Here are what the editors at HealthDay consider to be the most important developments in Internal Medicine for May 2015. This roundup includes the latest research news from journal articles, as well as the FDA approvals and regulatory changes that are the most likely to affect clinical practice.
Greater Benefit for Early Antiretroviral Tx Initiation in HIV
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Patients with HIV should start antiretroviral therapy as soon as they’re diagnosed, according to research findings from the Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Treatment (START) study, the first large-scale randomized clinical trial to establish that earlier antiretroviral treatment benefits all HIV-infected individuals.
AMA: Physicians Driving the Slowing of Health Care Costs
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Low physician spending is contributing to an overall slowing of health care costs, according to a viewpoint piece published by the American Medical Association (AMA).
Celecoxib Safe, Effective for Brucellosis-Associated Depression
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Celecoxib seems safe and effective for treatment of depression due to acute brucellosis, according to a study published online May 26 in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics.
Insulin Resistance Not Linked to Post-Adolescent Acne
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Insulin resistance does not appear to be a significant factor in post-adolescent acne, according to a study published in the June issue of the International Journal of Dermatology.
AMD Predicts Poorer Survival in Older Women
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) predicts poorer survival, especially among women aged 80 years or older, according to a study published in the May issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Catheterization Increasing for Seniors With STEMI
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — From 1999 to 2009 there was a decrease in the proportion of older adults with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) who did not undergo cardiac catheterization, according to a study published in the May issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Fruit, Vegetable Intake Linked to Hip Fracture
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Fruit and vegetable intake is associated with hip fracture, with a higher rate of hip fracture for intake below five servings/day, according to a study published in the June issue of the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.
Score IDs Patients With Upper Extremity DVT at Low Risk
FRIDAY, May 29, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with upper-extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT), six easily available factors can be used to create a score that identifies those at low risk of adverse events during the first week, according to a study published online May 18 in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis.
FDA: Two Drugs Approved for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Two new therapies to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) accompanied by diarrhea in adults have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
U.S. Organ Donation Rates Highest in Midwest
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — In the United States, organ donor rates are highest in the Midwest and lowest in New York state, according to a report published online May 28 in the American Journal of Transplantation.
Metformin Linked With Lower Open-Angle Glaucoma Risk
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Metformin is associated with a lower risk of developing open-angle glaucoma (OAG), according to a study published online May 28 in JAMA Ophthalmology.
14.9 Million New Cancer Cases Worldwide in 2013
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Between 1990 and 2013, the proportion of deaths worldwide caused by cancer rose from 12 to 15 percent. During that time, years of healthy life lost to cancer increased 29 percent, according to data on 28 types of cancer in 188 countries published online May 28 in JAMA Oncology.
Even Moderate BMI Reduction Could Ease A-Fib Burden
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Incremental increases in body mass index (BMI) are associated with excess risk of incident, postoperative, and post-ablation atrial fibrillation (AF), according to a review published online May 27 in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology.
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Vegan Diet Tied to Weight Loss, Improved Neuropathy in DM
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A vegan diet might help patients with diabetic neuropathy lose weight and find some pain relief, a small pilot study suggests. The findings were published online May 26 in Nutrition & Diabetes.
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Population-Based FIT Screening Can Reduce CRC Mortality
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Population-based fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) screening in adults aged 50 to 69 years can reduce colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality, according to a study published online May 20 in Cancer.
Specific Trans Fatty Acids Linked With Incident Diabetes
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Among older adults, specific trans fatty acids (TFAs) may be associated with diabetes mellitus (DM), according to a study published in the June issue of Diabetes Care.
Higher Disease Burden for Patients With Fibromyalgia
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Patients with fibromyalgia (FM) have a higher disease burden than those with chronic widespread pain (CWP), according to research published online May 16 in Pain Practice.
House Call Primary Care Practices Vary Substantially
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Home-based primary care practices vary in terms of size and approaches to quality of care assessment, according to a study published in the May issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Post-CABG Predictors of Stroke Identified for Diabetes Patients
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with diabetes mellitus undergoing multivessel coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), predictors of stroke include previous stroke, warfarin use, and surgery outside the United States or Canada, according to research published in the May 15 issue of The American Journal of Cardiology.
