Disease Intervention

Clinical decision support for chronic kidney disease in primary care

Disparities in disease presentation and treatment initiation for de novo metastatic breast cancer

A cross-sectional study of patients with de novo metastatic breast cancer found racial and ethnic disparities in disease presentation. De novo metastatic breast cancer disproportionately contributes to breast cancer mortality in the U.S., emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to improve care delivery and outcomes.

Prepregnancy care and counseling

Primary care-based discussions on reproductive goals, immunizations, and risk-reducing interventions optimize pregnancy outcomes. Prepregnancy counseling reduces maternal morbidity and mortality, while also promoting healthy fetal development.

Adaptive mobile health intervention to reduce excess gestational weight gain

A cluster-randomized trial found that an adaptive mobile health intervention effectively reduced the rate of gestational weight gain and total gestational weight gain among pregnant patients with overweight or obesity. The study suggests that technology-based interventions can be a valuable tool in managing excess weight during pregnancy.

Heavy drinking, alcohol use disorder, and obesity

A nationally representative study found nearly 1 in 10 U.S. adults with heavy drinking and obesity conditions, highlighting the need for preventive efforts in younger and middle-aged adults without insurance or Medicaid coverage to curb rising rates of alcohol-associated liver disease deaths.

Fast-Track Health announces launch of the Journal of Fast-Track Health in partnership with MDPI

Sleep health dimensions from wearables and transdiagnostic mental health in young adolescents

The study identified six sleep health dimensions in young adolescents: irregularity, timing, duration, social jetlag, weekend oversleep, and continuity. Greater irregularity was associated with higher concurrent transdiagnostic mental health symptoms, while shorter duration was linked to increased symptoms at follow-up.

FAU discovery of tiny cell ‘tunnels’ finds new path to slow Huntington’s disease

Huntington's disease is caused by a toxic protein that builds in brain cells and spreads to other cells through tunneling nanotubes. Disrupting this pathway reduces the spread of the disease-causing protein, suggesting a new target for therapy.

Colorectal cancer risk with negative colonoscopy or nonadherence after positive fecal occult blood test screening

A decrease in colorectal cancer incidence was observed among individuals with negative screening colonoscopy results, particularly men, suggesting risk-based follow-up strategies. Nonadherence to scheduled colonoscopies increased the risk of CRC, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve early detection.

New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors

A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...

Recovery experiences of older adults and their caregivers after major elective noncardiac surgery

A mixed-methods cohort study found daily living impairment is linked to slower recovery in older adults post-surgery. Targeted interventions, such as preoperative education and caregiver support, can optimize recovery experiences for both patients and caregivers.

Digital microsteps as scalable adjuncts for adults using GLP-1 receptor agonists

A low-cost digital intervention increased expectation to adopt health behaviors among adults using GLP-1RAs, with effects persisting for 2 weeks. The written microsteps intervention plus short video boosters may play a role in promoting sustained behavior change.

Incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest on a postholiday weekday

A nationwide cohort study found a significantly elevated incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests on post-holiday weekdays, particularly among vulnerable populations after consecutive rest days. The study supports enhanced emergency preparedness and targeted public health messaging during holiday periods.

Adolescent cannabis use and risk of psychotic, bipolar, depressive, and anxiety disorders

A cohort study found that adolescent cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders, particularly psychotic and bipolar conditions. The study's results inform the development of interventions and policies to prevent or delay adolescent cannabis use.

Joint and independent associations of gestational diabetes and depression with childhood obesity

Cohort study finds prenatal depression and gestational diabetes independently increase childhood obesity risk, while children exposed to both face the greatest risk, highlighting need for universal screening and targeted interventions.

Socioeconomic status and postpartum depression risk by state trigger laws after dobbs

A cohort study found a disproportionate increase in postpartum depression among women and adolescents in low-socioeconomic status communities following state abortion bans. The legislation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for targeted mental health support and policy interventions.

