Potential breast cancer prevention drug found to cause significant bone loss
A study found exemestane significantly worsens age-related decreases in bone mineral density by three times, even with adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
Disease Prevention
Articles tagged with Disease Prevention
Study establishes importance of tracking diseases associated with illegal wildlife trade
Researchers have identified retroviruses and herpesviruses in illegally imported wildlife products, highlighting the potential public health risk of the illegal wildlife trade. The study suggests that surveillance at ports can help prevent disease emergence.
Dried licorice root fights the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease
Researchers identified two substances in licorice root that kill major bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. Licoricidin and licorisoflavan A were found to be effective antibacterial substances, potentially treating or preventing oral infections.
Patient-centered care starts with education
A lack of understanding about the healthcare system leads to suboptimal treatment adherence and preventable outcomes. Education, including high school courses and community programs, is key to empowering patients and promoting optimal health.
Healthy mouth bacteria provide ideal conditions for gum disease
Healthy mouth bacteria provide ideal conditions for gum disease to develop, according to research from Queen Mary University of London. The study found that manipulating normal bacteria in the mouth can prevent periodontal disease, a condition affecting 54% of adults in the UK.
NIH study shows benefits, limits of therapy for rare inflammatory syndrome
The NIH study found that etanercept reduces symptom frequency and severity in TNF receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) patients. However, long-term treatment effects on preventing amyloidosis are uncertain.
Alzheimer's disease: The first prevention study of its kind
Researchers at Douglas Mental Health University Institute are launching the world's first prevention study on Alzheimer's disease. They will recruit 250 healthy adults aged 60 or over with a family history of the condition and observe their biomarkers for ten years to find preventative agents.
Global fight against non-communicable diseases should take lessons from HIV-AIDS
Experts urge collective global effort to stem cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and other major health challenges. A United Nations summit will draw on experiences from the HIV/AIDS pandemic, promoting research, prevention, and treatment efforts.
Vaccine discovery and translation of new vaccine technology
The new decade of vaccines brings hope for disease prevention through innovative technologies like glycoconjugate vaccines and reverse vaccinology. Despite challenges, vaccines have already led to significant reductions in morbidity and mortality due to diseases like smallpox, measles, and meningitis.
Key goals for building on 30 years of HIV/AIDS research
Researchers aim to efficiently identify more HIV-infected people through expanded voluntary testing programs. They also seek innovative approaches to curing HIV/AIDS by eradicating or suppressing the virus in infected individuals.
ENERCA clinical recommendations for sickle cell disease management and prevention in children
The ENERCA network has published a series of recommendations for disease management and prevention of complications in children with sickle cell disease. The guidelines recommend universal neonatal screening, prophylaxis with penicillin, and transcranial Doppler scanning to prevent infections and strokes.
Insight into parasite family planning could help target malaria
Researchers studied malaria parasite reproduction, finding damaging male and female forms can prevent disease transmission without killing them entirely.
Healthy gums may lead to healthy lungs
A new study suggests that periodontal disease may increase the risk for respiratory infections like COPD and pneumonia. Regular oral care can help prevent periodontal disease, which has been linked to other chronic inflammatory diseases.
Inverse benefits due to drug marketing undermine patient safety and public health
A recent study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that aggressively marketed drugs tend to offer less benefit and more harm to most patients. The 'inverse benefit law' highlights the need for physicians to critically evaluate commercial marketing and prioritize patient safety.
Tomatoes found to contain nutrient which prevents vascular diseases
Scientists in Japan have discovered a compound in tomatoes that enhances fatty acid oxidation and regulates hepatic lipid metabolism. The extract, 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid, has anti-dyslipidemic effects and can help prevent vascular diseases.
EULAR welcomes Council action to tackle chronic diseases
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) welcomes the EU Council's Conclusions on chronic diseases, which call for coordinated measures to address these conditions. EULAR highlights the importance of innovative approaches, patient-centred policies, and integrated healthcare systems to manage musculoskeletal diseases.
