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Editor's E-Note
Despite lung cancer screening's proven life-saving potential, only 18% of eligible Americans are getting screened. A new study from Mass General Brigham challenges the belief that low participation stems from resistance to preventive care. Researchers found that many eligible individuals do seek other screenings, suggesting barriers like complex criteria and access issues are the true culprits. Their findings highlight the urgent need to improve awareness and simplify lung cancer screening access.
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— Chris Baldwin, editor |
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| In This E-Newsletter
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Rates of Breast and Colorectal Cancer Screening Nearly Four-Fold Higher Than Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer screening has the potential to catch lung cancer early and save lives—but only if people get screened. Although lung cancer screening is recommended in the United States for certain individuals with a history of smoking, only 18% of eligible individuals in the country get screened. One suggested explanation has been that those eligible are resistant to receiving preventive health care, but a new study published in JAMA and led by researchers at Mass General Brigham indicates otherwise.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham sought to investigate the use of other preventive health care services among individuals eligible for lung cancer screening.
Using the 2022 CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System dataset, the researchers analyzed data from 28,483 individuals aged 50 to 79 who were eligible for lung cancer screening.
They found that while only 17% to 18% of eligible individuals received lung cancer screening, 65% of those eligible received breast and colorectal cancer screening—a nearly four-fold higher rate.
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Cognitive and Functional Decline Among Long Term Care Residents
A study published in JAMA looked at over 120,000 long term care (LTC) residents in Ontario and examined the incidence and duration of severe impairments like total care dependence and loss of communication. Many impairments occurred near end of life, though some residents lived for years in these states. Younger age and dementia at admission were linked to longer survival. Findings underscore the importance of frailty-informed, person-centered care to guide medical decisions in LTC settings.
ALS Drug May Also Work on Alzheimer's
A drug called NU-9, originally developed to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has shown promise in improving memory and neuron health in Alzheimer’s disease animal models, according to Northwestern University research, reports Newsweek. NU-9 targets toxic protein buildup, a shared mechanism in ALS and Alzheimer’s, potentially preventing brain cell damage. Approved for ALS clinical trials, NU-9 may offer a new approach to treating Alzheimer’s by addressing its root causes rather than just symptoms.
Social Factors Determine Which Older Adults Can Successfully Age in Place
A systematic review published in Age and Ageing analyzed 55 studies from Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, revealing that social factors significantly influence older adults' ability to age in place. Findings show that rural residents, racial/ethnic minorities, and immigrants are more likely to successfully age in place, potentially due to stronger community ties and caregiving norms. Additionally, socioeconomic status, gender, and education levels also play crucial roles in determining aging-in-place outcomes.
Staying Curious May Help You Stay Sharp as You Age
A University of California – Los Angeles-led study published in PLOS One reveals that while general (trait) curiosity may decline with age, momentary (state) curiosity can increase in later years. Researchers found that older adults who maintain a strong interest in learning new things relevant to their interests may offset or even prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Conversely, those exhibiting muted curiosity could be at higher risk for dementia. |
A Little Birdy
Birdie is a care platform enhancing home care services for older adults. It offers tools for care planning, medication management, and real-time communication among caregivers, agencies, and families. The service includes offline access, digital body maps, and instant alerts for concerns. By streamlining administrative tasks, Birdie helps caregivers focus more on personalized care, ensuring transparency and improved outcomes for clients. Learn more »
Considering Medications
Rethinking Medications: Truth, Power, and the Drugs You Take by Jerry Avorn, MD, examines the US pharmaceutical landscape. Avorn argues that many medications are approved based on limited evidence, driven by pharmaceutical industry pressures and the FDA's reliance on industry fees. Avorn highlights issues like the use of surrogate endpoints in drug approvals and the influence of lobbying on health care decisions. The book advocates for enhanced regulatory oversight, transparency, and patient-doctor communication. Learn more » |
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COVER STORY
Trained to Care
Many family caregivers step into their roles with little preparation, navigating complex tasks like medication management and fall prevention alone. With the rising number of aging adults, health care providers play a crucial role in equipping caregivers with the guidance and resources they need.
FEATURE
Veterans and Chronic Disabilities
Military veterans face a higher prevalence of chronic disabilities than civilians, often as a result of their service. Understanding these challenges and ensuring they receive proper care is crucial. Explore common health issues, treatment eligibility, and the support available.
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