Articles tagged with Preventive Medicine
A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that lower concentrations of vitamin B12 in healthy, older adults led to signs of neurological and cognitive deficiency. These individuals showed slower processing speeds, brain lesions, and delayed responses to visual stimuli compared to those with higher B12 levels.
The study found disparities in tobacco use across cumulative disabilities, with those having 3 or more disabilities experiencing worsening use trends. Targeted prevention and cessation efforts are needed to address these disparities.
A new scoring system, called the TRIPLE Score, measures specific proteins on blood platelets and a patient's age to identify those most likely to benefit from preventive medications. The breakthrough test could lead to thousands of patients being protected while saving millions in emergency care costs.
Researchers discovered a link between neuroactive steroids in pregnant women's blood and the risk of developing postpartum depression. Measuring these molecules via a blood test could enable doctors to provide treatment sooner. The study may lead to a preventive treatment using existing prescription drugs.
A large study found that telemedicine and training apps had minimal positive effects on patients with type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. The study suggests that direct care from medical professionals remains crucial for improving health outcomes in this population.
Approximately 1 in 9 US residents used dietary supplements to boost their immunity before the pandemic. Label claims related to immune benefits were common on these supplements, especially among older adults and those in poorer health.
A study by the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center found that a majority of adults believe home firearm access protects against home invasions, but many also underestimate its impact on suicide risk. The researchers suggest that misinformation from the firearms industry and media may contribute to these skewed perceptions.
A study of US poison center calls reveals a significant rise in caffeine energy product exposures among children and adolescents, with powdered caffeine exposures skyrocketing by 633%. Most exposures were unintentional and occurred in children under 6 years old.
A first-of-its-kind study found that restrictive school policies didn't lead to lower phone and social media use among students, nor better outcomes in mental health and wellbeing. The study suggests that reducing time spent on phones is crucial, but schools must consider phone use beyond their boundaries.
The DISTAL trial found that endovascular therapy in addition to best medical therapy did not reduce disability more than clot-busting treatment alone for patients with medium distal vessel blockages. The study showed that mechanical clot removal was a safe option, but its benefits were uncertain.
Researchers at the CNIC have designed a treatment strategy to protect the heart against cardiotoxic effects of anthracyclines, a common class of anticancer drugs. Empagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, has been shown to preserve cardiac function and metabolism in experimental models.
Researchers at Nagoya University found that luteolin, an antioxidant in vegetables, can suppress hair graying by preserving endothelins and supporting healthy melanocyte activity. The study suggests luteolin's unique medicinal effect may be a promising candidate for addressing age-related hair graying.
A cohort study of Canadian children found that high ultraprocessed food consumption during early childhood is associated with obesity development, particularly in males. The study suggests that targeted public health initiatives can help reduce ultraprocessed food intake and prevent obesity.
Researchers developed a breakthrough technology using Mirvie's RNA platform to identify unique molecular signals in unborn babies. This innovation enables prediction of severe fetal growth restriction, a leading cause of stillbirth.
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences is part of a new NIH program integrating clinical research into primary care practices in medically underserved areas. The program aims to increase access to vital health care and speed up the adoption of new evidence-based guidelines.
Despite decreased aspirin use among adults with low and higher ASCVD risk, many patients with limited benefit to treatment continue taking aspirin. The study highlights the need for better understanding of individual risk factors to improve treatment decisions.
Researchers found that short-course antibiotics can be as effective as traditional longer treatments in preventing death and recurrence of pneumonia. This approach offers significant value for healthcare systems by reducing hospital expenditure while maintaining excellent patient outcomes.
A new Cochrane review found that calorie labelling in supermarkets, restaurants, and other food outlets leads to a small reduction in the calories people select and purchase. The average reduction was 1.8%, equating to around two almonds per 600-calorie meal.
A Weill Cornell Medicine study found that 97% of those who received naloxone kits were at high risk of overdose, with significant racial disparities seen among older Black men and Latino/Latina groups. The city's overdose prevention efforts aim to address these disparities through targeted programs.
A cluster randomized trial involving 31 Canadian high schools and 3,800 students found that delivering personality-targeted brief cognitive behavioral interventions to students in the 7th grade reduced risk for substance use disorders by the end of high school. The intervention was associated with a 23%-80% reduced odds of SUD compared...
