Seamus Sreenan

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This study examined how irregular breakfast eating affects people with type 2 diabetes, looking specifically at their health markers and sleep patterns. Researchers found that 22.7% of participants had irregular breakfast habits, and these individuals had higher blood sugar levels (HbA1c) and higher diastolic blood pressure compared to those who ate breakfast regularly. This matters because it highlights the importance of consistent breakfast eating in managing diabetes and improving overall health. Who this helps: This benefits patients with type 2 diabetes.

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This study looked at how people with type 2 diabetes in Ireland feel about receiving care at a community center, known as the Dublin North West hub. Out of 40 participants, 35 (87.5%) were satisfied with their care, and most (85%) preferred managing their diabetes with their regular doctor instead of in a hospital. This matters because it shows that community-based care can be effective and that people want to receive support close to home. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes who prefer local care options.

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This study looked at how Ireland's first community hub for diabetes care operated in its first year, focusing on who was referred, their characteristics, and how quickly they were seen. It found that 204 people were referred to the hub, with most coming from hospital waiting lists, and the average wait time for an appointment was 8.6 weeks. Importantly, the hub helped reduce the number of patients waiting for diabetes appointments at a local hospital by 61%, showing the hub's effectiveness in managing care and suggesting that more people might benefit from the community diabetes program. Who this helps: This benefits patients with type 2 diabetes and their primary care doctors.

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This study looked at how comfortable people are with traditional blood tests for diabetes compared to non-invasive methods, involving 232 participants. It found that 84.1% preferred non-invasive testing, especially among those without a diabetes diagnosis. Notably, children and adults who had never experienced a blood test favored non-invasive options, with joint mobility measurements being the most popular method. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those with a fear of needles or who are new to diabetes testing.

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This study looked at how machine learning can help predict diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), which are complications of diabetes that can lead to serious health issues. They reviewed 18 reports and found that machine learning methods could accurately identify healthy skin versus DFUs in up to 98% of cases, and predict their progression with accuracy rates ranging from 64.6% to 99.32%. This is important because early detection and proper management of DFUs can improve healing and prevent further complications. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes at risk of developing foot ulcers.

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This study looked at how much Irish diabetes patients with a high risk of foot problems knew about proper foot care and how well they practiced it. Out of 143 participants, many showed poor understanding and often engaged in risky behavior, such as not choosing the right shoes, even after receiving education on foot care. These findings highlight a critical need for better ways to teach high-risk diabetes patients about foot care to prevent serious foot complications. Who this helps: This helps diabetes patients and healthcare providers focused on diabetic foot care.

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This study looked at how certain variations in hemoglobin can affect the accuracy of the HbA1c test, which is commonly used to monitor and diagnose diabetes. It highlighted that these hemoglobin variants can lead to misleading results, making it crucial for doctors to understand this problem to ensure proper diabetes management. This matters because reliant on incorrect test results can affect treatment decisions and patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by ensuring more accurate diabetes diagnosis and management.

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This study looked at whether doing an annual heart test (an electrocardiogram or ECG) can help find hidden heart issues in people with diabetes. Out of 312 people tested, only three had new heart problems found, which means the ECG did not effectively identify silent heart disease in this group. As a result, the researchers recommend that an ECG should be done when someone is first diagnosed with diabetes, rather than every year unless they show symptoms. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with diabetes by refining their screening process for heart disease.

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This study looked at a program created by students to teach other medical students about racism in healthcare and how to fight against it. Out of 543 invited students, 63 participated, and the results showed that many students—60%—had never learned about racism in medicine before. After the program, students significantly shifted their understanding of race issues and reported feeling more confident in advocating against racism, with 69% wanting to learn more on the topic. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and future physicians by equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to address racism in healthcare.

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This study looked at a patient who developed blurry vision after receiving testosterone injections for low testosterone levels. After switching to a daily testosterone gel, his vision problems stopped. This is important because it highlights that some patients on testosterone replacement therapy might experience vision issues, and changing how the testosterone is delivered can prevent these side effects. Who this helps: Patients undergoing testosterone replacement therapy.

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This study looked at whether people of Irish descent who are newly diagnosed with diabetes should be routinely screened for hereditary hemochromatosis, a genetic condition that causes iron overload. Out of 556 patients tested, only 2.3% had high iron levels, and of those, 1.8% actually had hereditary hemochromatosis. This finding suggests that routine screening for this condition in diabetes patients may not be needed. Who this helps: This helps doctors by clarifying when to screen for hereditary hemochromatosis in diabetes patients.

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This study looked at how changes in sleep timing affect the health of middle-aged adults with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that those with diabetes reported more irregular sleep patterns but didn’t show significant differences in sleep timing when compared to healthy adults. They also discovered that in people with diabetes, having irregular sleep patterns was linked to higher HbA1c levels, which indicates poorer blood sugar control. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes by highlighting the importance of consistent sleep habits for better health management.

