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COVID-19 news fromAnnals of Internal Medicine

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that community and demographic factors, such as contact with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19-positive case outside the workplace and Black race, were stronger predictors of COVID-19 infection than occupational exposure among healthcare workers. The study also highlights th...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 29, 2021

New gene variant linked to stroke

Researchers identified a new gene variant, MAP3K6, associated with cerebral small vessel disease and stroke in an extended Swedish family. This discovery may lead to better understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind early stroke and potential prevention strategies.

SourceLund University·JournalNeurology Genetics·DateJan 28, 2021

Association of smoking with COVID-19 outcomes

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that smoking is an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes. The results suggest that cumulative exposure to cigarette smoke increases the risk of hospital admission and death from COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 25, 2021

NIH-funded study examines mono, chronic fatigue syndrome in college students

A longitudinal study of 4,501 college students found that those who developed chronic fatigue syndrome after infectious mononucleosis had more physical symptoms and immune irregularities at baseline. Researchers also discovered that emotional functioning and psychological states were not statistically different from those who recovered.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 22, 2021

Primary care physicians account for a minority of spending on low-value care

Research suggests that primary care physicians play a smaller role in high-value spending than previously thought, with most PCPs contributing less than 9% of low-value spending per patient. Genetic testing is also limited in predicting disease in healthy individuals, highlighting the need for caution in its use as a preventive tool.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 18, 2021

Suicide among individuals with autism spectrum disorder

A study examining national register data from Denmark found individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have higher rates of suicide attempts and completion compared to those without ASD. Potential risk factors for suicidal behavior in individuals with ASD were identified in the research.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 12, 2021

New online COVID-19 mortality risk calculator could help determine who should get vaccines first

The new risk calculator estimates mortality risk for individuals and communities, considering sociodemographic info and medical history. The tool will help public health authorities prioritize vaccination for high-risk groups, such as those with preexisting conditions or from vulnerable ethnic backgrounds.

More years of obesity means higher risk of disease, study finds

A new study found that individuals with longer durations of obesity are at a higher risk for cardiometabolic disease factors. The duration of obesity exposure between ages 10 and 40 years was associated with worse values for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycated hemoglobin (blood sugar) measurements.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 8, 2020

New review confirms disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Black, Hispanic populations

A systematic review published in Annals of Internal Medicine confirms health disparities in COVID-19 outcomes among Black and Hispanic populations, attributing the disparity to increased risk of exposure and transmission. The study highlights the need for targeted efforts to reduce exposure to the virus in vulnerable populations.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 3, 2020

More than half of American adults with advanced MS report mistreatment by caregivers

A study led by UC Riverside found that 55% of respondents with advanced MS experienced some form of mistreatment, including emotional abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, battering, and sexual assault. The researchers identified risk factors such as primary caregiving responsibilities and lower levels of social support.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·DateOct 27, 2020

Suicide prevention in COVID-19 era

A new study emphasizes the importance of suicide prevention in the COVID-19 era, highlighting both pandemic-specific and prepandemic risk factors. The authors stress the need for a multifaceted approach to address these risks, leveraging political will and federal investments to support vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateOct 16, 2020

The Lancet: Latest global disease estimates reveal perfect storm of rising chronic diseases and public health failures fuelling COVID-19 pandemic

The study provides new data on health in 204 countries and territories, revealing a perfect storm of rising chronic diseases and public health failures. Key findings include low life expectancy in the USA, high rates of cardiovascular deaths and obesity, and increasing mortality rates among adults aged 25-34 years.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 15, 2020