#health and medical insights

[wellhealthhub]

Caregiver Connect with Well Health Hub: Your Ultimate Destination for Inclusive and Extensive Information

Unlock the power of Caregiver Connect with Well Health Hub, the centralized platform designed to cater to caregivers’ diverse needs. Discover a wide range of articles, insights, and resources to enhance your caregiving journey. Immerse yourself in a dynamic environment that fosters support and connection. Access everything you need, conveniently consolidated in one place! 1. Well Health Hub…

[lighthouseshepard]

feels like. most of the past few months have just been me waiting in drs offices alone hoping for answers or a solution that will stick. and it sucks

[dancingwithdoom]

People don’t talk about

Having mental illness and working in mental health is a double edged sword

[jcmarchi]

How cfDNA testing has changed prenatal care

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/how-cfdna-testing-has-changed-prenatal-care/

How cfDNA testing has changed prenatal care

The much-touted arrival of “precision medicine” promises tailored technologies that help individuals and may also reduce health care costs. New research shows how pregnancy screening can meet both of these objectives, but the findings also highlight how precision medicine must be matched well with patients to save money.

The study involves cfDNA screenings, a type of blood test that can reveal conditions based on chromosomal variation, such as Down Syndrome. For many pregnant women, though not all, cfDNA screenings can be an alternative to amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) — invasive procedures that come with a risk of miscarriage.

In examining how widely cfDNA tests should be used, the study reached a striking conclusion.

“What we find is the highest value for the cfDNA testing comes from people who are high risk, but not extraordinarily high risk,” says Amy Finkelstein, an MIT economist and co-author of a newly published paper detailing the study.

The paper, “Targeting Precision Medicine: Evidence from Prenatal Screening,” appears in the Journal of Political Economy. The co-authors are Peter Conner, an associate professor and senior consultant at Karolinska University Hospital in Sweden; Liran Einav, a professor of economics at Stanford University; Finkelstein, the John and Jennie S. MacDonald Professor of Economics at MIT; and Petra Persson, an assistant professor of economics at Stanford University.

“There is a lot of hope attached to precision medicine,” Persson says. “We can do a lot of new things and tailor health care treatments to patients, which holds a lot of promise. In this paper, we highlight that while this is all true, there are also significant costs in the personalization of medicine. As a society, we may want to examine how to use these technologies while keeping an eye on health care costs.”

Measuring the benefit to “middle-risk” patients

To conduct the study, the research team looked at the introduction of cfDNA screening in Sweden, during the period from 2011 to 2019, with data covering over 230,000 pregnancies. As it happens, there were also regional discrepancies in the extent to which cfDNA screenings were covered by Swedish health care, for patients not already committed to having invasive testing. Some regions covered cfDNA testing quite widely, for all patients with a “moderate” assessed risk or higher; other regions, by contrast, restricted coverage to a subset of patients within that group with elevated risk profiles. This provided variation the researchers could use when conducting their analysis.

With the most generous coverage of cfDNA testing, the procedure was used by 86 percent of patients; with more targeted coverage, that figure dropped to about 33 percent. In both cases, the amount of invasive testing, including amniocentesis, dropped significantly, to about 5 percent. (The cfDNA screenings are very informative, but not fully conclusive, which invasive testing is, so some pregnant women will opt-for a follow-up procedure.)

Both approaches, then, yielded similar reductions in the rate of invasive testing. But due to the costs of cfDNA tests, the economic implications are quite different. Introducing wide coverage of cfDNA tests would raise overall medical costs by about $250 per pregnancy, the study estimates. In contrast, introducing cfDNA with more targeted coverage yields a reduction of about $89 per patient.

Ultimately, the larger dynamics are clear. Pregnant women who have the highest risk of bearing children with chromosome-based conditions are likely to still opt for an invasive test like amniocentesis. Those with virtually no risk may not even have cfDNA tests done. For a group in between, cfDNA tests have a substantial medical value, relieving them of the need for an invasive test. And narrowing the group of patients getting cfDNA tests lowers the overall cost.

“People who are very high-risk are often going to use the invasive test, which is definitive, regardless of whether they have a cfDNA screen or not,” Finkelstein says. “But for middle-risk people, covering cfDNA produces a big increase in cfDNA testing, and that produces a big decline in the rates of the riskier, and more expensive, invasive test.”

