Author Interviews, Ophthalmology, Technology / 16.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof Alfonso Savastano Ospedale Generale Regionale “F. Miulli” - Acquaviva delle Fonti (BA) and Libera Università Mediterranea Degennaro (L.U.M.)- Casamassima (BA)  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The SING IMT® (Smaller-Incision New-Generation Implantable Miniature Telescope) is a novel, intraocular device for people blinded in the central vision by late-stage, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of unpreventable blindness. It is approved for use in CE referenced countries and under investigation in the United States. Our study evaluated the intermediate-term visual and safety outcomes of the SING IMT in patients (n=35) 55 years and older at 6 months post-surgery and found that SING IMT implantation improved distance and near vision, with an expected impact on the corneal endothelium cell density and manageable safety outcomes. Key findings include:
  • At six months post-surgery, at least 1-, 2-, and 3-line gains in best-corrected distance (BCDVA) were achieved in 97.1 percent, 68.6 percent and 51.4 percent of operated eyes, respectively
  • The percentage of patients able to read at near distance increased from 28.6 percent at baseline to 97.1 percent at six months.
  • The study also found that corrected near visual acuity was also significantly improved by ⁓3 lines at 6 months post-surgery.
  • The mean (SD) change from baseline in corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) at six months in operated eyes was -280.7 (315.9) cells/mm2 (-11.4 %). This is a result similar to that seen with standard cataract surgery.
  • The most frequent adverse event was corneal edema, and all cases were resolved with topical medications.
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Author Interviews, Psychological Science / 16.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Xinyang Yu, PhD Candidate Institute of Psychiatry Psychology & Neuroscience King’s College London MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This study explores how genetics, brain development, and mental health work together to influence eating behaviours in young people. By analysing data from nearly 1,000 adolescents, we investigated the relationships between eating behaviours, genetic predispositions for high BMI, and changes in brain structure and mental health from ages 14 to 23. The aim was to understand why disordered eating behaviours, such as restrictive dieting or emotional overeating, often emerge alongside mental health issues during adolescence—a time when eating disorders are increasingly common. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 15.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Vishal A Shetty, MS, PhD Candidate Center for Pharmacy and Innovation Outcomes, Geisinger University of Massachusetts AmherstVishal A Shetty, MS, PhD Candidate Center for Pharmacy and Innovation Outcomes, Geisinger University of Massachusetts Amherst MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: With more U.S. states moving toward the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis, recent studies have explored electronic health record (EHR) documentation to understand the nature of cannabis use among patient populations. However, these efforts have not been extended to patient portal messaging, which allows patients to describe health-related behaviors in ways that may not be sufficiently captured in standard EHR documentation. The primary objective of this study was to identify patient and provider secure messages that discussed cannabis and contextualize these discussions over periods prior to and after its legalization for medical purposes in Pennsylvania. (more…)
Author Interviews / 13.01.2025

routine-foot-care.jpg   Foot pain or dry, cracked heels often disrupt comfort and daily routines. Neglecting foot health can lead to discomfort, infections, and long-term issues. These challenges affect mobility and reduce overall well-being, especially without consistent care. Common foot problems often go unnoticed, worsening over time.   Routine foot care by a foot specialist plays a critical role in improving foot health and preventing serious issues. Regular preventive maintenance helps avoid infections, reduces discomfort, and promotes better mobility. It contributes significantly to overall health and ensures long-lasting comfort in daily activities.   This article offers practical insights into routine foot care for maintaining healthy feet. Simple, consistent care practices can prevent common problems and enhance foot health for all individuals. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Herpes Viruses / 08.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Or Shemesh PhD The Harvey M. Krueger Family Center for Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology School of Pharmacy - Institute for Drug Research The Hebrew University of Jerusalem MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study investigated the connection between herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathologies. We explored how HSV-1 proteins are present in the brains of individuals with AD and examined their interactions with tau, a key protein in AD pathology. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  The main finding is that tau, traditionally seen as detrimental, might initially act as a protective response to HSV-1 by reducing neuronal death through an antiviral innate immunity pathway called cGAS-STING . Over time, this (initially beneficial) antiviral response of tau can manifest as the well established tau toxicity in Alzheimer's disease. (more…)
Author Interviews, Disability Research, Pediatrics / 08.01.2025

