Articles tagged with Internal Medicine
UT Southwestern researchers found that drug-coated stents are less risky for heart bypass patients compared to bare-metal stents, with a 51% lower rate of re-narrowing and reduced need for repeat procedures.
A study found that job strain is associated with a higher risk of stroke in Japanese men, particularly those with high job demand and low control. The relationship may be mediated by chronic diseases such as obesity and high blood pressure.
A study of 153 healthy individuals found that those who slept less than seven hours per night were three times more likely to develop a respiratory illness after exposure to a cold virus. Sleep efficiency was also associated with developing a cold, with lower sleep efficiency increasing the risk by five and a half times.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine finds that colonoscopy significantly reduces deaths from colorectal cancer due to left-sided cancers. However, the risk reduction is negligible for right-sided cancer. The study suggests that physicians should advise patients of the limitations of colonoscopy.
A study of California adults found that interruptions in Medicaid coverage are associated with a higher rate of hospitalization for common health conditions. States require frequent reenrollment, leading to gaps in coverage and increased hospital spending.
Researchers found that hospitalist interventions can significantly reduce emergency room crowding, with a 6% decrease in ambulance diversion. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of physician communication through apology laws, which may improve doctor-patient relationships and increase patient satisfaction.
The American College of Physicians recommends that physicians adopt a routine screening policy for HIV, encouraging patients to get tested regardless of risk factors. Timely identification of undiagnosed cases can help prevent HIV transmission.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals women with mitral valve prolapse and severe leakage often receive less aggressive treatment than men, with a higher risk of mortality. The underestimation of cardiac enlargement in women may be the primary reason for these disparities, highlighting the need for more precise evaluation and treatment strategies.
A new study on NYU's primary care residency program reveals remarkably low burnout rates and high career satisfaction among its graduates. The study, published in Academic Medicine, found that 87% of graduates practice as primary care physicians, with many also teaching, researching, and advocating for health issues.
A new ACP clinical practice guideline states that second-generation antidepressants are equally effective in treating depression but have different adverse effects. The guideline recommends assessing patient status and modifying treatment if necessary, to maximize therapeutic response while minimizing side effects.
The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation has awarded UT Southwestern Medical Center a nearly $2 million grant to expand geriatric training in the medical school curriculum. The Southwestern Aging and Geriatrics Education (SAGE) program will improve physician trainees' knowledge, skills, and attitudes towards caring for elderly patients.
A new study found that stimulating growth hormone release in healthy older adults increased lean muscle mass, but not thigh muscle area. Another study revealed a decrease in cardiogenic shock rates among patients with acute coronary syndromes, possibly linked to improved angioplasty treatments
The University of Maryland School of Medicine has developed a web-based training and examination program for reading electrocardiograms (ECGs), aiming to increase expertise among general practitioners. The program, called ACCIS, includes interactive computer modules that teach and assess ECG interpretation competence.
Researchers from Boston Medical Center developed a Chief Resident Immersion Training (CRIT) program to educate generalist physician trainees about addiction. The program resulted in improved knowledge, skills, and clinical practices among participants.
A hospital-based smoking cessation program, along with cardiac rehabilitation referrals, increases quitting rates following a heart attack. Approximately 47% of patients who received these services quit smoking six months later.
Men who never smoke live longer and have better quality of life than heavy smokers, with an average of 10 years longer lifespan. Physical health deteriorates as the number of cigarettes smoked per day increases.
A new pig model for cystic fibrosis has been developed, closely mirroring the disease in human infants. The study's findings suggest that this model will aid in understanding the disease and may speed up the discovery of new treatments.
A study of 20 recorded interactions found that physicians rarely responded empathetically to concerns raised by patients with lung cancer. Opportunities for empathy were most often related to the impact of lung cancer on patients' morbidity and mortality expectations, but were frequently overlooked by physicians.
A Yale study finds that patients may receive poor or delayed care after sign-out, a transfer of patient responsibility from one doctor to another. The study identified 24 sign-out-related problems, affecting both patients and doctors, and highlights the need for improved communication and training in medical curriculum.
A survey of 515 patients found they were split almost 50/50 on the effectiveness of 'pay for performance for patients' schemes. Smokers and obese individuals thought paying for lifestyle changes was a good idea, citing lower healthcare costs and increased motivation.
