Medical research and development
Medical research and development in healthcare is a dynamic and multifaceted field that aims to improve medical techniques, treatments and technologies. The ongoing development and refinement of medical knowledge and practices are fundamental to addressing current and emerging healthcare challenges and improving outcomes for individuals and populations.
Top Stories
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13 May 2026
Why the FDA’s push for real-time clinical trials could favor Big Pharma
The agency’s new initiative promises faster drug approval times, but smaller trial sponsors could struggle to keep up. Continue Reading
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01 May 2026
Lilly posts another ‘blowout quarter’ as focus turns to Foundayo launch
A strong performance from Mounjaro overseas boosted Lilly’s results, and the company raised its guidance for the year for both profit and revenue. Continue Reading
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17 Jun 2024
Accurately diagnosing T1D, identifying biomarkers
The ACCESS-T1D study works to improve T1D diagnoses among at-risk groups and identify biomarkers for more straightforward disease diagnosis. Continue Reading
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14 Jun 2024
Even plant-based ultra-processed foods are linked to higher CVD risk
A study evaluating the effects of ultra-processed food on CVD outcomes found that even plant-based ultra-processed foods had a negative impact on cardiovascular health. Continue Reading
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13 Jun 2024
SCOTUS votes to uphold FDA’s mifepristone mailing regulations
The ruling upholds access to medication abortions by continuing to allow the FDA’s regulatory approach for distributing the drug without an in-person doctor’s visit. Continue Reading
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11 Jun 2024
A planetary health diet lowers the risk of total mortality
Across the US, a higher planetary health diet index reduces the risk of total and cause-specific mortality while improving environmental health. Continue Reading
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10 Jun 2024
Analyzing USPSTF's updated breast cancer screening recommendations
The new USPSTF breast cancer guidelines recommend biannual screenings starting at age 40, raising concerns about missed cases, dense breast tissue, and equitable access. Continue Reading
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07 Jun 2024
NIAID releases H5N1 research agenda with 4 primary objectives
These objectives focus on varying factors, including understanding viral biology and transmission, prevention strategies, advancing treatments, and enhancing detection. Continue Reading
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06 Jun 2024
WHO identifies first bird flu death in 59-year-old man
The WHO has confirmed the first bird flu-related death in a 59-year-old man in Mexico City who did not have a history of exposure to poultry or other animals. Continue Reading
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05 Jun 2024
J&J to settle 99.75% of talc lawsuits with $6.5B reorganization plan
J&J plans a $6.5B reorganization to settle 99.75% of talc lawsuits, despite a recent $260M mesothelioma verdict and ongoing ovarian cancer claims. Continue Reading
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04 Jun 2024
Cardiovascular disease will impact over 61% of the US by 2050
Impacting over 184 million people across the US, cardiovascular disease will contribute to $1.8 trillion in direct and indirect costs by 2050. Continue Reading
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31 May 2024
FDA grants breakthrough designation for ovarian cancer liquid biopsy
Mercy BioAnalytics, Inc. received a breakthrough device designation for its Mercy Halo Ovarian Cancer Screening test in asymptomatic premenopausal women. Continue Reading
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29 May 2024
Introducing peanuts in infancy minimizes allergy risk in adolescence
Regular peanut consumption before the age of five reduces the rate of peanut allergies in adolescence by 71%. Continue Reading
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28 May 2024
Managing bird flu risks with advances in prevention
Bird flu, caused by viruses like H5N1 and H7N9, poses severe risks to humans, especially those in close contact with birds, but preventative measures can curb transmission. Continue Reading
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23 May 2024
Emerging solutions to address the environmental impact of pregnancy tests
The global plastic waste crisis, driven by excess single-use plastics like pregnancy tests, is a major concern; however, innovative options offer eco-friendly solutions. Continue Reading
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22 May 2024
Researchers identify microplastics in human testicular tissue
This discovery indicates the presence of microplastics in the male reproductive system, which may be impacting reproductive health. Continue Reading
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21 May 2024
AAP updates breastfeeding guidelines for individuals with HIV
The updated guidelines acknowledge that, with proper treatment, the risk of transmitting HIV through breastfeeding is less than 1%. Continue Reading
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17 May 2024
FLiRT COVID variant is now the leading variant across the US
CDC data reveals that the newest COVID variant, KP.2, nicknamed FLiRT, has surpassed JN.1 as the leading variant across the US. Continue Reading
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15 May 2024
Louisiana moves to criminalize mifepristone, misoprostol
