The latest medical news, expert views on key health issues, as well as advice on disease prevention and management.
Blog
Getting ready for a CT scan of the lungs
A study called a lung CT has become widely known in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it can detect much more than the changes related to the notorious virus. In fact, chest CT is used to identify a whole range of conditions - from inflammation to neoplasms. But in addition to the benefits, the method also has certain risks and limitations. How can you make the best of its advantages and reduce the potential dangers?
MRI of the lungs and bronchi: respiratory organs seen in tiniest detail
Assessing the nature, localization and extent of a lesion is of paramount importance in lung diagnosis. These questions are the domain of radiology. X-rays and CT scans are commonly used, but in recent years physicians have become increasingly aware of the diagnostic potential of MRI of the lungs and bronchi.
Tirzepatide for diabetes and obesity: efficacy and mechanism of action
Tirzepatide (branded Munjaro) improves blood sugar metabolism in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes. It is able to reduce body weight by up to 26.6% on average. This was evidenced by the results of SURMOUNT-3 and SURMOUNT- 4, two Phase 3 drug trials. Until now, the its effect on metabolism was not fully understood. Recently scientists have managed to uncover this mechanism.
Long-awaited breakthrough in the fight against migraine: antibodies can prevent attacks of the disease
Migraine in its various forms and manifestations is extremely common. The disease is characterized primarily by headache attacks and other symptoms of varying intensity and duration, often having a severe impact on a person's daily life.
In recent years, the mechanisms of development of migraine attacks have been clarified, which made it possible to develop new approaches to treatment and, most importantly, prevention of attacks. What is meant here is a group of innovative drugs, so-called antibodies, which block the substances and structures responsible for the development of migraine attacks.
These new medicines have successfully passed all stages of clinical trials and have proved to be very effective.
Heart valve surgery: current approaches
An artificial heart valve is a genuinely handmade work, a true masterpiece of doctor and scientist work. These implants, which are created by long and painstaking effort, save lives when one's own organ ceases to perform its natural "gateway" function. Thanks to innovative techniques, an increasing number of patients can now benefit from heart valve surgery.
Hip arthroplasty: modern minimally invasive methods
Hip replacement is a complex procedure involving certain risks and challenges. Novel techniques can reduce postoperative morbidity, help to avoid complications and ensure better treatment outcomes.
What is the best way to manage hypertension?
High blood pressure is a widespread problem. Despite the availability of four classes of medications, not all patients can be helped. Researchers from Uppsala have sought to find out the effect of changing drugs. Based on the results of their study, they suggest an individualized approach to therapy.
Endometriosis: new genetic risk factors have been discovered
The exact mechanisms of the disease, which occurs in hundreds of millions of women worldwide, have not yet been determined. However, a recent large-scale study has identified a number of genetic factors that can cause abnormal endometrium overgrowth. This will improve diagnosis and help find more effective treatments.