Research on the US population and its health. Covers cancer-trial sponsorship, myopia control, statistical literacy, and substance-use trends.
A cohort study found an increased risk of serous retinal detachment, retinal vascular occlusion, and ischemic optic neuropathy among men taking phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. The study suggests a potential link between erectile dysfunction medication use and vision impairment.
The study found a significant increase in COVID-19 vaccinations after the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine received full FDA approval in August 2021. Researchers observed improved vaccination rates among US adults, highlighting the impact of full approval on vaccination uptake.
A study of 470,000 rural US veterans found that receiving a video-enabled tablet during the COVID-19 pandemic led to increased use of virtual mental health care services. This resulted in reduced emergency department visits and suicide-related behavior, highlighting the benefits of telehealth in rural areas.
A large US survey found that adults gained weight during the COVID-19 pandemic due to changes in behavior such as increased snacking and alcohol intake. The analysis of more than 3.5 million adults also showed a 3% increase in obesity prevalence, with significant changes in exercise participation, sleep duration, and cigarette smoking.
The March 2022 nTIDE Jobs Report shows employment-to-population ratios for working-age people with disabilities increasing from 33.1% in February to 34.1% in March, a historic high. Labor force participation rates also increased, with workers with disabilities remaining engaged in the labor market throughout the pandemic.
Researchers project COVID-19 deaths in US states after lifting nonpharmacologic interventions. The study found significant differences in mortality rates among states, highlighting the need for targeted health policies.
A new study finds that lung cancer screening is less common among those with poor health, with racial and ethnic disparities evident despite potential benefits. Non-Hispanic Black individuals are nearly half as likely to report lung cancer screening as non-Hispanic White individuals.
A new Brazilian database of whole-genome sequences brings diverse genetic information to international databases, shedding light on the genetics of aging and disease in Brazil's elderly population. The study identified over 2 million novel genetic variants, providing insights into the health and well-being of older adults.
A study finds that extreme heat is associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular mortality, particularly among men and non-Hispanic Black adults. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,100 counties in the US and found that each additional day of extreme heat was linked to an average of 600-700 additional deaths per year.
A study using national claims data found that receiving a single dose of the Janssen vaccine significantly reduced COVID-19-related hospitalizations. The vaccine's effectiveness remained consistent even during the peak of the Delta variant surge, highlighting its durability.
HPV vaccine approval led to increased screening and vaccination rates, resulting in a decrease in HPV-associated cancer cases. The study found significant declines in cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers during this period.
The Southeastern Consortium for Lung Cancer Health Equity aims to address disparities in lung cancer screening among racially and ethnically diverse populations. Researchers will develop more precise methods for identifying those at highest risk of lung cancer diagnoses.
The study found that nearly half of older adults in the US have poor diet quality, with overall diet quality worsening over the past two decades. Diet quality is a significant concern for this age group, as it can impact their health and well-being.
A modelling study published in The Lancet Public Health suggests that continuing to use face masks for at least two weeks after hitting COVID-19 vaccination targets is cost-effective and saves lives. The study found that maintaining mask use saves billions of dollars in societal and healthcare costs and greatly reduces hospitalisations...
A recent study analyzed data from 1998-2018 and found a significant association between tropical cyclone exposure and death rates from various causes at the county level. The researchers used this information to better understand the impact of these storms on mortality rates in different areas.
A new study finds that conversion therapy has significant economic costs and psychological harms for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning youths in the US. The therapy is also associated with increased rates of depression, substance abuse, and suicide attempts among this population.
A study examining online reviews on Yelp found that healthcare consumers frequently report experiencing and witnessing discrimination during hospital care. The analysis of 100 randomly selected US hospitals revealed a significant proportion of negative experiences due to racism, sexism, and homophobia.
A study evaluated COVID-19 vaccine mandates for US states, revealing differences between schools and childcare settings. The results show varying levels of vaccination requirements among states, impacting healthcare professionals.
A survey study found that material hardships such as food insecurity and rent problems increased significantly during the pandemic. The study identified top priorities for spending stimulus checks among U.S. adults, highlighting the need for targeted support to address these challenges.
