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Tag: Healthcare

  • Open Call: Nominate Immigrants in Healthcare for the Vilcek-Gold Award

    Open Call: Nominate Immigrants in Healthcare for the Vilcek-Gold Award

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    The Vilcek Foundation and The Arnold P. Gold Foundation partner to present a $10,000 award in recognition of immigrant healthcare professionals in the United States.

    Press Release
    –

    Nov 14, 2022 10:45 EST


    NEW YORK, November 14, 2022 (Newswire.com)
    –
    The Vilcek Foundation and The Arnold P. Gold Foundation have announced an open call for nominations for the 2023 Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare. The award recognizes immigrant professionals in medicine, healthcare, or public health whose work demonstrates an outstanding commitment to humanistic and community-centered care. The 2023 award includes a commemorative heart-shaped trophy, an unrestricted cash award of $10,000, and an invitation to present at the Association of American Medical Colleges’ Learn Serve Lead annual meeting. Nominations for the 2023 award will be accepted through Monday, Jan. 31, 2023, at 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. 

    The Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare is a joint initiative between the Vilcek Foundation and The Arnold P. Gold Foundation that honors the mission and values of both organizations. The Vilcek Foundation recognizes and celebrates the contributions of immigrants to science, culture, and society in the United States, and fosters appreciation for the sciences and arts more broadly. The Arnold P. Gold Foundation champions “humanism in healthcare,” defined as “compassionate, collaborative, and scientifically excellent care that places the interests, values, and dignity of all people at the core of teaching and practice.”

    All nominations will be reviewed following the close of the open call period. Eligible candidates will be reviewed by a panel of public health experts appointed by the Vilcek Foundation and The Arnold P. Gold Foundation. The recipient of the 2023 Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare will be announced in June 2023, and the award will be presented at the Association of American Medical Colleges’ annual meeting in November 2023.

    To be eligible for the 2023 Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare, nominees must have been born outside of the United States and U.S. territories to non-American parents. Candidates must work professionally in healthcare, medicine, or public health, and their professional accomplishments should demonstrate their commitment to humanism and to making healthcare equitable and accessible. Eligible candidates must be based in the United States and intend to continue in a career in medicine, healthcare, or public health in the United States. Full eligibility details and requirements can be found on The Arnold P. Gold Foundation website.

    Nominators are required to submit a copy of their selected nominee’s CV or resume, answer short questions about their nominee, and write two essays that describe how the candidate’s work aligns with the mission and values of the Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare. Nominators are encouraged to alert their nominee of their intention to nominate them for the award. 

    Details about the 2023 Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare can be found on the Vilcek Foundation website at www.vilcek.org. The nomination form for the 2023 Vilcek-Gold Award for Humanism in Healthcare can be accessed at The Arnold P. Gold Foundation website at www.gold-foundation.org. For questions regarding nominations and eligibility requirements, please contact Vilcek Foundation Program Officer Julia Lo at julia.lo@vilcek.org or 212-472-2500. 

    The Vilcek Foundation

    The Vilcek Foundation raises awareness of immigrant contributions in the United States and fosters appreciation for the arts and sciences. The foundation was established in 2000 by Jan and Marica Vilcek, immigrants from the former Czechoslovakia. The mission of the foundation was inspired by the couple’s respective careers in biomedical science and art history. Since 2000, the foundation has awarded over $7 million in prizes to foreign-born individuals and has supported organizations with over $5.8 million in grants.

    The Vilcek Foundation is a private operating foundation, a federally tax-exempt nonprofit organization under IRS Section 501(c)(3). To learn more, please visit vilcek.org. 

    The Arnold P. Gold Foundation

    The Arnold P. Gold Foundation was founded in 1988 with the vision that healthcare will be dramatically improved by placing the interests, values, and dignity of all people at the core of teaching and practice. The Gold Foundation champions humanism in healthcare, which the foundation defines as compassionate, collaborative, and scientifically excellent care; the foundation embraces all and targets any barriers that prevent individuals or groups from accessing this standard of care. The Gold Foundation empowers experts, learners, and leaders to create systems and cultures that support humanistic care for all. 

    The Arnold P. Gold Foundation is a public not-for-profit organization, a federally tax-exempt organization under IRS Section 501(c)(3). To learn more, please visit www.gold-foundation.org. 

    Source: The Vilcek Foundation

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  • Elizabeth S. John, M.D., Gastroenterologist, Joins Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Group

    Elizabeth S. John, M.D., Gastroenterologist, Joins Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Group

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    Newswise — Montclair, NJ – (November 14, 2022) – Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Group has announced that Elizabeth S. John, M.D., gastroenterologist, has joined the practice.

    A fellowship trained gastroenterologist, Dr. John is passionate about her specialty. “I have always loved gastroenterology as our digestive system really does affect so much of what we do outside of how we digest our food,” Dr. John shares. “The mind-body-gut axis is crucial to understand as our gastrointestinal symptoms can affect our psyche, and alternatively be affected by our psyche. Additionally, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract can have serious implications if not diagnosed early, and as such, I am passionate about teasing out important details of my patients’ symptoms to diagnose, treat, and prevent early.”

    Dr. John received her medical degree from University of Central Florida College of Medicine. She completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Jersey before completing her gastroenterology at Methodist Dallas Medical Center in Texas.  Dr. John is experienced in research with over 25 publications in academic journals, and over 60 presentations at academic meetings.  She has received number of awards and distinctions from the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Gastroenterological Association, and including the “Top 25 GI Fellows to Know” distinction, the “Early Career Investigator” distinction, the “Radhika Srinivasan Gender-Based Research Award”, and the “Presidential Award”.

    “We are pleased to welcome Dr. John to Mountainside Medical Group,” says Tim O’Brien, chief executive officer. “Our commitment is to the community and by expanding our physician network, we are better equipped to provide the highest level of quality care to area residents.”

    When not treating patients, Dr. John enjoys spending time with family and friends, enjoying the art of music, learning new languages, cooking, and baking, finding ways to promote wellness.

    Virtual care and in-person visits are available.

     

    About Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Group

    The Mountainside Medical Group is a network of physicians specializing in primary care, OB/GYN, endocrinology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, otolaryngology and plastic surgery created by Mountainside Medical Center. We believe people who establish a personal relationship with their doctors experience better health and quality of life. Start well and stay well with Mountainside Medical Group. Offices are located in Montclair, Bloomfield, Caldwell, Glen Ridge, Montville, Nutley, Verona, West Caldwell, and Woodland Park. For more information, visit www.mountainsidemedicalgroup.com

    About Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center

    Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center has been serving Montclair and its surrounding New Jersey communities since 1891. The hospital provides patients access to innovative and effective treatment in specialized centers within the hospital focused on radiology, women’s health, oncology, surgery, bariatrics, neurosciences, stroke, and cardiovascular services. Mountainside is designated as a Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission and The New Jersey State Department of Health and Senior Services and is one of only a few community hospitals licensed by the State to perform emergency cardiac angioplasty and emergency neuro-endovascular procedures. To learn more about Hackensack Meridian Health Mountainside Medical Center visit www.mountainsidehosp.com.

     

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  • Study Examines Total Knee Replacement in Patients Under 21

    Study Examines Total Knee Replacement in Patients Under 21

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    Newswise — A new study from researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) has evaluated trends in the use of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients under 21 in the United States. The study was reported at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence 2022 meeting (abstract number 08780).

    According to Cynthia A. Kahlenberg, MD, MPH, an orthopedic surgeon at HSS and a coauthor of the study, TKA is rarely performed in patients under 21 years old but may be done in this population due to conditions such as inflammatory arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), malignant or non-malignant tumors, or trauma. However, the number of patients under the age of 21 undergoing TKA in the U.S. is unknown. In one of the largest U.S. studies of an institutional arthroplasty registry, only 19 TKAs were performed in patients under the age of 21 out of approximately 30,000 primary TKAs over 34 years—a majority of which were for JIA.

    The researchers retrospectively analyzed the Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID), a national weighted sample of all inpatient hospital admissions of patients under 21 years old in approximately 4,200 hospitals in 46 states. The researchers used International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) and ICD-10 codes to identify patients undergoing TKA from 2000-2016 and determine primary diagnosis. Descriptive statistics such as means and percentages, along with their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), were calculated using the appropriate sample weights as recommended by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality for use with the KID dataset.