Louisiana lawmakers proposed an amendment to criminalize mifepristone and misoprostol, the pills used for medication abortions, classifying them as dangerous substances. Continue Reading
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14 May 2024
A Synchrony study reveals alarming trends in hearing health awareness, action
A recent study reveals that, despite prioritizing hearing health, most consumers delay action, highlighting the need for awareness and accessibility in hearing care. Continue Reading
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13 May 2024
CDC unveils wastewater dashboard to track the spread of H5N1 bird flu
CDC introduces a wastewater dashboard tracking influenza A viruses, aiding H5N1 bird flu surveillance and enhancing early detection and response. Continue Reading
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13 May 2024
Geroscience: targeting aging mechanisms for preventing chronic disease
Geroscience is an emerging field focusing on understanding and addressing aging mechanisms to avoid age-related chronic diseases. Continue Reading
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08 May 2024
Caution urged as bird flu spreads among cattle and dairy workers
The CDC urges precautionary steps amid bird flu spreading among cattle, with confirmed cases among dairy workers. Continue Reading
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01 May 2024
CDC investigates HIV transmission from microneedling facials
An MMWR from the CDC identified individuals who contracted HIV through cosmetic needles after microneedling facials at a New Mexico spa. Continue Reading
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30 Apr 2024
HHS launches national strategy for suicide prevention
The national strategy includes four directions: community-based suicide prevention, treatment and crisis services, surveillance and research, and health equity in prevention. Continue Reading
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29 Apr 2024
Exploring strategies to mitigate physician burnout
Gail Gazelle, MD, discusses factors contributing to physician burnout, mental health stigma across the field, and strategies for addressing burnout. Continue Reading
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26 Apr 2024
New Jersey offers the best mental healthcare for young individuals
An analysis of 2023 data from Mental Health America gave the state the highest final score at 70.79. Continue Reading
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24 Apr 2024
Race-neutral eGFR formula moves black patients up on transplant list
Several years after the NKF and ASN urged the use of an updated eGFR formula, more Black patients in need of a transplant have been added to or moved up on the list. Continue Reading
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19 Apr 2024
Study urges safety standards for PFAS in seafood
A new study urges the establishment of safety standards for forever chemicals (PFAS) in seafood, highlighting potential health risks and the need for regulatory action. Continue Reading
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18 Apr 2024
NIH, NSF fund four Centers for Oceans and Human Health
The centers will use the funding from the two agencies to assess how ocean-related exposures impact human health. Continue Reading
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17 Apr 2024
Acute cardiac events occurred in 22.4% of adults hospitalized for RSV
The data suggests that acute cardiac events, most notably acute heart failure, are common among elderly individuals hospitalized for RSV. Continue Reading
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16 Apr 2024
Exploring 3 common types of viral hepatitis: hepatitis A, B, C
Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of viral hepatitis; however, vaccines and treatments can help mitigate disease spread. Continue Reading
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12 Apr 2024
WHO reports 3,500 global viral hepatitis deaths daily
The WHO’s 2024 Global Hepatitis Report highlights 1.3 million global viral hepatitis deaths annually, accounting for 3,500 daily deaths. Continue Reading
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11 Apr 2024
Patients with long COVID exhibited markers of myeloid inflammation
A study out of the United Kingdom identified multiple plasma protein markers of inflammation linked to long COVID characteristics. Continue Reading
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10 Apr 2024
Mortality in COVID hospitalized patients is 22% higher in rural areas
Across COVID-19 hospitalized patients, all-cause mortality was 22% higher, and readmission rates were 6% higher in rural areas. Continue Reading
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29 Mar 2024
Persistent physical activity is linked to better sleep patterns
A study linked persistent physical activity to lower insomnia risk and a better sleep duration. Continue Reading
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27 Mar 2024
Transplant teams are less likely to accept donor hearts for Black men
An analysis of transplant center teams’ donor heart acceptances revealed that Black men on the wait list had the lowest probability of acceptance. Continue Reading
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22 Mar 2024
The global total fertility rate declined by over 50% from 1950 to 2021
Fertility rates in many countries have declined below replacement and are expected to continue declining. Continue Reading
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21 Mar 2024
CDC issues measles outbreak health advisory, encourages vaccination
The advisory highlights 58 confirmed measles cases across 17 US jurisdictions in 2024. Continue Reading
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15 Mar 2024
Have US maternal mortality rates actually doubled?