A new study finds that improving adolescent mental health can lead to increased labor force participation and lower public assistance usage, resulting in significant economic benefits. Clinically significant psychological distress in adolescence is associated with lower annual wages and reduced labor force participation 10 years later.
The USPSTF concludes that screening for osteoporosis can help prevent fractures in older women. However, the effectiveness of screening for men is unclear due to insufficient evidence.
The University of Arizona Health Sciences has been awarded a $3.9 million grant to address the shortage of primary care physicians in underserved communities in Arizona. The program aims to create more primary care and rural health admissions tracks and expand clinical experiences, ultimately increasing primary care residency matches.
Researchers found that participants who received early therapeutic interventions were significantly less likely to develop clinical depression within the first year. The interventions, which typically lasted six to twelve sessions, reduced symptoms and lowered the risk of depression by 42% in the first six months.
A study published in Chinese Medical Journal explores the use of artificial intelligence to identify potential medications for treating glaucoma. Researchers used AI models to predict the effectiveness of small-molecule compounds targeting RIPK3, a key signaling molecule involved in programmed cell death.
A new study reveals that targeted preventative measures can significantly reduce the economic burden of tooth decay, particularly in deprived groups. The research estimates that implementing upstream and downstream interventions could save £14,000 per person in the most deprived group.
A study led by Henry J. Pownall and Khurram Nasir found a strong link between the amount of free cholesterol in HDL and its accumulation in macrophages, which can contribute to heart disease. The researchers aim to develop new diagnostics and treatments for managing heart disease using HDL-free cholesterol as a biomarker.
A cohort of 1,500 children found cardiovascular health scores began to decline at approximately age 10, associated with health behaviors. This study identifies modifiable health behaviors for prevention efforts to optimize CVH in early life and may contribute to disparities in adulthood.
Cases of whooping cough are increasing in the US, with over 28,000 cases reported this year. A nationally representative survey found that many people lack knowledge about the disease's symptoms and vaccine effectiveness.
A new study by Murdoch Children's Research Institute found that 64% of adolescents reported symptoms three or more times across their adolescent years. Girls were at increased risk and more likely to have a chronic course. Preventive strategies are urgently needed to address this public health problem.
A UK study published in Diabetic Medicine found that over half of pregnant women with gestational diabetes were undiagnosed due to slow NHS blood test processing. Faster blood processing identified additional cases, leading to improved health outcomes for mothers and babies.
Researchers at UniSA found that certain sedentary behaviors, like reading, are beneficial for cognitive function, while others, such as watching TV, have a negative effect. The study suggests a nuanced approach to thinking about the link between sedentary behaviors and cognitive function.
Research from 2008-2020 shows an increase in emotional/mental health and suicide prevention in schools, but a decrease in substance use prevention, particularly among middle schools. This shift highlights the need for targeted teacher training and resource allocation to address emerging trends in school mental health.
A CU Anschutz study found that using a decision aid led to less personal uncertainty and distress among older adults, but not reduced depression. The online tool helped participants feel more confident in their decisions.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that Mexican American women are more likely to miss prescribed doses of stroke prevention medications. The study highlights sex-associated disparities in stroke care, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds significant associations between suicidal behavior and externalizing behaviors, as well as violence exposure among US high school students. The study's authors suggest that stronger firearm protections are needed to protect youth health.
A systematic review of 18 randomized controlled trials found that drinking enough water can help with weight loss and prevent kidney stones. Drinking eight cups a day significantly decreased the likelihood of getting another kidney stone, while six cups a day helped adults lose weight.
Despite survey findings, US adults trust store-bought turkey to be contaminant-free, but more than half test positive for fecal bacteria. Experts recommend avoiding potentially contaminated turkey and opting for plant-based alternatives.
The Greenlight Plus trial found that technological interventions and policies can help prevent childhood obesity at an early age. The study suggests that targeted prevention efforts can reduce the risk of obesity in children, setting a promising foundation for future prevention strategies.
A population-based matched cohort study found that preterm birth is associated with higher mortality risks until the third and fourth decades of life. These findings suggest that preterm birth should be recognized as a risk factor for mortality, informing preventive strategies.