Death certificates confirm non-HIV-attributable diseases cause increase in US PLWHA deaths
The US PLWHA death rate decreased from 1996-2006, with a sharp drop in AIDS-defining illnesses, while non-HIV related diseases like heart disease and liver disease increased, according to CDC analysis.
By 2030, 7 in 10 deaths globally will be due to noncommunicable diseases; health systems must be strengthened to respond to this growing crisis
A growing burden of chronic disease threatens low-income and middle-income countries; weak national health systems hinder effective interventions. Strengthening health systems can improve responses to chronic diseases, benefiting other health services as well.
No quick fix for peripheral artery disease -- repeat hospitalizations
Patients with peripheral artery disease experience high rates of hospitalizations and associated costs, even after initial procedures to clear blockages in leg arteries. Preventive strategies, including healthy lifestyle adoption, may help arrest or stall the progression of the disease.
Chronic Disease Alliance receives European Health Award 2010
The Chronic Disease Alliance, a coalition of 10 European health organizations, has been recognized for its efforts to improve the prevention of chronic diseases at the European level. The alliance has produced a policy paper that identifies central causes of chronic diseases and furnishes action proposals on how to combat their spread.
Gum disease found to be significant public health concern
Research suggests that periodontal disease may affect more American adults than previously estimated, with a potential 50% increase in prevalence. The study highlights the importance of maintaining good oral health and regular dental check-ups to prevent gum disease.
Researchers investigate differences in quality of care delivered by US resident and staff physicians
Researchers analyzed 33,900 hospital-based outpatient visits to compare resident and staff physician performance. Resident physicians outperformed staff on four measures, including ACE inhibitor use for congestive heart failure and routine blood pressure screenings.
Cancer experts join forces to call for noncommunicable diseases to be included in the Millennium Development Goals
Global cancer leaders call for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to be included in the Millennium Development Goals to address the growing health issue. NCDs, responsible for 35 million deaths worldwide, face a lack of indicators and inadequate funding, with less than 2% of overseas development aid allocated to these diseases.
New rheumatoid arthritis criteria to stave off disabling disease for thousands of people
The new criteria redefine RA by classifying it based on the confirmed presence of synovitis in at least one joint, absence of alternative diagnoses, and a combined score from four domains. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent destructive joint damage with the help of synthetic and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
Surgery or stenting for carotid artery disease? Question remains
Researchers compared two treatments for preventing strokes due to carotid artery disease, but found no clear winner. While surgery may be beneficial for patients who have had a stroke or temporary stroke in the past 12 months, stenting offers similar benefits for asymptomatic patients.
Researchers at UH work to prevent neurological diseases
Researchers at UH are studying 'wireless connections' in the brain to prevent diseases like epilepsy and schizophrenia. They found that liver X receptor β and thyroid hormone receptor α play key roles in brain development and regulation.
Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans interpreted for practical use
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend daily physical activity to prevent chronic diseases, with specific guidelines for youth, adults, and older adults. The guidelines emphasize the importance of promoting physical activity in clinical and public health practice.
Accelerated radiotherapy regimen shows potential for treating head and neck cancer in resource-limited countries
A new accelerated radiotherapy regimen has been shown to improve disease-free survival and locoregional control without increasing late radiation side-effects in patients with head and neck cancer. The six-fraction per week schedule reduces treatment time while maintaining effective tumour control.
Small molecule with high impact
Researchers at HZI have discovered a new adjuvant, c-di-IMP, that enhances immune responses and provides long-lasting protection. The molecule has been shown to stimulate important effector mechanisms in mice, making it a promising candidate for improving existing vaccines.
How can policymakers cope with ambiguity?
A Northwestern University professor explores making public policy with limited information, recommending the elimination of inferior options and application of decision criteria to avoid poor outcomes in issues like global warming and vaccination policies.