Opportunistic salpingectomy for prevention of tubo-ovarian carcinoma

A study published in JAMA found that salpingectomy significantly lowers the risk of developing tubo-ovarian carcinoma. The procedure, typically performed during unrelated pelvic or abdominal surgery, is now recommended as a preventive measure for eligible women.

Life-course psychosocial stress and risk of dementia and stroke in middle-aged and older adults

Adverse experiences throughout life increase dementia and stroke risks, with depression as a mediating factor. Implementing life-course interventions addressing psychological trauma and mental health can reduce neurovascular disease burden.

US state-level prevalence of adult obesity by race and ethnicity from 1990 to 2022 and forecasted to 2035

The study analyzed US state-level adult obesity prevalence from 1990 to 2022, showing a significant increase to 42.5% by 2022 and forecasted to 46.9% by 2035. Disparities in obesity rates vary substantially by race and ethnicity.

Medicaid expansion and overall mortality among women with breast cancer

A cohort study found that Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act was associated with lower overall mortality among women with breast cancer aged 40-64. The benefits of expanded coverage were uneven, highlighting persistent disparities in healthcare access for certain populations.

Interactive virtual assistant for health promotion among older adults with type 2 diabetes

A randomized clinical trial found that a smart speaker-based intervention significantly improved mental distress, quality of life, and diabetes self-care among older adults with type 2 diabetes. This easily implemented self-management strategy may enhance health outcomes in this population.

Cells that are not our own may unlock secrets about our health

Researchers are studying microchimeric cells that can play complex roles in a person's body, including healing wounds and regulating the immune system. However, more research is needed to understand their role in health outcomes, particularly pregnancy complications and autoimmune diseases.

Community water fluoridation and birth outcomes

A large cohort study found no association between community water fluoridation and adverse birth outcomes, providing reassurance about its safety during pregnancy. The study highlights the importance of rigorous causal designs in evaluating public health interventions.

The lifesaving potential of opioid abatement funds

Financial settlements from opioid epidemic lawsuits are being redirected to fund potentially lifesaving interventions. These efforts aim to curb overdose deaths and improve public health outcomes.

Body composition changes after bariatric surgery or treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists

Both bariatric surgery and semaglutide treatment were associated with significant fat mass loss, moderate fat-free mass loss, and an improved FFM to fat mass ratio. These findings support interventions aimed at preserving muscle mass while promoting weight loss.

Costs pose hurdle for promising new hepatitis C lab test

A new rapid test for hepatitis C could identify more patients who can be cured if insurers increase reimbursement to cover the test's high cost. The test's point-of-care feature makes it ideal for early screening and treatment in clinics and emergency rooms.

Obstructive sleep apnea risk and mental health conditions among older adults

A national longitudinal cohort study found consistently worse mental health outcomes among middle-aged and older adults at high risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Integrated screening and intervention strategies are needed to address this association.

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist use and vertebral fracture risk in type 2 diabetes

Using GLP-1 receptor agonists may lower the risk of vertebral compression fractures and related surgical interventions in people with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that these medications have a bone-protective effect, offering benefits for patients.

Semaglutide and early-stage metabolic abnormalities in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders

A randomized clinical trial shows that semaglutide improves glycemic control and weight outcomes in individuals with schizophrenia. The study suggests using glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists as an early intervention strategy to reduce cardiometabolic risk in this population.

Prevalence, characteristics, and genetic architecture of avoidant/restrictive food intake phenotypes

A substantial prevalence of avoidant/restrictive food intake was found in the general pediatric population, with affected children at risk of developmental difficulties across multiple domains. The study suggests a need for broad support interventions and advances understanding of the genetic underpinnings of this condition.

Physical activity over the adult life course and risk of dementia in the Framingham heart study

Adults with higher levels of physical activity during midlife and late life have a lower risk of all-cause and Alzheimer's disease dementia. This cohort study, part of the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort, found similar reductions in risk across different age groups.