An analysis in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests the answer is no, attributing rising rates to increased surveillance. Continue Reading
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14 Mar 2024
NIH launches long COVID clinical trial for nervous system dysfunction
The NIH’s RECOVER-AUTONOMIC clinical trials explore treatments for autonomic nervous system dysfunction caused by long COVID. Continue Reading
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13 Mar 2024
Childhood cancer survivors don’t adhere to surveillance guidelines
Less than 55% of childhood cancer survivors adhere to surveillance guidelines for colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and cardiomyopathy. Continue Reading
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11 Mar 2024
Short sleep duration linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes
A JAMA Network Open study reported that chronic short sleep duration correlated with an increased probability of a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Continue Reading
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06 Mar 2024
CDC’s Updated COVID Isolation Guidelines: Realistic or Relaxed?
The CDC’s announcement of its updated COVID-19 isolation guidelines has been met with conflicting responses; some deem the updates realistic, while others say it is too relaxed. Continue Reading
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01 Mar 2024
Daily Cannabis Smoking Linked to 25% Greater Heart Attack Risk
Data from an observational study revealed that consuming cannabis by smoking regularly increased the risk of heart attack and stroke. Continue Reading
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29 Feb 2024
New Resident Training Schedule Reduces Burnout, Improves Wellness
A 4+4 block schedule among internal medicine residents was linked to lower burnout rates and improved self-reported outcomes than a 4+1 schedule. Continue Reading
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28 Feb 2024
Early Prenatal Mental Health Interventions Reduce Postpartum Risks
An NIH-funded study based in Pakistan revealed that prenatal mental health counseling reduced postpartum depression and anxiety risk. Continue Reading
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27 Feb 2024
Exploring the Surge of Early-Onset Stomach Cancer
The uptick in stomach cancer cases in individuals under 50 challenges conventional cancer trends, stressing the need for deeper research and understanding. Continue Reading
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23 Feb 2024
Multiple Unsafe Sleep Factors Characterize SIDS Incidences
Across surface sharing and non-sharing infants, SIDS incidences included multiple unsafe sleep factors, identifying a need for robust education. Continue Reading
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21 Feb 2024
Alabama Supreme Court Ruling Compromises Access to IVF
A new Alabama Supreme Court ruling characterizes frozen IVF embryos as children, presenting barriers for IVF clinics. Continue Reading
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20 Feb 2024
How Do Social Isolation and Loneliness Impact Healthcare Outcomes?
As the epidemic of social isolation and loneliness increases globally, especially in the US, understanding the healthcare impacts of these conditions is critical. Continue Reading
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15 Feb 2024
Climate Change Exacerbates Poor Air Quality, Risking Human Health
Despite national efforts to improve air quality, climate change has continually compromised air quality and risked human health. Continue Reading
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13 Feb 2024
Plant-Based Diet Yields Better Outcomes in Prostate Cancer Survivors
A prospective cohort study revealed that prostate cancer survivors who eat more plant-based foods have improved quality of life outcomes, including sexual function. Continue Reading
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12 Feb 2024
Is Male Birth Control the Answer to the Unplanned Pregnancy Epidemic?
Considering half of all global pregnancies are unplanned, researchers are continuously exploring contraceptive options, including hormonal and non-hormonal male birth control. Continue Reading
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09 Feb 2024
47% of Trans Individuals Considered Moving Due to State Laws
An early insights report from a 2022 US Trans survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality revealed that state laws drove 47% of trans people to consider moving. Continue Reading
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06 Feb 2024
Women with PCOS Are Almost 8.5 Times More Likely to Attempt Suicide
Even after adjusting for multiple factors, including psychiatric comorbid conditions, women with PCOS are at a significantly higher risk of attempted suicide. Continue Reading
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02 Feb 2024
Preterm and Early-Term Birth Rates in the US Increased Since 2014
An analysis of the births by gestational age indicated a shift toward shorter gestational age as the rates of preterm and early-term births increased since 2014. Continue Reading
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01 Feb 2024
CDC Data Raises Concerns About Rising Syphilis Cases
A CDC analysis of STI data from 2022 prompts concerns about rising syphilis cases despite chlamydia cases stabilizing and gonorrhea cases declining over the past year. Continue Reading
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30 Jan 2024
Discontinued Treatment for GHD Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease
Human growth hormone injections derived from cadaver pituitary glands were linked to non-contagious, transmittable Alzheimer’s disease in patients with GHD. Continue Reading
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26 Jan 2024
