Monthly Archives: March 2025

Online Initiative Enhances Stability and Strengthens Older Adults, Reducing Falls

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have presented promising results from evaluating “Strong Foundations,” a digital fall prevention program targeting older adults. The study, detailed in JMIR-Aging, accentuates the initiative’s effectiveness in bolstering posture, balance, and strength—critical factors in minimizing the risk of falls. Ryan Moran, M.D., M.P.H., an associate clinical professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine, remarked on the study, emphasizing the significant potential of accessible, online exercise programs to improve older adults’ physical functions substantially.

Dr. Moran highlighted the advantages of delivering exercise interventions online, noting that this approach can overcome common barriers such as transportation difficulties and the reluctance to participate in traditional gym settings. He pointed out that this method allows for delivering expert guidance directly to those who need it most safely and conveniently. This is particularly vital as falls remain the leading cause of accidental death and disability related to mobility among older adults, with one in four individuals over the age of 65 experiencing a fall annually.

The geographic disparities in access to exercise facilities are particularly pronounced in rural areas, posing a significant challenge. “Strong Foundations” addresses this by providing a safe, structured exercise regimen that participants can follow from their homes. The program includes a once-weekly session lasting 60 minutes over 12 weeks, combining exercises focusing on postural alignment, balance, and strength training.

A unique feature of the program is its semi-individualized instruction delivered in real-time within a small group setting. This approach ensures that each participant receives attention tailored to correct their exercise form, enhancing the effectiveness of the training. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design and involved 92 participants aged 60 and older, stratified by their fall risk level using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths and Injuries (STEADI) questionnaire. The participants included 55 low-risk and 37 moderate-risk individuals.

The outcomes were impressive, with low- and moderate-risk groups showing significant improvements. For instance, posture enhancements were noted up to 36% in measures such as the Occiput to Wall Distance, which assesses the excessive outward curvature of the spine. Additionally, the participants’ physical strength, gauged by the Chair Stand test, showed marked improvements. Older adults at moderate fall risk experienced the most notable gains, particularly in posture and physical strength.

David Wing, M.S., senior clinical research supervisor at the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, underlined the broader implications of these findings. He stressed the potential of employing technological interfaces to deliver fall prevention programs to older adults effectively. The research team proposes expanding this intervention to more demographically and economically diverse populations. Future studies should explore translating and culturally adapting the program materials to enhance accessibility and impact.

More information: David Wing et al, Building Strong Foundations: Nonrandomized Interventional Study of a Novel, Digitally Delivered Fall Prevention Program for Older Adults, JMIR Aging. DOI: 10.2196/68957

Journal information: JMIR Aging Provided by University of California – San Diego

Offspring of Mothers Who Smoked or Were Obese More Likely to Be Obese in Adulthood

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A study by researchers, including Glenna Nightingale from the University of Edinburgh, UK, reveals that factors outside an individual’s control, such as socioeconomic status and maternal health habits—including smoking and obesity—significantly influence the likelihood of becoming overweight or obese during adolescence and adulthood. The findings, published on March 26, 2025, in the open-access journal PLOS One, contribute to the ongoing debate on the origins and drivers of the global obesity epidemic.

Obesity is universally acknowledged as a significant public health issue, yet there is ongoing disagreement among experts regarding the root causes and contributing factors to the escalating rates of obesity. The discourse often centres on the relative impact of genetic and behavioural factors versus environmental influences like socioeconomic conditions. The recent study delves into these complexities by assessing the influence of various determinants on body weight. These include societal aspects, such as the type of employment and early life conditions, like birth order, mode of delivery, and maternal health behaviours.

The research utilised data from the 1958 National Child Development Study, which tracked over 17,000 individuals born in a single week of March 1958 across England, Scotland, and Wales, offering a longitudinal insight into weight patterns from childhood to middle age. Specifically, the study evaluated the prevalence of overweight, obesity, and severe obesity at ages 16 and 42, alongside weight changes occurring from age 16 to 42—a period that encapsulates the rise in obesity rates within the UK.

The analysis highlighted that children of mothers who were obese or smoked during pregnancy are at an increased risk of being obese or severely obese at the ages examined. These early-life influences were found to exert a long-lasting effect on an individual’s weight trajectory. Notably, the potency of these predictors remained consistent before and after the onset of rising obesity rates in the UK, indicating that individual behavioural factors might not have shifted significantly during this time.