    The total weighted number of TKAs performed in patients younger than 21 from 2000-2016 was 1,331; the number of TKAs performed per year in this age group remained relatively stable. The mean age of patients undergoing TKA was 14.8 years (95% CI, 14.4-15.2); 48.8% of the cohort was female. Among tumor patients, a higher proportion identified as Hispanic (22.1%) or other race (12.6%) compared to the non-tumor cohort; 70.3% of TKAs were performed for a primary diagnosis of a tumor; and the number of TKAs for malignant tumors increased slightly over the study period. In contrast, use of TKA for inflammatory arthritis / JIA decreased by more than 70% over the study period, likely due to improvements in medical management of inflammatory arthritis / JIA patients. The majority of TKAs were performed in urban teaching hospitals and in facilities with a large bed size, which likely reflects the complexity and rarity of these procedures.

    “This was one of the first studies to take an in-depth look at TKA in this very young population,” said Dr. Kahlenberg. “Our study was able to confirm that tumors were the most common reason for knee arthroplasty in this population.”

    “I think the biggest takeaway as a rheumatologist is that we are doing a good job treating these patients and over the years the treatments for inflammatory arthritis are really working well in this young population,” said Bella Mehta, MBBS, MS, rheumatologist at HSS and senior study author.

    About HSS

    HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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  • HSS Research Uncovers How UV Light Triggers Immune Activation and Disease Flares in Lupus

    HSS Research Uncovers How UV Light Triggers Immune Activation and Disease Flares in Lupus

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    Newswise — After sun exposure, people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently develop skin rashes, which often are accompanied by a flare of their overall disease. This connection between ultraviolet (UV) light and disease flares in lupus is well known, but the way in which UV exposure actually triggers the disease has been poorly understood.

    In a new study being presented at ACR Convergence 2022, the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, researchers from Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) report that they have found an underlying mechanism that explains this association: decreased lymphatic drainage, which contributes to both photosensitivity and an immune response in the lymph nodes. The research also suggests that boosting lymphatic drainage may be an effective treatment for lupus photosensitivity and autoimmunity.

    “When people with lupus have a systemic flare of their disease, it can affect any organ that is part of their disease,” says senior author Theresa T. Lu, MD, PhD, who holds the St. Giles Chair for Research in the HSS Research Institute, is a faculty member in Pediatric Rheumatology and in Rheumatology at HSS and is a professor of microbiology and immunology and of pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine. “We wanted to look at why sun exposure at the level of the skin affects internal organs like the kidneys, heart and lungs.”

    “This study sheds some light on how sun exposure and UV light cause people with lupus to have more autoantibodies in their blood,” adds first author William Ambler, MD, a former fellow at HSS in Dr. Lu’s lab who is now Metzger Scholar in Translational Medicine at the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases at the National Institutes of Health.

    The skin communicates with the immune system by sending cells and molecular signals via the lymphatic vessels to the lymph nodes, where immune responses begin. The signals that the skin sends to the lymph nodes control the type of immune responses that occur. Lymphatic vessels also serve the function of removing fluid and cells from the skin. If lymphatic vessels do not work properly to bring signals from skin to lymph nodes, there can be delayed resolution of skin inflammation, leading to faulty signals being sent to the lymph nodes.

    Research in the Lu lab suggests that lymphatic flow from the skin to the draining lymph nodes is reduced in people with lupus. The investigators hypothesize that this decreased flow alters lymph node immune responses, making them more pathogenic. They decided to look more closely at this communication and how it impacts immune function. The current research employed both patient samples and mouse models of SLE.

    The investigators studied skin biopsies from lupus patients as well as from healthy volunteers who served as controls. When they looked at the samples from the lupus patients, they found these more dilated lymphatic vessels compared with the healthy controls. This provided evidence that people with lupus have poor lymphatic flow.

    They then studied mouse models of SLE, using a dye injected into the skin to visualize the flow of lymphatic fluid. They found that when lupus mice were exposed to UV radiation, more dye remained in the skin. This provided evidence that the lymphatics were not clearing the fluid as well as they should.

    Importantly, the researchers then looked to see if they could improve certain hallmarks of disease in the mice by using manual lymphatic drainage techniques to manipulate the flow of lymph fluid. This type of therapy is used in people with certain types of cancer, especially breast cancer, to prevent lymphedema (fluid accumulation and swelling) after the surgical removal of lymph nodes. They found that performing lymphatic drainage in the mice reduced the numbers of plasmablasts and germinal center B cells, types of cells that are known to be important players in lupus.

    Drs. Ambler and Lu are optimistic that manual lymphatic drainage may benefit lupus patients but emphasize that clinical trials in patients are needed to confirm it would be safe and effective.

    The investigators note that this research is also important because it advances the broader field of understanding how skin and organs communicate through the lymph nodes and the immune system.

    About HSS

    HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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  • Study Finds Chronic-Pain Management, Falls and Limited Access to Care Are Critical Issues Among Medically Underserved

    Study Finds Chronic-Pain Management, Falls and Limited Access to Care Are Critical Issues Among Medically Underserved

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    Newswise — To improve the health of a community, the first step is to identify its most pressing needs. To that end, in 2022 Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) implemented a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to assess musculoskeletal health needs, identify health disparities and support the development of initiatives to address unmet needs.

    Critical issues included a lack of health education and awareness in managing arthritis and other painful conditions; a high incidence of falls in the community; and limited access to care among underserved populations.

    The study, “Assessing Musculoskeletal Health Needs of Underserved Patients & Community Members Using a Community Based Participatory Research Approach,” was presented virtually at ACR Convergence 2022, the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology in Philadelphia.

    “Musculoskeletal disorders are the most prevalent health conditions in the United States, resulting in financial and social burdens, especially in underserved communities,” explained Titilayo Adeniran, MPH, director of outcomes & data analytics at the HSS Education Institute. “Studies show that musculoskeletal health disparities disproportionately affect women, older adults and racial/ethnic minorities.”

    HSS researchers used a mixed-method approach to develop a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). “For quantitative data, we distributed a community survey in four languages—English, Spanish, Chinese and Russian—to assess the socio-demographic characteristics of the populations we serve; health status and quality of life; health behavior and lifestyle; use of and access to care; and health education needs,” explained Adeniran. “For qualitative data, we conducted interviews with 22 community partners, including community-based organizations, city and state agencies and universities.”

    The survey was distributed in various ways, including online, via email, using Alchemer panels, in person, and through the mail over a four-week period from January 15 to February 15, 2022. A total of 18,248 patients and community members completed the surveys, with 57% representing a diverse and underserved population.

    In addition to the surveys, interviews with community partners provided valuable insights into unmet health needs, Adeniran noted. Community organizations represented all five boroughs of New York City, as well as surrounding areas serving racially/ethnically diverse populations. They represented all age, gender, and socioeconomic groups.

    Key findings:

    • Chronic pain, osteoarthritis or another form of arthritis were the most common musculoskeletal conditions reported in the survey.
    • Among respondents with a musculoskeletal condition, a lack of confidence in managing symptoms emerged as a health need, particularly among medically underserved community members.
    • Almost one-third of all respondents reported falling in the past year.
    • Those with chronic pain, fibromyalgia or lupus were more likely to report two or more weeks of poor physical and mental health.
    • Medically underserved respondents diagnosed with lupus, chronic pain or rheumatoid arthritis were more likely to have used a prescription opioid to manage pain.
    • Health education emerged as a major need, with 70% of respondents reporting no participation in health education in the past 12 months. The top reasons were fear of COVID-19 and not knowing about educational programs.
    • The top issues impacting respondents’ health and well-being were COVID-19 related issues, social isolation/loneliness, limited places to exercise, and limited access to healthy foods.
    • The survey identified a need to address access to healthcare, with 42% of respondents reporting they could not access healthcare in the past 12 months, compared to 8% in a previous survey conducted in 2019. The top barriers were difficulty getting an appointment, lack of affordability or a service not covered by insurance. The need for transportation was also cited among the medically underserved.
    • The most common type of discrimination reported in medical settings was that a doctor or nurse was not listening to the respondent. More than half of those taking the survey cited this issue.

