USPSTF, February 12, 2018. In order to more widely recommend ABI, we need more studies directly evaluating both the efficacy and harms. Most importantly, we encourage the USPSTF to review studies that analyze the accuracy of ABI and its effect on improving health outcomes in asymptomatic PAD patients.
Read More »Preventing Disease & Staying Healthy
We all know that it’s good to exercise, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, and get a good night’s sleep. But it’s hard to change our habits, especially if we don’t have persuasive proof that it will improve our lives and health.
The National Center for Health Research is constantly reviewing new research to determine what we can do that will prevent diseases and keep us healthy.
Excellent research is being conducted to learn exactly what kinds of foods and exercise will help you prevent specific diseases, and what exposures to avoid in your daily life. The results are sometimes confusing because new products to prevent diseases are aggressively advertised, whether they work or not. Sometimes the best strategies are ones that don’t cost anything – but who is going to pay to advertise those?
We cut through the hype. We scrutinize new research, and call the researchers to learn even more. Then we translate it into plain language that you can understand.
To find the information you need, please use our search box to search for exactly what you are looking for or browse through our various topics on the right. →
If you’re looking for information about how to prevent cancer, go to our Cancer Prevention and Treatment web site at www.stopcancerfund.org . If you don’t see what you’re looking for on any health topic, contact us through our online health helpline at info@center4research.org. We’ll try to get the information you need within a few days.
NCHR and WomenHeart Comments on USPSTF Draft Recommendation Statement Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Screening with Electrocardiography (ECG)
Jan 22, 2018, We commend the USPSTF for reviewing the evidence and developing evidence-based recommendations. There is substantial evidence to recommend against screening in low risk adults and is insufficient to support screening in higher risk adults.
Read More »Football and Brain Injuries: What You Need to Know
There are many hidden dangers of contact sports like football, but new rules emphasizing safety over entertainment may help to reduce risks.
Read More »NCHR Testimony at the FDA about New Spine Device, Barricaid Anular Closure
December 12, 2017, Patients who suffer with back pain need better alternatives for long term relief. The Barricaid device might be the answer, but the limited data provided suggests it is unlikely to offer the kinds of benefits that patients need. The study indicates substantial device failures. Its use in limited discectomy remains unknown, because most subjects had more extensive surgeries. In addition, the short-term benefits appear to be modest and wane after 24 months. Long term studies with blinding conducted inside the US may provide more certainty, but at this time the data are insufficient to recommend approval.
Read More »Does Gun Control Really Work?
More research is needed to conclude which policies are most important at preventing firearm-related deaths, but the results suggest that stricter gun-control laws may help.
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