The findings underscore the importance of addressing societal and early-life risk factors in obesity prevention strategies for children and adults. The researchers suggest that the persistence of individual risk factors as obesity rates surge necessitates further investigation into the societal factors that may be driving the current obesity pandemic.

The study’s authors remark on the enduring impact of maternal influences up to the age of 42, noting that these factors were equally influential before the onset of the contemporary obesity crisis. This observation supports the notion, initially posited by Geoffrey Rose, that new research should focus on community and societal-level factors that might have contributed to the current obesity pandemic, as the individual-level risk factors seem to have remained stable over the decades covered by the study. This approach could yield vital insights into the broader, systemic causes of obesity and inform more effective public health interventions.

More information: Glenna Nightingale et al, Sociodemographic and early-life predictors of being overweight or obese in a middle-aged UK population– A retrospective cohort study of the 1958 National Child Development Survey participants, PLOS One. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0320450

Journal information: PLOS One Provided by PLOS

New Study Finds That Incorporating Smoking Cessation Support into Talking Therapies Increases Quit Rates

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A recent study conducted by the University of Bath, supported by Cancer Research UK and released on No Smoking Day 2025, has revealed that incorporating smoking cessation support into NHS Talking Therapies for those with depression and anxiety significantly enhances the likelihood of quitting. This approach addresses the disproportionately high smoking rates among this demographic. The study, led by Dr Gemma Taylor and in collaboration with researchers from various institutions, was published in Addiction. It indicates that integrating smoking cessation into mental health treatments does not detract from therapeutic effectiveness; instead, it provides a comprehensive approach to improving both mental and physical health simultaneously.

The research occurred across four NHS trusts in the Midlands, London, and the South-west of England between 2019 and 2021. It specifically tested the integration of smoking cessation support with NHS-funded Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) aimed at managing depression and anxiety. The study divided 135 participants into two groups: one received 12 sessions of smoking cessation support integrated within their CBT sessions, and the other received standard CBT with post-treatment smoking cessation information. Follow-up assessments were conducted at three and six months to evaluate engagement, satisfaction, changes in smoking habits, and mental health outcomes.

The results were particularly striking at the six-month follow-up, where the group receiving integrated treatment showed a quit rate of 15%, which is significantly higher than the 6% observed in the control group. This outcome is notable when compared to a Cochrane review’s findings, which showed an 8.8% quit rate for standard smoking cessation treatments among those with depression. The results from this study, known as the ESCAPE trial, suggest that the integration of CBT can nearly double these quit rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of combining these treatments.

These findings have substantial implications for public health, particularly mental health care. Researchers believe that this study could lead to broader implementation of smoking cessation supports within mental health services. Therapists involved in the study reported that the integrated approach not only helped patients quit smoking but also improved their overall psychological and physical well-being.

Dr Gemma Taylor emphasized the transformative potential of the study, noting that people with depression and anxiety are twice as likely to smoke, and quitting can significantly enhance both their physical and mental health. She pointed out that this integrated approach is practical and effective, offering a significant step forward in improving patient outcomes. Meanwhile, Hazel Cheeseman, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), criticized the current NHS approach that treats smoking and mental health issues separately. She advocated for a combined treatment protocol, highlighting the long-term benefits to patients and the healthcare system. She also called for further studies to validate these findings and expand the services.

In conclusion, this study not only provides a new, effective method to address high smoking rates among those with depression and anxiety but also suggests a model that could potentially benefit a significant portion of those using NHS therapy services. This approach addresses a crucial public health issue, aiming to reduce the burden of smoking-related diseases while enhancing mental health care outcomes.

