Cardiovascular Risk Reduction With Icosapent Ethyl: A Systematic Literature Review.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States of America due to elevated triglyceride levels. High triglyceride levels lead to higher risks of ischemic events. There are multiple pieces of research and analyses on statin therapy and its ability to reduce the prevalence of heart complications. Heart ailments can reduce through the use of icosapent ethyl in the form of statin therapy. This literature review will explain the reduction of cardiovascular risks with icosapent ethyl. Though some genetic conditions can cause some of these ailments, the rest of the predisposing conditions revolve around cholesterol, lipoproteins, and triglycerides.

Fingertip Injuries and Amputations: A Review of the Literature.

The fingertip is defined as the part of the digit distal to the insertion of the extensor and flexor tendons on the distal phalanx. Devastating injuries to the hand occur every year that lead fingertip amputations in thousands of people. The highest incidence rates are usually seen in children less than five years old and in adults over the age of 65. There are various presentations of injury that may end up with post-traumatic fingertip amputation, including lacerations, avulsions, and crush injuries. The fingertip is vital for sensation, as it has a high concentration of sensory receptors, and hence the restoration of sensation is the most important focus of treatment. The three main goals of treatment are the restoration of sensation and durability in the tip and assuring proper bone support to allow for nail growth. Many complications can arise after fingertip amputation, including delayed wound healing, nail deformities with poor aesthetics, hypersensitivity, residual pain, cold intolerance, scar retraction, flexion contractures, chronic ulceration, infection, and flap loss. The objective of this study is to provide an overview of the anatomy of the fingertip, the presentation of fingertip injuries and their management, and complications that might arise after surgery.

The Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dementia: A Review.

BACKGROUND:  This study explored the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and dementia. These two diseases are a significant health burden that affects the older population, although they have also manifested in young people to a smaller extent. METHODOLOGY:  The study entailed a detailed literature review of articles on RA and dementia. The peer-reviewed articles were sourced from reputable databases such as Research Gate, National Center for Biotechnology Information, PubMed, and Google Scholar. RESULTS:  RA is a chronic disorder that affects millions of Americans. Dementia, on the other hand, is associated with diminishing cognitive capabilities that impair daily living. Both diseases are associated with older persons and genetic factors. Besides, the inflammation associated with RA reduced blood flow to vital body organs, which increases the risk of developing dementia. Additionally, the study revealed that medications used by RA patients increase the risk of developing dementia. However, biological therapies such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors can lower the risk of dementia. CONCLUSION:  There is a need to develop diagnostic procedures that will enable early diagnosis and commencement of treatment to slow down the progression of both disorders. Furthermore, managing these disorders effectively mandates increased awareness about the causality and risk factors of both diseases, especially among young people and at-risk populations to promote lifestyle change and increased uptake of primary care services.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review of Literature.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common medical condition that remains one of the most frequently reported forms of median nerve compression. CTS occurs when the median nerve is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist. The syndrome is characterized by pain in the hand, numbness, and tingling in the distribution of the median nerve. Risk factors for CTS include obesity, monotonous wrist activity, pregnancy, genetic heredity, and rheumatoid inflammation. The diagnosis of CTS is conducted through medical assessments and electrophysiological testing, although idiopathic CTS is the most typical method of diagnosis for patients suffering from these symptoms. The pathophysiology of CTS involves a combination of mechanical trauma, increased pressure, and ischemic damage to the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. The diagnosis of CTS patients requires the respective medical professional to develop a case history associated with the characteristic signs of CTS. In addition, the doctor may question whether the patients use vibratory objects for their tasks, the parts of the arm where the sensations are felt, or if the patient may already have predisposing factors for CTS incidence. During the diagnosis of CTS, it is essential to note that other conditions may also provide similar symptoms to CTS, thus requiring vigorous diagnosis to assert the medical condition of the patients. Doctors use both non-surgical and surgical treatments when addressing CTS. Non-surgical treatments include wrist splinting, change of working position, medications, and the use of alternative non-vibrating equipment at work. On the other hand, surgical methods include open release and endoscopic surgeries. This review of literature has provided an overview of CTS with an emphasis on anatomy, epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, stages of CTS, diagnosis, and management options.

Increased Risk of Esophageal Cancers Among Men in Taiwan.

Despite increased research, the risks of developing esophageal cancer and of death from this disease, especially among men, have increased worldwide. The goals of this review include an assessment of male predominance of esophageal cancer and an analysis of its high mortality rates. Determination of the genetic and environmental factors associated with esophageal cancer may help explain its male predominance and help design more effective treatments of this disease.

Chronic Non-cancer Pain Management and Addiction: A Review.

The use of opioids in chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) has been a fast-rising treatment phenomenon in the last two decades. Though opioids are advocated in various chronic pain management guidelines, their use in chronic non-cancer pain still remains controversial as evidence of this approach is still weak. This paper highlights potential adverse effects associated with opioid use in pain management, including an increase in tolerance, dependence, and addiction outcomes. Nonetheless, opioids have an important place in contemporary CNCP management for selected patients. However, pain management must involve regular monitoring and the use of a multimodal pain management strategy. It is essential that the treating physician must be up-to-date with the form of therapy so that they have the requisite confidence to prescribe opioids and effectively manage adverse effects. Moreover, the adverse effects should be treated promptly to enhance patient compliance. Since this approach is beneficial for some patients, opioid treatment should only be applied on a case by case basis.

Workforce development for older youth.

The challenges facing youth who are disconnected from our nation's employment and education systems are expansive. Research has suggested that youth services and supports that are grounded in a developmental approach not only help young people avoid self-destructive behavior, but also enable them to acquire the academic and work-readiness skills and personal attributes that employers seek. In 1995, the National Youth Employment Coalition and its members established the Promising and Effective Practices Network (PEPNet) to identify the key elements of quality youth programs and develop tools that would help organizations establish, connect to, and promote quality programs. PEPNet represents a standards framework that captures the key elements common to successful programs that connect youth to jobs, careers, and education. This chapter provides some insights into the current practices that have been implemented to facilitate older youth's transition to the workforce and highlights the supports youth need for successful adulthood, citizenship, and career pursuits.