Articles tagged with Internal Medicine
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A panel of experts based on rigorous systematic reviews found little to no health benefits for reducing red or processed meat consumption. Most adults can continue their current levels of red and processed meat intake without negative health effects.
This study examined changes in internal medicine subspecialty choices from 1991 to 2016, with women and men showing varying trends across nine subspecialties. The findings suggest shifting interests in areas like geriatric medicine and hematology and oncology, potentially driven by demographic changes.
A new study finds that drawing blood cultures after starting antimicrobial treatment can result in a significant loss of available clinical information. The study suggests that drawing blood cultures prior to treatment may be more effective in identifying the bacteria causing the infection and selecting the right antibiotic.
Researchers discovered that patients coming off chronic opioid prescriptions were three times more likely to die of an overdose in the years that followed. This alarming outcome has raised concerns about the policy recommendations aimed at reducing opioid prescribing, highlighting the need for systems to protect patients.
A new study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that coffee consumption is linked to a lower risk of developing symptomatic gallstones. Drinking more than six cups of coffee per day was associated with a 23% reduced risk, while one extra cup per day had a 3% lower risk.
A Regenstrief Institute researcher suggests redesigning EHR platforms to clearly access relevant data, reducing distractions and information overload. His 13 principles aim to combat inefficiencies and improve EHR functionality for better clinician-patient care.
A poor diet caused permanent vision loss in a 14-year-old patient, according to a case report published in Annals of Internal Medicine. Vitamin B12 deficiency and inadequate nutrient intake led to nutritional optic neuropathy, a rare condition that can cause irreversible blindness if left untreated.
A systematic review found moderate-strength evidence supporting face-to-face CBT in reducing suicidal ideation, as well as low-strength evidence suggesting DBT's effectiveness. Pharmaceutical treatments like ketamine and lithium showed promise in reducing suicidal ideation and suicide rates, respectively.
A new study found that people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who have a heart attack are less likely to receive evidence-based treatment. Despite this, researchers emphasize that MCI does not necessarily mean reduced benefit from treatment and that patients should still receive care when indicated.
A new study examines the effectiveness of extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs), also known as 'red flag' laws, in preventing mass shootings. The research analyzed 21 cases and found that ERPOs had prevented all threatened shootings, with no other homicides or suicides by persons subject to the orders.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has developed a rigorous process for disclosing interests and managing conflicts of interest to ensure transparency, proportionality, and consistency in clinical guideline development. The process applies to all individuals involved in ACP's clinical guidelines and guidance statements.
Patients who receive addiction medicine consultation in hospital are twice as likely to participate in treatment for substance use disorder after discharge. OHSU's innovative program has significantly increased treatment engagement, leading to better health outcomes.
A recent survey of over 24,000 internal medicine residents found that about 14% reported being bullied, with foreign-born trainees experiencing higher rates. The study also linked bullying to burnout, depression, and poor performance on exams.
A survey of internal medicine residents found that many reported being bullied during their training, which had a significant impact on their mental health and overall well-being. The study highlights the need for a safe and supportive learning environment in medical education.
The American College of Physicians, along with leading physician and public health organizations, calls for policies to reduce firearms-related injuries and deaths. Comprehensive criminal background checks, research into the causes of firearm violence, and improved access to mental health care are recommended.
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that prescribed opioids are associated with a nearly threefold increase in overdose rates for individuals without their own prescriptions. Family members on the same health insurance plan have access to these medications, posing a significant risk of accidental exposure or misuse.
A retrospective cohort study found that patients who received opioids for the first time while hospitalized had double the risk of continuing to receive opioids for months after discharge. Researchers reviewed electronic health records of 191,249 hospital admissions and found that almost 6% of patients receiving opioids during their ho...
A study by Regenstrief Institute researchers found that only 30% of patients reported having some form of advance directive, but only 16% had one on file in their electronic medical record. This lack of documentation can lead to complex situations for care providers and loved ones.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that five-star hospitals offer fewer services compared to non-five star hospitals. Five-star hospitals are less likely to have emergency departments, intensive care units, and other specialized services.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that women who were denied an abortion due to gestational age limit reported worse health 5 years later compared to those who underwent an abortion. The study also found similar physical health outcomes between women who had abortions in the first or second trimester and those who ...
