New insight into the cause of sudden infant death syndrome — and more
For Monday, Sept. 9, WGN’s Dina Bair has the latest on new medical information, including:
More Coverage: WGN’s Medical Watch
Scientists make gains in search for biomarker that could help predict SIDS
New insight into the cause of sudden infant death syndrome.
UC San Francisco scientists found biomarkers they say represent a risk factor for SIDS, a finding that could translate to prevention.
They analyzed metabolic signals of infants who died of SIDS and found similarities.
Those patterns could help identify children at higher risk for sudden infant death syndrome and potentially save lives.
Environmental factors like cigarette smoke and alcohol during pregnancy and air pollution are known to increase the risk for SIDS.
Doctors say this study is a critical step toward integrating metabolic markers, potential genetic markers and other risk factors to better assess the chance of SIDS in infants.
New gene therapy treatment for glaucoma
It’s a debilitating eye condition that impacts 80 million people worldwide and can lead to complete vision loss.
Trinity College London scientists say they used gene therapy to protect key retinal ganglion cells that are important for vision.
The therapy increased oxygen and energy, enhancing cell function.
Doctors hope this will provide a much-needed alternative to people facing glaucoma diagnosis.
Study: Cancer & family health risks
A cancer diagnosis can negatively impact a loved one’s health.
The American Cancer Society reports a family member’s cancer diagnosis increases first-degree relatives’ and spouses’ chances of heart illnesses and mental health strain.
The stress and trauma of dealing with cancer is a family affair impacting the mood and heart health of both the patient and their loved ones.
The study examined nearly 50,000 cancer patients and 78,000 first-degree relatives over 15 years.
Sign up for our Medical Watch newsletter. This daily update includes important information from WGN’s Dina Bair and the Med Watch team, including, the latest updates from health organizations, in-depth reporting on advancements in medical technology and treatments, as well as personal features related to people in the medical field. Sign up here.
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.