CBT Reduced Frontal and Parietal Activity in Children with Anxiety
An NIH study tracking brain activity in children with anxiety revealed that cognitive behavioral therapy reduced previously elevated activity in the frontal and parietal lobes. Continue Reading
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24 Jan 2024
CDC States JN.1 Accounts for Nearly 90% of Circulating COVID Variants
A recent CDC update on respiratory viruses, including influenza and COVID-19, revealed that JN.1 is the most prevalent COVID variant. Continue Reading
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18 Jan 2024
Four States Identify Measles Outbreak This Year
Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia reported measles cases in the past month, indicating concerns about vaccination uptake. Continue Reading
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16 Jan 2024
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Linked to 7.9% Greater CVD Risk
An epic research study evaluating men with low testosterone on hormone replacement therapy links this treatment to an increased CVD risk. Continue Reading
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12 Jan 2024
Almost 10% of Adolescents Use Non-Prescription Weight Loss Products
A meta-analysis published in JAMA Network Open revealed that nearly 10% of adolescents, with a higher rate among girls, use non-prescribed weight loss products. Continue Reading
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05 Jan 2024
Researchers Identify Potential Cause of SIDS: Convulsive Seizures
A study analyzing videos from nanny cams and baby monitors reveals that convulsive seizures may contribute to SIDS. Continue Reading
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04 Jan 2024
Reckitt Recalls Nutramigen Infant Formula for Bacterial Contamination
Another type of infant formula, Nutramigen Powder, is being recalled due to potential bacterial contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii. Continue Reading
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03 Jan 2024
Adding Salt to Food Increases CKD Risk by 4–11%
A study published in JAMA Network Open evaluating self-reported salt intake revealed that adding salt to food could increase CKD risk by 4–11%. Continue Reading
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27 Dec 2023
Exploring 6 Common Types of Hypertensive Disorders, Disease Management
Hypertensive disorders, including essential, secondary, gestational, white coat, and malignant hypertension and preeclampsia, significantly impact human health outcomes. Continue Reading
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21 Dec 2023
COVID Rates Surge Amidst the Holiday Season
National wastewater data reveals very high COVID-19 viral activity in the US amidst the holiday season. Continue Reading
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15 Dec 2023
Researchers Identify the Cause of Morning Sickness
Researchers in Nature identified a hormonal basis for morning sickness, providing a potential way to assess risk. Continue Reading
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14 Dec 2023
Abortion Rights on the Line Again as SCOTUS Hears Mifepristone Case
This week, SCOTUS announced it would hear the mifepristone case and make a final ruling on access to the abortion pill. Continue Reading
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13 Dec 2023
Navigating Prostate Cancer: Insights, Advances, and Personalized Care
Understanding prostate cancer is crucial to improving early detection and treatment outcomes. Continue Reading
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12 Dec 2023
Texas Supreme Court Overturns Abortion Decision from Lower Court
The Texas Supreme Court overturned the abortion decision from the lower court granting Kate Cox an abortion for her fatal pregnancy. Continue Reading
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05 Dec 2023
Researchers Identify Potential Cause of Hypertension-Induced Dementia
A study on mouse models linked high IL-17 levels induced by hypertension to cognitive impairment. Continue Reading
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04 Dec 2023
Leveraging Predictive Analytics for Effective Disease Management
Predictive analytics transforms disease management by enabling early detection, personalized treatment, and optimized resource allocation in healthcare. Continue Reading
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01 Dec 2023
Overdose Deaths Increased in Postpartum Women from 2018 to 2021
An NIDA-funded study in JAMA Psychiatry revealed that overdose deaths in postpartum women increased between 2018 and 2021. Continue Reading
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21 Nov 2023
March of Dimes Gives US D+ Premature Birth Grade on 2023 Report Card
On its 2023 maternal health report card, March of Dimes gave the US a D+ for premature births, noting southern states had worse scores. Continue Reading
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15 Nov 2023
NIH Researchers Identify Sleep Deficiency as a T2D Risk Factor
Results from an NIH-funded study revealed that chronic insufficient sleep is a modifiable T2D risk factor in women. Continue Reading
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08 Nov 2023
November 2023 Elections Mark 3 Big Wins for Abortion Rights
Votes in Ohio, Kentucky, and Virginia may help bolster abortion rights in those states. Continue Reading
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03 Nov 2023
ASRM Redefines Infertility, Adding Sexual Orientation, Relationships
A 2023 committee opinion by the ASRM updated the definition of fertility to include individuals of varying sexual orientations or relationship status. Continue Reading
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02 Nov 2023
CDC Reports That Infant Mortality Rates Rose 3% from 2021 to 2022
