Lung cancer is a hidden epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa, largely underdiagnosed due to systemic issues, misdiagnosis, and lack of data, despite being the deadliest cancer globally. The region faces rising smoking rates, limited screening, and poor healthcare infrastructure, which contribute to late-stage diagnoses and high mortality. Improving data collection, awareness, and prevention strategies are crucial to addressing this neglected health crisis.
Women with type 2 diabetes are often diagnosed later and have worse outcomes than men, partly due to biological differences like hormonal shifts and fat distribution, as well as potential underdiagnosis because current tests may not be as effective for women. Researchers suggest that diagnostic criteria and screening methods should be adjusted to better identify at-risk women earlier, improving treatment and reducing complications.
Two recent studies reveal that mild cognitive impairment, an early stage of dementia, is significantly underdiagnosed in people aged 65 and older, with only 8% of expected cases being diagnosed. This underdiagnosis deprives millions of patients of the opportunity to receive treatment and slow disease progression. Mild cognitive impairment can be caused by various factors, including medication side effects and vitamin deficiencies, and shares risk factors with cardiovascular disease. The FDA has approved lecanemab as the first disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease, which can reduce the progression of early-stage Alzheimer's. However, these drugs must be used in the early stages of the disease. Factors contributing to underdiagnosis include subtle symptoms and limited time during doctor's visits. Vigilance about cognitive decline and formal assessments are crucial, and utilizing Medicare's yearly "wellness" visit is recommended.
Two recent studies reveal that mild cognitive impairment, an early sign of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, is significantly underdiagnosed in people aged 65 and older, with only 8% of expected cases being diagnosed. This underdiagnosis, affecting approximately 7.4 million individuals, deprives patients of the opportunity for early treatment and intervention. The approval of disease-modifying treatments like lecanemab highlights the importance of early detection, as these drugs are most effective in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Vigilance, formal assessments, and utilizing Medicare's yearly "wellness" visit are crucial in addressing this issue.
New research from the University of Southern California reveals that over 90% of the estimated 8 million Americans with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), an early indicator of Alzheimer's disease, are unaware of their condition. The underdiagnosis of MCI, particularly among older adults and disadvantaged groups, highlights the need for early detection and treatment to manage the progression of Alzheimer's. The studies emphasize the challenges in recognizing the various forms of MCI in primary care settings and stress the importance of raising awareness among physicians and patients to identify those who could benefit from recently approved Alzheimer's treatments.