The American Heart Association's 'What Would They Say?' video won the Silver Award in the Education, Art & Culture Campaign - Non-Profit Community Engagement category at the 4th Annual Anthem Awards. The video urges federal action against menthol tobacco products and has resonated deeply with communities targeted by the tobacco industry.
A new professorship in suicide studies and prevention has been established at Goethe University Frankfurt, led by Dr. Ute Lewitzka. The goal is to develop effective preventive measures through systematic tracking and analysis of suicide attempts and suicides.
Researchers found that non-invasive stereotactic radiosurgery significantly improves tumor control and reduces symptoms such as tinnitus, cranial nerve deterioration, and vestibular dysfunction. Early treatment can prevent tumors from growing over time and spare patients from irreversible problems.
The updated guidance reaffirms the importance of CPR with breaths for resuscitating individuals who have drowned. It also highlights the need for prevention, recognition, and safe rescue to improve chances of survival. The recommendations are based on evidence-based practices to restore breathing and blood circulation.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that brief cognitive behavioral therapy via video telehealth reduces suicide attempts and suicidal ideation, providing critical insight into treatment options for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. The study also shows that this therapy is effective in reducing depressive symptoms.
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that unclear procedures and distribution of responsibilities among healthcare workers can lead to poor oral health in older adults in nursing homes. The researchers suggest that a more structured process can promote communication and awareness of good oral health practices.
A global study of nearly 30,000 participants found that frailty accelerates dementia diagnosis by up to 9 years, with every additional health problem increasing the risk by 40%. Researchers emphasize the importance of targeted interventions and frailty screening for early disease prevention.
This study reveals prevalent adverse childhood experiences among children, including abuse and neglect, with notable disparities across demographics. Early identification and community interventions can reduce ACEs and mitigate future health consequences.
Researchers found that individuals with chronic kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, or both are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, with the risk predicted to occur up to 28 years earlier than in those without these conditions. The study aimed to better understand the effects of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome on CVD risk.
The Cooper Institute's research has proven physical inactivity as a public health problem and set public health recommendations for physical activity. The institute will enhance TTUHSC's efforts to expand impactful research and advance public health through collaboration with the university.
Researchers analyzed data from 26 countries, revealing that Mondays have the highest suicide risk, while New Year's Day increases risk across all nations. Men are also more vulnerable to day-of-the-week and holiday-related variations in suicide risk.
The November issues of APA journals focus on research related to substance use disorders, including a special issue on the topic. The American Psychiatric Association has published several studies and guidelines on these topics, providing valuable insights for mental health professionals.
A new study found that simple kitchen improvements can significantly reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, preventing over 67,000 premature deaths annually. Widespread implementation of ventilation systems could be an affordable solution to mitigate household air pollution in rural areas.
A digital health behavior intervention improved child weight-for-length trajectory and reduced childhood obesity at 24 months. The intervention was effective in a racially and ethnically diverse population, including groups at elevated risk for childhood obesity.
Researchers at Houston Methodist have identified a new strain of bacteria, Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), linked to increasingly severe human infections. The study used integrative analysis to investigate the genome, transcriptome, and virulence of SDSE strains, shedding light on their molecular pathogenesis.
A cohort study examines how traumatic and adverse childhood experiences influence developmental changes in psychiatric risk and cognitive ability. The findings suggest targeted early prevention and intervention strategies for at-risk youth.
A large cohort study found that mothers with eating disorders were more likely to have children with psychiatric disorders, while those with pre-pregnancy BMI outside the normal range also showed an increased risk. The findings suggest that clinicians should consider these factors when preventing offspring mental illness.
The risk of medical leave in Spain on days of extreme heat decreased from 19% to 13% between 1989 and 2019, according to a study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health. Workers in agriculture and hospitality sectors remain most vulnerable to heat-related injuries.
Generic tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) is the most commonly prescribed medication for PrEP in the US, with injectable PrEP use remaining low due to high costs. PrEP prescriptions increased between 2013 and 2023, according to a recent study.
Researchers will showcase results of a randomized clinical trial demonstrating Biovanta's efficacy in reducing common cold symptoms by strengthening the respiratory barrier and controlling inflammation. The presentation will also include preclinical data on antiviral formulas targeting rhinovirus and influenza.