Articles tagged with Disease Intervention
State policies on insulin copayment caps showed no increase in insulin use but reduced OOP costs, particularly for high-deductible health plans with HSAs. Insulin users benefited from cost savings, but higher-income users experienced larger decreases in OOP costs.
A UK trial found that giving e-cigarette starter packs to smokers in emergency departments led to a significant increase in quitting, with nearly one-quarter of participants successful after six months. The intervention also helped those who didn't quit reduce their cigarette smoking.
Researchers found that AI models using language patterns from past studies are less predictive for depression among Black people on Facebook. The study suggests that considering intersection of race and social media can improve depression detection, and calls for more data to learn depression patterns in Black individuals. Better under...
A new study found that COVID-19 vaccine uptake was low across all four UK nations, with only 35% of children receiving the first dose. The study also revealed disparities in vaccination rates based on age, sex, household factors, and location.
A study published in Genome Medicine uses digital twins to computationally treat thousands of medications in individual patients with autoimmune diseases, finding promising results in mice and human tissue samples. The technology has the potential to revolutionize precision medicine by providing tailored medication for each patient.
Research found that certain patterns of pregnancy history, including early deliveries and multiple hypertensive disorders, are associated with high risk of heart attack and stroke. Others with fewer or no complications have lower risk, suggesting other factors may also play a role in predicting cardiovascular disease mortality.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine-led team has developed a fluid biomarker that can detect the early stages of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The biomarker, HDGFL2, is associated with TDP-43 function loss and can be detected in blood or cerebrospinal fluid samples.
A new pilot study explores the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence-supplemented Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Perfectionism (CBT-P) intervention for young people with anxiety and depression. The research suggests that AI tools could provide strong guidance through a therapy program, while parent support is also crucial in hel...
A new study found that low-level laser therapy (PBM) provides immediate pain relief for Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) patients, with a significant drop in pain scores after each treatment. The study also observed a cumulative effect of PBM on alleviating BMS symptoms, especially up to the third treatment.
A Phase III clinical trial showed that cancer patients who received specialized mental health support experienced lasting improvements in quality of life, reduced pain, depression, and fatigue. The intervention also led to lower risk of cardiovascular disease in family caregivers and substantial cost savings for the healthcare system.
Researchers developed a machine-learning model to assess prostate cancer biopsy samples, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The new model, nnU-Net, provides accurate 3D segmentation of glandular tissue structures, leading to better prognostic analyses and potential improvements in patient outcomes.
A study published in JAMA found that three months of social worker follow-up support improved HIV clinic attendance and antiretroviral therapy initiation, but did not reduce mortality after one year. The intervention, known as Daraja, was highly effective at addressing barriers to care such as stigma and lack of social support.
A new study has revealed a molecular fingerprint of biological aging, shedding light on why people age differently. The researchers identified 25 metabolites that can reflect biological age, known as the Healthy Aging Metabolic (HAM) Index, which was found to be more accurate than other aging metrics.
A study using twin data suggests an association between adverse childhood experiences and poor mental health in adulthood. Targeted interventions may be associated with reduced risks of future psychopathology.
Researchers followed 12 healthy volunteers taking part in a seven-day water-only fast, measuring thousands of proteins in their blood. The study showed that the body undergoes significant changes across multiple organs after three days without food, with potential health benefits visible only after this period.
A study analyzing ELSA data found that osteoporosis, heart disease, and poor hearing increased frailty risk in men, while high fibrinogen levels, diabetes, and stroke were linked to higher risks in women. This highlights the importance of gender-specific action plans and intervention for older people.
A 12-year study published in JAMA found that bariatric surgery significantly improved blood glucose control and type 2 diabetes remission compared to medical management alone. Participants who underwent bariatric surgery experienced greater weight loss, reduced medication use, and higher rates of diabetes remission.
A USC study found that diets high in solid fats and refined grains may increase the likelihood of developing preeclampsia, while a diet rich in vegetables, oils, and fruit may reduce the risk. Low-income Hispanic women are disproportionately affected by this health disparity.
Canadian healthcare leaders call for re-establishment of a national hypertension control program to reduce deaths and disabilities. The program aims to provide population-scale prevention methods, proven to save lives and reduce healthcare costs. Experts highlight the need for collaboration with governments and healthcare providers.
