Health and Me

Ishita Roy

New Parkinson's Treatment Is Like A Pacemaker To The Brain

In a major leap for Parkinson’s disease treatment, a new form of brain implant is transforming the way patients experience relief from symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. Often likened to a “pacemaker for the brain,” this breakthrough, known as adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS), is being hailed as a personalized, real-time therapy that adjusts to the brain's needs moment by moment.

<h2>From Reluctance to Relief: One Patient’s Journey</h2>

As the Scientific American reports, Keith Krehbiel had lived with Parkinson’s disease for nearly 25 years before agreeing to undergo a surgery he had long avoided. In 2020, as his symptoms worsened, he reluctantly said yes to a deep brain stimulation (DBS) implant, unaware he’d soon be part of a historic medical trial.

Just as he was preparing for surgery, neurologist Helen Bronte-Stewart of Stanford University received approval to launch a new trial testing an upgraded form of DBS. She offered Krehbiel the chance to be the first participant. His response: “Boy, do I!”

Five years on, the clinical trial, known as ADAPT-PD, involving 68 participants is now under review for publication. But the initial results have already been powerful enough to earn regulatory approval in both the U.S. and Europe.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/rakesh-roshan-undergoes-angioplasty-shares-health-update-and-asks-people-over-40-to-get-regular-ct-scan-article-152328635" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Rakesh Roshan Undergoes Angioplasty, Shares Health Update And Asks People Over 40 To Get Regular CT Scan</a>

<h2>What Makes Adaptive DBS Different?</h2>

As per the American <span>Parkinson Disease</span> Association (APDA), traditional DBS works by sending electrical impulses to parts of the brain that control movement, helping correct abnormal brain activity. But until now, it operated on fixed settings, adjusted manually by doctors based on patient feedback during clinic visits. That’s where adaptive DBS is changing the game.

This next-generation implant not only stimulates the brain but also listens to it. Using Medtronic’s BrainSense™ technology, the system continuously reads brain signals called local field potentials (LFPs), particularly in the beta-band frequency range, which has been linked to motor symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. 

When the system detects brainwave patterns that suggest tremor, stiffness, or slowness, it automatically tweaks the stimulation levels in real-time.

“It’s like a smart pacemaker for the brain,” Bronte-Stewart explained. The goal is simple but revolutionary: deliver just the right amount of stimulation when it’s needed most, and ease off when it’s not.

<h2>A New Era for Parkinson’s Care</h2>

The implications of this adaptive technology are wide-reaching. APDA notes, over one million people in the U.S. and 1.2 million in Europe live with Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological disorder that often grows resistant to medications over time. While traditional DBS has helped around 200,000 patients worldwide, only 40,000 devices implanted since 2020 are equipped with the adaptive capability, and many of them haven’t even activated the feature yet.

With the ADAPT-PD trial results clearing regulatory hurdles, that’s poised to change. Krehbiel’s own experience is one reason why: after his surgery, his symptoms significantly improved, and his quality of life followed suit.

The benefits of adaptive DBS extend beyond Parkinson’s. Neurologists believe this “closed-loop” approach could also be effective for other movement disorders like Tourette’s syndrome, and even psychiatric conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression — though more trials are needed.

Experts believe the evolution of adaptive DBS is just beginning. Next on the horizon is the integration of artificial intelligence. By learning individual brain patterns, AI could help predict when symptoms are about to worsen, and adjust stimulation preemptively. 

