Huge progress made using insecticide-treated bednets from 2000-2007
Insecticide-treated bednet coverage increased from 1.8% in 2000 to 18.5% by 2007, leaving 89.6 million children unprotected, with 25% in Nigeria alone.
Disease Control
Articles tagged with Disease Control
Regulation of tobacco products favors big tobacco, makes US farms less stable
A new study reveals proposed FDA regulation fails to address migrant worker suffering, smoking prevalence, or outsourcing of leaf production. The regulation may favor big tobacco by reducing liability and sustaining global operations.
Cradle & Grave: Porter Novelli advises businesses to adapt to trends in life and death
The 'Cradle & Grave' white paper examines seismic changes in birth, health, and death trends, influencing the future administration and Americans contemplating their futures. Gary Stockman highlights outdated assumptions shaping unrealistic expectations and poor choices.
'Superbugs' on the rise in Canadian hospitals, new Queen's study shows
A new national survey by Queen's University shows that despite increased investment in infection control since the SARS crisis, the number of resistant bacterial infections has multiplied. The study highlights a need for continued investment in infection control resources and programs to combat the growing threat of superbugs.
Smaller mosquitoes are more likey to be infected with viruses causing human diseases
Researchers found that smaller mosquitoes have higher infection rates and potential to transmit dengue virus than larger individuals. The study suggests that control strategies may benefit from producing larger, less competent adult mosquitoes in terms of infection, potentially mitigating dengue transmission.
WHO funding does not match global disease burdens
A study found that the World Health Organization's (WHO) budget allocations do not align with global disease burdens. The WHO allocated 87% of its budget to infectious diseases, while non-communicable diseases received only 12%. This disparity in funding is concerning, particularly for injuries and violence, which are largely underfunded.
Dramatic fall in number of malaria deaths along Kenyan coast
A recent study found a remarkable 75% decrease in severe malaria deaths from 10.8 to 1.2 per 10,000 between 2015 and 2020 along the Kenyan coast. The decline is attributed to improved treatment, bednet usage, and mosquito breeding site management.
Media coverage affects how people perceive threat of disease: study
A study from McMaster University found that media coverage greatly influences public perception of infectious diseases, making them appear more threatening. Researchers discovered that diseases receiving frequent press attention, like bird flu, are perceived as more serious than those without similar coverage.
Researchers downplay MRSA screening as effective infection control intervention
MRSA infections cause only 14 percent of hospital infections, making targeted screening programs less effective. A study by VCU epidemiologists suggests that hospital-wide infection control practices can prevent more infections than focusing on a single pathogen.
One-third of world smokers are Chinese men: Just 1 part of China's chronic disease battle
China faces a significant health and economic challenge due to rising chronic diseases, including high blood pressure and smoking. The country has an ageing population and increasing rates of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, with tobacco use being a major factor in these trends.
China's early detection system could be vital in warning world of bird flu pandemic
The Chinese early detection system for infectious diseases has identified clusters of bird-flu in humans in real time, providing authorities with early warning of the start of a pandemic. The system has been instrumental in reducing the impact of infectious diseases, with significant gains in life expectancy and infant mortality rates.
Governments urged to fight global child killer
A new report highlights the urgent need to tackle pneumococcal disease, a leading cause of death among children under five. The UK All-Party Parliamentary Group recommends increasing vaccine availability and healthcare system strengthening in developing countries to reduce child mortality rates.
Vision loss more common in people with diabetes
People with diabetes are at higher risk of visual impairment due to diabetic retinopathy and other ocular conditions. Approximately 11% of American adults with diabetes have some form of visual impairment, compared to 5.9% without the disease.
Mayo researchers explore issues related to multiple myeloma treatment
A study by Mayo researchers found that outpatient stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma patients resulted in a high survival rate of 99% at 100 days. The treatment also showed significantly shorter hospital stays, with a median duration of four days for those who required some hospital care.
Researchers study how pistachios may improve heart health
Researchers found that pistachio diets can beneficially affect cardiovascular disease risk factors in a dose-dependent manner. The study suggests that pistachios may decrease CVD risk profile through effects on Stearoyl CoA Desaturase (SCD) and other bioactive substances.