More information: Gemma Taylor et al, intEgrating Smoking Cessation treatment As part of usual Psychological care for dEpression and anxiety (ESCAPE): A randomised and controlled, multi-centre, acceptability and feasibility trial with nested qualitative methods, Addiction. DOI: 10.1111/add.16718

Journal information: Addiction Provided by University of Bath

The Craft of Wellness: Collective Endeavours Found to Alleviate Depression and Anxiety Among the Elderly

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A recent study led by researchers from Queen Mary University of London has revealed that participating in group arts activities such as painting, music, or dance can significantly alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety among older adults. Published in Nature Mental Health, this research underscores the potential benefits of engaging in shared creative pursuits. Traditionally, treatment for depression and anxiety in older adults has leaned heavily on medications and various forms of therapy, which may not always be suitable due to potential side effects, high costs, or a reluctance to discuss mental health issues openly. This study proposes a novel and accessible alternative in the form of artistic group activities, highlighting their simplicity and profound impact on mental well-being.

The project was spearheaded by Elizabeth Quinn, a PhD candidate in Psychology at Queen Mary University of London, involving a comprehensive meta-analysis of 39 studies across 21 countries. This extensive research included over 3,360 participants evaluated for depression and 949 for anxiety. The results were striking, showing that group arts interventions effectively reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety with effect sizes comparable to those of traditional treatments, such as antidepressants or therapy. The research further indicated that older adults in care facilities experienced more significant improvements in depression symptoms compared to those living in the community, suggesting that these interventions could be particularly beneficial for the most vulnerable segments of society.

The consistency of the benefits across different art forms—whether painting, dancing, or making music—and among diverse populations points to these activities’ universal appeal and effectiveness. Dr. Janelle Jones, the study’s senior author, emphasized that the improvements in mental health could be attributed to the synergistic effects of group dynamics and the creative process itself. This combination appears to provide unique therapeutic resources that are particularly effective in enhancing mental health among older adults.

The study’s findings have broad implications for mental health care, particularly for older adults. In the UK, group arts interventions are part of the social prescribing initiative, which aims to link patients with community activities to improve their well-being. The evidence provided by this study solidifies the case for these interventions, encouraging healthcare providers and policymakers to consider them a serious option for mental health care.

Dr Jones highlighted the accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and enjoyment of art interventions, noting their potential to provide a comprehensive approach to mental health challenges that doesn’t rely solely on medication or conventional therapy. This is especially crucial for older adults struggling to access typical treatment options. The study’s universal findings suggest that creating art in a group setting, with its inherent social connections and opportunities for creative expression, is key to its effectiveness.

The research team hopes these findings will prompt healthcare providers to integrate arts-based group interventions into mental healthcare plans for older adults. They also call for further research to explore the long-term benefits of these interventions and their applicability to other demographic groups and settings. This could lead to a broader implementation of creative therapies in mental health care, potentially transforming treatment paradigms for older adults across the globe.

More information: Elizabeth Quinn et al, Group arts interventions for depression and anxiety among older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis, Nature Mental Health. DOI: 10.1038/s44220-024-00368-1

Journal information: Nature Mental Health Provided by Queen Mary University of London

Environmental Toxins Associated with Accelerated Ageing and Health Hazards in American Adults

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A newly published research paper in Aging (Aging-US) on February 11, 2025, Volume 17, Issue 2, is titled “Exposome-wide association study of environmental chemical exposures and epigenetic ageing in the national health and nutrition examination survey.” The study’s lead author, Dennis Khodasevich, and corresponding author, Andres Cardenas, both affiliated with Stanford University, collaborated with peers from various U.S. institutions to investigate the impact of environmental chemical exposure on ageing. Their research utilised data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and identified significant connections between exposure to harmful chemicals such as cadmium, lead, and cotinine and accelerated biological ageing. This acceleration is pivotal as it heightens the risk of developing age-related diseases.

Their analysis encompassed data from 2,346 U.S. adults aged between 50 and 84, all participants in a national health survey. The research involved testing participants’ blood and urine samples for 64 different chemicals, including metals, pesticides, and industrial pollutants. The primary aim was to determine how these chemical exposures influence various epigenetic ageing markers. These markers, known as biological clocks, gauge an individual’s rate of ageing at the DNA level.

Dennis Khodasevich elaborated on their methodology: “We harnessed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2000 and 2001-2002 cycles to examine exposome-wide associations between environmental exposures and epigenetic ageing.” The results showed that exposure to cadmium, prevalently found in cigarette smoke and certain foods, was strongly linked to signs of accelerated ageing in individuals with elevated blood levels of the metal. Similarly, cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine and an indicator of tobacco exposure, and lead, commonly found in old paints and contaminated water, were also associated with quicker ageing.

