Articles tagged with Disease Control
A new study by North Carolina State University researchers links the number of diseases in a region to its climate and biodiversity, with hot, wet climates having more pathogens. The prevalence of diseases, however, is influenced by health-care spending, particularly in regions with low spending.
A recent study published in the Academy of General Dentistry's peer-reviewed journal found that drinking fluoridated tap water can significantly reduce cavities and promote remineralization. The controlled addition of fluoride to public water supplies is considered a cost-effective way to prevent tooth decay.
Scientists identified 20 sand fly species in Panama, including two carrying Leishmania naiffi, a parasite causing cutaneous leishmaniasis. The presence of Wolbachia bacteria in these flies may offer a strategy for disease control and prevention measures such as insect repellent and protective clothing.
Significant increases in death rates from falls, motorcycle crashes, machinery use, and unintentional poisoning have been observed among older Americans. The overall change in injury mortality for individuals aged 65 years and older increased by three percent, with the greatest increase seen in whites.
The Lancet Editorial highlights improved NHS trust standards in England, with registration and inspections required. Continuous monitoring and enforceable penalties ensure trusts meet benchmarks.
A study found that up to 42% of people with undiagnosed diabetes and nearly 18% of those with prediabetes have chronic kidney disease. This suggests a significant number of individuals may be at risk for worsening kidney disease, emphasizing the need for earlier screening and timely medical care.
A study found that Clostridium difficile infections (CDI) surpassed methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) rates in southeast community hospitals. CDI was also comparable to other healthcare-associated infections, such as bloodstream and device-related infections.
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America and Infectious Diseases Society of America have released new clinical practice guidelines for Clostridium difficile infection in adults. The guidelines update recommendations on diagnosis, treatment, and infection control measures to address changes in epidemiology and disease severity.
Scientists found that emphasizing non-pathogen specific infection control practices, such as hand hygiene and chlorhexidine bathing, significantly reduced MRSA rates. The study observed a 91% reduction in central line-associated bloodstream infections, a 62% reduction in catheter-associated urinary tract infections, and a 92% reduction...
The National Guard Health Affairs in Saudi Arabia has been recognized for its efforts to reduce healthcare-associated infections, including an 82% reduction in central line associated BSI rates and an 80% reduction in surgical site infection rates. The organization's multidisciplinary team approach has been key to its success.
Researchers successfully created genetically engineered mosquitoes that can deliver a malaria vaccine through blood feeding, raising hopes for a new strategy in disease control. The study, led by Associate Professor Shigeto Yoshida, targeted the saliva gland of Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes and induced protective immune responses.
A French national program to reduce healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) reported important successes with mandatory public reporting. The program led to a drop of 40% in MRSA cases and improved infection control measures across the country. Key initiatives included advancing research, improving communication with patients, and stan...
A new study reveals that regulating intestinal inflammation can prevent colon cancer by controlling the activity of two proteins, Caspase-1 and Caspase-12. Caspase-1 plays a crucial role in maintaining the intestinal barrier, while its absence leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation and increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Researchers found that climate change is one factor contributing to the rise of malaria in highland areas, particularly in East Africa, Indonesia, and Afghanistan. However, they also identified other key factors, such as migration and land-use changes, that are likely driving the spread of the disease.
The American Society for Microbiology honors Samuel L. Katz with the Maurice Hilleman/Merck Award for his decades-long work on vaccine development. Katz, a renowned expert in vaccine research, has made significant contributions to pathogenesis, vaccine discovery, and disease prevention.
Researchers at Cornell University have identified a protein involved in mosquito urination, which can help control the spread of diseases like dengue fever. By blocking this protein's function, mosquitoes may be limited in their ability to survive after feeding on blood.
A recent study found that insufficient vitamin C levels can be fatal to mice during pregnancy. The Slc23a1 protein plays a vital role in vitamin C absorption and tissue accumulation. Researchers identified key functions for this transporter, including renal reabsorption and perinatal survival.
Researchers found that ghrelin reduced liver fibrosis by 25% in treated rats, prevented acute liver damage, and decreased oxidative stress and inflammation. Human studies also showed lower ghrelin serum levels in patients with chronic liver disease, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits.
Dendritic cells produce higher levels of α-defensins 1-3, associated with slower HIV disease progression and potential therapeutic implications. The findings open a new line of investigation for treating HIV/AIDS.
