Disease Prevention
Articles tagged with Disease Prevention
Rapid tests linked to better management of chronic diseases
The handbook that can prepare countries for the next pandemic
A new handbook produced jointly by Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg aims to improve decision-making and preparedness for future pandemics. The handbook provides practical guidance on how mathematical models can be used to inform decision-making, particularly in times of crisis.
Connected habitats favor more diverse, disease-preventing frog microbiomes
Researchers found that connected habitats enhance the ability of amphibian skin microbiome to defend against diseases by increasing beneficial bacteria presence. This study highlights a critical link between environmental disturbance, microbial defenses, and disease dynamics.
Midlife fitness linked to longer, healthier lives
A study found that higher midlife cardiorespiratory fitness is strongly associated with later onset of chronic disease, lower overall disease burden, and longer life expectancy. Adults with higher fitness levels developed fewer chronic diseases and spent more years free from serious illness.
Influenza frequently missed in winter deaths, new study finds
A new study found that influenza was detected in 11% of winter deaths, but only 17% had a confirmed diagnosis before death. The study highlights the gap between detection and official mortality records, suggesting influenza may play a larger role in winter mortality than routine surveillance captures.
Some ticks can survive from 1 to 3 weeks on home flooring
Researchers found that two species of ticks, Gulf Coast and lone star, can live at least one week and up to three weeks on hard-surface and carpeted floors. The study emphasizes the importance of taking protective measures to prevent tick bites.
Obesity control’s underestimated potential for cancer prevention
A recent study published in JAMA Oncology suggests that obesity control is a potentially effective strategy for cancer prevention. The research reveals that successful weight management can lead to a significant reduction in the risk of various cancers, making it an underutilized approach in cancer prevention.
Simple antiseptic can reduce newborn infections
A Cochrane review found that chlorhexidine application to umbilical cord stumps likely reduces infections by 29% and may lower mortality rates, particularly in LMICs. Umbilical cord care is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healthy healing.
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...
Stark divide: Americans more confident in career scientists at US health agencies than leaders
A new survey from the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds that Americans are more confident in career scientists at federal health agencies such as the CDC, NIH, and FDA, than in their leaders. The survey also reveals a significant gap in confidence between career scientists and agency leaders, with only 5% of Americans expressing
University of Ottawa Heart Institute, the University of Ottawa and McGill University launch ARCHIMEDES to advance health research in Canada
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute, McGill University, and the University of Ottawa have launched ARCHIMEDES, a national health data platform providing Canadian researchers with secure access to diverse health data. The platform enables collaboration, supports advanced analyses, including AI algorithms, and prioritizes public trust.
Cardiovascular events in women with prior cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion
A nationwide study found that adolescents and young adults with prior cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. The study suggests that women with prior HSIL should be more closely monitored for cardiovascular disease and prevention strategies should be imple...
Artificial intelligence predicts colorectal cancer risk in ulcerative colitis patients
A new study uses AI to predict which ulcerative colitis patients with low-grade dysplasia are at high risk of developing colorectal cancer. The model integrates risk factors from narrative clinical notes, enabling more accurate and timely surveillance and potentially reducing treatment delays.
Cost-effectiveness of semaglutide for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in US adults
A new study found semaglutide to be an effective treatment for preventing secondary cardiovascular disease in US adults. The medication meets conventional thresholds when used alone, but its cost-effectiveness is improved with combination therapy.
UCLA researchers develop mineral sunscreen that reduces white cast
Researchers at UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center developed a new zinc oxide formulation that significantly reduces the white, chalky cast associated with traditional mineral sunscreens. The tetrapod-shaped particles provide strong protection against UV radiation while staying evenly distributed in the sunscreen.
GLP-1 RAs and prior major adverse limb events in patients with diabetes
Treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) significantly lowers risks of limb events, cardiovascular events, all-cause mortality, and kidney disease progression compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in patients with diabetes. GLP-1 RAs are preferred for secondary prevention in this high-risk population.
