Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

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

Even if you never tested positive for COVID-19, the pandemic may have still left a trace in your brain. A new study published in Nature Communications by scientists at the University of Nottingham has revealed that living through the pandemic—even without infection—has biologically “aged” our brains. Using MRI brain scans and machine learning models, the research found signs of accelerated brain aging in people who endured the pandemic years, a change most notable in older adults, men, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals.

This isn’t just about stress or feeling low—researchers observed measurable structural changes in the brain, especially in white and grey matter. The findings also suggest that these changes may have accelerated brain aging by as much as five and a half months.

The research team, led by Dr. Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad and supported by the UK Biobank, National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), and the MRC DEMISTIFI programme, examined MRI brain scans of nearly 1,000 healthy adults. These scans were taken both before and after the pandemic. Using artificial intelligence and data from over 15,000 individuals, researchers trained a model to estimate “brain age”—a biological estimate of how old a brain appears structurally compared to the person’s actual age.

When comparing scans of people taken pre-pandemic to those taken after, the team observed notable structural changes associated with brain aging, particularly in those who had not contracted COVID-19. These findings raise the question: how could the mere experience of living through a pandemic affect our brains?

While the virus itself has been linked to cognitive decline and neurological damage, this study shows that just the psychological burden of the pandemic—lockdowns, isolation, anxiety about health and jobs may have had its own impact on brain health.

The researchers propose that the observed changes could stem from a mix of stress-induced neurobiological responses, decreased physical activity, disrupted sleep, dietary changes, increased alcohol use, or reduced social interaction. Brain regions affected by these factors overlap with those involved in memory, emotional regulation, and sensory processing functions often impaired in aging.

Professor Dorothee Auer, senior author on the study, noted, “This study reminds us that brain health is shaped not only by illness, but by our everyday environment.” And during the pandemic, that environment was far from ordinary.

Another striking aspect of the findings is who was most affected. The research found that men and individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds showed the greatest signs of accelerated brain aging.

People with fewer resources may have faced greater challenges—job loss, lack of healthcare access, limited social support—heightening the toll of pandemic-related stress. Additionally, male brains may respond differently to stress-related changes in white matter and inflammation, a hypothesis researchers continue to explore.

Still, it's worth noting that UK Biobank participants skew wealthier and healthier than the general UK population. In that sense, these findings may actually underestimate the brain-health toll on more vulnerable communities globally.

<h2>Does Brain Aging Translate to Cognitive Decline?</h2>

Interestingly, only participants who had been infected with COVID-19 showed clear declines in cognitive function, such as processing speed and mental flexibility. This suggests that the structural changes seen in uninfected individuals may not yet produce symptoms—or at least not obvious ones.

That said, the concept of “brain age” does matter. A brain that looks older than its actual age is associated with higher risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s and can affect emotional regulation and memory over time. It’s not a definitive diagnosis, but it’s a warning light.

Encouragingly, the study's authors believe the effects may be reversible. The brain has remarkable plasticity, its ability to adapt and recover from stress or injury. Lifestyle improvements, mental health support, exercise, sleep, and meaningful social connection may help restore cognitive resilience.

<h2>Are There Additional Neurological Concerns For People Who Had COVID?</h2>

Separately, a study conducted by NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, India) during the early months of the pandemic observed neurological complications in COVID-positive patients. Among 3,200 cases, 120 individuals developed conditions like stroke, encephalopathy, meningoencephalitis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

According to Dr. Netravathi M, professor of neurology at NIMHANS, COVID may impact both the central and peripheral nervous systems. These findings further underline how deeply the virus—and the environment it created—has influenced neurological health worldwide. Dr. Netravathi recommends a national registry to track long-term neurological outcomes from both COVID-19 infection and vaccination, underscoring the need for better monitoring and follow-up care.

This research serves as a wake-up call: even without physical illness, collective trauma has tangible effects on our brains. Mental and cognitive health must become a bigger part of post-pandemic recovery plans, not just in hospitals, but in homes, schools, and workplaces.

Governments and healthcare systems should support ongoing research into cognitive recovery, fund wellness programs, and make mental health care more accessible—especially for marginalized groups hit hardest by the pandemic.

For individuals, this means paying attention to brain health the same way we do blood pressure or weight. Regular exercise, meaningful social contact, cognitive stimulation, sleep, and stress management are not just good habits—they’re protective factors against premature brain aging.

Even if you escaped infection, your brain likely didn’t come through the pandemic unscathed. Structural aging linked to prolonged stress, social isolation, and lifestyle disruption is now being measured with hard data. But there’s hope: these changes may be reversible, and we now have an opportunity to prioritize brain health more consciously.

As Dr. Mohammadi-Nejad put it, “It really shows how much the experience of the pandemic itself—everything from isolation to uncertainty—may have affected our brain health.” Now, it’s up to us to invest in that recovery, not just physically, but mentally too.

