Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that teen habitual smokers who believed they could quit anytime had a higher risk of progressing to established smoking. Teenagers who were highly receptive to tobacco advertising also had a higher risk, with 70% more likely to have progressed to established smoking.
A new study found that young adults do not change their health behaviors when a close family member suffers a heart attack or stroke. Despite this, researchers note that these events can signal increased personal risk for cardiovascular disease.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force emphasizes the importance of personalized advice from doctors to motivate patients to change unhealthy behaviors. Effective methods include engaging patients in self-management practices and shared decision-making, prioritizing patient autonomy and choice.
Researchers found that reducing medication costs by 40% can add up to 90 years of life for heart patients over 75. Lowering prices from average wholesale price (AWP) to 20% below AWP extends life by 63 years, compared to only 48 years at AWP.
A study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that students were significantly less likely to report considering suicide after the Columbine incident, but the incidence of attempts remained unchanged. The fear of unsafe schools varied depending on location, with urban teens showing a notable increase in safety concerns.
Research emphasizes the role of environmental factors in promoting physical activity, including accessibility, pleasant surroundings, and convenience. The study found that people are more likely to engage in outdoor activities when there are safe and accessible paths, bikeways, and health clubs nearby.
A review of eight randomized studies on biomarkers and health behavior change found that providing quantitative information about harm exposure and disease risk increased motivation for healthy behaviors. However, lasting change may require appropriate treatment.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that foreign-born women have a higher risk of dying from heart disease and stroke compared to U.S.-born women. The study suggests that lower rates of hormone replacement therapy use and higher rates of hypertension may be contributing factors.
A study found that nearly half of Latino men have never had a recommended digital rectal exam for prostate and colorectal cancer. Factors associated with the procedure included doctors discussing it, having health insurance, and English skills among Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans.
A questionnaire surveyed junior doctors in two London teaching hospitals and found that nearly all were aware of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) but many lacked knowledge on its use. The study highlights the need for improved education on PEP among medical professionals to prevent occupationally acquired HIV infections.
This study shows that moderate drinkers have better mental and physical health compared to lifelong abstainers and former drinkers. The findings suggest that people who give up drinking due to ill health tend to be less healthy than lifelong abstainers.
A study found that only 28% of adults received counseling on physical activity, despite 68% not exercising for the recommended 30 minutes a day. Health care providers were more likely to recommend exercise to certain groups, including women, older patients, and those with chronic illnesses.
A study at Boston Children's Hospital found that three-fourths of parents who smoke would be willing to discuss quitting with a counselor while their child is in the hospital. Most parents also expressed interest in enrolling in free phone-based cessation programs.
A Finnish study found that car collisions with moose and deer peak one hour after sunset, reaching crash rates 30-80 times higher than daylight hours. The risk is also present during dawn, with Finnish deer being descendants of white-tails imported from America in 1934.
A new study finds that a behavioral intervention program significantly reduces the incidence of risky sex behavior and transmission of HIV among HIV-positive men and women. The program, which included lessons on coping with HIV-related stress and promoting safer sex practices, led to increased condom use and reduced transmission rates.
A study of Southern law enforcement agents found that 44% store their loaded guns unlocked at home. Agents with children are more likely to use safer storage practices. The findings highlight the need for better firearm safety devices and emergency response measures for officers.
A new study found that positive screening questions forecasted future violence in nearly nine times more likely to be victims of domestic violence. Women at highest risk were those who screened positive and recently separated from their spouse.
A study found that extended-duration prophylaxis significantly reduced the incidence of symptomatic VTE in patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement. The reduction in risk is equivalent to about 20 symptomatic events per 1000 patients treated.
A study found that nearly one-third of primary care physicians do not discuss cancer screenings with their patients, citing lack of time and language barriers. The survey also revealed that many doctors would make decisions independently of patient preference, and some were less likely to discuss controversial tests like PSA measurements.
Researchers found that wasabi's isothiocyanates can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which cause dental caries. This effect comes from wasabi's ability to interfere with sucrose-dependent cell adherence. Wasabi has been implicated in various health benefits due to its antimicrobial properties.
A Yale University study found no correlation between household hazards and elderly falls, contradicting common wisdom. Instead, researchers recommend targeting proven methods like increasing muscle strength, improving gait and balance, and proper medication management.
A systematic strategy to improve primary care for domestic violence victims showed promise, with clinicians reporting increased effectiveness and reduced fears. The study found a 14% increase in inquiries about domestic violence and a 30% increase in diagnoses, paving the way for cost-effective system changes.
A large study found nearly 12% of high school students experienced severe dating violence, with female victims more likely to report poor mental health and suicide attempts. Male perpetrators also faced negative effects, including poor physical health and dissatisfaction with life.
A study of 3,500 STD clinic visitors found that counseling helped replace misconceptions with effective strategies for STD protection. Over 15 million new cases of STDs occur annually, and common misconceptions include douching, urinating after sex, and washing genitals after sex.
A recent study found that older women who engage in multiple preventive practices are more likely to have regular mammograms. The research suggests that health education efforts emphasizing the importance of lifelong health promotion can improve mammography use among this demographic.
A study found that over half of medication-related injuries in US nursing homes are preventable, with psychoactive drugs and anticoagulants being the most common culprits. The study recommends enhanced surveillance, educational efforts, and systems-based prevention strategies to improve medication safety.
Army soldiers surpassed the Healthy People 2000 goals for physical fitness, with 70% reporting aerobic activity and 97% doing muscle strengthening exercises at least once a week. They also adopted healthier behaviors in nutrition, safety, and alcohol use categories.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that nearly 90% of high-risk patients received antibiotic instructions, while only 60% of moderate-risk patients did. The study also revealed that 25% of low-risk patients incorrectly received antibiotics and 13% chose not to take them.
