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Showing posts from April, 2023

Can You Spot Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder?

A novelty for children, the condition is frustrating for patients and clinicians alike. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991398?src=rss

Wireless Neurostimulation Safe for Urge Incontinence

More than 8 in 10 women who received the treatment showed improvement, a new study found. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991313?src=rss

European Associations Review Dietary Therapies for Obesity

A new statement responds to the need to confront a problem with "epidemic overtones" that continues to grow across Europe, according to its authors. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991361?src=rss

Heart Disease Screening Showed No Kidney Transplant Benefit

Screening for coronary heart disease in asymptomatic, low-risk people listed for a kidney transplant often happens in US practice, but evidence showing it helps is lacking. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991358?src=rss

Climate Change May Promote the Global Spread of Arboviruses

Arboviruses such as chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are being detected in new regions that are ill prepared to confront them. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991352?src=rss

Better Monitoring of Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity Needed

More than half of patients treated with cisplatin develop hearing impairment, but there are few guidelines on the monitoring, prevention, and management of ototoxicity. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991347?src=rss

First Guideline for Treating Oligometastatic NSCLC

New guidance on the use of definitive local therapy to treat patients with oligometastatic non–small cell lung cancer has been issued by the American Society for Radiation Oncology and European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991342?src=rss

Remote Weight Monitoring Minimizes Office Visits for Newborns

Weight checks reported virtually resulted in parents bringing their infants in less often to see doctors in person, potentially reducing exposure to viruses found in office settings. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991236?src=rss

Drive, Chip, and Putt Your Way to Osteoarthritis Relief

If only there were a low-impact exercise that was incredibly popular among the generally older population who are likely to have arthritis. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991300?src=rss

Sex Trafficking Survivor Describes Impact of Tattoo Removal

Branding tattoo removal helps sex trafficking survivor close door on painful past. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991296?src=rss

Intraoperative Pathology Spurs Overtreatment in Mastectomy

Pathology analysis of sentinel lymph nodes during mastectomy for early stage breast cancer is more likely to result in over-aggressive axillary management, suggested a US study. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991295?src=rss

Preop MRI Does Not Reduce Positive Margins in Breast Surgery

Having an MRI before surgery does not help to reduce positive surgical margins in women undergoing a lumpectomy, say US researchers. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991288?src=rss

Mammography After Breast Cancer for Older Patients

Older women with breast cancer often undergo surveillance mammography, regardless of their life expectancy or other health risks, say US researchers who highlight potential harms of the practice. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991283?src=rss

Tirzepatide Scores Win in Second Obesity Trial, SURMOUNT-2

The "twincretin" tirzepatide (Mounjaro) met its primary endpoints compared with placebo in the SURMOUNT-2 trial, designed to test weight loss efficacy, in top-line results reported by Lilly. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991277?src=rss

Antibiotic Combo Raises Kidney Injury Risk in the ICU

The risk of acute kidney injury was greatest with treatment of 48 hours or longer. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991218?src=rss

Cycle Timing May Reduce Hormonal Dosage for Contraception

Researchers examined how the timing of hormone administration during a cycle might affect the amount of hormones needed for contraception. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991212?src=rss

Vaccines, Better Tests Are Coming for Lyme Disease

It is estimated that 476,000 people in the US are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease annually. WebMD Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991211?src=rss

The Introvert’s Dream: Alone for 500 Days, but Never Lonely

Beatriz Flamini spent more than 16 months alone in a 70-meter deep cave. She lost track of time after 2 months, flies invaded the cave on occasion, and maintaining coherence was occasionally a struggle. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991209?src=rss

Novel Continuous Infusion System Promising for Parkinson's

Continuous infusion strategies have long been sought as a method to preserve levodopa efficacy. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991208?src=rss

New ABIM Fees Irk Physicians

The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) is not listing physicians who've passed their board exams as being board certified unless they pay a new annual fee ― angering some doctors. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991206?src=rss

Meta-Analysis Probes Cancer Risk Concern for JAK Inhibitors

Although no increased cancer risk was seen vs methotrexate or placebo, Janus kinase inhibitors were associated with a higher cancer risk than were tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in a meta-analysis. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991205?src=rss

Low Uptake of Treat-to-Target Endoscopic Monitoring in IBD

Only about half of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) undergo colonoscopy in the 3 to 15 months after starting a new IBD treatment, even though the procedure is widely recommended. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991204?src=rss

Explanation Proposed for Long-COVID Symptoms in the CNS

The neurologic symptoms of long COVID appear to be explained by a phenomenon known as antigenic imprinting. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991160?src=rss

