers found that Latino smokers who have a significant other are more successful in quitting smoking, with approximately 46% of participants reporting success. The study also suggests that having a partner can buffer the negative effect of depression on smoking cessation.
A National Sleep Foundation poll found that 43% of Americans report rarely getting a good night's sleep on weeknights due to pervasive technology use before bedtime. The study highlights the impact of screens and interactive technologies on sleep habits, particularly in younger generations.
A randomized controlled trial found that a triple-drug regimen during pregnancy and breastfeeding significantly reduces HIV transmission to infants. The study's findings support the use of long-term treatment for women with low CD4 cell counts and ARV prophylaxis for all breastfeeding mothers.
A controlled trial suggests that a combination of band ligation and nadolol may not be the most effective prophylaxis for first variceal bleeding. Beta blockers are generally considered the treatment of choice for prophylaxis of first variceal bleeding.
A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that antithromboembolic prophylaxis is not necessary for cirrhotic patients undergoing liver resection, as the risk of venous thromboembolism is low. However, the presence of esophageal varices may contraindicate prophylaxis due to increased risk of postoperative hemorrhage.
Co-trimoxazole prophylaxis halves mortality in severely immunosuppressed HIV-infected adults, with benefits lasting at least 72 weeks. It also reduces malaria incidence, with no significant effect on opportunistic infections.
The Positive Prevention Toolkit aims to enable HIV/AIDS caregivers to provide prevention messages when interacting with HIV-positive patients. The toolkit consists of seven sections, including training skills, curricula, and practical resources.
A study found that intensive health behavior counseling is effective, but cost can be a significant barrier. When free services were offered, more patients participated, while charges led to a decrease in referrals. Policymakers are advised to eliminate cost as a barrier to support clinical-community partnerships.
Despite increased availability of prescription antiplatelet medications, the overall use of blood-thinning agents among stroke survivors has plateaued. Aspirin remains the predominant agent used for secondary stroke prevention, with no improvements in antithrombotic agent usage over a 7-year period.
The new European Society of Cardiology guidelines update the treatment approach for infective endocarditis, emphasizing a multidisciplinary care team and earlier surgery. The guidelines also reduce antibiotic prophylaxis for high-risk dental procedures and highlight the importance of echocardiography in diagnosis and management.
The American College of Preventive Medicine has launched a web page featuring an extensive literature review on lifestyle medicine, summarizing scientific evidence supporting lifestyle interventions. The review aims to inform physicians about the principles of lifestyle medicine and provide guidelines for effective behavior change inte...
A phase 3 trial found that anti-T cell globulin (ATG) reduces the incidence of both acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in transplant patients. This results in improved survival rates and reduced complications without compromising overall survival or increasing relapse rates.
Studies found that glove perforation increased surgical site infection rates by 10%, with no association when antibiotics were used. Implementing measures like double gloving and glove replacement can decrease perforation risk.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found a more-than-sevenfold increase in computer-related injuries from 1994 to 2006. The majority of injuries occurred at home and were caused by tripping or falling over equipment, hitting against or catching on computers, or computer equipment falling on patients.
A new study found that Frequent Mental Distress (FMD) prevalence varies significantly across the US, with high rates in Appalachian and Mississippi Valley regions and low rates in the upper Midwest. FMD prevalence increased by at least 1 percentage point in 27 states over two periods.
The USPSTF updated its guidelines to recommend aspirin use for primary prevention of heart attack and stroke in specific age and gender groups. The task force emphasizes the importance of discussing the benefits and risks of daily aspirin use with patients, particularly those between 45-79 years old.
A study found that a rate of at least 100 steps per minute achieves moderate intensity activity, supporting a simple pedometer-based recommendation of 3000 steps in 30 minutes. The research suggests using a single and simple pedometer-based guideline for effective health communication.
A study found that teenagers who preferred popular songs with degrading sexual references were more likely to engage in intercourse or pre-coital activities. High exposure to such lyrics was independently associated with higher levels of sexual behavior among young adolescents.
