Research on containing and managing disease. Covers critical-illness theory, zoonotic disease, immunotherapy trials, and historical epidemics.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that community-based education increased treatment compliance from 50% to 90% in Orissa State, India. The intervention combined timely educational programs with lymphedema management, reversing the trend and increasing drug compliance.
The ACCORD study found that intensive glucose treatment delayed albuminuria onset but didn't reduce microvascular complications like eye disease or kidney failure. However, it increased mortality, weight gain, and severe hypoglycemia risk, prompting a shift to standard therapy.
In a study of over 10,000 adults with type 2 diabetes, intensive glucose control did not delay the progression to kidney failure, major vision loss, or advanced peripheral neuropathy. However, it reduced signs of damage, such as decreased protein leakage in urine and lower cataract surgery rates.
Phytophthora blight affects all cucurbits and peppers, causing up to 100% crop loss in parts of the state. Illinois-grown processing pumpkins account for nearly 95% of US supply, with a gross value exceeding $160 million per year.
A new study published in The Lancet found that exposure to arsenic in drinking water is linked to increased mortality rates, particularly among those with heart disease and other chronic conditions. Researchers tracked 12,000 people in Bangladesh over a decade to gather data on the health effects of arsenic exposure.
A 13-year study found a higher incidence rate of serious liver disease in adults with newly diagnosed diabetes compared to non-diabetic controls. The study suggests that insulin resistance and fatty load in the liver may contribute to liver disease in people with diabetes.
A recent study in Hong Kong found that fear of the H1N1 virus prompted residents to adopt preventive behaviors such as frequent hand-washing (47% reported washing hands >10 times/day) and wearing face-masks. These behaviors can play a crucial role in controlling pandemic influenza.
A study published in JAMA found that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most commonly detected virus among Kenyan children with severe pneumonia. RSV was associated with increased risk of admission with severe disease, suggesting that vaccination may offer significant public health benefits.
Researchers found RSV was the predominant virus detected among infants and children hospitalized with severe pneumonia in Kenya. The study suggests that RSV vaccination may offer considerable public health benefit, potentially reducing all-cause clinically severe or very severe pneumonia admissions by one-third.
The 'manifesto' outlines eight key points, including NTDs are tool ready with cost-efficient interventions, yet tool deficient, requiring sustained international support and community involvement to achieve global NTD control. The authors emphasize the need for urgent, renewed, and innovative efforts to tackle NTDs.
A team of scientists finds that global warming is unlikely to expand the range of malaria due to effective control measures, urbanization and economic development. Malaria control efforts have reduced the disease's prevalence over the past century despite a global temperature rise.
Experts warn that weak health systems are impeding global efforts to control tuberculosis, with rapidly introduced suboptimum reforms harming national targets. However, innovative solutions from countries like Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Tanzania, Thailand, and Vietnam have shown promise in addressing bottlenecks.
The article highlights the growing concern of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) becoming a dominant strain worldwide. MDR TB poses a major threat to existing TB control programmes due to its association with lower cure rates and higher mortality rates than drug-susceptible TB disease.
Research suggests that individuals taking dopamine agonist medications for Parkinson's disease are at a higher risk of developing compulsive behaviors. The DOMINION Study, which analyzed data from 3,090 patients, found that dopamine agonists were associated with an increased odds of having an impulse control disorder.
A new bacterial species found in the fly that transmits African sleeping sickness has been identified as a potential tool for controlling the disease. The bacterium, named Serratia glossinae, has shown promise in killing the parasite that causes the disease and could lead to new treatment strategies.
The article argues that investing in neglected disease control is a more effective use of resources than maintaining nuclear arsenals. With $1 billion, the 11 nuclear power states could eliminate or control neglected infections, which account for up to 50% of global diseases.
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.
Arthritis disproportionately affects African Americans and Hispanics, with higher prevalence of activity limitation, work limitation, and severe joint pain. Simple steps like weight loss and physical activity can make a big difference in managing arthritis.
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.
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.
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 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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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 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 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%.