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In a major leap for Parkinson’s disease treatment, a new form of brain implant is transforming the way patients experience relief from symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. Often likened to a “pacemaker for the brain,” this breakthrough, known as adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS), is being hailed as a personalized, real-time therapy that adjusts to the brain's needs moment by moment.From Reluctance to Relief: One Patient’s JourneyAs the Scientific American reports, Keith Krehbiel had lived with Parkinson’s disease for nearly 25 years before agreeing to undergo a surgery he had long avoided. In 2020, as his symptoms worsened, he reluctantly said yes to a deep brain stimulation (DBS) implant, unaware he’d soon be part of a historic medical trial.Just as he was preparing for surgery, neurologist Helen Bronte-Stewart of Stanford University received approval to launch a new trial testing an upgraded form of DBS. She offered Krehbiel the chance to be the first participant. His response: “Boy, do I!”Five years on, the clinical trial, known as ADAPT-PD, involving 68 participants is now under review for publication. But the initial results have already been powerful enough to earn regulatory approval in both the U.S. and Europe.Also Read: Rakesh Roshan Undergoes Angioplasty, Shares Health Update And Asks People Over 40 To Get Regular CT ScanWhat Makes Adaptive DBS Different?As per the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), traditional DBS works by sending electrical impulses to parts of the brain that control movement, helping correct abnormal brain activity. But until now, it operated on fixed settings, adjusted manually by doctors based on patient feedback during clinic visits. That’s where adaptive DBS is changing the game.This next-generation implant not only stimulates the brain but also listens to it. Using Medtronic’s BrainSense™ technology, the system continuously reads brain signals called local field potentials (LFPs), particularly in the beta-band frequency range, which has been linked to motor symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. When the system detects brainwave patterns that suggest tremor, stiffness, or slowness, it automatically tweaks the stimulation levels in real-time.“It’s like a smart pacemaker for the brain,” Bronte-Stewart explained. The goal is simple but revolutionary: deliver just the right amount of stimulation when it’s needed most, and ease off when it’s not.A New Era for Parkinson’s CareThe implications of this adaptive technology are wide-reaching. APDA notes, over one million people in the U.S. and 1.2 million in Europe live with Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological disorder that often grows resistant to medications over time. While traditional DBS has helped around 200,000 patients worldwide, only 40,000 devices implanted since 2020 are equipped with the adaptive capability, and many of them haven’t even activated the feature yet.With the ADAPT-PD trial results clearing regulatory hurdles, that’s poised to change. Krehbiel’s own experience is one reason why: after his surgery, his symptoms significantly improved, and his quality of life followed suit.The benefits of adaptive DBS extend beyond Parkinson’s. Neurologists believe this “closed-loop” approach could also be effective for other movement disorders like Tourette’s syndrome, and even psychiatric conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression — though more trials are needed.Experts believe the evolution of adaptive DBS is just beginning. Next on the horizon is the integration of artificial intelligence. By learning individual brain patterns, AI could help predict when symptoms are about to worsen, and adjust stimulation preemptively. 

new parkinson's treatment is like a pacemaker to the brain

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The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is launching a renewed and urgent call to vaccinate hundreds of thousands of young people against the human papillomavirus (<span>HPV</span>)—a virus linked to cervical and multiple other cancers. Despite robust efforts in schools, data from the last three years reveals that more than 418,000 children in the UK left school without receiving the HPV vaccine, prompting a national outreach initiative targeting those now aged 16 to 25.

This large-scale effort is not just about catching up; it’s part of a far-reaching goal- eliminating <span>cervical cancer</span> in the UK by 2040. With HPV responsible for 99.7% of cervical cancer cases and also linked to cancers of the throat, anus, penis, vagina, and mouth, the campaign reflects a bold public health strategy rooted in decades of scientific progress.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/new-parkinsons-treatment-is-like-a-pacemaker-to-the-brain-article-152328726" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">New Parkinson's Treatment Is Like A Pacemaker To The Brain</a>

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally. By age 45, about 80% of people—both men and women—will have contracted some form of HPV. While most of these infections are harmless and cleared naturally by the immune system, high-risk strains can linger and mutate healthy cells, leading to cancer.

In the cervix, HPV causes a gradual change in skin cells—a process called cervical dysplasia. This is where the transformation zone (the meeting point of squamous and glandular cells in the cervix) becomes the site of potential cancerous growth. If left unchecked, these abnormal cells can progress from CIN1 (mild dysplasia) to CIN2 or CIN3 (moderate to severe), and eventually become malignant.

What makes HPV particularly dangerous is its ability to evade apoptosis, the normal process where damaged cells self-destruct. Instead, it integrates its own genetic material into cervical cells, making them immortal and prone to uncontrollable growth.

