A new study found that fentanyl-laced prescription pills are driving a surge in overdose deaths among high school age adolescents in the US. The death rate for this group has increased to 5.2 per 100,000, with Arizona and Colorado experiencing rates double the national average.
The Colorado Center for Personalized Medicine has hit a major milestone of returning clinical genetic results to over 30,000 patients, making it a leader in providing personalized patient care. The center is also studying pharmacogenomics and providing results to guide drug selection and dosing.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that high-striving minority youth in early adolescence may experience accelerated puberty development, a potential indicator of 'skin-deep resilience,' which can lead to physiological changes such as inflammation and metabolic disorders.
Researchers found that mutations in IDO2 can affect dopamine release and lead to ASD-like behaviors. IDO2 KO mice exhibited changes in microglia populations, which may contribute to synaptic abnormalities.
A Washington State University study found that living near nature can reduce serious psychological distress and improve general health in older adults. Researchers analyzed data from over 42,000 people aged 65 and older, finding a strong association between access to green spaces and better mental and physical health outcomes.
A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found that stressed women undergoing fertility treatment may experience higher blood sugar levels during pregnancy, which can lead to weaker cardiovascular health. Women who conceived through intrauterine insemination (IUI) had higher stress and blood sugar levels than those...
Researchers examine the dynamic nature of fear responses in varied environments, shedding light on physical manifestation of memory in the brain. The study reveals that fear memories are linked to pathological states like PTSD and generalized anxiety, with direct translational relevance for disorders involving dysregulated fear responses.
Researchers found that infants with enlarged perivascular spaces have a 2.2 times greater chance of developing autism compared to those with the same genetic risk. The study also indicates that these infants are more likely to experience sleep problems seven to ten years after diagnosis.
The latest issues of APA journals focus on improving clinical outcomes, exploring disparities in school-based support, and addressing civil commitment hearings. These studies aim to inform new interventions and improve mental health care.
A new study led by Oregon Health & Science University found that integrating physical and behavioral health services in Medicaid managed care did not lead to improved access or outcomes for patients. Despite the expectation that such integration would drive positive changes, the research revealed no statistically significant improvemen...
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health estimates that social media platforms generated nearly $11 billion in ad revenue from U.S.-based users younger than 18 in 2022. The study found that YouTube derived the greatest ad revenue from users under 18, followed by Instagram and Facebook.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified teneurin-3 as a key protein for stabilizing the body's circadian rhythms. The protein helps wire the brain during neural development to allow for stable responses to light changes, reducing the impact of disruptions on sleep and other cycles.
Researchers at Kyoto University analyzed queries on Yahoo! Chiebukuro and found that users were seeking information on overdosing from OTCs to alleviate physical pain or experience psychosomatic changes. The study highlights the need for reliable information on OTC abuse to be effectively disseminated.
A study led by Alexander Testa and Jack Tsai found a significant association between loneliness and recent firearm acquisition among low-income US veterans. Loneliness was measured on a scale of zero to six, with 13.7% of those scoring six having purchased a new firearm in the past year.
A study of 70 autistic youths in psychiatric hospitals found wearable biosensing and machine learning can identify impending aggressive behaviors. The findings suggest a potential for developing adaptive intervention systems to prevent aggression.
A new study highlights the wide range of urban exposures during early childhood that can influence growth and development, including air and noise pollution, overcrowding, and limited green space. The first 2000 days of life are a critical period for physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health outcomes.
Women who lost a parent early in life are more likely to experience adult separation anxiety and anxious attachment with romantic partners. These women tend to peak in anxiety levels within the first five years of relationships before declining after a decade.
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a debilitating condition causing intense vomiting, hair loss, and mental health issues. Researcher Cheryl Beck studied 33 blog posts from women in Australia, finding six consistent themes: physical debilitation, emotional distress, and financial struggles.
A University of Limerick study examined the association between adverse childhood experiences and premature mortality. The research found that self-acceptance and purpose in life are crucial factors explaining why childhood adversity is linked to future longevity.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that individuals exposed to childhood trauma are at an increased risk of experiencing chronic pain and pain-related disability in adulthood. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to address adverse childhood experiences.
