Research on the US population and its health. Covers cancer-trial sponsorship, myopia control, statistical literacy, and substance-use trends.
A special issue of Journal of Public Health Management and Practice presents 15 articles on urban public health leaders' efforts to design new approaches to make cities healthier places to live. The strategies include comprehensive plans, health promotion, injury prevention, and collaboration with community players.
A study by University of California, Berkeley researchers found that greater income inequality is linked to more deaths among African Americans, with each unit increase resulting in an additional 27-37 deaths. In contrast, white Americans experienced fewer deaths, suggesting a protective effect for high-income whites.
A study by Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine researcher Anita Rao found that homeless, mentally ill women in India suffer from a vicious cycle of homelessness and mental illness relapse. The study highlights the need for a balance between reintegrating women with their families and achieving psychiatric remission.
A pathology specialist, Dr. Glenn Palomaki, contributes to the debate on breast cancer gene screening, citing concerns about population characteristics and feasibility. He suggests pilot trials for high-risk populations like Ashkenazi Jewish women before considering widespread screening.
A new survey of 11 countries found that Americans with Medicare have quicker access to specialist care than many other nations. However, the US population is also reported to be sicker compared to older adults in these countries.
A study found that 55% of the US population is not eligible to donate a kidney due to preventable health conditions such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. The majority of individuals with lower incomes are less likely to donate due to financial difficulties and immigration status.
A study found that patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis who attain SVR have survival rates comparable to those of the general population. However, patients without SVR experience reduced overall survival.
The number of Alzheimer's patients is expected to more than double in 40 years, while annual per-person costs will nearly quintuple from $71,000 in 2010. Delaying onset can reduce the prevalence and costs of the disease.
The UofL Trover Campus has received a national award for its innovative programs to address the shortage of physicians in rural areas. The campus offers training, mentorship, and clinical opportunities to medical students from underserved regions.
A five-year national initiative has shown promising results in reducing diabetes health disparities among African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans. The Alliance model improves chronic disease management by strengthening care coordination, patient self-management, and community engagement.
A study by an international team has shown that anonymous mobile phone call record data can be as accurate as traditional census-based maps. The findings have significant implications for infrastructure and emergency planners, particularly in low-income countries where recent population density information is often scarce.
Genomic analysis of Rapanui people reveals significant contact with Native American populations between AD 1300 and AD 1500, suggesting a pre-European trans-Pacific route. The findings challenge traditional textbook versions of human colonization events.
A genetic variant once aiding Arctic survival now linked to increased risk of hypoglycemia in modern populations. Researchers analyzed genomes from Northern Siberians, Europeans, and East Asians, finding the CPT1A gene variant was prevalent in Northern Siberians but absent in other populations.
Researchers documented the care and release of over 840 and 480 hand-reared penguin chicks, with 91% and 73% released into the wild. Post-release survival rates were similar to naturally-reared birds, supporting the use of hand-rearing as a conservation tool.
A new study using LSU Health New Orleans data found Acadian parishes in Louisiana have the highest colorectal cancer rates among nation's founder populations. The Cajun population, with limited genetic variation, may be linked to the high risk of disease.
A new study defines the epidemiology of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), identifying Asian descent patients as at-risk groups. Patients from this population are 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with GIST than others, highlighting a higher incidence rate and survival disparity.
A new theorem provides a fundamental approach to estimate the age structure of any population, from fruit flies to humans. This discovery can be applied to predict rates of infectious diseases and anticipate healthcare needs. By understanding age distribution, researchers can better comprehend risks and make informed decisions.
A new article published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements explores a potential cost-benefit analysis tool that shows daily use of certain dietary supplements, specifically omega-3 fatty acid or B vitamin supplements, can result in reduced odds of experiencing costly medical events. According to the study, high-risk adults over 55 w...
The Global AgeWatch Index highlights disparities in the wellbeing of over-60s worldwide, with Norway and Sweden leading the top five. Many countries, particularly in low-income regions, face challenges in providing adequate support for their aging populations.
The Gerontological Society of America and New America Media have selected 19 journalists to cover aging issues, including elder abuse, financial security, and mental health. The fellows will convene during the GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting and develop major aging-focused stories or series.
