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PTSD common in ICU survivors

Research found that nearly one-quarter of ICU survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to a recent Johns Hopkins study. The study identified possible triggers for PTSD, including existing psychological problems and large amounts of sedation medication, and suggested using ICU diaries as a potential prevent...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateApr 20, 2015

Cognitive problems are common after cardiac arrest

A major international study from Lund University found that half of cardiac arrest patients experience cognitive problems like memory and attention issues. The researchers believe that these issues can be attributed to common risk factors among heart disease patients, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

SourceLund University·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 17, 2015

Sex crimes more common in certain families

A nationwide study in Sweden found that men convicted of sex crimes are more likely to have relatives who also commit similar offenses due to genetic factors. The study suggests a substantial family risk increase and may inform preventive treatment strategies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateApr 8, 2015

The Lancet: Healthy eating, exercise, and brain-training

A comprehensive programme providing healthy eating guidance, exercise, and brain training appears to slow down cognitive decline in older people at risk of dementia. The Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability found a 25% increase in mental function scores in the intervention group.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 11, 2015

Using snus doubles the risk of alcohol dependency

A Swedish study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that using snus increases the risk of developing alcohol dependency, with a doubled risk compared to non-users. The more snus used, the higher the risk, and this association holds true even after accounting for socio-economic factors.

SourceUmea University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 25, 2015

Improving health before pregnancy could be key to the prevention of childhood obesity

A new study suggests that a child's early environment, including maternal factors during pregnancy and breastfeeding duration, can predict their chance of becoming obese later in life. The research found that children with four or five identified risk factors were 3.99 times more likely to be overweight or obese at age four.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 1, 2015

That's using your head

A recent study published in Nature Communications found that the brain can regulate fat metabolism, potentially stopping the development of atherosclerosis and its associated risks. The researchers discovered that the brain uses the presence of fatty acids to trigger the liver to reduce its own lipid production.

Link found between pain during or after sexual intercourse and mode of delivery

A new study published in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found a link between pain during or after sexual intercourse and mode of delivery. Women who had an operative vaginal birth assisted by vacuum extraction, forceps, or caesarean section were at higher risk for persisting dyspareunia. Intimate partner a...

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateJan 21, 2015

More realistic physical activity targets needed, say experts

Research suggests that aiming for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week may be unrealistic for some adults, particularly older individuals. Increasing daily physical activity by even small amounts can lead to significant health benefits, as shown in studies of moderate to vigorous exercise.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateJan 21, 2015

Study reveals potential of ultrasound for detecting potential heart attacks and stroke before symptoms arise in both developed and developing countries

A portable ultrasound study found that nearly a quarter of participants had plaques in at least one artery, with added iliofemoral examination increasing identification by 5%. The technology showed promise for detecting subclinical atherosclerosis before symptoms arise, potentially preventing disease through preventive treatment.

SourceWorld Heart Federation·JournalGlobal Heart·DateJan 12, 2015