Primary Androgen Deprivation Tx May Raise DM Risk by 60 Percent
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Primary androgen deprivation therapy increases diabetes risk, particularly in men under 70 years of age, according to research published in the June issue of The Journal of Urology.
Smartphone Electrocardiograms Deemed Equivalent to Standard
THURSDAY, May 28, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Smartphone electrocardiogram (ECG) accurately detects baseline intervals, atrial rate, and rhythm, according to a study published in the May issue of the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology.
More Evidence Supports Higher Fiber Intake to Lower DM Risk
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — More evidence that a high fiber diet helps protect against type 2 diabetes has been presented in research published online May 26 in Diabetologia.
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Pre-Op β-Blockers May Work Against Heart-Healthy Patients
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — While patients with three or four heart risk factors should still be given a β-blocker before surgery, those with no risk for heart disease shouldn’t get the medication as it might lower the odds of a good outcome, according to a report published online May 27 in JAMA Surgery.
Electrical Acupoint Stimulation Beneficial for Heroin Addicts
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Transcutaneous electric acupoint stimulation (TEAS) is associated with alleviation of withdrawal syndrome in heroin addicts, according to a study published in the May issue of Pain Medicine.
Soy Supplements Deemed Ineffective in Asthma Care
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Despite hints from prior research that soy supplements might help asthma patients breathe easier, a new study indicates the nutrient has no beneficial effect on lung function. The findings were published in the May 26 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Moderate Alcohol Intake May Harm Elderly Hearts
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Moderate drinking may harm heart health in the elderly, and women appear to be at greater risk for this alcohol-related heart damage than men, according to research published online May 26 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging.
Review: Fracture Risk Up With Subclinical Hyperthyroidism
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Subclinical hyperthyroidism ups risk for hip and other fractures, according to a review published in the May 26 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Hospice May Help Surviving Spouse Cope With Death
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Hospice care may help a surviving spouse better cope with depression following the death of a loved one, according to a study published online May 26 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Fat, Protein, Glycemic Index All Modify Postprandial Glycemia
WEDNESDAY, May 27, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Dietary fat, protein, and glycemic index (GI) modify postprandial glycemia in type 1 diabetes, according to a review published in the June issue of Diabetes Care.
CDC: U.S. Traveler Returning From Liberia Dies of Lassa Fever
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A man who returned to the United States after traveling to Liberia in West Africa has died of Lassa fever, federal health officials have reported.
Antiatherosclerotic Activity ID’d for MTX, Adalimumab in RA
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Potential mechanisms for the antiatherosclerotic activity of methotrexate (MTX) and adalimumab in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been identified, according to a study published in the May issue of Arthritis & Rheumatology.
Caution Urged When Using EHR Shortcut Features
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Caution should be exercised with use of electronic health record (EHR) documentation short cuts, according to a report published in Medical Economics.
Diet and Exercise May Not Be Enough to Ward Off Sarcopenia
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — It’s not clear whether diet and exercise can prevent muscle loss as people age, according to a new review published online May 11 in Clinical Interventions in Aging.
Gender-Based Differences in Glycemic Control in T2DM
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with type 2 diabetes, there are gender-based differences in glycemic control and hypoglycemia after insulin treatment, according to research published in the June issue of Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
DXA Screening Found to Be Underused and Overused
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Too few women at high risk for osteoporosis are being tested for the condition, while too many women at low risk are being screened, according to new research published online May 19 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.
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Increasing Omega-3 Intake May Boost Cognitive Flexibility
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Consuming more omega-3 fatty acids may benefit patients at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study published online May 21 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience.
CDC: Low-Income Southerners at Highest Risk of Vision Loss
TUESDAY, May 26, 2015 (HealthDay News) — New U.S. government research connects severe vision loss with poverty, and reveals that people in the southern part of the country have the highest prevalence of both poverty and severe vision loss. The findings were published in the May 22 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
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CDC: Raw Tuna Suspected As Salmonella Source in Outbreak
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Raw tuna is suspected as the source of a Salmonella outbreak that has infected 53 people in nine states, according to U.S. health officials.