Interestingly, the research also uncovered that certain pollutants, such as PCB118 (polychlorinated biphenyl) and HpCDD (dioxin), appeared to be linked to slower biological ageing. The implications of these findings are ambiguous, as slower ageing might not necessarily confer benefits, considering past studies have associated it with potential health risks.

This study stands out due to its extensive scope, contrasting with earlier studies that focused narrowly on a few chemicals and smaller participant groups. The findings are significant, suggesting that everyday exposure to toxic substances can expedite cellular ageing, thereby escalating the risk of age-related conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and cognitive decline.

In conclusion, the insights from this research underscore the urgent need for robust environmental health policies that aim to reduce exposure to harmful substances like cadmium and lead, commonly found in cigarettes, polluted air, and contaminated food sources. Such policies could decelerate biological ageing and enhance long-term health, highlighting the critical link between environmental quality and public health. This study deepens our understanding of how pollutants impact ageing and reinforces the importance of safeguarding environmental quality to prevent premature ageing and associated chronic diseases.

More information: Dennis Khodasevich et al, Exposome-wide association study of environmental chemical exposures and epigenetic aging in the national health and nutrition examination survey, Aging-US. DOI: 10.18632/aging.206201

Journal information: Aging-US Provided by Impact Journals LLC

Daytime Sleepiness in the Elderly? It May Double the Risk of Dementia

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A recent study published on March 19, 2025, in Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, presents findings highlighting a significant correlation between increasing daytime sleepiness over five years and a doubled risk of developing dementia among women in their 80s. This study, while insightful, clarifies that it does not establish daytime sleepiness as a causative factor for dementia but instead underscores a notable association between the two conditions.

Dr. Yue Leng, PhD, from the University of California, San Francisco, and the study’s principal investigator, underscores the critical role that sleep plays in cognitive health. He notes that adequate sleep is essential for the brain’s rest and rejuvenation, supporting clear thinking and effective memory retention. Despite these findings, Dr. Leng points out that the dynamics between changes in sleep patterns and cognitive functions, particularly their impact on dementia risk in later years, remain poorly understood. The study suggests that disturbances in sleep may be intricately linked with cognitive ageing and could potentially act as early markers for dementia risk among older women.

Throughout the study, researchers monitored 733 women, averaging 83 years old, none of whom had mild cognitive impairment or dementia at the beginning. Over the following five years, the health outcomes were significant: 164 women developed mild cognitive impairment, and 93 were diagnosed with dementia, translating to 22% and 13% of the study population, respectively.

The methodology involved participants wearing wrist devices to track their sleep and circadian rhythms for three days at the start and the end of the study period. The researchers examined nighttime sleep quality and duration changes, daytime napping habits, and circadian rhythm patterns. By the end of the study, over half the participants (56%) exhibited significant changes in their sleep patterns.

These participants were categorized into three groups based on their sleep changes: those whose sleep remained stable or slightly improved made up 44%; those with declining nighttime sleep accounted for 35%; and those experiencing increased sleepiness formed 21%. Notably, the declining nighttime group showed reduced sleep quality and duration, increased daytime napping, and worsening circadian rhythms. In contrast, the group with increased sleepiness experienced improved daytime and nighttime sleep quality and duration, though their circadian rhythms also deteriorated.

Further analysis showed distinct differences in dementia risk across these groups. In the stable sleep group, only 8% developed dementia; this rose to 15% in the declining nighttime sleep group and to 19% in the increasing sleepiness group. After adjusting for various factors such as age, education, race, and health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, the researchers found that those in the increasing sleepiness group faced double the risk of developing dementia compared to those in the stable sleep group. No significant link was found in the declining nighttime sleep group. Dr Leng emphasized the rapid changes observed in sleep patterns over just five years and highlighted the need for comprehensive future studies that examine all aspects of sleep to understand its connection to dementia risk better. However, a limitation of the study is its predominantly white cohort, suggesting the findings may not be generalizable across more diverse populations. This limitation underscores the necessity for further research involving a broader demographic to ascertain the full implications of sleep patterns on dementia risk.

