Articles tagged with Disease Prevention
The Wilderness Medical Society has developed clinical practice guidelines for reducing tick-borne illness, emphasizing low-risk interventions in resource-limited settings. Lyme disease accounts for nearly 70% of reported cases, with other TBIs like anaplasmosis and spotted fever rickettsiosis also on the rise.
Researchers found that in 2020, 93% of Guinea worms detected worldwide were in dogs in Chad. Dogs eating infected fish carry the parasite larvae, which means they maintain the life-cycle and humans can still catch the disease.
Dr. Mario Masellis' international team is receiving $320,198 in funding to examine the interplay between genetic, demographic, and cardiovascular factors on dementia risk. The project aims to improve management and prevention of dementia, ultimately reducing its impact worldwide.
Researchers at the University of Bath have optimised a peptide that prevents alpha-synuclein misfolding, a key feature of Parkinson's disease. The new molecule, 4654W(N6A), has shown significant promise in lab experiments and could lead to the development of a disease-modifying treatment.
Researchers have found that people with genetic risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have thinner retinas and photoreceptors, even if they haven't yet lost their sight. This early detection could lead to earlier treatment and lifestyle changes to prevent vision loss.
A new study links the composition of gut microbiome before infection to HIV susceptibility and progression. Men who contracted HIV in the early days of the pandemic had a greater relative abundance of pro-inflammatory vs. anti-inflammatory gut microbes, which contributed to their increased risk of developing AIDS.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a free online resource that speeds up data analysis of human genomes three times faster than current methods. This enables scientists to see how an individual's genome makes them susceptible to different diseases in different ways, ultimately reducing associated costs and increas...
A large-scale study found that regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of developing pneumonia and dying from it. The research, led by the University of Bristol, analyzed data from over 1 million participants and showed a strong association between exercise and reduced risk of pneumonia-related death.
A recent review reveals alarming increase in physician burnout among diagnostic radiologists, with causes including lack of control, social isolation and technological demands. Possible solutions include heightened engagement, dedicated reading room assistants and mindfulness techniques.
A new study by the Keck School of Medicine of USC finds that Medicaid expansion is associated with a significant reduction in mortality rates. The study, which tracked data from 2014-2018, found that expanding Medicaid coverage resulted in an estimated 3.8% decrease in adult deaths per year.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet and the University of Helsinki reveals how integrating digital tools, classical laboratory tests, and biomolecular measurements can enable individualized disease prevention. The researchers also found significant correlations between health risks and molecular factors associated with overweight, d...
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found a strong link between the apoB/apoA-1 ratio and cardiovascular disease. Individuals with higher ratios had a greater risk of severe cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction and stroke.
Researchers discover a unique subset of group 3 innate lymphoid cells that circulate in the bloodstream and infiltrate the brain, sparking inflammation in conditions like MS. Countering their activity could be a new therapeutic strategy for such conditions.
Researchers found that high avocado consumption led to reduced caloric energy intake, lower dairy and meat consumption, and improved fiber and nutrient intake. However, unexpected decreases in calcium and certain minerals were also observed.
Researchers from the University of Manchester have discovered a new way to manipulate key assembly line enzymes in bacteria using CRISPR-cas9 gene editing. This approach could lead to the production of improved antibiotics with potentially improved properties, addressing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
Research found that bats can adapt to diverse climates by finding similar roosting conditions, but those with high water loss are more heavily impacted by white-nose syndrome. This study highlights the importance of understanding bat hibernation patterns for conservation efforts.
A recent study estimates that COVID-19 vaccination prevented almost 470,000 deaths among people aged 60 years and older across Europe. The authors found that early implementation of vaccination was associated with the largest reduction in expected deaths.
A long-term study has revealed that drinking higher amounts of coffee may make you less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The study found an association between coffee and several important markers related to Alzheimer’s disease, including executive function and amyloid protein accumulation in the brain.
Mass treatment with Ivermectin has halted the spread of river blindness in two Nigerian states, Plateau and Nasarawa, marking a major milestone in disease elimination efforts. Separate studies also show the potential for Ivermectin to reduce West Nile Virus transmission by mixing it into bird feed.
