Latest news with #UTHealth
South China Morning Post
3 days ago
- Health
- South China Morning Post
How eating whole food, plant-based proteins lowers the risk of having high blood pressure
Eating more minimally processed plant-based proteins – such as beans, nuts and lentils – may lower the risk for high blood pressure, according to new research. Advertisement The study, published recently in the Journal of the American Heart Association, also suggested that minimally processed animal proteins could be included in weekly meal plans without significantly affecting a person's high blood pressure risk 'Our study focused on foods, not the plant-based supplements that can be found on store shelves,' said the study's senior author Dr Marcia Otto, a nutritional epidemiologist and an associate professor at UT Health Houston School of Public Health in the US state of Texas. Nearly half of all adults in the US have high blood pressure, or hypertension, a condition that raises the risk for heart attacks strokes and other health problems. Tofu and soybeans are good sources of plant-based proteins. Photo: Shutterstock Prior research has shown diet plays a critical role in the prevention and management of high blood pressure.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Study Finds Link Between COVID Infection and Miscarriage—Experts Weigh in on the Risks
Fact checked by Sarah Scott A recent study found that people infected with COVID before or during pregnancy are two to three times more likely to experience a miscarriage before week 20 of pregnancy. The study, which involved nearly 27,000 pregnancies, used electronic health records to determine the relationship between COVID and miscarriage from 2019 to 2023. They also looked at the incidence of ectopic pregnancy and preterm delivery. The news is troubling, and might have parents to be feeling anxious. Here, Parents spoke with Micaela Sandoval, PhD, MPH, one of the study authors and an epidemiologist with UTHealth Houston, to explain what the study's results mean, and how you can keep yourself safe if you're planning to become pregnant. Dr. Sandoval says the study revealed that the overall proportion of pregnancies that ended in miscarriage was 6%—still a low number, but higher among people who had COVID in the past. "In our models, the odds of a pregnancy ending in miscarriage were 2.81 times higher among women who had had moderate to severe COVID-19 before getting pregnant, compared to women who had not had COVID-19 before getting pregnant." Additionally, she says pregnant people who had moderate to severe COVID-19 in early pregnancy had 2.45 times greater odds of miscarriage compared to women who had no COVID-19 during their pregnancy. "This study reviewed the incidence of miscarriage over time in their group of patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis, and compared it to the group of patients that did not have a COVID-19 infection before or during pregnancy," says Sasha Andrews, MD, a board-certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Pediatrix Medical Group in Denver, Colorado who is not affiliated with the study. "Interestingly, the miscarriage rate in this study was lower than the rate generally quoted, which is approximately 15% of recognized pregnancies." Studies indicate that this percentage of pregnancies result in miscarriage during the first trimester. That said, the actual incidence of miscarriage, related to COVID or not, is difficult to determine and varies by the study population, adds Dr. Andrews. Many losses occur before the diagnosis of pregnancy, she says—in other words, before the person even knows they are pregnant or has the chance to see a doctor. The authors also found that increasing age, Black or Hispanic ethnicity, and medical conditions were associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. These findings are consistent with other studies of pregnancies and miscarriage rates not affected by COVID-19, says Dr. Andrews. COVID-19 can place significant stress on the body, especially during early pregnancy, when the baby is developing, says Amanda P. Williams, MD, MPH, FACOG, interim chief medical officer for the March of Dimes. "Pregnancy makes a person more vulnerable to viruses like COVID-19 because the immune system shifts to support the growing baby," she explains. When someone becomes infected during pregnancy, Dr. Williams says the immune system causes a strong inflammatory response that can negatively impact the growing placenta and fetus. "COVID-19 may also cause high fevers, which is an established risk factor for pregnancy loss," she says. "In more severe cases, infection can impair placental function or limit oxygen delivery to the fetus. While research is still emerging, studies like this one add to the growing body of evidence that COVID-19 negatively affects pregnancy outcomes for both mom and baby." According to Dr. Sandoval, these results demonstrate the importance of vaccination and post-COVID management in pregnant people or those planning to get pregnant. "Women who are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy should talk to their doctor about the COVID-19 vaccine and management options," says Dr. Sandoval. "Additionally, pregnant women who think they might have COVID-19 should inform their provider as soon as possible to discuss available treatment or management strategies." This study, like others before it, reinforces that miscarriage risk is influenced by many factors, many of which existed long before COVID-19 infection was so widespread, explains Dr. Williams. "Advanced maternal age, chronic health conditions, and systemic inequities, particularly among