All articles tagged with #disease management
Beech leaf disease, caused by a microscopic nematode, is rapidly spreading across 15 U.S. states and Ontario, threatening both native and European beech trees, which are vital to forest ecosystems. Researchers are exploring various control methods, including chemical treatments and forest management practices, to combat the disease and preserve these important trees.
Julie Stamm shares her journey with multiple sclerosis (MS), from the challenges of diagnosis to the ongoing battle with the unpredictable disease. Despite the difficulties, she finds strength in the support of her loving family and the MS community. Stamm remains hopeful for advancements in treatments and a cure, while striving to be the best version of herself and a dedicated mother. Her story is part of the MS Community Spotlight campaign for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its 2023 Essential Diagnostics List (EDL), which includes new recommendations for hepatitis E virus (HEV) tests and personal use glucose meters. The addition of HEV tests aims to aid in the diagnosis and surveillance of HEV infection, which can cause acute liver failure and is particularly dangerous for pregnant women. Including personal glucose monitoring devices on the list could lead to better disease management and improved outcomes for diabetes patients. The Essential Diagnostics List provides a policy framework for countries to improve access to in vitro diagnostics and make informed decisions about national diagnostic choices.
Psychiatric issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, may be early indicators of multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a study from the University of British Columbia. These symptoms, along with sleep disorders, fatigue, anemia, and pain, may precede the onset of MS by years. While they do not directly predict the disease, their frequent appearance in the years before MS symptoms appear adds to experts' understanding of the condition. Early diagnosis and treatment, along with healthy lifestyle choices, can help manage the disease and slow its progression.
A meta-analysis of over two million participants found a significant increase in all-cause mortality rates for socially isolated and lonely individuals, with heightened risks for those with pre-existing health conditions. Social isolation was associated with a 32% increased risk of all-cause mortality and a 24% increased risk of cancer mortality, while loneliness was associated with a 14% increased risk of all-cause mortality and a 9% increased risk of cancer mortality. The findings highlight the importance of prioritizing social health to boost public well-being and reduce mortality risks, with a need for comprehensive public health strategies to reduce social isolation and loneliness.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to profile an individual’s circadian rhythm using a simple saliva sample. Combining molecular analysis and computational modeling, they create a comprehensive portrayal of the body’s internal clock. This could lead to personalized lifestyle or treatment recommendations aligned with a person’s circadian rhythm, potentially improving general health and well-being, especially in disease management such as cancer. The method is currently being validated in various clinical trials, aiming to assist physicians in treatment timing and helping individuals adjust their daily activities for better health.
The WHO has updated its Strategic Preparedness and Response plan for 2023-2025 to support countries in transitioning from critical emergency response activities to longer-term sustained COVID-19 disease prevention, control, and management. While reported cases and deaths are at their lowest levels since the pandemic began, millions continue to be infected or re-infected with SARS-CoV-2, and thousands of people are dying each week. The updated two-year strategy builds on the objectives of the 2022 SPRP.
More than 1,000 cases of childhood hepatitis with no known cause have been reported since 2022. Three independent studies have now linked the outbreak to infection by adeno-associated virus 2 (AAV2). The cases were often serious, with 7.3% of affected children needing a liver transplant. The discovery of AAV2 in the blood and livers of such children might provide an explanation and could influence disease management.