Researchers found that less than two percent of patients in Medicaid and commercially insured plans received Z-codes to document Social Determinants of Health. The study highlights the need for improved tracking and documentation of SDOH in healthcare settings, with recommendations for policy changes and provider education.
A study of 13,000 patients reveals few completed preoperative life-sustaining treatment documentation, with gaps in rates based on patient characteristics. The disparity affects veterans from different racial, ethnic, and rural backgrounds, as well as those with access to high-volume facilities.
Scientists at Medical College of Wisconsin create biased agonists that reduce hallucinogenic effects while preserving therapeutic potential. These compounds, designed to selectively activate serotonin receptors, show promise in treating depression and other mental health conditions.
A UC San Diego study found biomarkers in blood that can help identify individuals at high risk of becoming suicidal, offering a new approach to personalize mental health care. The researchers also discovered sex-based differences in how depression impacts cell metabolism and identified potential targets for future drugs.
The study highlights the need for a culturally informed approach to improve mental well-being of Black Americans, who face greater exposure to risk factors due to centuries of racism. Community-based participatory research and inclusive systems are proposed as solutions to combat systemic biases and inequities.
A new study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that female patients with a history of suicidality experience increased suicidal ideation and planning during the premenstrual phase, offering new guidance for clinicians. The study identified individual differences in how the menstrual cycle affects symptoms and suicidality.
A new study published in the Journal of Health Communication found that news sites, especially UK and US sources, continue to use stigmatizing images when reporting on obesity. The research highlights the need for news media to be mindful of the images included in health news articles.
A large study found that sleep disturbances in preschool-aged children are strongly associated with both resolved and new cases of emotional and behavioral difficulties. Routine screening and treatment of sleep issues may help improve psychosocial well-being in this population.
A new relationship app, developed by a University of Rochester psychologist, has been shown to improve romantic relationships. The app sends daily prompts that encourage meaningful conversations, enhancing awareness and promoting moments of connection among couples.
A recent study published in NeuroImage found that physically active individuals experienced less decline in entorhinal cortex thickness over a seven-year period. Cognitive reserve is also boosted through regular mental stimulation, suggesting that brains can be trained like muscles to counteract age-related decline.
Researchers will compare two healthcare delivery models focusing on early detection and control of postpartum hypertension and social/mental health factors. The study aims to improve birth outcomes for women and children in underserved communities through a patient-centered approach.
A Rutgers study finds adults with cognitive disabilities report lower overall satisfaction with healthcare services and worse experiences in encounters. Poor patient-provider communication is a key contributing factor.
Research highlights the role of racism in producing mental health disparities among Black Americans, calling for community-driven action to reduce inequitable care. The study's findings emphasize the need to address systemic racism as a root cause of poor mental health outcomes.
A new longitudinal study has found a strong link between body dissatisfaction and depression in children, with high BMI at age seven increasing depressive symptoms by age 14. Body dissatisfaction was the major contributor to this association, explaining 43% of the link.
A six-year study using deep learning identified five categories of adolescents at risk of self-harm and suicidal thoughts. The 'discrepant' group, often overlooked by caregivers, was found to be the most vulnerable. Understanding these factors is key to supporting preventive efforts and early intervention.
A large international sample of single women aged 18-67 years was surveyed on their ideal partner characteristics, revealing links between age and preferences. Most attributes were consistently important across ages, but higher age correlated with a preference for confident partners and greater acceptance of younger partners.
A new study from the University of Texas at Austin found that depression in adult caregivers is mostly driven by having a loved one experiencing serious health problems. Conversely, becoming a caregiver was associated with fewer symptoms of depression. The research suggests that caregiving may have a protective effect on mental health.
The report found that women veterans face multiple barriers to accessing veteran-specific mental health services, including feelings of exclusion, lack of understanding by clinicians, and inadequate visibility in service branding. The study suggests improving clinician knowledge, increasing visibility of women's experiences, and provid...
A study published in the Journal of Nursing Administration found that Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced PTSD, anxiety, and burnout in frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The technique improved flourishing by 15% and decreased symptoms by more than half over a 3-month period.
A new commentary in JAMA Pediatrics recommends improving adolescents' media information literacy skills and promoting inclusive content to combat health misinformation spread on social media. This approach aims to harness the potential of social media as a tool for positive connections and mental well-being.