communities of color, can all compound the risk," she adds. Even without COVID-19 being a factor in your life, being 35 or older, having high blood pressure or diabetes, or experiencing socioeconomic stressors can increase the likelihood of pregnancy loss. "What COVID seems to do is amplify those existing risks. For example, people from historically marginalized communities already face higher rates of maternal complications due to longstanding structural inequities, and they've also been disproportionately affected by COVID-19," says Dr. Williams. Risks of miscarriage can also be influenced by smoking, alcohol, and diabetes, says Lauren Demosthenes, MD, an OB-GYN, senior medical director with Babyscripts, and associate professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville. "But the main cause of first-trimester miscarriage is genetic abnormalities, which increase with the age of the mother." In fact, approximately 50% of all cases of early pregnancy loss are due to fetal chromosomal abnormalities. Although having a miscarriage is not always something that can be prevented, and you should not blame yourself or something you did if you experience pregnancy loss, there are things you can do to make sure you have the healthiest pregnancy possible. Here are some strategies you can implement to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy. Make prenatal care a priority. Schedule your first prenatal visit as soon as you find out you're pregnant, and go to all your checkups, even if you feel fine, says Dr. Williams. "Early and regular prenatal care helps identify and manage potential issues before they become serious. Talk to your provider about your COVID exposure. If you get COVID-19 or think you've been exposed, let your OB-GYN or midwife know, says Dr. Williams. They can guide you on what steps to take. Discuss vaccines recommended in pregnancy. The COVID-19 vaccine and other recommended immunizations, such as Influenza, RSV, and Pertussis, are safe during pregnancy and can help protect you and your baby, says Dr. Williams. "Vaccination during pregnancy not just decreases the chance of infection for the pregnant person, but the new baby also gains protective antibodies, which is particularly important as newborns cannot receive many vaccinations until months later." Manage chronic health conditions. Work with your provider to keep conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, and autoimmune disorders under control, says Dr. Williams. "These can increase the risk of complications if not well-managed during pregnancy." Take care of your body. Get plenty of rest, eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and take a prenatal vitamin with folic acid, suggests Dr. Williams. "These habits support both immune health and fetal development. " Avoid harmful substances and exposures. Don't smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs during pregnancy, says Dr. Williams. Also, steer clear of toxic chemicals like paint thinners, pesticides, and secondhand smoke, she says. Have an appropriate view of miscarriage and get support. According to Katherine Wolfe, DO, a maternal-fetal specialist and the director of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Program at Akron Children's, often the cause of miscarriage is an underlying genetic condition, and chromosomal microarray—in these instances, the loss was out of your control. "Miscarriage can be a devastating event, and emotional support is imperative."Aside from getting vaccinated, there are other things you can do to prevent COVID, says Dr. Wolfe. These include: Practicing good hand hygiene Avoiding contact with people who are sick Improving air quality by filtering indoor air with an air purifier Cleaning or replacing HVAC filters regularly Planning social gatherings outside Wearing a mask in crowded areasIf you test positive for COVID-19 in early pregnancy, contact your OB-GYN or midwife. They can help you understand what the infection might mean for your pregnancy and determine if additional monitoring or care is needed based on your health history. Sometimes healthcare providers will recommend treating COVID with Paxlovid during pregnancy. "Having COVID during pregnancy increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes like preeclampsia and preterm delivery. It can also increase the risk of a more serious illness," says Dr. Demosthenes. While it's normal to have concerns, a COVID infection doesn't guarantee complications or a miscarriage, adds Dr. Williams. "Staying informed and connected to your healthcare provider is the best way to protect your health and your baby's. They're there to answer your questions and support you throughout your pregnancy."According to Dr. Andrews, COVID-19 has not been associated with fetal malformations, even when an infection occurs early in the first trimester. "Additionally, there are other studies that have not demonstrated an increased risk of miscarriage." Having COVID during pregnancy does not automatically mean you will experience the original article on Parents
Daily Mail
15-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mail
Heat dome hits US state making it hotter than the Sahara Desert