Improvements Needed to Reach Cancer Moonshot Goals

Researchers highlight improvements that are needed in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment in order to meet President Joe Biden's goal of a 50% reduction in cancer mortality in 25 years’ time. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991161?src=rss

Novel Strategy Could Improve Heart Transplant Allocation

The current "six-status" ranking system is under review, and stakeholders propose changes aimed at improving equity and outcomes. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991156?src=rss

Smoking Cessation Has Many Benefits in Diabetes

In addition to a slight and temporary risk for blood sugar imbalance, smoking cessation is associated with reduced risks for all-cause mortality and for macro- and microangiopathic complications. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991151?src=rss

Hospitals Log Patients' Immigration Status: New Florida Law

Legislation expected to be signed soon by the governor would require hospitals to report patients' citizenship to a state agency beginning July 1. It could create ethical and legal challenges for physicians. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991144?src=rss

Uncontrolled Wet AMD: Drug Switch Can Mute Disease Activity

Phase 3 data from the 2023 ARVO meeting showed treatment with the monoclonal antibody improved visual acuity in some patients. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991143?src=rss

Metformin Linked to Reduced Osteoarthritis Risk

Though the findings were in observational studies, one of which did not reach significance, the results line up with the findings of other preclinical and human observational studies. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991098?src=rss

New Brain Pacemaker Cuts Seizures in Severe Epilepsy

A pooled analysis of two first-in-human trials of the Epicranial Application of Stimulation Electrodes for Epilepsy neuromodulation system reduced seizure frequency by at least half in most patients. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991099?src=rss

Thyroid Test: Seasonal Variation May Lead to Overprescribing

Seasonal differences in one of the hormones used to test thyroid function, thyroid stimulating hormone, could in turn lead to overprescribing of thyroxine for hypothyroidism, says lab scientist. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991095?src=rss

Liver Disease Does Not Worsen IVF Outcomes

In vitro fertilization treatment and pregnancy outcomes do not differ significantly between women with and those without liver disease who undergo treatment with assisted reproductive technology, a study finds. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991093?src=rss

FDA Okays Latest Artificial Pancreas, the MiniMed 780G

The updated automated insulin delivery system features so-called meal detection technology and 7-day wear for the insulin pump. FDA Approvals source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991091?src=rss

AI Detects Severe Thyroid Eye Disease

Automated analysis of CT scans may help patients with compressive optic neuropathy receive timely care, according to researchers. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991084?src=rss

No Survival Benefit With NAC for Advanced Stomach Cancer

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy did not improve survival in elderly patients undergoing gastrectomy for advanced gastric cancer. The study was published as a preprint and has not yet been peer reviewed. First Look source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991059?src=rss

Problems Have Delayed Germany's Medical Studies Reform

Questions about funding and other concerns have prevented the completion of the reform, and the new regulation for licensing physicians has also been affected. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991060?src=rss

Musculoskeletal Disorders Prevalent in Orchestra Musicians

Because of the pressures of their work, orchestra musicians often ignore pain that, if reported early, usually can be treated successfully. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991052?src=rss

Ruxolitinib for Vitiligo Approved for Marketing in EU

Last year in the United States, the topical JAK inhibitor became the first repigmentation treatment approved by the FDA for nonsegmental vitiligo, the most common form of the disease. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991047?src=rss

Pricey Diabetic Foot Ulcer Products Can't Beat Standard Care

Diabetic foot ulcer healing occurred at the same rate with standard wound care, standard care plus acellular matrix, or standard care plus cellular matrix in a randomized study with 117 patients. First Look source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991046?src=rss

ctDNA Promising for Cancer Detection, but Faces Challenges

ctDNA tests have the potential to identify many cancer types but researchers must assess their efficacy across different racial/ethnic groups. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991050?src=rss

AI Promising in Detecting TB From Chest X-rays

The performance of software is comparable to that of radiologists, new research indicates, and the technology may help diagnose more people in low-resource areas. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991011?src=rss

Utah Takes the Lead Granting PAs and NPs More Practice Freedom

Advanced practice providers score a double victory when Utah joins the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact and adopts full practice authority for nurse practitioners. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991013?src=rss

Durvalumab Pre, Post Surgery in NSCLC: Practice Changing?

