Articles tagged with Medical Products
A study published in Addiction found that providing smokers with free, two-week nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) starter kits increased quit attempts and smoking abstinence. The intervention also showed promise for low-income patients, those with lower education levels, and rural residents.
A new study has found that babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are exposed to harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and parabens. These endocrine-disrupting compounds can lead to various health problems, including dysfunctions in children and adults.
The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute will lead the FDA Sentinel System, a national program monitoring drug safety using electronic health data. The institute's 10-year experience in developing and operating the system will be expanded with the addition of a new Sentinel Innovation Center.
A comprehensive review of connected diabetes care products found the potential for improved outcomes and reduced healthcare burdens. However, awareness and use of these programs remain low among healthcare professionals and patients.
Karen Giuliano, a UMass Amherst Nursing associate professor, has been selected as AACN's 2020 Distinguished Research Lecturer for her work in medical device design and innovation. She will discuss her career and research journey at the AACN National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition.
Burt's Bees presents clinical research demonstrating the protective abilities of botanical antioxidants, improving barrier function, and modulating sebum and the skin microbiome. The studies highlight the role of nature-based regimens in reducing oxidative damage, decreasing skin sensitivity, and promoting overall skin health.
Researchers found that robopets increase social interaction among residents, family members, and staff, promoting conversation and stimulating memories. The robotic animals also offer comfort and joy to those who interact with them.
Scientists have developed an adsorbent membrane that can remove pharmaceuticals and personal care products from water, a problem exacerbated by increasing use of these substances worldwide. The membrane, coated with porous aromatic frameworks, has shown high capacities for removing three model PPCPs and was recyclable.
Researchers at Rutgers University discovered that bacteria in wastewater plants transform commonly used pharmaceuticals and personal care products into new contaminants, which may harm aquatic environments. The study highlights the need for further evaluation of these emerging contaminants and their potential risks to human health.
Girls exposed to chemicals in toothpaste, makeup, and other personal care products before birth may experience puberty at progressively younger ages. The study found that daughters of mothers with higher levels of diethyl phthalate and triclosan experienced earlier puberty.
A new study by George Mason University researchers found links between chemicals used in personal care products and changes in reproductive hormones. The study, which analyzed 509 urine samples from 143 women aged 18-44, suggests that even low-level exposure to mixtures of chemicals may affect reproductive hormone levels.
Researchers at the University of Queensland found that triclosan can induce antibiotic resistance by accelerating the spread of multi-drug resistant bacteria. The study suggests that high residual levels of triclosan in everyday environments are contributing to the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
A new report by Silent Spring Institute finds that dozens of hazardous chemicals are present in hair products marketed at Black women, including hormone-disrupting chemicals and fragrance chemicals. The study highlights the need for better disclosure of ingredients and encourages manufacturers to develop safer products.
A study by Oregon State University found that over 60% of veterinary care professionals do not counsel clients on the environmental stewardship aspect of medicine disposal. Pet supplies and over-the-counter pet medications are a significant industry, with potentially harmful effects on the environment when disposed of improperly.
Researchers used high-speed pulse-chase imaging to study fungal growth, revealing precise timing of vesicle movement and motor protein involvement. The technique provided unprecedented precision, allowing for the discovery of different types of vesicles moving at varying velocities along the hypha.
A new Northwestern University study reveals that cosmetic complaints have more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, with hair care products being the biggest offender. The lack of regulatory scrutiny and poor reporting by consumers and manufacturers lead to significant under-reporting of adverse events, with only 200-400 reported annually
A study analyzed 5,144 reported adverse events from 2004 to 2016, with a significant increase in hair care product-related incidents between 2015-2016. The findings highlight the need for better cosmetic surveillance due to limited FDA reporting obligations and potential consumer attributions of serious health outcomes.
Research by Professor Anne Steinemann found that one-third of Australians suffer from health problems when exposed to common fragranced products. The study revealed 33% of Australians experience breathing difficulties, headaches, and other physical symptoms due to fragrance exposure.
A Zika virus reference strain has been sequenced to aid in diagnosis and screening of the disease. The strain will be used as a World Health Organization reference strain to identify Zika virus infection in the blood, making it easier to diagnose the disease.