The American College of Physicians has released a new paper outlining its methods for developing high-quality, evidence-based clinical policy papers. The methodology ensures that recommendations are based on the best available scientific evidence, considering clinical benefits, harms, costs, and patient values. ACP's approach includes ...
Researchers found that nearly half of callers with Medicaid coverage were denied appointments due to lack of available clinicians. However, wait times were generally less than two weeks, indicating opportunities to improve access to buprenorphine treatment.
The American College of Physicians has released a position paper outlining professional duties and principles for responding to physician impairment. The guidelines emphasize the importance of rehabilitation and reintegrating impaired physicians into medical practice while ensuring patient safety.
A new essay published in Annals of Internal Medicine argues that physicians often have to make difficult decisions when faced with extreme political pressures. The author shares a personal story about caring for a pregnant woman who was forced to carry a baby without a brain, highlighting the need for compassion over 'choice' in patien...
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that older women who took 4,400 steps per day had significantly lower mortality rates compared to those taking 2,700 steps per day. Risk of death continued to decrease with more steps taken, leveling off at around 7,500 steps per day.
A mathematical model found that physician burnout costs the US healthcare system approximately $4.6 billion per year, with potential economic value for reducing burnout through policy and organizational efforts. Accessing patient notes may also improve medication adherence and patient comfort.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that physicians in ambulatory surgery centers and physician offices were more likely to schedule different-day procedures, resulting in higher costs. The study suggests that financial incentives may be a contributing factor to this trend.
A new survey of over 200 internal medicine residents suggests that better training is needed to increase the prescribing of PrEP, a proven tool to prevent HIV transmission among high-risk individuals. The study's findings highlight the importance of improving residency training programs nationwide.
The American College of Physicians recommends strengthening the Affordable Care Act to address gaps in coverage and ensure universal access. ACP calls for bolstering the insurance market, expanding Medicaid, and increasing competition to provide quality care for all Americans.
A new RAND Corporation study finds that primary care services account for only 2.12% to 4.88% of total medical and prescription spending among Medicare beneficiaries. This estimate is lower than previous studies, and highlights the importance of investing in primary care for better outcomes and lower costs.
A new study finds that hospitals serving richer patient populations will face increased financial penalties under the revised system, while those with poorer patients will see reduced penalties. The changes aim to address concerns about the original program unfairly penalizing safety-net hospitals.
Researchers found that uninsured and Medicaid patients are more likely to be transferred from emergency departments, discharged without admission, or admitted to hospitals with limited critical care services. Financial incentives for hospitals may contribute to these disparities in access to acute hospital care.
Dr. Lauren Ferrante's research identifies promising markers of poor functional recovery in ICU survivors, which could help target older adults for interventions to improve function after ICU care. Her work aims to aid recovery, prevent disability, and reduce deaths following serious hospitalization.
A study of 9,048 individuals in Sweden found that respiratory, skin, and urogenital infections significantly increase the risk of developing Sjögren's syndrome. The findings support the hypothesis that environmental triggers play a crucial role in its development.
A new study from Duke University found that patients shed more weight when doctors give specific instructions, such as tailored behavioral goals and educational material, compared to generic advice. Patients who received empathetic care also lost more weight on average.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that international medical graduates care for Medicare patients with more complex medical needs than those cared for by domestic graduates. The report's findings have implications for immigration policies and access to primary care for the sickest Americans.
Research at UT Southwestern Medical Center found exercise reduces visceral fat more significantly than medication per pound of body weight lost. Exercise can melt visceral fat, lowering risk of heart disease and diabetes.
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that nearly half of people covered by expanded Medicaid felt their physical health improved, while more than a third reported improvements in mental or dental health. Enrollees who were employed also reported better job performance and had easier times looking for jobs.
A single workout can activate neurons influencing metabolism for up to two days, according to a mouse study from UT Southwestern Medical Center. The finding provides an avenue to explore potential treatments to improve glucose metabolism in diabetes patients.