A recent Institute of Medicine report reveals 3.5-5.3 million people in the US have chronic HBV or HCV infections. Efforts to control these diseases are hindered by lack of knowledge among healthcare providers and the public, resulting in 15,000 deaths from liver cancer or related diseases annually.
A review of airline passengers and crew exposed to TB found no evidence of transmission during air travel. Only 10 out of 4328 passengers tested positive, with no reported cases of active TB resulting from air travel.
A software program created by Andrew Cohen analyzes time-lapse images to identify changes in cell behaviors, predicting the types of specialized cells a stem cell will produce. The software is 87% accurate in determining specific 'offspring' a stem cell will ultimately produce, and 99% accurate in predicting when self-renewal will end ...
A large multiple sclerosis study found that 62.5% of participants exhibited venous insufficiency, a condition linked to blood flow restrictions in the brain. The study suggests a potential association between CCSVI and MS disease progression.
Researchers at Henry Ford Hospital found that online programs providing practical tips on fruits and vegetables increased participants' daily intake by more than two servings. Many participants continued using the program and reported involving their family members.
The study shows that a simple, standardized checklist can virtually eliminate central-line catheter bloodstream infections. By combining the checklist with culture change and continuous monitoring, hospitals can sustainably reduce infection rates, making them more transparent to patients.
Researchers propose integrating NTD interventions into the regular health system, leveraging resources from malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis programs. Careful planning and community engagement are crucial for successful integration and co-implementation of these efforts.
Lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) cause significant morbidity and mortality globally. NTDs have been hindered by limited funding and coordination, but successful control initiatives like onchocerciasis elimination demonstrate the potential for progress.
Researchers found that nasal allergies may be involved in some cases of chronic sinus disease, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions. The study suggests using imaging tests to diagnose and treat patients with nasal allergies who also have chronic sinus disease.
A new study finds that alcoholics can improve their postural sway with prolonged sobriety, but the improvement may not fully erase the problem of instability. Researchers found that stabilizing factors such as turning on a light or walking with feet apart can help improve standing stability in sober alcoholics.
The Hebrew University has received a $5 million grant to study visceral leishmaniasis in Ethiopia, also known as Kala-azar. This collaborative project aims to identify weak links in the transmission cycle and devise methods for disease control, particularly in HIV/AIDS-endemic areas.
A large-scale genetic study has identified seven genes that increase an individual's susceptibility to leprosy, a chronic infectious disease affecting skin and peripheral nerves. The discovery highlights the role of innate immune response in leprosy development and may lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
A comprehensive infection control program at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance successfully suppressed H1N1 cases among immunocompromised cancer patients, despite a high-risk environment. The program's rigorous screening measures, isolation protocols, and staff vaccination policies significantly minimized transmission and acquisition.
Researchers found that strict glucose control reduces cardiovascular issues for diabetics with fewer health problems, but not those with long-term serious coexisting conditions. Firm glucose control may benefit patients with multiple health issues.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has approved 13 contracts to develop and implement science-based approaches to improve asthma control. The projects will focus on implementing evidence-based national guidelines for diagnosing and managing asthma in diverse communities, including rural, urban, and suburban settings.
NTDs like anemia, schistosomiasis, and human hookworm infection impair reproductive health and increase the transmission of STIs. Controlling these diseases can improve maternal health outcomes, reduce infant mortality, and promote gender equality.
Climate change poses a fundamental threat to global health, particularly for vulnerable populations. Strengthening health systems and investing in cheap and proven public health interventions can accelerate progress towards the MDGs and help mitigate climate change.
A recent review highlights the need for improved asthma control in preschoolers, with key findings including the use of inhaled corticosteroids as a regular therapy for children with severe symptoms. The authors emphasize the importance of considering alternative conditions if children do not respond to optimal therapy.
A new type of T-helper cell, called Th22 cells, has been discovered by researchers from Imperial College London. These cells play a special role in overseeing and coordinating immune cells that cause inflammation in chronic and allergic inflammatory diseases.
A recent study published in BMC Public Health suggests that immediate and aggressive spending of $60 billion on HIV/AIDS treatment could end the epidemic globally. The research, which analyzed a leading-edge mathematical model, predicts that an accelerated approach over five years is necessary to control the spread of the disease.