    “Broad community engagement is crucial to the success of any CBPR approach when assessing the health needs of the community and identifying health disparities,” said Sandra Goldsmith, MA, MS, RD, assistant vice president at the HSS Education Institute. “The results of our study will enable us to raise awareness about disparities that continue to affect our diverse and underserved populations and help us develop community-based initiatives to promote health equity.”

     

    Titilayo Adeniran, Bertilia Trieu, Sandra Goldsmith and Laura Robbins, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY

    About HSS

    HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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  • Participation Doubles After Lupus Support Group at HSS Transitions to Virtual Format During Pandemic

    Participation Doubles After Lupus Support Group at HSS Transitions to Virtual Format During Pandemic

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    Newswise — A study at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) highlights the success of a lupus peer support and education group that transitioned to a virtual format during the pandemic. In addition to receiving high marks from group members, participation more than doubled after the meetings went remote.  

    “Studies have demonstrated the benefits of online peer support forums in meeting the mental health, disease self-management and coping needs of people living with a chronic illness,” explained Giselle Rodriguez, LCSW, social work program coordinator for Charla de Lupus (Lupus Chat)® at HSS. “Although in-person meetings were no longer viable during the pandemic, the virtual groups offered an effective platform for patients to continue to meet with their peers, reduce isolation and expand the reach to additional family members at home and across the country.”

    Rodriguez presented the study, “Evaluating the Effectiveness & Impact of an In-Person Peer Support Group That Transitioned to a Virtual Platform During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” at ACR Convergence 2022, the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, in Philadelphia on November 12.

    At the monthly support group, which has been ongoing at HSS since 2001, social workers, rheumatologists and other health care professionals offer information on topics related to lupus, such as medications, nutrition, pain management and research. The bilingual social work team translates all presentations into Spanish to distribute to Spanish-speaking members prior to the Zoom meetings. In addition, all communications in the chat box are translated live during the sessions to encourage Spanish speakers to participate. In some groups, simultaneous translation is provided.

    To assess the effectiveness of the meetings, members received an online survey with multiple-choice and open-ended questions after nine virtual sessions from September 2020 to June 2021. Researchers conducted a comparison analysis with surveys completed by in-person groups held in 2018-2019 to assess reach, satisfaction, knowledge, coping and disease management.

    Reach increased significantly after transitioning to a virtual group, with 373 participants versus 177 in 2018-2019. Responses highlighted the benefits of a virtual group, such as removing transportation barriers, the ability to join the meeting from anywhere and ease of participation by sharing a link. Limitations included inability to connect one on one, no internet access and challenges using Zoom.

    Key findings:

    • 99% of respondents reported satisfaction with the virtual groups
    • 98% agreed that the groups increased their understanding of lupus-related issues
    • 98% agreed the program met their expectations
    • 97% agreed that they would recommend this group
    • 95% agreed they could apply what they learned to manage lupus
    • 93% agreed the groups helped them cope with lupus

    No significant differences were observed when comparing most answers from in-person groups conducted in 2018-2019 to the virtual group. However, in the virtual group, there was an 8% increase in respondents indicating that the sessions helped them cope with lupus.

    Survey comments from participants demonstrated that they appreciated the virtual format:

    “It was an excellent idea to transition from in-person programming to virtual. Charla should keep it virtual or a mixture of programming and virtual to keep it easy to attend all the meetings without missing any.”

    “Charla has made great use of Zoom for each of their programs. Although the experience is not the same as in person, every program was just as informative.”

    “I love the Zoom meeting since it is a way for everyone to stay connected from home healthy and safe.”

    “I would not have been able to attend the meetings due to location.”

    The monthly lupus support groups and special events continue to be hosted online through Zoom. Rodriguez and colleagues are assessing participants’ interest in a hybrid model utilizing both in-person and virtual groups going forward.

     

    Giselle Rodriguez1, Priscilla Calvache1, Lillian Mendez1, Kimberly Cabrera1, Roberta Horton1, Lisa Imundo2 and Jillian Rose-Smith1, 1Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, 2New York Presbyterian Hospital – Columbia Campus, New York, NY

    About HSS

    HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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  • HSS Rheumatologists, Social Worker Honored by American College of Rheumatology

    HSS Rheumatologists, Social Worker Honored by American College of Rheumatology

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    Newswise — The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) have honored two rheumatologists and a social worker at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) with prestigious awards. Each year, the ACR and ARP recognize members who have made outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology. The ceremony took place at the ACR Convergence meeting in Philadelphia on November 12.

    Michael Lockshin, MD, received the ACR Distinguished Clinician Scholar Award, which honors a rheumatologist who has made outstanding contributions in clinical medicine, clinical scholarship or education.

    Melanie Smith, MD, PhD, received the ACR Distinguished Fellow Award, which recognizes clinical and research fellows who are in a rheumatology fellowship training program and have performed meritoriously.

    Adena Batterman, LCSW, MSW, received the ARP Distinguished Clinician Award. It is presented to an ARP member who is engaged in clinical practice and demonstrates outstanding clinical expertise in arthritis and the rheumatic diseases.

    “HSS is extremely proud of our team members who have been honored with these notable awards,” said Louis A. Shapiro, president and CEO of HSS. “We warmly congratulate them for their contributions and achievements in patient care, research, support and education.”

    Michael Lockshin, MD

    Dr. Lockshin’s award follows a career spanning more than four decades at HSS. When asked about receiving the honor, he said, “I think it honors those who surrounded and challenged me more than it does me—patients who asked hard questions; the team led by Charles Christian that trained me and with whom I was privileged to work; intellectually curious colleagues, students and fellows; Hospital for Special Surgery, which gave me freedom to pursue goals I thought were worthwhile; and my wonderful family.”

    Director emeritus of the Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Disease at HSS, Dr. Lockshin is a preeminent expert in the long-term care of chronically ill patients. His research enabled him to develop special expertise in solving health-care issues associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and other autoimmune diseases that predominantly affect women.

    Dr. Lockshin continues to conduct research and engage in mentoring activities at HSS. His current work focuses on diagnostic uncertainty, the topic of an international conference he organized last year. He has also published a white paper and written a book on the subject.

    Melanie Smith, MD, PhD

    Dr. Smith describes her Distinguished Fellow award as an incredible honor. “It is a testament to the opportunities I have had during my fellowship training and the amazing group of mentors that have supported my development as both a physician and a scientist,” she said. “I am excited to embark on a career dedicated to understanding mechanisms of disease with the goal of improving care for our patients.”

    Dr. Smith, now a staff rheumatologist at HSS, specializes in treating inflammatory arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjogren’s syndrome and gout/pseudogout. She also treats patients with osteoarthritis. Her research focuses on how cells that make up the healthy joint lining change when an individual develops rheumatoid arthritis.

    Adena Batterman, LCSW, MSW

    Adena Batterman, recognized with the ARP Distinguished Clinician Award, is senior manager of the Inflammatory Arthritis Support and Education Programs at HSS. “I feel honored and grateful to be recognized for clinical work and research that enhances the lives, and elevates the voices, of patients,” she said. “I’m grateful to be engaged in work made possible by colleagues and mentors that continues to have deep personal and professional meaning to me.”

    Ms. Batterman develops and oversees support and education programs designed to address the multifaceted needs of patients with inflammatory arthritis during the many stages of their illness. The programs provide essential information to help participants make informed decisions about management and treatment; offer peer support and coping strategies; and create a forum in which members can share their experiences and feelings.

    “I commend our HSS colleagues who have been honored by two of the foremost organizations advancing the field of rheumatology,” said S. Louis Bridges, Jr., MD, PhD, physician-in-chief and chief of the Division of Rheumatology at HSS. “Our colleagues’ hard work, skill and dedication have enabled them to excel in their respective specialties. Their contributions have helped HSS achieve a leadership role in rheumatology to improve the lives of patients with exceptional care and vital research.”

    About HSS

    HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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  • Could Medical Debt Be The Black Swan Event That Takes Down The US Economy?

