#Preventive measures for hepatitis

[ajaiswal654321]

How to Protect Yourself from Food Poisoning and Hepatitis A While Travelling

Travel safely with travel & dining tips for protection against food poisoning and hepatitis A. Get hepatitis A vaccination at Miles Pharmacy before your trip.

[feminist-space]

"Physicians have a history of antagonism to the idea that they themselves might present a health risk to their patients. Famously, when Hungarian physician Ignaz Semmelweis originally proposed handwashing as a measure to reduce purpureal fever, he was met with ridicule and ostracized from the profession.

Physicians were also historically reluctant to adopt new practices to protect not only patients but also physicians themselves against infection in the midst of the AIDS epidemic. In 1985, the CDC presented its guidance on workplace transmission, instructing physicians to provide care, “regardless of whether HCWs [health care workers] or patients are known to be infected with HTLV-III/LAV [human T-lymphotropic virus type III/lymphadenopathy-associated virus] or HBV [hepatitis B virus].”

These CDC guidelines offered universal precautions, common-sense, nonstigmatizing, standardized methods to reduce infection. Yet, some physicians bristled at the idea that they need to take simple, universal public health steps to prevent transmission, even in cases in which infectivity is unknown, and instead advocated for a medicalized approach: testing or masking only in cases when a patient is known to be infected. Such an individualized medicalized approach fails to meet the public health needs of the moment."

[batmanisagatewaydrug]

Heyo sex witch, thank you for the work that you do!

I just found out that my most recent sexual partner likely has hepatitis B. The last time we were together was 3-4 months ago, so is there still concern? should I get tested?

also, because we were both 18 and stupid, we didn't really think about protection. what measures can you take to prevent STI transmission in non-penetrative forms of sex?

Thank you for your patience!! unfortunately I was raised Catholic so my knowledge and comfortability talking about this is sorely lacking. Your expertise is much appreciated, though!

hi anon,

I would definitely recommend getting tested. while the majority of cases of hepatitis B will clear up on their own, a small number of infections (about 5%) can become chronic and do long-term damage to your liver. in that case it's definitely better to be safe than sorry even if you weren't having penetrative sex, because hepatitis B can spread through saliva in addition to blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. it's generally considered to be a lower risk than those other forms of transmission, but that's not the same thing as not being a risk at all.

when having forms of sex that don't involve penetration, barriers are still your friend: dental dams for oral sex and gloves or fingers cots for hand-to-genital contact both reduce the spread of bacteria and fluids, as well as limiting skin-to-skin contact for things like herpes that can spread that way.

[asynca]

I hope this question isn't too random. One thing I noticed is people are for some reason are acting like the pandemic is over and just return to normal and no masks. Even though it is still going on and still effects so many people. Why do you think they think its over?

This is probably quite a deep psychological question about the capacity of people to tolerate fear and stress over a long period of time. I could probably answer it in a more professional way than I'm going to.

Several of my friends are doctors. The research that's coming out about how it's likely to shorten the lives of literally everyone who gets it (especially multiple times), about how if we continue to let it rip a huge percentage of the population (20-30%) will end up measurably disabled in some way by it by 2035 is like... this is serious. This is not a 'flu'. We are also discovering several cancers or other disabling conditions are caused by viruses - I worry a lot about the capacity of COVID to ruin lives. It also has a general effect on the brain that causes lower capacity, less ability to regulate emotions and causes aggression. New mental illness is a common long covid symptom.

I do what I can to avoid it. I still wear a n95 mask out in public. I make my wife do it too, even though we are usually the only two people out wearing masks. I don't take my children indoors anywhere public - we go to parks and playgrounds. My daughter has been in a supermarket just once in her life. Is that good for her? Probably not. But it's a darn sight better than a preventable disability (or type 1 diabetes, or hepatitis, or actually dying) at 2 years old. Not to mention the fact I have a baby sub 6 months old and a father who is very ill and would probably die if he got COVID.

COVID is serious. Governments could put in simple useful measures (like mandating better air filtration and circulation in schools and public buildings etc) but they don't. Everyone's just pretending it's over. It's in the 'too hard' basket.

The research and proof is there in peer reviewed journals. People are just ignoring it until they can't ignore it anymore because either they end up disabled themselves, or someone they love does or dies. I don't know what to do anymore, man. I just try and take the precautions I can reasonably take understanding the capacity of this extremely transmissible virus to kill or disable me or the people I love.

[moontyger]

At the direction of the Trump administration, the federal Department of Health and Human Services and its agencies are purging its websites of information and data on a broad array of topics — from adolescent health to LGBTQ+ rights to HIV.

Several webpages from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention with references to LGBTQ+ health were no longer available. A page from the HHS Office for Civil Rights outlining the rights of LGBTQ+ people in health care settings was also gone as of Friday. The website of the National Institutes of Health's Office for Sexual & Gender Minority Research Office disappeared. (Most of these pages could still be viewed through the Internet Archive.)

The changes at the CDC and NIH are examples of a broad push by the Trump administration on gender issues under an executive order titled "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government." That order directs agencies throughout the government to stop offering "gender identity" as a choice on government forms and to end funding of "gender ideology."

Another order, signed by Trump, takes aim at "diversity, equity, and inclusion" across the federal government.

On Friday, however, many pages that did not seem related to "gender" or "diversity" had also been taken down, such as AtlasPlus, an interactive tool from CDC with surveillance data on HIV, viral hepatitis, STDs and TB. Also gone missing: a page with basic information about HIV testing. The CDC's Social Vulnerability Index, a tool that assesses community resilience in the event of natural disaster was also taken down.

