Introduction
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News
WHO calls for safe and ethical AI for health
The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for caution to be exercised in using artificial intelligence (AI) generated large language model tools (LLMs) to protect and promote human well-being, human safety, and autonomy, and preserve public health.
New Virtual Clinic Uses Virtual Reality Simulations to Tackle Healthcare Worker Shortage
Hospitals and health systems face a gap of millions of qualified workers. The shortage of healthcare talent has been compounded by increased burnout and quit rates in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic at a time when demand for healthcare workers was already projected to grow sharply. To help address this shortage, Transfr's simulations leverage cutting-edge virtual reality experiences, as well as detailed visuals and storytelling to vividly recreate the experience of working in a clinical care environment.
FDA Finalizes Individual Risk Assessment for Blood Donor Eligibility
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration finalized recommendations for assessing blood donor eligibility using a set of individual risk-based questions to reduce the risk of transfusion-transmitted HIV. These questions will be the same for every donor, regardless of sexual orientation, sex, or gender. Blood establishments may now implement these recommendations by revising their donor history questionnaires and procedures.
Researchers investigate the effect of sulfur water baths on rheological blood properties
Osteoarthritis is a common condition characterized by inflammation and joint pain that can reduce functionality and mobility. Despite the high prevalence of OA, effective therapies are lacking. Sulfur bathing is known to heal ailments and has been proven effective in managing various diseases, especially musculoskeletal disorders. However, the therapeutic role of sulfur bathing in osteoarthritis, concerning the hemorheological indices, has not been extensively investigated.
Project looks to improve access to cancer care, outcomes in Métis citizens living in rural, remote areas
The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) has announced funding for more than 20 projects they say will work to remove inequities and barriers that many face when seeking cancer-related health care in Canada, including one that will see the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) look to improve access to cancer care and improve cancer outcomes for Métis citizens living in rural and remote areas.
N.S. Health launches program to speed up access to mental health care
Nova Scotians have a new pathway to obtain faster treatment from mental health specialists. An early intervention program, which launched on April 25, aims to provide patients with assessments from psychiatrists within a matter of weeks.
"The goal is that nobody should really be waiting to see a psychiatrist and be on the wait-list for more than four weeks," - Dr. Vincent Agyapong,
Younger Women at Greater Risk of Rehospitalization after Heart Attacks
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI’s) VIRGO study looked at a broad range of risk factors related to outcomes among women and men who have had heart attacks. Women, 55 years and younger, have nearly twice the risk of rehospitalization and death after a heart attack compared to men of similar age.
Higher sunlight and vitamin D exposure is associated with a lower likelihood of having high perceived stress
In a recent study published in the Nutrients Journal, researchers from Italy evaluated the association between perceived stress levels and dietary and lifestyle factors, such as vitamin D intake, sun exposure, and physical activity among the Mediterranean population.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Contaminate Whole ICU in China
Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) was brought into the ICU, in Hangzhou, China, on multiple occasions as patients were admitted, creating a large “reservoir” of the bacteria which contaminated beds and equipment. Almost one-third of patients in an ICU got infected by carbapenem-resistant bacteria causing acute disease.
McMaster researchers find best treatment for excessive daytime sleepiness
The standard treatment for OSA is a positive airway pressure (PAP) mask that uses compressed air to support lung airways during sleep. However, some people with OSA still experience EDS and may benefit from anti-fatigue medication.