Impact of COVID-19 on Colorectal Cancer Surgeries Revealed in Recent Study
Recent research published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (JACS) has revealed a significant decline in surgeries for colorectal cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study, which involved a large-scale retrospective analysis of 105,517 cases, showed a 17.3% overall decrease in surgeries in 2020 compared to 2019, with a noticeable shift towards more advanced stages of the disease among patients who underwent surgery in 2020. Dr. David W. Larson, senior author of the study, emphasized the profound impact of the decrease in surgeries, highlighting the critical importance of timely surgery in improving patient outcomes for this serious illness.
Study Raises Concerns About Daily Cannabis Use and Heart Health
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association raises concerns about the potential adverse effects of daily cannabis use on heart health. The study found that daily cannabis smokers faced a 25% increased risk of heart attack and a 42% increased risk of stroke compared to non-users. The findings highlight the potential health implications associated with frequent cannabis consumption, particularly in relation to heart health, as the debate surrounding marijuana legalization continues.
New Therapies for COPD Set to Revolutionize Treatment Paradigm in 2024
Learn about the potential paradigm shift in COPD treatment with the imminent entry of new therapies such as Dupixent and Ensifentrine, both of which have successfully met their trial endpoints and are projected to revolutionize the treatment paradigm for COPD. GlobalData anticipates Dupixent to achieve total sales of $21.4 billion globally by 2029, while Ensifentrine is forecast to generate sales of $1.1 billion by the same year. With promising results from two phase 3 clinical trials, Dupixent has the potential to address the current gap in the COPD market due to the absence of biologics.
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.