More information: Yue Leng et al, Five-Year Changes in 24-Hour Sleep-Wake Activity and Dementia Risk in Oldest Old Women, Neurology. DOI: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000213403

Journal information: Neurology Provided by American Academy of Neurology

Communal Dining Associated with Enhanced Wellbeing

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Research led by an academic from University College London (UCL) for the World Happiness Report has uncovered that individuals who partake in shared mealtimes are likelier to experience higher life satisfaction and well-being. The third chapter of the report, titled “Sharing Meals with Others”, involved collaboration between researchers from UCL, the University of Oxford, Harvard University, and Gallup. They investigated meal sharing as a significant indicator of self-reported well-being, comparing its impact on income and employment status. The research demonstrates that this correlation spans all demographics, including age, gender, nationality, culture, and region.

The findings highlighted that nations with a culture of frequent shared mealtimes generally report greater life satisfaction. For example, individuals who consistently partake in shared lunches and dinners scored, on average, an additional point on a life evaluation scale ranging from 0 (worst possible life) to 10 (best possible life). This increase is considerable, equating the impact of gaining an extra point in life satisfaction to propelling the UK to the second happiest country globally, trailing only behind Denmark.

The study also revealed that meal-sharing frequency is a robust indicator of life satisfaction and positive emotions, comparable to the significance of one’s income bracket. Understanding a person’s meal-sharing habits can provide deeper insights into their well-being than simply knowing their employment status.

Dr Alberto Prati, a co-author from UCL’s Arts & Humanities faculty, remarked on the novelty and significance of this global analysis of meal-sharing data. He noted the strong link between social connections, facilitated through shared meals, and positive evaluations of life and emotions. Utilising data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveyed over 150,000 individuals about their well-being and meal-sharing habits with acquaintances over the past week, the study encompassed responses from 142 countries during 2022 and 2023.

It found that Latin America and the Caribbean lead in meal-sharing frequency, with individuals sharing meals nearly two-thirds of the time. Western Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand followed this. In contrast, South Asia and East Asia reported lower frequencies of meal sharing.

Focusing on the United States, the researchers used the American Time Use Survey to examine trends in meal sharing and solitary dining from 2003 to 2023. The findings suggest a decline in shared meals, particularly among the youth, which correlates with broader social changes and a decrease in social capital, or the community cohesion and connections that underpin a functional society. Interestingly, the report also noted an increase in Americans dining alone, a trend accentuated by the pandemic’s onset in early 2020, which enforced changes in social behaviours. Notably, older adults and increasingly younger individuals under 35 are opting to eat alone more frequently.

Dr Prati emphasised the practical implications of these findings for policy-making, highlighting the potential of meal-sharing frequency as a valuable yet underexplored metric for comparative social research. This study reinforces the importance of social interactions through shared meals and points to broader social trends and their implications for public policy and societal wellbeing.

More information: Alberto Prati et al, Sharing meals with others. How meal sharing supports happiness and social connections, World Happiness Report. DOI: 10.18724/whr-g119-bv60

Journal information: World Happiness Report Provided by University College London

Feeling Overwhelmed? How Stress Could Elevate Your Stroke Risk

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A recent study published in Neurology®, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology, on March 5, 2025, suggests that individuals living with chronic stress, particularly younger women, may face a heightened risk of experiencing a stroke. However, the study establishes only an association rather than causation. This research mainly focused on younger adults and revealed a noteworthy association between stress and stroke in women, with no discernible cause. At the same time, no such link was observed in male participants.

Nicolas Martinez-Majander, MD, PhD, from the Helsinki University Hospital in Finland, highlighted that young individuals frequently face stress due to various pressures related to their careers, such as extensive working hours, job insecurity, and financial concerns. Previous studies have consistently indicated that chronic stress can adversely impact both physical and mental health. The findings of this latest study suggest that such stress could be a contributing factor to stroke occurrences in younger women.

The methodology of the study involved examining 426 individuals aged between 18 and 49 who had suffered an ischemic stroke of unknown origin. These participants were paired with an equal number of individuals who had not experienced a stroke, matching them by age and gender. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blockage impedes the blood flow to a part of the brain, potentially resulting in severe outcomes such as physical weakness, speech difficulties, vision issues, or even death.