In 2022 alone, 130,000 women across the European Economic Area (EEA)—which includes the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway—were newly diagnosed with cervical cancer, and 14,000 died. Even more alarming are the HPV-related head and neck cancers, which impacted 86,000 people in the region, 74% of them men, causing about 26,000 deaths.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines cervical cancer elimination as fewer than four cases per 100,000 women. Current rates in the EEA sit at 56 per 100,000. Europe may reach the WHO's goal by 2050—but only if vaccination and screening efforts scale up dramatically.

The NHS is using every tool available to close this immunization gap. GP practices across England are now contacting unvaccinated individuals aged 16–25 through letters, emails, texts, and even the NHS App. The message is clear: one dose can save your life.

According to Dr. Amanda Doyle, NHS National Director of Primary Care and Community Services, "Too many lives are lost to cervical cancer… this vaccine is hugely important—not just for girls and women, but for boys and men too."

Previously, the vaccine required two doses, but as of 2023, a single dose is now recommended for most. This simplifies logistics and removes a barrier for many. National data from the 2023/24 academic year reveals progress, but also stark disparities. Among Year 10 students (ages 14–15):

<ul><li>76.7% of girls and 71.2% of boys were vaccinated.</li><li>In Year 8 (ages 12–13), uptake was slightly lower: 72.9% of girls, 67.7% of boys.</li></ul>

Yet coverage varies dramatically by region:

<ul><li>In London, Year 10 uptake for girls is just 64.9%, and only 58.9% for boys.</li><li>In contrast, the South East boasts 82.7% (girls) and 77.3% (boys).</li><li>At a hyperlocal level, places like Lambeth in London saw just 38.7% of girls vaccinated, compared to 97.6% in Northumberland.</li><li>For boys, rates ranged from 28.2% (Lambeth) to 92.2% (West Berkshire).</li></ul>

This patchwork points to deep-rooted health inequalities—a challenge public health officials must address to ensure the vaccine’s promise reaches all communities.

<h2>Why It Is Important To Reinforce the Safety and Efficacy of the New Vaccine?</h2>

Since 2021, the UK has been administering an updated HPV vaccine that research shows is significantly more effective than earlier versions. Compared to the previous vaccine, the current one is expected to reduce women’s cancer cases by 16% and lower HPV-related deaths by 9%. What makes this advancement even more compelling is real-world data from England, which indicates the vaccine prevents up to 90% of cervical cancer cases. In practical terms, this means that for individuals who receive the vaccine before being exposed to the virus, the risk of developing cervical cancer is not just lowered—it’s almost entirely eliminated.

While cervical cancer remains the primary concern, the HPV vaccine offers protection against a wider range of serious health issues, including genital warts, anal cancer, penile cancer, and head and neck cancers—particularly those affecting the mouth and throat. This broader protection underscores the importance of vaccinating not just girls and women, but also boys and men. They face direct risks and also play a significant role in transmitting the virus to sexual partners, potentially putting others at risk for HPV-related cancers.

To accelerate progress, the NHS has outlined a clear roadmap in its 10-Year Health Plan. Key goals include achieving 90% HPV vaccine coverage among girls by 2040 and increasing participation in cervical screening programs. In a move to streamline access and engagement, the NHS recently rolled out a ‘ping and book’ system through its App, allowing eligible individuals to receive digital invitations and reminders for cervical screening appointments. Public health minister Ashley Dalton called the HPV vaccine “our most powerful tool” in eliminating cervical cancer but acknowledged that “there is still a long way to go” in reaching full coverage and equity.

And that’s the real message here: the science is ready. The infrastructure exists. What’s missing is participation—from parents, from young adults, and from the health systems that must ensure equitable access.

The effort to eliminate cervical cancer is no longer a medical fantasy—it’s a public health reality within reach. But it will take collective action, clear messaging, and targeted strategies to overcome gaps in access and awareness.