The American College of Physicians released a new clinical practice guideline recommending drug treatment for men and women with osteoporosis or low bone density. In addition, massage therapy may have an immediate positive effect on pain and mood for advanced cancer patients, according to a study from the National Institutes of Health.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that massage therapy provided immediate benefits on pain and mood among patients with advanced cancer. The treatment improved symptoms greater than simple touch, offering a safe and effective way to provide immediate relief.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) issues a guideline for the drug treatment of osteoporosis in men and women, recommending bisphosphonates as a first-line therapy. The guideline emphasizes individualized treatment decisions based on risks and benefits.
The Association of Specialty Professors (ASP) has announced the seventh class of T. Franklin Williams Scholars, who will research and develop career plans focused on integrating geriatrics into internal medicine specialties. The 12 new scholars will join the previous 52 recipients to achieve the program's goal.
A study of fourth-year medical students found that those choosing internal medicine cited the intellectual challenge, continuity of care, and teaching opportunities as advantages. In contrast, factors like paperwork, breadth of knowledge, and lower income potential were seen as drawbacks.
A large study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that West Nile virus patients experience similar physical and mental function recoveries, regardless of neurological symptoms, with pre-existing health conditions affecting prognosis. Recovery times averaged around one year.
The USPSTF recommends against routine prostate cancer screening for men over 75 due to insufficient scientific evidence showing improved health outcomes. Men under 75 may benefit from screening with more evidence needed, according to the updated recommendations.
The USPSTF recommends against routine prostate cancer screening for men over 75 due to insufficient evidence. In contrast, the task force found that chronic illness is common among uninsured Americans, affecting an estimated 11.4 million adults with conditions like cardiovascular disease and hypertension.
A major review by leading experts highlights advances made in fighting doping in sport over the last 40 years. The authors emphasize the need for a strong commitment to research, smart sampling strategies, and trustworthy adjudication processes to combat doping.
A team of University of Iowa investigators are applying findings from heart research to the study of asthma, focusing on an enzyme known to play a role in heart failure. They aim to learn more about airway smooth muscle cells and their response to the enzyme CaM kinase II.
A University of Cincinnati study found that residents who spent more time in outpatient settings delivered a higher quality of care and had greater satisfaction in their duties. The new system, implemented to reduce conflict between inpatient and outpatient care, provided hands-on learning and enhanced patient satisfaction.
Young adults with prehypertension are more likely to develop coronary artery calcium and atherosclerosis later in life. Researchers also found that low-molecular-weight heparin may prevent blood clots after knee arthroscopy, particularly for those undergoing meniscectomy.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that young adults with prehypertension are more likely to develop atherosclerosis later in life. The study suggests that keeping blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg through lifestyle modifications may help prevent progression to hypertension and reduce the risk of heart disease.
The American College of Physicians emphasizes the benefits of tight glucose control remain uncertain for patients aged 60-80 with Type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, USPSTF strongly reaffirms screening recommendations for asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women to reduce urinary tract infections and low birthweight babies.
Researchers found that subtle neurological abnormalities in disability-free older adults can predict cognitive and functional declines. The study used standardized neurological exams to devise a scale measuring these abnormalities, providing evidence for the value of standard neurological exams in predicting future brain health.
Researchers found that misoprostol suppresses key immune responses and allows deadly infection to occur. The study has implications for understanding rare but life-threatening infections during pregnancy. More than a half-million women have taken the two-drug combination safely since its FDA approval in 2000.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that hearing impairment is common among adults with diabetes, affecting up to 54.1% of those with the condition. The study suggests that high blood sugar levels may damage the inner ear and nerves, leading to hearing loss.
A database review of 101,832 critically ill patients found that ICU patients managed by critical care specialists had higher mortality rates. In contrast, a review of 66 trials on salmeterol added to inhaled corticosteroids for asthma did not alter the risk for asthma-related hospitalizations or deaths.
Researchers found that adding noninvasive imaging to risk-assessment protocols increased the number of people classified as high risk for heart disease. This approach is proposed by the Screening for Heart Attack Prevention and Education task force, which aims to identify more patients who could benefit from cholesterol-lowering therapy.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that heart attack patients with acute kidney injury have a persistent risk of death after hospital discharge, with no significant decrease over time.