Texas is currently experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures in several cities surpassing those typically found in the Sahara dessert. A heat dome moving in over the state is causing record breaking high temperatures this week, posing severe health risks for residents. The temperature is expected to range from 90° to 106° Fahrenheit on Thursday. A heat dome is a high-pressure area with hot air trapped inside, making the area even hotter. In San Antonio, the temperature soared to 106°F, while areas like Austin exceeded 103°F. Dallas also recorded extremely high temperatures Thursday with forecasters predicting even more heat in the coming days. The National Weather Service has issued warnings about the prolonged nature of this heatwave, emphasizing the dangers of heat related illness. Dr. Ralph Riviello from UT Health San Antonio, highlighted the risk of heatstroke, particularly for children, the elderly, and anyone working outdoors. He also added that doctors are expecting to see cases of mild dehydration and fainting in local emergency rooms. High humidity makes it more difficult for your body to cool down because perspiration doesn't drain as quickly. Because of this, the heat index is frequently greater than the air temperature and is used to predict the likelihood of heat-related illnesses. On X, the National Weather Service in Austin and San Antonio tweeted: 'Many will not be acclimated to this type of heat so early within the year and thus the risk for heat related illness is higher than normal.' The state's electrical grid is also under immense pressure, with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) reporting record-breaking electricity demand exceeding 78,000 megawatts this month. That already surpasses the previous May record of 77,000 megawatts set just last year. The surge is attributed to the widespread use of air conditioning as Texans seek relief from the oppressive heat. With record power consumption, the unusually high temperatures during the heat dome may lead to blackouts. Extreme weather-related power outages, whether from heat waves or cold snaps, are nothing new to Texas, which has its own autonomous infrastructure. Since a winter power crisis in 2021, the state has significantly increased its solar power and battery storage. Climate scientists have said that this extreme weather event is becoming more intense due to climate change. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) noted that the last two years have broken global temperature records, and the last 10 years have all been the hottest on record since 1850. Although it is difficult to link specific extreme weather events to climate change, research indicates that global warming is making heat waves more common, longer, and more intense globally. In response to the crises, cities like Austin are implementing measures to combat the heat. Austin's heat resilience plan includes increasing tree canopy by 50 percent by 2050, expanding cooling centers, and strengthening community outreach to those in need of cooling. Austin, San Antonio, and Del Rio have recorded new daytime high temperature records on Wednesday due to Texas's current heat dome. Austin broke the previous record of 96°F established in 2003 by reaching 100°F. The previous record of 97°F from 2022 was surpassed in San Antonio this week after temperatures hit 102°F. Additionally, Del Rio broke their previous record of 103°F set in 2003 after meteorologists recorded 104°F on Wednesday. In a long-term forecast, the National Weather Service said that any way you look at it, it is going to be a very hot weekend across all of the South Central Texas that likely extends into early next week.
Time Magazine
13-05-2025
- Health
- Time Magazine
What to Do If You Get Diagnosed with an Ovarian Cyst
Ovarian cysts, which are small fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on the ovaries, are very common and are usually harmless. In fact, 'the process of ovulation—maturing an egg and releasing it—basically makes at least a little cyst, which pops when the egg is released, and then these cysts resolve,' explains Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, an ob-gyn at Yale Medicine. These are often called 'functional cysts,' and they usually go away on their own. Other types of ovarian cysts include hemorrhagic cysts (which bleed and cause pain), dermoid cysts (which may contain skin cells and sebaceous glands), and endometriomas (which are filled with dark, thick blood and develop as a result of endometriosis). Ovarian cysts also can occur with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but they don't always. Here's what to know about ovarian cysts. How ovarian cysts affect women Most ovarian cysts are the size of a grape or cherry and don't cause symptoms. But cysts that grow quickly can cause pain in the pelvis near the hipbone and a feeling of persistent pressure. 'This discomfort can be intermittent or constant and may feel sharp or dull,' says Dr. Kelli V. Burroughs, an ob-gyn at UT Health—University of Texas Medical School at Houston. By contrast, cysts that rupture or burst can cause intense pelvic pain and sometimes slight bleeding, says Minkin. 'The pain will get better as the fluid gets absorbed by the lining of the abdominal cavity.' Read More: Can You Actually Delay Menopause? Also, with a complication called ovarian torsion, the ovary can become twisted around the supporting tissue if a cyst gets large, says Dr. Michael B. Baldonieri, an ob-gyn at the Case Western University School of Medicine. 