Author Bio: Lorraine Culpo is a dedicated writer with a focus on healthcare, disability advocacy, and family well-being. With a passion for shedding light on the importance of early pediatric support, she aims to empower readers with insights into how comprehensive care can shape brighter futures for children with disabilities. pediatric-care-academic-support.jpg Pediatric care plays an essential role in helping children grow and develop, especially those living with disabilities. Through early support, medical care, and learning resources, pediatric care improves children’s outcomes and builds a foundation for a more inclusive society. Understanding how pediatric care shapes disability support can help families, educators, and healthcare providers create an environment where every child can thrive.

Early Support Changes Lives

Early support services can make a big difference for children with disabilities. When doctors and specialists spot developmental challenges early, children can get help sooner. This early start allows them to build important skills at key stages of growth. For example, speech therapy can help a child with delayed language skills improve their ability to communicate. Physical therapy can help children with motor challenges gain strength and coordination. These interventions work best when they begin as early as possible, which increases the chances that children will meet milestones that lead to more independence. In many cases, NDIS treatment plans for children ensure that the support they receive is tailored to their specific developmental and medical requirements. It provides a structured approach that aligns with their long-term goals. (more…)
Author Interviews / 02.01.2025

Please note: Supplements are generally not FDA tested or approved. Some supplements can interfere with medications and/or cause side effects. Do not delay seeking medical attention for medical concerns by taking supplements without medical advice. Please discuss any and all supplements you take with your health care provider and be sure to follow your provider’s recommendations for your prostate and overall health. Supplements should not be given to children, breast feeding or pregnant women without the specific advice or your medical provider.   Have you ever felt like you’re constantly battling colds or other illnesses? Whether it’s the flu season, allergy season, or just the daily grind, your immune system works hard to keep you healthy. Your immune system is your body’s defense system, protecting you from harmful germs, bacteria, and viruses. A strong immune system helps you recover quickly, while a weak one leaves you feeling run-down. Keeping your immune system strong year-round isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about forming healthy habits and giving your body the support it needs. By making smart choices with your diet, lifestyle, and stress management, you can boost your immune health and feel your best. In this blog, we will share practical ways to support your immune system and stay healthy throughout the year.

Eat a Balanced and Nutrient-Rich Diet

If you want a stronger immune system, start with what’s on your plate. Your body needs vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to fight off illness. Focus on adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to your meals. Foods like citrus fruits, berries, spinach, nuts, and chicken give you key nutrients like vitamins C, D, and E, plus zinc. These help keep your body ready to defend you. Eating a balanced diet doesn’t have to be complicated—stick to simple, whole foods, and your body will thank you.

Support Your Gut Health

A large part of your immune function is located in your digestive tract. When your gut is healthy, your body can better fight off harmful invaders. Probiotics, prebiotics, and supplements that support your gut lining can help maintain a healthy immune system. Using supplements like Mega Mucosa can help support a healthy mucosal barrier, which is essential for strong immune defenses. This supplement contains ingredients that promote microbial diversity and help maintain the gut lining. At places like Lakeland Drug Company, you can find products designed to give your immune system the support it needs. They provide trusted options to help you care for your immune health year-round. (more…)
Author Interviews, Technology / 01.01.2025

advancing field medicine Field medicine has changed greatly over the years. The focus has been on creating faster, more efficient, and easier-to-use healthcare tools. Portable medical systems are especially important because they help provide immediate care during emergencies, natural disasters, and military operations. These advancements are making a big difference in how healthcare professionals handle challenges in remote areas for tactical combat casualty care. Portable systems are improving response times and saving lives. This article looks at some of the key innovations and what they mean for the future.