If you're between 16 and 25 in England and missed the jab in school, this is your moment. If you're a parent, ask your child’s GP. If you're a policymaker, look at your region’s numbers because the truth is simple: a single vaccine dose today could save a life tomorrow.

cervical cancer

hpv vaccine uk

cervical cancer prevention

hpv related cancers

nhs hpv campaign

hpv vaccine uptake

hpv jab for teens

cancer vaccine program

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is launching a renewed and urgent call to vaccinate hundreds of thousands of young people against the human papillomavirus (HPV)—a virus linked to cervical and multiple other cancers. Despite robust efforts in schools, data from the last three years reveals that more than 418,000 children in the UK left school without receiving the HPV vaccine, prompting a national outreach initiative targeting those now aged 16 to 25.This large-scale effort is not just about catching up; it’s part of a far-reaching goal- eliminating cervical cancer in the UK by 2040. With HPV responsible for 99.7% of cervical cancer cases and also linked to cancers of the throat, anus, penis, vagina, and mouth, the campaign reflects a bold public health strategy rooted in decades of scientific progress.Also Read: New Parkinson's Treatment Is Like A Pacemaker To The BrainHPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally. By age 45, about 80% of people—both men and women—will have contracted some form of HPV. While most of these infections are harmless and cleared naturally by the immune system, high-risk strains can linger and mutate healthy cells, leading to cancer.In the cervix, HPV causes a gradual change in skin cells—a process called cervical dysplasia. This is where the transformation zone (the meeting point of squamous and glandular cells in the cervix) becomes the site of potential cancerous growth. If left unchecked, these abnormal cells can progress from CIN1 (mild dysplasia) to CIN2 or CIN3 (moderate to severe), and eventually become malignant.What makes HPV particularly dangerous is its ability to evade apoptosis, the normal process where damaged cells self-destruct. Instead, it integrates its own genetic material into cervical cells, making them immortal and prone to uncontrollable growth.In 2022 alone, 130,000 women across the European Economic Area (EEA)—which includes the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway—were newly diagnosed with cervical cancer, and 14,000 died. Even more alarming are the HPV-related head and neck cancers, which impacted 86,000 people in the region, 74% of them men, causing about 26,000 deaths.The World Health Organization (WHO) defines cervical cancer elimination as fewer than four cases per 100,000 women. Current rates in the EEA sit at 56 per 100,000. Europe may reach the WHO's goal by 2050—but only if vaccination and screening efforts scale up dramatically.The NHS is using every tool available to close this immunization gap. GP practices across England are now contacting unvaccinated individuals aged 16–25 through letters, emails, texts, and even the NHS App. The message is clear: one dose can save your life.According to Dr. Amanda Doyle, NHS National Director of Primary Care and Community Services, "Too many lives are lost to cervical cancer… this vaccine is hugely important—not just for girls and women, but for boys and men too."Previously, the vaccine required two doses, but as of 2023, a single dose is now recommended for most. This simplifies logistics and removes a barrier for many. National data from the 2023/24 academic year reveals progress, but also stark disparities. Among Year 10 students (ages 14–15):76.7% of girls and 71.2% of boys were vaccinated.In Year 8 (ages 12–13), uptake was slightly lower: 72.9% of girls, 67.7% of boys.Yet coverage varies dramatically by region:In London, Year 10 uptake for girls is just 64.9%, and only 58.9% for boys.In contrast, the South East boasts 82.7% (girls) and 77.3% (boys).At a hyperlocal level, places like Lambeth in London saw just 38.7% of girls vaccinated, compared to 97.6% in Northumberland.For boys, rates ranged from 28.2% (Lambeth) to 92.2% (West Berkshire).This patchwork points to deep-rooted health inequalities—a challenge public health officials must address to ensure the vaccine’s promise reaches all communities.Why It Is Important To Reinforce the Safety and Efficacy of the New Vaccine?Since 2021, the UK has been administering an updated HPV vaccine that research shows is significantly more effective than earlier versions. Compared to the previous vaccine, the current one is expected to reduce women’s cancer cases by 16% and lower HPV-related deaths by 9%. What makes this advancement even more compelling is real-world data from England, which indicates the vaccine prevents up to 90% of cervical cancer cases. In practical terms, this means that for individuals who receive the vaccine before being exposed to the virus, the risk of developing cervical cancer is not just lowered—it’s almost entirely eliminated.While cervical cancer remains the primary concern, the HPV vaccine offers protection against a wider range of serious health issues, including genital warts, anal cancer, penile cancer, and head and neck cancers—particularly those affecting the mouth and throat. This broader protection underscores the importance of vaccinating not just girls and women, but also boys and men. They face direct risks and also play a significant role in transmitting the virus to sexual partners, potentially putting others at risk for HPV-related cancers.To accelerate progress, the NHS has outlined a clear roadmap in its 10-Year Health Plan. Key goals include achieving 90% HPV vaccine coverage among girls by 2040 and increasing participation in cervical screening programs. In a move to streamline access and engagement, the NHS recently rolled out a ‘ping and book’ system through its App, allowing eligible individuals to receive digital invitations and reminders for cervical screening appointments. Public health minister Ashley Dalton called the HPV vaccine “our most powerful tool” in eliminating cervical cancer but acknowledged that “there is still a long way to go” in reaching full coverage and equity.And that’s the real message here: the science is ready. The infrastructure exists. What’s missing is participation—from parents, from young adults, and from the health systems that must ensure equitable access.The effort to eliminate cervical cancer is no longer a medical fantasy—it’s a public health reality within reach. But it will take collective action, clear messaging, and targeted strategies to overcome gaps in access and awareness.If you're between 16 and 25 in England and missed the jab in school, this is your moment. If you're a parent, ask your child’s GP. If you're a policymaker, look at your region’s numbers because the truth is simple: a single vaccine dose today could save a life tomorrow.