NTDs burden in Latin America and the Caribbean may exceed that of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria
According to a new analysis, NTDs as a group may have surpassed HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria as the most prevalent infectious diseases in Latin America and the Caribbean. The region is home to approximately 200 million people affected by NTDs, including intestinal worm infections and Chagas disease.
When healing turns to scarring: Research reveals why it happens and how to stop it
Fibrotic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer involve scarring, affecting organ function. Research by the University of Western Ontario identified glycogen synthase kinase 3 as a brake that can be impaired, leading to scarring.
Serious disease in pet lizards caused by new bacteria
Researchers have discovered a new bacterium responsible for dermatitis and septicaemia in desert-dwelling lizards. The discovery could help control the disease and protect endangered species, particularly those bred in captivity for release into the wild.
Pain appears common among patients with Parkinson's disease
A study of 402 Parkinson's disease patients found that 69.9% experienced pain, compared to 62.8% in healthy controls. Pain types included cramping and central neuropathic pain, suggesting a link between brain structures and pain processing.
UT Knoxville wins $16M NSF mathematics and biology center
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville has been awarded a $16 million NSF grant to create the National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis, or NIMBioS. Researchers from around the world will collaborate on finding creative solutions to pressing problems in fields like animal disease control and wildfire management.
Are diabetes and obesity linked to periodontitis?
A new study led by Dr. Keiko Watanabe found that periodontitis accelerates insulin resistance in rats with a high-fat diet. The research will explore the impact of periodontitis on diabetic complications in the retina, aorta and pancreas.
Tobacco control programs reduce health-care costs
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that tobacco control programs in California reduced personal health care expenditures by $86 billion between 1989 and 2004. The program's cost savings grew over time, reaching 7.3% in 2003-2004, and represented a significant return on investment for the state.
Proton pump inhibitors increase risk of bone fractures
Patients taking proton pump inhibitors for 7 years or more are at higher risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. The study found a significant increase in hip fracture risk after 5 years and any fracture risk after 7 years of continuous exposure.
People with heart disease still have trouble controlling blood lipid levels
A UC Irvine study found that only 17% of adults with cardiovascular diseases have optimal levels for all lipids, compared to 85% of those without heart disease. The researchers emphasize the importance of proper diet, exercise, and medication to target all lipids.
Innovative diabetes program in Bloomington-Normal, Ill., a success
The Diabetes Checks & Balances program has shown positive outcomes in its first year, with 29% of participants receiving all four tests, including HbA1c and eye exams. This increase is nearly twice as high as in 2006, suggesting improved diabetes management among local residents.
Drinking in excess associated with increased risk for metabolic syndrome
A new study found that those who drink excessively are at increased risk for metabolic syndrome, a condition associated with cardiovascular disease. The study analyzed data from over 1,500 participants and found that most people in the US drink in ways that may increase their risk of metabolic syndrome.
Study helps identify which populations of foreign-born persons living in US at higher risk of TB
A study identifies US foreign-born persons from certain regions as being at a higher risk of contracting and spreading tuberculosis. The research highlights the need for targeted TB control strategies to address the growing burden of latent TB infection in this population.
Online courses boost infection control skills that could prove vital in a pandemic
A study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing found that online courses can enhance knowledge and skills in infection control procedures. Healthcare professionals who took part in the course reported improved hand hygiene practices, increased glove use, and better waste disposal processes.
Stanford Bio-X researchers use needle-thin probe to get first look at working muscle fiber
Researchers from Stanford's Bio-X program have devised a needle-thin probe to observe sarcomeres, the basic contracting engines of muscle, in live humans. This microendoscopy technique provides an alternative to painful muscle biopsy and could prove useful in understanding muscular diseases.
The way to a virus' 'heart' is through its enzymes
Scientists have made significant progress in understanding the replication of bluetongue virus, a major economic threat to farming. The 'heart' of the virus lies in its enzymes, which are crucial for initiating and sustaining infection.