Why Portable Medical Systems Matter

In emergencies, having portable medical devices can save lives. Lightweight and compact equipment allows healthcare teams to reach places where traditional machines cannot go. These tools ensure that doctors and nurses can deliver care even in remote locations or areas with little infrastructure. Portable ultrasound machines, for instance, help healthcare workers see real-time images of injuries or conditions without needing a hospital setting. In emergency zones, an army medical tent equipped with these devices can serve as a lifesaving center and help provide rapid assessments and care. Similarly, handheld ECG devices let providers monitor heart activity during transport. These tools are not only smaller but also built to last in tough environments. (more…)
Author Interviews, Nutrition, Prostate Cancer / 29.12.2024

By Dr. Dan Sperling M.D., D.A.B.R. Medical Director and Chief of Interventional Uroradiology at the Sperling Prostate Center in Florida Medical Director of its parent practice, the Sperling Medical Group If the name Dr. Dean Ornish rings a bell, it’s probably because over 30 years ago he became the poster boy for preventing heart disease through diet and exercise. His 1990 book, “Dr. Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease,” made the NYTimes best seller list. To this day, when we think of Dr. Ornish, we think of a long and heart-healthy life. Although we don’t link Dr. Ornish with prostate health, there’s good reason to do so—but most men don’t know it. In 2008, the National Academy of Sciences published research  by Dr. Ornish and his team in an article titled “Changes in prostate gene expression in men undergoing an intensive nutrition and lifestyle intervention.” They broke new ground in our understanding of preventing prostate cancer (PCa). Dr. Ornish and his team showed that a comprehensive lifestyle program they designed actually caused changes in gene regulation. They designed an experimental lifestyle protocol and tested is on 30 PCa patients; all 30 had been diagnosed with low-risk PCa and were on Active Surveillance (no other treatment). At the start of the 3-month study, each patient’s biopsy samples were used to profile his PCa gene activity. Then all participants adhered faithfully to the following protocol:
  • A vegan (plant-based) diet (with 10% of calories from fat
  • Physical activity (walking 30 minutes a day for 6 days a week)
  • Stress reduction (yoga, progressive relaxation, breathing, meditation)
  • Dietary supplements (vitamins C and E, soy, fish oil, selenium)
  • A weekly support group to provide advice and sustain adherence to the program.
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Author Interviews / 26.12.2024

