Articles related to HEALTH OUTCOMES

A systematic review of 30 longitudinal MRI studies found that CPAP therapy in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may be associated with structural, functional, vascular, and metabolic brain changes. However, the evidence remains heterogeneous, largely exploratory, and insufficient to support routine MRI monitoring of treatment response.

An editorial in Obesity highlights emerging evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists may provide benefits beyond weight loss and glycemic control, while emphasizing unresolved questions regarding muscle preservation, nutritional status, and potential effects on substance use disorders.

A post hoc analysis of five brexpiprazole trials found improved functioning in adults with schizophrenia, including those with baseline hostility or agitation. The exploratory findings require interpretation alongside trial-design limitations and lack of multiplicity adjustment.

Among more than 7,300 Swedish patients with Alzheimer’s disease and atrial fibrillation, NOAC use was associated with slower cognitive decline than warfarin or no anticoagulation. The observational findings did not establish causality but suggest potential differences in long-term cognitive outcomes.

A mathematical modeling study estimated that somatic DNA mutations alone could limit median human life span to roughly 146 to 194 years. The findings add to ongoing research suggesting that aging reflects multiple interacting biological processes rather than a single mechanism.

Across 14 health-system specialty pharmacies, pharmacist interventions were associated with an estimated $3.6 million in avoided medication costs over six months. The analysis used a structured attribution method to assess the likelihood that individual interventions altered treatment trajectories.