Lay your eggs here
Researchers found that female mosquitoes are attracted to water containers with specific fatty acids and methyl esters from bacteria, which stimulate them to lay eggs. The study aims to use this knowledge to devise lures and traps to control yellow fever mosquito populations, preventing global diseases like dengue fever.
UTSA/UTHSCSA publish results on bio-threat agent
Researchers at UTSA have identified mast cells as a potential player in combating tularemia, a life-threatening respiratory pathogen. The study suggests that mast cells can interact with other cells to control bacterial replication, opening up new avenues for understanding the immune system's response to tularemia.
Food scientists confirm commercial product effectively kills bacteria in vegetable washwater
A commercially available fruit and vegetable wash has been found to be highly effective in killing disease-causing bacteria in produce-processing washwater. This could significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination in food plants.
Hospital overcrowding, understaffing and MRSA incidence -- a vicious cycle
Overcrowding and understaffing in hospitals exacerbate MRSA control issues, leading to increased hospital stays and bed blocking. Effective infection control measures can help mitigate the problem, but addressing overcrowding and workforce shortages is crucial for improving patient safety and quality of care.
Walk your way to a healthier lifestyle
A new study shows that various interventions can motivate individuals to initiate walking behaviors, with certain strategies showing more promise than others. The review of studies found that frequency and duration of telephone prompts, as well as encouraging moderate-paced walking, were key factors in increasing walking behavior.
Diabetic women get less intense treatment of heart disease than men
Women with type 2 diabetes and heart disease have poorer control of both diseases and receive less intensive medical treatment than do men. Women are also more likely to have uncontrolled high blood pressure and poor long-term control of their blood glucose levels compared to men.
New self-management program offers significant benefits for arthritis patients with chronic pain
A new two-week self-management programme significantly reduces healthcare visits, pain scores, and health distress in arthritis patients with chronic pain. The programme's benefits were sustained for six months with continued improvements up to a year later.
Researchers uncover higher prevalence of periodontal disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Researchers found that RA patients are nearly eight times more likely to have periodontal disease than healthy controls. The study suggests that impaired oral hygiene is only part of the connection and that other systemic inflammatory disorders may play a role.
Managing noncommunicable diseases in Africa: What can we learn from TB control?
Sub-Saharan Africa faces frequent stock interruptions of essential drugs for managing non-communicable diseases. Implementing standardized approaches to NCD management, as seen in TB control, can improve patient care and outcomes. A five-point framework called DOTS provides lessons for NCD control.
Eating and weight gain not necessarily linked, study shows
A recent study using Caenorhabditis elegans to examine the relationship between eating and weight gain found that increased eating does not necessarily lead to increased fat. The researchers discovered two separate signaling channels controlled by serotonin, which regulates feeding and fat metabolism.
Tourists to the Caribbean should pay 1 dollar each to help fight tropical diseases of poverty
The Caribbean region has a high burden of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) due to poverty. A proposed $1 tourist tax could fund disease control efforts and is supported by industry donations of low-cost generic drugs.
Intensive care units' prevention of pneumonia in critically ill patients generally strong
The study found that Mayo Clinic's intensive care unit (ICU) pneumonia prevention rate is similar to the national average, but lower for trauma ICUs. The most common pathogen causing VAP was Pseudomonas aeruginosa, highlighting the need for targeted antibiotic treatment.
Nearly 40 percent of GERD patients taking PPIs experience recurring symptoms
A recent survey found that nearly 40% of GERD patients on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) experience breakthrough symptoms, requiring additional over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. More than half of these patients use OTC remedies to manage their symptoms, often using antacids as a stop-gap.
ASGE issues updated infection control guidelines for gastrointestinal endoscopy
The ASGE has updated its infection control guidelines to emphasize the importance of rigorous endoscope reprocessing and adherence to general infection control principles. These guidelines aim to reduce the risk of patient-to-patient transmission of microorganisms during GI endoscopy procedures.
New study shows how genes control blood proteins important to health
A new study reveals that diet and lifestyle are not the only factors influencing blood protein levels, with genetics playing a significant role. The study identified variations in genes associated with key proteins like HDL cholesterol and interleukins, which play roles in inflammatory diseases.
