The recent unanimous endorsement by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) regarding the adjustment of the meningococcal group B vaccine MenB-4C (Bexsero) is a significant development in public health, particularly for adolescents and young adults. This decision reflects ongoing concerns regarding serogroup B meningococcal disease, which can be exceptionally aggressive and life-threatening. Meningococcal
Health
The healthcare sector, while intended to promote well-being and health for all, is often riddled with troubling practices. Recent investigative reports have shed light on distinct yet interconnected issues: the business of conspiracy theories in alternative wellness, unethical pressures from healthcare giants, and aggressive billing tactics that burden patients disproportionately. This article delves into these
The experience of working with individuals at the end of their lives offers profound insights into what truly matters. In my capacity as a hospice social worker and death doula, I have encountered a diverse range of people, each with unique life experiences, but sharing a commonality in their reflections as they near death. These
In recent years, the exploration of various health factors has unveiled several surprising connections, particularly between hearing loss and the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. An extensive study involving the health records of over 3.5 million U.S. military veterans suggested a clear correlation: the severity of hearing loss shows a direct, dose-dependent relationship with the
Cataract surgery is a frequently performed procedure aimed at restoring vision in individuals suffering from cataracts, which cloud the eye’s natural lens. While the primary goal is the improvement of visual acuity and consequently the quality of life, recent research has highlighted an intriguing correlation between cataract surgery and a decrease in traumatic injuries, particularly
Recent reports from U.S. health officials have brought to light a significant spike in whooping cough cases, officially known as pertussis, marking the highest levels observed in the early part of the year since 2014. As of now, over 18,500 cases have been documented, prompting health experts to raise red flags regarding public health trends.
The evaluation of new antiviral medications is crucial in public health, particularly for emerging infectious diseases. The recent findings from the PALM007 trial unveiled that the antiviral drug tecovirimat (commercially known as Tpoxx) did not significantly affect the duration of mpox lesions or mortality rates in patients, including both children and adults, suffering from clade
Breast cancer constitutes a significant health challenge, particularly for women who encounter various risk factors, including hormonal contraceptives. A recent Danish registry study has ignited discussions regarding the potential association between levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) and breast cancer risk among women under 50. This novel research reveals that women utilizing these hormonal contraceptives may face
Recent advancements in medical research have led to significant changes in the field of organ transplantation, particularly concerning the use of organs from donors with HIV. An observational study, conducted by Dr. Christine Durand and her colleagues at Johns Hopkins Medicine, has unveiled compelling evidence that kidney transplants from donors with HIV are as safe
In a critical juncture for the U.S. healthcare system, a substantial group of 233 House members is advocating for reforms within the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS). This drive comes in response to a proposed 2.8% cut, underscoring the need for immediate legislative action to avert adverse consequences for both healthcare providers and patients. The