Research on the US population and its health. Covers cancer-trial sponsorship, myopia control, statistical literacy, and substance-use trends.
Patients with cancer had disparate COVID-19 mortality rates during the winter Omicron wave compared to the general US population. The study suggests that immune-evasive SARS-CoV-2 variants pose a significant threat, requiring prioritized efforts to prevent transmission.
Researchers found that optimized statin therapy can significantly reduce mortality and cardiovascular events in US military veterans with coronary artery disease. Widespread use of ezetimibe alongside statins may lead to additional reductions in cardiovascular risk.
A large cohort study found that post-9/11 veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) experienced a more than 10-fold increase in suicide rates compared to the US adult population, highlighting a significant public health concern. The study also revealed that TBI exacerbates the risk of suicidal behavior among this vulnerable population.
A study of US families found that lower caregiver education led to financial strain and reduced adaptability, while younger children faced limited school support. Experiences varied little between urban and rural families.
Gender-affirming surgeries in the US increased nearly threefold from 2016 to 2019, with breast and chest procedures being the most common. The number of genital surgical procedures performed rose with increasing age, indicating a growing trend among older individuals seeking gender-affirming care.
A statistically significant increase in heat-related illnesses was found among patients at US Department of Veteran Affairs facilities between 2002 and 2019. Specific groups, such as those with existing health conditions and certain ethnic groups, were more vulnerable to heat-related illness.
Researchers used radiocarbon dating and time-series modeling to study the timing and causes of megafauna extinctions at Rancho La Brea Tar Pits. The team found that a sharp decline in population occurred between 13,070 to 12,900 years ago, coinciding with warming and drying climate change and increased fires sparked by humans.
Researchers found that US physicians propagate COVID-19 misinformation about vaccines, treatments, and masks on large social media platforms. A wide reach was observed among the physicians based on their number of followers.
Most U.S. infants requiring intensive care for RSV lower respiratory tract infections were young and healthy, born at term. RSV preventive measures targeting all infants are urgently needed to reduce severe illness burden.
Scientists have discovered that SARS-CoV-2 can infect cells using multiple entry points beyond ACE2, explaining its ability to jump between species. This finding highlights the need for continued monitoring of coronaviruses and their potential to cause future pandemics.
Researchers found significant increases in body mass index among US youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, with effects most pronounced in low-income youth. The study highlights how preexisting social inequalities were exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to greater weight gain among vulnerable populations.
The study provides a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and treating acetaminophen poisoning, emphasizing the importance of early detection and aggressive management. Key findings include the need for prompt assessment and treatment with activated charcoal and N-acetylcysteine, as well as the role of monitoring liver function tests.
The study of 18.4 million patients indicates a low annual probability of 5% or greater weight loss, but a higher likelihood of BMI reduction to the healthy weight category, especially among those with high initial BMIs.
Researchers analyzed data from 230,000 individuals with second primary cancers, revealing higher mortality rates among Black and Hispanic populations compared to whites. The study highlights the need for targeted research on survival disparities in multiple primary cancer survivors.
A population genetics team identified genetic relationship between 23andMe users and enslaved Africans in Catoctin Furnace, Maryland. The researchers consider ethics of sharing results with descendants and other relatives, highlighting importance of proper consent and minimizing harm.
A new study by MU researcher Roy Thompson found that immigrant nurses in long-term care facilities often have more 'human capital' than their American-born counterparts, including language skills and additional certifications. This diversity can improve patient health outcomes and create a more equitable workforce.
The USPSTF recommends a daily supplement containing 0.4 to 0.8 mg of folic acid for all persons planning to or who could become pregnant to prevent neural tube defects, which affect approximately 3,000 pregnancies annually. This recommendation reaffirms the 2017 statement and aims to reduce congenital malformations.
A recent study found a significantly higher rate of increase in deaths among female individuals due to alcohol-related causes. The findings underscore the importance of investigating specific factors contributing to this trend.
A study published in JAMA Network Open reveals nearly ubiquitous bilateral hearing loss among older US individuals, with increasing severity and low hearing aid use. The findings highlight the need for more precise measures of hearing loss to address this growing health concern.
A study found that taking more daily steps improves symptoms and physical limitations for people with heart failure, with little association seen beyond 5,000 steps. Participants who increased their step counts experienced improved symptom control and physical function.