A study by SUNY Downstate Health Science University found associations between pregnant women's exposure to butyl paraben, triclocarban, and propyl paraben and adverse birth outcomes. Findings suggest potential risks of these chemicals in consumer products.
A study of 100 Latina teenagers found a significant drop in levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals in the body after using personal care products labeled free of such chemicals. The study, led by researchers at UC Berkeley, highlights the importance of choosing products with fewer chemicals to reduce exposure.
A study found that vaginal douching is associated with higher levels of phthalate metabolites in urine, increasing the risk of health problems. Black women are at higher risk due to frequent douching usage.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that female health workers deployed to a remote rural area in northern Nigeria led to significant increases in healthcare service utilization. The program showed a 500% increase in health post visits, sustained over two years.
Researchers have found that premature infants are exposed to unsafe levels of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a chemical used in many plastic devices. The study suggests that this exposure may contribute to illness and long-term health problems.
A new study found an inverse relationship between phthalate exposure and testosterone levels in various populations, including boys ages 6-12 and men and women ages 40-60. Increased phthalate concentrations were associated with a decline in testosterone levels, potentially impacting reproductive development and sexual function.
Exposures to some phthalates have decreased since the 2008 federal ban, while others are rising due to industry replacement. The study found significant decreases in exposure to banned phthalates like BBzP and DEHP, but increases in alternative chemicals like DiNP.
The MauroNewMedia workstations address critical ergonomic issues, mitigating repetitive-motion injuries, improving airflow, and reducing noise. The award recognizes user-centered design principles that influenced every phase of development.
A study published in Optometry and Vision Science found that changing lens type or lens care product can bring relief to about half of patients experiencing discomfort with contact lenses. The study ranked different combinations, with one showing significant improvement in ocular comfort and symptoms.
Experts from the US FDA argue that few global initiatives focus on strengthening medical product regulatory systems in low-and middle-income countries. Strengthening these systems is crucial to assure product efficacy, safety, and quality, particularly as globalization increases access to medicines and vaccines.
Compounded drugs lack FDA approval and may result in serious adverse events, highlighting the need for cautious prescribing decisions. Physicians should prioritize FDA-approved products over non-standard alternatives.
A statewide analysis of Minnesota's freshwater bodies reveals widespread presence of personal care product antimicrobial ingredients triclosan and triclocarban. These chemicals persist for decades and contaminate human blood, urine, and breast milk.
The article reports on innovative products and technologies that promote healing of difficult wounds. Biological therapies, such as growth factor delivery and bioengineered cells, are also featured to stimulate the healing process.
The new journal Advances in Wound Care offers rapid dissemination of the latest scientific discoveries and translational research in acute and chronic wound care. It covers various topics including limb salvage, chronic ulcers, burns, trauma, and surgical repair.
A team at Georgia Tech developed an operations research model that helped CARE International pick three locations worldwide to supply relief quickly to victims of earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters. The model considered capacity constraints and recommended a gradual roll-out plan, enabling CARE to reduce response time, pr...
A reformed Medicaid program must prioritize coordinated primary care to ensure access and sustainability. The American College of Physicians recommends various improvements, including increased payment rates, reduced administrative burdens, and expanded long-term care options.
A recent Penn study found that heart patients support discussions about ICD deactivation at the end of life and post-mortem donation for product improvement or reuse. Most patients want their ICDs deactivated in an end-of-life illness, and many support donating their devices to improve global health disparities.
A computer-automated monitoring system identified a drug-releasing stent with significantly higher rates of major adverse cardiac events compared to similar stents. The study found that automated surveillance of clinical registries can efficiently identify emerging postmarket safety risks.
The use of bespoke drugs in primary care is associated with high costs, lack of transparency, and legal pitfalls. The review calls for a major overhaul to reduce unnecessary prescribing and improve patient safety.
The European Association of Urology has published an evidence-based guideline for incontinent urostomy, offering expert guidance for nurses. The comprehensive 80-page document covers topics such as cystectomy, pre- and post-operative care, and community follow-up, providing best practices for managing this complex condition.
A 10-year global flea monitoring program has confirmed imidacloprid's long-standing efficacy in killing fleas. The study, which analyzed over 1,000 flea samples from around the world, found no reduced susceptibility to imidacloprid.
