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ROCHESTER, Minn. — An artificial intelligence (AI) model developed by Mayo Clinic and Ultromics, Ltd., an AI echocardiography company based in Oxford, England, is highly accurate in screening for cardiac amyloidosis, a rare and progressive type of heart failure, according to a new study. The model is the first and only AI tool of its kind.

Researchers from Mayo Clinic and Ultromics, with investigators at the University of Chicago Medicine and collaborators around the world, validated and tested the model on a large and multiethnic patient population and compared its abilities to other diagnostic methods for cardiac amyloidosis.

Their findings, published in the European Heart Journal, show that the AI model was highly accurate, with 85% sensitivity (correctly identifying those with the disease) and 93% specificity (correctly identifying those without the disease). Using a single echocardiography videoclip, the model was effective across all major types of cardiac amyloidosis and distinguished it from other conditions with similar characteristics.

Cardiac amyloidosis is a life-threatening condition where an abnormal protein, called amyloid, builds up in the heart, causing it to stiffen and not work properly. It is often missed because the symptoms and imaging features can be similar to other heart conditions. However, early diagnosis is crucial because new drug therapies are now available that can slow or stop the disease’s progression.

This work builds on the previous experience of Mayo Clinic and Ultromics in developing an AI echocardiography model to detect heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance in 2022. HFpEF is a common type of heart failure, associated with high morbidity and mortality, but can be challenging to diagnose. An estimated 15% of patients with HFpEF have cardiac amyloidosis.

“This AI model is a breakthrough tool that can help us identify patients earlier so they can receive the treatment they need,” says Patricia Pellikka, M.D., a cardiologist at Mayo Clinic and past director of the Mayo Clinic Echocardiography Lab in Rochester. “We found that AI performed better than traditional clinical and transthoracic echo-based screening methods, providing clinicians with stronger insights on which to base decisions for further confirmation tests. New treatments are available for cardiac amyloidosis but are most effective if administered early in the course of the disease.” Dr. Pellikka is senior author of the study.

The amyloid AI model is FDA-cleared and is currently being used at multiple centers in the U.S. Dr. Pellikka says she looks forward to applying this technology in the clinical practice at Mayo Clinic.

This study was partially supported by a grant from Ultromics and Dr. Pellikka is supported as the Betty Knight Scripps-George M. Gura, Jr., M.D. Professor of Cardiovascular Diseases Clinical Research at Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic has a financial interest in this technology and will use any revenue it receives to support its not-for-profit mission in patient care, education and research.

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About Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization committed to innovation in clinical practice, education and research, and providing compassion, expertise and answers to everyone who needs healing. Visit the Mayo Clinic News Network for additional Mayo Clinic news.

Media contact:

• Terri Malloy, Mayo Clinic Communications, [email protected]

The post AI-enhanced echocardiography improves early detection of amyloid buildup in the heart appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

Wearable technology is transforming how people track health, manage chronic conditions and personalize care. In this episode of Tomorrow’s Cure, experts reveal how these tools are reshaping healthcare. From detecting burnout in healthcare workers to predicting surgical recovery, the possibilities are expanding rapidly. Listen to learn how innovation in digital health is making care more proactive, accessible and tailored to every patient.

This week’s episode features insights from Dr. Arjun Athreya, electrical and computer engineer and senior associate consultant at Mayo Clinic; and Dr. Jeannie Bailey, associate professor of orthopedic surgery and director of physical function and biomechanics research core at the University of California, San Francisco. Both are leading innovative efforts to use wearables to drive meaningful improvements in patient care.

Wearables enable real-time interventions, allowing clinicians to respond immediately when a behavioral change is detected. By capturing data such as heart rate, energy expenditure and sleep patterns, these devices help personalize care for each patient. They also allow for long-term monitoring across weeks or months, offering insights that can help predict changes in a person’s health.

“The elegant science of trying to figure out how to use this data in a way that’s going to improve patient outcomes, I think is very difficult and more of it needs to be done,” says Dr. Bailey.

While wearables are increasingly popular among the general public, the next challenge lies in translating this commercial use into meaningful clinical outcomes.

“Any new patient walking through our door with a wearable device, we should be able to use that data and facilitate end measurement or prognostication, or prediction or diagnosis,” says Dr. Athreya. 

Wearables also empower patients by giving them tools to monitor their health so they can play a more active role in their care journey.