    Could Medical Debt Be The Black Swan Event That Takes Down The US Economy?

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    Watch This Episode On YouTube

    Listen To The Episode Here:

    In this episode of “Bitcoin Bottom Line,” hosts C.J. Wilson and Josh Olszewicz are joined by special guest Mike Hobart. He is an author at Bitcoin Magazine, a seed oil disrespecter and a former member of the United States military. Wilson, Olszewicz and Hobart open the episode by talking about what is currently happening in the investing space. Olszewicz states that there is currently no good news and we are seeing how rate hikes don’t work effectively.

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  • Attitudes towards corona vaccination among medical and nursing staff

    Attitudes towards corona vaccination among medical and nursing staff

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    Newswise — COLOGNE. Due to their close contacts with patients, people working in the medical and nursing fields have a higher risk of infecting themselves and others with the COVID-19 coronavirus. Being vaccinated is therefore essential not only for their own protection but also for their patients. Carolin Muschalik and co-authors from the Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA) have now asked whether (and to what extent) the attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination in this group differ from those in the general population, and whether identified differences could support recommendations for action (Dtsch Arztebl Int 2022;119.DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2022.0206).

    To address these questions, the authors carried out a Germany-wide survey in the framework of the CoSiD study between 9 July and 5 August, 2021, using computer-assisted web and telephone interviews. The attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination were collected using the so-called 5C scale, which describes five psychological reasons for or against vaccination. Based on their vaccination status, the views of medical and nursing personnel (n = 506) were compared with those of persons in the general population who were younger than 66 years old and not employed in a medical or nursing field (n = 1505). Differences between the reference group of unvaccinated medical and nursing personnel and the three other groups were determined using linear regressions for complex samples and controlled for age, education, and gender.

    The research team found that 82 percent of medical and nursing personnel had been vaccinated at least once, and 75 percent had been vaccinated twice, at the time of the survey. The vaccination rate was similarly high in the general population (81 and 64 percent, respectively). In both groups, unvaccinated people had significantly more negative views about the COVID-19 vaccination than vaccinated people, but unvaccinated medical and nursing personnel were more critical than the unvaccinated general population: they had stronger concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and less trust in decisions made by state authorities, and they were less likely to perceive being vaccinated as a collective responsibility. A similar percentage of unvaccinated persons in both groups thought that the COVID-19 vaccination was superfluous, and that COVID-19 did not pose a major threat.

    Based on these results, the authors see a need for specific measures to help convince unvaccinated medical and nursing personnel of the benefits of mandatory vaccination. In their opinion, the professional environment in these fields is particularly suitable for this.

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  • Study assesses environmental sustainability practices in dialysis facilities

    Study assesses environmental sustainability practices in dialysis facilities

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    Newswise — Highlights

    • Survey results from dialysis facilities in Australia and New Zealand indicate that environmental sustainability is not currently prioritized in facilities’ clinical practice, building design, or infrastructure and management systems.
    • Results highlighted major deficiencies, and thereby opportunities for improvement.

    Washington, DC (November 11, 2022) — Healthcare is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions that impact climate change. In fact, if the global healthcare sector were a country, it would be the fifth-largest emitter on the planet. And within healthcare, dialysis programs contribute disproportionately, with high resource consumption and waste generation. A recent study published in CJASN examined the environmental sustainability practices of dialysis facilities, providing insights into where improvements could be made.

    For the study, Benjamin Talbot, MBBS (The George Institute for Global Health) and his colleagues sent an online survey to the heads of all dialysis facilities in Australia and New Zealand between November 2019 and December 2020. Responses were received from 132 dialysis facilities, representing 33% (122/365) of dialysis services within Australia and New Zealand. Most responses were from public satellite facilities (40%), in-center dialysis facilities (25%) and co-located dialysis and home therapies facilities (21%).

    Opportunities for improvement in environmental sustainability practices were identified in 3 domains:

    • Culture—A minority of facilities reported having an environmental sustainability strategy in place (33%) or undertaking sustainability audits (20%). Only 7% reported the inclusion of environmental training in staff induction programs.
    • Building design, infrastructure, energy use—Few facilities reported using renewable energy (14%), reclaiming reverse osmosis reject water (13%), or motion-sensor light-switches (44%).
    • Operations—A minority of facilities reported having waste management education (36%), auditing waste generation (17%), or considering environmental sustainability in procurement decisions (25%).

    “We have established a baseline of environmental sustainability practices in dialysis facilities in Australia and New Zealand, however, only 33% of dialysis facilities responded to the survey, which suggests that environmental sustainability is not a priority for most dialysis facilities. The responses to the survey regarding dialysis practices confirmed this further and demonstrate numerous areas where improvements can be made,” said Dr. Talbot. “As healthcare professionals, we have a duty to advocate for our patients and protect our planet. Dialysis is a life-saving treatment but it has a huge environmental cost, and we must all work together to find ways to reduce its impact.” 

    Additional study authors include Katherine Barraclough, MBBS, PhD, Matthew Sypek, MBBS, PhD, FRACP, Pedro Gois, MD, PhD, FRACP, FASN, Leila Arnold, MbChB, FRACP, Stephen McDonald, MBBS(Hons), PhD, FRACP, and John Knight, MBBS, MA, MBA, FRACP, FASN, GAICD.

    Disclosures: B Talbot and J Knight are employees of Ellen Medical Devices developing the Affordable Dialysis program. K Barraclough has received research funding from Fresenius Medical Care. P Gois has received consultancy and honoraria fees from Alexion Pharmaceuticals. S McDonald has received research funding from Baxter Healthcare and Astellas Pharmaceuticals and has had advisory or leadership roles with Fresenius Kidney Care Australia. L Arnold reports employment and ownership interest in M and M Renal Limited.

    The article, titled “A Survey of Environmental Sustainability Practices in Dialysis Facilities in Australia and New Zealand,” will appear online at http://cjasn.asnjournals.org/ on November 11, 2022, doi: 10.2215/CJN.08090722.

    The content of this article does not reflect the views or opinions of The American Society of Nephrology (ASN). Responsibility for the information and views expressed therein lies entirely with the author(s). ASN does not offer medical advice. All content in ASN publications is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This content should not be used during a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health care provider if you have any questions about a medical condition, or before taking any drug, changing your diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. Do not ignore or delay obtaining professional medical advice because of information accessed through ASN. Call 911 or your doctor for all medical emergencies.

    About ASN Since 1966, ASN has been leading the fight to prevent, treat, and cure kidney diseases throughout the world by educating health professionals and scientists, advancing research and innovation, communicating new knowledge, and advocating for the highest quality care for patients. ASN has more than 20,000 members representing 132 countries. For more information, visit www.asn-online.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

      

    # # #

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  • Tracing the origin of Kampo, Japan’s traditional medicine

    Tracing the origin of Kampo, Japan’s traditional medicine

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    Newswise — Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been around for centuries. With a history of almost 3000 years dating back to the early Zhou Dynasty, it has been incorporated into China’s present medical system. The traditional practice involves the use of plants, animals, and minerals. It works on the principle of maintaining the delicate balance between ‘yin’ and ‘yang’—the opposite but interconnected forces said to be at the core of all creation—to prevent diseases and maintain health. Originating in China, TCM is practiced widely today, including in Japan.

    It has long been considered that TCM was introduced in Japan by the monk, Jianzhen or Ganjin, who visited Japan in the 8th century to promote the teachings of Buddhism on the invitation of two Japanese clerics. Born in Yangzhou, the monk Jianzhen was well-versed in TCM and was proficient in Buddhism. When he arrived in Japan in 753 CE, it is said that he had with him 36 kinds of herbal medicines, each with different pharmacological effects and recipes for different combinations to treat a variety of diseases. Along with his Buddhist teachings, whether Jianzhen imparted his pharmacological and medical knowledge, thereby influencing existing traditional Japanese medicine, remains debated.