The OxiNet III system enhances patient safety by continuously monitoring oxygen saturation levels remotely. This technology is integrated into over 450 US hospitals and supports safe care for critically ill patients.
In a first-of-its-kind study, Americans ranked access to care as their top priority when considering spending their own money on health products and services. Respondents also showed a preference for preventive healthcare services but were dissatisfied with their quality.
New head-to-head clinical studies reveal that Reach Ultraclean Toothbrush and Floss outperform leading products in plaque removal. The studies found that Reach Ultraclean Floss removes up to two times more plaque than Glide floss products, while the toothbrush provides improved gum health and removes 90% of hard-to-reach plaque.
Scientists have found nanoparticles in cosmetics and sunscreens can be toxic to microbes, reducing survival rates. A new biosensor has been developed to detect nanoparticles, warning of potential danger to aquatic life.
A Florida State University researcher is conducting a five-year study to change the approach companies take when purchasing mental health care benefits. The study aims to educate employers on how to choose effective mental health care products and promote long-term value over short-term cost savings.
The NPHF co-sponsoring the OTC Advisor program, a free online training tool providing evidence-based information on OTC medications and home diagnostics. The program covers various health issues, including pain management, fever, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Despite increased emphasis on patient safety, little progress has been made, with physicians' autonomy and lack of standardization identified as key culprits. An average hospitalized adult receives recommended therapy only 53% of the time, leading to nearly 100,000 annual deaths due to hospital error.
The Diabetes Initiative aims to improve diabetes care by increasing the membership of the Diabetes Advisory Board and creating a Web-based version of the Closing the Gap model. The initiative has already shown statistically significant improvements in clinical measures, such as shorter patient office visits and increased annual testing.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will solicit public input on establishing a HCPCS code for medicinal maggots. Medical maggots have been used in the US for over 80 years and can save thousands of dollars in medical costs, but CMS has not provided reimbursement codes.
The ACP and ACPF Diabetes Initiative has seen statistically significant improvements in clinical measures, including a nearly 50% reduction in office visits for diabetes patients. The team-based approach has also led to increased awareness of high-quality diabetes care among physicians.
A study by Allan Garland and colleagues found large differences in resource use among ICU doctors, but these variations did not affect patient outcomes. The researchers suggest that altering practice styles could reduce ICU costs without compromising care.
A recent study found that NICU infants are exposed to high levels of DEHP, a phthalate linked to reproductive issues and other health problems. The study showed a direct correlation between the use of DEHP-containing medical products and elevated MEHP levels in infants' urine.
The ACCP-CCI will address critical care issues internally by building on existing programs, developing new ones, and promoting collaborative interprofessional patient-focused care. The organization aims to improve quality and drive better outcomes for critically ill patients.
Researchers have detected high levels of triclocarban in Maryland streams, with concentrations up to 5.6 micrograms per liter. Further studies are needed to understand the impact on aquatic life and potential human exposure.
A University of Florida study found that an antibacterial agent in some asthma medications can cause airway constriction, potentially reducing the effectiveness of rescue medicine. The researchers call on parents and healthcare professionals to choose products without benzalkonium chloride.
A study by the CDC found that increasing smoking cessation therapy availability boosts assisted quit attempts and doubles success rates. The majority of smokers attempt to quit without treatment, resulting in low abstinence rates, but pharmacologic methods like nicotine patches and gum can significantly increase chances for success.
A follow-up study of ENBREL (etanercept) treatment for chronic heart failure found sustained improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and no increase in adverse events. The study involved 12 patients treated with ENBREL for nine months, showing continued tolerability of the drug.
A University of Florida study found that nearly half of senior women use herbal products to prevent or treat health problems. However, they rarely inform their healthcare providers, which can lead to dangerous drug interactions. The most commonly used herbal remedies were ginkgo biloba, garlic tablets, and glucosamine with chondroitin.
A Phase I study published in Circulation demonstrates that ENBREL improves quality of life scores and increases functional status in patients with advanced heart failure. The study found no significant adverse effects from ENBREL treatment, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit for chronic heart failure patients.
Patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis treated with Novantrone experienced a sustained reduction in their number of attacks and delay in disability progression compared to those treated with placebo. The treatment resulted in generally manageable side effects and a smaller number of relapses in the third year.