The “mechanics of pregnancy” hardly seems like a conversation starter.  But a collaboration between a mechanical engineer and an OB/GYN physician hopes to provide answers to some of the basic unknowns about pregnancy and childbirth—like, what triggers labor? For the past three years, the United States has suffered a reversal of fortune when it comes … Continued

The practice of scheduling surgeries to overlap could place some patients in danger. Many patients may not be aware that they share their surgical team with other patients undergoing similar or complimentary procedures.  Overlapping surgery is a scheduling method designed to optimize the time members of a surgical team spend performing their surgical responsibilities. When … Continued

A new study examines an older conversation about whether hits to the head could trigger epilepsy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common and deadly problem in this country.  Approximately 153 people each day die from brain-related injuries.  Brain injury also occurs in medical settings, … Continued

Families rejoice when mom and baby come home.  For some mom’s, though, the next physical challenge is just beginning. New moms are usually exhausted, recovering from delivery, and taking care of a newborn.  Breastfeeding can be challenging for first-time moms and healthcare providers are often less attentive after baby enters the world. Many times women … Continued

Rescue workers and volunteers at the World Trade Center ruins after 9/11 continue to suffer the consequences of their exposure to cancer-causing agents. The twin towers of the World Trade Center (WTC) catastrophically collapsed after being strategically attacked by two hijacked airplanes.  Few can forget the horror of this event, and the ensuing video of … Continued

New research suggests ultraviolet (UV) light may work to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that infection transmitted to patients in a healthcare setting leads to the death of almost 100,000 people per year.  Microbes are opportunistic and thrive in healthcare facilities where hygiene and … Continued

The term “clean breathing water” seems like nonsense, but clean water supplies are critical to avoiding water or mist-borne germs. In December, 2018, one person died and another became ill due to Legionnaire’s disease in Hastings, Michigan.  While the bacteria that causes Legionnaire’s was detected in the water supply of a local hospital, it is … Continued

3M is a Minnesota-based company known for making countless worker safety, health care, and consumer products, including combat earplugs. Unfortunately, thousands of military service men and women who were issued 3M’s Dual-Ended Combat Arms Earplugs between 2003-2015 have allegedly suffered hearing loss and tinnitus. While there is no cure for these debilitating conditions, surgical procedures, … Continued

For pregnant women, infection during pregnancy may be dangerous to their unborn child—and increase their risk of post-partum stroke. During the recent meeting of the American Stroke Association, researchers reviewed and discussed the impacts and causes of cerebrovascular disease around the world.  Preliminary research presented during the conference points to risk factors for stroke.  One … Continued

The quick action of paramedics often shortens suffering and saves lives.  Could those actions also be spreading dangerous germs? A recent study published in the BMJ took a close look at hand hygiene practices of first responders around the world.  And frankly, those practices come up a little short. We are taught from a young … Continued