How precise?

In turn, the study’s findings raise a larger point. Precision medicine, in almost any form, will add expenses to medical care. Therefore developing some precision about who receives it is significant.

“The allure of precision medicine is targeting people who need it, so we don’t do expensive and potentially unpleasant tests and treatments of people who don’t need them,” Finkelstein says. “Which sounds great, but it kicks the can down the road. You still need to figure out who is a candidate for which kind of precision medicine.”

Therefore, in medicine, instead of just throwing technology at the problem, we may want to aim carefully, where evidence warrants it. Overall, that means good precision medicine builds on good policy analysis, not just good technology.

“Sometimes when we think medical technology has an impact, we simply ask if the technology raises or lowers health care costs, or if it makes patients healthier,” Persson observes. “An important insight from our work, I think, is that the answers are not just about the technology. It’s about the pairing of technology and policy because policy is going to influence the impact of technology on health care and patient outcomes. We see this clearly in our study.”

In this case, finding comparable patient outcomes with narrower cfDNA screenings suggests one way of targeting diagnostic procedures. And across many possible medical situations, finding the subset of people for whom a technology is most likely to yield new and actionable information seems a promising objective.

“The benefit is not just an innate feature of the testing,” Finkelstein says. “With diagnostic technologies, the value of information is greatest when you’re neither obviously appropriate or inappropriate for the next treatment. It’s really the non-monotone value of information that’s interesting.”

The study was supported, in part, by the U.S. National Science Foundation.

[mehmetyildizmelbourne-blog]

When Painkillers Cause More Pain Than Relief: Lessons from the Gosport Tragedy

How Misused Opioids Dull Minds, Shorten Lives, and Rob Patients of Dignity I’ve seen the delicate balance of pain management firsthand throughout my career. It’s no easy task. But when I read the findings from the Gosport War Memorial scandal, my heart sank and I started to share my thoughts and feelings concisely.  This wasn’t about relieving pain — it was about the consequences of misuse,…

[theinsightclinic]

The Benefits of Psychiatrist Medication in Treating Anxiety and Depression

The Benefits of Psychiatrist Medication in Treating Anxiety and Depression explores how psychiatrist-prescribed medications can provide effective relief for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. Learn how these treatments, tailored to each patient's needs, can complement therapy and lifestyle changes to promote long-term mental wellness.

[techdriveplay]

Introducing the Withings ScanWatch Nova Brilliant: A Fusion of Elegance and Medical Precision

Withings, a renowned global leader in connected health technology, has once again raised the bar with the unveiling of its latest innovation—the ScanWatch Nova Brilliant. This hybrid smartwatch masterfully combines timeless design with advanced medical-grade technology, making it the most sophisticated smartwatch in the Withings portfolio. A Statement of Elegance At first glance, the ScanWatch…

[nmsc-market-pulse]

Top 8 Growth Drivers of the Medical Drones Market by 2030

Introduction:

In recent years, advancements in technology have revolutionized various industries, and healthcare is no exception. One of the most promising innovations in healthcare logistics is the use of medical drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly being leveraged to transport medical supplies, and organs for transplantation, and even to provide emergency medical services in remote areas.

The global medical drones market is poised for significant growth, driven by several key factors that underscore their potential to transform healthcare delivery. Here, we explore the top 8 growth drivers shaping the future of the market by 2030.

 Download Free Sample: https://www.nextmsc.com/medical-drones-market/request-sample

1. Enhanced Healthcare Access in Remote Areas

One of the primary drivers propelling the medical drones market is their ability to overcome geographical barriers and deliver medical supplies to remote and inaccessible regions. In many parts of the world, especially in rural and underserved areas, traditional transportation infrastructure is inadequate. Medical drones offer a cost-effective and efficient solution to bridge this gap, ensuring timely delivery of essential medicines, vaccines, and diagnostic tools.

2. Rapid Response in Emergency Situations

Medical emergencies often require swift intervention, where every minute counts. Drones equipped with medical kits can significantly reduce response times by bypassing traffic congestion and other logistical challenges faced by ground ambulances. This capability is particularly crucial in scenarios like cardiac arrests, trauma incidents, and natural disasters, where immediate medical attention can save lives.