The study used electronic health record data from over 200,000 children to describe patterns of pediatric allergies across the US, validating the 'allergic march' pattern. It also found that eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is more common among non-White patients than previously reported.
A comprehensive review of US-based Alzheimer's disease brain imaging studies found that all racial and ethnic minority groups are underrepresented. The gap is narrowing, but the research highlights the need for more diverse samples to capture details of participants' lived experience.
A study of 538,000 deaths in Florida and Ohio between March 2020 and December 2021 found significant excess mortality among Republican voters compared to Democratic voters. The disparity suggests differences in vaccination attitudes and uptake may have influenced pandemic severity and trajectory.
The study found a significant increase in maternal HCV infection rates during pregnancy from 16-fold higher in 1998 compared to 2018. This is associated with adverse maternal-infant outcomes such as preterm labor, poor fetal growth, or fetal distress.
A recent study found that major US cities with larger proportions of Black residents are more likely to be affected by mass shooting events. The research suggests that addressing factors associated with structural racism could help prevent such incidents and reduce gun violence.
A new study found that more than one million US deaths per year could be avoided if the US had mortality rates similar to its peer nations. Excess deaths among working-age adults are particularly stark, with nearly 50% dying before age 65 in 2020 and 2021.
A randomized clinical trial found that low-dose atropine eye drops did not slow myopia progression or axial elongation in US school-age children. The results suggest that atropine, 0.01%, eye drops are not effective for controlling myopia in this population.
A cohort study found that U.S. veterans with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease residing in historically redlined neighborhoods still experience higher prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and adverse cardiovascular events. Redlining's adverse association persists even decades after its discontinuation.
The American Heart Association policy statement outlines strategies to shift towards value-based healthcare and payment models, prioritizing equity, patient and clinician experience, and individual and population health. The recommendations include person-centered, equitable, coordinated care that improves outcomes and controls costs.
The study found a steady increase in diagnosed learning disability prevalence among US children and adolescents over two decades, with 8.83% of children ages 6-17 affected between 1997 and 2021. This chronic condition affects about 9 in 100 overall, highlighting its significant impact on the US population.
Opioid toxicity-related deaths in the US increased substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 1 in every 22 deaths attributable to unintentional opioid toxicity. This trend highlights the urgent need for support people at risk of substance-related harm, particularly men and younger adults.
Death rates due to unintentional poisonings and firearm homicides rose substantially in the US from 1999 to 2020, highlighting a pressing public health concern. The study's findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to address this alarming trend.
A new study found that maternal mortality rates have worsened from 1999 to 2019, with the highest rates seen in Black women. The study used data from 1999 to 2019 and found significant disparities in maternal mortality rates across states and racial/ethnic groups.
A study of US state-level maternal mortality from 1999 to 2019 found increased risk among American Indian, Alaska Native, and Black individuals. The study highlights persistent disparities in maternal health care, with limited impact on prevention efforts.
A recent study analyzing data from 63 foraging societies worldwide reveals that women hunt in at least 79 percent of these societies, targeting game of all sizes. Women's involvement in teaching hunting practices and employing diverse weapon choices also challenges the long-held perception of men as primary hunters.
Among US females ages 12-21, iron deficiency affected nearly 40%, while iron deficiency anemia occurred in approximately 6%. Menstruation was a significant risk factor for both conditions, with over one-quarter of premenarchal girls experiencing iron deficiency.
A new study using satellite data from over 7,000 global reservoirs found that total storage capacity has increased, but the filling rate is lower than anticipated. The analysis suggests that addressing future water demands cannot rely solely on constructing new reservoirs, highlighting the need for novel management strategies.
Significant reductions in nicotine dependence were found among U.S. adults with cigarette use from 2006 to 2019, particularly among those 50 years and older. Tobacco cessation strategies tailored to age and comorbidities are needed for this population.
US delivery-related hospital mortality decreased for all groups between 2008 and 2021, while severe maternal morbidity increased, particularly among older women and minority patients with comorbidities
Research from Cornell University estimates that wildfire smoke can cause between 4,000 and 9,000 premature deaths and cost between $36 to $82 billion per year in the United States. Metropolitan regions near fire sources are likely to experience a large health burden and economic loss.
