This week, our respected medical roundtable explores the forefront of health care, discussing the latest breakthroughs and emerging trends that are shaping the industry.
Among the topics discussed:
- In 2022, there were over 207,000 reported cases of syphilis, a 17% increase from the previous year and a concerning 80% surge since 2018, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Experts link this rise to factors like drug use and decreasing condom use, especially among heterosexual individuals.
- The CDC plans to update its guidelines for COVID 19, doing away with the previous suggestion of a five-day stay-at-home period for those who test positive. People would no longer need to stay home if they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of medication and their symptoms are mild and improving. The change in isolation recommendations would be the first time since 2021, aligning them with strategies aimed at preventing the transmission of flu and RSV.
- In two British cities, vending machines are now providing complimentary self-test kits for sexually transmitted diseases, with the goal of overcoming testing barriers and diminishing the stigma of going to the clinic. These kits encompass tests for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.
- A recent study reveals a correlation between the use of most weight loss drugs and reduced likelihood of receiving depression and anxiety.
Panel:
- Dr. Sarah Bodin, board certified anesthesiologist.
- Dr. Dacre Knight, director of the Ehlers Danlos Clinic.
- Dr. Chad Nielsen, director of accreditation and infection prevention, UF Health Jacksonville.