Chronic illness management has grown easier due to technological developments and inventive treatments. From wearable gadgets to real-time health tracking, technology is changing the way patients receive treatment. These advancements enable people to monitor and control their health proactively from home. As healthcare providers adopt these tools, patient outcomes improve, and the burden on facilities decreases. With a focus on seamless communication, digital health tools foster stronger doctor-patient relationships.  In this article, we will explore how technology is revolutionizing chronic disease management, focusing on its practical applications and benefits. Let’s discuss five key ways technology is driving change. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Lymphoma, Nutrition, University of Pennsylvania / 24.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Shan Liu, PhD, Postdoctoral fellow Perelman School of Medicine University of Pennsylvania MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study provides evidence that the efficacy of CAR T cell immunotherapies can be influenced by an important lifestyle factor: diet.   MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  Our study found that a ketogenic diet can enhance CAR T cell function through its metabolite, β-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB). Importantly, instead of altering the diet, providing BHB via oral supplementation in our preclinical model is sufficient to improve the anti-tumor function of CAR T cells. However, it's important to note that we’re still in the early stages, and we’re not yet recommending any dietary changes or supplements for patients. (more…)
Author Interviews, Clots - Coagulation, Environmental Risks / 17.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Pamela L Lutsey PhD, MPH Professor, Division of Epidemiology & Community Health University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Air pollution is ubiquitous. In order to understand the impact of exposure on health, it is necessary to look across diverse health conditions. Associations with lung disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are more established. Less is known about the role of air pollution exposure on coagulation and venous thromboembolism (VTE). MedicalResearch.com: Are individuals less ambulatory in heavily polluted areas? The study did not address this question directly. The association did persist across a wide range of subgroups of the sample, including those who were not smokers and who had no evidence of lung disease. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Exercise - Fitness, Hematology / 16.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Janine Joseph, MS, MBA Senior Research Specialist Cancer Prevention & Control Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, NY MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Due to improvements in treatments, patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are experiencing longer lifespans and seeking ways to enhance their quality-of-life.  Fatigue, pain and negative psychological states such as anxiety and depression are common in cancer patients, including patients with MM.  Pain is particularly relevant, as MM can cause painful osteolytic (bone) lesions. The trials we discussed at ASH were aimed at evaluating the effect of exercise, specifically supervised resistance training and unsupervised walking exercise, on these and other states, including physical function and immune profile. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Biomarkers / 11.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Alberto J. Espay, MD, MSc, FAAN Professor of Neurology Director and Endowed Chair Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's disease and Movement Disorders University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings Response:  Because aducanumab, lecanemab, and donanemab were only in a minority of anti-amyloid treatments showing a benefit, I was interested in finding out what makes them special. It turns out that they not only clean the brain from amyloid, like other monoclonal anti-Aβ antibodies, but they also increase Aβ42 in the spinal fluid, which is a measure of the normal protein in the brain. Everyone with Alzheimer’s has low Aβ42 levels because this protein clumps into amyloid plaques. I tested the hypothesis that increasing Aβ42 could explain the cognitive outcomes at least as well as decreasing amyloid, and that’s exactly what we found. This suggests that restoring the normal protein levels, Aβ42, may explain why some anti-amyloid treatments (presumably those that increased those levels the most) come with benefits. (more…)
Author Interviews, Medical Imaging / 05.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Miriam A. Bredella, MD, MBA Bernard and Irene Schwartz Professor of Radiology & Vice Chair for Strategy Associate Dean for Translational Science Director, Clinical and Translational Science Institute NYU Grossman School of Medicine NYU Langone Health Translational Research Building 743 New York, NY 10016   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We perform >80 million CTs every year in the US, and there is a lot of information on these CTs that is not used and “thrown away.” Opportunistic imaging or opportunistic screening with the help of AI takes advantage of this information and automatically detects and quantifies vascular calcification, bone mineral density, abdominal fat or muscle mass. In our study, we wanted to detect whether calcification of the abdominal aorta, quantified using AI, could predict coronary artery calcification and major cardiovascular events (e.g. myocardial infarction, cardiac revascularization, stroke, or death). (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, NEJM, NIH, OBGYNE / 05.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Diana W. Bianchi, M.D. Senior Investigator Center for Precision Health Research Director, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development National Institutes of Health MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The ability of prenatal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) sequencing to incidentally detect maternal cancers has been demonstrated by several retrospective studies from commercial or national laboratories. However, there are no standardized approaches to the identification and medical management of prenatal screening results that might indicate a maternal cancer. We sought to prospectively identify DNA sequencing patterns and other biomarkers that could distinguish which women with nonreportable or unusual cfDNA sequencing results had cancer and to determine the best approach for diagnostic work-up of pregnant people who receive these results. (more…)
Author Interviews, OBGYNE / 04.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: John W. AyersJohn W. Ayers, PhD, MA Altman Clinical Translational Research Institute University of California San Diego, La Jolla MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) are frequently at the center of news and policy debates, yet little data exists about where they operate or what they actually do. To address this gap, we developed ChoiceWatch.org, a tool that systematically collected and analyzed over 470,000 webpages from CPC websites. In our study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, we used ChoiceWatch.org, to answer fundamental questions, such as how many crisis pregnancy centers operate in the U.S., where they are located, and what services they advertise. (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Mental Health Research, Pulmonary Disease / 30.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sean B. Fain, Ph.D. Professor and Vice Chair for Research Department of Radiology Affiliate Appointments BME and ECE University of Iowa Iowa City, IA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This study uses MRI to investigate connections between lung and brain function. We employ an advanced MRI technique that uses hyperpolarized xenon gas as a contrast agent. This approach allows us to image which parts of the lung are effectively inhaling xenon gas and which parts are not (i.e. ventilation). Additionally, xenon provides insights into lung gas exchange (i.e. oxygen transfer into and out of the blood), as it freely diffuses into alveolar tissue and binds to red blood cells. Using this technology, we hypothesized that the severity of lung injury in individuals with Long COVID would correlate with the degree of cognitive dysfunction and brain imaging. (more…)
addiction-treatment, Alcohol, Author Interviews / 29.11.2024

