Patient-Forward Rundown
Top headlines from this week to share with your patient
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Keep up with the latest headlines in dermatology from the past week, including an innovative skin cancer approach, the role of soy protein in clinical trials and skin health, and more.
In 2023, an estimated 45,000 Kentuckians are expected to be diagnosed with skin cancer, with about 10,000 cases in Jefferson County. One clinic in Louisville offers an innovative, non-invasive treatment that uses x-rays to eliminate skin cancer without scarring. This approach, unlike traditional methods like Mohs surgery, is painless and leaves no visible scars. The clinic has achieved a 99% cure rate for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.
A skin infection outbreak in Texas may be linked to tiny sand flies. These female sand flies transmit Leishmaniasis, a parasite, causing painful lesions and other symptoms. Sonja Swiger, an expert from Texas A&M Agrilife, explained that their small size often makes them unnoticed, and they can get the parasite from travelers or rodents. Local cases have been reported in Texas, possibly due to infected travelers returning from abroad. Texas is the only state required to report such cases, with around 9 to 11 cases consistently in recent years. Protective measures include using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves. These sand flies can even pass through regular mosquito nets.
Top headlines from this week to share with your patient
Holly Dillon, who lives with psoriasis, established "Get Your Skin Out" to challenge stigmas around visible skin conditions. Initially a social media hashtag, it has grown into a campaign and platform that humanizes people beyond their skin issues, promoting awareness and inclusivity. Dillon calls on the entertainment industry to cast actors with visible skin conditions in relevant roles, emphasizing the need for authenticity on screen and the power of relatability.
Postmenopausal women who consumed 30 grams of soy protein with isoflavones daily for 6 months experienced improved skin health, including reduced wrinkles, pigmentation, and increased hydration, according to a clinical trial. The study was conducted by scientists from Integrative Skin Science and Research in California, funded by the United Soybean Board, and commissioned by the Soy Nutrition Institute Global. This research suggests that adding two servings of soy foods to one's diet can benefit skin health.
Patients in North Queensland who trialed deucravacitinib (SOTYKTU) reported dramatic improvements in psoriasis. Access to treatment is challenging for regional Australians due to a shortage of dermatologists, but efforts are being made to improve access to new medications and expert advice in regional areas.
Have you seen any dermatology headlines this week that we may have missed? Share with us by emailing our team at DTEditor@mmhgroup.com.