ACOG Urges Expedited Partner Therapy for Some STIs
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, whose partners are unable or unwilling to seek care, expedited partner therapy can be used to prevent reinfection, according to a Committee Opinion published in the June issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
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Large Practices Focused on Small Selection of EHR Products
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Sixty percent of clinicians in practices with 26 or more clinicians report use of one of 10 electronic health record (EHR) products, according to a report published by AmericanEHR Partners.
Front Desk Staff Has Key Role in Managing Practice Cash Flow
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Three steps that can be implemented by front desk staff can help increase practices’ cash flow, according to an article published in Medical Economics.
AMA: Avoiding Distress in Medical School
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Understanding the key drivers underlying medical students’ distress can help address the issues and enhance student well-being, according to an article published by the American Medical Association.
Beloranib Safe, Efficacious for Weight Loss in Obesity
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Beloranib seems efficacious and safe for weight loss in obese patients, according to a study published in the June issue of Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
CDC: Smoking Rates on Decline in Many States
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Cigarette smoking continues to decline in about half of American states, according to the latest U.S. government estimates. The new report was published in the May 22 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
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Resistance Training Effects Vary Per Genetic Profiles
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Resistance training seems to be most effective for people with a low genetic risk for a high body mass index, according to a study published online April 30 in the International Journal of Obesity.
Personalized Assessments During Eye Visits Don’t Lower HbA1c
FRIDAY, May 22, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with diabetes, personalized education and diabetes risk assessments performed during retinal ophthalmologic visits do not result in improved glycemic control, according to a study published online May 21 in JAMA Ophthalmology.
CDC Warns Against ‘Dangerous Breath Holding’ in Water
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — U.S. health officials are warning about accidental drownings from underwater breath-holding games and exercises.
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Caffeine Intake Linked to Lower Risk of Erectile Dysfunction
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Men who consume more caffeine each day may have a lower risk of erectile dysfunction, according to a new study published online April 28 in PLOS One.
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Anxiety Reported by More Than 4 Million Working Americans
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A new study finds that 4.3 million Americans with full-time jobs had an anxiety disorder in the past year. That number represents 3.7 percent of full-time workers aged 18 and older, according to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Not Enough Younger, High-Risk Americans Getting Colonoscopies
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A majority of people with a family history of colorectal cancer (CRC) are not getting screened for the disease early enough, according to a new study. The research was published online May 21 in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Preventing Chronic Disease.
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Over One-Third of Americans Have Metabolic Syndrome
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — More than one-third of U.S. adults have metabolic syndrome, according to a research letter published in the May 19 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
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Motorcycle Deaths Down in U.S. for Second Straight Year
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Motorcyclist deaths in the United States dropped for the second straight year in 2014, but they are still higher than they were a decade ago, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
Proper Analysis Over Intuition for Avoiding Improper Antibiotic Use
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Misdiagnosis often leads to improper antibiotic use in hospitals, according to a study published online May 18 in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, the journal of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America.
History of Depression May Raise Parkinson’s Risk
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Patients with a history of depression seem to have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, according to new research published online May 20 in Neurology.
Support Groups for At-Home Walking Benefit PAD Patients
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Support groups that encourage walking exercises at home can improve the mobility of patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), according to a study published online May 20 in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
Novel Algorithm Can Classify Chronic Rhinosinusitis
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A novel scoring system and algorithm can be used to classify eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS) by disease severity, according to a study published online May 6 in Allergy.
CV Autonomic Neuropathy Predicts Urological Issues
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For men with type 1 diabetes, cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy is associated with erectile dysfunction and/or lower urinary tract symptoms, according to a study published in the June issue of The Journal of Urology.
Gender Differences in Receipt of End-of-Life Care
THURSDAY, May 21, 2015 (HealthDay News) — There are gender differences in receipt of end-of-life (EoL) care among terminally ill cancer patients, with male patients more likely to receive intensive care unit (ICU) care, according to a study published online May 14 in Cancer.