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Even if you never tested positive for COVID-19, the pandemic may have still left a trace in your brain. A new study published in Nature Communications by scientists at the University of Nottingham has revealed that living through the pandemic—even without infection—has biologically “aged” our brains. Using MRI brain scans and machine learning models, the research found signs of accelerated brain aging in people who endured the pandemic years, a change most notable in older adults, men, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals.This isn’t just about stress or feeling low—researchers observed measurable structural changes in the brain, especially in white and grey matter. The findings also suggest that these changes may have accelerated brain aging by as much as five and a half months.The research team, led by Dr. Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad and supported by the UK Biobank, National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), and the MRC DEMISTIFI programme, examined MRI brain scans of nearly 1,000 healthy adults. These scans were taken both before and after the pandemic. Using artificial intelligence and data from over 15,000 individuals, researchers trained a model to estimate “brain age”—a biological estimate of how old a brain appears structurally compared to the person’s actual age.When comparing scans of people taken pre-pandemic to those taken after, the team observed notable structural changes associated with brain aging, particularly in those who had not contracted COVID-19. These findings raise the question: how could the mere experience of living through a pandemic affect our brains?While the virus itself has been linked to cognitive decline and neurological damage, this study shows that just the psychological burden of the pandemic—lockdowns, isolation, anxiety about health and jobs may have had its own impact on brain health.The researchers propose that the observed changes could stem from a mix of stress-induced neurobiological responses, decreased physical activity, disrupted sleep, dietary changes, increased alcohol use, or reduced social interaction. Brain regions affected by these factors overlap with those involved in memory, emotional regulation, and sensory processing functions often impaired in aging.Professor Dorothee Auer, senior author on the study, noted, “This study reminds us that brain health is shaped not only by illness, but by our everyday environment.” And during the pandemic, that environment was far from ordinary.Another striking aspect of the findings is who was most affected. The research found that men and individuals from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds showed the greatest signs of accelerated brain aging.People with fewer resources may have faced greater challenges—job loss, lack of healthcare access, limited social support—heightening the toll of pandemic-related stress. Additionally, male brains may respond differently to stress-related changes in white matter and inflammation, a hypothesis researchers continue to explore.Still, it's worth noting that UK Biobank participants skew wealthier and healthier than the general UK population. In that sense, these findings may actually underestimate the brain-health toll on more vulnerable communities globally.Does Brain Aging Translate to Cognitive Decline?Interestingly, only participants who had been infected with COVID-19 showed clear declines in cognitive function, such as processing speed and mental flexibility. This suggests that the structural changes seen in uninfected individuals may not yet produce symptoms—or at least not obvious ones.That said, the concept of “brain age” does matter. A brain that looks older than its actual age is associated with higher risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s and can affect emotional regulation and memory over time. It’s not a definitive diagnosis, but it’s a warning light.Encouragingly, the study's authors believe the effects may be reversible. The brain has remarkable plasticity, its ability to adapt and recover from stress or injury. Lifestyle improvements, mental health support, exercise, sleep, and meaningful social connection may help restore cognitive resilience.Are There Additional Neurological Concerns For People Who Had COVID?Separately, a study conducted by NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, India) during the early months of the pandemic observed neurological complications in COVID-positive patients. Among 3,200 cases, 120 individuals developed conditions like stroke, encephalopathy, meningoencephalitis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.According to Dr. Netravathi M, professor of neurology at NIMHANS, COVID may impact both the central and peripheral nervous systems. These findings further underline how deeply the virus—and the environment it created—has influenced neurological health worldwide. Dr. Netravathi recommends a national registry to track long-term neurological outcomes from both COVID-19 infection and vaccination, underscoring the need for better monitoring and follow-up care.This research serves as a wake-up call: even without physical illness, collective trauma has tangible effects on our brains. Mental and cognitive health must become a bigger part of post-pandemic recovery plans, not just in hospitals, but in homes, schools, and workplaces.Governments and healthcare systems should support ongoing research into cognitive recovery, fund wellness programs, and make mental health care more accessible—especially for marginalized groups hit hardest by the pandemic.For individuals, this means paying attention to brain health the same way we do blood pressure or weight. Regular exercise, meaningful social contact, cognitive stimulation, sleep, and stress management are not just good habits—they’re protective factors against premature brain aging.Even if you escaped infection, your brain likely didn’t come through the pandemic unscathed. Structural aging linked to prolonged stress, social isolation, and lifestyle disruption is now being measured with hard data. But there’s hope: these changes may be reversible, and we now have an opportunity to prioritize brain health more consciously.As Dr. Mohammadi-Nejad put it, “It really shows how much the experience of the pandemic itself—everything from isolation to uncertainty—may have affected our brain health.” Now, it’s up to us to invest in that recovery, not just physically, but mentally too.

your brain may have aged during the pandemic, even without getting covid

Ishita Roy

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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.

<h4>From Reluctance to Relief: One Patient’s Journey</h4>

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.

<h4>What Makes Adaptive DBS Different?</h4>

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.

<h4>A New Era for Parkinson’s Care</h4>

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. 

parkinsons disease

parkinson disease

pacemaker for brain

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health news australia

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.What 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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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.

<h4>Why Routine Checkups Are Important</h4>

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.

<h4>A Reminder for Preventive Care Over Cure</h4>

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.

<h4>The Role of Stents in Preventing Re-Narrowing</h4>

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.

<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.

rakesh roshan

heart health

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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 ImportantRoshan 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.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

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.

organ reforms USA

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organ reforms

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.

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