One in four patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes have reported using less insulin than prescribed due to high costs. This underuse of insulin is often accompanied by poor glycemic control and difficulty affording other diabetes management equipment.
A new study found that only 21% of health surrogates actually know what an older adult would want in the event of a serious illness, despite 75% feeling confident in their knowledge. The researchers emphasize the need for improved advance care planning and communication between patients and their health surrogates.
The American College of Physicians has released a set of principles to guide patient partnership in healthcare, aiming to improve health outcomes, practice efficiency, and patient satisfaction. The principles emphasize the importance of patients and families being active partners in their care, contributing to system development and ed...
Genetic analysis of African ancestry found a correlation with increased risk factors for heart failure, including thicker left ventricles and higher ECG voltages. This study suggests that African ancestry may be associated with an increased risk of heart failure in young adults.
A survey of primary care clinicians found that most are willing to provide routine care for transgender patients, with a decrease in willingness among older clinicians. Factors such as personal exposure and transphobia levels influenced clinicians' willingness to provide Pap tests to transgender men.
A new computer tool has been developed to identify patients with chronic pulmonary embolism (PE) who can be safely treated at home. The tool uses a sensitive cardiac injury marker, troponin, to measure the severity of PE and predict patient outcomes.
Researchers developed a new marker that can accurately detect cardiac injury, reducing the need for costly and invasive stress tests. The test uses high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) assays to measure troponin concentrations lower than conventional assays.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has updated its policy recommendations for reducing gun-related injuries and death in the United States. The new guidelines build on existing policies, focusing on a public health approach to address this epidemic of gun violence.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered high levels of antiphospholipid antibodies in patients who suffered a heart attack without any autoimmune conditions. The study involved 800 patients and found that 11% had elevated IgG antibody levels, which is associated with blood clots.
A recent national survey of internal medicine doctors found that three-quarters reported financial ties to industry, with drug samples and food/beverage being the most common benefits. The study also revealed significant reductions in certain types of payments compared to a previous survey in 2009.
Alcohol consumption is common among patients with liver disease, associated with poor outcomes. The authors advocate for expanded treatment of alcohol use disorder in everyday clinical practice, including patients with advanced liver disease.
A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that nearly 25% of genetic test results were reclassified due to evolving scientific knowledge. This reclassification can significantly impact patients' understanding of their cancer risk and treatment options.
Residents in certain specialties, such as urology and neurology, were more likely to report burnout symptoms. High levels of anxiety during medical school were associated with burnout symptoms during residency across all specialties.
A recent study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that adhering to an anti-inflammatory diet was associated with lower risks of dying from any cause, cardiovascular causes, and cancer. Participants who closely followed the diet had an 18% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who followed it to a lesser degree.
Two research letters examine the impact of Medicaid work requirements on recipients, estimating the number at risk of losing coverage and calculating associated spending. State-level estimates also provide insight into those meeting proposed work requirements.
A study found that modest reductions in age-adjusted, county-level death rates could have swung key US states to Secretary Clinton. Counties with higher Republican votes had higher age-adjusted death rates and increased deaths of despair.
Experts recommend states guide doctors in certifying patients who cannot work due to illness, and connect Medicaid enrollees with job training and support services. States should also consider fluctuating work patterns when implementing reporting requirements.
A study found that patients are given little time to explain their concerns before being interrupted by doctors. Primary care doctors tend to interrupt less than specialists, who may skip the introductory step due to familiarity with the condition. The pressure to rush consultations affects patient-centered care.
A recent study found that only 2% of trials assessing the safety or efficacy of probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics adequately reported key safety components. The researchers concluded that the lack of safety data makes it challenging to accurately determine their safety profile and make informed decisions for patients.
A web-based health behavior change support system improved weight loss and waist circumference reduction for up to 2 years. HBCSS, combined with cognitive behavioral group therapy or as a standalone treatment, offers a personalized approach to obesity treatment.
A recent patient study found that more than half of hospital patients who had a urinary catheter experienced complications, with non-infectious problems being five times more common than UTIs. The study highlights the importance of avoiding indwelling catheters and removing them as soon as possible to prevent these issues.