"The removal of HIV- and LGBTQ-related resources from the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health agencies is deeply concerning and creates a dangerous gap in scientific information and data to monitor and respond to disease outbreaks," the Infectious Disease Society of America said in a statement. "Access to this information is crucial for infectious diseases and HIV health care professionals who care for people with HIV and members of the LGBTQ community and is critical to efforts to end the HIV epidemic."

Data on adolescent health missing

One striking example of the vanishing information: The CDC pulled down the website that houses data collected by the nation's largest monitoring program on health-related behaviors among high schoolers.

Pages related to the CDC's Division of Adolescent and School Health, which administers the program, were also unavailable.

The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System tracks key metrics on nutrition, physical activity, tobacco and drug use, sexual behavior and other areas. The program was created 35 years ago and includes a national survey that researchers rely on to measure how behaviors influence health and design prevention measures.

"It's the way the nation understands adolescent health," says Stephen Russell, a sociologist at the University of Texas at Austin who studies adolescent health. "The disappearance of that data is stunning."

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Dylan Scott at Vox:

Measles, mumps, and polio are supposed to be diseases of the past. In the early to mid-20th century, scientists developed vaccines that effectively eliminated the risk of anyone getting sick or dying from illnesses that had killed millions over millennia of human history. Vaccines, alongside sanitized water and antibiotics, have marked the epoch of modern medicine. The US was at the cutting edge of eliminating these diseases, which helped propel life expectancy and economic growth in the postwar era. Montana native Maurice Hilleman, the so-called father of modern vaccines, developed flu shots, hepatitis shots, and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in the 1950s and ’60s, which became virtually universally adopted among Americans.

Smallpox, the most common form of which has a 30 percent fatality rate, has been eradicated. Mitch McConnell, Republican titan of the Senate, may be the last major public figure still afflicted by a childhood case of polio, less than a century after it paralyzed a sitting American president. Measles likely infected millions of people annually in the US in the 1800s, although precise estimates from the era are hard to come by. In the early 1990s, thousands of people died from the disease every year. It was still infecting more than half a million and killing hundreds per year on average in the 1950s and ’60s, before the vaccine debuted. Diphtheria, a deadly respiratory infection, killed more than 1,800 people annually between 1936 and 1945 as the vaccine against it was still being rolled out. It has not killed anybody in the United States in decades. The vaccines that made this possible are among the most important achievements in human history. And yet many Americans appear to be losing faith in them, a worrying trend that could accelerate if President-elect Donald Trump succeeds in handing control of the top US health agency into the hands of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the country’s foremost vaccine denier.

Kennedy has spent much of his public career pushing the thoroughly debunked theory of a link between autism and childhood vaccines. He has supported an anti-vaccine group in Samoa, where measles vaccination rates have since fallen off; a 2019 outbreak killed 83 people just a few months after Kennedy visited the island and met with anti-vaccine advocates. He has likewise cast doubt on the safety and efficacy of the Covid vaccines, a position that helped nudge the lifelong Democrat toward Trump. After Kennedy dropped his own presidential campaign this year, he became Trump’s most influential health adviser and last week was nominated by the president-elect to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

[...] As long-accepted, lifesaving public health measures increasingly become politically polarized, routine vaccination rates are rapidly declining in much of the US. In the 2019–2020 school year, three states had less than 90 percent of K–12 students vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella. By the 2023–2024 school year, 14 states had fallen below that threshold. The number of states with more than 95 percent of schoolchildren vaccinated — the preferred level of coverage to prevent outbreaks — dropped from 20 to 11 during that same period.

Smallpox, measles, and polio, which were thought to be eradicated with mass vaccinations, but the anti-vaxxer extremist movement’s rise in influence in recent years threatens to undo decades worth of progress.

[probablyasocialecologist]

Physicians have a history of antagonism to the idea that they themselves might present a health risk to their patients. Famously, when Hungarian physician Ignaz Semmelweis originally proposed handwashing as a measure to reduce purpureal fever, he was met with ridicule and ostracized from the profession. Physicians were also historically reluctant to adopt new practices to protect not only patients but also physicians themselves against infection in the midst of the AIDS epidemic. In 1985, the CDC presented its guidance on workplace transmission, instructing physicians to provide care, “regardless of whether HCWs [health care workers] or patients are known to be infected with HTLV-III/LAV [human T-lymphotropic virus type III/lymphadenopathy-associated virus] or HBV [hepatitis B virus].” These CDC guidelines offered universal precautions, common-sense, nonstigmatizing, standardized methods to reduce infection. Yet, some physicians bristled at the idea that they need to take simple, universal public health steps to prevent transmission, even in cases in which infectivity is unknown, and instead advocated for a medicalized approach: testing or masking only in cases when a patient is known to be infected. Such an individualized medicalized approach fails to meet the public health needs of the moment.

[...]

Masking as a disability accommodation in health care settings should be recognized as part of physicians’ ethical obligations. Access to health care is a particularly fraught issue, as people with disabilities often require more frequent and specialized health care than nondisabled individuals. Physicians have an ethical responsibility to promote the well-being of their patients and do no harm. Wearing a mask on a disabled patient’s request to protect them from contracting COVID-19, which could be deadly for that patient, squarely fits within physicians’ ethical obligation to provide for patients’ care and to ensure their ability to safely partake in health care settings.

[basielaziz]

**Urgent Humanitarian Appeal: Protect Gaza from a Catastrophic Epidemic Outbreak**

The Gaza Strip, already devastated by war and conflict, is on the brink of a new disaster. Thousands of displaced families are living in overcrowded shelters and makeshift camps with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and medical care. In these dire conditions, diseases like hepatitis, polio, and skin infections are beginning to spread rapidly, threatening the lives of the most vulnerable—children, the elderly, and those already weakened by malnutrition and trauma.