    Now, researchers from Japan and China, led by Professor Toshihiko Matsuo of the Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, have conducted an extensive review of available Chinese, Japanese, and English literature to shed light on this longstanding mystery. The team comprised of Shihui Liu, former assistant professor in Okayama University, visiting research fellow Chie Matsuo, and senior assistant professor Takumi Abe, both from Okayama University. Their article, published on 18 October 2022 in the  journal Compounds, offers interesting insights on the life of Jianzhen as seen through the lens of his ethnopharmacological knowledge.

    On his trip to Japan, Jianzhen gathered and brought with him things he found on his way, things as insignificant as stalactites and Zixue (a TCM component), while also bringing traditional ingredients from China, including musk, agarwood, snail, rosin, dipterocarp, fragrant gall, benzoin, incense, dutchman’s pipe root, Pistacia lentiscus, Piper longum, Terminalia chebula/haritaki, asafetida, sugar, sucrose, 10 bushels of honey, and 80 bunches of sugar cane. In their article, the researchers have reviewed the 36 herbal medicines and their therapeutic effects that were brought to Japan. Local lore suggests Jianzhen also had with him a book called Jianshangren (Holy Priest Jianzhen)’s Secret Prescription, which has been lost for centuries. The team also reports being successful in tracking down a copy of another book that holds the same prescriptions.

    Most interestingly, their findings show that the prescriptions by Jianzhen form the basis of herbal medicinal practice in Japan, popular under the name of Kampo. The herbal medicinal practice is very much integrated into the fabric of Japan’s current healthcare system. Kampo medicines are prescribed alongside Western medicine and modern drugs and is covered by the reimbursement of the national health insurance.

    “People in Japan can buy Kampo medicines as over-the-counter drugs at pharmacies. This unique system in Japan has derived from a long history of systematic prescription of Kampo medicines and would have an origin in Jianzhen’s prescription in the 8th century,” observes Prof. Matsuo with much excitement.

    He hopes for the spread of the use of Kampo medicine beyond Japan. “People in other countries also have a chance to use Kampo medicines in combination with Western medicines.” His inspiration in saying so is possibly, Jianzhen, again. “Jianzhen is one of the first people to bring Chinese traditional medicine to Japan. He is considered an ancestor of Kampo medicine, who molded Chinese traditional medicine to suit the needs of Japanese people,” reflects Prof. Matsuo. In the age of globalization, the journey of traditional medical knowledge that took 11 years to reach Japan from China may be accomplished in less than 11 seconds with the click of a button.

    We live in that hope.

     

    About Okayama University, Japan

    As one of the leading universities in Japan, Okayama University aims to create and establish a new paradigm for the sustainable development of the world. Okayama University offers a wide range of academic fields, which become the basis of the integrated graduate schools. This not only allows us to conduct the most advanced and up-to-date research, but also provides an enriching educational experience.

    Website: https://www.okayama-u.ac.jp/index_e.html

     

    About Professor Toshihiko Matsuo from Okayama University, Japan

    Professor Toshihiko Matsuo is a professor at the Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health System, Okayama University, Japan. His areas of interest include Ophthalmology, Uveitis, Oncology, and Vitrectomy.

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  • Registration Opens for Premier Critical Care Nursing Conference

    Registration Opens for Premier Critical Care Nursing Conference

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    Newswise — The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) invites nurses and other healthcare professionals who care for acutely and critically ill patients and their families to its 2023 National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition (NTI) in Philadelphia, May 22-24.

    The NTI experience will address nearly 50 clinical and professional development topics, allowing attendees to hone their clinical and professional practice skills while learning and networking with leading experts in critical care and colleagues from across the country. 

    NTI learning opportunities offer the following formats:

    • Educational Sessions: More than 200 sessions are offered during the conference and available after the conference through Oct. 31, 2023. Sessions are 60, 75 or 150 minutes.
    • SuperSessions: Large sessions for all participants feature motivational keynote speakers and AACN leaders, geared toward professional success, current and future trends, and/or national and global issues.
    • Pharmacology Content: Online classroom sessions include a minimum portion of pharmacotherapeutic content on drug-specific information, safe prescribing practices, safe medication administration and prescribing methodologies.
    • Posters: Self-viewing Beacon Journey for Excellence, Chapter Best Practices, CSI Academy Innovation, Evidence-Based Solutions and Research digital posters are offered during the conference and available after the conference through Oct. 31.
    • Sunrise/Sunset Sessions: Sessions are funded by unrestricted grants from corporate supporters. Sessions are 60 minutes long with approximately 75% clinical and 25% product-specific content.
    • ExpoEd Education: Product- and program-specific educational and in-service-style learning is provided by exhibitors. Sessions are 30 minutes.

    NTI includes the Critical Care Exposition, the largest and most comprehensive trade show expressly for progressive and critical care nurses. Hundreds of exhibits spread over 200,000 square feet will encompass cutting-edge healthcare equipment, devices, supplies and career opportunities.

    Following the in-person conference, AACN will offer NTI Virtual June 12-14, an online experience with the SuperSessions and educational sessions presented in Philadelphia, supplemented by live interaction with facilitators and attendees, and meaningful networking opportunities.

    For NTI 2023, participants can earn 37.75 CE contact hours, which are calculated on a 60-minute hour and determined by the number of learning activities a registered NTI participant completes. Learners must view/read the entire learning activity and complete the associated evaluation, as well as the program evaluation, to be awarded CE contact hours or CERP credit. No partial hours or credit will be awarded.

    More than 200 NTI sessions will be available on-demand with CE contact hours through Oct. 31.

    About the National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition: Established in 1974, AACN’s National Teaching Institute & Critical Care Exposition (NTI) represents the world’s largest educational conference and trade show for nurses who care for acutely and critically ill patients and their families. Bedside nurses, nurse educators, nurse managers, clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners attend NTI.

    About the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses: For more than 50 years, the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) has been dedicated to acute and critical care nursing excellence. The organization’s vision is to create a healthcare system driven by the needs of patients and their families in which acute and critical care nurses make their optimal contribution. AACN is the world’s largest specialty nursing organization, with about 130,000 members and over 200 chapters in the United States.

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  • Balancing the Safety and Education of Pregnant Neurosurgeons

    Balancing the Safety and Education of Pregnant Neurosurgeons

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    Newswise — Rolling Meadows, IL (NOVEMBER 8, 2022). Because there are unique circumstances that may impact the training, safety, and career trajectory of pregnant neurosurgeons, as well as risks inherent to the pregnant neurosurgical resident from occupational exposures and pregnancy physiology, the authors of this paper have come up with recommendations for both pregnant residents and their residency programs to mitigate these risks, focusing on the impact on their education as well as on their colleagues. Detailed findings of this study are described in the article “Best practices for the pregnant neurosurgical resident: balancing safety and education” by Krystal L. Tomei et al., published today in the Journal of Neurosurgery (https://thejns.org/doi/abs/10.3171/2022.9.JNS221727).

    As neurosurgery moves to improve diversity, including attracting women to the field, and as policies supporting parental leave are written into training and board certification requirements, it is imperative to consider the additional barriers to childbearing inherent in residency training.

    Noting the stigma associated with pregnant residents and the impact of their pregnancy on colleagues, the lack of policy and financial support regarding parental leave, postpartum challenges, and the higher medical complication rates in pregnant surgeons, including higher rates of pregnancy loss, a higher need for assisted reproductive technology, more frequent nonelective cesarean deliveries, and increased rates of postpartum depression, the authors set out to provide interventions for each of the three trimesters and the postpartum “fourth trimester,” as well as best practices for residency programs. These recommendations can be carried forward by the pregnant resident and residency programs, with specific consideration of situations unique to neurosurgical training. The accommodations proposed by the authors take into account the bodily needs of pregnant residents and the nausea they may experience, the levels of radiation and teratogen they may be exposed to, their postpartum parental leave and breastfeeding needs, and the possibility of medical and bereavement leave (in the case of pregnancy loss), with the goal of aiding pregnant residents in meeting their residency educational and training requirements in a safe and inclusive environment. Furthermore, the authors suggest that additional policies should strive to accommodate other pregnancy-related needs, including egg preservation and fertility treatments. In examining best practices, they also stress the need to support partner presence at prenatal appointments for neurosurgical residents whose partners are expecting, as well as normalizing and encouraging parental leave equally among all residents.