nhs pushes to vaccinate 400,000+ youths to eliminated cervical cancer by 2040

Rakesh Roshan Undergoes Angioplasty, Shares Health Update And Asks People Over 40 To Get Regular CT Scan

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Veteran filmmaker <span>Rakesh Roshan</span>, known for hits like <em>Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai </em>and <em>Krrish</em>, opened up on Tuesday about his recent health scare that led to an urgent <span>angioplasty</span> procedure. 

In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 74-year-old shared a photo from his hospital room, shaking hands with a nurse and thanking the medical team who cared for him.

While the photo appeared reassuring, his caption revealed a critical diagnosis that had, until recently, gone unnoticed.

<h2>Why Routine Checkups Are Important?</h2>

Roshan wrote that during a routine full-body check-up, a cardiologist recommended a sonography of the neck. This suggestion proved to be a turning point. “By chance, we found out that although asymptomatic, both my carotid arteries to the brain were above 75% blocked,” he shared. “Which, if ignored, could be potentially dangerous.”

Without any outward symptoms, the condition could have led to a stroke or other serious complications. He immediately checked into the hospital to undergo “preventative procedures,” including angioplasty.

Now safely back home, Roshan says he feels well and is eager to resume his workouts. “I hope this inspires others to stay on top of their health, especially where the heart and brain is concerned,” he wrote.

<h2>A Reminder for Preventive Care Over Cure</h2>

The filmmaker urged everyone over the age of 45–50 to consider a CT scan for the heart and a carotid artery sonography as part of their annual health screenings. These tests, often overlooked, can detect hidden arterial blockages that may not present symptoms until it’s too late.

“I think it’s important to remember that prevention is always better than cure. I wish a healthy and aware year to you all,” he added.

His message was met with an outpouring of support from friends and well-wishers across the industry. Actors, including Anil Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, Tiger Shroff, and others left supportive comments and emojis. Roshan’s daughter Sunaina had also earlier confirmed to the media that her father had undergone an angioplasty “in his neck” and assured fans that he was “perfectly fine.”

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, angioplasty is a medical procedure used to restore blood flow through narrowed or blocked arteries. It is most commonly done to treat coronary artery disease but can also be used in other parts of the body, such as the carotid arteries leading to the brain.

The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel. The catheter is guided to the blocked area, where a small balloon is inflated to compress plaque against the artery wall, thus opening the vessel and improving blood flow. In some cases, an atherectomy may also be performed to shave or remove the plaque.

<h2>The Role of Stents in Preventing Re-Narrowing</h2>

In nearly all modern angioplasty procedures, a stent is inserted to help keep the artery open. A stent is a tiny, mesh-like metal coil that is expanded at the site of blockage. Once placed, it prevents the artery from narrowing again.