Fixed-Course Antibiotics Good for Intraabdominal Infection
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with complicated intraabdominal infection, outcomes are similar for fixed-duration antibiotic therapy and antibiotic therapy that is extended until symptom resolution, according to a study published in the May 21 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Enoxaparin Prevents VTEs in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC), enoxaparin is effective for prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolic events (VTEs), according to a study published online May 18 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Statins, Fibrates Linked to 30% Lower Stroke Risk in Elderly
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Older patients taking statins or fibrates saw their risk of stroke over almost a decade decline by about one-third, according to a report published online May 19 in The BMJ.
High-Value Care Advice Provided for Cancer Screening
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — High-value care advice has been provided for screening for five common types of cancer. The guidelines were published in the May 19 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Adherence to Mediterranean Diet Not Linked to Risk of RA
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Adherence to a Mediterranean diet is not associated with incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in U.S. women, according to a study published in the May issue of Arthritis Care & Research.
Recommendations Developed for Responding to ICU Tx Requests
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Multisociety recommendations have been developed to help physicians respond to requests for potentially inappropriate treatments in intensive care units. The policy statement was published online May 15 in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
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Changes Observed in HbA1c During Ramadan
WEDNESDAY, May 20, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with type 2 diabetes, during Ramadan, the greatest change among metabolic parameters is seen for glycemia, according to a study published online May 13 in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation.
Oncologist Recs Plus Motivation Package Increases Exercise
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For breast and colorectal cancer survivors, the level of exercise participation is significantly increased for those receiving an oncologist’s exercise recommendations with an exercise motivation package, according to a study published online May 12 in Cancer.
Meds Offer Slight Symptom Relief in Overactive Bladder
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For women with overactive bladder, medications delivered as a daily dose correlate with small reductions in urge incontinence episodes and voiding, according to a review published online May 6 in Obstetrics & Gynecology.
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Washington D.C. Nabs Highest American Fitness Index Ranking
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Washington, D.C, is the fittest of the 50 largest cities in the United States, followed by Minneapolis-St. Paul and San Diego, according to the eighth annual American Fitness Index (AFI) rankings from the American College of Sports Medicine and the Anthem Foundation.
Pain Med Rx + Medical Cannabis Doesn’t Seem to Up Abuse Risk
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Medical marijuana users don’t appear to increase their risk for drug or alcohol abuse if they also take prescription pain medications (PPMs), according to research published in the May issue of the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.
Shift Work Tied to Poor Health Indicators, Metabolic Syndrome
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Shift work may be hazardous to metabolic health, according to research published online May 17 in Sleep Health, the journal of the National Sleep Foundation.
Admission Not Necessary for Many ER Patients With Chest Pain
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Adverse cardiac events are rare among adult patients presenting with chest pain with two negative findings for serial biomarkers, nonconcerning vital signs, and nonischemic electrocardiographic findings, according to research published online May 18 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Mortality, Stroke Risks Vary Widely After Carotid Stenting
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The risk of death or stroke after carotid artery stenting varies widely among U.S. hospitals, with the odds four times higher at some medical centers, new research suggests. The study appears in the May issue of JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.
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Most Distinctive Causes of Death Mapped by U.S. State
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The most distinctive causes of death for each U.S. state have been mapped in a report published online May 14 in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Preventing Chronic Disease.
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Not All With Dense Breasts Have High Interval Cancer Risk
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Not all women with high breast density have high risk of interval cancer, according to a study published in the May 19 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Glucose Variation Impacts Coronary Plaque Vulnerability
TUESDAY, May 19, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) pretreated with lipid-lowering therapy, daily glucose fluctuation may affect coronary plaque vulnerability, according to a study published in the May issue of JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.
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Tips Provided for Doctors Who Want to Move to Private Practice
MONDAY, May 18, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For physicians who want to transition to private practice, several factors need consideration, including finances, legal matters, and insurance, according to an article published in Medical Economics.
