Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Risk factors determine need for colonoscopy

Researchers developed a risk index to identify people at higher risk of finding advanced precancerous growths in the upper colon. The study found that older age, being male, and having certain types and sizes of polyps in the lower colon were associated with an increased probability of finding these growths.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 15, 2003

Long-term follow-up of mortality in patients with community-acquired pneumonia

A large-scale study found that long-term mortality in community-acquired pneumonia patients is influenced by factors such as age, nutritional status, and preexisting illnesses. The severity of pneumonia at initial presentation surprisingly did not predict mortality, with lower-grade fever actually linked to higher long-term death rates.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateNov 21, 2003

Variants of BMP2 gene as genetic risk factors for osteoporosis

A study identified variants of the BMP2 gene as genetic risk factors for osteoporosis, approximately tripling the likelihood of developing the disease. The findings were replicated in an independent cohort, suggesting a strong association between the gene's variants and increased risk of osteoporotic fractures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 3, 2003

Study identifies risk factors for refractive surgery malpractice lawsuits and claims

A study published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology identified high patient volume as the greatest risk factor for increased chances of incurring malpractice claims or lawsuits. Other risk factors included prior claims or lawsuits, male surgeon gender, advertising, time spent with patients, and co-management with optometrists.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateOct 23, 2003

Smoking linked to osteoporosis in women

A study conducted at the University of Melbourne found that smoking is significantly linked to osteoporosis in women, particularly after menopause. Continuing high exposure to tobacco and greater sensitivity to smoking-induced bone loss are possible explanations for this link.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateSep 5, 2003

Parents' income, education influence teen smoking

A recent US study found that parents' income and education significantly influence their teenager's likelihood of smoking. Adolescents from lower-income families, with less-educated parents, face a higher risk of smoking. The study suggests that tailoring smoking cessation programs for adults with low incomes or educational levels coul...

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 18, 2003

Unemployment, access to guns among factors that turn domestic violence deadly

A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that a combination of factors, including unemployment, access to firearms, highly controlling behavior, and separation, increases the likelihood of female murder by their partner. Researchers identified key risk factors that can help identify women at high risk of homicide.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 30, 2003