    When asked about the study, Dr. Tomei said, “Recently, our program had three residents over 3 years who became pregnant during various stages of their training. It was very important for me as a program director to balance their safety as well as their education and the impact upon their coresidents. When I started looking for resources to help guide this process, there was very limited information to go by. With the new changes put forth by the ABMS, ABNS, and ACGME, it was the opportune time to compile information for programs to be able to reference. I truly hope this is just the beginning as there are so many more opportunities to explore how we can best support our trainees during these milestones.”

     

    Article: Tomei KL, Hodges TR, Ragsdale E, Katz T, Greenfield M, Sweet JA. Best practices for the pregnant neurosurgical resident: balancing safety and education.  Journal of Neurosurgery, published online, ahead of print, November 8, 2022; DOI: 10.3171/2022.9.JNS221727.

    Disclosure: The authors report no conflict of interest concerning the materials or methods used in this study or the findings specified in this paper.

    ###

     Embargoed Article Access and Author/Expert Interviews: Contact JNSPG Director of Publications Gillian Shasby at [email protected] for advance access and to arrange interviews with the authors and external experts who can provide context for this research.

    ###

     The global leader for cutting-edge neurosurgery research for more than 75 years, the Journal of Neurosurgery (www.thejns.org) is the official journal of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) representing over 12,000 members worldwide (www.AANS.org).

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  • New treatment can significantly increase the efficacy of chemotherapy and prevent metastasis

    New treatment can significantly increase the efficacy of chemotherapy and prevent metastasis

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    • The researchers identified a mechanism that generated a cancer-promoting inflammatory environment in response to chemotherapy. Based on this discovery, they developed a treatment combination that reduced the incidence of lung metastasis following chemotherapy from 52% to only 6%.

    Newswise — A new treatment developed at Tel Aviv University may significantly enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy in breast cancer patients, reducing the risk for lung metastasis following chemo from 52% to only 6%. Conducted in an animal model, the study identified the mechanism that generates a cancer-promoting inflammatory environment in response to chemotherapy. Moreover, the researchers found that by adding an anti-inflammatory agent to the chemotherapy, metastasis can be prevented.

    The study was led by Prof. Neta Erez of the Department of Pathology at TAU’s Sackler Faculty of Medicine, and researchers from her group: Lea Monteran, Dr. Nour Ershaid, Yael Zait, and Ye’ela Scharff, in collaboration with Prof. Iris Barshack of the Sheba Medical Center and Dr. Amir Sonnenblick of the Tel Aviv Sourasky (Ichilov) Medical Center. The paper was published in Nature Communications. The study was funded by ERC, the Israel Cancer Association, and the Emerson Cancer Research Fund.

    Prof. Erez: “In many cases of breast cancer, surgical removal of the primary tumor is followed by a chemotherapy regimen intended to kill any remaining malignant cells – either left behind by the surgeon or already colonizing in other organs. However, while effectively killing cancer cells, chemotherapy also has some undesirable and even harmful side effects, including damage to healthy tissues. The most dangerous of these is probably internal inflammations that might paradoxically help remaining cancer cells to form metastases in distant organs. The goal of our study was to discover how this happens and try to find an effective solution.”

    To this end, the researchers created an animal model for breast cancer metastasis. The animals received the same treatment as human patients: surgical removal of the primary tumor, then chemotherapy, followed by monitoring to detect metastatic relapse as early as possible. The disturbing results: metastatic tumors were detected in the lungs of a large percentage of the treated animals – similar to the percentage found in the control group.

    To decipher these adverse effects, the researchers examined the animals’ lungs at an intermediate stage – when tiny micro-metastases may have already developed, but even advanced imaging technologies like CT cannot detect them. Prof. Erez: “In humans this interval between chemotherapy and detection of metastatic tumors is an inaccessible ‘black box’. Working with an animal model we could check what actually happens inside this ‘box’. We discovered a previously unknown mechanism: the chemotherapy generates an inflammatory response in connective tissue cells called fibroblasts, causing them to summon immune cells from the bone marrow. This in turn creates an inflammatory environment that supports the micro-metastases, helping them grow into full-fledged metastatic tumors. In this way, the chemotherapy, administered as a means for combating cancer, achieves the opposite result.”

    The researchers also identified the mechanism through which fibroblasts recruit immune cells, and ‘train’ them to support the cancer. Prof. Erez: “We found that in response to chemotherapy, the fibroblasts secrete ‘complement proteins’ – proteins that mediate cell recruitment and intensify inflammation, often by summoning white blood cells to damaged or infected areas, a process called chemotaxis. When the immune cells reach the lungs, they create an inflammatory environment that supports cancer cells and helps them grow.”

    To combat this newly discovered process, the researchers combined the chemotherapy administered to the animals with a drug that blocks the activity of complement proteins. The results were very encouraging: following the combined treatment the percentage of animals developing no metastases rose from 32% to 67%; and the percentage of those with extensive cancer colonization in their lungs decreased from 52% with regular chemotherapy to 6% when the inflammation inhibitor was added.

    Prof. Erez concludes: “We discovered the mechanism behind a severe problem in the treatment of breast cancer: many patients develop metastatic tumors following removal of the primary tumor plus chemotherapy. We identified an inflammatory mechanism through which chemotherapy inadvertently supports the growth of metastatic tumors, and also discovered an effective solution: combining chemotherapy with an inflammation inhibitor. We hope that our findings will enable more effective treatment for breast cancer, and perhaps other types of cancer as well – to prevent metastatic relapse and save numerous lives worldwide.” 

     

    Link to the article:

    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-33598-x

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  • DNA barcoding reveals cancer cells’ ability to evade the immune system

    DNA barcoding reveals cancer cells’ ability to evade the immune system

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    Newswise — Some cancer cells can deploy parallel mechanisms to evade the immune system’s defences as well as resist immunotherapy treatment, according to a new study from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research.  

    By suppressing the action of killer T-cells and hindering the ability of the immune system to flag tumour cells for destruction, breast cancer cells are able to replicate and metastasise, the researchers found.  

    “We know that breast cancer typically doesn’t respond well to immunotherapy, and we wondered if there’s an intrinsic mechanism enabling breast cancer cells to escape the immune system,” says first author Ms Louise Baldwin, who is a PhD student in Associate Professor Alex Swarbrick’s lab at Garvan. 

    The researchers used a technique called DNA barcoding, which tags cells with a known sequence and tracks the progression of tumour cells through time. 

    “We showed that there are rare cancer cells capable of escaping the immune system and escaping treatment with immunotherapy,” Ms Baldwin says. 

    The mechanisms could be used as potential targets for therapies, to stop tumorous cells from adapting and spreading. Another future application could be in prognosis, where a high number of cells could indicate which patients might not respond to immunotherapy. 

    The new study is published in Nature Communications.  

    While immunotherapy is an effective treatment in many cancers, in some people their cancer cells evolve to outplay the immune system defences. This process is known as immunoediting, where interaction between tumour cells and immune cells results in many cancerous cells being destroyed by the immune system, but leaving some undetected, which continue to grow and spread. 

    The researchers used mouse breast cancer cells tagged with a known DNA ‘barcode’, a sequence that was passed on from one generation of cells to the next.  

    The barcoding allowed the team to see where more aggressive, resistant cells came from, as they could trace it back to the original cell to see if it had grown or shrunk.  

    “Lead author Dr Simon Junankar wanted to understand whether resistance was adaptive – whether cancer cells duck and weave – or are they pre-programmed to evade the immune system,” says Associate Professor Alex Swarbrick, a laboratory head and Co-Lead of the Dynamic Cellular Ecosystems in Cancer Program at Garvan. 

    The team found that even before treatment, the cancer cells had diversified. “Some cells had already acquired the ability to evade immunity, meaning they have an innate ability to escape the immune system,” he says.  

    The cells seem to do this with parallel approaches. One way is to suppress the action of killer T-cells, which would usually destroy harmful cells. The other is to reduce the expression of MHC1 on cells, which act as a flag for the immune system to recognise harmful cells. 

    “Most tumour cells vanish when the immune system gets switched on, but a small proportion keep growing and expanding,” says Associate Professor Swarbrick. 