FDA: Watch for Ketoacidosis With SGLT2 Inhibitors
MONDAY, May 18, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about the risk of ketoacidosis with use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.
AAFP Urges CMS to Safeguard Continuity of Care for Seniors
MONDAY, May 18, 2015 (HealthDay News) — In a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and other organizations emphasize the importance of encouraging Medicare beneficiaries to engage with their primary care physician in an annual wellness visit.
Early Insulin Initiation Beneficial in Seniors With T2DM
MONDAY, May 18, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For older Medicare beneficiaries with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), early insulin initiation offers clinical benefit, according to a study published online May 8 in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Physical Activity Boosts Longevity in Older Men
FRIDAY, May 15, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A little exercise late in life may help men live longer, new research from Norway suggests. The study appears online May 14 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Iron Deficiency Seems to Affect Many Metabolic Pathways
FRIDAY, May 15, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For young women with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), iron therapy is associated with increases in serum folate, vitamin B12, and with other biochemical parameters, according to a study published online May 11 in the International Journal of Laboratory Hematology.
Complications for 2.2 Percent After Electrophysiology Procedure
FRIDAY, May 15, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The incidence of complications after electrophysiology (EP) procedures is about 2.2 percent, according to a study published in the May issue of the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology.
Short Time to Eligibility for ART in Young HIV-Infected Adults
FRIDAY, May 15, 2015 (HealthDay News) — More than one-third of young HIV-infected adults with CD4 cell count >500 cells/µl became eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) at a CD4 cell count of <350 cells/µl over a median of two years, according to a study published online May 11 in HIV Medicine.
Tramadol-Related ER Visits Up 2005 to 2011
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — There was a sharp rise in the number of emergency department visits involving tramadol between 2005 and 2011, two new government reports show.
Nearly 400 HIV-Positive Potential Organ Donors in U.S.
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Nearly 400 HIV-positive potential organ donors in the United States could donate organs each year to HIV-positive people waiting for transplants, according to a new study published online May 14 in the American Journal of Transplantation.
CDC: Some Progress Seen in Foodborne Illness
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The incidence of reported infections with Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157 and a common strain of Salmonella bacteria have decreased, while infections with other types of Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Vibrio have increased, according to research published in the May 15 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
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Study Considers Antibiotics-First Approach to Appendicitis
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — An antibiotics-first approach could be considered for specific patients with appendicitis, according to a case vignette published in the May 14 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
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Grip Strength Could Be Useful Indicator of CVD, Mortality Risk
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Testing hand-grip strength could be an inexpensive and simple way of identifying people at increased risk for myocardial infarction, stroke, and premature death, according to a study published online May 13 in The Lancet.
Financial Incentives Effective in Smoking Cessation
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Paying smokers to quit seems to work better than offering them free counseling and nicotine replacement therapy, new research suggests. The report was published online May 13 in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Cognitive Improvements With Active Singing in Dementia
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — An active singing program can improve cognition and life satisfaction among individuals with dementia in an assisted living facility, according to a letter to the editor published in the April issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
ASCO Updates Guidelines for Hepatitis B Screening in Cancer
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Guidelines for hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening among patients with cancer have been updated, according to a special article published online May 11 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Infective Endocarditis Incidence Up in U.S. From 2000 to 2011
THURSDAY, May 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) — From 2000 to 2011 there was an increase in infective endocarditis (IE) incidence in the United States, according to a study published in the May 19 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Depression Tied to Higher Stroke Risk, Even After Remission
WEDNESDAY, May 13, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Depression in older adults appears to significantly increase the risk of a stroke, even after depressive symptoms remit, a new study suggests. The report was published online May 13 in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
ADT for Prostate Cancer Tied to Impaired Cognition
WEDNESDAY, May 13, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Men undergoing androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) to treat prostate cancer may experience impaired cognitive function within the first six months that persists for at least a year, a new study suggests. The report was published online May 11 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
FDA Proposes Lifting Ban on Homosexual Blood Donations
WEDNESDAY, May 13, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Gay and bisexual men who have abstained from sex for one year would be allowed to donate blood in the United States, under a new federal policy unveiled Tuesday.