Research found elevated risks between intimate partner violence and childhood sexual abuse and various health conditions. Intimate partner violence was associated with increased risk of major depressive disorders, maternal abortion, and alcohol misuse, while childhood sexual abuse linked to increased risk of self-harm and alcohol use.
A small molecule drug compound has shown promise in treating multiple sclerosis by targeting the glutamate system, reducing MS-like symptoms and repairing damaged myelin. The results come from a CAMH-led pre-clinical study published in Science Advances.
A NIH-funded study found associations between maternal prenatal inflammation and children's attention, anxiety, depression, and aggression. The research used the Child Behavior Checklist to measure aggressive behavior, anxiety/depression, and attention problems in 4,595 participants aged 6-18 years.
A study found increased brain inflammation and structural changes in special operations personnel exposed to blasts, potentially increasing the risk of long-term brain-related disease. The research suggests that repetitive exposure to low-level blasts may cause brain injuries and highlights the need for better protective measures.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that many couples around the world share high blood pressure. The research analyzed data from over 50,000 couples in four countries and found a strong association between partners' blood pressure status.
A new study identified genetic indicators that can predict cognitive decline in people affected by extreme stressors like psychiatric disorders or childhood maltreatment. The research found accelerated biological aging to be a biomarker for cognitive decline, which may help create treatments to improve health outcomes.
A study of nearly 16,000 kindergarten children found that total screen time and different content types were associated with mental health problems. Limiting screen time and prioritizing educational programs are recommended for young children.
The December issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services explore postpartum depression, responses to stress in adulthood, and adversity in children. APA highlights increased rates of suicide among Black women, shedding light on childhood resilience and genetics.
A new study reveals a disproportionate increase in pediatric eating disorder hospitalizations, particularly among males, younger teens, and those with eating disorders other than anorexia or bulimia. Hospitalizations rose by 139% over 17 years, with the greatest increases seen for these atypical groups.
The ASHP/ASHP Foundation Pharmacy Forecast Report identifies growing societal challenges that will alter healthcare delivery, including the impact of ultra-high-cost drugs on service lines. Pharmacists' engagement is crucial to ensuring safe care for all patients, particularly in addressing mental health and substance use disorders.
A new randomised controlled trial found that an 18-month meditation programme can improve the wellbeing of older adults by enhancing their awareness, connection to others, and insight. However, it did not confer significant benefits on two commonly used measures of psychological wellbeing.
A new study found that adverse childhood experiences are associated with greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms in Canadian adolescents and young adults. Adverse childhood experiences, such as domestic violence and emotional abuse, may lead to body dissatisfaction and the pursuit of muscularity as a coping mechanism.
A study of 3 million US adults found anxiety and depression were significantly higher among younger adults, possibly due to economic conditions and social upheaval. The findings highlight the need for targeted mental health care and economic policies for younger adults during the pandemic.
A study in Denmark found that women experience a significant increase in mental health medication use after involuntary temporary work, but men do not. The research suggests that women may struggle more with the emotional and psychological impacts of temporary employment.
Researchers at Union College found that viewing derogatory social media posts about mental health treatment can significantly impact attitudes towards treatment. Women who don't hold traditional views of femininity were particularly affected, reporting increased stigma against mental health treatment.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that accurately predicted improvements in brain health using neural biomarkers. The study achieved 90% accuracy and confirmed a functional relationship between the BrainHealth Index and neural markers.
A UCLA study found that substance abuse treatment can lead to reduced methamphetamine usage and longer periods of abstinence. The study, which analyzed responses from nearly 300 men in Los Angeles, suggests that even limited treatment options can be effective in reducing methamphetamine use.
A novel brain stimulation technique has shown significant improvement in patients with hard-to-treat depression, with 66% responding to treatment and nearly half achieving acute remission. The study's findings are promising, particularly for patients who have tried other treatments without success.
A two-year study found that participants who received personalized coaching experienced a modest boost in cognitive testing, measuring a 74% improvement over the non-intervention group. Additionally, improvements were noted between the two groups in measurements of risk factors and quality of life.
A new study reveals that threats against public health workers increased and changed in nature during the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting nearly half of local health directors and leading to increased turnover and burnout. The study calls for expanded legal protections and resilience training for the public health workforce.