A new study revealed significant racial and ethnic disparities in US alcohol-related deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic. American Indian and Alaska Native populations saw a more than doubling of alcohol-related deaths, while Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans experienced substantial increases as well.
The USPSTF recommends regular screening for depression in the adult population to address its significant impact on daily functioning. Major depressive disorder can lead to increased mortality if left untreated.
In 2021, 9.6 million Americans had diabetic retinopathy and 1.84 million had vision-threatening forms. The number of people living with diabetes-related eye disease has grown since the last prevalence estimate in 2004.
The study found that food allergies were highest among Asian, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic Black individuals compared to non-Hispanic white individuals. Socioeconomic factors and environmental exposures may contribute to the disparity in food allergy prevalence.
Four state policies associated with increased telehealth access for mental health care in U.S. facilities, but disparities found in counties with higher Black resident populations and Medicaid acceptance. The expansion has improved mental health care accessibility during the pandemic.
Only one in four US adolescent residential addiction treatment facilities offer buprenorphine and one in eight offer it for ongoing treatment. Nearly two-thirds of adult residential facilities provide this medication, highlighting a significant gap in care for adolescents.
A decision analytical model study found that sustained public health interventions can reduce opioid-related overdose deaths. Implementing medications for opioid use disorder and increasing naloxone supply were key factors in reducing death rates.
State palliative care laws are associated with an increased likelihood of dying at home or in hospice among decedents from cancer. Passage of these laws may be an effective policy intervention to increase the number of seriously ill patients who experience their death in such locations.
A study of US adults found that fewer than 1 in 4 use wearable devices to prevent or manage cardiovascular disease, with inconsistent daily use among those who do. This disparity may worsen health inequalities unless strategies are implemented to promote equitable adoption of these tools.
A new international study reconstructs the legacy of Chile's largest indigenous community, the Mapuche, through genetics and linguistics. The research reveals distinct Mapuche lineages originated locally and have remained in relative isolation, punctuated by episodes of contact with other South American populations.
The study found that only 28% of US youth-serving mental health facilities offered LGBTQ-specific services, highlighting the need for expansion of these services, particularly in underserved areas. Public mental health facilities were less likely to provide such services due to cost concerns.
A study by University of Missouri researchers found similarities in COVID-19 mortality rates between certain US states and Canadian provinces, highlighting the importance of localized public health strategies. The findings suggest that factors such as population density, age, and socioeconomic conditions may have contributed to these s...
A University of Houston study explores why Hispanic individuals experience higher levels of loneliness and its link to hazardous drinking in the US. The research aims to identify predictors of loneliness and provide insights into developing targeted interventions to improve health outcomes among Hispanic communities.
Metabolic and bariatric surgery use among US youth increased significantly from 2020 to 2021, rising by 50% compared to pre-pandemic years. Adults saw a decline in MBS rates during the same period, highlighting shifts in healthcare access and utilization.
An observational study of 329,000 Medicare admissions found that older persons receiving hospital care from allopathic (M.D.) or osteopathic (D.O.) physicians experience similar quality and cost of care. Researchers also highlight systemic health inequities faced by persons with sickle cell disease.
The study found a significant increase in mental health diagnoses among female youth, especially adolescents, during the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend was most pronounced for eating disorders, with vulnerable populations showing marked increases.
A survey study found that fewer than 1 in 10 vaccinated individuals received an incentive, with most reporting no change in their decision to get vaccinated. The study suggests that policy efforts to incentivize vaccination may be ineffective.
A new study found an initial decline in diabetes mellitus plus cardiovascular disease-related mortality, but it reversed from 2014 to 2019. The researchers emphasized the need for primary prevention of diabetes and early diagnosis to prevent cardiovascular complications and mortality.
The study found that racial and ethnic health disparities cost the U.S. economy $451 billion in 2018, with education-related health disparities reaching $978 billion. The economic burden of health inequities is significant, but could be reduced by addressing structural contributors like racism and socioeconomic inequalities.
The Black population in the US has experienced over 1.63 million excess deaths and 80 million excess years of life lost from 1999 to 2020. After initial progress, disparities between Black and White populations worsened in 2020, highlighting ongoing health inequities.