    “Tumours keep evolving and diversifying, and action by the immune system or treatment like chemotherapy is like pruning a tree – cancer cells get wiped out but the remaining branches on the tree continue to grow.” 

    The researchers also looked at the genetics of the cells, but there were no genes found to be associated, suggesting epigenetics might be at play.  

     

    –ENDS– 

     

    This research was supported by research grants from the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). Louise Baldwin is supported by an Australian Government research training (RTP) stipend and Associate Professor Swarbrick is the recipient of a research fellowship from the NHMRC. 

    Associate Professor Swarbrick is a Conjoint Associate Professor at St Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney.  

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  • UC San Diego Health Awarded Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery

    UC San Diego Health Awarded Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery

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    Newswise — UC San Diego Health has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Advanced Certification in Spine Surgery (ACSS) by meeting or exceeding the highest level of national performance standards. The Gold Seal represents a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s demonstrated ability to implement result-driven processes and advance patient outcomes.

    “As the region’s only academic medical center, we proactively seek advanced certifications in specialty care that confirm our commitment to providing extraordinary care for all of our patients,” said Patty Maysent, CEO, UC San Diego Health. “This designation celebrates and recognizes UC San Diego Health as a premiere destination for routine or complex spine surgery cases.”

    To be eligible for ACSS, organizations must implement evidence-based care, clinical practice guidelines and participate in the American Spine Registry, a national quality improvement registry for spine care. Additionally, organizations need to collect performance measurement data on surgical site infection rates, new neurological deficits, unplanned return visits to the operating room, and pre-operative and post-operative patient reported outcomes.

    “This certification affirms the presence of highly reliable processes successfully implemented by a multidisciplinary team of expert specialists, whose organized focus provides the best level of care for each patient,” said Alexander Khalessi, MD, MBA, neurosurgeon and chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery at UC San Diego Health.

    The certification was achieved through an interdisciplinary collaboration between the Department of Neurological Surgery and the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at UC San Diego Health.

    “More than 100 people came together as part of our spine care teams to prepare for this certification process,” said Susan Bukata, MD, orthopedic surgeon and chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at UC San Diego Health. “The team-centered approach ensured coordination of best practices and brought diverse perspectives and expertise together to provide the highest quality of care to patients with spine disorders.”

    The multidisciplinary team included specialists from orthopedics, neurosurgery, medicine, nursing, anesthesia, pharmacy, rehabilitative services and case management.

    Offered in collaboration with the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the certification is granted to organizations with data-driven care processes, patient safeguards and demonstrated high quality patient outcomes with low complication profiles.

    “This certification demonstrates our institution is strongly positioned to hit the mark for every patient, every time,” said Khalessi. “We also meticulously track outcomes and follow-up to allow for continuous improvement that elevates the standard of care in the field.”

    UC San Diego Health underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review in September 2022. During the visit, a Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with related certification standards, including anonymized patient cases, surgical outcomes, quality data collection methods and a review of care pathway processes.

    Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewer also conducted onsite observations and interviews with team members.

    “As a private accreditor, The Joint Commission surveys health care organizations to protect the public by identifying deficiencies in care and working with those organizations to correct them as quickly and sustainably as possible,” says Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Accreditation and Certification Operations, and chief nursing executive, The Joint Commission. “We commend UC San Diego Health for its continuous quality improvement efforts in patient safety and quality of care.”

    UC San Diego Health is the regional referral center for complex spine reconstructions and a national leader in minimally invasive spine surgery, as well as other surgical and non-surgical treatments for spinal disorders.

    In the 2022-2022 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” survey, UC San Diego Health was ranked the #1 hospital system in San Diego and #5 in California. The hospital system was ranked 21st for neurology and neurosurgery care and 39th for orthopedics, among the nation’s top 50 programs out of more than 4,500 hospitals nationwide.

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  • Personalising whole genome sequencing doubles diagnosis of rare diseases

    Personalising whole genome sequencing doubles diagnosis of rare diseases

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    Newswise — Tailoring the analysis of whole genome sequencing to individual patients could double the diagnostic rates of rare diseases, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.

    In 2018, the UK’s department of health announced an NHS Genomic Medicine Service, which allows patients with rare diseases to have their entire genetic code read in the hope of providing a much-needed diagnosis.

    However, the interpretation of this data can be extremely challenging and many people with complex, rare genetic diseases still do not receive a molecular answer to the cause of their problems.

    In the study, published in Nature Communications, researchers at The London Mitochondrial Centre at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology and UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health sought to offer such patients an improved chance of receiving a genetic diagnosis.

    To do so, they tested how using a genomic medicine team of specialist doctors, bioinformaticians, and scientists could boost the capabilities of NHS diagnostic laboratories beyond the standard semi-automated analysis of data. The UCL team re-evaluated undiagnosed cases to identify clues that might help direct further, more personalised analysis. They subsequently applied additional bioinformatic approaches, using advanced computer technologies to identify genetic alterations in a patients’ DNA which may be causing disease but had been overlooked during routine testing.

    The work included 102 undiagnosed patients, suspected of having a primary mitochondrial disease (a large group of incurable genetic disorders that affect children and adults, associated with a broad spectrum of medical problems, severe disabilities, and reduced lifespan), who had undergone whole genome sequencing via the NHS’s 100,000 Genomes Project.

    This personalised approach increased the diagnostic rate from 16.7% to 31.4%. It also detected potential disease-causing variants in a further 3.9% of patients.

    Lead author, Dr Robert Pitceathly (co-lead for the London NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders and a research group leader at UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology), said: “The NHS has invested heavily in advanced genetic technologies. Consequently, the UK has established itself at the forefront of diagnostic whole genome sequencing. That said, some people with rare genetic diseases remain without a molecular diagnosis after their genome is analysed.

    “We believe investing in specialist genomic medicine teams is crucial, ensuring equitable access to dedicated multidisciplinary expertise and maximising diagnoses. On average, patients in our study waited over 30 years for a diagnosis – we now have the capability to solve such cases but need adequate workforce planning to support NHS diagnostic genetic laboratories in achieving this goal.”

    Receiving a genetic diagnosis is important as it allows patients to receive access to family planning, specialised IVF, and drugs trials. It can also permit targeted screening of known disease complications and access to drug studies.

    Dr Pitceathly said: “In this study, every new genetic diagnosis had a direct impact on patient care. This included additional check-ups for heart problems, hearing loss, and diabetes, and access to clinical trials.”

    Professor Michael Hanna, Director of UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology said: “This work is a significant step forward in developing the best ways to maximise the benefits of genome analysis for patients. It clearly demonstrates that by combining automated approaches to genome analysis with data interpretation by a skilled multidisciplinary team the diagnostic rates doubles. This is an important finding that will influence how genomic medicine diagnostic services should evolve world-wide.”

    Co-author, Dr James Davison (Metabolic Medicine Department at Great Ormond Street Hospital and chair of the British Inherited Metabolic Diseases Group), said: “The journey to reaching a diagnosis for children and adults with rare, complex, medical conditions can be a very long process, and genomic medicine provides a transformative and powerful tool in helping reach that goal.

    “This study highlights the importance of the collaboration between specialist clinicians and genetic scientists in interpreting the results of genome sequencing to maximise the opportunity of reaching a diagnosis which can then help guide medical management and treatment options.”

    The researchers involved in this study are funded by the Medical Research Council.

    Patient story

    Rachel North was one of the patients involved in the trial and described getting a diagnosis as “life changing”. It has since allowed her to be screened for disease complications such as osteopenia, and these have been treated.

    She said: “I had attended so many hospitals over the past 20 years and had been searching so long, I never thought I’d get a diagnosis.

    “Wondering about it took up so much energy, and I was worried about my 12-year-old son, and if my condition would affect him. So, getting a rare recessive diagnosis was a relief and takes away fear of the unknown.

    “Having a diagnosis allows me to research my condition and be very proactive in managing it.

    “Anything that helps me understand and make sense of what is happening to my body helps me come to terms with it and gives me confidence that I am managing it as well as possible.”

