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Flora not flourishing in world's hotspots

Researchers at the University of Calgary found that tropical regions have higher risks of plant extinction than previously thought. The study analyzed worldwide databases and discovered that factors like latitude are more important in determining the number of threatened species than human activities.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 9, 2008

Genetic screening no better than traditional risk factors for predicting type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that genetic screening for type 2 diabetes is not significantly better than traditional risk factors such as weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. The study identified 18 gene variants associated with increased risk, but the value of genetic screening improved as more risk genes were discovered.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 19, 2008

Study to make public roads safer for farmers, drivers

A North Carolina State University study has identified five risk factors associated with farm vehicle crashes on public roads, including the use of non-English speaking drivers and young farm vehicle drivers. The study suggests that a comprehensive approach, including driver licensing, training, and monitoring, could reduce the risk of...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateNov 18, 2008

What happens in Vegas? Place as a risk factor for suicide

A recent study by Temple University Sociology Professor Matt Wray found that Las Vegas faces a significantly higher suicide rate than the rest of the country. Residents and visitors to the city are more likely to die by suicide, with some even experiencing an increased risk when traveling away from home.

SourceTemple University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateNov 11, 2008

Long-term secondary prevention program may help reduce cardiovascular risks after heart attack

A long-term secondary prevention program lasting up to three years has been shown to reduce the risk of a second non-fatal heart attack and other cardiovascular events. The program, which includes individualized risk factor and lifestyle management, resulted in a significant decrease in cardiovascular death and non-fatal heart attacks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 10, 2008

Increased rate of hemangiomas linked to rise in number of low birth weight infants in US

A study found that low birth weight is a significant risk factor for infantile hemangiomas, with a nine-fold increase for every 1.1-pound decrease in birth weight. The number of low birth weight infants has increased significantly in the US, contributing to an estimated 40% rise in infantile hemangioma incidence over the last 20 years.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateOct 20, 2008

Birth size is a marker of susceptibility to breast cancer later in life

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that birth size is a significant marker of susceptibility to breast cancer later in life. The research analyzed data from over 600,000 women and discovered that a 0.5 kg increase in birth weight was associated with a 7% higher risk of breast cancer. Birth length and head circumference were a...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 29, 2008

New gene variant identified for nondiabetic end stage renal disease in African-Americans

Researchers have identified a new gene variant linked to non-diabetic end-stage renal disease in African Americans, increasing their risk of kidney failure. The MYH9 gene variant is found more frequently among individuals with West African ancestry and may interact with environmental factors to cause the disease.

Sex hormones link to heart risk

A new study led by the University of Leicester found that men's sex hormones, particularly estradiol and estrone, are associated with increased cardiovascular risk factors such as high total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol. This suggests that natural endogenous estrogens may play a role in increasing heart disease risk in men.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateAug 31, 2008

Obsessive compulsive disorder linked to brain activity

Researchers at University of Cambridge discovered under-active brain regions associated with genetic risk for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to measure brain activity in patients with OCD and their family members, showing impaired function in areas controlling flexible behavior.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateJul 17, 2008

Perceived access to cigarettes predicts youth smoking

A new study found that kids who believe cigarettes are easily accessible and have friends who smoke are more likely to become regular smokers. The researchers used simple questions to identify high-risk children, highlighting the importance of discussing smoking risks with parents and healthcare professionals.

SourceBurness·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2008