This is not just a health crisis waiting to happen; it is already unfolding. Without immediate intervention, Gaza could face an epidemic that would claim countless lives and overwhelm what remains of its fragile healthcare system.

**A Critical Mission to Prevent an Epidemic**

Dr. Aziz Kamel, a renowned health researcher in the field of infectious disease control, is racing against time. He is conducting a pivotal research study on the alarming rise of infectious diseases among Gaza’s displaced populations. His work is vital. He is gathering crucial data that will be submitted to international health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Doctors Without Borders, Action Against Hunger, and the International Medical Association. This research will be the foundation for international intervention, providing the medical community with the necessary insights to combat and contain the spread of these deadly diseases.

Dr. Kamel's findings will serve as a wake-up call to the world, urging global health leaders to take swift and decisive action. But this research—and the lives it aims to save—cannot wait. Immediate funding is needed to complete this study and provide life-saving aid to the people of Gaza.

**The Human Toll of Inaction**

The people of Gaza are not just numbers; they are human beings—parents who have already lost their homes, children who face a future defined by suffering, elderly who have seen too much tragedy. These people are not just victims of war; they are now at the mercy of diseases that can be prevented. The spread of hepatitis, polio, and skin diseases is not just a health issue; it is a humanitarian catastrophe.

Imagine being a parent in a crowded camp, watching your child fall ill, knowing there is no medicine, no clean water, no escape. Imagine the fear of seeing entire families wiped out by preventable diseases, all because the world did not act in time.

This is the reality facing Gaza today. And we cannot afford to wait.

**The Science Speaks Clearly: Time is Running Out**

Scientific data has shown that in crisis zones like Gaza, the spread of infectious diseases is swift and deadly. Overcrowded conditions, poor hygiene, and lack of medical infrastructure create the perfect storm for epidemics. Diseases like polio, which can cause lifelong paralysis, and hepatitis, which leads to liver failure, are particularly dangerous in such environments. Skin infections, while often overlooked, can become life-threatening in these unsanitary conditions.

Dr. Kamel’s research will provide real-time analysis of these disease patterns, enabling global health organizations to intervene with targeted medical and preventive measures. But without your help, this research may never reach the hands of those who can stop this disaster.

**How You Can Make a Difference**

Your donation will directly support Dr. Kamel’s life-saving research and fund emergency medical supplies, hygiene kits, and vaccination efforts. This is not just about stopping an outbreak; it is about giving hope and health back to a population that has suffered too much already.

Every moment we delay is a moment that brings Gaza closer to a full-scale epidemic. Every donation, every act of generosity, is a step toward saving lives. The people of Gaza need more than words; they need action. They need you.

**Act Now. Donate Today. Save Lives.**

[jcsmicasereports]

 Transcatheter arterial Embolization of the common hepatic artery for pseudoaneurysm after a laparoscopic-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy: A case report by Yongxiang Li in Journal of Clinical Case Reports Medical Images and Health Sciences

Introduction

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is the main procedure for some surgeries related to the pancreas. Due to the advance of the surgical technology in recent two decades, mortality decreased considerably [1]. However, the morbidity rate for the major complication after PD remains high [2]. In the various complications, postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH) is a fatal complication, which is linked with 11%−38% of the overall mortalities [3−6]. According to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery [7], late PPH is caused by a ruptured pseudoaneurysm. Once the pseudoaneurysm ruptures, laparotomy and endovascular intervention are the main treatment to be done. Here we report the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of a case of massive hemorrhage in the common hepatic artery (CHA) for pseudoaneurysm after PD.

Case report

A 48-year-old male patient underwent a modified Child PD for the malignant tumor of the descending duodenum. The gastroscope and abdominal enhanced computed tomography (CT) in the preoperative examinations are displayed in Fig. 1. The related index and laboratory values of the patients showed no abnormal outcomes. Standard modified Child PD was performed after excluding the surgical contraindications. No adverse events occurred during the operation. Antibiotic prophylaxis was administered in the postoperative treatment. On postoperative day (POD) 2, the patient suffered from fever and abdominal pain. Persistent peritoneal lavage and drainage were conducted to prevent anastomotic leakage. On POD 8, the continuous drainage stopped because of disappearing abdominal pain. On POD 10, the patient had a sudden abdominal pain and showed 50 mL loss of blood from the drain of cholangiojejunostomy. Hemoglobin concentration decreased to 85 g/L, which had dropped by 45 g/L compared to the last inspection. At the same time, the amylase level measured in the intra-abdominal drainage fluid was 1480u/L. In terms of diagnosis, pancreatic fistula and intra-abdominal bleeding were considered. Conservative treatment, including fluid infusion, use of hemostatic agents, and blood transfusion, was used for this patient. Then, the patient’s condition was stabilized gradually. Abdominal CT was performed on the POD 19, which revealed the existence of bloody fluid collection around the perihepatic area (Fig. 2). On POD 21, the patient underwent catheter drainage under the guidance of ultrasonic from the perihepatic area. Abdominal distension of the patients improved. However, on POD 25, the patient abruptly developed melena and hematemesis, and vomited about 300 mL of bloody fluid. A total of 200 mL bright red bloody fluid drained from the abdominal tube. Then, the patient suffered from a shock with hypotension and tachycardia. Hence, Active abdominal bleeding was considered. Urgent Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) performed on the basis of a joint decision between the interventional radiologist and a surgeon. DSA revealed a pseudoaneurysm after the rupture of the CHA (Fig. 3a, Video 1). Then, embolization of the hepatic artery with microcoil was performed successfully (Fig. 3b, Video 2). The patient’s blood pressure returned to normal after embolization. And then the patient regained hemodynamic stability and was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The patient was successfully discharged from the hospital on POD 38. There were no obvious abnormalities in the patient’s reexamination after three months.