The AEGEAN trial is the second phase 3 study, after Checkmate 816, to demonstrate a benefit from neoadjuvant immunotherapy for patients with resectable non–small cell lung cancer. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991010?src=rss

GSK Workers in UK to Strike in May Over Pay: Union

Hundreds of GSK workers have voted to stage a series of walkouts at UK manufacturing sites in May over a dispute over pay, in what could be a first at the British drugmaker, labour union Unite said on Wednesday. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990944?src=rss

What Are the Healthiest Drinks for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes?

People with type 2 diabetes who drink large amounts of sugary beverages face an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause death compared with those who stick to healthier options. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991008?src=rss

People Lost Faith in Childhood Vaccines During COVID Pandemic, UNICEF Says

People all over the world lost confidence in the importance of routine childhood vaccines against killer diseases like measles and polio during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report from UNICEF. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990997?src=rss

Race and Neighborhoods Play Role in Treating Childhood Cancer

Where children live while they are being treated for cancer has a bigger impact on the success of the treatment than children's race and ethnicity alone. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/991006?src=rss

FDA OKs Second COVID Bivalent Booster for Many Americans

The FDA on Tuesday approved a second bivalent COVID-19 booster for Americans at higher risk, in the hopes of increasing the public’s protection. WebMD Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990961?src=rss

Stand-Alone FIT Screening Poor Predictor of CRC Risk

But incorporating age and anemia status into FIT screening vastly improved risk prediction. The study was published as a preprint and has not yet been peer reviewed. First Look source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990955?src=rss

'Infuriating' Denial: Medicare Advantage Plan Reopens Case

An oncologist was surprised to see that health insurer WellCare denied approval for a drug she had prescribed within the indication. Before she could appeal, WellCare restarted the review process. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990948?src=rss

Study: Mother’s COVID-19 May Affect Boys’ Brain Development

The study involved more than 18,000 children born at eight hospitals in Massachusetts. Almost 900 of them were born to women who had COVID-19 while pregnant. WebMD Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990951?src=rss

Most Would Prefer to Be Buried in a Cardboard Box

Two thirds of Americans would "rather be buried in a cardboard box" than have their family overspend on a funeral. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990946?src=rss

Pembrolizumab Monotherapy Effective for Rare Melanoma

Pembrolizumab led to a dramatic overall response rate among patients with unresectable desmoplastic melanoma. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990945?src=rss

Social Media and Weight Loss Drugs: Are Regulators Watching?

Online platforms are overflowing with testimonials for GLP-1s. The drugs show promise for inducing weight loss, but many aren't FDA-approved for that use. Kaiser Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990919?src=rss

USPSTF Issues Updated Recommendations on Skin Cancer Screening

In its final recommendation statement on screening for skin cancer in adolescents and adults, the US Preventive Services Task Force determined that there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against screening people without symptoms. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990893?src=rss

Strong Need for Eating Disorder Screening in Patients With PTSD

PTSD is strongly linked to disordered eating, which in turn, impedes treatment for the anxiety disorder, in new findings that highlight the need for better eating disorder screening. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990906?src=rss

Strong Link Between Smoking and Diabetes

Without exception, epidemiologic studies point toward a link between active and, to a lesser extent, passive smoking and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990907?src=rss

Telehealth Suicide Prevention Program Safe, Acceptable

Veterans at high risk for suicide found the Project Life Force program convenient, and it allowed them to open up about their suicidal thoughts. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990905?src=rss

FDA OKs Stem Cell Therapy to Reduce Infection Risk

The agency called the approval of omidubicel "an important advance" for patients with blood cancer who are undergoing allogeneic umbilical cord blood stem cell transplants. FDA Approvals source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990896?src=rss

Odds of Heart Attack Six Times Higher With Flu Diagnosis

A new study strengthens findings from a previous study because it includes data on deaths outside the hospital. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990832?src=rss

Dutch to Widen 'Right-to-Die' to Include Terminally Ill Children

The Netherlands will widen its existing euthanasia regulations to include the possibility of doctor-assisted death for terminally ill children between 1 and 12 years old, the Dutch government said on Friday. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990765?src=rss

'Era Has Passed' as Beijing Subway Drops Mandatory COVID Mask Rule

Beijing's subway has dropped mandatory mask requirements for travelers, local media reported on Sunday. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990814?src=rss

No Evidence Yet Showing Which Animal COVID May Have Come From

There is no evidence yet showing which animal the COVID-causing virus may have come from, the former head of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said on Friday. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990760?src=rss

Some Mental Issues Are Best Treated With Exercise

Physical activity can sometimes be more effective than medications in treating depression, anxiety, and distress. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990819?src=rss