Multiple maternal chronic conditions and risk of severe neonatal morbidity and mortality
Researchers found that an increasing number of preexisting maternal chronic conditions increases the risk of severe neonatal morbidity and mortality. Women with multiple chronic conditions may benefit from preconception counseling, earlier identification of complications, and enhanced newborn supports to optimize outcomes.
Five-year absolute risk–based and age-based breast cancer screening in the US
Population risk-based screening using 5-year invasive breast cancer risk is associated with similar or greater benefits than age-based screening, as well as reduced false-positive recalls. As personalized medicine advances, risk-based screening is poised to become a cornerstone of breast cancer prevention.
SGLT2 inhibitors vs GLP-1 receptor agonists for kidney outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes
A comparative effectiveness study found that SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a lower risk of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists. These findings suggest that SGLT2 inhibitor treatment may be an effective strategy for preventing kidney disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Simple method can enable early detection and prevention of chronic kidney disease
Researchers have developed a web-based tool to identify people at risk of developing chronic kidney disease through subtle abnormalities in kidney function. The study shows that individuals with an eGFR below the 25th percentile had a markedly higher risk of developing kidney failure.
Post–intensive care syndrome
Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) is a condition affecting ICU survivors, characterized by fatigue, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances. Treatment strategies focus on symptom management and prevention of complications.
Trends in county-level childhood vaccination exemptions in the US
This study reveals an increase in nonmedical childhood vaccination exemptions from 2010 to 2024, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, with wide regional disparities.
The oral-systemic relationship: lessons learned and the road ahead
Recent research aims to refine understanding of oral-systemic disease connections, exploring how oral health affects systemic risk and vice versa. Studies investigate mechanisms underlying oral and systemic disease links.
New FAU research strengthens evidence linking alcohol use to cancer
Research from Florida Atlantic University strengthens evidence that alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, particularly for breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. Higher intake and specific groups, such as African Americans and those with obesity or diabetes, are found to be more vulnerable to the risks.
Beat the bugs, enjoy the beats
A comprehensive review of 19 multi-day events found that nearly 70% of reported emergencies were infectious disease outbreaks, with influenza, measles, and meningococcal disease being the top causes. Foodborne illnesses accounted for over one in five incidents, often linked to poor food handling practices.
Rejuvenating the blood: A new pharmacological strategy targeting RhoA in haematopoietic stem cells
Researchers develop ex vivo treatment of blood stem cells with Rhosin, a RhoA inhibitor, to rejuvenate them and improve the production of healthy blood cells. This strategy targets the core of the ageing process, making blood stem cells more capable of regenerating and producing new healthy blood cells.
New research confirms HPV vaccination prevents cervical cancer
Two new Cochrane reviews show that HPV vaccines are effective in preventing cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes, especially when given to young people before they are exposed to the virus. Girls vaccinated before the age of 16 were found to be 80% less likely to develop cervical cancer.
Community program boosts diet, fitness, and disease prevention for rural Latino families
A University of California, Riverside-led study found a community-based health program improving lifestyle changes in low-income, rural Latinas. The program, ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva!, combined health education, cooking demos, and exercise, resulting in increased healthy habits, weight loss, and improved chronic disease management.
ACP encourages all adults to receive the 2025-2026 influenza vaccine
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has issued new influenza vaccine practice points that recommend standard-dose trivalent or quadrivalent vaccines for healthy adults aged 18-64, and high-dose trivalent or quadrivalent vaccines for those 65 years old. The guidelines aim to prevent seasonal epidemics caused by highly infectious fl...
Clinical trials affected by research grant terminations at the National Institutes of Health
Approximately 1 in 30 clinical trials were disrupted due to grant funding terminations, disproportionately affecting infectious disease and prevention studies. The study emphasizes the need for sustainable financial support to ensure trial operations and participant safety.
