Results for: Health

Scientists have reported an extreme case of a 72-year-old immunocompromised man who was infected with COVID-19 for 613 days. The virus mutated within his body, evading his immune system and evolving into a new immune-evasive variant. This case emphasizes the importance of protecting immunocompromised individuals from COVID-19 and other viral infections, as prolonged infections in these patients are more common and can lead to the emergence of new viral variants. Researchers are working to identify the best treatments for immunocompromised patients with persistent COVID-19 infections.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common condition affecting pregnant women, characterized by impaired glucose tolerance. To manage GDM, medical nutrition therapy (MNT) plays a crucial role. MNT involves nutritional counseling and dietary modifications, which effectively regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This therapy emphasizes a balanced diet with specific recommendations for carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake, as well as essential vitamin and mineral supplementation.

A study published in BMJ Global Health reveals significant disparities between national COVID-19 therapeutic guidelines and recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO). Researchers analyzed guidelines from 109 WHO member countries and found that many deviated substantially from WHO standards, particularly in low-resource areas. Ninety-three percent of national guidelines recommended unauthorized or ineffective medications, and only 10% advised corticosteroids for severe illness despite evidence of their benefits. The findings highlight the need for standardized procedures for developing national guidelines based on the best available evidence.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has detected particles of bird flu in some samples of pasteurized milk, but emphasized that the virus in this form is not a threat to humans. The FDA increased testing of domestic milk supplies due to a bird flu epidemic spreading through avian and cattle livestock across the country. The testing samples found inactive remnants of the bird flu virus, which had been killed during the pasteurization process.

A comprehensive study by the Indian Council of Medical Research reveals a concerning prevalence of non-communicable metabolic diseases in various Indian states. The report, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, highlights the increasing prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia in India. The study’s findings emphasize the need for region-specific strategies to mitigate this growing public health issue.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that samples of pasteurized milk have tested positive for remnants of the bird flu virus. The agency emphasized that the detected material is inactivated and does not pose a safety risk to consumers. Investigations are ongoing, and the FDA maintains that the commercial milk supply remains safe.

Sutter Health’s Sensory Clinic in Fremont is revolutionizing healthcare for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. The clinic offers a specialized room with therapeutic tools to alleviate anxiety and create a calming environment. The clinic has been a lifeline for families, reducing stress and improving access to essential medical care. It has also expanded its services to include individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and needle phobia. The clinic demonstrates Sutter Health’s commitment to providing equitable healthcare and promoting healthy and happy lives for all patients.

Environmental organizations in Hong Kong have raised concerns about the city leader’s defense of a planned technology hub in the New Territories, fearing it misleads the public into believing that abandoned fish ponds set for clearance lack ecological value. The Chief Executive’s call for the San Tin Technopole project to move forward, despite government advisors conditionally approving an environmental impact assessment, has drawn criticism from green groups.

National Infertility Awareness Week aims to foster understanding and shatter stigmas surrounding reproductive health. Dr. Carolina Sueldo, a board-certified OBGYN and fertility specialist, emphasizes the importance of this week in promoting education and open dialogue about infertility.

Patrick Guizar, a 21-year-old from Kerman, California, has been honored as the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools’ “Superintendent’s Superstar” for April. The recognition comes after Patrick received the American FFA degree, the highest degree achievable in the National FFA Organization. Patrick’s accomplishment is a testament to his hard work and determination, as he has had to overcome others’ doubts about his ability to live a normal life due to his autism diagnosis at age three. Patrick loves animals, specifically goats, and has been involved in FFA since high school. Through FFA, he has raised goats and lambs and earned several degrees, culminating in the American FFA degree. Patrick hopes his story inspires others with autism to chase their dreams, and that it reminds others that people with disabilities are capable if given the chance.