Researchers developed EDS-HAT, an AI-powered system combining machine learning and whole genome sequencing to detect clusters of similar infections in real-time. The system identified 99 clusters of infections and prevented potential transmissions in 65.7% of cases, saving the hospital $692,500.
A new study tracked the spread of a genetic mutation that causes young-onset heart arrhythmia across continents over centuries. The research found that the mutation was passed down from Northern Europe to other parts of the world through migration, and identified a specific gene, KCNQ1, as the cause of the disease.
Low-risk gamblers in Massachusetts reported the majority of gambling harms, confirming the 'prevention paradox' phenomenon. The study suggests targeting public health efforts towards primary prevention to reduce community harm.
Researchers will identify and track SARS-CoV-2 variants using genomic sequence analyses. The project aims to understand the emergence and spread of the virus in West Virginia, helping public health officials prepare for future outbreaks.
Researchers are tracking the health of over 1,500 women who had COVID-19 during pregnancy and their children to study the long-term effects of the virus. They aim to understand why some people develop post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), also known as 'long COVID,' and others don't.
A new analysis found US states with water shutoff moratoria had significantly lower daily COVID-19 infection and death rates. Comprehensive moratoriums resulted in even greater reductions, suggesting universal access to water can help prevent public health crises.
A 51-country survey reveals that people who feel invincible to COVID-19 are less likely to get vaccinated and believe in the importance of individual actions. The study suggests that messaging emphasizing collective action is crucial in individualistic cultures.
Researchers have opened a novel study for a vaccine aimed at preventing triple-negative breast cancer, the most aggressive and lethal form of the disease. The phase I trial will determine the maximum tolerated dose of the vaccine in patients with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer.
A new vaccine has shown significant protection against Valley fever in dogs, offering hope for a potential human vaccine. The study found that two doses provided high levels of protection against the fungal disease.
A study found that only a third of public health policies had been fully implemented globally by 2020, with low-income countries and those with high corporate influence showing slow progress. The researchers suggest that corporate influence cancelled out the positive relationship between democracy and implementation, highlighting the n...
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to reduced influenza reporting, but vaccination and strengthened surveillance are critical for a possible resurgence. Research highlights the importance of flu vaccination and early testing for non-influenza respiratory viruses.
Researchers found that regular cycles of a fasting-mimicking diet in mice helped counteract the negative effects of a high-fat, high-calorie diet. The study suggests that this diet may have potential as 'medicine' to prevent obesity and heart disease.
Infection with measles virus triggers the activation of both RNA and DNA virus immune responses. The virus affects mitochondrial growth and division, causing their fusion and release of mitochondrial DNA into the cytoplasm. This leads to the activation of the cGAS immune response, which is also triggered by DNA viruses.
A new study found that women whose menstrual cycle length increased two years before menopause had better vascular health than those with stable cycles. Changes in cycle length may predict cardiovascular disease risk, allowing clinicians to recommend preventive strategies.
Researchers found that combining zinc oxide with small-molecule UV filter ingredients reduced UVA protection by 84.3-91.8% compared to non-mineral sunscreens. The study also showed toxic effects on zebra fish embryos when exposed to sunscreen mixtures containing zinc oxide.
A Tanzanian study found that laser treatment (SLT) successfully reduced eye pressure to normal levels in 61% of patients after one year, compared to 31% with daily eye drops. SLT may be an affordable alternative for glaucoma care in Africa.
Researchers found an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease is an oxidation-antioxidant imbalance in the blood. Oxidative markers increase up to five years before the onset of the disease, suggesting a potential avenue for prevention through antioxidant intake.
A new study reveals that childhood adversity is a major contributor to early and preventable causes of mortality and long-term physical and mental health issues. Childhood adversity was found to be associated with elevated risk for chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that the 2021 USPSTF guidelines will likely increase lung cancer screening of women, racial and ethnic minority groups, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status. This is expected to lead to an estimated 30% increase in lung cancer diagnoses compared to the 2013 recommendations.
Researchers found that nanosilver treatment can increase the risk of recurrent infections when used long-term due to pathogen adaptation. Long-term exposure allows bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa to evolve and resume normal growth upon discontinuation of treatment.
A study published by the American College of Cardiology found a significant inverse relationship between oral health and COVID-19 severity, as well as delayed recovery and increased inflammation in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Researchers recommend maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent or decrease COVID-19 disease severity.
