MDNN: Pediatric HIV, Diabetes Websites, Hypertension Guidelines, and an FDA Drug Tablet

Hi, I’m Jenna Payesko, and this is MD Magazine News Network - it’s clinical news for connected physicians.

A new study has found that HIV affects brain development in pediatric patients, whether or not they are taking antiretroviral therapy. The study, led by researchers from the University of Cape Town in South Africa, found that even if children are not infected with HIV, those who are exposed experience changes in their brain’s white matter integrity. Researchers were sure to note that there is still overwhelming evidence indicating early ART treatment is beneficial for pediatric patients.

Diabetes-specific websites that promote physical activity in type 2 diabetes patients generally do not result in an increase in physical activity among visiting patients. Researchers have found that sites promoting physical activity may neglect to include input from health professionals or diabetes patients during development, leading to a null point in the site’s mission. There’s still hope, though. Lead author Dr. Jenni Connelly told MD Magazine that some interactive website components could help improve behavior in type 2 diabetes patients.

The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology has released new guidelines for hypertension, marking the first update in nearly 15 years. The new guidelines lowered the threshold for Stage 1 hypertension to 130/80, and eliminated the prehypertension stage altogether. With the new definition in place, it is estimated that roughly half of Americans have Stage 1 hypertension.

The FDA has approved the first tablet to come equipped with a sensor that can digitally track whether or not patients have taken their medication. The aripiprazole tablets — which are approved for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder, and as an add-on for depression – will be equipped with tracking technology aimed at reducing medical waste and improve adherence to therapy. Current estimates suggest that 50% of patients with chronic conditions do not take their medication.

And now, please enjoy expert insights into psoriatic arthritis from Allan Gibofsky, MD.

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I’m Jenna Payesko for MDNN, thank for you watching.