The past year was a big one for health innovations. Here’s a look at some of the most amazing advancements in tests and treatments in 2007.
Researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered bisphosphonates. These compounds actually prevent bacteria from sharing DNA — which could mean an end to drug-resistant bacteria. Bisphosphonates can actually kill the cells that harbor drug-resistant DNA.
Probiotics — the friendly bacteria in the body — can prevent or cure yeast infections. 2007 saw the introduction of an over the counter supplement that contains two strains of lactobacillus that are known to promote vaginal health. It’s called Fem-Dophilus.
Studies in 2007 found a way to detect ovarian cancer up to a year before diagnosis was previously possible. According to the American Cancer Society, certain subtle symptoms can point to ovarian cancer in enough time to prevent ninety percent of ovarian cancer deaths. Approximately 15,000 women died from ovarian cancer in 2007 — imagine if ninety percent of those women could have been saved.
Here are the symptoms to look for:
- Recurring pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Bloating.
- Difficulty eating, or feeling full quickly.
- Feeling an urgent need to urinate.
- Having to urinate often.
If you experience these symptoms almost daily for more than a few weeks, you should see a doctor or gynecologist.
2007 also saw improvements to some existing technology. Catheters are now coated in an antimicrobial silver to help prevent death from infection. The coating can help keep catheters antiseptic for months. GE developed a CT scanner that exposes patients to seventy percent less radiation than a traditional CT scan.
Speaking of CT scanners, Duke University developed a low radiation, three dimensional CT scanner that may replace the mammogram within a few years. The Duke University scanner is twice as accurate and far less painful than a traditional mammogram — and has no distortion from breast compression.