WHO Develops Toolkit to Help Health Professionals Communicate Climate Change Risks
Climate change presents both a threat and an opportunity for global health. The World Health Organization has developed a toolkit to help health professionals effectively communicate the health risks of climate change and advocate for climate-friendly practices. By leveraging their expertise, health professionals can empower communities to understand and embrace the health benefits associated with climate solutions, ultimately fostering a better understanding of the health implications of climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
Shortage of Syphilis Medication for Pregnant People: Government Intervention Needed
The shortage of syphilis medication for pregnant individuals is raising concerns about public health. With the surge in syphilis cases and devastating consequences for maternal and infant health, government intervention is needed to address the scarcity of this vital medication and ensure the well-being of vulnerable populations.
Man recovering well after receiving genetically modified pig kidney
62-year-old Rick Slayman received a genetically modified pig kidney in a pioneering transplant surgery, marking a major milestone in organ availability. With a chronic shortage of human donor organs, animal donors may provide hope for thousands in need of transplants. The special pig kidney was provided by eGenesis of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Mr. Slayman’s recovery is being closely monitored as he continues to take anti-rejection drugs.
Understanding Cataract Surgery and Success Rates
Cataract surgery is a common and successful procedure, with over 4 million surgeries performed in the U.S. each year. Despite misconceptions, the risk of post-surgery infection is extremely low, and over 90% of patients achieve 20/20 vision with glasses after the surgery. Ophthalmologists liken a cataract to frosted glass on a bathroom window to provide a clearer understanding, and advise patients on post-surgery precautions.
20,000 Missed Prostate Cancer Diagnoses During Pandemic
Research by the University of Surrey and the University of Oxford suggests that almost 20,000 cases of prostate cancer may have been missed during the pandemic, leading to a 31% drop in diagnoses in the UK. Death rates among men with prostate cancer tripled during the first year of the pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for a dedicated cancer plan to aid in the recovery and ultimately save lives.
Gene Therapy Breakthrough in Treatment of Inherited Heart Condition
Read about Tenaya Therapeutics’ breakthrough in gene therapy for ARVC, a genetic heart condition that can cause sudden death. New data published in Nature Communications Medicine shows promising results in mice, offering hope for potential future treatments for humans.
Can We Age Well If We Keep Ignoring Healthy Aging Advice?
Learn about the critical components of healthy aging, including the importance of movement, diet, and sleep. Research shows that ignoring healthy aging advice can have significant impacts on our overall health and longevity.
Growing Mini Organs from Amniotic Fluid Cells Could Revolutionize Prenatal Medicine
The potential to grow miniature organs from cells found in amniotic fluid could revolutionize prenatal medicine, offering the possibility of treating health defects in fetuses before they are born. Researchers have successfully cultivated mini organs from tissue-specific stem cells extracted from amniotic fluid during active pregnancies, a groundbreaking development that could pave the way for monitoring and treating congenital conditions before birth.
Generative AI Improves Healthcare-Associated Infection Surveillance, Study Finds
Researchers have found that generative artificial intelligence (AI) could improve healthcare-associated infection (HAI) surveillance programs, addressing the significant challenge of HAIs in healthcare. The study assessed the accuracy of two large language models in identifying central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) and catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) in clinical scenarios, showing promising results for AI in enhancing infection surveillance programs.
Are statins and blood pressure medication to blame for kidney disease?
Many people who take statins and blood pressure medication may wonder if these drugs could have caused their kidney problems. Statins and ARBs, while beneficial for heart health, can in rare cases lead to kidney damage. However, the benefits of these drugs typically outweigh the risks, and patients should continue taking their prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.