Current medical research and opinion
-
To assess the screening efficiency of an multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test added to standard of care (SoC) screening, compared to SoC screening alone, among immunocompromised individuals, and to estimate the diagnostic workup costs associated with positive screening results. ⋯ Adding an MCED test to complement existing screening may be a highly efficient strategy to increase the detection of cancers among immunocompromised individuals. These results could help to improve cancer prevention and detection efforts among individuals with multiple cancer risk factors.
-
This retrospective study using claims data compared demographics, clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, healthcare resource utilization, and clinical outcomes in Black and White patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in the United States. ⋯ Differences in demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment patterns between Black and White patients with PAH were observed. Disparities between Black and White patients <65 years were only partially mediated through social determinants of health variables, suggesting other factors may be involved.
-
Raloxifene and bazedoxifene are selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) used to prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Raloxifene is also known for its preventive effect against invasive breast cancer; however, its effect on other cancer types is unclear. This study investigated the incidence of various cancers in osteoporosis patients receiving SERM therapy to determine its association with the risk of developing specific cancer types. ⋯ SERM therapy administration is associated with a decreased incidence of cervical, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. Notably, the effects of raloxifene and bazedoxifene were consistent. Further investigations are crucial to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these observations and their clinical implications.
-
Substance use disorder (SUD) poses a significant public health challenge globally, with substantial impacts on physical and social well-being. This study investigates the interplay between abstinence self-efficacy (ASE), locus of control (LOC), perceived social support (PSS), and various socio-demographic and psychosocial factors among individuals undergoing SUD rehabilitation. ⋯ Findings of this study have several implications for developing targeted interventions aimed at strengthening ASE, promoting internal locus of control, and enhancing social support systems.