U of Alberta researchers find mechanism that could prevent or treat deadly peroxisome diseases
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a universal mechanism that ensures peroxisomes transfer into cells after division, potentially leading to prevention or treatment of deadly disorders. The discovery has implications for screening carriers and could help babies born with peroxisome disorders survive longer.
Increased walking and cycling will benefit health and climate more than lower emission motor vehicles
A new study found that increased walking and cycling in cities like London and Delhi can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve public health more effectively than using lower-emission motor vehicles. The study suggests prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure to create safe urban environments for mass active travel.
NIAID awards five-year, $56 million contract to continue study of asthma in inner-city children
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has renewed a five-year, $56 million contract to study asthma in children living in lower-income, inner-city environments. The Inner-City Asthma Consortium (ICAC) will evaluate promising new therapies to reduce asthma severity and prevent disease.
Left side grafting is procedure of choice for adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation
Researchers found left side grafting has lower risk to donors compared to right lobe grafts, and recipients can achieve comparable survival rates with smaller graft sizes. The study suggests using left side grafts more frequently in adult-to-adult liver transplantation to reduce donor risk.
Use of microbicide-soaked vaginal and infant wipes does not prevent neonatal sepsis
Researchers found that chlorhexidine-soaked wipes did not reduce neonatal sepsis or vertical transmission of group B streptococcus. The study suggests that other interventions are needed to target child mortality and achieve the Millennium Development Goal of reducing childhood mortality.
Tracking down the human 'odorprint'
Researchers aim to decipher human odor chemistry for detection and classification of smells, with progress in identifying odors associated with diseases like diabetes and cancer. Scientists also explore detecting 'smell of deception' to screen and identify terrorists and criminals.
Diets bad for the teeth are also bad for the body
Research suggests that diets high in fermentable carbohydrates, such as sugar and starch, can lead to dental decay and contribute to chronic systemic diseases. A diet low in these carbohydrates may improve cardiovascular markers and reduce body fat. Dental problems can serve as an early warning sign for dietary imbalances.
Scientists identify host factors critical to dengue virus infection
Researchers have identified 116 host factors essential for successful dengue infection in fruit flies, with at least one also necessary for mosquito infection. The study opens doors to new ways to prevent or treat the disease, which infects millions globally each year.
New ASCO/AUA guideline recommends men and their doctors discuss using 5-ARIs to reduce prostate cancer risk
The new guideline encourages healthy men to talk to their doctors about using 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) to prevent prostate cancer, with a 25% relative risk reduction in most men. ASCO developed a Decision Aid Tool to help patients and families understand the risks and benefits of 5-ARIs.
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a wise investment
Chronic stress can lead to neglected oral hygiene habits, increasing the risk of periodontal disease. Regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help maintain healthy teeth and gums, reducing stress's negative impact on overall health and potentially lowering healthcare expenses.
Oral health: Prevention is key
The Lancet's Editorial emphasizes the importance of oral health prevention in reducing dental decay and its consequences. Daily use of fluoride is identified as a cost-effective approach to prevent tooth decay, especially in low- and middle-income countries where access to dentists is limited.
Researcher develops screening tool to identify patients with prediabetes
A clinical tool called TAG-IT has been developed to assess the risk of undetected hyperglycemia, impaired fasting glucose, and undiagnosed diabetes in patients. By identifying high-risk patients early, clinicians can implement preventative strategies to minimize progression to diabetes and related diseases.
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.
Duke team finds compounds that prevent nerve damage
Researchers have identified compounds that block the activity of a specific enzyme, preventing brain injury and improving survival in fruit flies with Huntington's disease. The findings could lead to better treatments for degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
International Red Cross adopts cholera prevention program in Kenya, developed by Hebrew U. students
The International Red Cross has adopted a cholera prevention program developed by Hebrew University students, which was effective in preventing and managing the disease in displaced persons camps. The program aims to increase safe drinking water sources, promote awareness, and improve surveillance and reporting of cholera cases.
