The COVID-19 pandemic and drug overdose epidemic significantly contributed to the widening gender gap in US life expectancy. Chronic metabolic disease and mental illness are also thought to play a role in the growing disparity.
Experts call for urgent measures to address discrimination against patients fleeing war or conflict zones, those with serious mental illnesses, and frail elderly patients. Guidelines for treating advanced breast cancer should prioritize patient preferences and involve multidisciplinary care teams.
A new study has identified a brain connectivity variate that predicts psychiatric disorders in adolescents. The finding provides evidence for a transdiagnostic brain-based measure underlying individual differences in developing psychiatric disorders in early adolescence.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed noninvasive wearable sensors that can measure uric acid levels in human sweat, offering faster and more accurate diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis for conditions like anxiety and hypertension. The sensors, called EPICS, have higher sensitivity and better wearability than traditional sensors.
Researchers at DZNE and Charité developed a novel treatment for autoimmune encephalitis by reprogramming white blood cells to target misdirected antibodies. The new therapy, called CAAR-T cells, has shown accuracy in laboratory studies and is planned for clinical trials.
Researchers developed a new way to diagnose bipolar disorder using a simple blood test that can identify up to 30% of patients. The test, combined with digital mental health assessments, can differentiate between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder.
A review of trials comparing ACT and CBT for depression found mixed results, but suggested that traditional CBT may have a slight edge. The research highlights the need for more reliable trial results to inform treatment decisions.
The study, which analyzed data from older adults with peptic ulcer disease, revealed that approximately 1 in 8 individuals developed depression for the first time during the pandemic. Women, those who felt lonely, and those with functional limitations were at higher risk of depression. Targeted screening and intervention are being reco...
A meta-analysis of 40 studies involving 310,000 youths found low treatment rates for depression and anxiety in children and adolescents. Targeted interventions to improve psychiatric disorder treatment rates are urgently required.
A study of 340,000 pregnant women in southern California found a significant association between long-term exposure to antepartum and postpartum air pollution and increased risks of postpartum depression. The findings highlight the importance of identifying modifiable environmental risk factors to improve maternal mental health.
A new trial combining an Alzheimer's medication with two other drugs may amplify its effects and arrest disease progression. The trial, funded by a $150M grant, will recruit 900 participants with early-onset Alzheimer's.
A major European study found that almost all patients with skin diseases face embarrassment, leading to a huge psychological toll. The study also revealed that stigmatization is a major impact of skin diseases on personal and professional life.
SourceBeyond·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·DateOct 8, 2023
Researchers found that antidepressant escitalopram increases synaptic density in the brain over weeks, leading to greater brain plasticity. This explains why effects of antidepressants take time to kick-in, with significant differences in synapse density between treatment and placebo groups.
A Phase IIIb study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that esketamine nasal spray achieved higher remission rates (27.1%) compared to quetiapine extended-release (17.6%) in patients with treatment-resistant depression, indicating its potential as a targeted therapy for this population.
The ESCAPE-TRD study found that esketamine nasal spray outperforms quetiapine in treating treatment-resistant major depression, with patients showing higher remission rates and reduced depressive symptoms. The results suggest esketamine as a safe and effective treatment option for those with treatment-resistant depression.
A new study reveals that esketamine nasal spray is effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, with 27.1% of patients achieving remission after 8 weeks compared to 17.6% on quetiapine XR. Long-term data shows sustained remission rates at 21.7% for esketamine NS and 14.1% for quetiapine XR.
New research reveals that children with childhood mental health issues are at higher risk of social isolation, low educational attainment, financial difficulties, and heavy substance use in late teens and early 20s. The study also found a strong link between internalising symptoms and poor physical health in young adulthood.
A study reviewing current research on ADHD in older adults highlights the need for better approaches to screening and diagnosis. The authors conclude that existing guidelines focus on children and young adults, leading to a lack of consideration for the condition in people aged 50-55.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in emergency department visits and hospitalizations for self-harm and suicidal ideation among adolescents, particularly young female adolescents. The disruptions of the pandemic may have contributed to this trend.
This exploratory study reveals racial differences in clinical presentation among individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. The findings suggest that racially minoritized individuals may experience more severe dementia severity, functional impairment, and neuropsychiatric symptoms.
