Researchers Keep Tabs on Deadly Diseases

The recent media attention that has been focused on the strange case of an international traveler afflicted with a rare form of tuberculosis coincides with the release of a number of studies dealing with the prevention, transmission, and emergence of other infectious diseases. This week, we?ll take a look at some of the top disease-related news from around the globe.

Potentially Risky E. coli Bacteria Found Near Lakes, Rivers

Just as the season of outdoor recreation begins to kick into high gear, researchers have found evidence linking possible bacterial infection to freshwater beaches. Although E. coli is typically associated with the fecal waste of humans and other mammals, scientists have proven that high concentrations of the dangerous bacteria are often found in close proximity to popular vacation and recreation spots, including several of the most frequented beaches and freshwater recreation areas.

Most interestingly, the researchers working on the project have contended that E. coli and some related bacterial strains may have actually adapted to reproduce in sandy beach conditions. The warm, moist summer months often provide the ideal conditions for bacterial growth and infection. However, scientists point out that a fatal E. coli infection is unlikely to occur in this environment. A more potentially harmful danger is posed by some of the other bacteria likely to be found in areas where E. coli are also found, such as salmonella.

New Genetic Links Identified for Several Major Diseases

A team of researchers in England has achieved a major breakthrough with the publication of a study that found several groundbreaking connections between human genes and diseases. In total, the researchers identified 24 genetic markers that can be used to identify risk factors for seven common diseases and health problems.

The results were the outcome of one of the largest, longest studies of genetic disease links that has ever been conducted. Over the course of five years, the researchers analyzed over half a million genetic samples submitted by over 17,000 participants in the study. The diseases that were studied included Crohn?s disease, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, bipolar disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, and bipolar disorder.

Although the nature of each of the genetic links that were uncovered varied, the researchers were able to focus on unique cellular activities and behaviors that were linked with a greater risk of developing these health problems. According to the researchers, these findings are an important precursor of the type of findings that will become increasingly common in the near future, as genetic research and analysis grows more advanced.

Newly Discovered Sexually-Transmitted Disease Surpasses Gonorrhea

In a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington, the growing incidence and prevalence of an STD known as mycoplasma genitalium was documented and assessed. It was found that this condition, first described in the medical literature in the 1980s, was much more widespread than previously thought, even eclipsing several common STDs, including gonorrhea.

Compared to many other types of sexually-transmitted diseases, the symptoms of mycoplasma genitalium are relatively minor. Common outcomes include inflammation and slight to moderate pain of the urethra in men, as well as inflammation of the uterus and uterine lining in women. In many cases, there are no detectable symptoms at all. However, researchers believe that over time, the symptoms could result in damage to the reproductive system, including a loss of fertility.

The study also found that the risk of mycoplasma genitalium was highest among individuals who lived with their intimate partner. Somewhat surprisingly, it was also found that condom users were 4 times more likely to have the disease than those who used other types of birth control.

Meningitis Epidemic May be Curbed with New Vaccine

In developing nations such as Africa, meningitis represents a dire threat to public health. The bacterial infection of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord., which is often spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes, has caused millions of deaths in the last fifty years alone. Public health officials have high hopes for a newly developed vaccine that is much more effective than previous versions.

Although it is not expected that the new vaccine will eradicate the disease entirely, it is believed to have the ability to significantly reduce the epidemic outbreaks that are most deadly in terms of lives lost. It is effective against type A meningitis, which is typically associated with the highest mortality rates.

In several preliminary rounds of investigation, the new vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective. However, more testing will be necessary before the vaccine will be approved for general use.

Check back with Health Science News each week for a round-up of the breakthroughs and discoveries that impact your health.