Research on what raises a person's risk of disease and injury. Covers cardiovascular and aneurysm risk, medication in pregnancy, youth behavior, and suicide risk.
A new study found that consuming candy and chocolate in moderation is not associated with adverse health effects. The study, which examined over 15,000 adults, showed that candy consumption was linked to lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.
Spanish researchers found that liver transplant recipients who quit smoking have a lower incidence of smoking-related malignancies, while active smoking increases the risk. Smoking cessation after liver transplantation reduces the incidence of malignancy, suggesting it may be a protective factor.
Research suggests that nearly half of atrial fibrillation cases can be avoided by maintaining a normal blood pressure and healthy body weight, without smoking. The study found that high blood pressure was the strongest predictor of atrial fibrillation, accounting for over one-fifth of all cases.
A new model suggests that severing social interactions may not be the best approach to prevent disease spread during influenza outbreaks. The researchers found that a moderate increase in the price of interpersonal contact can lower the peak prevalence of the disease while increasing overall societal utility.
Researchers found that including falls history with clinical risk factors and bone mineral density values significantly enhances the accuracy of fracture prediction models. The study showed a 6% improvement in accuracy for men, with positive predictive values of 21.5% and 29.8% for women.
A new study found that coronary artery calcium scanning helps patients make heart-healthy lifestyle changes and lower their heart disease risk factors. The scan also showed significant improvement in several risk factors, such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels, after four years.
A study published in Neurology has found that children with a specific gene variation are at higher risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. The research identifies the HLA-DRB1 allele as a key factor in pediatric-onset MS, which can provide insights into disease causes and potentially lead to earlier diagnoses and new therapies.
Increasing rates of drug-resistant TB pose a significant threat to global progress in controlling the disease. The growing burden of TB is also linked to other risk factors like smoking and diabetes, which increase the risk of contracting the disease by two- and three-fold, respectively.
The study found that dissolvable tobacco products contain mainly nicotine, which is linked to oral cancers and gum disease. The products also include flavoring ingredients, sweeteners, and binders that can increase the risk of tooth decay and liver damage.
A large-scale study of 34,670 women found that moderate coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of stroke. The study suggests that coffee may have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, including reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity.
A new thesis from Karolinska Institutet highlights the importance of parental involvement in preventing adolescent alcohol consumption. Adolescents who exhibit risky behavior at an early age are more likely to develop high consumption patterns and associated health problems. Parents can make a significant difference by strengthening th...
Research by University of East Anglia shows stroke survivors with irregular heartbeat are 2.4 times more likely to develop dementia than those without the heart condition. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke and dementia in patients with stroke.
Researchers identified a 'diabetes belt' of 644 counties in 15 southeastern states with high prevalence rates, linked to sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and non-modifiable factors. Community design changes can promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles to reduce diabetes risk.
A massive study has identified 13 new genes linked to coronary artery disease, with most operating through unknown mechanisms. The discovery opens up new avenues for therapies and highlights the complexities of heart disease.
Researchers discovered 13 novel genetic variants linked to coronary artery disease, including seven related to LDL cholesterol and hypertension. The findings shed light on previously unknown mechanisms increasing heart disease risk.
A study of 143 overweight adolescents found those with risk factors like insulin resistance and low HDL cholesterol have less bone mass than their peers. The study suggests that increasing vigorous physical activity can help improve bone mass and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Researchers found lower potassium levels associated with higher diabetes risk in African-Americans, who are twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Increasing potassium levels through diet or supplements could potentially prevent the most common form of diabetes.
A new predictive model identifies patients at high risk of dysphagia after head and neck cancer treatment, allowing for early intervention and improved quality of life. The study found that large tumours, swallowing problems, and tumour location are key risk factors for developing dysphagia.
Swedish scientist Laura Fratiglioni's research shows that active mental, physical, and social activities can preserve cognitive functions and lower the risk of developing dementia. Factors such as blood pressure, weight, and genetics also play a role in determining an individual's risk.
A new study reveals the risk of pulmonary embolism after outpatient knee arthroscopy is .028 percent, with identified risk factors including age, female gender, and cancer history. The study examined data from 374,033 patients undergoing 418,323 procedures between 1997 and 2006.