3. Technological Advancements in Drone Capabilities

Advancements in drone technology, including improvements in battery life, payload capacity, and autonomous navigation systems, are key enablers driving market growth. Modern medical drones are equipped with advanced sensors and GPS tracking, allowing for precise delivery and operational efficiency. Moreover, ongoing research and development efforts are focused on enhancing drone capabilities, such as extended flight range and adaptability to diverse environmental conditions.

Inquire Before Buying: https://www.nextmsc.com/medical-drones-market/inquire-before-buying

4. Government Support and Regulatory Frameworks

The growing recognition of the potential benefits of medical drones has prompted governments worldwide to support their integration into healthcare systems. Regulatory agencies are developing frameworks to ensure safe operations and integration of drones into airspace management. These regulatory advancements are crucial for fostering industry growth by providing clarity and promoting investment in drone technology for medical applications.

5. Rising Demand for Faster Delivery of Medical Supplies

In an era marked by the increasing demand for immediacy and efficiency, healthcare providers are under pressure to enhance the speed of medical supply delivery. Drones offer a solution by significantly reducing delivery times compared to traditional methods. This capability is particularly valuable for transporting time-sensitive medical supplies such as blood products, vaccines, and medications that require refrigeration.

6. Cost-Effective Healthcare Logistics

Cost-effectiveness is a compelling factor driving the adoption of medical drones. Traditional logistics involving ground transportation incur significant costs related to fuel, labor, and maintenance. In contrast, drones offer a more economical alternative for last-mile delivery, especially in remote and resource-constrained settings. As operational efficiencies improve and economies of scale are realized, the cost-effectiveness of medical drones is expected to further drive market expansion.

7. Increasing Incidence of Natural Disasters and Public Health Emergencies

The frequency and impact of natural disasters and public health emergencies, such as pandemics, underscore the need for resilient and responsive healthcare infrastructure. Medical drones can play a critical role in disaster response by delivering medical supplies to affected areas quickly and safely. Their ability to operate in challenging environments and adverse conditions makes them indispensable assets for emergency preparedness and response efforts globally.

8. Growing Investment in Research and Development

The medical drones market is witnessing substantial investment in research and development aimed at expanding technological capabilities and exploring new applications. Innovations such as drone swarms for mass casualty incidents, drone-based telemedicine platforms, and AI-powered diagnostic drones are paving the way for future growth opportunities. Collaborations between technology firms, healthcare providers, and academic institutions are driving innovation and fostering the evolution of medical drone solutions.

Conclusion

The medical drones market is poised for transformative growth, driven by advancements in technology, increasing healthcare access needs, regulatory support, and cost-effective logistics solutions. As these drivers continue to evolve, the role of medical drones in healthcare delivery will expand, enhancing emergency response capabilities, improving healthcare access in remote areas, and optimizing logistics efficiency.

With ongoing advancements and supportive regulatory environments, the future promises a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery through the integration of medical drones into mainstream healthcare systems worldwide.

[trendtrackershq]

𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞: 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔.𝐒. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭

𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐚 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞: https://www.nextmsc.com/us-primary-care-market/request-sample

The 𝐔.𝐒. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 is evolving rapidly, driven by a myriad of factors that are reshaping the way we approach healthcare delivery. Here's a snapshot of the key trends and opportunities:

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞: With a growing emphasis on preventive care, primary care providers are playing a pivotal role in early diagnosis and management of chronic diseases.

𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐦: The pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, making primary care more accessible and convenient for patients across the nation.

𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐬: There is a significant shift towards value-based care models that prioritize patient outcomes and cost-efficiency over traditional fee-for-service models.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲: From electronic health records to AI-driven diagnostic tools, technology is enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of primary care services.

𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝: As the population ages and chronic diseases become more prevalent, the demand for primary care professionals continues to rise, highlighting the need for more training programs and incentives.

𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭-𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 (𝐏𝐂𝐌𝐇𝐬): PCMHs are transforming the primary care landscape by offering coordinated, comprehensive care that addresses the whole person rather than just individual symptoms.

𝐌𝐚𝐣𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐬: The U.S. primary care industry comprises of various key players such as Centura Health, Access Healthcare, Walgreens Boots Alliance, VillageMD, UnitedHealth Group, Agilon Health, Privia Health, Aledade, Consumer Value Store (CVS) Health, Centene Corporation and others.

𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: https://www.nextmsc.com/report/us-primary-care-market

The U.S. Primary Care Market is at a crucial juncture, presenting numerous opportunities for innovation and improvement. As we navigate these changes, the focus remains on providing high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered care to all.

[healixhospitals24]

Gain insights on navigating digestive health from top medical gastroenterologists in Hyderabad. Explore expert advice for optimal gastrointestinal wellness

Do Visit: https://www.healixhospitals.com/blogs/navigating-digestive-health:-insights-from-top-medical-gastroenterologists-in-hyderabad

[amitkakkarhealthyway]

(via 10 Body Signs that You Should Never Ignore: All You Need to Know)

[shortglobalnews]

Unveiling the Threat: Understanding the Plague and Its Transmission

[tatumeyecare5]

5 Things An Eye Exam Can Tell About Your Health: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Embark on a journey through the fascinating revelations that a routine eye exam can unveil about your overall health. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the significant aspects that make your eyes not just windows to the soul but revealing indicators of your physical well-being.

Understanding Eye Health

The Gateway to Overall Well-being    

Discover how the eyes serve as a portal, reflecting the state of your body. An eye exam can reveal signs of systemic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, allowing for early intervention and preventive measures.

Nutritional Clues in the Eyes

Unravel the nutritional secrets your eyes hold. From vitamin deficiencies to the impact of a balanced diet, explore how your eyes can provide insights into your nutritional health.

Detecting Chronic Conditions

Diabetes: Silent Signs in the Eyes

Delve into the connection between diabetes and your eyes. Learn how subtle changes in the eyes can serve as early indicators of this widespread and often silent health condition.

Hypertension's Telltale Signs

Explore the correlation between high blood pressure and eye health. Understand how an eye exam can uncover signs of hypertension, guiding you towards proactive health management.

Unveiling Mental and Emotional Well-being

Stress and Its Reflection in the Eyes

Navigate the intricate link between stress and ocular health. Discover how the eyes can mirror the effects of stress and provide insights into your mental and emotional well-being.

Digital Eye Strain: A Modern Dilemma

Explore the impact of screen time on eye health. Learn how a routine eye exam can identify signs of digital eye strain, offering solutions for a more comfortable digital lifestyle.

Specialized Insights

Beyond 20/20 Vision

Delve into the nuances of eye exams that go beyond traditional visual acuity tests. Understand how specialized assessments can uncover subtle issues, providing a comprehensive understanding of your eye health.

Age-Related Conditions: What Your Eyes Reveal

Explore the aging process through the lens of your eyes. From cataracts to macular degeneration, discover how an eye exam can shed light on age-related conditions.

5 Things An Eye Exam Can Tell About Your Health

1. Cardiovascular Health

Your eyes may hold clues to your heart health. Learn how changes in blood vessels and cholesterol deposits can be indicative of cardiovascular issues.

2. Autoimmune Disorders

Uncover the connections between eye health and autoimmune disorders. Explore how conditions like rheumatoid arthritis may manifest in ocular symptoms.

3. Liver Health

Surprising as it may seem, your eyes can offer insights into liver health. Understand the signs that may indicate liver conditions during an eye exam.

4. Neurological Conditions

Delve into the neurological aspects of eye health. Discover how conditions like multiple sclerosis may present symptoms that can be detected through an eye examination.

5. Hormonal Imbalances

Explore the delicate balance between hormones and eye health. Learn how hormonal changes can manifest in the eyes, offering clues to underlying imbalances.

FAQs About Eye Exams

What should I expect during a comprehensive eye exam?

A comprehensive eye exam involves various tests, including visual acuity, eye pressure, and a thorough examination of the eye's internal and external structures.

How often should I get an eye exam?

For adults, a comprehensive eye exam every two years is recommended. However, individuals with specific eye conditions or risk factors may need more frequent exams.

Can an eye exam detect diabetes?

Yes, an eye exam can reveal signs of diabetes, such as changes in blood vessels and the presence of blood or yellowish fluid in the retina.

Are eye exams only for vision correction?

No, eye exams are crucial for overall health assessment. They can detect various eye and systemic conditions, even if you don't have noticeable vision issues.

Can eye exams detect brain tumors?

While not a definitive diagnostic tool, certain signs observed during an eye exam may prompt further neurological investigation for conditions like brain tumors.

Is it possible to prevent age-related eye conditions?