“This tracking really enables patients to take ownership and think about their own progress, and it gives them that feedback,” says Dr. Bailey. “They see how they’re doing better, they’re getting hopeful, and it’s definitely affecting them.” 

Additionally, the technology empowers clinicians to extend care beyond the walls of the clinic, reaching individuals and communities who may not have regular access to in-person care. Wearables offer a scalable solution that can help reduce health disparities more effectively than costly, hard-to-access clinic visits.

Wearable technology is unlocking new ways to improve patient outcomes. Tune in to the latest episode of Tomorrow’s Cure to explore the cutting-edge research driving this innovation. For more episodes and featured experts, visit tomorrowscure.com.

The post Tomorrow’s Cure: Keeping tabs on health with wearable tech appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Talking to loved ones about a recent head and neck cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Of course, there is no one “right” or “wrong” way to handle these conversations — or adjusting to your life with cancer. Everyone has their own pace, preferences and relationship patterns. But taking the time to consider your approach can help make these conversations more manageable.

If you have been diagnosed with a head and neck cancer, consider these tips to talk more openly with your loved ones.

Anxiety and fear are a natural response to a cancer diagnosis, says Eric Moore, M.D., chair of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and medical director, International, Mayo Clinic.

“People justifiably want to know what this diagnosis means for them. Am I going to live? Is it going to require aggressive treatment?” he says. “One of the first things I say is to take a breath. There are specialists that are passionate about and have studied your disease. And the vast majority of cancers that are encountered are treatable and very many of them are likely curable.”

The next step is to learn as much as you can about your cancer diagnosis. If possible, Dr. Moore recommends having a loved one accompany you to appointments and take notes. That way, both you and your loved one have the opportunity to fully process and discuss the information shared.

From there, Dr. Moore says it is important to understand that head and neck cancer isn‘t a specific diagnosis. Rather, head and neck cancer is a general category that describes many different types of cancer that impact the head and neck region. Cancers in the mouth, tongue, tonsils, pharynx (throat), larynx (throat box), nasal cavity and other areas are all considered types of head and neck cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma — a type of cancer that develops in the skin cells that line the lips, sinuses, and inner mouth and throat — is one of the most common types of head and neck cancer. However, the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer is on the rise in the United States. Often involving the tonsils and base of the tongue, oropharyngeal cancer is thought to be caused by exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection.

Given the variety of head and neck cancers, it is key to talk with your care team about the exact type of cancer, stage and treatment options available. Having a firm grasp of your cancer diagnosis can also help you determine what to share with loved ones moving forward.

Consider when and how to talk to loved ones about your head and neck cancer

Before you begin disclosing your diagnosis, it can be helpful to first consider the different relationships in your life. It may be helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• Who do you want to talk to? For many people, this may be a partner, parent or close friend — anyone important to you who can provide emotional support throughout your cancer journey.
• Who do you need to talk to? From a practical or logistical standpoint, certain people in your life may need to be informed of a diagnosis sooner rather than later. For example, a caregiver may need to speak to your care team on your behalf or an employer may need to accommodate your treatment schedule.
• Who can you talk to at a later time? When you first receive a diagnosis, there are some people in your life who may not need to be informed immediately, for both personal and practical reasons. For example, you can speak with more-distant relatives and friends, neighbors and coworkers when you feel ready to talk.

Once you have a better understanding of who you’d like to speak to and when, it’s a good idea to think about the best method of communication. For a friend or family member, you may choose to make a personal phone call or set aside time to meet in person. If you’re talking with a child about a cancer diagnosis, being as open and honest as possible about both the diagnosis and your feelings are good first steps. In other situations, a text message, letter, email or even social media post may feel more appropriate.

Each method comes with its own considerations — a personal conversation can feel affirming, but over time it may be exhausting to speak so intimately with everyone in your life. On the other hand, a social media post may require less time and emotional investment, but it may be a less personal or private option. To avoid emotional burnout or repeating yourself multiple times to multiple people, you also may choose to lean on the support of a loved one to inform extended family and friends. That way, they can inform your support network about your diagnosis, the best ways to support you and any specific requests you may have.

Most people know that it’s important to ask for help, but this is often easier said than done. To start, determine exactly what kind of help you need — be it logistical or emotional — and who exactly can provide it.

For example, if you can’t drive to your medical appointments or struggle with eating during treatment, consider asking a reliable friend to create a rideshare or meal prep schedule. By delegating this task, your loved ones have a tangible, consistent way to provide support and you can rest easier knowing certain tasks are taken care of.