<h3>There are two types of stents:</h3><ul><li>Drug-eluting stents, which release medication to prevent scar tissue buildup</li><li>Bare metal stents, which don’t have a drug coating but are used in patients who may be at higher risk of bleeding</li></ul>

Post-procedure, patients are typically prescribed antiplatelet medications to reduce the risk of blood clots and to ensure the stent remains open.

While angioplasty is a relatively safe procedure, there can be complications if the stent becomes blocked or scar tissue develops. Some patients may require a repeat procedure or even radiation therapy (brachytherapy) to clear the narrowing.

That’s why ongoing medical supervision and lifestyle changes—such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco—are key to long-term heart and brain health.

heart health

rakesh roshan

health news india

angioplasty

Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, known for hits like Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai and Krrish, opened up on Tuesday about his recent health scare that led to an urgent angioplasty procedure. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 74-year-old shared a photo from his hospital room, shaking hands with a nurse and thanking the medical team who cared for him.While the photo appeared reassuring, his caption revealed a critical diagnosis that had, until recently, gone unnoticed.Why Routine Checkups Are Important?Roshan wrote that during a routine full-body check-up, a cardiologist recommended a sonography of the neck. This suggestion proved to be a turning point. “By chance, we found out that although asymptomatic, both my carotid arteries to the brain were above 75% blocked,” he shared. “Which, if ignored, could be potentially dangerous.”Also Read: New Parkinson's Treatment Is Like A Pacemaker To The BrainWithout any outward symptoms, the condition could have led to a stroke or other serious complications. He immediately checked into the hospital to undergo “preventative procedures,” including angioplasty.Now safely back home, Roshan says he feels well and is eager to resume his workouts. “I hope this inspires others to stay on top of their health, especially where the heart and brain is concerned,” he wrote.A Reminder for Preventive Care Over CureThe filmmaker urged everyone over the age of 45–50 to consider a CT scan for the heart and a carotid artery sonography as part of their annual health screenings. These tests, often overlooked, can detect hidden arterial blockages that may not present symptoms until it’s too late.“I think it’s important to remember that prevention is always better than cure. I wish a healthy and aware year to you all,” he added.His message was met with an outpouring of support from friends and well-wishers across the industry. Actors, including Anil Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, Tiger Shroff, and others left supportive comments and emojis. Roshan’s daughter Sunaina had also earlier confirmed to the media that her father had undergone an angioplasty “in his neck” and assured fans that he was “perfectly fine.”            View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Rakesh Roshan (@rakesh_roshan9)]]>What Is Angioplasty?According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, angioplasty is a medical procedure used to restore blood flow through narrowed or blocked arteries. It is most commonly done to treat coronary artery disease but can also be used in other parts of the body, such as the carotid arteries leading to the brain.The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel. The catheter is guided to the blocked area, where a small balloon is inflated to compress plaque against the artery wall, thus opening the vessel and improving blood flow. In some cases, an atherectomy may also be performed to shave or remove the plaque.The Role of Stents in Preventing Re-NarrowingIn nearly all modern angioplasty procedures, a stent is inserted to help keep the artery open. A stent is a tiny, mesh-like metal coil that is expanded at the site of blockage. Once placed, it prevents the artery from narrowing again.There are two types of stents:Drug-eluting stents, which release medication to prevent scar tissue buildupBare metal stents, which don’t have a drug coating but are used in patients who may be at higher risk of bleedingPost-procedure, patients are typically prescribed antiplatelet medications to reduce the risk of blood clots and to ensure the stent remains open.Risks and Follow-Up CareWhile angioplasty is a relatively safe procedure, there can be complications if the stent becomes blocked or scar tissue develops. Some patients may require a repeat procedure or even radiation therapy (brachytherapy) to clear the narrowing.That’s why ongoing medical supervision and lifestyle changes—such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco—are key to long-term heart and brain health.

rakesh roshan undergoes angioplasty, shares health update and asks people over 40 to get regular ct scan

Federal Investigation Uncovers Failures in Organ Donation Protocols, Triggers National Reforms

World Brain Day: Can Your Mind Break The Body? How Chronic Anxiety Might Be Fueling Neurodegeneration

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Your Brain May Have Aged During The Pandemic, Even Without Getting COVID

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a major overhaul of the nation’s organ transplant system, following a disturbing federal investigation that revealed serious ethical and safety concerns. At the heart of the issue is a Kentucky-based organ procurement organization (OPO), which allegedly continued preparations for organ donation in patients who showed signs of life.