A Michigan State University study finds that annual incidence rates of alcohol use disorders vary significantly among different Hispanic subgroups, including Mexican-Americans, Puerto Ricans, and Cuban-Americans. The research highlights the importance of developing culturally specific preventive measures to address these disparities.
A new study finds that population aging can have positive impacts on society, including increased productivity due to higher education levels, reduced energy consumption, and improved health outcomes. The study suggests that these benefits may outweigh the challenges posed by demographic change.
The prevalence of diagnosed diabetes in the US population has plateaued for adults between 2008 and 2012, with a slight decrease in incidence. However, certain subgroups continue to experience an increase in diabetes rates, exacerbating existing racial and socioeconomic disparities.
Researchers found that modern-day Europeans have ancestry from three previously unrecognized groups: hunter-gatherers, early farmers, and a newly identified group of ancient north Eurasians. This discovery shifts scientists' ideas on human migration and interaction across the globe thousands of years ago.
Research found clownfish larvae disperse across 400km ocean to find new homes, adapting to environmental changes. The study tracked fish migrations between two Omani coral reef populations, revealing their connectivity.
A retrospective study found that 62% of veterans reported getting sunburned while deployed, and 29% noticed changes in their moles, highlighting a potential deficiency in sun protection among military personnel. The study suggests room for improvement in skin cancer prevention and early detection in the military population.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati developed a large-scale mapping technique to track demographic data, including gender, race, and economic diversity. The map reveals patterns of racial diversity across the US, with areas reflecting population density and urbanization.
A new study by RAND Corporation reveals that lesbian, gay and bisexual women and men in England are more likely to suffer from poor health than the general population. They also experience unfavorable healthcare experiences, including negative interactions with primary care physicians and nurses.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies found that airline pilots and cabin crews have a higher incidence of melanoma, with a combined standardized incidence ratio of 2.21 for any flight-based occupation. This increased risk is attributed to exposure to UV radiation during flights.
A recent Perspective piece in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that the US may no longer need a separate, expensive VA healthcare system for its rapidly shrinking veteran population. The authors propose transitioning out of the hospital business while continuing to provide specialized services like mental health and rehabil...
A study analyzed data from a cardiovascular registry and found that clinical trial participants had lower risk profiles and more favorable prognoses compared to non-participants. The researchers noted that efforts to improve trial participation are needed to enhance the generalizability of results.
Research found a strong association between low birth weight and type 2 diabetes in African American women, with those born very low weight facing a 40% increased risk. The study's findings shed light on the long-term health effects of low birth weight in this population.
A new study projects a continued decline in US edentulism prevalence through 2050, with high-income households experiencing the steepest reduction. However, tooth loss remains disproportionately prevalent among low-income populations, highlighting a need for targeted public health measures to address this issue.
Researchers found that older Mexican-American men are less likely to experience problem drinking when living in neighborhoods predominantly inhabited by other Mexican-Americans. This is attributed to factors such as inter-household family networks, residential stability, and shared norms regarding alcohol abuse. The study also discover...
A major study estimates that nearly half of the US adult population will develop type 2 diabetes by age 20, with Hispanic men and non-Hispanic black women facing the highest risk. The study found a significant increase in lifetime risk of diabetes over 26 years, driven by rising rates and longer life expectancy.
A University of Cincinnati experiment using the Enactive Torch found that visually impaired individuals can make accurate judgments about their ability to pass through narrow passages using only touch. The device emits vibrations when detecting objects, allowing users to navigate with greater ease.
A targeted outreach effort increased consent rates for organ donation by 27% among Hispanic Americans, compared to a 17% increase in the non-Hispanic population. The intervention resulted in over 25,000 contacts and led to a significant increase in organ donations from this demographic.
A new study found that exposing White participants to higher racial disparities in incarceration rates increased fear of crime and support for punitive policies. The researchers suggest that awareness of extreme racial disparities may actually decrease efforts to address inequality.
US study finds that prison smoking bans are associated with a substantial fall in deaths from smoking-related causes, such as heart disease and cancer. The study found that prisons with long-term bans saw a 9-11% reduction in smoking-related deaths, with longer-lasting bans leading to greater reductions.
A systematic review of qualitative studies on eating behavior in Latina women reveals disparities and gaps in the existing literature. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to recognize cultural differences in food patterns and design effective behavior change programs.