DSA procedure:

The patient lied supine on the DSA table; a puncture in the right femoral artery was performed after local anesthesia. The 5FRH catheter was placed into the right femoral artery, the catheter head was inserted into the celiac trunk artery for DSA, and the super-selected microcatheter (Terumo Progreat microcatheter, Japan) was inserted into the hepatic artery. After the hepatic artery, its branches were identified by contrast; the embolization microcoil was placed, followed by the injection of the histoacryl (B.Braun Closure Specialities, Germany) into the hepatic artery. Ultimately, the hepatic artery and its branches did not develop again and hence were not visualized under DSA.

Discussion

Commonly, complications develop after PD; there is no doubt that PPH is dangerous and fatal. Furthermore, a ruptured pseudoaneurysm is the most severe and fatal cause of PPH [8]. The formation of the pseudoaneurysm is associated with the damage to the vascular wall. Although adequate lymph node dissection and skeletonization of the vessels in surgery may significantly improve the patient’s prognosis, the dissection and skeletonization make the arterial wall weak and vulnerable, which is susceptible to erosion by trypsin and elastase from the digestive juice [9].

Then, we analyzed the pathogenesis of this case, which may be related to laparoscopic instrument operation. Especially, the dissociation of vessels and dissection of the lymph nodes caused excessive skeletonization, and then the Hem-o-lock ligation damaged the arterial wall, which may lead to the formation of the pseudoaneurysm in the stump of the ligated artery.

In this case, intraperitoneal hemorrhage occurred after surgery, and the measured drainage liquid amylase was 1480u/L; thus, it was considered that the digestive fluid leak caused by the pancreatic fistula, corroded the blood vessels and eventually led to bleeding. After conservative treatment, there is a possibility of hemodynamic instability that would require emergency DSA examination; the formation of a pseudoaneurysm of the CHA and arterial embolism are also considered. Microcoil was chosen given the hemodynamic instability of the patients; while the liver has a double blood supply, a simple embolism is not likely to cause liver ischemia necrosis. Microcoil and histoacryl embolization were chosen given.

A recent meta-analysis revealed that endovascular treatment of a ruptured pseudoaneurysm had low mortality and morbidity and high success rate than surgical intervention [10,11]. endovascular treatment is considered the first choice in the treatment of pseudoaneurysm recently. Endovascular treatment consists of Transcatheter Arterial Embolization （TAE） and stent-graft placement. Coil embolization as a TAE is an effective approach for the treatment of a pseudoaneurysm [12,13].

In this case, we summarized several experiences for the iatrogenic traumatic pseudoaneurysm. First, excessive skeletonization of the blood vessels should be avoided, which leads to the injury of the endangium. In addition, when dealing with the stump of the gastroduodenal artery, the lymph node should be proper to avert excessive skeletonization. Second, compression, avulsion, clamping, or stretching of the skeletonization vessels in the laparoscopic operation increases the risk of bleeding and may cause injury of the endangium. Therefore, accurate vascular localization is the key to a successful operation, and improper operation should be avoided especially when ligating the arteries. Third, when using the Hem-o-lock to ligate the artery, it should be closed slowly, which avoids the shearing action to vessels in the closure process, and damage to the arterial stump. Finally, the vessels and lymph nodes should be skeletonized with laparoscopic instruments by blunt dissection. According to our experience, the skeletonization of the blood vessels tends to be covered with an omental flap to prevent hemorrhage after the PD. Several studies [14,15] revealed that the omental flap or falciform ligament placement over a skeletonization of blood vessels could be an effective measure for the prevention of pseudoaneurysm formation after PD.

In conclusion, this case demonstrated the successful experience for the treatment of delayed PPH by TAE. Endovascular treatment is the first choice for the diagnosis and treatment of a ruptured pseudoaneurysm after PD. Although a stent-graft placement is considered a first-line treatment in the endovascular treatment, coil embolization is a reliable, safe, and effective method particularly when unstable hemodynamics of the patient was observed. In a word, when making the treatment plan, the patient’s condition, presentation, and clinical history should be taken into consideration.

Statements for written informed consent

The author has obtained the patient's handwritten informed consent (pic1, 2).

Acknowledgement

Thanks to Xin Xu, Youliang Wu for guiding the format modification and submission of the magazine.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Consent for publication

All authors agree to publish the paper.

Funding Sources

This work was supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81874063) and Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province (2008085QH408).

Authors’ Contributions

Lifeng Xu collect all the article data and is responsible for writing the full text. Bo Yang participated in the writing of the article and the modification of the article format. Yongxiang Li provided the ideas for the research and all the funding. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Availability of data and materials

The datasets used or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

[readingsquotes]

"Six hundred and twenty-seven healthcare workers have been killed by Israeli forces so far, according to the WHO. Forty-seven ambulances have been damaged or destroyed through direct targeting, often while bringing victims of the most recent Israeli air strike to the hospital. Women in active labor sometimes rely on donkeys for transport to medical facilities, although even these animals are not safe from targeting."

...

This devastated infrastructure is meant to cope with one of the worst humanitarian crises of modern times. On October 9, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant infamously ordered a “complete siege” of Gaza, adding, “There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel, everything is closed.” As a result, 95 percent of the 600,000 people facing starvation around the world right now are in Gaza, according to the UN. Communicable diseases are rampant due to the measured annihilation of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure, including the most basic means of sanitation and the concentration of millions of people into ever-dwindling pockets of land. ...

In late December, the WHO reported that there was one toilet for every 480 persons in Gaza. Eight thousand new cases of hepatitis A and almost 45,000 new skin rashes have been reported, along with tens of thousands of new respiratory infections and 165,000 new cases of diarrheal infections, including more than 85,000 cases in children less than 5 years old.