A study found that inner-city physicians provide fewer cancer screenings and preventive services compared to higher-income communities. The researchers identified four main barriers: lack of training, time constraints, office support, and insurance reimbursement issues.
A recent study reveals that primary care practices neglect to counsel diabetic patients on how to self-manage their illness, leading to a lack of comprehensive disease management. Despite this, patients who utilized community resources for support received more medical and counseling-related services from their physicians.
A study found that two methods to increase physical activity among sedentary adults were comparable in effectiveness but differed in cost-effectiveness. The lifestyle approach, which taught problem-solving and self-management skills, was more cost-effective, averaging $17/month over a two-year period.
A recent survey by the March of Dimes found that only 32% of women between 18-45 take a daily multivitamin containing folic acid, despite being aware of its benefits. This is concerning given the importance of folic acid in preventing serious birth defects of the brain and spine.
The UNC-CH survey found that only a third of schools use Life Skills Training, and a quarter use Project ALERT, two programs proven to be effective in preventing adolescent drug experimentation. Many coordinators lack full-time staff to devote to drug prevention, with only 25% having one or more employees doing so.
A survey of 81 school districts in 11 states found that few schools are using effective anti-drug programs, with the most common programs being unproven. Effective programs such as Reconnecting Youth and Life Skills Training are available but often lack funding and teacher training.
Researchers found that an anti-smoking media campaign in Massachusetts increased awareness of the dangers of light cigarettes and decreased beliefs that they pose a lower risk to public health. The study suggests targeted advertising can correct misinformation about smoking.
A recent study of Army recruits revealed that smokers were 1.5 times more likely than nonsmokers to suffer fractures, sprains, and other physical injuries during an eight-week basic training program. The researchers also found that risk of injury increased for both women and men who smoked.
A new study from the University of California, San Francisco found that certain types of managed care plans do not offer greater access to preventive medical services compared to non-managed care plans. Traditional group/staff managed care plans still provide more preventive services than non-managed care in most cases.
Researchers from Brown University School of Medicine and Miriam Hospital found that individuals with a history of depression can successfully quit smoking, with an average reduction in smoking rate by 80%. However, those who quit may be at a higher risk of later relapse if depressive symptoms persist.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a protein molecule involved in dioxin-induced cell killing, known as CD-95 ligand. The team aims to develop antibodies to neutralize this molecule, potentially leading to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dioxin's toxic effects.
A new report reveals that many heroin overdose deaths can be prevented with prompt medical attention and treatment. The study highlights the effectiveness of methadone maintenance programs in reducing overdose-related deaths. By increasing access to these programs, the US can combat its heroin epidemic.
A new study found that residential dust control measures are not effective in reducing blood lead levels in children. Despite parents' best efforts, lead contamination remains a significant concern, and experts call for stricter housing standards to protect children.
A study published in Injury Prevention reveals that pediatricians can curb violent behavior during well-child examinations by educating families about youth violence, counseling children directly, and advocating for gun safety. The study also highlights the importance of community resources and supports parents' discipline practices.
Despite long-standing guidelines recommending antibiotic prophylaxis for dental patients with cardiac valvular problems, a new study finds no association between dental procedures and the onset of endocarditis. The researchers suggest reconsidering current policies due to low incidence and potential risks associated with antibiotics.
Researchers have successfully tested an implantable device called Atrioverter to treat atrial fibrillation, a condition that can lead to stroke. The device restored normal rhythm in 96% of treated individuals, offering a new treatment option for those prone to irregular heartbeats.
The forum emphasized the importance of expanded Medicare coverage for prevention programs and wellness promotion to reduce healthcare costs. Experts called for incentives, such as reduced premiums, for individuals who undertake health lifestyle behaviors.
A new study found that low-risk atrial fibrillation patients who take aspirin have a lower risk of stroke compared to those on warfarin, with fewer bleeding complications. The study identified hundreds of thousands of Americans eligible for aspirin therapy and provides new insights into stroke prevention.
Despite evidence of warfarin's effectiveness, it remains underused to prevent strokes in those with atrial fibrillation. The study found that increased prescriptions from 13% to 40% between 1989 and 1993 did not lead to significant changes in usage from 1993 onwards.
A recent study published in Circulation found that consuming garlic supplements can lower the stiffness of the aorta by up to 15% in healthy individuals. The study suggests that eating garlic may be beneficial for cardiovascular health, particularly as people age.
A recent study by Yale University School of Medicine researchers found that nearly 30% of people over 72 years old regained their ability to perform essential activities of daily living. The strongest predictor of recovery was age, with participants aged 85 or younger being more likely to regain independent ADL function.
A large community sample study found that women with depressive symptoms are three times more likely to develop alcohol problems after three years and 2.5 times more likely after four years compared to those without depressive symptoms. In contrast, no relationship was found between alcohol problems and subsequent depressive symptoms i...
Researchers found that teenagers who ate dinner with their families regularly were less likely to experience adjustment problems. These teens also reported better peer relationships and academic motivation. The study suggests that family mealtimes can help teens deal with the pressures of adolescence.
A recent study by Stanford University researchers found that a typical college eating disorder prevention program was ineffective in preventing disordered behavior, and may even have triggered it. The program, which aimed to address both primary and secondary prevention, failed to motivate high-risk students to seek help and may have o...
A year-long study led by Oregon Health Sciences University found that a drug prevention program called ATLAS reduced anabolic steroid use among high school football players. The program included educational sessions on risks and benefits of steroids, proper sports nutrition, and resistance to peer pressure.
The University of Maryland Medical Center now offers a new therapy to prevent stroke disability using the FDA-approved drug Activase. This clot-busting treatment is administered intravenously and can significantly reduce disability risk for patients who receive it within three hours after symptom onset.