Other times, you may need space to talk about your feelings and concerns. Think about the core message or emotion you’d like heard. Are you looking to vent? Do you want advice or reassurances? Before starting a conversation, stating the exact type of feedback and support that you’re looking for can ensure you get what you need.

“If you don’t have that kind of support network of family and friends, that doesn’t mean it’s nonexistent,” says Dr. Moore. “I encourage you to discuss your concerns during the initial consultation with your healthcare professional.” In many situations, there are a number of resources your care team can connect you with, including support groups, care coordinators and social work programs.

Finally, if you are experiencing sleep deprivation, feel overwhelmed or fatigued, or notice any difficulties with concentration and memory, Dr. Moore says these are early signs that you may need more support.

Learn more about head and neck cancers and find a clinical trial at Mayo Clinic. Join the Head and Neck Cancer Support Group on Mayo Clinic Connect, an online community moderated by Mayo Clinic for patients and caregivers.

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About Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization committed to innovation in clinical practice, education and research, and providing compassion, expertise and answers to everyone who needs healing. Visit the Mayo Clinic News Network for additional Mayo Clinic news.

Media contact:

• Sharon Theimer, Mayo Clinic Communications, [email protected]

The post How to talk to family and friends about a head and neck cancer diagnosis appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

ROCHESTER, Minn. — While immunosuppressive medications are critical to prevent rejection of transplant organs, they also come with plenty of downsides. They can cause harsh side effects, like headaches and tremors, and increase the risk for infection and cancer. But what if there was a way to prevent organ rejection without using these medications?

That goal fuels the work of Mark Stegall, M.D., a longtime Mayo Clinic transplant researcher. He leads a team of researchers developing pioneering therapies to prevent organ rejection without the need for immunosuppression. A recently published study in the American Journal of Transplantation is offering hope for patients.

Using stem cells to prevent organ rejection

Mayo Clinic participated in the multisite phase 3 clinical trial detailed in the study. The goal was to see whether people who simultaneously received both a kidney and stem cell transplant from a closely matched sibling could discontinue all immunosuppressive medications after a year. The results were promising. The study found that 75% of participants were able to stop taking the medication for more than two years. At Mayo Clinic, three patients participated, with two off immunosuppression medications for over three years and one on a low dose.

“I’ve been involved in transplant research for more than 30 years, and we’ve done quite a few amazing things. But in the scheme of things, this research is right at the very top. It’s been a goal — to be able to safely get transplant recipients off immunosuppression — for longer than I’ve been doing this. We’re very excited about it,” says Dr. Stegall, a co-author of the study.

The research being done across Mayo Clinic is part of a growing trend in transplant to explore ways to use cellular therapies to prevent organ rejection. It is also a cornerstone of Mayo Clinic’s Transforming Transplant Initiative, which has the bold goal of ensuring everyone who wants a transplant can get one and to make transplants more successful.

To qualify for the clinical trial, the transplant recipients and donors needed to be siblings whose tissue types closely matched. The donor agreed to donate their stem cells in addition to their kidney to their sibling. The recipient receives the transplant, undergoes radiation and then receives the stem cell transplant. The goal was to wean recipients off immunosuppression medication after a year.

‘Almost like the transplant didn’t happen’

For Minnesota native Mark Welter, the results have been better than he imagined. Four years ago, he needed a kidney transplant due to polycystic kidney disease, an inherited condition that causes cysts to grow on the kidneys. The Mayo Clinic patient volunteered to be a part of the clinical trial in hopes of not having to worry about immunosuppression medication the rest of his life. His younger sister Cindy Kendall immediately stepped forward to donate a kidney and her stem cells to help her brother.

“Being able to see him get off those medications has been amazing,” Cindy says. “He just gets to live his life to the fullest. He has been able to see both of his daughters get married and meet his grandchildren.”

Watch: Inteview with Mark Welter, Cindy Kendall and Dr. Mark Stegall

Mark has not taken immunosuppression medication for more than three years.

“I feel fantastic. I actually feel like I did before the transplant, which has been the greatest thing,” Mark says. “It’s almost like the transplant didn’t happen.”

There is still plenty of work to be done to advance this research. This clinical trial only involved siblings with closely matching tissue types. Researchers want to know if stem cell transplants can prevent rejection in recipients paired with a less closely matched donor.