'This can cause unrelenting, severe lower pelvic pain, along with nausea and vomiting.' This is considered a medical emergency because a torsion can cut off the blood supply to the ovary, causing the ovary to die if it's not surgically untwisted. How most ovarian cysts are treated What an ovarian cyst looks like on a transvaginal ultrasound and how it's affecting a woman helps determine how it's treated, says Dr. Daniel Ginn, an assistant clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UCLA. If it looks like a collection of fluid in a small pouch or balloon and if the woman has minimal or no symptoms, a doctor may recommend 'watchful waiting'—monitoring symptoms and repeating a pelvic ultrasound every six to eight weeks to see if the cyst has changed in size. During an ultrasound, a clinician will assess the size and structure of the mass, where it's located, and any other notable features, 'all of which can help differentiate benign from potentially malignant growths,' Burroughs says. Women with ovarian cysts often worry that they could be a sign of ovarian cancer. While that's possible, it's not common. If a mass on the ovary has solid components as well as fluid, it could be a sign of ovarian cancer. 'An ultrasound usually gives us a good idea if the cyst has some solid components,' says Minkin. But if the cyst is clearly fluid-filled and hasn't changed over time, the risk of cancer is low, even among older women. A study in a 2024 issue of the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that among women ages 50 and older who had stable ovarian cysts detected on ultrasound, the risk of ovarian cancer was 0.27% over a follow-up period of 3.5 years. On the other hand, 'cysts that get bigger are concerning,' says Ginn. And 'if there's abnormal blood flow through a cyst or fingerlike projections at the periphery of a cyst, that's more concerning.' In these instances, a doctor may order blood tests to measure cancer antigen 125 (CA 125, for short), a protein that's often elevated when someone has ovarian cancer, and other tumor markers. If a cyst's appearance raises concerns—especially if the woman has elevated CA 125 levels—she will likely be referred to a gynecologic oncologist for specialized evaluation and treatment. If an ovarian cyst isn't causing symptoms or only mild ones, it may not need to be treated and can simply be monitored over time. 'Two-thirds of ovarian cysts are going to resolve on their own,' Ginn says. How to feel better For ovarian cysts that cause pain, medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or another non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug can help, Baldonieri says. So can applying a heat or ice pack—whichever feels better to you—to the painful area. If a cyst is large enough or causing serious discomfort, it can be removed through laparoscopic surgery, which is performed with small incisions through the abdomen, Ginn says. 'Ovarian preservation is always a priority so you can keep your hormones, which are important for heart health, bone health, and cognition.' For women who frequently get large or painful cysts, 'we try to suppress ovulation, which is why ovarian cysts emerge in the first place,' says Ginn. This is usually done with oral contraceptives (or their hormonal equivalent), which can help prevent new cysts from forming.
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Excess belly fat ‘impairs learning, memory and emotion control in teenagers'
Teenagers with excess belly fat could face problems with learning, memory and emotion control, a study suggests. Key brain areas were found to be larger in youngsters carrying excess weight around the abdomen. Researchers said the findings are 'particularly alarming' given the importance of adolescence when it comes to brain development. They suggest that tackling obesity among children will not only improve physical health, but could also improve brain health. For the study, which is being presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Malaga, data from 3,320 children taking part in an ongoing US study on how childhood experiences impact brain development and health were analysed. The average age of the group was nine, with youngsters recruited from cities across 17 US states and followed for four years, from 2016 to 2018 and from 2020 to 2022. The children were categorised on obesity status, with more than a third (34.6%) classed as having abdominal obesity, which was determined by measuring waist circumference. MRI scans revealed several regions of the brain had more volume in youngsters carrying excess belly fat compared to those without. The biggest changes were in the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory formation, and the amygdala, the brain's emotional centre that is particularly involved in processing fear and anxiety. The hippocampus was found to be around 6.6% larger, while the amygdala was about 4.3% bigger. Dr Augusto Cesar F De Moraes, of UTHealth Houston School of Public Health in Austin, said: 'Our findings suggest that obesity, particularly abdominal obesity, can impair teenagers' learning, memory and control of emotions. 'I worry about how these changes, which are occurring at the age of 13 or 14, might affect them later in life. 'This is particularly alarming, given that the teenage years are such an important time for brain development. 'There's even a chance they could be at a higher risk of things like memory problems or dementia as they get older. 'That's why we believe supporting healthier habits early on is so important, not just for physical health, but for brain health too. 'Treating and preventing adolescent obesity won't only improve health – it may improve brain health, too.' The study also found children from more deprived areas had reduced development in a number of areas in the brain, including the hippocampus and amygdala, as well as the putamen, the brain structure involved in learning and motor control. Dr De Moraes added: 'This difference was even more pronounced among adolescents with persistent abdominal obesity. 'It highlights the urgent need to address both social inequality and health risks to support not only physical wellbeing but also healthy brain development in youth.'