For Emergency assistance with mental health or addiction crisis please go to: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline Alcohol addiction, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), remains a pervasive global issue, affecting millions of lives. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that alcohol abuse contributes to over 3 million deaths annually, making it one of the leading preventable causes of death worldwide. Understanding the root causes of alcohol addiction is crucial - not merely for academic purposes but for developing effective prevention strategies and treatment approaches. Experts and researchers have proposed multiple theories to explain the onset of addiction, ranging from biological predispositions to sociocultural influences, each offering unique insights into why addiction develops. This article will explore key theoretical models, their underlying frameworks, and their contributions to our understanding of alcohol addiction. Additionally, it will address emerging research, critiques of existing theories, and their practical application in addiction treatment. (more…)
Author Interviews, Protein, Weight Research / 28.11.2024

    Protein is a fundamental nutrient that plays a vital role in weight loss and appetite regulation. Understanding how protein affects these areas can help optimize dietary strategies for better health outcomes. From influencing hunger hormones to boosting metabolism, protein’s role in the body is multifaceted and powerful.

How Protein Influences Appetite

One of protein’s standout benefits is its ability to enhance feelings of fullness, also known as satiety. When you consume protein-rich foods, your body releases appetite-suppressing hormones such as peptide YY and GLP-1, which signal your brain to reduce hunger. In contrast, diets low in protein may leave individuals feeling hungrier, leading to overeating or increased snacking. This is why many weight loss programs emphasize incorporating high-protein meals and snacks to curb cravings and improve adherence to calorie-controlled plans. (more…)
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Surgical Research / 27.11.2024

Anterior Cervical Discectomy Surgery While anterior cervical discectomy surgery has become a widely accepted and frequently performed procedure to relieve spinal cord or nerve root compression, it is not without potential risks and complications. These can range from common surgical risks, such as infection, to more procedure-specific complications like nerve damage, dural tears, and the possibility of recurrent disc herniation. As there is a critical need for increased awareness and understanding of these challenges, it is essential to engage in a thorough exploration of the potential outcomes and their management tactics.

Understanding Anterior Cervical Discectomy

The anterior cervical discectomy is a surgical procedure that warrants comprehension due to its complex nature. This surgical technique involves the removal of an intervertebral disc or a portion of this disc from the neck area, specifically in the anterior cervical spine. It is typically performed to alleviate spinal cord or nerve root pressure, leading to considerable pain relief and functional improvement. The procedure is often paired with a fusion to stabilize the spine. The recovery timeline varies for each individual depending upon factors like age, overall health status, and the severity of the disc problem. However, the immediate postoperative recovery period typically lasts for a few hours to a few days, during which time patients are closely monitored. Subsequent recovery, involving physical therapy and gradual return to normal activities, can stretch from several weeks to a few months. Though the anterior cervical discectomy is generally regarded as a safe and effective procedure, it is not devoid of risks. Potential complications include infection, nerve damage, difficulties swallowing or speaking, and issues related to the graft or hardware used in fusion. The understanding of these risks is paramount for patients undergoing this procedure. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Mental Health Research / 22.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Belén Blasco PhD Student in Neuroscience - MD Psychiatry Clinical and Translational Sciences (CaTS) Lab Integrated Program in Neuroscience McGill University | Douglas Research Centre Montreal, Canada MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our research is centered on uncovering the early brain changes that might contribute to psychosis development. Using innovative brain imaging techniques, we aimed to measure synapsis in individuals with early psychotic symptoms or who are considered at high clinical risk. Synapses are the crucial points of connection between neurons, allowing communication across the brain. A key aspect of our study was to understand how lifestyle factors, like cannabis use, might impact these brain changes, particularly since cannabis consumption has been associated with an increased risk of developing psychosis in young people. (more…)
Author Interviews, Orthopedics, Pain Research, Surgical Research / 20.11.2024

Discussion and Explanation of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery by: Brent A. Felix, M.D Spine Surgery, Bone & Joint Surgery Salt Lake Orthopaedic Clinic Suite 4050 Salt Lake City, UT 84124 and Alpine Orthopaedic Specialists North Logan, UT 8434  

Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) has become a game changer in orthopedic surgery, offering patients safer and less painful options for treating spinal issues. Dr. Brent Felix, a leading orthopedic spine surgeon, is at the forefront of this movement, advocating for these innovative techniques that provide multiple benefits over traditional methods.