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.
Potential therapy discovered for hypophosphatasia, a congenital form of rickets
Researchers at the Burnham Institute have demonstrated successful enzyme replacement therapy to prevent hypophosphatasia in mice, paving the way for future clinical trials. The treatment maintains healthy bone mineral density and preserves skeletal structures, offering new hope for patients with this genetic disorder.
Incidence of group B strep has decreased among newborns, but has increased among adults
The incidence of group B streptococcus has decreased among infants younger than 7 days, but increased among adults aged 15-64 years and those over 65, according to a recent study. Disease trends following the release of guidelines for prevention near birth have not yet been well studied.
Alzheimer's starts earlier for heavy drinkers, smokers
A study of 938 people with Alzheimer's disease found that heavy drinking reduced the age of onset by six to seven years, while heavy smoking reduced it by two and a half years. The combination of both risk factors led to an earlier onset of the disease.
Omega-3's no help for Crohn's sufferers
A large-scale study published in Journal of the American Medical Association finds that omega-3 fatty acids offer no benefit for preventing relapse in Crohn's disease. However, patients who took omega-3 supplements experienced significantly lower triglyceride levels, a risk factor for heart disease.
Leading pediatrician addresses the future of children's health
Dr. Gitlin emphasizes the need for research on childhood diseases and their potential prevention through genetics and nutrition. His work aims to identify key factors leading to diseases in infancy, which may affect them later in life.
Keeping sanitation in the international spotlight
A global sanitation fund has been launched, with 32 African countries pledging to spend at least 0.5% of their GDP on sanitation and hygiene. Improved water and sanitation have a tremendous positive impact on health, but sanitation has languished at the bottom of the international agenda for far too long.
Drug prevents dangerous tick diseases
A single injection of doxycycline hyclate has shown 100% effectiveness in preventing Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis in mice, offering a promising new treatment option. Researchers are planning to test different release kinetics and delivery methods to develop a slow-release patch for broader protection.
Study finds health professionals, public unprepared for genomic medicine
A new study reveals that health professionals and the public lack preparation to integrate genetic testing into practice. The study suggests that education and training are needed to address this gap, with potential solutions including increasing the size of the genetics specialty workforce.
Emerging infectious diseases on the rise: Next target 'hotspot' predicted
A recent study published in Nature reveals that zoonoses, disease originating in animals, are a major threat to emerging diseases. The team's analysis of 335 disease emergence incidents between 1940 and found that tropical regions with abundant wildlife species are likely next targets.
Active seniors curb health care costs
Researchers found that Group Health patients who regularly used their SilverSneakers benefit experienced significantly fewer inpatient admissions and lower total health care costs. Regular physical activity can help prevent falls, heart attacks, and diabetes complications.
Texas A&M carrot may help prevent osteoporsis
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center developed a special carrot to increase calcium absorption in humans. The study found a two-fold increase in calcium intake, which can help prevent diseases like osteoporosis.
Early treatment stops epilepsy in its tracks
Researchers at Yale University have shown that early treatment of epilepsy-prone rats with ethosuximide can suppress seizures and reduce their frequency even after treatment is stopped. This breakthrough could lead to preventing epilepsy in genetically susceptible people.
A call to action to prevent chronic diseases
Achieving a 2% annual reduction in mortality rates due to chronic diseases could prevent 36 million deaths by 2015. The authors urge key players, including governments, industries, and NGOs, to prioritize policies and programs to tackle chronic diseases, such as tobacco control, diet modification, and physical activity promotion.
Donors must play catch-up with the reality of chronic diseases
The Lancet report highlights the need for donors to invest in chronic disease prevention and treatment. The authors argue that evidence is not dichotomous, but rather a continuum that should trigger action under certain conditions. Policymakers must evaluate the level of evidence required before intervening.