New Health Care Index Reports Increases in Consumer Costs
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A new Health Care Index shows increases in consumer costs, according to a report published by U.S. News & World Report.
Disc Degeneration Tied to Severe Abdominal Aortic Calcification
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Greater abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) severity, faster AAC progression, and higher mortality are seen for older men with severe disc degeneration, according to a study published in the May issue of Arthritis & Rheumatology.
Guidance Offered to Help Doctors Deal With ‘Dr. Google’
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Good communication is the key to resolving conflicts between the tests and treatment a patient may want based on online searches and those a physician believes are necessary, according to an article published online in Medical Economics.
Comprehensiveness of PCP Care Tied to Costs, Hospitalizations
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Increasing family physician comprehensiveness of care correlates with lower Medicare costs and hospitalizations, according to a study published in the May/June issue of the Annals of Family Medicine.
About 60 Percent of PCI Patients Referred to Cardiac Rehab
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Cardiac rehabilitation referral rates are about 60 percent for U.S. patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), with considerable site-specific variation in rates of referral, according to a study published in the May 19 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Gender Salary Gap for Internal Medicine Program Directors
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Salary disparities exist between male and female internal medicine residency program directors (PDs), according to a study published in the The American Journal of Medicine.
β-Methylphenylethylamine + Exercise Can Cause Stroke
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — β-methylphenylethylamine (BMPEA), which is found in dietary supplements marketed to promote weight loss and improve exercise workouts, combined with exercise can cause hemorrhagic stroke, according to a case report published online May 12 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Nondisclosure Clauses Often Used in Malpractice Settlements
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Nondisclosure clauses are frequently used in malpractice settlement agreements, according to research published online May 11 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Adding Olive Oil, Nuts to Diet Boosts Aging Brain Health
TUESDAY, May 12, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Adding more olive oil or nuts to a Mediterranean diet — one rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grains and low in red meat — may help improve cognitive function with advancing age, a new study suggests. The report was published online May 11 in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Some Childhood Cancer Survivors at Higher Risk of Later Obesity
MONDAY, May 11, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Certain treatments may increase a childhood cancer survivor’s risk of obesity later in life, according to research published online May 11 in Cancer.
Increased Risk of Neuropathy Seen With Celiac Disease
MONDAY, May 11, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Patients with celiac disease are at increased risk for neuropathy, according to a new study published online May 11 in JAMA Neurology.
AMA: Six Traits of Financially Prepared Female Physicians
MONDAY, May 11, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The traits of a financially prepared female physician include having a retirement portfolio that is on track or ahead of schedule for age and career stage, having a liquid emergency fund, and feeling adequately protected in the event of a disability, according to a report published by the American Medical Association (AMA).
Moderate Costs Incurred by Living Kidney Donors
MONDAY, May 11, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Living kidney donors (LKDs) incur moderate costs related to the completion of donation evaluation, according to a study published online May 5 in the American Journal of Transplantation.
FDA Approves Avelox for Treatment of Plague
MONDAY, May 11, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Avelox (moxifloxacin) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday to treat plague, a rare but deadly bacterial infection that can strike the lungs (pneumonic), blood (septicemic), or lymph nodes (bubonic).
Full Adherence to Follow-Up Improves Head/Neck CA Survival
FRIDAY, May 8, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, compliance with posttreatment surveillance (PTS) is associated with survival, according to a study published online May 7 in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery.
Prostate CA Patients on Hormone Tx May Benefit From Statin
FRIDAY, May 8, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Statins may slow the progression of prostate cancer in patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy, according to a study published online May 7 in JAMA Oncology.
PTSD Associated With Premature Senescence
FRIDAY, May 8, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) seems to be associated with premature aging, according to a review published online May 7 in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Pulmonary Med
FRIDAY, May 8, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to diffuse parenchymal lung disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, pulmonary diagnostics, and respiratory infections are included in a special update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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CDC: CA Screening Rates Below Healthy People 2020 Targets
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Screening rates for colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers are below the Healthy People 2020 targets, according to research published in the May 8 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
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CDC: Triglyceride Levels Falling for Americans
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Americans’ levels of triglycerides have dropped significantly in the past decade, according to a May data brief published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).