What Is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

Minimally invasive spine surgery, or MISS, is a technique that allows surgeons to address spine conditions with much smaller incisions compared to traditional surgery. Rather than making large cuts to access the spine, Dr. Felix and his team use special instruments and imaging tools to perform surgery through small incisions. These tools include tiny cameras or endoscopes, which provide a clear view of the spine without the need for large openings.

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Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Leukemia, Personalized Medicine / 12.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Professor Ong Sin Tiong Cancer & Stem Cell Biology Signature Research Programme Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore Dr Yu Mengge Research Fellow, Cancer & Stem Cell Biology Signature Research Programme Duke-NUS Medical School MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The background of this study is rooted in the observation that certain genetic variations among East Asian populations, notably the BIM deletion polymorphism (BDP), impact treatment outcomes in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Patients with the BDP show resistance to conventional treatments, specifically tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib. This resistance stems from the variant's role in promoting cancer cell survival, which leads to more aggressive disease progression. (more…)
Author Interviews, Pharmacology / 12.11.2024

medical medicine box You might have noticed the key details mentioned on medical medicine boxes whenever you pick them up from a pharmacy. Information, precautions, symbols, and brand details mentioned on these boxes are important for individuals who are going to consume these medicines. Custom medicine boxes thus serve as an effective means of conveying the desired insights to the exact audience who is going to benefit from the relevant medicines for curing their specific health issues. Brands make sure to keep the details mentioned on medical medicine boxes highly relevant and assure the safety of individuals at all times while keeping them informed of the right dose of the medicine they are going to consume. This post explores how important are these custom packaging solutions for your pharmaceutical brand and what are the key features of medical medicine boxes. (more…)
Author Interviews, Lyme / 08.11.2024

    Own a dog? Then your vet must have shared a thing or two about the risks of ticks and even warned you about Lyme disease.  But is your furry friend only at risk of this bacterial infection? You’re wrong if you think so. Humans can also get Lyme disease if a black-legged tick carrying the borrelia bacteria bites them. Just recently, the comedian and actress Miranda Hart opened up about how she struggled with chronic fatigue syndrome after she was diagnosed with Lyme disease.  Many other famous people say they have been struck by this tick-borne bacterial infection. Those include Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Yolanda Hadid and her daughter, model Bella Hadid, comic Amy Schumer, actor Ben Stiller, and singer Justin Bieber.  As high-profile names share their struggles, awareness of Lyme is spreading fast. But so are the myths. So, let’s separate the facts from the fiction surrounding this disease.

Myth #1: Lyme Disease Is Only a Problem in the Northeast

The Northeast does see a lot of Lyme disease cases, and that is mainly because it has a high population of black-legged ticks. But it is not confined to New England.   Lyme-carrying ticks can be found across much of the United States, especially in the upper Midwest and along the West Coast. In 2022, the largest number of Lyme disease cases were reported in the Middle Atlantic region—New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.  There has also been a rapid surge in the number of cases in the northern New England states of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, reports Mount Sinai.  So, why the misconception? Part of it comes down to awareness—doctors in the Northeast are more used to spotting it, which can lead to better diagnosis rates. Meanwhile, in other areas, this bacterial infection might be misdiagnosed or underreported, which is why it flies under the radar.  (more…)
Author Interviews, Neurology, Sexual Health, STD / 06.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sagar S. Patel, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509 MedicalResearch.com: What was the background for this research? Response: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by a gram-negative bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This infection promotes the cell death of microglia and can cause a variety of symptoms. It is commonly observed in developing countries such as sub-Saharan Africa. Neurosyphilis is a complication of syphilis that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS undergoes multiple stages of deterioration and can include personality changes and hearing abnormalities. Diagnosing neurosyphilis is challenging because its symptoms mimic other neurodegenerative diseases. Diagnosis relies on clinical studies, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and neuroimaging techniques. (more…)