The revelations have triggered swift action from federal agencies, as lawmakers call for transparency, stronger safeguards, and a renewed effort to rebuild public trust in the transplant process.

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), under HHS, reviewed 351 authorized but incomplete organ donation cases linked to the Kentucky OPO that also serves Southwest Ohio and parts of West Virginia. Investigators found troubling practices in at least 103 of those cases, including patients displaying neurological signs incompatible with organ donation and concerns that some may not have been fully deceased at the time organ procurement was initiated.

Additional issues uncovered included poor neurological assessments, lack of coordination with medical teams, questionable consent processes, and misclassification of causes of death, especially in drug overdose cases. Smaller and rural hospitals were found to be especially vulnerable due to inconsistent oversight and limited resources.

<h4>Reopening a Closed Case and Demanding Accountability</h4>

The HRSA has now directed the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) to reopen a previously closed case that had been dismissed by the OPTN Board of Directors. The earlier review had claimed "no major concerns" in the case of a neurologically injured patient. However, the new independent investigation contradicted that conclusion and cited potential negligence.

The Kentucky OPO is now required to conduct a thorough root cause analysis, especially focusing on failures like not observing the required five-minute wait after cardiac death before beginning organ recovery. The organization must also implement stricter donor eligibility rules and establish a clear, formal procedure that allows any hospital or OPO staff member to halt the donation process if patient safety is at risk.

HRSA warned that the OPO will face decertification if it fails to comply with these corrective measures.

<h4>A Call for Reform and Reassurance</h4>

During a congressional hearing this week, Rep. Brett Guthrie of Kentucky, whose own mother died while awaiting a liver transplant, stressed the importance of restoring public confidence in the system.

“We have to get this right,” Guthrie said. “Hopefully people will walk away today knowing we need to address issues but still confident that they can give life.” He reaffirmed his commitment to remain a registered organ donor.

Lawmakers emphasized that while most organ donations are conducted safely and ethically, the near-misses uncovered by the investigation are deeply concerning and could deter future donors. Some families have already chosen to opt out of organ donor registries after these incidents were made public.

<h4>How Organ Donation Works in the U.S.</h4>

Organ donation in the U.S. is a complex process involving multiple entities. Hospitals are responsible for caring for critically ill or brain-dead patients. Once death is declared or life support is withdrawn, hospitals notify local OPOs, which coordinate the recovery and placement of organs with transplant centers.

While most donations occur after brain death, a growing number take place after circulatory death, when the heart stops following withdrawal of life support. In these cases, organs are only viable if death occurs quickly and is confirmed with a mandatory five-minute waiting period.

OPOs are not allowed to be involved in declaring death or the decision to end life support. However, recent reports suggest a blurred line in practice, with concerns that OPOs have pressured hospitals during end-of-life decisions.

<h4>Stronger Safeguards, Greater Transparency</h4>

As part of its response, HRSA has ordered the OPTN to strengthen national safeguards and mandate reporting of any instance where donation is paused due to concerns from families, hospital staff, or OPO teams. The aim is to create a culture where patient eligibility is continually reassessed and where concerns can be raised without fear.

In Kentucky, the OPO says it has already begun implementing changes. Staff at every partnering hospital are now given checklists outlining protocols for identifying and handling potential donors. A new system has also been set up to allow anonymous reporting of any concerns.

Barry Massa, head of Kentucky’s Network for Hope, emphasized that OPOs do not participate in life support decisions and are “not even in the room” when such determinations are made. Still, HRSA insists that the transplant network needs more proactive collaboration and clearly defined boundaries to protect vulnerable patients.