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This study looked at why adults with Type 1 diabetes in Ireland have trouble getting insulin pumps, which provide continuous insulin delivery. Researchers found that awareness of insulin pumps and the overall structure and resources of diabetes care services were major hurdles, along with personal attitudes and motivations, leading to low use of these devices. Improving access to insulin pumps is important because it can help manage diabetes better and reduce differences in care between regions. Who this helps: This benefits adults with Type 1 diabetes and healthcare providers.

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This study looked at patients in an Irish hospital during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and identified factors that were linked to worse outcomes, such as higher rates of death or needing intensive care. Out of 257 hospitalized patients, 39 died (15%), and 31 patients (12%) required ICU care, with 23% of those in ICU dying. Key findings showed that being overweight or obese, living in a care home, being older, and experiencing socioeconomic deprivation increased the risk of death, while those from minority ethnic backgrounds were more likely to need intensive care. Who this helps: This information benefits healthcare providers and policymakers in managing COVID-19 risks among vulnerable populations.

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This study looked at a rare type of cancer called adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) in a 30-year-old man who first noticed swelling in his testicle. Doctors discovered a large 11 cm tumor on his adrenal gland, which turned out to be cancer, along with signs of sarcoidosis, another rare condition. The findings show that sometimes unrelated health issues can appear together, and doctors should consider all possibilities when diagnosing unusual symptoms, as the two conditions may be linked. Who this helps: This information is beneficial for doctors and patients dealing with rare diseases.

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This study looked at how volunteering in intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic affected medical students' skills and career choices. It involved 26 students who helped care for COVID-19 patients and shared their experiences through a survey. The findings revealed that this volunteering improved their communication, teamwork, and compassion, which are crucial for their future careers, but some students also faced challenges and stress. Who this helps: This research benefits medical students and those involved in their training by highlighting the importance of support during challenging volunteer experiences.

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This study examined how social jetlag (the mismatch between our body clocks and social schedules) affects blood sugar control in 252 adults with type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that greater social jetlag was linked to higher levels of HbA1c, a key marker of blood sugar, with a notable effect seen in those experiencing more than 90 minutes of jetlag. These findings highlight social jetlag as an important factor that could influence diabetes management. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes looking to improve their blood sugar control.

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This study looked at three patients with diabetes who developed sudden nerve issues after improving their blood sugar control. One patient had painful nerve problems after starting insulin; another experienced weakness and pain shortly after adjusting medication; the third had eye issues following a treatment change. All three cases showed an important link between better blood sugar management and new nerve complications, which hasn't been clearly emphasized before, highlighting the need for doctors to be aware of these potential issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes and their doctors.

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This study looked at how accessible continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy is for adults with type 1 diabetes in Ireland. It found that while 71% of the 22,321 adults with type 1 diabetes received care from clinics that offered training for CSII, only 10% actually used it, with some clinics lacking any CSII support because of staff shortages. This matters because improving access could help more patients manage their diabetes effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 1 diabetes who need better access to insulin delivery options.

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This study looked at how common type 1 diabetes is in Ireland by using pharmacy data from 2016. They found that there were about 20,081 people with type 1 diabetes, which means 0.42% of the population had it that year. Most cases were in adults, with 17,053 adults affected, and 1,527 new cases were reported, showing that about 32 people per 100,000 developed the disease, especially being more common in men and varying by region. Who this helps: This information benefits patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers planning diabetes care in Ireland.

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This study looked at how many people in Ireland with type 1 diabetes use a treatment called continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in 2016. Out of over 20,000 people with type 1 diabetes, only 10.5% were using CSII, with children and adolescents showing much higher use at 34.7% compared to just 6.8% in adults. The findings highlight a big difference in usage based on age and location, showing a need to identify why adults are less likely to use this potentially beneficial therapy. Who this helps: Patients with type 1 diabetes, especially adults.

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This study examined a case of a 52-year-old man with advanced melanoma who developed severe thyroid problems and type 1 diabetes after receiving the cancer drug pembrolizumab. The patient experienced dangerously high blood sugar and ketoacidosis, which required intensive care to treat. The findings reveal that while type 1 diabetes is rare with this treatment, it can happen, highlighting the need for regular blood sugar monitoring in patients using pembrolizumab to catch issues early. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing treatment with pembrolizumab and their doctors.

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This study looked at the reasons why patients were referred for thyroid ultrasound scans at a hospital in Ireland between 2012 and 2016. Out of 318 patients, most had scans for valid reasons, like checking known thyroid issues (34.3%) or new neck lumps (33.3%), but about 19% had scans for reasons that weren’t necessary, resulting in follow-up procedures for nodules that likely wouldn’t cause problems. This matters because it reveals that a lot of unnecessary tests and follow-ups happen, leading to wasted resources and patient anxiety. Who this helps: This helps patients by potentially reducing unnecessary procedures and stress related to thyroid health concerns.