Today, because of the Israeli prohibition on diagnostic tools and, more importantly, the prevention of safe access to hospitals, many infectious diseases can’t be formally diagnosed. If people can reach a healthcare facility at all, there is often no available treatment, even for things like cholera (which causes profuse watery diarrhea) whose treatment is fairly simple: rehydration.

Many Gazan hospitals are running out of IV fluids, the most basic essential in a doctor’s resuscitative tool kit. Even if someone were to attempt oral rehydration in Gaza, they’d likely struggle, as Israel is limiting the entry of water into Gaza to around a liter per person (this includes water for showering, cooking, etc.; the WHO recommends a minimum of 15 L per person per day, although 300 L is closer to what the average American consumes daily). Gaza’s three desalination plants were targeted by Israel early in the war, and, even before October, 97 percent of the tap water in Gaza wasn’t fit for consumption.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of the medical horrors in Gaza. For interested readers, the WHO has been publishing this data since the start of the assault against Gaza, with recommendations included at the end of each document.

[sophia-zofia]

According to a WHO report from January 30, 2024, only 13 of 36 hospitals in Gaza remain partially functioning. (There are around 6,120 hospitals in the United States. Per a crude calculation—ignoring the incredible variability in what counts as “partially functioning”—this is the equivalent of 4,080 American hospitals being damaged or destroyed.) The same report said that 13 of 77 primary healthcare facilities are operational and that 342 attacks on healthcare infrastructure have been reported, although the actual number is likely much higher, as reporting from northern Gaza is increasingly limited. Six hundred and twenty-seven healthcare workers have been killed by Israeli forces so far, according to the WHO. Forty-seven ambulances have been damaged or destroyed through direct targeting, often while bringing victims of the most recent Israeli air strike to the hospital. Women in active labor sometimes rely on donkeys for transport to medical facilities, although even these animals are not safe from targeting. This devastated infrastructure is meant to cope with one of the worst humanitarian crises of modern times. On October 9, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant infamously ordered a “complete siege” of Gaza, adding, “There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel, everything is closed.” As a result, 95 percent of the 600,000 people facing starvation around the world right now are in Gaza, according to the UN. Communicable diseases are rampant due to the measured annihilation of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure, including the most basic means of sanitation and the concentration of millions of people into ever-dwindling pockets of land. (Impossibly here, I’m asking the reader to ignore the trauma and the bombs, and instead focus on epidemics, whose spread at least one retired Israeli general has lauded as a crucial tool of battle.) In late December, the WHO reported that there was one toilet for every 480 persons in Gaza. Eight thousand new cases of hepatitis A and almost 45,000 new skin rashes have been reported, along with tens of thousands of new respiratory infections and 165,000 new cases of diarrheal infections, including more than 85,000 cases in children less than 5 years old. Today, because of the Israeli prohibition on diagnostic tools and, more importantly, the prevention of safe access to hospitals, many infectious diseases can’t be formally diagnosed. If people can reach a healthcare facility at all, there is often no available treatment, even for things like cholera (which causes profuse watery diarrhea) whose treatment is fairly simple: rehydration. Many Gazan hospitals are running out of IV fluids, the most basic essential in a doctor’s resuscitative tool kit. Even if someone were to attempt oral rehydration in Gaza, they’d likely struggle, as Israel is limiting the entry of water into Gaza to around a liter per person (this includes water for showering, cooking, etc.; the WHO recommends a minimum of 15 L per person per day, although 300 L is closer to what the average American consumes daily). Gaza’s three desalination plants were targeted by Israel early in the war, and, even before October, 97 percent of the tap water in Gaza wasn’t fit for consumption. This is by no means a comprehensive list of the medical horrors in Gaza. For interested readers, the WHO has been publishing this data since the start of the assault against Gaza, with recommendations included at the end of each document. On October 8, the first recommended intervention read, “immediate end to hostilities.” On January 30, “immediate cease-fire.”

[mobileblooddrawservices]

Blood Testing Services - Personalized Healthcare

Blood testing services have emerged as a cornerstone of modern healthcare, offering a window into the inner workings of our bodies. With a simple blood sample, these services can provide critical insights into our health, ranging from diagnosing diseases to monitoring treatment effectiveness. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of Blood draw at home services, exploring the wide range of tests available, their significance in healthcare, and how they empower individuals to take charge of their well-being.

The Significance of Blood Testing Services

Blood is a treasure trove of information, carrying vital clues about our health. Blood testing services have gained immense importance for several reasons:

Early Disease Detection: Blood tests can detect diseases and health conditions at an early stage, often before symptoms become apparent. Early detection allows for timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes.

Monitoring Chronic Conditions: For individuals managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and thyroid disorders, regular blood tests are essential for monitoring disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

Personalized Healthcare: Blood tests enable personalized healthcare by tailoring treatment plans and interventions based on an individual's unique health markers and needs.

Preventive Care: Blood tests play a crucial role in preventive care, identifying risk factors and enabling lifestyle adjustments to reduce the likelihood of developing certain diseases.

Treatment Guidance: Physicians use blood test results to guide treatment decisions, adjust medication dosages, and assess the impact of treatments.

The Range of Blood Tests

Blood testing services encompass a vast array of tests, each designed to assess specific aspects of health. Here are some common categories of blood tests:

Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures various components of the blood, including red and white blood cells and platelets, providing insights into overall health.

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Assesses essential metabolic functions such as glucose, calcium, and electrolyte levels.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): Extends the BMP by including liver and kidney function tests, as well as protein levels.

Lipid Profile: Evaluates cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides, to assess cardiovascular risk.

Thyroid Function Tests: Measure thyroid hormone levels, helping diagnose thyroid disorders.