Early MMR vaccine adoption during the 2025 Texas measles outbreak
Rapid rise in early measles vaccination observed in February 2025, ahead of CDC guidelines. The study suggests clinician and parental concern drove increased vaccination rates.
Experts urge continued hepatitis B vaccine birth doses for newborns
Leading experts urge universal hepatitis B vaccination for all newborns in the US, citing a 95% decline in infant infections since 1991. The policy has prevented an estimated one million hospitalizations and 90,000 deaths.
Simultaneous imaging of intracellular DNA and RNA using harmless light
Researchers have created a method for simultaneous imaging of DNA and RNA in living cells using harmless infrared light, allowing for high-precision detection of all stages of cell death. This breakthrough enables the early detection of cellular damage that leads to aging or death.
Protecting infants against respiratory syncytial virus this winter — ECDC issues advice
In response to rising RSV cases, ECDC advises policymakers and public health authorities on effective ways to mitigate the impact of RSV disease in infants. Immunisation interventions, including long-acting monoclonal antibodies and maternal vaccines, can prevent severe illness and hospitalization.
Mathematicians model the menace of mosquitoes
Researchers have created a model that can handle complex mosquito behavior and its impact on human diseases. The study reveals surprising findings, such as it may be better to let a mosquito bite you in terms of overall transmission.
Durability of 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines against JN.1 subvariants
The 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated effective protection against severe disease and similar effectiveness against different subvariants. However, their effectiveness declined over time.
An AI-powered lifestyle intervention vs human coaching in the diabetes prevention program
A new study finds that an AI-powered lifestyle intervention is noninferior to human coaching in achieving a composite outcome in adults with prediabetes and overweight or obesity. The AI-led Diabetes Prevention Program was noninferior to the human-led program in terms of weight reduction, physical activity, and HbA1c levels.
It’s not just diet: where a child lives also raises type 2 diabetes risk
A recent study published in Pediatric Research highlights the impact of neighborhood environments on childhood type 2 diabetes risk. The research found associations between library presence, neighborhood walkability, and caregiver health, suggesting that social and environmental factors play a significant role in T2D development.
US funding cuts could result in nearly 9 million child tuberculosis cases, 1.5 million child deaths
A new study projects that US funding cuts will result in a catastrophic effect on pediatric TB, with children in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia experiencing a significant spike in preventable cases and deaths over the next decade. The loss of US bilateral health aid is projected to result in an additional 2.5 million pediatric T...
Human Organ Chip technology sets stage for pan-influenza A CRISPR RNA therapies
A new human lung alveolus chip model enables investigation of viral replication, inflammatory responses, and genetic off-target effects of a novel pan-influenza CRISPR therapy. The study achieved significant reductions in virus load and host inflammatory response after a single administration.
Drop in childhood vaccination coverage: Dutch study identifies trends driven by socioeconomic factors
A Dutch study found that vaccination coverage among children declined faster in households with lower income and those not attending daycare. The study, which analyzed over 2 million children, identified sociodemographic factors contributing to the decline, including parental education and migration background.
Artificially sweetened and sugary drinks are both associated with an increased risk of liver disease, study finds
A new study reveals that both sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and low- or non-sugar-sweetened beverages (LNSSBs) are significantly associated with a higher risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Replacing either beverage with water significantly reduces MASLD risk.
Livestock health: challenges, research and solutions
INRAE's work prioritizes agroecological practices to ensure animal health and sustainability in livestock farming. The PREZODE initiative aims to prevent future pandemics by bringing together over 170 partners, while research focuses on developing new tools for early disease diagnosis and prevention strategies.
Despite increase in U.S. cases, worry about West Nile virus remains low
Despite an increase in US cases, worry about West Nile virus remains low, with only 15% of respondents concerned about contracting the disease. The vast majority know the best defense is preventing mosquito bites and controlling mosquitoes around their homes.