“Even in closely matched siblings, immunosuppression is needed lifelong. We have seen stopping medications even at eight to 10 years post-transplant leads to rejection. Our goal is to find ways to reduce or stop immunosuppressive medications after transplant so patients can have longer lasting kidneys with fewer side effects,” says Andrew Bentall, M.B., Ch.B., M.D., a Mayo Clinic transplant nephrologist.

Journalists: Press kit, including b-roll, photos and interviews are available here. Clinical trial participants and Mayo researchers are available for interviews. Please contact [email protected] to schedule.

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About Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization committed to innovation in clinical practice, education and research, and providing compassion, expertise and answers to everyone who needs healing. Visit the Mayo Clinic News Network for additional Mayo Clinic news.

Media contact:

• Kelley Luckstein, Mayo Clinic Communications, [email protected]

The post (VIDEO) Eliminating the need for lifelong immunosuppressive medications for transplant patients appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I’ve taken up running again and decided to enter a half-marathon. I know I have to push myself to get ready for the race, but I don’t want to overdo it. What should I watch out for as I train?

ANSWER: We’re surrounded by warning signs — on the roads, at work, and on packaging and equipment. Your body sends warning signs, too. As your race date nears, it’s tempting to pull out all the stops. But that makes this a prime time to watch for warning signs of overtraining.

Overtraining or overuse injuries are any muscle, joint or bony injuries, such as tendinitis or a stress fracture, that result from repetitive trauma. Overuse injuries typically occur because of training or technique errors.

Runners are tenacious athletes. Pulling back and slowing down may be tough, but while some overtraining issues can be resolved with simple rest, others may evolve into more significant problems.

How overtraining and overuse injuries occur

Going too fast, exercising for too long or simply doing too much of one type of activity can strain your muscles and lead to an overuse injury. Improper technique also takes a toll on your body. For example, if you use poor form while running or doing strength-training exercises, you may overload certain areas of the body, which can cause an overuse injury.

Thankfully, most overuse injuries are avoidable. Try these suggestions to prevent them:

• Use proper form and gear.
  Whether you’re starting a new activity or have been playing a sport for a long time, taking lessons can help ensure you’re using the correct technique. Talk with an expert about proper form, equipment and gear fit to help ensure success.
• Pace yourself.
  Rely on your training program, which should spread your aerobic activity throughout the week. Take time to warm up before physical activity and cool down afterward.
• Gradually increase your activity level.
  When changing the intensity or duration of physical activity, do so gradually. Try not to increase anything by more than about 10% per week. Your body needs time to adapt to the new stress.
• Mix up your routine.
  Instead of focusing on one type of exercise, build variety into your training program. Doing a variety of low-impact activities prevents overuse injuries and allows your body to use different muscle groups.

Overtraining signs and what to do 

It can be hard to know when you’re pushing through your training for continuous improvement and when you’re moving into overtraining. Your feet and legs take a pounding as you run mile after mile, so watch for these issues: 

• Callous blistering and broken toenails are common overtraining problems. 
• Early morning pain on the sole of your foot can be a sign of plantar fasciitis. 
• Tendinitis can leave you with pain in the back of your ankle or in the front of your shins, also called shin splints.

Typically, these can be treated with rest and medication to relieve pain and inflammation. Slow down your training. Return to the level you were at before the problem or consider cross-training with low- or no-impact exercise, such as a stationary bike, elliptical or swimming. Take an extra day off. These symptoms can be short-term if you treat them early and appropriately.

If pain continues despite rest or gets worse, it could indicate a bone issue, which is potentially serious. Stress reactions or stress fractures are common in the mid-foot, mid-shin or, most concerning, high up in your leg by your hip. Pain that doesn’t go away is a symptom, so consult your healthcare team.

What to do if you suspect an overuse injury

Tell your healthcare practitioner if you’ve recently changed your workout technique, intensity, duration, frequency or types of exercises. Identifying the cause of your overuse injury will help you correct the problem and avoid repeating it. You can seek further guidance by talking with specialists such as sports medicine physicians, athletic trainers and physical therapists.

Once your injury has healed, ask a specialist to check that you’ve completely regained strength, motion, flexibility and balance before beginning the activity again. Pay special attention to proper technique to avoid future injuries.

Staying strong

Don’t allow an overuse injury to prevent you from being physically active. By working with a specialist, listening to your body and pacing yourself, you can avoid this common setback and safely increase your activity level.