A combination of prophylactic antibiotics, barrier isolation, and air quality control measures significantly reduces mortality risk in immunocompromised cancer patients. The intervention shows a 40% reduction in all-cause mortality at 30 days post-treatment, with improved survival only seen when antibiotic and anti-fungal prophylaxis a...
Exposure to secondhand smoke has been reduced by 25-40% since 2000, resulting in a 25-30% decrease in its clinical burden. Treatment costs attributed to passive smoking have also decreased by approximately $1.8 billion to $6.0 billion annually.
A new study by researchers from The Miriam Hospital's Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine suggests that increased physical activity after bariatric surgery can lead to better postoperative outcomes, including greater weight loss and improved health-related quality of life. More than two-thirds of participants who became acti...
A community-based diabetes prevention program using the YMCA as a vehicle for education and lifestyle intervention has shown promising results. Participants achieved significant weight loss and improvements in cholesterol levels, suggesting the potential for widespread dissemination of evidence-based strategies.
Maternal death rates in the US remain constant, but a study suggests reducing cesarean-related deaths by implementing thromboprophylaxis can lower mortality. The risk of death attributable to cesarean delivery is approximately 2/100,000 procedures, which can be significantly reduced with universal thromboembolism prophylaxis.
A new study found that smoking is associated with a higher risk of stroke in spouses, particularly among never-smokers. Quitting smoking eliminates this risk, suggesting the health benefits of cessation extend beyond individual smokers to their partners.
Golf cart-related injuries have increased by over 130% between 1990 and 2006, with falls being the most common cause. The study highlights the need for stricter regulations and safety measures to prevent these types of injuries, particularly among children.
The ASGE has updated its infection control guidelines to emphasize the importance of rigorous endoscope reprocessing and adherence to general infection control principles. These guidelines aim to reduce the risk of patient-to-patient transmission of microorganisms during GI endoscopy procedures.
The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy has updated its guidelines on antibiotic prophylaxis for gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, citing a lack of data supporting the use of prophylactic antibiotics solely to prevent infective endocarditis. Clinically significant infections after endoscopic procedures are extremely rare.
Community mobilization is a key approach to prevent and reduce youth violence, according to experts. Studies from diverse communities show that collaborative partnerships, cultural appropriateness, and community ownership are essential factors in successful community mobilization.
Over half of hospital patients are at risk of venous thromboembolism and require prophylactic treatment, with surgical patients more likely to receive it. Global usage of VTE prophylaxis varies significantly across countries, highlighting the need for standardized guidelines.
A study suggests government dietary guidelines, introduced in the late 1970s, may have had a negative impact on health due to limited scientific data. The researchers argue that without proper studies, such guidelines may be harmful and recommend more cautious direction.
The American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM) advises that clinicians provide information on potential benefits and harms of prostate cancer screening to men, especially those with family history or African-American background. Patient-clinician discussion is crucial for informed decision-making about screening.
Researchers found a significant decline in commercial cigarette purchases among adolescents, while social sources increased. This decrease was linked to reduced smoking rates, suggesting that limiting access to cigarettes may be an effective strategy for curbing youth smoking.
Several phase II and III trials investigate anti-retroviral drug combinations for pre-exposure prophylaxis among at-risk populations. The implementation of such a program requires careful planning and substantial resources to ensure access, minimize risk behavior, and prevent drug-resistant strains.
A new study reports 68 incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning in hotel guests, resulting in 27 deaths and 66 pathological conditions. Effective CO prevention measures could reduce lifetime risk for frequent travelers.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health reveals a disturbingly high prevalence of self-reported drinking and driving among Spanish doctors and nurses. These health professionals are found to be more likely to engage in drink driving, with men being twice as likely to drive while intoxicated compared to women.
Despite concerns about obesity and diet-related maladies, US restaurant chains prioritize profit-driven decisions over healthier options. The study found that only a few executives expressed interest in offering low-fat foods and fresh produce on their menus.
