New Data Highlighting Possible Impact Of ESA Reimbursement Policies On Patient Care, USA
Data from three studies evaluating associations between lower mean baseline hemoglobin (Hb) levels and the rate of blood transfusions, as well as the possible effect of restrictions on reimbursement for erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) in Medicare patients on the nation's blood supply, will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting later this month.
Masimo Receives FDA Clearance For Noninvasive Total Hemoglobin
Masimo, the inventor of Pulse CO-Oximetry(TM) and Measure-Through Motion-and-Low-Perfusion pulse oximetry, announced it has received FDA clearance for its breakthrough noninvasive and continuous total hemoglobin monitoring technology (SpHb(TM)).
Risks From Occupational Lead Exposure Last A Lifetime, Pitt Study Finds - Combination Of Age And Early Exposure To Lead Significantly Increase Risk
Older workers with past occupational exposure to lead face increased risk for recirculation of lead into their bloodstreams later in life, according to a study by University of Pittsburgh researchers published in the current issue of Archives of Environmental and Occupational Health.
Studies Point To Benefits Of Personalized Chemotherapy Dose Management In Colorectal Cancer
Can a blood test improve treatment outcomes for colorectal cancer patients? Recently published studies indicate that personalized chemotherapy dose management -- measuring drug levels in patients' blood and adjusting them for optimal dosing -- can substantially reduce severe toxicity and improve efficacy in colorectal cancer.
FDA Approves New Formulation Of Coagulation Therapy
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a new formulation of the genetically engineered version of Factor VIIa, a plasma protein essential for the clotting of blood. The new formulation allows the product to be stored at room temperature (up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) for up to two years.
AHRQ Announces Guide To Help Patients On Coumadin R Warfarin Therapy
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality released a new consumer publication, Your Guide to Coumadin /Warfarin Therapy. This 20-page, easy-to-read patient brochure explains what patients should expect and watch out for while undergoing Coumadin /warfarin therapy.
To Encourage Research In Hematology, Promising Medical Trainees Awarded Funding
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) is proud to announce the 2008 recipients of its Trainee Research Awards. This year 40 medical students, undergraduates, and residents will each receive $4, 000 to conduct research on blood and blood-related diseases through this program, which is designed to encourage the pursuit of research and spark an interest in hematology.
Hydrogen Sulphide May Be Involved In Regulating Blood Pressure
Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is a gas most commonly associated with the smell of stink bombs, sewage and rotten eggs, but a team of researchers from the Peninsula Medical School in the South West of England and King's College London have now identified a role for this gas in regulating blood pressure, according to research published in the leading science journal Circulation.
Some Medical Centers Still Stocking Contaminated Heparin, FDA Alert
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found some hospitals and medical centers are still stocking potentially contaminated heparin among their supplies, showing that they failed to respond to recall notices and alerts about the blood thinner made by Baxter International.
Blood Donation More Risky For Teenagers
Compared to older blood donors, sixteen and seventeen year olds aremuch more likely to experience complications related to donation, suchas fainting and bruising. This was published in a study in JAMApublished on May 21, 2008. According to the authors, blood donation centers are continuouslychallenged with finding more safe blood as donors dwindle.