While some age-related conditions may be inevitable, a healthy lifestyle, regular eye exams, and protective measures against UV rays can contribute to eye health.

Conclusion: Your Eyes, Your Health Compass

In conclusion, your eyes are more than just windows to the soul—they are intricate indicators of your overall health. Regular eye exams not only ensure optimal vision but also offer a comprehensive understanding of your well-being. Embrace the insights they provide, and take proactive steps towards a healthier, happier life.

Tatum Eyecare is North Phoenix’s premier family eye care center. We’ve spared no expense to create the most pleasant, comfortable patient experience… including the finest furnishings, the best selection of prescription eyeglass frames, the most cutting-edge technology, and the most outstanding team of industry professionals. Come see why the choice for family eye care in the Valley has never been clearer.

[gastroenterologist]

Unlock the secrets of optimal gastrointestinal health with our in-depth guide on "The Role of Endoscopy." Delve into the comprehensive overview to understand how endoscopy plays a pivotal role in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal issues. Empower yourself with knowledge for a healthier digestive future.

[jcmarchi]

Brain Circuit Controls Aversion to Salty Tastes - Technology Org

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/brain-circuit-controls-aversion-to-salty-tastes-technology-org/

Brain Circuit Controls Aversion to Salty Tastes - Technology Org

Sodium in the form of table salt helps make French fries a tasty snack and bacon a delicious indulgence, but it is also a vital nutrient for the proper functioning of our bodies, playing a role in the movement of your muscles, the signalling of your neurons, and many other important processes.

Image credit: Caltech

Having the right amount of sodium in your body is so crucial that parts of your brain work hard to ensure you’re getting the salt you need. If a sudden craving for potato chips has ever hit you, that may have been your brain at work. On the other hand, if you’re thirsty, salted snacks might sound like the last thing you to eat.

Now, new research from Caltech scientists is showing us more about how the brain regulates when the flavor of salt is yuck or yum.

“Low sodium concentration is palatable, while higher concentrations—for example, ocean water—taste disgusting,” says Yuki Oka, Professor of Biology and Heritage Medical Research Institute Investigator. “But when you’re really in need of salt, you don’t mind the bad taste. The palatability or ‘tastiness’ of salt changes based on its concentration and the body’s internal sodium need.”

Yuki Oka. Credit: Caltech

The body meticulously regulates blood sodium levels to stay within a narrow range of 135 to 145 millimolar. This is accomplished through precise control of salt consumption and retention. To keep sodium levels precisely balanced, the brain must control both attraction and aversion to salt. 

In 2019, researchers in the Oka lab discovered the brain circuit that drives cravings for salt in mice. Stimulating these “salt-appetite” neurons, located at the base of the skull in a region called the hindbrain, triggered an immediate appetite for salty food. But the mechanisms regulating an aversion to salty tastes remained unanswered.

New findings from the Oka lab reveal a distinct neural circuit in the mouse brain responsible for regulating tolerance towards the negative taste associated with sodium. These neurons are located in the forebrain, far from the salt-appetite neurons.

Salt. Image credit: Marek Kupiec via Pexels, free license.

Unlike the previously identified salt-appetite neurons, activation of the tolerance neurons does not prompt active seeking of sodium. Instead, activity of these neurons enables mice to accept or tolerate high levels of salt that would usually be aversive, in order to efficiently replete sodium levels in the body.

Blocking the tolerance neurons results in mice rejecting aversive salt, even if low on sodium. The simultaneous operation of forebrain tolerance and hindbrain appetite circuits is crucial for maintaining sodium levels within the body.

The researchers found that the tolerance neurons are not directly connected to the salt appetite neurons, and appear to function independently. How, then, does the body regulate the activity of the newly discovered circuits?

The new study shows that, intriguingly, the tolerance neurons have receptors for the hormone prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on their surfaces, suggesting that their activity is modulated by this hormone circulating through the bloodstream. This is a novel revelation—prostaglandin, commonly associated with inflammation, was not previously linked to sodium intake.

According to Yameng Zhang, a graduate student in the Oka lab and the lead author of the new study, “This unexpected association between prostaglandin and sodium consumption raises important questions regarding how an inflammatory state might influence sodium intake, offering new insights into the interplay between sodium levels and the body’s pro-inflammatory condition.”

Written by Lori Dajose

Source: Caltech

You can offer your link to a page which is relevant to the topic of this post.