A new study has found that Native Hawaiians are at a higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke at a younger age compared to other ethnicities. The study, which analyzed data from 573 people hospitalized for intracerebral hemorrhage, also showed that more Native Hawaiians had diabetes, with 35% vs 21% in other racial groups.
Researchers found that drivers who engage in a secondary task, such as talking on the phone, are more likely to stay focused and avoid accidents. The study suggests that strategically introducing an additional task can improve driver attention and stability, particularly during monotonous driving.
Researchers found that automatic referrals and patient discussions significantly increased the rate of cardiac rehabilitation usage. A combined referral strategy showed an 8-fold increase in enrollment rates compared to usual care.
A study of 639 individuals aged 36-90 found a significant association between hearing loss and dementia. The risk of dementia increased among those with moderate or severe hearing loss, particularly in older adults, who experienced nearly one-third more risk due to hearing loss.
Research found obesity independently increases risk of fatal coronary heart disease, even after adjusting for other risk factors. The study tracked over 6,000 middle-aged men with high cholesterol and found a significant increase in mortality rates among obese individuals.
Two large studies on osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) published in the IADR/AADR Journal of Dental Research investigate risk factors and prevalence. The studies found that bisphosphonate use is strongly associated with ONJ, and patients with oral bisphosphonates are 15.5 times more likely to have ONJ.
Elevated levels of cardiac enzymes after CABG surgery linked to increased mortality risk, particularly among those with high biomarker levels. Higher CK-MB ratios were associated with greater death risk, with a ratio value of 4-5 predicting more than double the expected 30-day mortality.
A 28-year study found that poor work ability in midlife predicted decline in health and functioning, with similar risks among blue- and white-collar employees. The risk of death was higher among blue-collar workers.
A cognitive behavioral therapy program focusing on stress management appears to decrease the risk of recurrent heart attacks and cardiovascular events in patients with heart disease. The study found that the program was associated with a 41% lower rate of fatal and non-fatal heart events, as well as fewer recurrent heart attacks.
A study by Michigan State University suggests that a complex array of factors contribute to mass shootings, including peer victimization, lack of parental support, and ineffective mental health services. The research aims to reduce the issues that trigger violence and promote school connectedness among minority students.
A study by German Cancer Research Center found that hormone replacement therapy and a lack of physical activity significantly increase breast cancer risk. Behavioral changes in these areas could prevent nearly 30% of postmenopausal breast cancers.
A study of US counties found a positive correlation between altitude and suicide rate, controlling for known risk factors. Despite lower overall mortality rates at higher altitudes, the study suggests an association between elevation and increased suicide risk.
A Spanish study found alarmingly high cardiovascular risk factors in a random selection of 2,270 adults, with low education levels linked to increased risk. The researchers also discovered strong links between smoking, obesity, abdominal obesity, and high cholesterol levels.
A new study finds that a simple hemoglobin A1c test can identify individuals with pre-diabetes, allowing them to prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes through diet and exercise. By testing 60 million Americans at risk, healthcare costs can be reduced by up to half.
Researchers found that Porphyromonas gingivalis infection accelerates inflammation and atherosclerosis in the innominate artery of mice, characterized by vessel narrowing and perivascular inflammation. The study provides evidence for a link between periodontal disease and systemic cardiovascular diseases.
Scientists at UMass Chan Medical School discovered that paternal diet can reprogram lipid metabolizing genes in offspring, increasing the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The study suggests that epigenetic inheritance plays a significant role in complex diseases.
A US study suggests a link between sudden infant death syndrome and alcohol consumption by caretakers, particularly on New Year's Day. The research found that SIDS deaths rose by 33% on this day, with no similar spike observed during other holidays or weekends.
Researchers developed a clinical risk prediction rule using factors such as sex, race, and health history to assess the danger of carotid surgery. The CEA-8 rule found that one-fourth of asymptomatic patients were at higher risk than recommended national guidelines, highlighting the importance of weighing individual benefits and risks.
A new UCLA study reveals that mandatory genetic screening of newborns for rare diseases is creating unexpected upheaval for families whose infants test positive but show no immediate signs of the diseases. The study found that these families are often left in a state of uncertainty, with parents experiencing anxiety and trauma as they ...