The study analyzed changes in employment and average wages in the US healthcare workforce during the first and second years of COVID-19. It found that the pandemic led to a significant increase in telemedicine jobs, while other roles like nursing assistants and medical technicians experienced declining employment.
A study analyzing 185 million COVID-19 vaccine doses found no connection between vaccination and sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The results indicate that vaccination is not associated with the development of this condition.
Researchers found a significant association between extreme heat and increased mental health-related ED visits in the US. The study analyzed data from 2010 to 2019 and found that days of extreme heat were associated with higher rates of mental health-related emergency department visits.
Firearm deaths have overtaken car crashes as the leading cause of premature US trauma deaths, with firearm suicides highest in older white men and firearm homicides highest in young black men. Firearm-related deaths increased steadily over the past decade, accounting for 12.6 million years of potential life lost between 2009 and 2018.
Researchers found that 1% of US adults taking opioids are also prescribed benzodiazepines and other sedatives. This polypharmacy approach is linked to increased side effects and may pose dangers to vulnerable populations.
A survey study analyzed responses from the 2021 National Firearms Survey to examine firearm storage practices in US households with children. The findings suggest that many households do not store firearms safely, posing a significant risk of accidents and injuries.
A new analysis of focus groups reveals that historical trauma shapes many Black and Indigenous Americans' views about using public lands for leisure. Participants noted historical injustices and feeling unwelcome in nature-based spaces, yet continued to engage with nature despite these feelings.
A study examined the association between county-level prescription rates of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin and voting patterns in the 2020 US presidential election. The analysis found a statistically significant correlation between higher prescription rates and Republican vote shares.
A new study finds that COVID-19 vaccination is associated with statistically significant declines in multiple psychological distress factors. Vaccination was linked to reductions in perceived risks of infection, hospitalization, and death, as well as improvements in mental health and quality of life.
This study of 2.5 million military veterans found a significant association between traumatic brain injury and increased mortality rates compared to the general US population. The study highlights the long-term health risks faced by veterans who served after 9/11.
A study analyzed the association between vaccination rates and new COVID-19 infections in US counties from July to August 2021, finding a positive correlation between higher vaccination rates and lower new infection rates. The analysis used data from over 3,000 counties and shed light on the impact of vaccination on pandemic trends.
Researchers assessed the link between primary care physicians per capita and COVID-19 vaccination rates among U.S. counties, finding a positive correlation. The study suggests that areas with more primary care physicians tend to have higher vaccination rates, potentially due to increased access to healthcare services.
A US study analyzed opioid prescribing patterns before surgery, revealing that approximately 44% of patients received opioids as preoperative medication. The analysis spanned over a decade and examined the trend's impact on patient outcomes and potential risks.
A study found that approximately one-third of the US population lacks access to emergency departments with acute stroke capabilities and telestroke capacity. The research estimated these proportions to better understand healthcare disparities in stroke care.
Researchers examined factors associated with disease severity and outcomes in 167,000 US children infected with SARS-CoV-2. Children's age, sex, and underlying health conditions were linked to varying levels of disease severity.
Research suggests that e-cigarettes are less effective in helping people quit smoking compared to other methods, with no reduction in the risk of relapse among former smokers. E-cigarette users were found to have a lower success rate in quitting smoking than those using other aids.
A genome study found significant variation in human ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes based on geographic ancestry, particularly in the 28S rRNA segment. This discovery suggests that these variants may be important for understanding cancer development and functionally assessing their impact on ribosome functions.
A study published in Nature Communications found that racial and ethnic minorities in the US were up to three times more likely to be unsure or unwilling to get vaccinated compared to whites. Despite lower willingness, minority populations faced unequal access to vaccines in the US due to a fragmented distribution system.
A survey of 55,000 US adults found that melatonin supplement use rose substantially over nearly two decades. The study's findings suggest a shift in attitudes towards supplements and health, highlighting the growing demand for natural health products.
A recent study estimates that unintentional drug overdose deaths among US adolescents and young adults from 2015 to 2019 resulted in a substantial loss of years of life. The study found that this demographic group bears an disproportionate burden of these overdose-related fatalities.
