Medicine Update
February 2024
in “
IJCP
”
TLDR The CDC reports 23 measles cases in unvaccinated US kids, new treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis and osteopenia are approved, poor sleep may cause migraines, atopic dermatitis could lead to asthma, migraines might increase Crohn's disease risk, cancer may raise heart disease risk, gout is linked to prostate issues, Cabo Verde is malaria-free, social factors and vitamin D affect dementia risk, smoking increases hair loss risk, certain drugs might lower thyroid disease risk in arthritis, noma is a neglected disease, and meal timing could impact heart health.
The CDC has reported 23 confirmed measles cases in the US from December 1, 2023, to January 23, 2024, primarily in unvaccinated children and adolescents. The FDA approved dupilumab for eosinophilic esophagitis in children aged 1-11 years and weighing ≥15 kg, and Osteoboost, a wearable belt device for postmenopausal women with osteopenia. Poor sleep quality is linked to a 22% increased likelihood of a morning migraine. Children with mild atopic dermatitis (AD) have a doubled risk of developing asthma, with higher risks for those with moderate to severe AD. Migraine is associated with an increased risk of Crohn's disease, and cancer is suggested as a new risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Men with gout have a higher incidence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), especially those under 60. Cabo Verde is declared malaria-free by WHO. UK Biobank study identifies additional risk factors for young-onset dementia, including vitamin D deficiency and social isolation. Smoking is linked to an 82% increased likelihood of male-pattern hair loss. DMARDs may decrease the risk of autoimmune thyroid disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients. WHO lists noma as a neglected tropical disease. Early breakfast and avoiding late-night meals may reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