A recent study has found that high blood pressure is more common among black women in the southeastern US compared to white men. The researchers analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study and discovered significant geographic, racial, and gender differences in hypertension risk.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that medical device registries enhance patient safety and quality of care by tracking implant effectiveness and patient risk factors. The study analyzed over 85,000 joint surgeries and identified key reasons for re-operations and outcomes for patients.
Researchers found reduced enzyme activity in young adult brains carrying the APOE4 gene, a common Alzheimer's risk factor. The study suggests mitochondrial changes contribute to disease risk, providing a potential target for prevention therapies.
A large cohort study found that women with depression were 29% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and those with diabetes had a 53% higher risk of developing depression. The association remained significant even after adjusting for lifestyle factors, suggesting a bidirectional relationship between the two conditions.
A large study found that high blood levels of alpha-carotene were associated with a lower risk of death from all causes. Higher alpha-carotene concentrations also appeared to be linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an independent predictor of death from all causes, doubling a veteran's risk of mortality. Researchers found that PTSD veterans had more severe coronary artery disease, with accelerated atherosclerosis being a key mechanism behind the excess mortality risk.
According to the American Heart Association, only 12% of men and 13% of women had all four health factors at ideal levels. Researchers found that death rates were 55% lower for participants with five to seven health factors at ideal compared to those with no health factors at ideal levels.
Researchers found that people taking anti-clotting medication often unaware of dangers of taking herbal supplements, posing a risk to patient safety. Overweight black teenagers are at high risk for cardiovascular disease due to non-traditional risk factors such as insulin resistance and family history of heart attack.
A new biomarker, cardiac troponin T (cTnT), has been found to be associated with the development of heart failure or cardiovascular death in older adults. Higher concentrations of cTnT were linked to a greater risk of both outcomes, independent of traditional risk factors.
A new study reveals that adopting a healthy lifestyle in young adulthood can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease in middle age. The five key behaviors include not smoking, low or no alcohol intake, weight control, physical activity, and a healthy diet. In contrast, genetics play a smaller role in determining cardiovascular h...
Researchers found that individuals with poor sleep quality had higher levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein, even after adjusting for known risk factors. Chronic lack of sleep may contribute to cardiovascular mortality, but the exact mechanism remains uncertain.
A study of over 4,000 participants found that having a first-degree relative with atrial fibrillation increases the risk of developing AF. The risk is approximately 40% higher than those without familial AF.
A new risk factor for developing breast cancer has been identified as a DNA methylation modification to the BRCA1 gene, which inactivates its protective function. This epimutation is present in the blood of some women with breast cancer and appears not to be inherited.
A new study reveals young offenders have a significantly higher rate of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) than expected in society. TBI was also linked to greater violence in offending and mental health problems. Researchers emphasize the need for brain injury assessment in offender management.
A recent survey of DTC genetic testing customers reveals their motivations, attitudes, and responses to testing. The study found that early adopters are generally satisfied with services, citing curiosity, risk assessment, and ancestry as top reasons for purchasing tests.
Lyme disease expert Dr. Richard Ostfeld assesses the ecological factors contributing to its expanding range, shifting focus from deer to white-footed mice as critical hosts for black-legged ticks. He recommends steps to prevent Lyme disease expansion and highlights links between land-use planning and biodiversity loss.
A recent study published in Acta Paediatrica found that childhood stroke is a serious condition with significant long-term effects. The study identified the combined effects of oral contraceptives and smoking as major risk factors for childhood stroke, affecting up to 85% of children who survived a stroke.
A study found that adding monounsaturated fats to a low-cholesterol diet increased HDL by 12.5% and lowered LDL levels by 35%. The Mediterranean diet is an effective approach to cholesterol control. Increasing dietary monounsaturated fat may enhance the cardioprotective effect of cholesterol-lowering diets.
Researchers developed a new animal model that uniquely identifies genes associated with increased resistance to disease in high-runners, which could help explore mechanisms underlying complex diseases and develop effective diagnostics and therapies.
Women with dense breasts and no lobular involution are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer. A study of 2666 women found that mammographic breast density and extent of lobular involution are independent risk factors for breast cancer.
A study by Henry Ford researchers identified five risk factors for late-stage head and neck cancer, including two genes, tumor grade, vascular invasion, and location of the tumor. The study found that race was not an independent predictor, contrary to previous research findings.