With over 100,000 people waiting for life-saving organ transplants in the U.S., federal officials say that reforming the system is not just necessary, it’s urgent.

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a major overhaul of the nation’s organ transplant system, following a disturbing federal investigation that revealed serious ethical and safety concerns. At the heart of the issue is a Kentucky-based organ procurement organization (OPO), which allegedly continued preparations for organ donation in patients who showed signs of life.The revelations have triggered swift action from federal agencies, as lawmakers call for transparency, stronger safeguards, and a renewed effort to rebuild public trust in the transplant process.Uncovering a Troubling PatternThe Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), under HHS, reviewed 351 authorized but incomplete organ donation cases linked to the Kentucky OPO that also serves Southwest Ohio and parts of West Virginia. Investigators found troubling practices in at least 103 of those cases, including patients displaying neurological signs incompatible with organ donation and concerns that some may not have been fully deceased at the time organ procurement was initiated.Additional issues uncovered included poor neurological assessments, lack of coordination with medical teams, questionable consent processes, and misclassification of causes of death, especially in drug overdose cases. Smaller and rural hospitals were found to be especially vulnerable due to inconsistent oversight and limited resources.Reopening a Closed Case and Demanding AccountabilityThe HRSA has now directed the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) to reopen a previously closed case that had been dismissed by the OPTN Board of Directors. The earlier review had claimed "no major concerns" in the case of a neurologically injured patient. However, the new independent investigation contradicted that conclusion and cited potential negligence.The Kentucky OPO is now required to conduct a thorough root cause analysis, especially focusing on failures like not observing the required five-minute wait after cardiac death before beginning organ recovery. The organization must also implement stricter donor eligibility rules and establish a clear, formal procedure that allows any hospital or OPO staff member to halt the donation process if patient safety is at risk.HRSA warned that the OPO will face decertification if it fails to comply with these corrective measures.A Call for Reform and ReassuranceDuring a congressional hearing this week, Rep. Brett Guthrie of Kentucky, whose own mother died while awaiting a liver transplant, stressed the importance of restoring public confidence in the system.“We have to get this right,” Guthrie said. “Hopefully people will walk away today knowing we need to address issues but still confident that they can give life.” He reaffirmed his commitment to remain a registered organ donor.Lawmakers emphasized that while most organ donations are conducted safely and ethically, the near-misses uncovered by the investigation are deeply concerning and could deter future donors. Some families have already chosen to opt out of organ donor registries after these incidents were made public.How Organ Donation Works in the U.S.Organ donation in the U.S. is a complex process involving multiple entities. Hospitals are responsible for caring for critically ill or brain-dead patients. Once death is declared or life support is withdrawn, hospitals notify local OPOs, which coordinate the recovery and placement of organs with transplant centers.While most donations occur after brain death, a growing number take place after circulatory death, when the heart stops following withdrawal of life support. In these cases, organs are only viable if death occurs quickly and is confirmed with a mandatory five-minute waiting period.OPOs are not allowed to be involved in declaring death or the decision to end life support. However, recent reports suggest a blurred line in practice, with concerns that OPOs have pressured hospitals during end-of-life decisions.Stronger Safeguards, Greater TransparencyAs part of its response, HRSA has ordered the OPTN to strengthen national safeguards and mandate reporting of any instance where donation is paused due to concerns from families, hospital staff, or OPO teams. The aim is to create a culture where patient eligibility is continually reassessed and where concerns can be raised without fear.In Kentucky, the OPO says it has already begun implementing changes. Staff at every partnering hospital are now given checklists outlining protocols for identifying and handling potential donors. A new system has also been set up to allow anonymous reporting of any concerns.Barry Massa, head of Kentucky’s Network for Hope, emphasized that OPOs do not participate in life support decisions and are “not even in the room” when such determinations are made. Still, HRSA insists that the transplant network needs more proactive collaboration and clearly defined boundaries to protect vulnerable patients.With over 100,000 people waiting for life-saving organ transplants in the U.S., federal officials say that reforming the system is not just necessary, it’s urgent.

federal investigation uncovers failures in organ donation protocols, triggers national reforms

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