The study reveals a significant prevalence of refractive error in African American adults, affecting their quality of life and work productivity. Providing universal vision care coverage can reduce this burden by over two-thirds, improving lives and increasing economic opportunities.
A UCLA-led study found that a combination of telehealth coaching, peer support, and automated text messages increased PrEP uptake among younger Americans by more than doubling it. The intervention's success suggests the importance of behavioral interventions and wraparound services in supporting HIV prevention.
A study has identified 1,289 genetic markers associated with Type 2 diabetes, including 145 newly discovered markers. The research provides risk scores for diabetes complications and suggests potential genetic targets for new treatments.
A study by the Universities of Göttingen and Bonn found that reducing effort required to opt out of nudged options and increasing transparency of the nudge significantly improved public support for these interventions. The perception of upholding free choice and effectiveness were key drivers of acceptance.
A study of 276,000 children aged 6-23 months in 92 low- and middle-income countries reveals that 10.4% were zero-food children, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to improve infant nutrition. The prevalence is particularly urgent in West and Central Africa and India.
A new study found that healthcare provider perceptions of patient preferences are the biggest barrier to prescribing oral rehydration salts (ORS), which costs only a few cents. Patients expressing a preference for ORS increased prescribing by 27 percentage points, making it an effective intervention.
A global study has identified evidence-based approaches to prevent breast cancer-related arm lymphoedema (BCRAL) by addressing risk factors and implementing surveillance programs. The research provides a clinical guide for healthcare teams worldwide to adopt a proactive approach in preventing this irreversible complication.
The University of Texas at Arlington is advancing its understanding of deadly disease tuberculosis (TB) with a new research project led by associate professor Kayunta Johnson-Winters. The project aims to understand why certain types of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria do not respond to treatments.
A new therapy called NIDUS-Family has shown promising results in improving the lives of people with dementia and their family carers. The study found that those who received the intervention were more likely to achieve their personal goals, such as increasing social engagement or improving caregiver support.
A new study led by University of Bristol researchers found that weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes can alter levels of cancer-related chemicals circulating in the blood. Nine cancer-related proteins were changed by the weight loss intervention, suggesting a potential reduction in cancer risk.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Knoo Lee found that school nurses are well-positioned to identify students at-risk for chronic school absenteeism. Students who have many partial-day absences often proactively seek out school nurses as a source of comfort and support, presenting an opportunity for intervention before...
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Mansoo Yu found that online weight loss interventions with counseling and social support are effective for middle-aged adults with obesity. The study identified two key features: professional health coaching and access to social support from other users, which led to significant long-...
The study found that APOE4 carriers have elevated LDL cholesterol levels, increasing their risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis. In contrast, APOE2 carriers have lower cholesterol and reduced atherosclerosis prevalence.
Research finds that stable caregiver relationships in childhood may increase optimal heart health, while adversity and abuse can lead to poor cardiovascular health. Lower income as an adult may also introduce additional adversity, making the relationship between caregiver-child adversity difficult to see.
A quality improvement intervention linked high-risk prenatal patients with primary care, resulting in a significant increase in postpartum and primary care utilization. Despite challenges, FQHC participation improved patient outcomes, highlighting the need for greater resources to ensure sustainability.
A NTU Singapore study found that ageing alters brain cells' communication, leading to weakening connections and poorer memory in middle-aged mice. The research suggests strengthening these connections through memory training may delay age-related working memory decline.
Researchers found that participants who achieved diabetes remission through weight loss had a 40% lower rate of cardiovascular disease and 33% lower rate of chronic kidney disease. The study, led by Professor Edward Gregg, monitored over 5,000 patients for 12 years.
Researchers developed an AI-driven algorithm that accurately predicts death and complications after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The tool uses patient feedback to provide a patient-centered, individualized risk prediction score.
Research from University of South Australia shows professional firefighters have lower movement quality as they age, which could put them at greater risk of injury. Functional strength training can help maintain a fit and healthy workforce.
A recent study from Drexel University explored an art therapy intervention to address the health needs of overweight, postmenopausal women. The integrated approach showed significant improvements in psychosocial wellbeing, quality of life, and body image, with participants also experiencing decreases in BMI and blood pressure.
Researchers found that two common biomarkers, global longitudinal strain and N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, can identify asymptomatic childhood cancer survivors at elevated risk of declining heart muscle function. These biomarkers may lead to earlier treatment to prevent further heart damage.