    Notes to Editors

     

    William L. Macken, Micol Falabella, Caroline McKittrick, Chiara Pizzamiglio, Rebecca Ellmers, Kelly Eggleton, Cathy E. Woodward, Yogan Patel, Robyn Labrum, Genomics England Research Consortium, Rahul Phadke, Mary M. Reilly, Catherine DeVile, Anna Sarkozy, Emma Footitt, James Davison, Shamima Rahman, Henry Houlden, Enrico Bugiardini, Rosaline Quinlivan, Michael G. Hanna, Jana Vandrovcova, Robert D. S. Pitceathly. Specialist multidisciplinary input maximises rare disease diagnoses from whole genome sequencing, will be published in Nature Communications, on 7th November 2022 at 10:00 GMT / 05:00 ET.

     

    The DOI for this paper will be: 10.1038/s41467-022-32908-7

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    University College London

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  • GSK Says Dreamm-3 Phase 3 Study For Blenrep Didn’t Meet Primary Endpoint

    GSK Says Dreamm-3 Phase 3 Study For Blenrep Didn’t Meet Primary Endpoint

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    By Michael Susin

    GSK PLC said Monday that its Dreamm-3 Phase 3 study in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma didn’t meet its primary endpoint of progression-free survival.
    

    The pharmaceutical giant said that the study compared its monotherapy Blenrep versus pomalidomide in combination with low dose dexamethasone and observed median progression-free survival was longer for Blenrep.
    

    

    “These trials are designed to demonstrate the benefit of Blenrep in combination treatment with novel therapies and standard-of-care treatments in earlier lines of therapy and dosing optimization to maintain efficacy while reducing corneal events,” it added.
    

    The company said additional trials will continue and further data from the studies are anticipated in the first half of 2023.
    

    Write to Michael Susin at michael.susin@wsj.com
    

    

    

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    Chest Pain Patients Benefit from Precision Diagnostic Testing Approach
    
			
    Chest Pain Patients Benefit from Precision Diagnostic Testing Approach
    
			
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    Newswise — DURHAM, N.C. –  A study comparing two approaches for diagnosing heart disease found that a risk analysis strategy is superior to the usual approach of immediately performing functional tests or catheterization for low- to intermediate-risk patients with new-onset chest pain.
    

    Presented Nov. 6 at the American Heart Association’s 2022 Scientific Sessions, the study bolsters a risk-analysis strategy that either defers testing among low-risk patients, or uses coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA), a CT scan with a contrast agent to assess for blockages.
    

    The risk analysis approach has been outlined in guidelines and is championed as a means of reducing often unnecessary and costly tests. It has never been tested rigorously in a randomized trial, however, and its clinical application has lagged without definitive evidence of its effectiveness compared to various functional stress tests.
    

    “New onset chest pain is a common clinical problem that involves a lot of testing, work and expense,” said study lead Pamela S. Douglas, M.D., a member of the Duke Clinical Research Institute and the Ursula Geller Professor of Research in Cardiovascular Diseases at Duke University School of Medicine.
    

    “Our study provides evidence that, among low-risk patients, the tests will likely be negative for coronary artery disease and patients will go on to do well,” Douglas said. “As a result, we should be deferring testing in these low-risk people.”
    

    Douglas and colleagues enrolled more than 2,100 patients across the U.S. and Europe with new-onset chest pain in the PRECISE clinical trial. Participants’ average age was 58, with roughly equal numbers of men and women.
    

    Half of the patients were randomly assigned to receive usual testing — including stress echocardiogram, nuclear stress test, stress MRI or catheterization — which physicians selected at their discretion.
    

    The other half of participants were randomized to the precision strategy, which uses a pre-test probability assessment to guide next steps, including deferred testing or CTA, with selective use of image analysis software to determine the significance of any blockages.
    

    Within both groups, about 21% of symptomatic patients were assessed to be at low risk of heart disease. Of these low-risk patients in the usual testing group, 86% underwent some sort of test, compared to 37% in the precision strategy group.
    

    The primary focus was whether, within a year, there were any differences between the two diagnostic approaches for any combination of the following outcomes: deaths from any cause, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or catheterizations that did not show blockages and may have been unnecessary.
    

    The researchers found that the precision strategy substantially reduced the incidence of the composite endpoint compared to the usual stress testing approaches.
    

    To provide a full picture of clinical value, the investigators balanced this demonstrated effectiveness with examination of any safety concerns. There were no differences in death or the composite of death and myocardial infarction, but there was a small, non-significant difference in nonfatal myocardial infarction in the precision group.
    

    “In stable, symptomatic patients with suspected heart disease who physicians feel require testing, a precision strategy incorporating a set of actions based on guideline recommendations, will improve outcomes compared to usual testing,” Douglas said.
    

    In addition to Douglas, study authors include Michael G. Nanna, Michelle D. Kelsey, Eric Yow, Daniel B. Mark, Manesh R. Patel, Campbell Rogers, James E. Udelson, Christopher B. Fordyce, Nick Curzen, Gianluca Pontone, Pál Maurovich-Horvat, Bernard De Bruyne, John P. Greenwood, Victor Marinescu, Jonathon Leipsic, Gregg W. Stone, Ori Ben-Yehuda, Colin Berry, Shea E. Hogan, Bjorn Redfors, Ziad A. Ali, Robert A. Byrne, Christopher M. Kramer, Robert W. Yeh, Beth Martinez, Sarah Mullen, Whitney Huey, Kevin J. Anstrom, Hussein R. Al-Khalidi, and Sreekanth Vemulapalli, for the PRECISE Investigators/
    

    The study received funding from HeartFlow, a medical technology company.
    

     
    

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    Michelle A. Josephson, MD, FASN, to Become Next President of the American Society of Nephrology
    
			
    Michelle A. Josephson, MD, FASN, to Become Next President of the American Society of Nephrology
    
			
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    Newswise — Washington, DC (November 6, 2022) — The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) is pleased to announce that Michelle A. Josephson, MD, FASN, will become the society’s next president. Dr. Josephson, who succeeds Susan E. Quaggin, MD, FASN, will assume her new role on January 1, 2023.
    

    A highly experienced physician and academic leader, Dr. Josephson is currently a professor of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Chicago, medical director of the University of Chicago Kidney and Pancreas Transplant Program, and program director of the Transplant Nephrology Fellowship.
    

    Dr. Josephson is deeply committed to research, education, and care in the realm of kidney transplantation, with particular interests in living kidney donation, post-transplant bone disease, BK virus, and pregnancy in transplant recipients. Having authored more than 100 articles and 5 book chapters and having presented numerous invited lectures nationally and internationally, Dr. Josephson has helped to shape the field of nephrology—from clinical research to clinical care, to education for the next generation of nephrologists.
    

    Dr. Josephson currently serves on the ASN Council as President-Elect. She has served as chair of the Transplant Advisory Group, the Policy and Advocacy Committee, and the ASN Early Program on Kidney Transplantation. She has also been a member of numerous ASN committees and groups, including the ASN COVID response team. Dr. Josephson chaired the American Society of Transplantation (AST) Cutting Edge of Transplantation 2020 and 2021 meetings, and the KDIGO Controversies Conference on the Failing Allograft. From 2007 to 2010 she served as a Councilor-at-Large on the AST Board of Directors. From 2005-2006 she was President of Women in Nephrology. She serves on the editorial board of CJASN and was an Associate Editor for Transplantation.
    

    “It’s an exciting time to be ASN’s incoming president,” said Dr. Josephson. “I’m truly honored to be in this role as we continue to see numerous advances and increased awareness related to kidney health with ASN at the forefront.”
    

    ASN Kidney Week 2022, the largest nephrology meeting of its kind, will provide a forum for nephrologists and other kidney health professionals to discuss the latest findings in research and engage in educational sessions related to advances in the care of patients with kidney diseases and related disorders. 
    

    Since 1966, ASN has been leading the fight to prevent, treat, and cure kidney diseases throughout the world by educating health professionals and scientists, advancing research and innovation, communicating new knowledge, and advocating for the highest quality care for patients. ASN has more than 20,000 members representing 132 countries. For more information, visit www.asn-online.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
    

     
    

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     American Society of Nephrology (ASN)
    

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