In the largest Nordic study to date concerning oesophageal cancer surgery, the researchers found clear evidence that decompression with a nasogastric tube is associated with less serious complications. Their results challenge a trend of declining use of the nasogastric tube after major surgical procedures. The study was led from Uppsala University and has now been published in Lancet Regional Health Europe.

The aftermath of a disaster – whether natural or man-made – can be difficult. Survivors often face destroyed homes, missing loved ones and financial difficulty. In the midst of chaos, mental health often moves to the back burner. After a disaster, around 5% to 10% of people will develop significant anxiety, depression and sleep problems – yet only around 25% to 30% of those who develop these conditions will seek help. Researchers at MUSC created an app designed to help people virutally and have found that the team’s internet educational and self-help videos and resources were incredibly impactful with adolescents, reducing their risks of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and depression. These findings influenced the development of the Bounce Back Now app, intended for survivors of disasters. These survivors were able to access it for symptom management tools that are designed to have short- (e.g., relaxation- or mindfulness-based) and long-term (e.g., skills-based) benefit.