A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that people with less education are more likely to get H1N1 and the flu vaccine may be less effective in them. The study suggests that lower socioeconomic status can make it harder for adults of all ages to fight off new infections.
The Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Pneumonia outlines a six-year plan to control the disease, with a focus on promoting exclusive breastfeeding, vaccinations, and effective case management. Implementing these interventions could save more than one million lives each year.
Malaria eradication remains an elusive goal despite progress in controlling the disease, requiring multiple activities, interventions, and approaches. Scientists must adapt their strategies to address changing parasite behavior and distribution, developing new tools and interventions to keep ahead of emerging challenges.
Researchers at UC Davis have identified nonanal as the dominant odor naturally produced in humans and birds that attracts Culex mosquitoes, a key step towards controlling mosquito-borne diseases. The study also found that combining nonanal with carbon dioxide increases trap captures by over 50%.
A new integrated survey protocol identified areas requiring mass treatment for schistosomiasis and intestinal worm infections in Southern Sudan. Lymphatic filariasis and loiasis were found to be extremely rare, with only four individuals testing positive or reporting symptoms.
Deborah Friberg, COO and Executive Vice President at WakeMed Health and Hospitals, has been recognized by APIC with the first annual Healthcare Administrator Award. She supports infection prevention and control through various initiatives, including MRSA reduction and hand hygiene compliance.
The study emphasizes the role of population mobility in spreading drug-resistant diseases worldwide. Researchers propose a new approach that considers the 'human factor' in health policy and processes to combat this growing threat.
A national study found that retirees who continue to work in a bridge job experience fewer major diseases and functional limitations than those who fully retire. People whose post-retirement jobs are related to their previous careers report better mental health.
Researchers found that high Treg levels protect against severe West Nile virus disease in humans and mice. Tregs suppress the function of other immune cells, preventing lethal infection.
The University of Adelaide's Professor Konrad Jamrozik has spent 30 years campaigning against smoking and helping smokers quit. He has contributed significantly to tobacco control through his research, clinical trials, and advocacy.
A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that home healthcare nurses are at risk of needlestick-type injuries, with nearly 10,000 reported annually. The study also revealed a correlation between stressful household conditions and increased risk of needlesticks.
Buruli ulcer is caused by mycobacterium ulcerans and primarily affects poor rural communities in tropical countries. The new study aims to identify the natural reservoir for the disease, its activation, and transmission to humans.
A new study from UAB researchers found that childbearing is associated with a higher incidence of the metabolic syndrome in women. Women who had gestational diabetes were nearly twice as likely to develop the syndrome as those without it. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and healthy eating, may help prevent disease later in life.
This article provides practical guidance for diagnosing adult asthma, including occupational asthma, using patient history, physical examination, and definitive diagnostic testing like spirometry. The goal is to accurately diagnose or exclude the possibility of asthma and treat patients accordingly.
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover Lysyl-tRNA synthetase's regulatory role in gene expression, potentially leading to new therapies for diseases like AIDS and breast cancer. The molecule is also involved in viral replication and high levels have been observed in certain cancers.
Daily commuting patterns in mega-cities may contribute to the resurgence of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Researchers suggest looking beyond traditional transmission clusters and considering novel ways to control community transmission.
The study found that regular CGM use is the primary factor in achieving better diabetes control, regardless of age. People using CGM devices six days per week or more showed similar levels of improvement in diabetes control across all age groups, from children to adults.
Researchers found that house screening reduced mosquito numbers by 49-59% and malaria-related anaemia in children by half. The authors suggest integrating house screening into vector management programs to combat malaria.
A study found that children in Ethiopia who received azithromycin for trachoma had a 49% lower odds of death compared to those who didn't receive the antibiotic. The treatment may have reduced mortality from pneumonia, diarrhea, and malaria, major causes of death in children in trachoma-endemic areas.
Researchers identified miR-143 and miR-145 as key regulators of VSMC contractility and blood pressure. The study found that mice lacking these microRNAs had reduced contractile VSMCs and increased tissue matrix-producing cells, leading to signs of blood vessel disease.
A study found that miR-143 and miR-145 regulate the contractile nature of vascular smooth muscle cells, with their absence leading to increased tissue matrix production and signs of blood vessel disease. The findings suggest these microRNAs could serve as therapeutic targets for enhancing blood vessel repair.