A study published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that inflammation-related genes play a significant role in depression. The researchers discovered correlations between immune-related genes, DNA methylation patterns, and brain structure abnormalities in patients with major depressive disorder.
Researchers at Pitt Public Health analyzed thousands of human genomes to find new gene variations influencing Alzheimer's disease risk. They identified 15 additional variations in the APOE gene and other genome areas that may influence disease risk, although more research is needed for definitive conclusions.
A new blood-based test called p-tau217 has shown great promise in identifying Alzheimer's disease by stratifying patients into low, intermediate, and high-risk groups. The two-step workflow reduces the need for confirmatory testing in uncertain cases.
A study of 1.3 million people found that those with hospital-treated depression have a high risk of developing conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. Genetic analysis also revealed a link between depression and reduced cognitive abilities, such as abstract thinking and mental flexibility.
A new study found that people who received free produce prescriptions experienced increased fruit and vegetable consumption, leading to improved body mass index, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels. This research suggests that produce prescription programs may be an effective way to address food insecurity and promote health.
A Rutgers-led study found that improving prison reentry programs for highest-risk users can help reduce opioid overdose deaths in the US. Strengthening healthcare services, such as psychiatric medication and syringe services, is crucial to engage individuals in opioid use treatment after release.
Neuroscientists found that adversities permanently alter brain structure and function, increasing the risk of psychiatric disorders. An aberrant reaction to adversities is related to anxiety symptoms, with potential predictive value for disorder development.
A new study found that high-stress caregivers had higher klotho levels and longer telomeres in specific immune cells, which may provide protection against aging. In contrast, low-stress caregivers showed no significant associations between klotho levels and telomere length.
A new study finds that severe behavioral symptoms in older adults are associated with a higher likelihood of divorce, while those with more advanced dementia are less likely to end their marriages. The research analyzed data from 263 married couples and found a positive correlation between neuropsychiatric symptoms and divorce risk.
A Hong Kong study of 1.5 million people found that young-onset type 2 diabetes is associated with higher rates of hospital stays for mental health disorders. The study suggests that addressing mental health needs may be crucial in reducing hospitalization rates for young adults with type 2 diabetes.
A study by UC Riverside-led researchers reveals that deportation causes social, economic, and political insecurities among noncitizen veterans. The study found that many veterans struggle to maintain access to necessities, experience chronic stress, and face poor health outcomes after deportation. The researchers emphasize the need for...
A global study led by researchers from the University of Queensland and Harvard Medical School found that one in two people will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime. The study analyzed data from over 150,000 adults across 29 countries and found that 50% of the population develops at least one disorder by age 75.
Researchers developed a blood test to detect nerve injury in MS and found it works for children, even when symptom-free. The test measures neurofilament light chain levels, which reflect nerve cell injury.
A nationwide Finnish study found that premature parental death is strongly linked to poor mental health and lower earnings in adulthood for both sexes. Boys are more vulnerable than girls, with nearly twice the odds of hospital admission for intentional self-harm after losing their mother prematurely.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateJul 25, 2023
A team of UCI researchers identified a distinct class of brain inhibitory neurons that may contribute to neuropsychiatric conditions. These neurons, characterized by parvalbumin and cholecystokinin expression, play a crucial role in regulating brain activity.
A national study of over 835,000 people found that bisexual individuals experience poorer health outcomes, particularly long-term physical and mental health problems. Bisexual women reported better health outcomes, while LGB groups across genders felt less confident in managing their own health.
The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle to prevent worsening health in people with chronic coronary disease. Clinicians should coordinate care between cardiovascular and primary care professionals, emphasizing team-based approach and social determinants of health.
A new analysis of Swedish birth records found that fathers' psychiatric diagnoses increase the risk of preterm birth, with risks higher for infants whose parents have both diagnoses. The study suggests that additional social support and prenatal care may help mitigate this risk.
Researchers at Korea University Medicine identified a new neuroimaging-based biomarker for MDD, the local gyrification index (LGI), which shows decreased cortical folding in patients. LGI values reflect long-drawn developmental processes and are stable markers compared to previous biomarkers.
A newly developed risk calculator based on 11 key factors can accurately predict suicide risk in those who have self-harmed within 6-12 months. The OxSATS scoring system may help inform treatment decisions and resource allocation, pending further validation.