Evaluation of a state-level incentive program to improve diet

A state-level incentive program aimed at improving diet in SNAP participants showed no significant increase in fruit and vegetable intake. However, the study found benefits among existing high-fruit-and-vegetable consumers. Enhanced implementation strategies may be needed to maximize public health outcomes.

Intranasal oxytocin and physical intimacy for dermatological wound healing and neuroendocrine stress

A study found that intimate physical contact reduces cortisol responses, while oxytocin administration promotes wound healing. This integration of relationship dynamics and neurohormonal modulation may lead to future interventions for improved health and recovery.

Participant experiences in a kidney failure care intervention in the navigate-kidney study

The navigate-kidney study finds that community health workers enhance holistic, patient-centered care through improved patient engagement and emotional wellbeing. This integration into dialysis care teams may lead to better outcomes for patients with kidney failure.

Community health worker support for Hispanic and Latino individuals receiving hemodialysis

A culturally tailored community health worker intervention modestly lowered interdialytic weight gain and improved dialysis adherence among Hispanic and Latino patients with hemodialysis-dependent kidney failure. This study suggests that such interventions can enhance patient outcomes for these vulnerable populations.

Increased avoidance learning in chronic opioid users

This study confirms the role of negative reinforcement in chronic opioid use, contributing to addiction development. The findings suggest that this mechanism is present even after regular opioid use, highlighting potential for more effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Online unsupervised Tai Chi intervention for knee pain and function in people with knee osteoarthritis

A randomized clinical trial found that an unsupervised online Tai Chi intervention improved knee pain and function compared to the control group at 12 weeks. This free web-based intervention offers a safe, accessible, and scalable option for guideline-recommended osteoarthritis exercise.

A direct-to-patient digital health program for lung cancer screening

A direct-to-patient digital health intervention increased lung cancer screening rates compared to enhanced usual care. The study's findings suggest that such interventions could improve lung cancer screening across diverse populations and healthcare settings.

One-year outcomes after traumatic brain injury and early extracranial surgery in the TRACK-TBI Study

A cohort study found that early extracranial surgery was associated with adverse outcomes in function, cognition, and disability after moderate-severe traumatic brain injury. The study suggests that further research is needed to determine if surgical timing or other interventions can improve long-term deficits.

Report: Cardiovascular diseases caused 1 in 3 global deaths in 2023

The latest Global Burden of Disease study reveals a significant increase in cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden worldwide, with CVD causing one in three deaths globally. The report estimates that 79.6% of all CVD deaths are attributable to modifiable risk factors, which has increased globally by 97.4 million since 1990.

Disparities by race and ethnicity in percutaneous coronary intervention

This study highlights racial and ethnic disparities in percutaneous coronary intervention, with the largest disparity occurring when patients initially present to PCI-capable hospitals. Racial disparities persisted throughout the care process, affecting patients' receipt of PCI.

Childhood loneliness and cognitive decline and dementia risk in middle-aged and older adults

A cohort study found that childhood loneliness was associated with cognitive decline and increased dementia risk in later life. Early interventions may help promote lifelong cognitive health and reduce dementia risk.

Modifiable parental factors and adolescent sleep during early adolescence

A prospective study of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development cohort found that modifiable parental factors, such as screen use and emotional regulation, are associated with specific adolescent sleep outcomes. Parental warmth is also linked to sleep chronotype, highlighting potential targets for evidence-based interventions.

Impact of a weight loss intervention on 1-year weight change in women with stage II/III breast cancer

A telephone-based weight loss intervention significantly reduced weight in breast cancer patients with overweight and obesity. The study suggests that this intervention may improve disease outcomes, warranting further investigation in future trials.

Bentham Science releases groundbreaking reference on organoid technology for next-generation biomedical research

The new book explores organoid bioengineering, using pluripotent and adult stem cells to create models for various organs. It discusses breakthroughs in personalized cancer care and large-scale production protocols supported by advanced tools like 3D printing and genome editing.