A meta-analysis of 90 studies found that adolescents use nonprescription weight-loss products excessively, with girls being more affected. The study highlights the need for interventions to reduce this behavior and mitigate potential long-term health consequences.
A Washington State University study found that living near nature can reduce serious psychological distress and improve general health in older adults. Researchers analyzed data from over 42,000 people aged 65 and older, finding a strong association between access to green spaces and better mental and physical health outcomes.
Researchers found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood plasma were associated with better lung function and longer survival without needing a lung transplant. This was consistent regardless of smoking history or cardiovascular disease.
A study of 70 autistic youths in psychiatric hospitals found wearable biosensing and machine learning can identify impending aggressive behaviors. The findings suggest a potential for developing adaptive intervention systems to prevent aggression.
Researchers found that colon cancer screenings reduce cancer rates by about 0.5 percent, doubling previous estimates of a quarter of a percentage point. This effect is twice the impact of just being invited to screen, suggesting that actual screening rather than just the offer makes a difference.
A new study in The American Journal of Medicine highlights the correlation between social vulnerability and physical inactivity in the US, revealing geographic variance and disparities. Researchers stress the need for tailored health promotion campaigns and individual counseling approaches to address these disparities.
Research from the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that poor diet quality among adolescents is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, including obesity and related diseases. The study suggests that promoting nutrition knowledge is necessary to prevent these health risks.
A national food choice experiment found that labeling a meat-free and dairy-free food basket as 'vegan' or 'plant-based' leads to lower appeal, whereas labels like 'healthy' or 'sustainable' result in higher preference. This study suggests using these alternative labels can encourage healthier and more environmentally sustainable eatin...
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has developed new recommendations for managing fatigue in people with inflammatory rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. The guidelines emphasize the importance of monitoring fatigue and offering management options based on a shared decision between patients and healthcar...
A meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials found significant improvements in sleep efficiency and psycho-behavioral symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Light therapy also alleviated depression and reduced patient agitation and caregiver burden.
The UTHealth Houston School of Public Health offers a 12-month lifestyle program combining evidence-based nutrition education with culinary learning to support behavior change. Participants will attend in-person and virtual classes, including hands-on cooking lessons, physical activity guidance, and mindfulness education.
The Buck Institute has partnered with Hevolution Foundation to pioneer new scientific initiatives targeting aging. The partnership aims to accelerate discoveries toward therapeutic interventions specifically targeting the aging process, which is linked to age-related chronic diseases.
Researchers aim to determine optimal duration and intensity of behavioral interventions for childhood obesity among rural and minority children. The five-year study, funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, will enroll 900 parent-child pairs and compare different 'dosing' combinations of face-to-face intervention time.
A novel pilot study combines mindfulness and exposure therapy to reduce PTSD symptoms in cardiac arrest survivors, with 80% showing significant improvement. The treatment protocol also improved cardiovascular health behaviors, including sleep quality and physical activity.
Despite its cost-effective prevention for recurrent events, cardiac rehabilitation remains inaccessible to many due to lack of social support, particularly in poorer countries. Home-based rehabilitation and comprehensive lifelong healthy behavioral programs may help address these barriers.
A two-year study found that participants who received personalized coaching experienced a modest boost in cognitive testing, measuring a 74% improvement over the non-intervention group. Additionally, improvements were noted between the two groups in measurements of risk factors and quality of life.
Researchers found that practice interventions for improving integrated behavioral health (IBH) activities had a minimal impact on patient outcomes. However, practices that completed the intervention and those with higher IBH levels showed improved patient outcomes.
A new checklist, Consensus Reporting Items for Studies in Primary Care (CRISP), outlines key reporting items for primary care studies. The CRISP Checklist describes aspects of research, including teams, patients, and study implementation, to improve primary care research reporting worldwide.
Researchers found that using doctor- and patient-oriented materials improved conversations about erectile dysfunction (ED) among Asian men with diabetes. The study suggests that these materials can encourage treatment of ED, particularly in cultures where sex is viewed as taboo.
A recent study reveals that over one-quarter of older transgender adults have seriously contemplated ending their lives, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support and interventions. The study found that experiencing challenges in areas such as workplace issues and personal safety significantly increased the odds of contemplatin...