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Medical Students Want to Focus Learning on Preparing for Future
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Medical students report wanting to learn more about topics that are not currently being taught, including leadership training, health policy, health economics, and experiential learning, according to a report from the American Medical Association (AMA).
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Hematology
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to malignant hematology, transfusion medicine, and bleeding and clotting disorders are included in a special update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Both Omega-3, Placebo Help With Aromatase Inhibitor-Induced Pain
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with early-stage breast cancer treated with aromatase inhibitors (AIs), arthralgia is improved with omega-3 fatty acid (O3-FA) treatment and with placebo, according to a study published online May 4 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Peri-Op Medicine
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to perioperative cardiac medicine, perioperative β-blocker use, perioperative pulmonary medicine, venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, and perioperative medication management are included in a special update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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CDC: C. Difficile Infections Clustered in Northeast
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Infections with Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) have been the most prevalent in the Northeast during the past decade, new U.S. research shows. The findings were published in the May 1 issue of the American Journal of Infection Control.
Pre-ACA, Average Price of PCP Appointment $160 for Uninsured
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For uninsured adults, the average price of a primary care appointment before implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was $160, according to a study published in the May issue of Health Affairs.
CDC: Mortality Rate From Falls Up for U.S. Seniors
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The number of American seniors who die from fall-related injuries has nearly doubled since 2000, according to a May data brief published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics.
More Hospice in Nursing Homes, Associated Costs Are Up
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — More nursing home residents are opting for hospice care, but at an overall increase in Medicare expenditures, according to a new study published in the May 7 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
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CDC: Mortality Rate Declining Among Aging Boomers
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A new study finds mixed results for the health of America’s aging “Baby Boom” generation, with nearly half of people ages 55 to 64 taking a prescription cardiovascular drug and about one in five dealing with diabetes. However, the report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also finds that the overall mortality rate in this age group has gone down over the past decade.
ACA Tied to Nearly 17 Million Gaining Health Coverage
THURSDAY, May 7, 2015 (HealthDay News) — As a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), nearly 17 million previously uninsured Americans now have health coverage, according to a 2013 to 2015 report from the Rand Corporation.
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Rheumatology
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to arthritis treatment, vasculitides, and scleroderma are included in a special update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Strategies Provided for Maximizing Payment
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Physicians should use standard billing practices, including regular statements, to maximize accounts, and know that collection agencies and lawyers can help collect payment when necessary, according to an article published in Medical Economics.
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Proteinuria Level Predicts Renal Outcome in Lupus Nephritis
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Proteinuria levels at 12 months are the best predictor of long-term renal outcome in patients with lupus nephritis, according to a study published in the May issue of Arthritis & Rheumatology.
Full Rx Coverage Ups Outcomes for Patients Discharged After MI
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients discharged from hospital after myocardial infarction, full prescription coverage is associated with improved health outcomes and less resource use, according to research published online May 5 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Gastroenterology
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to esophageal diseases, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, and other topics are included in a special gastroenterology and hepatology update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Non-Toxic Version of C. Difficile May Help Fight Infection
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Researchers may have found a new way to combat Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection: a friendly version of the culprit bacteria itself. Their findings were published in the May 5 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Signal on Telomeres May Point to Cancer Risk Earlier
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For the first time, researchers have identified a pattern of change in DNA that may signal the development of cancer long before a standard diagnosis can be made. The study findings were published in EBioMedicine.
Statins Don’t Reduce Psoriasis Risk
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Statin use does not lower the risk of psoriasis, according to a study published online April 20 in the British Journal of Dermatology.
PCI Beats Medical Tx in Stable Ischemic Heart Disease
WEDNESDAY, May 6, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD) and objective evidence of ischemia, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with lower mortality than medical therapy (MT), according to research published in the May 1 issue of The American Journal of Cardiology.