Knowing you worked hard to prepare will add to your feeling of accomplishment on race day, but don’t overdo it. You’re almost there. Take care of yourself so you can keep going strong all the way to the finish line.

Corey Wencl, Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin

The post Mayo Clinic Q and A: Signs of overtraining appeared first on Mayo Clinic News Network.

Curtis Jackson was living his dream life — a loving and supportive wife, three wonderful kids, and a future that looked as bright as could be.

Then, one day, without warning, the dream was shattered.

At only 46, Curtis was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, one of the deadliest and most aggressive forms of cancer. It’s a silent killer that strikes the liver. It is often diagnosed in later stages, leaving patients with few treatment options and little time to live.

The Jackson family turned to Mayo Clinic, where a team of experts fought the cancer with a weapon rarely used in the battle against this aggressive form of cancer.

Watch: A rare cancer. A rare weapon. Curtis Jackson’s inspiring story of survival.

Journalists: Broadcast-quality video (2:17) is in the downloads at the end of this post. Please courtesy: “Mayo Clinic News Network.” Read the script.

The rare cancer

Years before his cancer diagnosis, Curtis was diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC is a chronic liver disease that causes inflammation and scarring to the bile ducts, which work with the liver to help with digestion.

PSC put the Arizona man at higher risk for liver cancer, requiring him to get regular diagnostic screenings. As with most forms of cancer, but particularly cholangiocarcinoma, doctors say early detection is key to improving patient outcomes.

However, with cholangiocarcinoma, there are often no warning signs or symptoms alerting patients of the need to consult with their doctor about getting screened, until it’s too late. In Curtis’ case, the cholangiocarcinoma was detected in one of his routine screenings at Mayo Clinic, which doctors say likely helped save his life.

“It’s a very rare cancer that tends to grow unnoticed,” says Dr. Tanios Bekaii-Saab, an oncologist with the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center in Arizona. “If the cancer gets to the point where it’s too advanced for surgery or transplantation, universally this is a noncurative or noncurable cancer.”

The rare weapon

Doctors say a liver transplant can sometimes be an option for some patients. However, not many transplant centers perform liver transplants on patients diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma. Mayo Clinic is one of the few centers that do offer liver transplantation for some patients who meet certain criteria.

In Curtis’ case, doctors at Mayo Clinic determined a liver transplant was his best chance for survival.

“It is a unique form of therapy that is based on research that started at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota,” says Dr. Aqel Bashar, director of the Mayo Clinic Transplant Center in Arizona.

“We developed some protocols that helped us improve the outcome of transplant in these patients, and without these protocols, a lot of patients with this type of cancer would not make it to transplant,” says Dr. Aqel.

The treatment

Curtis first underwent chemotherapy and radiation at Mayo Clinic. He was then placed on the liver transplant waiting list for a donor organ. While waiting, Curtis says he kept his focus on his family.

“I spent all the time I could with my wife and kids, like basketball practices, homework, anything we could do to help our kids,” says Curtis.

When Curtis got the call a donor organ was found, he immediately reported to Mayo Clinic to undergo his lifesaving liver transplant. The surgery was a success. Four weeks later, Curtis was back at home with family recovering well and feeling a deep sense of gratitude for his organ donor and his team at Mayo Clinic.

“Thank you because now I get to see my daughters get married, go to college, I get to see my son live his dreams and go to college and get married,” says Curtis. “I get to live and grow old with my wife. I can’t say this enough to everyone, ‘thank you.'”

“We are already seeing signs that his new liver is functioning extremely well, and most of his liver tests have come back normal,” says Dr. Aqel. “It is an impressive recovery in a short amount of time.”

“A lot of love goes out to the people in that family,” says Gwyn, Curtis’ oldest daughter in reference to the organ donor’s family. “They allowed us to have our dad back and we’re so grateful because we love him so much.”

Doctors at Mayo Clinic are monitoring Curtis’ progress closely. Meanwhile, Curtis’ future is back to looking bright, only now with even deeper gratitude in his heart.

“This truly is the gift of life,” says Curtis.

Related stories:

• (VIDEO) Breathing easy thanks to the gift of life and new Mayo Clinic Lung Transplant Program in Arizona
• Breaking barriers: Helping Native Americans in need get the gift of life
• Jessie’s Journey
• (VIDEO) Harnessing the power of innovation and a patient’s will to survive

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