In a collection of 2018 press releases, University of Utah Health and various researchers announced several medical breakthroughs and organizational updates. The announcements covered topics ranging from genetic research for polycystic ovary syndrome and suicide risk to new health partnerships and academic honors.
Researchers identified genes associated with polycystic ovary syndrome through the largest genomic study of its kind to date, conducted by the International PCOS Consortium. Additionally, researchers at University of Utah Health identified four gene changes occurring more frequently in people who died by suicide, which may indicate increased risk in vulnerable individuals.
In the field of neurobiology, Jason Shepherd, Ph.D., an assistant professor of Neurobiology and Anatomy at University of Utah Health, received $2.5 million from the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative to study Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers at University of Utah Health also investigated the connection between autism symptoms and sustained brain connections, and found that ADHD patients may have an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s or Parkinson-like diseases.
University of Utah Health announced several initiatives and recognitions, including the creation of Family Planning Elevated, a statewide contraception initiative funded in part by a $4 million grant. The University of Utah Hospital also received the 2018 HealthInsight Quality Award and was named a winner of the Vizient Bernard A. Birnbaum, MD, Quality Leadership Award for the ninth consecutive year.
Other notable developments included the White House naming University of Utah bioethicist Maureen Condic to a six-year term on the National Science Board. Furthermore, Silicon Slopes and University of Utah Health Plans announced a partnership, with the latter serving as the exclusive health partner for Silicon Slopes.
Additional research highlighted in the 2018 releases included findings on the link between air pollution and increased miscarriage risk along the Wasatch Front, the identification of a genetic risk factor for erectile dysfunction, and a study showing that up to 80 percent of surveyed individuals have lied to their doctors regarding health information.