Participants had to complete a detailed questionnaire to measure stress levels over the month preceding the survey. For those who had suffered a stroke, the stress level was recorded for the month before the stroke occurred. The questionnaire consisted of 10 queries aimed at assessing their ability to manage crucial aspects of their lives, with responses ranging from zero (“never”) to four (“very often”). The total stress score was then categorised into three levels: low stress (0 to 13), moderate stress (14 to 26), and high stress (27 to 40). The results showed that stroke sufferers generally reported higher stress levels, with an average score of 13, compared to an average score of 10 in those without a stroke.

The analysis revealed that stroke patients were more likely to report moderate to high-stress levels, with 46% of stroke patients falling into these categories, as opposed to 33% of those without a stroke. After accounting for various factors that could influence stroke risk, such as educational attainment, alcohol consumption, and blood pressure, it was found that moderate stress in female participants was associated with a 78% increase in stroke risk, and high stress correlated with a 6% increase. No similar correlation was found in male participants.

Martinez-Majander stressed the need for further research to delve into the reasons why stressed women, but not men, are more susceptible to strokes and to investigate why moderate stress appears to be more significantly associated with stroke risk in women than high stress. Understanding the mechanisms by which stress influences stroke risk could pave the way for more effective prevention strategies.
However, the study’s reliability is potentially compromised by the possibility that individuals experiencing higher levels of stress might have been less inclined to participate, which could have skewed the results. More comprehensive studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore the underlying reasons for these gender differences in stress-related stroke risk.

More information: Nicolas Martinez-Majander et al, Association Between Self-Perceived Stress and Cryptogenic Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults
A Case-Control Study, Neurology. DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03123-x

Journal information: Neurology Provided by American Academy of Neurology

Deciphering the Brain’s Methods for Differentiating Pain from Itch

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A research initiative led by KAANG Bong-Kiun, director of the Center for Cognition and Sociality within the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), in collaboration with KO Hyoung-Gon, professor at Kyung Hee University College of Dentistry, has made significant advancements in understanding the neural mechanisms that enable the brain to differentiate between pain and itch sensations within the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). This study illuminates the specific neural pathways that handle these distinct sensory experiences, marking a significant milestone in neurological research.

Pain and itch, though unpleasant sensations, elicit different responses; pain typically causes withdrawal, while itch leads to scratching. Previously, the scientific community had limited understanding of how the brain processed these sensations distinctly despite their shared neural pathways. These pathways extend from the spinal cord through the thalamus and brainstem, ultimately reaching the ACC. This brain region involves various functions, from basic sensory processing to complex cognitive behaviours. However, the intricacies of how specific neurons within the ACC manage these diverse functions have not been well understood until now. This research provides a clearer picture of how pain and itch information are processed within these neural circuits.

The study involved a detailed analysis of neuronal response patterns in the ACC when exposed to pain and itch stimuli. It revealed two distinct types of neurons: non-selective neurons, which react to both types of stimuli, and stimulus-specific neurons, which respond exclusively to either pain or itch. This categorization is crucial as it indicates that distinct neuronal populations within the ACC manage different sensory experiences, a revelation that deepens our understanding of sensory processing.

The researchers employed the dual-eGRASP technique, a sophisticated synaptic analysis method that Kaang’s team developed to explore these phenomena further. This technique revealed that stimulus-specific neurons in the ACC receive unique synaptic inputs from the mediodorsal thalamus (MD). This discovery supports that pain and itch are processed separately within the brain’s architecture, each through its dedicated neural circuitry.

To validate the functional importance of these neurons, the research team used chemogenetic techniques to deactivate the neurons specific to pain and itch selectively. Suppressing the activity of pain-specific neurons reduced pain perception without affecting itch perception; similarly, deactivating itch-specific neurons diminished itch sensations without altering pain perception. These experiments underscore these neurons’ critical role in shaping our sensory experiences of pain and itch.

This study demonstrates the predetermined roles of ACC neurons in processing sensory information. It establishes that pain- and itch-specific neurons are synaptically connected to corresponding neurons in the MD, thus forming independent neural circuits for each sensation. These findings challenge assumptions about overlapping neural pathways and highlight distinct pathways for processing pain and itch. As the research team continues to explore these neural mechanisms, their work promises to enhance our understanding of sensory processing and potentially lead to more targeted treatments for pain and itch in clinical settings.

