Osteopathic physicians' numbers are on the increase | VCOM study looks at adolescent mental health and alcohol, tobacco | Professor wins NSF grant to study swallowing in mammals
Osteopathic physicians work closely with patients, take a holistic approach and recognize the important role of a doctor's hands in diagnosis and treatment, according to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine. The number of osteopathic physicians in the US has grown by 81% in the past 10 years.
An Early Assurance Program created by Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Wesson, Miss., educates students about osteopathic medicine while creating a pathway for admission to MSUCOM. Michael Henderson, DO, studied at Co-Lin before attending MSUCOM, inspiring the program and establishing a scholarship for students in the program.
Adolescent suicide attempts during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with alcohol and tobacco use, according to a study presented at the Osteopathic Medical Education Conference. The results "demonstrate that it is extremely important for primary care physicians to ask their adolescent patients about the topics of alcohol use, tobacco use and suicidal thoughts or attempts," said researcher Caleb Clemons, a medical student at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Clemons worked with Theresa McCann, PhD, retired discipline chair for epidemiology, community and public health, and preventive medicine.
Susan Williams, PhD, a professor of anatomy at the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, has been awarded a three-year, $440,379 grant from the NSF to explore the evolution of swallowing in mammals. Williams will study the biomechanics of the hyoid and pharynx and anatomical variation among mammals, which could increase understanding of human swallowing disorders.
A team of six students including Naomi Brady, who is now a medical student at the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, developed custom dialysis cuffs and a T-shaped applicator sleeve to improve peritoneal dialysis for newborns as their senior project at Texas A&M University. "Since neonates are the ones who use peritoneal dialysis most frequently and are completely reliant on it, they need a really good solution," Brady said.
Patients may report symptoms of gastroparesis when taking a glucagon-like peptide-1, such as semaglutide, as delayed gastric emptying is a mechanism of the drug. To evaluate patients with distressing symptoms while taking GLP-1s, start with a general review, ask in-depth questions about GI symptoms, and look at diet, hydration and the possibility of illnesses to rule out serious concerns, said experts from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Today, more than 400 osteopathic leaders, students, faculty members, residents and physicians are participating in AACOM Advocacy Day. More than 200 meetings are scheduled with U.S. Senators and Representatives. "There is no more powerful or effective voice when it comes to speaking to Members of Congress than their own constituents," said AACOM President and CEO Robert A. Cain, DO. Learn more about AACOM Advocacy Day and take action with us!