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This study looked at a program called PRISM, which teaches first-year medical students about quality improvement (QI) in healthcare. The researchers found that after going through the program, students showed significant increases in their understanding and skills related to QI, with nearly all participants recommending it to their peers. This is important because training future doctors in QI can help reduce medical errors and improve patient care. Who this helps: This benefits medical students and ultimately patients by preparing doctors to provide better healthcare.

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This study examined how the drug dapsone affects HbA1c levels in patients with diabetes. Researchers found that three patients had falsely low HbA1c results due to the effects of dapsone, which can cause changes in the red blood cells, making it look like their blood sugar was better controlled than it actually was. This matters because relying on these misleading HbA1c results could lead to inadequate diabetes management and treatment decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients with diabetes who are being treated with dapsone and their doctors.

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This study looked at how our body's natural 24-hour rhythms, called circadian rhythms, affect our health and illness, particularly in mental health and metabolism. It found that when people live a lifestyle that goes against these rhythms—like staying active at night—it can raise their risk for diseases and affect how well treatments work. Understanding these patterns can help doctors create better treatment plans that align with patients' natural rhythms. Who this helps: This benefits patients with psychiatric and metabolic conditions.

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This research studied a new type of patch, called a microneedle patch, designed to deliver insulin through the skin in a controlled way. The patch uses tiny, bullet-shaped needles that swell after being inserted into the skin, allowing it to stick better and release insulin slowly—60% of the insulin was released over 12 hours while keeping its effectiveness. This method can help manage blood sugar levels more effectively for people with diabetes by ensuring a steady release of insulin. Who this helps: Patients with diabetes.

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This study looked at whether taking insulin glargine, a type of insulin therapy, affects how active people are during their free time or their TV watching habits. Out of over 12,500 people with blood sugar problems, those on insulin gained about 1.66 kg in weight, while those receiving standard care lost about 0.65 kg, but there was no significant change in physical activity or TV time between the two groups. This is important because it shows that insulin therapy does not reduce recreational activity levels, even with some weight gain. Who this helps: This helps patients with dysglycaemia who need insulin therapy.

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Researchers examined a 60-year-old woman who showed signs of excessive male hormone levels, specifically male pattern baldness and hair growth in unusual areas. Her testosterone level was significantly high at 21 nmol/L, much higher than the normal range of 0.4-1.7 nmol/L. A scan revealed a large tumor on her right ovary, which was confirmed to be a rare Leydig cell tumor; after surgery to remove it, her testosterone levels returned to normal. Who this helps: This helps women with symptoms of high testosterone, as it can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment.

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This study looked at whether medical students could help hospital patients quit smoking by providing brief counseling sessions. Out of 67 smokers in the hospital, those who received help from medical students were more motivated to quit, with a significant number showing signs of quitting compared to those who only got usual care. This is important because it shows that involving medical students in smoking cessation efforts could improve patient outcomes and enhance the students' training as future healthcare providers. Who this helps: Patients trying to quit smoking and medical students looking to gain experience in patient care.

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Researchers studied two types of insulin—insulin degludec and insulin glargine—over 78 weeks in patients with advanced type 2 diabetes who were already using other insulin therapies. They found that insulin degludec led to 24% fewer low blood sugar episodes overall and 31% fewer during the night compared to insulin glargine, while both types of insulin helped maintain similar blood sugar control. This is important because it shows that patients can manage their diabetes effectively with less risk of dangerous lows by using insulin degludec. Who this helps: Patients with advanced type 2 diabetes.

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This study focused on how night-time blood pressure levels affect the risk of heart-related deaths in diabetic patients. Researchers found that higher night-time blood pressure (averaging 131.2 mmHg for diabetics, compared to 126.4 mmHg for non-diabetics) was linked to a 32% increased risk of cardiovascular death for every 10 mmHg increase. This is important because it highlights night-time blood pressure as a crucial factor in assessing heart risks for people with diabetes. Who this helps: This helps diabetic patients and their doctors manage heart health more effectively.

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This research looked at how insulin and liraglutide, both treatments for type 2 diabetes, affect a protein called osteoprotegerin (OPG) and the development of blood vessel calcification. The study found that insulin greatly decreased OPG production and increased markers for calcification in lab tests, while liraglutide did not have these effects. In human patients, insulin treatment resulted in lower OPG levels but showed a trend toward increased calcification in their arteries. Who this helps: This research helps doctors understand the risks associated with insulin treatment in diabetic patients.

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This study looked at how young adults with Type 1 diabetes, aged 23 to 30, manage their condition while working. Researchers interviewed 35 people and found that most struggled because of tight schedules and unpredictable work environments, which made it hard for them to take breaks or exercise. It's important to create better support systems for these individuals, so they can effectively manage their diabetes at work. Who this helps: This helps young adults with Type 1 diabetes and their employers.