More information: Hyoung-Gon Ko et al, Processing of pain and itch information by modality-specific neurons within the anterior cingulate cortex in mice, Nature Communications. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57041-z

Journal information: Nature Communications Provided by Institute for Basic Science

Study Reveals One-Third of Elderly Canadians Face Nutritional Challenges

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A recent study has revealed that one-third of Canadian adults aged 55 or older are at risk of poor nutrition, potentially leading to an increase in hospital stays, more frequent emergency room visits, and additional consultations with physicians due to potential infections. This investigation, conducted by researchers at the University of Waterloo, assessed data involving over 22,000 adults residing in communities aged 55 and above, sourced from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. The initial assessments were followed by a monitoring period of up to three years to observe participants’ usage of health services during the previous year.

To determine the nutritional risk of individuals, the research team employed the SCREEN-8 tool, short for Seniors in the Community Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition. Findings from the study indicated that participants who scored higher on the SCREEN-8 during the initial screening—suggesting better nutritional status—were significantly less likely to report overnight hospital stays, visit emergency rooms, or consult a doctor for infections during the three-year follow-up.

Dr. Heather Keller, a professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences and the Schlegel Research Chair in Nutrition and Aging, commented on the significance of these findings. She explained that although the results might seem intuitive, they underscore the importance of a simple, cost-effective tool that could significantly enhance healthcare outcomes and reduce associated costs. Dr. Keller advocates integrating SCREEN-8 into routine primary care practice, noting that it is also suitable for self-administration at home.

The issue of nutritional risk among older adults, particularly those living in community settings, is critical as it often precedes malnutrition. The SCREEN-8 questionnaire covers various topics, including changes in weight, appetite, challenges related to eating (such as choking or difficulty swallowing), meal preparation habits, and consuming fruits, vegetables, and fluids. These areas are vital for maintaining good health and preventing further complications.

The demographic profile of the study sample was balanced in terms of gender, with an average participant age of around 66 years. Most participants lived with a partner, and two-thirds held post-secondary degrees. However, the study acknowledged a limitation in its demographic scope, as the sample predominantly consisted of highly educated, white individuals, thus not fully representing the broader Canadian population. Dr. Keller emphasized the utility of identifying individuals at nutritional risk, as it allows for modifying behaviours to prevent adverse health outcomes. She also highlighted the need for further research to explore how healthcare providers can effectively triage and offer education, programming, and services to mitigate high-risk cases.

More information: Heather Keller et al, Baseline nutrition risk as measured by SCREEN-8 predicts self-reported 12-month healthcare service use of older adults 3 years later, Applied Physiology Nutrition and Metabolism. DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2024-0288

Journal information: Applied Physiology Nutrition and Metabolism Provided by University of Waterloo

Significant Traumatic Stress Detected in Caregivers of Adult Cancer Patients

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Millions of family members and friends annually undertake the emotionally taxing role of caregivers for loved ones undergoing cancer treatment. A recent scoping review published in the Archives of Geriatrics and Gerontology Plus sheds light on the considerable mental health impacts these caregivers face. The findings indicate that a significant percentage, more than 15%, of these caregivers have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Elizaveta Klekovkina, the study’s lead author and a social worker at the Department of Supportive Care at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, points out that caregivers are often neglected in psychosocial oncology care, leaving many without the necessary support to cope with their challenges.

The study meticulously analysed existing literature and identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of PTSD among caregivers. These include pre-existing mental health conditions, inadequate social support, and the high burden of caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, patient-related factors like the severity of the disease, symptom burden, and perceived likelihood of death also contribute significantly to caregiver distress. Highlighting these risk factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions that can prevent and alleviate traumatic stress in caregivers, according to Klekovkina and co-author Maya Stern, both of whom are recent graduates from the Master of Social Work program at the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work.

One of the more alarming findings of the review is that caregivers of patients with particularly severe conditions, such as head and neck cancer or acute leukemia, experience distress at much higher rates, with up to 37% meeting the criteria for PTSD. The most commonly reported symptoms among these caregivers were intrusive thoughts and hypervigilance. Unlike other trauma types where avoidance is a typical response, caregivers cannot simply step away, as they remain deeply involved in the day-to-day care of their loved ones.

