Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
A study of over 3,200 older adults found that even occasional exercise can significantly reduce the risk of death from heart disease and other causes. Physical activity was found to improve survival rates by 28-40%, depending on frequency and intensity.
A new study suggests that increasing funding for immunizations by just $1 per month could lead to improved practices in children's clinics. However, the cost of implementing recommended upgrades, such as auditing and feedback systems, may be prohibitively expensive for some clinics.
A three-year study of 4,122 women from diverse backgrounds found that age, confidence, and social connections play significant roles in exercise behavior. However, unexpected factors such as family size and religious attendance also influenced physical activity levels.
Research highlights the importance of exercise for older adults, dispelling stereotypes that age means poor health. Regular physical activity can benefit elderly individuals as much as younger people, enabling them to maintain independence and manage daily functions.
A large study of nearly 44,000 healthy men found no association between dietary fat intake and stroke risk. The research suggests that saturated fat intake may actually be beneficial in reducing atherosclerosis, contrary to previous findings.
A recent study found that individuals with higher education levels have better diet quality compared to those with lower education levels. The gap in diet between higher and lower educated groups may explain the disparity in health between socioeconomic groups in the US. Despite overall improvements in dietary habits, there are still s...
A recent study in Beijing found that men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk of HIV-1 infection, with 15 out of 481 participants testing positive. The study highlights the potential for MSM to serve as a bridge between high-risk and low-risk populations, increasing the transmission of HIV-1.
Health care providers must recognize unusual disease trends and early warning signs of intentional water contamination. With prompt diagnosis and proper management, they can make a difference in minimizing the impact of such an event.
The American College of Preventive Medicine recommends widespread screening for chlamydia in high-risk populations due to its high prevalence and asymptomatic cases. Effective screening can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, reducing the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease and other long-term complications.
Researchers found that workplace-based physical activity counseling programs significantly improved employees' physical activity levels and fitness. The program, called PACE, was tailored to individual readiness for change and showed greatest benefits for those with less-favorable health profiles.
The American College of Preventive Medicine rejects popular fad diets like Atkins, promoting instead a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruit. The College emphasizes that sustainable weight loss and improved health come from healthy eating habits combined with regular physical activity.
A study by Dr. Michael Gaziano and colleagues found a significant link between greater height and increased risk of prostate cancer in men aged 50 and above, with risks increasing by 32% for those over 72 inches tall. However, no association was found between weight or body mass index and prostate cancer risk.
A randomized study found that rapid-release nicotine gum significantly reduced cravings and provided meaningful relief compared to Nicorette. By 30 minutes of chewing, 92% of participants reported complete relief, outperforming Nicorette's 77%. The gum's unique mechanism delivers a controlled dose of nicotine for longer periods.
A study found that women experiencing domestic violence have significantly more doctor visits and higher annual healthcare costs compared to non-victims. Domestic violence victims averaged over 17 doctor visits per year, with 27% having more than 20 visits.
A recent study found that doctors rarely counsel smokers on quitting and advise only 23% of binge drinkers about their alcohol use. This can result in millions of smokers and binge drinkers not receiving health interventions.
A study by the Center for Advancing Health found that regular inspections can significantly reduce diarrhea outbreaks on cruise ships. The inspection pass-fail mark of 86 percent is linked to a lower incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms.
A pioneering study found that time urgency and impatience during young adulthood are associated with increased risk of developing hypertension years later. The strongest link was seen among white men, who were more than three times as likely to develop high blood pressure as those in lower TUI groups.
A 12-week aggressive exercise program showed high adherence rates among low-income, inner-city participants with disabilities. Participants experienced improved cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility despite chronic health conditions.
A study of 12 Fighting Back communities found no reduction in drug and alcohol use rates despite coordinated strategies, whereas implementing strategies aimed at adults increased rates.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine suggests that snuff use may be a gateway to cigarette smoking. Men who had quit using snuff were more likely to have switched to cigarettes than those who had never used snuff, indicating that snuff might impede smokers' efforts to quit.
A study of Gulf War veterans found no significant difference in health indicators between those exposed to low levels of chemical warfare agents and those not exposed. Veterans deployed to the region were more likely to experience psychological and physical ailments, but these effects were not unique to those with exposure.
A new study published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that exercising boosts the confidence of older adults. By promoting fitness-related variables like weight, energy and eating habits, public health interventions can help build confidence to continue exercising, leading to long-term behavioral change.
Participants with lower physical functioning experienced rapid progress toward higher functional levels after taking Tai Chi classes. Additionally, those with lower health perceptions and depression reported more significant improvements in physical function.
A recent study found that 31.7 percent of Americans had been sunburned within the previous 12 months, with white men being the most likely to experience sunburn at 44 percent. Higher education and income levels were also associated with higher rates of sunburn, highlighting a concerning trend among young adults.
A population-based study found nearly half of women screened for osteoporosis were undiagnosed, while half with the condition didn't receive treatment. Factors influencing therapy included lower bone mineral density and higher education.
The University of Michigan's new two-year Preventive Medicine Residency aims to address a critical shortage of medical epidemiologists. Residents will gain expertise in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and immunization plans, with initial participants already securing jobs in the field.
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.