A new study suggests that natural infection can produce highly potent and broadly neutralizing memory B cells, which may provide longer-term protection against severe disease. In contrast, vaccines primarily stimulate circulating antibodies that fade over time.
The ACHIEVE GREATER Center aims to reduce cardiometabolic health disparities by implementing a proactive approach using community health workers and pharmacists. The center will use collaborative care, PAL2, to address multiple domains of influence contributing to disparate health outcomes in the Black population.
Researchers will investigate hidden signs of brain damage in REM behavior disorder, aiming to identify biomarkers that predict impending neurological disease. The goal is to delay the onset or prevent dementia or Parkinsonism through clinical trials.
The ACC Middle East 2021 conference will showcase the latest evidence-based strategies for improving heart health in the Middle East. The event features presentations from renowned experts on the most impactful clinical trials and contemporary best practices in treating cardiovascular disease.
The European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) is hosting its 57th International Liver Congress (ILC) 2022 in London, where experts will present and share the latest science on liver diseases. The event aims to enhance awareness, prevention, treatment, and management of liver diseases globally.
Researchers have found a protein called CD47 on the surface of infected cells that may protect them from immune system recognition, resulting in more severe disease. High CD47 levels are associated with higher risk factors for severe COVID-19, including age and diabetes.
Researchers discovered a nanomaterial that boosts antibody production while minimizing inflammation, opening up new possibilities for vaccine development. The 'micelle' scaffolds can be used to generate laboratory-scale quantities of therapeutic antibodies against real-world pathogens.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed a long-term underinvestment in the US public health workforce, with staff losses and underfunding for public health education. Experts recommend increasing access to education for future public health professionals and investing in the existing workforce to address this critical shortage.
Researchers at UC San Diego develop precision-guided sterile insect technique (pgSIT) to control mosquito populations. The system uses CRISPR to alter genes linked to male fertility and female flight in Aedes aegypti, reducing disease transmission.
A Finnish study discovered a positive association between standing and improved insulin sensitivity in adults with increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The researchers found that increasing daily standing time can help prevent chronic diseases, even if physical activity recommendations are not met.
A study led by Ruixue Zhaoyang found that frequent and pleasant social interactions can boost cognitive performance in older adults. Participants who reported more social interactions had better cognitive performance on the same day and for days following.
The National Institute on Aging has expanded its network of cutting-edge Alzheimer's disease and related dementias centers, with two new centers in North Carolina and Texas. The Duke/University of North Carolina ADRC will focus on understanding age-related changes across the lifespan and identifying disparities in dementia among differ...
A new study found that non-Hispanic Black and Mexican American adults are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at an average age of 46-47 years old, four to seven years earlier than non-Hispanic white adults. Preventive measures such as nutrition counseling and physical-activity programs can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
Researchers used new approaches to track Lyme disease in Texas, finding an overlap between tick-bite locations and human cases. The study suggests that tick-bite location may serve as an indicator for human disease risk in nonendemic areas.
Yang Gao's lab has received a $1.9 million NIH grant to investigate the mechanisms of proteins that produce copies of genomic DNA, with potential implications for cancer treatment. The research aims to understand how DNA replication and repair processes can be targeted to develop new therapies.
A randomized trial found that a shorter course of rifapentine-isoniazid therapy resulted in significantly higher treatment completion rates compared to a longer daily course. The findings suggest that this regimens can be more effective for preventing tuberculosis disease in individuals with HIV, particularly in high-transmission areas.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.
Researchers investigated COVID-19 transmission dynamics among close contacts of index patients, finding timing of exposure impacts disease development. The study also found severity of the index case is associated with clinical presentation in close contacts who develop COVID-19.
The study highlights the need for vaccination in Africa, where 890 million people lack on-site water and 700 million lack in-home soap/washing facilities. Researchers emphasize that physical distancing and mask-wearing can reduce transmission by at least 80%.
Researchers have identified several drug contenders that can block or reduce SARS-CoV2 infection in cells, including lactoferrin and MEK-inhibitors. These findings suggest potential efficacy against COVID-19 variants, with ongoing clinical trials to examine their ability to reduce viral loads and inflammation.