A Yale study found that child masking in child care programs reduced closure rates by 13-14%. Child masking was associated with a lower risk of COVID-19-related closures, keeping children in safe learning environments and allowing parents to remain employed. Masking rates were higher for staff members than children.
A survey of 6,600 childcare professionals found a strong association between mask-wearing children aged 2+ and subsequent COVID-19-related program closures. The study suggests that masks may play a role in the spread of the virus.
Researchers found that Asian American individuals are at higher risk for skin cancer due to genetic predisposition and environmental factors. The study emphasizes the need for targeted screening among this population to prevent skin cancer deaths.
A survey study assessed psychological distress among U.S. adults during four different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, finding significant increases in symptoms during lockdowns and reopening phases. The study suggests that ongoing mental health support is essential to mitigate these effects.
A survey of 1,200 US adults reveals COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy decreased more rapidly among Black individuals than white individuals since December 2020. The study suggests a significant decrease in vaccine hesitancy among Black adults, but still higher compared to white adults.
The WV Clinical and Translational Science Institute is leading a national study on post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) among adults. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, aims to better understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 and develop effective treatments for this disabling complication.
A study analyzing 676 US health care systems found features associated with overuse of health care include having fewer primary care physicians and being investor owned. These factors were less likely to include a major teaching hospital, contributing to the overuse of healthcare within US health systems.
Researchers found that telemedicine usage increased among Black patients and women during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, disparities persisted, with older patients and those with lower education levels less likely to use video consultations. The study highlights the need for improved digital access and resources to bridge the gap.
A survey study analyzed changes in acupuncture insurance coverage in the US from 2010 to 2019, revealing a decline in coverage over the decade. The study found that insurance coverage for acupuncture decreased significantly during this period, with significant implications for access to alternative therapies.
A simulation model estimated a nearly half reduction in total hospitalizations and deaths following the US COVID-19 vaccination program. The study suggests a significant association between vaccination and improved health outcomes during the first six months of 2021.
A global study found that death rates for people with type 2 diabetes are declining in high-income countries, including Asia. The study showed a narrowing life expectancy gap between those with and without diabetes in many jurisdictions.
Adults from sexual minority groups are more likely to use alternative therapies, skip medication doses, and delay prescription refills to reduce medication costs. The findings highlight a significant disparity in health outcomes for LGBTQ+ patients and underscore the need for improved access to medications.
Researchers developed a fair-diverse allocation optimization framework to optimize the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, treatments, and testing supplies. The model aims to get limited resources to the most vulnerable subgroups while ensuring fairness and diversity, independent of demographic background.
Researchers found that mRNA vaccines were highly effective (86%) in preventing SARS-CoV-2-related deaths among vaccinated individuals, especially in the elderly population. However, vaccine effectiveness against infection was lower (69%) and decreased with increasing age and comorbidity burden.
A study of 1.1 million patients with type 2 diabetes found disparities in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists by racial and ethnic groups, as well as by sex and socioeconomic status. The findings highlight concerns about unequal access to effective diabetes care.
Patients with eye conditions from racial minority groups report feeling less respected by healthcare professionals compared to their non-Hispanic white counterparts. The study highlights the importance of addressing cultural disparities in healthcare settings.
Researchers are part of a five-year global study examining the behavioral and long-term health impacts of different regulatory approaches to e-cigarettes and other new nicotine products among youth and adults in seven countries. The study aims to inform US public policy based on evidence, maximizing population health.
A new analysis found that low-income households in New Orleans lost nearly 35% of their income after Hurricane Katrina, while high-income households in NYC lost only 5.8%. The study highlights the need for diversified income sources to mitigate economic harm from extreme weather events.
A recent study found that despite some progress, the US academic workforce in radiation and medical oncology remains underrepresented compared to the broader US cancer population. The study emphasizes the need for continued efforts to recruit and retain diverse faculty members.
A recent study, published in JAMA Network Open, investigated the relationship between food insecurity and allostatic overload in older adults. Researchers found that food insecurity is associated with increased allostatic overload, which can have negative effects on health outcomes.
A study found that US clinical trials of new drugs and biologics lack adequate representation of racial and ethnic populations. The research highlights the need for greater diversity in clinical trial participation to ensure the safety and efficacy of treatments for all patients.