Exposure to Air Pollution, Genetic Susceptibility, and Psoriasis Risk in the UK
In this cohort study with 474,055 participants, long-term exposure to air pollutants, including fine particulate matter with diameters less than 2.5 µm and less than 10 µm, nitrogen dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, was associated with an increased risk of psoriasis. Additionally, there was a significant interaction between air pollution and genetic predisposition for incident psoriasis. Full Access: JAMA
Exposure to Zika Virus May Increase Risk of Dengue Disease
Individuals with a previous infection with Zika virus may be more vulnerable to symptomatic infections of certain types of dengue virus, according to a cohort study of 3,412 children aged 2 to 17 years old in Nicaragua. Full Access: JAMA
Nearly 200 Cases of Dengue Virus Reported in New York and New Jersey: CDC
The CDC issued a health alert last month warning healthcare clinicians of an increased risk of dengue virus infection this year. Globally, new cases of dengue have been the highest on record, according to the CDC. Over 2,500 people have been infected in the U.S. so far this year, about five times higher than the same time last year. Full Access: CDC
Simulation-Based Training Program Improves Evaluation of Undescended Testicles
Also known as cryptorchidism, undescended testicles are common congenital anomalies in which one or more of a baby’s testicles have not moved into the proper position. Prompt diagnosis through a thorough physical exam, typically followed by surgery, can help prevent future complications, such as fertility issues, hormonal problems, and testicular cancer. Yet research suggests that physicians may not be comfortable or confident performing the exam and may not refer to pediatric urologist within the recommended timeline of ages 6 to 18 months. In fact, many physicians report receiving little structured training around the exam. After training, more than 90 percent of the physicians reported feeling more confident in their ability to perform the exam, diagnose an undescended testicle, document their clinical findings, and know when to refer to a pediatric urologist. In addition, three months after the training, 42 percent had decreased the number of ultrasounds they ordered for undescended testicles, and 33 percent referred patients to a pediatric urologist at an earlier age than before the training session. Full Access: Boston Children’s Hospital