Blood Glucose Tests: Assess blood sugar levels, crucial for diagnosing and managing diabetes.

Coagulation Profile: Evaluates the blood's ability to clot, important for monitoring blood thinners and diagnosing clotting disorders.

Hormone Tests: Measure hormone levels, including sex hormones, thyroid hormones, and adrenal hormones.

Infectious Disease Testing: Detects antibodies or antigens for infections such as HIV, hepatitis, and Lyme disease.

Cancer Markers: Blood tests can identify specific markers associated with certain cancers, aiding in diagnosis and monitoring.

Vitamin and Mineral Levels: Assess levels of essential nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron.

The Process of Blood Testing

The process of blood testing typically involves the following steps:

Sample Collection: A trained healthcare professional collects a blood sample, usually from a vein in the arm, using a needle and syringe or a vacuum tube.

Sample Processing: The collected blood is processed in a laboratory to separate the various components for analysis.

Laboratory Testing: Specialized equipment and techniques are used to measure specific markers in the blood sample accurately.

Result Reporting: Test results are reported to the patient and their healthcare provider. Many blood testing services offer online access to results for convenience.

Blood testing services are a cornerstone of modern healthcare, offering a wealth of information about our health and well-being. They enable early disease detection, personalized treatment plans, and preventive care, ultimately empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Regular blood testing, in collaboration with healthcare providers, is a powerful tool for maintaining and enhancing one's health throughout life. By understanding the significance of blood tests and their role in personalized healthcare, individuals can embark on a journey toward optimal well-being and longevity.

Certainly, here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about blood testing services:

What are blood testing services?

Blood testing services are healthcare facilities or providers that offer a range of tests and analyses using blood samples to assess various aspects of an individual's health, including disease detection, monitoring chronic conditions, and evaluating overall well-being.

Why are blood tests important?

Blood tests are crucial for early disease detection, monitoring chronic conditions, guiding treatment decisions, assessing risk factors, and promoting preventive care. They provide valuable insights into an individual's health.

How is a blood sample collected?

A trained healthcare professional typically collects a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a needle and syringe or a vacuum tube. The procedure is relatively quick and generally causes minimal discomfort.

What types of tests can be performed with a blood sample?

Blood testing services offer a wide range of tests, including complete blood counts, metabolic panels, lipid profiles, thyroid function tests, blood glucose tests, hormone tests, infectious disease testing, cancer marker tests, and vitamin/mineral level assessments, among others.

How long does it take to get blood test results?

The turnaround time for blood test results varies depending on the specific tests conducted and the laboratory's processing time. Some results may be available within a few hours, while others may take a few days.

Are blood test results confidential?

Yes, blood test results are confidential and protected by patient privacy laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Only authorized healthcare professionals and the patient have access to these results.

Can I request specific blood tests?

Yes, many blood testing services allow patients to request specific tests based on their healthcare needs and preferences. You can discuss your testing requirements with the provider or your healthcare practitioner.

How often should I get blood tests done?

The frequency of blood tests depends on your age, overall health, family history, and any specific medical conditions you may have. Your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate schedule for blood tests.

Do I need to fast before certain blood tests?

Some blood tests, like fasting blood glucose and lipid profiles, require fasting for a specific period (usually 8-12 hours) before the test to obtain accurate results. Your healthcare provider will provide instructions if fasting is necessary.

Are blood tests covered by insurance?

The coverage of blood tests by insurance may vary depending on your insurance provider, policy, and the specific tests being conducted. It's advisable to check with your insurance company to understand the extent of coverage.

Can I access my blood test results online?

Many blood testing services offer online portals or apps where patients can access their test results securely. This provides convenient access to your health information.

How can I find a reliable blood testing service near me?

You can search online for blood testing services in your area, ask your healthcare provider for recommendations, or use healthcare directories to locate nearby facilities. Reading reviews and checking accreditation can help you make an informed choice.

Blood testing services play a crucial role in healthcare by providing valuable information that guides diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care. If you have specific questions about blood testing or require particular tests, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a trusted blood testing service provider.

Read more at website: http://www.mobileblooddrawservices.com/

[medchemexpressinhibitor-blog]

Understanding the Deadly Toxin Found in Certain Mushroom Species

Introduction

Mushrooms are a diverse group of organisms, and while many are safe and edible, some species contain poisonous compounds. β-Amanitin is one such toxin found in certain mushroom species belonging to the genus Amanita. This article aims to explore factual evidence regarding the properties, effects, and potential dangers associated with β-Amanitin.

Understanding β-Amanitin

β-Amanitin is a cyclic peptide toxin produced by various species of mushrooms, including Amanita phalloides (death cap) and Amanita virosa (destroying angel). It is highly stable and resistant to heat, making it a potent toxin even after cooking[¹^]. Once ingested, β-Amanitin targets specific cellular processes, leading to severe liver damage and potentially fatal consequences.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of RNA Polymerase II: β-Amanitin specifically inhibits RNA polymerase II, an essential enzyme responsible for transcribing messenger RNA (mRNA) in eukaryotic cells. By binding to RNA polymerase II, β-Amanitin prevents mRNA synthesis, disrupting important cellular processes and ultimately leading to cell death[²^].

Factual Evidence Regarding β-Amanitin

Toxicity and Poisoning: Ingestion of mushrooms containing β-Amanitin can cause acute liver failure, often with delayed symptoms. The initial phase may include gastrointestinal distress, followed by a symptom-free period lasting up to 24 hours. Subsequently, liver damage manifests, characterized by jaundice, hepatic encephalopathy, and potentially progressing to multi-organ failure[³^].