Two recent studies published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that Americans are not meeting the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Despite recommendations since 1990, only 28% of adults meet the guidelines for fruit consumption, while less than 11% meet both fruit and vegetable guidelines.
Researchers highlight the challenges of promoting physical activity in a sedentary society, citing political and systemic barriers. The authors emphasize the need for a public health infrastructure to support physical activity promotion, given its substantial protection against obesity and chronic disease.
A study published in Archives of Surgery found that a single dose of antibiotics prior to surgery is as effective as a 24-hour dosing regimen in preventing surgical site infections. The new protocol resulted in significant cost savings, with a 63% decline in antibiotic costs and a monthly saving of $1,980.
Researchers suggest lamivudine as a PREP candidate due to its relative safety and ease of use. Randomized clinical trials are needed to evaluate its efficacy in preventing new HIV infections.
Researchers used a systematic review process to identify 10 key indicators of activity-friendly communities, including land use policies and clean environments. These findings represent an important first step in assessing and improving community support for routine physical activity.
A study found that many patients have difficulty interpreting and applying serving sizes on food labels, particularly those with poor literacy and numeracy skills. This can make it hard for patients to follow a good diet, highlighting the need for healthcare providers and the FDA to improve communication and label design.
The study found that children under age 5 are twice as likely to live in severe poverty, with severe poverty affecting African Americans and Hispanics disproportionately. The increasing trend has significant implications for healthcare services and long-term child outcomes.
A new study found significant racial disparities in seatbelt use among black and white motorists, with blacks less likely to wear seatbelts in states with secondary seatbelt laws. The study suggests that upgrading these laws to primary laws could eliminate the disparity and reduce motor vehicle crash-related injuries and deaths.
A recent study found that 4.5% of surveyed adults reported being stalked, with women, younger adults, and single individuals being the most vulnerable. The study also revealed significant racial disparities in stalking rates, with African-Americans having lower odds of being targeted.
A study of over 3,400 women reveals that intimate partner violence (IPV) is highly prevalent and chronic, lasting more than 5 years in some cases. IPV was found to have significant health effects on women, including depression, physical symptoms, and social isolation.
A study found that a case-based online continuing medical education (CME) program effective in improving physicians' domestic violence management skills. The program showed clear improvement in eight of the 10 measures of physician partner violence preparedness twelve months after completion.
A review of history and lessons from tobacco litigation inform the evaluation of potential litigation strategies against the food industry. The authors argue that public health lawsuits can encourage food companies to improve nutritional content and change marketing practices, ultimately addressing obesity issues.
A new study finds that a drug combination against AIDS-related infections also prevents malaria in children. The combination, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TS), was found to be highly effective in preventing malaria, reducing the incidence by 99.5%, and also reduced gastrointestinal illnesses.
Researchers at University of Rochester Medical Center will study the diet and activity levels of Eastman Kodak employees to develop evidence-based tools to promote healthy work environments. The goal is to reduce obesity and improve overall well-being among Kodak's workforce.
A study of 34,133 patients found that only 55.7% received antimicrobials within an hour before incision, while 9.6% started treatment more than four hours post-incision. The results highlight opportunities to improve the use of antimicrobial prophylaxis to prevent surgical site infections.
Falls are a leading cause of death from unintentional injury in the US, with 7% of households reporting a fall requiring medical attention. Homeowners can take steps to prevent falls by installing protective devices such as grab bars, handrails, and safety gates.
A study found that households with parents visiting children's homes are more likely to store firearms unlocked and have poor medication storage practices. Homes with older adults and child visitors tend to have more firearms and less safe storage, but the difference is not statistically significant.
A study by Northwestern University researchers found that average annual and cumulative Medicare charges are significantly higher for obese individuals, with severe obesity resulting in costs of up to $175,000. The study highlights the urgent need for preventive measures to address obesity and reduce healthcare costs among older adults.