Study Compares Noninvasive Treatments of Cutaneous Neurofibromas

Since the epidermis overlying cNF is normal, "there is no reason to use nonselective or surgical methods and destroy a perfectly good epidermis when you don't need to," Patricia Richey, MD, said. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990818?src=rss

Potential downsides of ADHD overdiagnosis

Over the past few decades, U.S. children have become increasingly likely to receive a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to multiple national surveys . This unexplained rise in prevalence may be partly due to overdiagnosis, suggested a Lown Right Care article by Dr. Elizabeth Wolf and colleagues in the March issue of American Family Physician . They noted that the characteristic traits of ADHD – hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and impulsiveness – “exist on a continuum with normal behavior,” and that disease cutoffs have been gradually lowered, culminating in the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria which “lowered the percentage of criteria needed for diagnosing ADHD in older adolescents and increased the age by which behaviors must have first appeared (from seven to 12 years).” Evidence of situational ADHD overdiagnosis includes wide variations in stimulant prescriptions across states, higher rates in children who are young for their school grade, and comorb

Lidocaine Presurgery May Improve Survival in Early Breast Cancer

The findings support the use of peritumoral lidocaine as a low-cost intervention prior to surgery for patients with early-stage breast cancer. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990783?src=rss

What Happens to Melanocytic Nevi During Laser Hair Removal?

A systematic review included studies that evaluated changes in melanocytic nevi after laser hair removal procedures. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990782?src=rss

Suicide Deaths Rise, Reversing 2 Years of Decline

The US suicide rate climbed in 2021, reaching its highest level since 2018. It's now the eleventh leading cause of death in the US. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990780?src=rss

New Clues to How Air Pollution Fuels Lung Cancer in Nonsmokers

Air pollution may promote lung cancer in never-smokers by waking up cancer-causing cells, a finding that could have major implications for cancer prevention. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990777?src=rss

Physical Exercise Tied to a Reduction in Suicide Attempts

Patients with mental or physical illness who participated in an exercise intervention had fewer suicide attempts, although there was no reduction in suicidal ideation. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990766?src=rss

Food Insecurity Linked to More Rapid Cognitive Decline in Seniors

Food insecurity in older adults is linked to a more rapid decline in executive function, a new study shows. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990764?src=rss

You've Quit Smoking with Vaping. Now What?

Many Americans use vapes to quit smoking cigarettes. But because of nicotine levels of e-cigarettes, patients also may need help quitting the unauthorized cessation tools. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990753?src=rss

Are Self-Fitted and Audiologist-Fitted Hearing Aids Equal?

Currently, an estimated 22.9 million older Americans with audiometric hearing loss do not use hearing aids. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990727?src=rss

False Promise of Vaginal Laser Therapy in Breast Cancer Survivors

A sham-controlled study in breast cancer survivors with genitourinary syndrome of menopause found no benefit of vaginal laser "rejuvenation" therapy on sexual function. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990725?src=rss

First Pediatric Pain Management Standard Published in Canada

The standard provides guidance to health organizations on delivering equitable pain management for children across hospital settings. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990720?src=rss

Harnessing ChatGPT to Improve Liver Disease Outcomes

ChatGPT may be a useful adjunctive informational tool for patients with cirrhosis or liver cancer and their clinicians by generating easy-to-understand information about the disease. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990713?src=rss

Misoprostol-Only for Abortion: Viable Option but Not 'the Best'

While the fate of the use of mifepristone for abortions remains uncertain, experts said, use of the drug misoprostol by itself is effective and safe, but not ideal. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990705?src=rss

What Will Vaping Lead To? Research Shows Damage, and Addiction

What do scientists know about the harms of vaping? Evidence is still inconclusive, but early studies show that vapers will likely face long-term health repercussions. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990701?src=rss

J&J Talc Unit Faces Skepticism on Bankruptcy Settlement Support

A Johnson & Johnson company on Tuesday defended its second attempt to resolve talc lawsuits in bankruptcy. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990645?src=rss

Cancer, Heart Disease Vaccines May Be Ready by 2030, Moderna Says

'I think what we have learned is that if you ever thought that mRNA was just for infectious diseases, or just for COVID, the evidence now is that's absolutely not the case,' said Moderna CMO Paul Burton. WebMD Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990670?src=rss

Former Yale Professor Faked Data, Says Federal Watchdog

A liver researcher who worked at Yale University for 15 years faked data in multiple papers and grant applications. Retraction Watch source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990667?src=rss

Abortion Wars Dangerous for Doctors, Pharma to Ignore?

