News from NYU Langone Health
NYU Gastroenterologist on Norovirus Surge and Shingles Vaccine's Potential Link to Dementia
WNYW-TV (New York, NY)
NYU gastroenterologist Rabia A. De Latour, MD, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, director of Endoscopy, Bellevue Hospital at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, addressed the early surge in norovirus, stressing that frequent hand washing is the best defense against the highly contagious stomach bug. She also discussed a new study suggesting an association between the shingles vaccine and a slightly lower risk of dementia. Dr. De Latour cautioned that this link is not yet proven causation and that the best-known dementia prevention methods remain a healthy diet, physical activity, and social engagement.
12/03/2025
New Hearing Aid Company, Foretell, Brings in Steve Martin and Others as Fans
WIRED Magazine
A new hearing aid company, Fortell, contracted researchers from NYU Langone Health’s audiology and neuroscience departments to consult on a blind experiment comparing its AI-powered device to a competitor. The study consulted with Mario Svirsky, PhD, the Noel L. Cohen Professor of Hearing Science at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, director of Research, Cochlear Implant Program. The results showed that Fortell's device gave users 18.9 times higher odds of understanding speech in challenging multi-talker environments compared to the market's top AI hearing aids. Svirsky called the results 'overwhelming' and the most categorical he has seen in his career.
12/03/2025
Achilles tendon injuries are on the rise. Experts explain the reasons why
CNN
Achilles tendon injuries are reportedly on the rise, particularly among people 40 and older who engage in explosive-style workouts. The article explores the reasons for this increase, risk factors, and prevention methods. Michael J. Alaia, MD, associate professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, associate director of Sports Medicine Fellowship Program, explains that the Achilles tendon is critical for walking, running, and jumping. He notes that men between 35 and 50 are especially susceptible and advises stretching, rest between workouts, and proper hydration to minimize risk. Other risk factors mentioned include aging, obesity, and certain antibiotics.
12/03/2025
Shingles Vaccine May Help Slow Dementia, New Study Finds
U.S. News and World Report
A new Stanford University study published in the journal Cell found that adults who received the shingles vaccine were less likely to develop dementia. Among those already with the condition, vaccination was linked to a lower risk of dying from it. The findings are based on health data from over 282,500 older adults in Wales. Commenting on the results, Joel Salinas, MD, MBA, Lulu P. and David J. Levidow Assistant Professor of Neurology in the Department of Neurology at NYU Langone Health, said the results are promising but not yet definitive proof that vaccination should be done solely for dementia risk reduction.
12/02/2025
This Is the One Test Women Can’t Afford To Skip
Katie Couric Media
DXA scans, traditionally used for osteoporosis screening in women 65 and older, are now being marketed as a wellness tool for younger people to measure body composition. The test uses low-dose radiation to measure bone-mineral density. However, the scan is underutilized, according to Miriam Bredella, MD, MBA, the Bernard and Irene Schwartz Professor of Radiology, vice chair, strategy, Department of Radiology, and associate dean, Translational Science. She states that only about one in five women who should get a DXA scan actually do. The test is recommended for all women 65 and older, along with younger women who have certain risk factors for bone density loss.
12/03/2025
The Simple Form of Exercise That Can Help You Age Better and Live Longer
SELF Magazine
Jumping exercises can improve bone health, balance, and agility, which are predictors of longevity. According to Natasha N. Desai, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Langone Health, co- director of Women's Sports Medicine Center, people naturally lose bone density starting around age 30, a decline that accelerates for women around age 45 to 50. The article explains that jump training can slow or halt this loss, particularly increasing bone density in the hip region. It also provides examples of effective jumping exercises and safety considerations for those with certain health conditions.
12/03/2025
Skilled Nursing News (SNN)
In an interview, Matthew Glenn, MD, MS, clinical instructor at the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn, discusses the partnership between NYU Langone Health’s Rusk Rehabilitation and Centers Health Care. He explains how the collaboration, which began in 2020, brings an onsite physician model to skilled nursing facilities like Amsterdam Nursing Center. This model has improved patient outcomes, increased discharge goal rates, and reduced hospital readmissions. Dr. Glenn, who trained at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, notes the model enhances communication and provides staff with immediate clinical guidance, setting a new standard for hospital and skilled nursing facility integration.
12/03/2025
Neurologists Warn These 7 Foods Are Silently Destroying Your Brain Health
BuzzFeed
Neurologists are warning against seven common foods that can negatively impact brain health, including soda, beer, and french fries. Shae Datta, MD, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Neurology and co-director of the NYU Langone Concussion Center, advises avoiding margarine because it contains trans fats, which are harmful to the brain's blood vessels. Citing a study from the journal Neurology, she notes that high levels of a common trans fat were linked to a higher likelihood of developing dementia in older adults. Other foods mentioned by experts include protein powders, cannabis-infused foods, and some decaf coffees.
12/03/2025
Fiber, Bacteria Likely Influence Methotrexate Response in RA
Medscape
Three studies presented at the American College of Rheumatology 2025 Annual Meeting suggest that fiber and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) may improve patient response to methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis. A study by Kaci French, MD, at NYU Langone Health found that butyrate supplementation in conjunction with a high-quality diet increased methotrexate efficacy. The researchers noted that changes in SCFAs after supplementation could be a potential marker of methotrexate response. Another study found that dietary fiber supplements also enhanced the drug's effectiveness, suggesting the gut-immune axis is a novel therapeutic target.
12/04/2025
What to Ask Before Your First Cosmetic Procedure
Allure
In an interview, Doris J. Day, MD, clinical associate professor in The Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU Langone Health, discusses her philosophy on cosmetic injectables. She emphasizes the importance of a proper assessment that goes beyond surface-level flaws, focusing on the patient's motivations and natural facial structure. Dr. Day advises that the goal is to enhance beauty, not just erase wrinkles, and to maintain a natural look. She recommends patients prepare for consultations by bringing old photos, writing down questions, and understanding their budget, while also being wary of practitioners who apply pressure to receive treatment.
12/03/2025