Digoxin Tied to Higher Mortality Risk in A-Fib, Heart Failure
TUESDAY, May 5, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Use of digoxin may increase the risk of premature death in patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure, according to research published online May 4 in the European Heart Journal.
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Bit of Extra Weight Tied to Better Survival in T2DM
TUESDAY, May 5, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Compared to underweight or normal-weight people with type 2 diabetes, those who are overweight but not obese may be less likely to die over a 10-year study period, according to research published in the May 5 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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USPSTF: Not Enough Data on E-Cigarettes As Cessation Aid
TUESDAY, May 5, 2015 (HealthDay News) — There’s not enough data to decide whether or not electronic cigarettes can help smokers quit, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).
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Review: Fecal Transplants Effective Weapon Against C. Dif
TUESDAY, May 5, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Fecal transplantation appears to be a safe and effective way to combat Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection, according to a new review published in the May 5 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Risk of All Cancers, Specific Cancers Up in Infertile Men
TUESDAY, May 5, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Infertile men have increased risk of all cancers and some individual cancers, according to a study published in the May issue of The Journal of Urology.
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Geriatric Medicine
TUESDAY, May 5, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to overtreatment of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and dementia care, as well as reduction of polypharmacy and adverse drug effects, are included in a special update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Statins Linked to Improved Survival in Lung Cancer
MONDAY, May 4, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Use of statins for a year before a diagnosis of lung cancer is associated with a 12 percent lower risk of cancer-specific mortality, new research suggests. The study findings are published in the May issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
Stroke Patients Don’t Appear to Benefit From EHR Use
MONDAY, May 4, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Stroke patients fare about the same in terms of quality of care and illness progression whether their hospitals have embraced electronic health records or not. These findings were published in the May 12 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
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Five ‘Top Issues’ to Be Discussed at AMA Medical Student Forum
MONDAY, May 4, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Issues that will be at the forefront of the National Medical Student Meeting include vaccinations, health care economics, Medicaid expansion, medical education loans, and the nationwide opioid epidemic, according to a report from the American Medical Association (AMA).
Multiple Repeat Procedures Seem Beneficial in A-Fib Recurrence
MONDAY, May 4, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Most patients experience benefit after three or more catheter ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation (AF), according to a study published in the April issue of the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology.
Intense Exercise May Lower Risk of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
MONDAY, May 4, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A lifetime of vigorous exercise may lower the risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, according to new research published in the May 1 issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
Drop Just One Sugar-Sweetened Drink Daily, Drop DM Risk Greatly
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Exchanging one sugar-sweetened beverage for water or unsweetened coffee or tea daily could lower diabetes risk by up to 25 percent, according to research reported online April 30 in Diabetologia.
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Church-Based Intervention Linked to Healthy Lifestyle Changes
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A pilot church-based diabetes self-management intervention in a Latino community is associated with improvement in lifestyle factors that affect diabetes risk, according to a study published online April 28 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.
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Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes Vary by Time to CPR
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — For patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), outcomes differ by time to first cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first documented rhythm, according to a study published online April 30 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.
2 Minute Walk Each Hour May Reduce Odds of Premature Death
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Getting up and walking for two minutes every hour could help reverse the negative health effects from prolonged sitting, new research suggests. The findings were published online April 30 in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.
Fewer Drunk Driving Events Tied to Boost in U.S. Economy
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — A dramatic drop in the number of alcohol-related car accidents over the past three decades may have helped fuel the U.S. economy, a new study suggests. The findings were published online April 29 in Injury Prevention.
High-Value Research of 2014 Presented for Internal Medicine
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — Articles relating to atrial fibrillation, venous thromboembolism, acute bronchitis, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring for hypertension screening, and guidelines relevant to generalist practice are included in a special update summary published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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Physicians Show Low Adherence to Cervical CA Screening Recs
FRIDAY, May 1, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The indications for cervical cancer screening in asymptomatic average-risk women are described in a best practice advice article published online April 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
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