Marking the first year-to-year increase since 2001–2002, CDC data revealed that infant mortality rates increased by 3% from 2021 to 2022. Continue Reading
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01 Nov 2023
Heat-Related CV Deaths to Greatly Impact Black and Elderly Communities
An NIH study evaluating extreme heat anticipated that changing temperatures will result in cardiovascular (CV) deaths between 2036 and 2065. Continue Reading
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27 Oct 2023
Researchers Develop a Blood Test to Diagnose Bipolar Disorder
University of Cambridge researchers hypothesize that this blood test will minimize the misdiagnosis of BPD as MDD. Continue Reading
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24 Oct 2023
Tuberculosis Cord-Like Bacterial Aggregates Revealed in Breakthrough Study
Understanding cord-like TB bacteria aids treatments and combats antibiotic resistance. Continue Reading
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23 Oct 2023
Red Meat Consumption Increased T2D Risk by over 50%
A cohort study analyzing red meat intake supports previous claims that link increased red meat consumption to T2D. Continue Reading
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20 Oct 2023
Researchers Develop Largest Atlas of Human Brain Cells
The atlas, published as a package in Science, compiles information from 24 papers, providing insight into the human mind. Continue Reading
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19 Oct 2023
Study Reveals Adult ADHD Nearly Triples the Risk of Dementia
Data analysis from a national birth cohort study noted that adult ADHD increased the risk of dementia later in life. Continue Reading
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18 Oct 2023
Reduced Serotonin Levels in Long COVID Patients Impair Cognition
Scientists discovered serotonin depletion in long COVID patients, which may be the root of some of the condition’s cognitive symptoms. Continue Reading
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12 Oct 2023
Obesity Before/During Pregnancy Linked to Cardiovascular Risk
NIH-funded research indicates that being overweight or obese before or during early pregnancy doubles the risk of gestational diabetes and pregnancy complications. Continue Reading
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06 Oct 2023
Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis at 30 Reduces Life Expectancy by 14 Years
The study implied that every decade earlier a patient is diagnosed correlates to a 3- or 4-year decline in life expectancy. Continue Reading
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05 Oct 2023
NIH-Funded Study Links Seizure Activity in the Amygdala to SUDEP
Researchers hypothesize that the seizure activity in the amygdala causes breathing failure in patients with postictal apnea, leading to SUDEP. Continue Reading
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04 Oct 2023
Loneliness Linked to 37% Increase in Parkinson’s Disease Risk
A cohort study of nearly 500,000 participants independently linked loneliness to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Continue Reading
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03 Oct 2023
Exploring the Economic Toll of Chronic, Infectious Diseases in the US
In the United States, chronic and infectious diseases strain healthcare, productivity, and small businesses, costing trillions annually. Continue Reading
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29 Sep 2023
Maternal Stress and Prenatal COVID Status Impact Infant Attention Span
A study of 167 pregnant mothers and their children assessed the impact of stress and COVID-19 on neurodevelopment and socioemotional function. Continue Reading
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28 Sep 2023
Healthcare Workers Are at a 32% Greater Risk of Suicide
Compared to non-healthcare workers, healthcare workers, including nurses, technicians, and more, have an elevated risk of suicide. Continue Reading
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22 Sep 2023
80% of People with Hypertension Receive Inadequate Treatment
In a recent report, the WHO estimated that over 75 million deaths could be averted if these treatment gaps are addressed. Continue Reading
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20 Sep 2023
NIH Study Identifies Tools for Effective PCOS Diagnosis
A longitudinal study using 25 years of data determined that AI and ML could effectively identify biomarkers for PCOS. Continue Reading
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19 Sep 2023
Understanding the Link Between Air Pollution and Respiratory Illnesses
Understanding the link between air pollution and respiratory illness is vital to protecting public health and reducing preventable disease burdens. Continue Reading
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18 Sep 2023
What Is Comprehensive Reproductive Psychiatry and Mental Healthcare?
Sarah Oreck, MD, CEO and co-founder of Mavida Health, provides insight into the emerging field of reproductive psychiatry. Continue Reading
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12 Sep 2023
Evaluating Tenets of Comprehensive Maternal Mental Healthcare
These components may improve maternal mental health and outcomes across the United States. Continue Reading
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08 Sep 2023
31% of Men Worldwide Have Genital Human Papillomavirus
A systemic review and meta-analysis on the global epidemiology of HPV in men revealed that one-third of men have genital HPV. Continue Reading
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07 Sep 2023
NIH Researchers Investigate Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae Strain
Researchers have evaluated classical Klebsiella pneumoniae (cKp), hypervirulent Kp, and Kp with hypervirulent and multi-drug resistant properties. Continue Reading