The American journal of medicine
Audio Summaries

From obesity to cardiovascular disease: pathological basis and clinical implications

May 9, 2026

The authors investigate the complex relationship between obesity and cardiovascular disease, highlighting how excess adiposity contributes to various cardiovascular conditions through mechanisms like inflammation and insulin resistance. They emphasize the need for improved obesity phenotyping, risk stratification, and personalized treatment strategies to effectively address the cardiovascular implications of obesity, despite recent therapeutic advancements.

Circulating Apolipoprotein E concentration and incident cardiovascular diseases: evidence from an electronic health record-based cohort

May 8, 2026

This study investigates the relationship between circulating Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) concentrations and the risk of incident cardiovascular diseases, including major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), ischemic heart disease, stroke, and heart failure, in a cohort of adults without prior cardiovascular conditions. The findings indicate that higher ApoE levels are associated with increased risks of MACE, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure, independent of traditional cholesterol markers, particularly highlighting the significance of concurrent elevations in ApoE and triglycerides as a potential high-risk phenotype for cardiovascular events.

Management of salt-sensitive hypertension in clinical settings: how should we approach it?

May 8, 2026

The authors aim to address the challenges in diagnosing and managing salt-sensitive hypertension, which is a significant factor in uncontrolled hypertension. They explore the complex interplay of various determinants, such as age, genetic factors, and comorbid conditions, that influence sodium turnover and blood pressure regulation. The review provides insights into the underlying pathophysiology and offers guidance on improving clinical approaches to effectively manage this condition.

Bleeding-Related Interactions Between DOACs and Cardiovascular Drugs: Insights from FDA adverse event reporting system

May 7, 2026

This study aimed to identify bleeding-related drug interactions between direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and cardiovascular medications in patients undergoing polypharmacy, utilizing data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System. The authors found 15 significant DOAC-drug combinations associated with increased bleeding risk, particularly involving diuretics and specific cardiovascular drugs, highlighting the importance of considering polypharmacy in DOAC selection and monitoring for bleeding events.

Addressing Racism as a Clinical Competence: Robert Wilson, Jr. (1867-1946)

May 7, 2026

This paper explores how Robert Wilson Jr. addressed systemic racism and health inequities during his tenure as dean of the Medical College of the State of South Carolina. The authors aim to highlight Wilson's contributions to public health by using empirical data to challenge prevailing racist narratives and advocate for social determinants of health, ultimately framing the discussion around the importance of recognizing racism as a clinical competence in medical education.

A retrospective study of the usefulness of pleural effusion and blood indicators and ratios in detecting benign and malignant pleural effusion

May 7, 2026

This study aimed to identify effective biomarkers and ratios in serum and pleural fluid that can differentiate between benign and malignant pleural effusion. The authors found that pleural fluid lactate dehydrogenase, total protein, adenosine deaminase, and glucose were significant indicators, with specific ratios showing high diagnostic efficiency. The identified ratios of pleural fluid total protein to serum adenosine deaminase and pleural fluid lactate dehydrogenase to serum adenosine deaminase demonstrated promising sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing malignant pleural effusion.

On a Platform in Chhattisgarh

May 5, 2026

The article "On a Platform in Chhattisgarh" by Yogesh S Salphale explores the healthcare landscape and challenges faced in Chhattisgarh, India. The author aims to address how local platforms can improve healthcare delivery and access in this region. Further details on specific questions or findings are not provided in the abstract.

Use of Complementary Health Approaches and Research Interests Among Older Adults in the COSMOS Trial

Apr 26, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the prevalence and patterns of complementary health approaches (CHA) usage among older adults participating in the COSMOS trial, as well as their interest in CHA research participation. They found that a significant majority of participants reported using CHA, particularly spiritual practices and manual therapies, and that those with a history of falls or depression were more likely to engage in these approaches. The study highlights the need for further research to address evidence gaps regarding the safety and public health implications of CHA, particularly in diverse and underserved populations.

Changes in High-Sensitivity Troponin I Dynamics Pre and Post Parturition are Phenotype Specific

Apr 26, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the dynamics of high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-cTnI) levels before and after delivery in women with different pregnancy phenotypes, specifically preeclampsia, hypertension, and normotensive controls. Their findings indicate that while hs-cTnI levels increase significantly post-delivery, the rise is most pronounced in preeclampsia, suggesting that delivery acts as a physiological "stress test" for cardiovascular health, with implications for maternal morbidity and future cardiovascular risk.

Electronic Alert-Based Computerized Decision Support for Detection of Chronic Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: The CKD-DETECT Randomized Trial

Apr 24, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an electronic alert-based computerized decision support (CDS) system in increasing the screening for chronic kidney disease (CKD) through urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) testing in patients with type 2 diabetes. The CKD-DETECT trial found that the alert significantly increased UACR testing rates compared to a control group, although it did not result in a notable increase in new CKD diagnoses or referrals to nephrologists. Overall, the study suggests that alert-based CDS can enhance early detection of elevated albuminuria in this patient population.