Researchers found a disrupted balance between glutamate and GABA neurotransmitters in the brains of people with OCD, which may lead to new treatment strategies. The study also suggests that excess glutamate levels could serve as a biomarker for OCD.
A systematic review found that cancer survivors experience a higher risk of psychological symptoms compared to healthy siblings and controls. Psycho-oncological intervention is recommended for early detection and prevention.
Researchers developed outcome indicators to measure health issues in children with cancer, allowing for improvement in care and treatment. The indicators consider physical, psychosocial, and neurocognitive outcomes, providing a clear and comparable measurement of quality of survival.
The USPSTF recommends regular screening for depression in the adult population to address its significant impact on daily functioning. Major depressive disorder can lead to increased mortality if left untreated.
A survey study of 18,000 respondents across seven countries found that civil violence exposure was associated with an elevated risk of mental disorders for many years after initial exposure. The findings suggest that policymakers should consider these associations when projecting future mental disorder treatment needs.
Researchers at City of Hope have developed a universal donor stem cell therapy that can treat degenerative brain diseases such as Canavan disease and Alzheimer's. The therapy, which uses an 'off-the-shelf' approach, has shown promising results in preclinical studies, reducing toxic accumulation of metabolites and improving motor function.
The use of psychedelics in mental health treatment is gaining traction, but concerns about patient safety and regulation need to be addressed. Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise in treating conditions like depression and PTSD, but more research is needed on dosages, settings, and guidelines.
A Phase 2a clinical trial found that AEFO117 significantly reduced the effects of cannabis in daily smokers and decreased both positive mood effects and decision to use cannabis. The drug, developed by Aelis Farma, appears to counteract the high associated with THC without disrupting physiological and behavioral functions.
A new meta-analysis suggests a strong link between childhood maltreatment and adult alexithymia, with three types of child maltreatment - emotional neglect, physical neglect, and sexual abuse - being particularly predictive. This can lead to difficulties in identifying and describing emotions, harming social and intimate relationships.
A study published in Brain Behavior and Immunity found autoantibodies against a synaptic adhesion protein, neurexin 1α, in patients with schizophrenia. In mice, these autoantibodies caused schizophrenia-related changes, including reduced social behavior and cognitive function.
A study of 4,260 adults found that smoking cessation was associated with improved anxiety and depression outcomes. Sustained cessation for at least 15 weeks showed promise as a strategy for improving mental health in this population.
A recent study published in Translational Psychiatry found that obesity significantly increases the likelihood of developing mental disorders, including depression and anxiety, across all age groups. Women were found to be at a higher risk for most diseases compared to men.
A Danish nationwide cohort study found that COVID-19 patients, especially those over 70, had a significantly higher risk of developing new-onset mental disorders compared to the general population. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients showed increased mental disorder risk similar to non-COVID-19 hospitalizations.
Researchers have identified a brain marker that may indicate future suicide risk, suggesting potential new treatments and prevention strategies. The study found differences in brain connections among veterans with a history of suicide attempts compared to those without, which could help identify individuals at risk.
Experts urge clinicians to adopt a whole-of-person approach to medical care to address chronic disease and mental health issues related to child abuse and neglect. A trauma-informed biopsychosocial model of health can help reduce the negative impacts of exposure to serious child abuse and neglect.
The Southwest Rural Health Research Center's survey highlights mental health and addiction as rising concerns in rural areas, while access to quality healthcare remains a significant issue. Economic stability is also a key priority, reflecting the impact of poverty on healthcare access.
Hoarding disorder affects 2% of the population with clutter in homes and excessive acquisition of possessions. The new guidance provides best practice for diagnosing and supporting those affected.
A major international study found that women taking certain epilepsy medicines during pregnancy are at a higher risk of having children develop severe psychiatric disorders. The study, which analyzed data from 38,000 children, highlights the importance of carefully weighing the risks and benefits of medication use during pregnancy.
The study found that endocrine, musculoskeletal, and vascular diseases were the most common causes of hospitalization in individuals with depression. Depression is considered a potential target for preventing both physical and mental health issues.
The study found that the program increased access to mental health care for thousands of New Jersey residents, with practitioners serving patients in 13 languages and underserved racial or ethnic minority groups. Increasing access to mental health services is crucial during the pandemic, especially given a shortage of providers.