The AMA ducked the abortion issue for years and now sees its members' professional opinions second-guessed by lawmakers and judges. Pharma is following the same playbook. Kaiser Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990666?src=rss

How India's Birth Control Battle Falters in Rural District

Pratima Kumari, a government health worker in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, sets off on her mini scooter every morning to visit villages and meet young, married couples. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990616?src=rss

Heart Disease Risk May Start Before Birth

A woman's prepregnancy heart health is critical to both her health as well as the health of the children she gives birth to. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990657?src=rss

Rheumatic, MIS-C Patients' Parents Strongly Hesitant of COVID Vax

A single-center study and a survey of rheumatologists revealed similar levels of hesitancy among parents of both these populations. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990631?src=rss

US Appeals Texas Abortion Pill Ruling as States Stockpile the Drug

The US government on Monday appealed a Texas judge's decision to suspend the FDA's 23-year-old approval of a key abortion drug. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990596?src=rss

Hundreds of US Drugmakers Calling for Abortion Pill Ruling Reversal

Executives from more than 300 biotech and pharmaceutical industry companies, including Pfizer and Biogen, signed an open letter on Monday calling for reversal of a federal judge's decision to suspend sales of the abortion pill mifepristone. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990589?src=rss

Study Offers Dozens of Reasons to Cut Sugar

A new compilation of nearly all research to date on the health impacts of sugar offers dozens of reasons to cut back now. WebMD Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990624?src=rss

Timing of RT With Immunotherapy in Metastatic NSCLC

Radiotherapy followed by immunotherapy within 1–12 months ― but not sooner or later ― may boost progression-free survival in patients with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer, suggests new study. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990622?src=rss

High Proportion of BC Diabetes Drug Sales Goes to Americans

British Columbia is taking measures to ensure that its residents can access a type 2 diabetes therapy that some patients without diabetes use for its weight-loss benefits. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990585?src=rss

IUD-Released Levonorgestrel Eases Heavy Menstrual Periods

For women with excessive menstrual blood loss, the contraceptive levonorgestrel 52 mg delivered via an intrauterine device (IUD) reduced monthly blood loss. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990587?src=rss

Long COVID Hitting Some States, Minorities, Women Harder

More than 3 years into the COVID-19 pandemic, lasting symptoms are becoming quite common, with residents of certain states, women, Hispanic people, and transgender people more at risk. WebMD Health News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990582?src=rss

Births in Italy Hit Record Low in 2022, Population Shrinks Further

Births in Italy dropped to a new historic low below 400,000 in 2022, national statistics bureau ISTAT said on Friday, as the population continued to shrink. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990549?src=rss

Upadacitinib Shows Earliest Relief in Ulcerative Colitis

A network meta-analysis ranked eight therapies for ulcerative colitis based on how fast they acted to relieve symptoms, with upadacitinib appearing most effective and ozanimod least effective. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990578?src=rss

You're Likely Not as Smart as You Think You Are

Most people don't know their own IQs, and younger men and older women tend to overestimate their intelligence. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990579?src=rss

New Medicare Rule Streamlines Prior Auth in MA Plans

CMS seeks to ensure people in Advantage plans have the same access to necessary care as those in traditional Medicare. The agency also cracked down on Medicare Advantage marketing for "sowing confusion." Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990564?src=rss

Ukrainians Taught About Artificial Limbs in Germany to Help War Wounded

Denys Kryvenko was among Ukrainian soldiers retreating from the eastern city of Bakhmut in October when Russian shells hit. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990512?src=rss

Antimicrobial Resistance Requires a Manifold Response

If inappropriate prescribing practices and the lack of diagnostic laboratories are not overcome, "we're going to miss out on those drugs as soon as they become available," said a WHO official. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990557?src=rss

Glutathione a Potential Biomarker for Postpartum Suicide

The findings could enable the antioxidant to be used as a treatment in women at 18 months postpartum who are at risk for suicide. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990552?src=rss

Atrial Fibrillation Risk With Cancer Drugs Underestimated

Many cancer therapies increase the risk of atrial fibrillation, but this is underreported in clinical trials, and so oncologists may underestimate the risk of this adverse event. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990547?src=rss

High Burden, Unclear Benefit of Barrett’s Screening in US

More than half of US adults may meet criteria for Barrett’s esophagus screening, potentially imposing a huge resource burden, especially with endoscopic procedures. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990519?src=rss

Antiphospholipid Antibodies Linked to Future CV Events

The study raises the possibility of one day treating the immune system in some individuals for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, researchers suggest. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990513?src=rss