Pilot study reinforces use of portable anteroom HEPA filtration
Researchers found that a portable anteroom HEPA filtration unit can effectively remove airborne microorganisms, including M. tuberculosis, from operating rooms. The study suggests that this unit can help prevent secondary transmission of airborne pathogens and improve patient and healthcare personnel safety.
Prevention and control of childhood pneumonia: Bulletin of the World Health Organization
Childhood pneumonia is a leading killer of children worldwide with over two million deaths annually. Proven preventive measures include vaccination, exclusive breastfeeding, zinc supplementation, and controlling indoor air pollution.
High blood pressure still sneaking past doctors, Stanford study shows
Despite widespread awareness of high blood pressure's dangers, a Stanford study found major shortfalls in screening, treatment, and control of the disease even with doctor care. Only 39% of treated patients achieved recommended blood pressure levels, highlighting the need for increased routine screenings and personalized treatment plans.
'Crime Scene Investigation' methods could help in the battle against hospital infections
Researchers in the Netherlands used Luminol to detect traces of blood on surfaces in their haemodialysis unit, highlighting infection risks. The results suggest that Luminol can be used as part of a hospital infection control regimen to monitor cleaning and disinfection procedures.
Belief that chronic cough is only connected to other conditions hinders new treatment development
A two-part series explores chronic cough, defined as a cough lasting longer than eight weeks, affecting 9-33% of the population. The causes are diverse, including airway diseases and cardiovascular conditions, and often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as idiopathic.
Health care workers should be more aggressively screened
A review of 33318 screened healthcare workers found that 4.6% carried MRSA, with 5.1% having clinical infections. Aggressive screening is recommended to control transmission and protect patients, especially in high-risk units.
Largest ever study of genetics of common disease just got bigger
A £30 million follow-up study will analyze 120,000 DNA samples from people with 25 common diseases, including multiple sclerosis and asthma. The research aims to identify the genes underlying these conditions and develop new treatments.
Leading experts investigate Shaken Baby Syndrome
The symposium examined the incidence of inflicted traumatic brain injury in young children and explored issues of definitions, surveillance methods, and prevention strategies. Key findings indicate that SBS is a form of intentional injury with a high mortality rate and long-term disability for survivors.
New pan-European collaboration launched into the diagnosis and control of coeliac disease
A new pan-European collaboration aims to design an advanced diagnostic tool for coeliac disease, the most under-diagnosed common chronic condition in the UK. The project will unite technologies for point of care diagnostics and embedded communication, enabling easy follow-up and management of patients.
Statement by the American Egg Board and Egg Nutrition Center on AJCN study on egg consumption
A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found an association between high egg consumption and all-cause mortality. However, the researchers did not control for various factors, such as saturated fat intake, which may confound the interpretation of the findings.
Kidney cancer deaths show overall decrease in Europe
A recent study published in BJU International found that kidney cancer deaths in Europe have declined by 13% for men and 17% for women between 1992 and 2002, with the largest reductions seen in Austria and Germany. However, the study also reveals significant variations in mortality rates across different countries.
New York infection prevention expert named recipient of Carole DeMille Award
Rachel L. Stricof, a leading expert in infection prevention, has been recognized with the prestigious Carole DeMille Achievement Award for her dedication to improving health and patient safety. With over 30 years of experience, she has established innovative reporting systems and collaborated with policymakers to reduce HAI rates.
Hepatitis B virus triggers cell 'suicide' in patients with chronic infection
Researchers found that T cells in chronically infected patients are triggered to commit suicide due to the presence of a protein called 'Bim'. This discovery provides a new target for developing therapies and vaccines to boost the body's ability to manage Hepatitis B infection.
New data on 3M's Tegaderm CHG
New data on 3M's Tegaderm CHG shows it significantly suppresses skin flora regrowth, with superior prevention of flora regrowth on prepped skin compared to transparent dressings and BIOPATCH.
Binge drinkers are responsible for most alcohol-impaired driving on American roads
A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that approximately 84 percent of AI drivers were binge drinkers, and 88 percent of episodes involved binge drinkers. The research highlights the need for effective interventions to change policy focus and reduce excessive drinking behavior.