Treatment Challenges: β-Amanitin poisoning is considered a medical emergency, and prompt recognition and appropriate treatment are crucial. Unfortunately, there is no specific antidote for β-Amanitin poisoning. Current management involves supportive care, liver protection measures, and potentially liver transplantation in severe cases[⁴^].

Forensic Toxicology: Due to the potent effects of β-Amanitin and its presence in lethal mushroom species, its detection plays a significant role in forensic toxicology. Analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) are employed to identify and quantify β-Amanitin in biological samples[⁵^].

Prevention and Awareness

Mushroom Identification: The primary preventive measure is accurate mushroom identification. Proper training and knowledge are crucial for distinguishing edible mushrooms from poisonous species, especially those containing β-Amanitin.

Education and Public Awareness: Raising awareness about the dangers of consuming wild mushrooms without expert guidance is essential. Public education campaigns can help reduce the incidence of β-Amanitin poisoning by promoting safe mushroom foraging practices.

Conclusion

β-Amanitin, a toxic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, poses a significant threat to human health. Its inhibition of RNA polymerase II leads to severe liver damage and potential fatality. Timely recognition of symptoms, along with supportive care and appropriate medical intervention, is vital for managing β-Amanitin poisoning.

To prevent β-Amanitin poisoning, it is crucial to exercise caution when consuming wild mushrooms and rely on expert identification. Public awareness campaigns can play an important role in educating the general population about the risks associated with consuming unknown mushrooms. Please visit MedChemExpress

(Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If there is a suspicion of mushroom poisoning, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.)

[mcatmemoranda]

Asymptomatic carotid stenosis of 50%–70% should be treated medically to reduce atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Initiating statin therapy and smoking cessation will have the greatest impact on reducing his risk [the pt was a 63 y/o M with normal BP who smokes, whose internal carotid artery was 50% stenosed without symptoms]. Without past neurologic symptoms from carotid artery disease, surgical intervention would not be indicated due to the potential risks of surgery, but repeat ultrasonography is considered reasonable.

Extracranial carotid artery atherosclerosis is a risk factor for stroke and warrants risk factor reduction. Nonsurgical approaches that lower stroke risk include smoking cessation, hypertension management with a goal blood pressure of <130/80 mm Hg, management of diabetes mellitus if present, and initiation of high-intensity statin therapy with a target LDL-cholesterol level of <70 mg/dL. Regular physical activity regardless of BMI is associated with a reduction in stroke risk.

Surgical interventions for carotid disease, such as endarterectomy or stenting, carry a significant risk of mortality and disabling stroke. Because of the risks of intervention, screening of asymptomatic patients is not routinely recommended. Similarly, the benefits of intervention must be weighed against the potential risks. Generally, intervention is recommended if the patient has experienced significant symptoms from carotid artery disease such as stroke or high-risk TIA with stenosis >50%.

For asymptomatic patients, the average annual risk of stroke with stenosis ≥70% is about 1% and evaluation for carotid endarterectomy or stenting is recommended if the patient is considered to be at acceptable surgical risk.

Family physicians often see patients with diarrheal illnesses and most of these are viral. Patients sometimes have misconceptions about preferred fluid and feeding recommendations during these illnesses. The World Health Organization recommends oral rehydration with low osmolarity drinks (oral rehydration solution) and early refeeding. Low osmolarity solutions contain glucose and water, which decrease stool frequency, emesis, and the need for intravenous fluids. Soda and sports drinks contain a higher concentration of glucose, which may worsen diarrhea.

Half-strength apple juice has been shown to be effective, and it approximates an oral rehydration solution. Its use prevents patient measurement errors and the purchase of beverages with an inappropriate osmolarity. It is also more appealing to children than many oral rehydration solutions. Water increases the risk of hyponatremia in children. Refeeding on patient request has been shown to decrease the duration of illness.

This asymptomatic patient with mildly elevated transaminases most likely has nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is the most common chronic liver disorder in the United States. It is associated with metabolic syndrome. The initial evaluation should include studies to rule out less common causes of liver disease including viral hepatitis and hemochromatosis. Other laboratory studies that assist in evaluation include albumin and platelet levels. These values allow for the calculation of the Fibrosis-4 score or the NAFLD fibrosis score, which are validated to predict the risk of significant liver fibrosis. Patients with an elevated risk of fibrosis require further evaluation, typically with ultrasound-based elastography before considering liver biopsy. Medications and supplements may cause elevated transaminase levels, and a thorough history to elicit this information is important. Statin-induced liver injury is rare and not consistent with this clinical picture. Discontinuing statin therapy is not necessary with mild transaminase elevations due to NAFLD. Metformin is unlikely to cause elevated transaminases and is safe with this severity of liver disease. Liver fibrosis may be detected with CT but ultrasonography is more sensitive and thus preferred.

Biceps tendinitis causes pain with abduction and external rotation of the arm, and tenderness of the bicipital groove with palpation. Resisted supination of the hand with the elbow flexed to 90° is the Yergason test, and anterior shoulder pain with this maneuver is consistent with bicipital tendinitis. Anterior shoulder pain with cross adduction of the arm is more consistent with acromioclavicular arthritis. Axial compression with rotation to the affected side of the slightly extended neck is the Spurling test for cervical radiculopathy. Extension of the elbow would activate the triceps, and internal rotation of the shoulder with the elbow flexed would result in less activation of the biceps than resisted supination.

Doxycycline (100–200 mg daily or 40 mg once daily of a modified-release formulation) and minocycline (100–200 mg daily) are effective options for the treatment of papulopustular rosacea. The modified-release doxycycline, which is a 40-mg capsule, is FDA-approved but is more expensive out of pocket. Oral metronidazole or macrolides such as azithromycin and clarithromycin can also be considered for those who cannot take tetracyclines. Erythromycin would not be a first-line choice. Amoxicillin, cephalexin, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim lack evidence to support their use in the treatment of papulopustular rosacea.