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This study looked at how frequently people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes experience mild low blood sugar events (non-severe hypoglycemic events or NSHEs) and how this affects their chances of having severe low blood sugar events (severe hypoglycemic events or SHEs). Researchers found that for people with Type 1 diabetes, those who had 1 to 4 mild events had nearly double the odds of having a severe event, and those with 5 or more mild events had over twice the odds (odds ratio of 2.13). In those with Type 2 diabetes, the risk was even higher, with odds ratios of 10.83 for 1-4 mild events and 15.36 for 5 or more. This matters because reducing the number of mild low blood sugar events could help prevent more serious complications in diabetes management. Who this helps: This helps patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

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This study compared the performance of medical students in a four-year Graduate Entry Programme (GEP) with those in a traditional five or six-year Direct Entry Programme (DEP) in Ireland. Researchers found that GEP students scored better in their final two years of exams, with improved outcomes observed consistently between 2008 and 2013, highlighting that GEP students performed better regardless of their academic backgrounds. This matters because it shows that the shorter GEP effectively trains students to the same or even higher standards as the traditional program, making medical education more accessible. Who this helps: This benefits prospective medical students and educational institutions.

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This study compared two treatments for type 2 diabetes: once-weekly exenatide and once or twice-daily insulin detemir. It found that 44.1% of patients taking exenatide met the target blood sugar and weight loss goals, compared to only 11.4% of those on insulin. Additionally, patients on exenatide had better blood sugar control and lost an average of 2.7 kg, while those on insulin gained weight. Who this helps: This benefits patients with type 2 diabetes who are struggling to manage their blood sugar and weight.

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This study looked at a case of silent myocardial ischemia (SMI) in a patient with diabetes, where heart damage occurred without typical symptoms. The patient had a normal heart enzyme level upon admission, but it rose to 10.7 ng/ml the next day, indicating heart stress. The findings highlight that SMI is common in diabetes patients and can lead to serious health problems, making early detection crucial for avoiding severe outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with diabetes and their doctors by emphasizing the need for regular heart monitoring.

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This study looked at exercise habits in 145 obese patients with type 2 diabetes in Ireland and found that 47.6% of them did not meet the recommended exercise of 150 minutes per week. Those who did not exercise enough had a higher average body weight and reported common barriers like lack of time and physical discomfort. Understanding these barriers is important for doctors to help improve the health of their patients by encouraging more physical activity. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type 2 diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers studied the weight loss concerns of young women with type 1 diabetes and found that many of them worry about managing their weight, while some develop serious eating disorders. Out of 35 young adults interviewed, six women had severe eating issues in the past, which took years to overcome, and many still deal with unhealthy weight loss urges. This matters because eating disorders can seriously affect health and may go unnoticed by doctors, highlighting the need for better screening and support for these women. Who this helps: This helps young women with type 1 diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the emotional challenges faced by young adults with Type 1 diabetes, focusing on people aged 23 to 30. Researchers interviewed 35 individuals and found that many experienced significant stress related to managing their condition, particularly due to feelings of self-consciousness, difficulties in daily management, struggles with healthcare systems, and worries about their future, including pregnancy. It's crucial for diabetes care to include support systems like healthcare discussions, education programs, and peer support to help reduce this distress. Who this helps: This helps young adults with Type 1 diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how a drug called prostaglandin F(2α) (PGF2α) affects fat cells related to Graves' orbitopathy, a condition that can cause bulging eyes (exophthalmos). The researchers found that PGF2α significantly reduced the growth and fat formation in these cells, with human cells from Graves' patients showing a greater sensitivity to the drug than mouse cells. Specifically, the growth rate of fat cells from Graves' patients was about 5.36 days, but PGF2α increased their doubling time, indicating slower growth. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with Graves' orbitopathy.

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This study looked at how sleep quality and duration affect cholesterol and blood sugar levels in white people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers found that those with poorer sleep quality had higher levels of bad cholesterol and blood pressure, while those who slept for too long or too short also had higher cholesterol levels. This is important because managing sleep could be a key part of controlling diabetes and reducing heart health risks. Who this helps: Patients with type 2 diabetes and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the experiences of young adults aged 23 to 30 with Type 1 diabetes in Ireland and found that while many are satisfied with their care, significant problems exist, such as long waiting times and a lack of proper support services like education and psychological care. Out of the participants, 35 young adults and 13 healthcare professionals highlighted that many rural areas are especially underserved, and healthcare funding cuts have worsened the situation. Improving diabetes care is essential to ensure these young adults receive consistent and comprehensive support, which is crucial for managing their condition effectively. Who this helps: This benefits young adults with diabetes and their healthcare providers.