A study tracking bacterial populations over a year found daily fluctuations in response to diet and other factors. The researchers also discovered that certain strains of bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, can be protected against inflammatory bowel disease by eating citrus.
Researchers found that job loss is associated with a higher mortality rate, increasing by 73% among the unemployed, while economic slowdowns decrease population mortality. The study's findings reveal that recessions have health-promoting effects, outweighing the increased risk of death among the unemployed.
The annual HIV diagnosis rate in the US decreased by 33.2% from 2002 to 2011, driven by declines in several key populations, including women and persons aged 35-44 years. Despite increases among young men who have sex with men, overall diagnoses attributed to injection drug use or heterosexual contact decreased.
A study found that lower income populations have consistently had lower rates of living donation compared to higher income populations. The difference in living donation rates between lower and higher income populations has become larger over time, implying a need for more effective strategies to overcome financial barriers.
A new mathematical model suggests that implementing Xpert MTB/RIF as part of a more ambitious rollout strategy, including private sector engagement and referral networks, could reduce TB incidence by 14.1% in India. The current narrow implementation strategy is expected to only reduce incidence by 0.2%.
Testicular cancer incidence has been increasing dramatically among young Hispanic American men, with a 58% rise from 1992 to 2010. The rate of testicular germ cell tumor is now expected to outpace that of non-Hispanic white men in the US.
Researchers predict ranavirus as a potential new culprit in amphibian extinctions, especially in isolated wood frog populations. The study suggests that frequent exposure to the virus can lead to extinction within five years.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against screening for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis due to its high rate of false positives. A systematic review found no evidence that screening improves outcomes, but also identified a small risk of harms such as stroke and mortality.
A new study by John Bongaarts found that mortality projections from low-mortality countries are overly pessimistic, as the decline in smoking-related mortality is not accounted for. This suggests that pension and healthcare costs will rise due to an aging population living longer.
The Affordable Care Act can improve the US population's health by focusing on disease prevention, health promotion, and early detection. The Act promotes collaboration between healthcare and public health systems, leading to better quality services and greater integration of public health entities into healthcare.
The war on terror is incorporating medicine into warfare, undermining population health and exacerbating global health inequities. Humanitarian and health workers face profound moral distress due to being treated as tools in the war on terror.
A comprehensive analysis of Mexico's genomic diversity identified a dazzling mosaic of genotypes and population substructures across the country. The researchers found that variations in Native American ancestry significantly affect biomedical traits like lung function.
A comprehensive genetic study of the Mexican population identified tremendous genetic diversity reflecting thousands of years of separation, explaining health factors such as differing rates of breast cancer and asthma. The study provides an explanation for misdiagnoses and incorrect treatment based on ethnic heritage.
A Princeton University study reveals that recent Mexican migrants are more likely to experience rapid changes in health, both good and bad, than other groups. The study found that the health of recent migrants was about 60% more likely to worsen within a one- or two-year period.
Researchers identified a strong genetic risk factor for type 2 diabetes that primarily affects Latin American patients, with potential implications for tailored treatments. The study's findings suggest that patients carrying this variant may benefit from drugs effective in treating MODY, a rare form of diabetes.
A genetic analysis of 3,700 Mexican and U.S. Latino individuals identified a gene variant associated with a 5-fold increase in type 2 diabetes prevalence. The HNF1A gene variant was found to be more common in participants with type 2 diabetes, particularly in Latino patients.
A new study reveals that habitat loss on breeding grounds in the United States is the main cause of recent and projected population declines of migratory monarch butterflies in eastern North America. The research found that industrial farming has contributed to a significant decline in milkweed plants, which are essential for monarch c...
A mathematical model studies opinion dynamics in a population, considering factors like interaction with peers, media influence, and social media. The study provides insights into how information distribution affects societal opinions.
A UofL research team led by Valerie Lander McCarthy proposes a new definition of successful aging that goes beyond traditional measures of physical and cognitive function. The concept emphasizes the importance of coping with challenges, maintaining social connections, and finding meaning in life.
A study published in the American Thoracic Society found that sepsis is responsible for up to 52% of all hospital deaths in the US. The research analyzed 6.5 million hospital discharge records and estimated that sepsis patients had a mortality rate of 10.4%, compared to 1.1% for non-sepsis patients.