Office spirometry can be very helpful in narrowing the differential diagnosis of dyspnea. Of the options listed, only cystic fibrosis can cause an obstructive pattern. Other causes of an obstructive pattern include asthma, COPD, α1-antitrypsin deficiency, and bronchiectasis, among others. Common diseases or conditions causing restrictive patterns include adverse reactions to nitrofurantoin, methotrexate, and amiodarone. Chest wall conditions such as kyphosis, scoliosis, and morbid obesity can also cause restrictive patterns. Interstitial lung disease, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and asbestosis, also causes a restrictive pattern.

After percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for a non–ST-elevation myocardial infarction, the American College of Cardiology (ACC) recommends continuing dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for at least 12 months in patients who do not have a high risk for bleeding. There are few consistent recommendations after 12 months because there is less consistent and high-quality evidence for outcomes beyond this time point.

The net benefit of dual antiplatelet therapy is highest in the first 12 months after PCI. After 12 months of therapy, the risk of bleeding increases. The risk-benefit ratio should be reassessed for all patients after 12 months of therapy. For most patients, discontinuing either the P2Y12 inhibitor or the aspirin is warranted after 12 months. A 2020 meta-analysis found that patients with newer generation drug-eluting stents treated with DAPT for >18 months had a higher all-cause mortality compared with those treated for <6 months.

The ACC indicates that continuing DAPT is reasonable for select patients. Point-of-care tools, such as the PRECISE-DAPT Risk Calculator, use clinical information to calculate the likely cardiac risk reduction and likely risk of bleeding to help inform shared decision-making after 12 months.

Aspirin is the most cost-effective option for long-term antiplatelet therapy. For this patient, who has indicated costs of care are a concern for him, discontinuing clopidogrel is the better choice.

In addition to antiplatelet therapy, control of elevated blood pressure and cholesterol also reduces cardiovascular outcomes in secondary prevention. This patient’s LDL-cholesterol level is at goal and currently <70 mg/dL, so atorvastatin should be continued at the current dosage. He has reached his blood pressure goal of <130/80 mm Hg and has no orthostatic symptoms, so his current blood pressure medication regimen should be continued.

Because patients with an acute ischemic stroke may require the increased perfusion pressure to limit ischemia, antihypertensive therapy should not be given during the first 48–72 hours as long as they are not candidates for, or recipients of, reperfusion therapy with alteplase or thrombectomy; do not have a comorbid condition requiring acute blood pressure lowering; and do not have a blood pressure >220/120 mm Hg. Patients with a history of hypertension can generally resume their home blood pressure medications once they are safely eating and drinking. Basically, you can allow HTN (permissive HTN) within the first 48 hours of having an ischemic stroke that wasn't treated with alteplase or thrombectomy with goal BP <220/120.

[nitte-university-blog]

How Laboratory Techniques in Biomedical Science Help in Disease Diagnosis

Medical science has made significant progress in diagnosing diseases with the help of advancements in laboratory techniques. These techniques are the foundation of biomedical science, helping doctors detect illnesses early and provide the right treatment. Students pursuing degrees in BSc biomedical colleges in India are trained in these methods, equipping them with the knowledge to contribute to medical research and patient care.

The Role of Laboratory Techniques in Diagnosis

Medical laboratories play a crucial role in identifying diseases. A person may feel unwell, but without laboratory tests, it is difficult to determine the exact cause. Laboratory techniques analyze blood, tissues, and other samples to provide accurate results, helping doctors make informed decisions.

These techniques allow for:

Early disease detection: Many diseases, including cancer and infections, show early signs in blood and tissue samples before symptoms appear.

Precise diagnosis: Advanced tests can differentiate between conditions with similar symptoms.

Monitoring treatment effectiveness: Doctors can check how well a patient is responding to treatment through laboratory tests.

Common Laboratory Techniques Used in Biomedical Science

Microscopy

Microscopy is one of the oldest and most widely used techniques in biomedical science. It helps scientists examine cells, bacteria, and tissue samples at a microscopic level. This is essential for detecting infections, studying cancer cells, and identifying abnormalities in tissues.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

PCR is a groundbreaking technique that amplifies small amounts of DNA. It is widely used to detect genetic disorders, infections, and even cancer. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of PCR testing in quickly identifying viral infections.

Immunoassays

Immunoassays use antibodies to detect specific proteins or markers in blood samples. They are commonly used for diagnosing diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and certain types of cancer. These tests provide rapid and accurate results, making them essential in disease management.

Cell Culture Techniques

Cell culture involves growing cells in a controlled environment to study their behavior. This technique is widely used in cancer research, vaccine development, and the study of infectious diseases. Scientists use cell cultures to test new treatments and understand how diseases progress.

Biochemical Analysis

Biochemical tests help measure enzymes, hormones, and other substances in the body. These tests are crucial for diagnosing conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and kidney diseases. A simple blood test can provide insights into a person’s overall health and detect potential issues early.

Flow Cytometry

Flow cytometry is a sophisticated technique used to analyze the physical and chemical properties of cells. It is commonly used in cancer research and immunology to study the characteristics of blood cells. This technique plays a vital role in diagnosing leukemia and other blood-related disorders.

Conclusion

Laboratory techniques do not just help in diagnosing diseases; they also improve patient outcomes. By identifying illnesses early, doctors can recommend timely treatments, increasing the chances of recovery. Patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, benefit from regular laboratory tests that monitor their health and prevent complications.

Moreover, laboratory techniques are essential in medical research. They help scientists develop new treatments, vaccines, and diagnostic tools. Research conducted at leading biomedical science colleges in India contributes to global healthcare advancements, improving lives worldwide.