The scope of the review included 23 studies focused on the relationship between traumatic stress and caregivers of adult cancer patients. However, the review also pointed out significant limitations in the existing research, notably that most studies are cross-sectional with small sample sizes and lack racial and gender diversity. Carmine Malfitano, co-author and Director of research and education at the Centre for Psychology and Emotional Health, emphasised the surprising dearth of research on traumatic stress among caregivers, underscoring the urgent need for more robust studies to fill this gap in the literature and to develop proactive, evidence-based interventions that better integrate caregiver support in oncology care.

The researchers advocate for more proactive screening measures to identify and support caregivers at risk of PTSD. Esme Fuller-Thomson, the study’s senior author and Director of the Institute for Life Course & Aging at the University of Toronto, warns of the long-term impacts on the mental and physical health of caregivers if their traumatic stress is not addressed. She stresses the importance of ensuring caregivers receive early support, especially at critical moments such as diagnosis, recurrence, or during treatment transitions, to mitigate the high prevalence of PTSD and improve the overall support systems for caregivers of adult cancer patients.

More information: Elizaveta Klekovkina et al, Traumatic stress in caregivers of adult patients with cancer: A scoping review, Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus. DOI: 10.1016/j.aggp.2025.100141

Journal information: Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus Provided by University of Toronto

Ten Percent of Elderly South Asian Immigrants in Canada Suffer from Hypothyroidism

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A recent study featured in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus revealed that 10% of South Asian immigrants over the age of 45 residing in Canada are affected by hypothyroidism. This statistic was determined after adjusting for various sociodemographic factors and health behaviours, showing that immigrants from South Asia are 77% more likely to develop hypothyroidism compared to their Canadian-born peers. Esme Fuller-Thomson, the study’s senior author and a Professor at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, as well as the Director of the Institute of Life Course and Aging at the University of Toronto, highlighted the significance of this finding. She noted that this is likely the first study to demonstrate such a marked increase in hypothyroidism risk among South Asian immigrants, stressing the importance of more proactive thyroid screening in this population.

The consequences of untreated hypothyroidism are severe, ranging from anemia and hypertension to high cholesterol and neurological issues. ZhiDi Deng, the study’s lead author and a medical student at the University of Alberta, suggested an intriguing area for future research. He pointed out that the disproportionately high rates of hypothyroidism among South Asian immigrants might be linked to endemic iodine deficiency in their countries of origin—a well-known cause of the condition. Unfortunately, the survey used in the study did not include data on participants’ iodine levels, which prevented further exploration of this hypothesis.

Dietary habits were also identified as significant factors associated with hypothyroidism. Karen M. Davison, a nutritional epidemiologist and co-author of the study, discussed the dietary connections uncovered by the research. She observed that individuals with lower fat intake or higher consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and pulses were significantly less likely to suffer from hypothyroidism. This suggests a potential avenue for non-pharmacological, nutrition-based interventions in managing or preventing the disease, though more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Age is another critical factor influencing the likelihood of developing hypothyroidism. Andie MacNeil, a PhD student at the University of Toronto and co-author, noted that individuals over 75 had double the prevalence of the condition compared to those aged between 45 and 55. She attributed this trend to autoimmune thyroiditis, a common cause of hypothyroidism among older adults, which may drive this increased prevalence.

The data for this study was sourced from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, which analyzed a sample of 26,036 Canadians between the ages of 45 and 85, of whom 1,953 individuals had hypothyroidism. The non-specific symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression, make it difficult to diagnose without specific blood tests, especially in older adults. This highlights the need for heightened awareness and screening for thyroid conditions to prevent the adverse health effects associated with this disorder.

Esme Fuller-Thomson expressed optimism that these findings would promote increased screening for thyroid conditions among older adults, particularly those of South Asian descent. This proactive approach could help mitigate the severe health outcomes that arise from untreated hypothyroidism. The research sheds light on previously unrecognized risk factors and opens avenues for future studies to explore these risks further and potentially mitigate them.

More information: ZhiDi Deng et al, The relationship between immigrant status, cultural/racial background, and hypothyroidism among middle-aged and older Canadians: An analysis of Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging data, Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus. DOI: 10.1016/j.aggp.2025.100129

Journal information: Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus Provided by University of Toronto