>> A blood test to screen for Alzheimer’s
>> Women’s health: cancer, contraception
>> A risk with eczema
>> A fungal surprise
>> Is your job killing you?
The Med & Mic™ 1.22.24 – 1.26.24
A medical news blog post
from the author of “Scoop, MD”
This Week In Medical News
In medical advancement news…
Blood Test for Alzheimer’s Disease
A blood test can be just as accurate as spinal fluid analysis and brain scans in identifying Alzheimer’s disease. In a Swedish study, researchers tested blood samples for a specific protein, phosphorylated tau, or p-tau. The test, which was 97% accurate, could be used to screen Alzheminer’s disease with high accuracy even before symptoms show. Early treatment could be more effective. Currently, the blood test is available in the research setting, but could be used clinically soon. (CNN, J. Howard, 1.22.24)
In women’s health news…
Cervical Cancer Up for Women in 30s and 40s
While cervical cancer rates are falling fastest for women in their early 20s, diagnoses are up 2% per year for women in their 30s and early 40s. Women in their 20s are the first generation to benefit from the HPV vaccine. Less cervical cancer screening for women who just missed out on the vaccine could play a role in the higher rates. (NBC News, L.Szabo, 1.20.24)
A Boost for Reproductive Healthcare Measures
The government announced new steps to ensure access to contraception, emergency abortions at hospitals, and abortion medication. Health agencies are issuing guidance to private insurers to cover a broad range of contraceptives. Health and Human Services is bolstering the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, which requires hospitals to provide emergency abortion to stabilize patients even in states where abortion is banned. (The Hill, N. Weixel, 1.22.24)
Also in health and medical news…
Eczema Raises Risk for Asthma Hospitalization
People with atopic dermatitis, or eczema, have a higher risk of asthma and hospitalization than those without the dry, itchy skin condition. The risk was greater for those with more severe eczema. Children with the condition had twice the risk for new-onset asthma, and they were 65% more likely to be hospitalized for asthma. Adults also had a similar pattern. (Healio, R. Gawel, 1.23.24)
A Rare Fungus Expands Its Reach
A rare soil fungus, blastomycosis, has been making people sick in surprising places, such as Vermont. Infections have mostly been around the Great Lakes, the Ohio River Valley, and the Mississippi River Valley. Blastomycosis can cause respiratory symptoms, fever, and body aches. The disease is not reportable, but the unusual locations were picked up from insurance claims data. (NBC News, K. Sullivan, 1.24.24)
Your Job and Death
People who predominantly sit at work have a 16% higher risk of death from all causes and a 34% higher risk of a heart-related death. People with desk jobs would have to exercise an additional 15 to 30 minutes a day to counteract the risk. (CNN, K. Better, 1.25.24)
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.