The American College of Physicians has released a new clinical practice guideline on screening for osteoporosis in men. Osteoporosis is expected to affect nearly 50% more men over the next 15 years due to increasing rates among older adults.
A study of 3,269 older men found that those taking loop diuretics had faster rates of hip bone mineral density decline compared to non-users. The risk was highest among continuous users, with a rate two-and-a-half times greater than non-users.
A recent court ruling supported JAMA and Archives of Internal Medicine in their opposition to Pfizer's subpoena for confidential information regarding COX-2 inhibitors. The subpoenas sought documents related to the decision-making process, but the court ruled that this information was irrelevant to the pending claims.
Researchers found that men with one or two hypertensive parents had higher average blood pressure and a greater risk of developing hypertension. Early-onset hypertension in both parents was associated with a significantly higher risk of developing hypertension by age 35.
A two-year study found that glucosamine sulfate was no better than placebo in controlling hip pain and progression of osteoarthritis. In contrast, Taiwan's universal health insurance program showed a small increase in life expectancy among the least healthy population, but with increased utilization and healthcare expenditures.
Researchers found that a delay in disabling conditions was crucial for centenarian survival, with male and female centenarians exhibiting different resilience levels. The study highlights the importance of understanding mechanisms for delaying disability to improve health outcomes and therapies.
Localized prostate cancer treatment options face uncertainty due to limited evidence. Gene expression tests for breast cancer hold promise but require further data on benefits and limitations. New HIV treatment guidelines suggest earlier initiation may increase life expectancy for younger patients. Pregnant women should not be screened...
Researchers propose steps toward a solution, including technology assessments by independent organizations, to identify beneficial and safe devices. This would increase awareness among health professionals of new technologies' potential promise and pitfalls.
Researchers found that frequent snoring is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic bronchitis, which involves inflammation of the lower airways. Individuals who snored six times or more per week were up to 68% more likely to develop bronchitis than those who never snored.
A new study found that daily pain is far more prevalent and severe than previously thought in adults with sickle cell disease. Over half of the patients reported having pain on most days, with nearly one-third experiencing pain nearly every day.
Recent studies in Annals of Internal Medicine reveal significant advancements in palliative care and insights into sickle cell disease's prevalence. Researchers also discovered a new strain of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcal Infections primarily affecting men who have sex with men, emphasizing the need for targeted prevention measu...
A study found that targeted digital mammography screening can be cost-effective for younger women with dense breasts, while conventional film mammography may be more effective for older women. Additionally, labeling epinephrine as a dose or ratio affected dosing errors among doctors.
The Center of Research Translation will investigate systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) through a four-group approach, focusing on B-cells, disease progression, and gene contributions. This project aims to translate basic research findings in mice to human SLE, improving treatment options for patients.
A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers suggests that colon cancer screenings may bring little benefit and pose harm to certain patients. The 'payoff time' method estimates the minimum time required for screening benefits to outweigh harms, revealing a significant gap in current guidelines.
The American College of Physicians has issued new clinical guidelines that recommend against routine screening for carotid artery stenosis. Meanwhile, the use of vitamin D as a standard treatment for chronic kidney disease remains unchanged despite concerns over its effectiveness. Additionally, experts have called for revisions to orga...
Two studies found that consuming a Mediterranean diet and engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity were associated with reduced mortality rates over five years. The Mediterranean diet was linked to a lower risk of death from any cause, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
A UC Davis study found that physician styles, practice volumes, and HMO affiliations significantly influence the length of patient visits. Patient satisfaction is a crucial aspect of care, and doctors working in busy practices or within HMOs often risk shortening visit lengths.
The American College of Physicians emphasizes the need for a more efficient and equitable healthcare system. Internists advocate for a focus on patient-centered care and recommend various strategies to achieve this goal. One such approach is implementing pay-for-performance programs that prioritize patient well-being over profit motives.
The American College of Physicians emphasizes the need to balance performance incentives with patient-centered care. Pay-for-performance programs may neglect complex patient needs, particularly for elderly patients with multiple chronic conditions. ACP advocates for a more nuanced approach that prioritizes patient welfare and preferences.
The AMPATH program, a comprehensive approach to HIV/AIDS care, has made an ongoing difference in large numbers of individuals and communities. By addressing medical care, nutritional sufficiency, and economic security, AMPATH has improved the lives of over 52,000 HIV-positive people in western Kenya.