COVID-19 in Pregnancy Affects Growth in Child's First Year of Life

Infants exposed to COVID-19 in utero had an accelerated weight gain during the first year of life, but whether they go on to be more at risk of obesity, diabetes or cardiovascular disease remains unknown. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990500?src=rss

First Guidelines for Cannabis in Chronic Pain Released

The first clinical practice guidelines for cannabis in chronic pain management may help clinicians offer an effective and less addictive alternative to opioids. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990506?src=rss

Survival Improved for Some Patients With Metastatic Cancers

Over the past 30 years, survival of patients with de novo metastatic cancers shows divergent trends, with substantial gains against some cancers but limited or no progress against others. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990499?src=rss

Noisy Incubators Could Stunt Infant Hearing

An analysis of incubator noise showed that high decibel levels and abrupt noises in incubators might increase the risk of hearing impairment. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990468?src=rss

ATS: Take Race Out of Spirometry

The American Thoracic Society now advises clinicians use a race-neutral average reference to assess lung function. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990467?src=rss

Arbutus Files Patent Lawsuit Against Pfizer/BioNTech Over COVID Vaccines

Arbutus Biopharma on Tuesday sued Pfizer and BioNTech in a New Jersey district court, claiming their mRNA COVID-19 vaccines infringe five of Arbutus' patents. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990412?src=rss

De-Escalation Has Lasting Benefits for HER2+ Breast Cancers

If diagnosed at an early stage, HER2-positive tumors have a good prognosis and can be treated with less aggressive and less toxic chemotherapies. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990456?src=rss

Monoclonal Antibody for COVID Gets FDA Emergency Use Authorization

The FDA on Tuesday granted emergency use authorization to Inflarx NV's monoclonal antibody for the treatment of hospitalized COVID patients. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990441?src=rss

More Data Needed for Neoadjuvant Tx for Bile Duct Cancer

In a debate held recently on the use of neoadjuvant therapy for high-risk intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, both sides agreed that more research is needed. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990448?src=rss

FTC Orders Illumina to Divest Cancer Detection Test Maker Grail

The US Federal Trade Commission on Monday ordered Illumina to divest cancer diagnostic test maker Grail, finding that its ownership would stifle competition in the US market for cancer tests. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990377?src=rss

HHS Unveils National Cancer Plan With Eight Achievable Goals

The new plan from the US Department of Health and Human Services includes eight 'ambitious, achievable goals' to reduce the cancer death rate by at least half within 25 years. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990421?src=rss

Long Waits for Hip and Knee Replacements Persist in Canada

Wait times of 6 months have been common during the pandemic, and the need for these procedures continues to grow as the population ages. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990416?src=rss

PNPLA3 Genotype, Diabetes Predict Cirrhosis in NAFLD

Those with diabetes and indeterminate FIB4 scores may have the same risk of cirrhosis as patients with a high FIB4. MDedge News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990411?src=rss

Keeping Kids Active May Hold Off Colds

Keeping children physically active may help them avoid upper respiratory infections, including the common cold. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990410?src=rss

Can ChatGPT Replace Diabetes Educators? Perhaps Not Yet

'Even though we may not recommend use of ChatGPT...to our patients, some are still going to use [it]. [We need to be] better equipped to advise our patients who' obtain information from such a source. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990381?src=rss

Many Male Childhood Cancer Survivors Want, but Don't Have, Kids

A study found that 1 in 4 male survivors of childhood cancers want children but don't have them. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990382?src=rss

Childhood Lupus Severity Linked to Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health were linked to lupus disease severity in children, but it will take more than awareness among doctors to address the clinical implications of these findings. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990379?src=rss

Uptick in Stimulant Prescribing Linked to the Pandemic

The CDC reports an increase in prescriptions for stimulant medications in older children and adults during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990378?src=rss

Ocular Toxicity With New Drugs for Gynecologic Cancers

Antibody-drug conjugates are a promising new option for gynecologic cancers, but they have a variety of ocular or vision-related adverse events that need to be appropriately monitored and managed. Medscape Medical News source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990372?src=rss

Spanking Can Hurt a Child in More Ways Than One

Spanking children may worsen their social behaviors and have a detrimental impact on their social development. Quick Take source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990370?src=rss

Syphilis Cases in Babies Skyrocket in Canada Amid Healthcare Failures

The numbers of babies born with syphilis in Canada are rising at a far faster rate than recorded in the United States or Europe. Reuters Health Information source https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990317?src=rss