Demographics, lifestyle, comorbidities, prediabetes, and mortality

Younger adults with prediabetes are at increased risk of mortality, highlighting the importance of age-specific interventions and targeted prevention programs. Lifestyle behaviors and limited health care access contribute to this risk, underscoring the need for flexible and accessible diabetes prevention options.

The health impact of wildfires in Los Angeles County and Maui

Research shows that the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires resulted in an estimated 440 excess deaths, while the 2023 Maui wildfires led to immediate increases in suicide and overdose deaths. Higher social support was linked to improved mental health outcomes but did not buffer physiological effects.

Impact of the MISSION act on quality and outcomes of major cardiovascular procedures among veterans

The MISSION Act implementation led to significant decreases in travel times for eligible veterans seeking non-VA care. However, this shift was linked to a rise in major adverse cardiovascular events within 30 days of procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting.

US POINTER trial: Structured lifestyle intervention delays cognitive decline

The US POINTER trial found that a structured lifestyle intervention of regular exercise, adherence to the MIND diet and social engagement had greater benefits on global cognition compared to an unstructured intervention. The study showed significant cognitive benefit after two years in older adults at elevated risk of Alzheimer disease.

COVID-19 vaccine booster uptake and effectiveness among US adults with cancer

A retrospective cohort study found that COVID-19 booster vaccinations significantly protected against severe COVID-19, but uptake was low. Interventions are needed to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake among high-risk populations with cancer.

Prevalence of extremely severe obesity and metabolic dysfunction among US children and adolescents

The study found a significant increase in extremely severe obesity among US children and adolescents, leading to severe metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Extremely severe obesity was linked to conditions like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, prediabetes or diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

Pediatric COVID-19 hospitalization trends by race and ethnicity, 2020-2023

This study found that Black and Hispanic children were disproportionately hospitalized for COVID-19 and experienced severe disease compared to white and Asian or Pacific Islander children. Children with underlying medical conditions from these groups also had a higher proportion of hospitalizations.

GLP-1 receptor agonists in idiopathic intracranial hypertension

A new study found significant reductions in medication use, symptoms, and procedural interventions with GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy for idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Delayed hypertension diagnosis and its association with cardiovascular treatment and outcomes

Delays in hypertension diagnosis were common, associated with delayed treatment initiation and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The study highlights the need for earlier identification and intervention to improve treatment and patient outcomes.

Racial inequities and access to COVID-19 treatment

A cross-sectional study revealed racial disparities in COVID-19 treatment, with targeted interventions like expanding rapid test access and virtual care potentially improving equity. The findings suggest that encounter-level factors, such as differences in diagnostic test type and site of care, contribute to these inequities.

Addictive screen use trajectories and suicidal behaviors, suicidal ideation, and mental health in US youths

A study identified distinct trajectories of addictive social media, mobile phone, and video game use in US youths, finding links to increased suicidal ideation and worse mental health outcomes. The research suggests that high or increasing addictive screen use may warrant further clinical evaluation and intervention design.

Alcohol-associated liver disease mortality

This cross-sectional study reveals a substantial rise in alcohol-associated liver disease mortality, particularly among women and younger adults. The findings highlight the importance of targeted public health initiatives to address this growing health concern.

BMI, physical activity, and subsequent neoplasm risk among childhood cancer survivors

A cohort study found that obesity in childhood cancer survivors is linked to an increased risk of developing multiple subsequent neoplasms. Conversely, high levels of physical activity are associated with a reduced risk of these cancers.

Severe maternal morbidity by race and ethnicity and birth mode

A cross-sectional study found elevated rates of severe maternal morbidity among marginalized racial and ethnic groups with planned cesarean births. The study emphasizes the need for interventions to improve quality of care and promote equity for this population.

Early-life low lead levels and academic achievement in childhood and adolescence

A cohort study found that lower-than-recommended lead levels were associated with worse academic grades, suggesting the need to reconsider current blood lead reference values for further interventions. The findings support lowering these values to improve outcomes for children and adolescents.