Low-dose aspirin for individualized cancer prevention in older adults
A new study suggests that low-dose aspirin can prevent cancer in older adults based on individual characteristics. The analysis found varying treatment effects among participants, highlighting the need for personalized approaches to cancer prevention.
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.
Arts programs can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and other leading causes of deaths, large study finds
A large international study found that arts-based programs can make health messages more memorable and relevant to people's lives, improving health behaviors and cultural relevance of disease prevention programs. The study suggests that arts could be a vital part of the toolkit for promoting health and preventing disease.
Pre-visit questionnaire with EHR integration improves family history documentation and supports prevention and referrals in primary care
A pre-visit questionnaire with EHR integration significantly improved family history documentation, with 16.1% of patients having new entries within 30 days. This approach also supported personalized prevention and referrals, including screening recommendations and lifestyle advice.
Modeling the impact of MMR vaccination strategies on measles outbreaks in Texas
A new study models the impact of MMR vaccination strategies on measles outbreaks in Texas, highlighting the critical role of improving immunization rates. The findings suggest that increasing vaccine coverage can significantly reduce the risk of large-scale measles outbreaks.
Oral bacterial and fungal microbiome and subsequent risk for pancreatic cancer
A cohort study reveals oral bacteria and fungi as significant risk factors for pancreatic cancer development. The findings suggest that oral microbiota may serve as biomarkers to identify individuals at high risk of pancreatic cancer, potentially contributing to personalized prevention strategies.
Nicotinamide for skin cancer chemoprevention
A cohort study suggests nicotinamide reduces skin cancer risk, with greatest effect seen after initial skin cancer diagnosis, indicating potential chemopreventive properties of the vitamin B3 derivative
Groundbreaking AI aims to speed lifesaving therapies
A new open-source AI tool, ProRNA3D-single, has significantly increased accuracy in predicting and visualizing protein-RNA complex structures. This method can generate finely detailed images of molecules in 3D, enabling drug developers to design treatments by analyzing where viruses attach to human proteins.
Decoding wildlife movement to predict the next pandemic
Researchers develop a framework for biologging-based surveillance to detect disease outbreaks in wildlife, providing insights into the spread of zoonotic diseases like avian flu and COVID-19. The approach aims to revolutionize public health interventions by enabling early detection and proactive prevention.
Excess HIV infections and costs associated with reductions in HIV prevention services in the us
Even modest reductions in PrEP coverage result in thousands of avoidable HIV infections. The study estimates billions of dollars in increases in net health care costs due to these reductions.
Moderate-to-regular daily sleep patterns are associated with enhanced cognitive function
A new study published in Sleep Medicine found that daily sleep patterns have a significant impact on cognitive function. Researchers discovered that individuals with moderate-to-regular sleep patterns performed better in cognitive assessments than those with highly irregular or rigid sleep patterns.
Proportion of obesity-related conditions attributable to obesity and overweight in US youth
A recent study found that large portions of obesity-related conditions in US adolescents and young adults are attributable to obesity. Treating and preventing obesity may reduce these conditions and associated costs. The researchers emphasize the importance of addressing childhood obesity to prevent future health issues.
What traits matter when predicting disease emergence in new populations?
Researchers at Penn State have identified certain characteristics that can help predict whether a virus will persist in a new population. Infection prevalence and viral shedding were found to be significant predictors of long-term viral persistence. The study used a worm model system to examine disease transmission and emergence at a p...
Self-reported hearing aid use and risk of incident dementia
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that using hearing aids can lower the risk of developing dementia, particularly in individuals under age 70. This finding highlights the importance of early intervention for hearing loss and its potential role in preventing age-related cognitive decline.
Want to improve early detection of diabetes? Look in the same households as those with abnormal blood sugar
A study found that almost 50,000 adults with prediabetes and 30,000 with type 2 diabetes lived in the same households as index cases. The researchers analyzed electronic health records to identify household members with diabetes risk factors, including obesity and abnormal blood fats.