Latest news with #UniversityofTennesseeHealthScienceCenter
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
I'm an oncologist. Here's my biggest piece of advice for Biden right now.
The revelation of former President Joseph Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis left me on unfamiliar footing. As a medical oncologist, I find most celebrity disclosures humbling yet rarely moving. But for someone whose uncle is in the midst of a very similar cancer journey, the particulars of Biden's disease are inescapable. In a statement released Sunday, Biden's office disclosed that he had Stage 4 prostate cancer with 'metastasis to the bone.' The disease was noted to be an 'aggressive form' with a Gleason score of 9 (on a scale of 6 to 10), which reflects the heightened abnormality of the cells. The former president is now exploring treatment options with his doctors. Not long ago, my 74-year-old uncle found himself in the same place. In 2023, his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test — which measures a protein produced by both normal and cancerous cells of the prostate gland — was 1.5, well below the age-appropriate normal of 4.0. But within a year, despite only vague urinary symptoms, his level spiked to 104. An MRI of the prostate and biopsy duly followed, and confirmed cancer with a high Gleason score. Shortly after, a PET scan showed that the disease had already spread to various bones and lymph nodes. Like Biden, in other words, my uncle's malady was Stage 4 at the time of diagnosis — controllable but incurable. Because prostate cancers are often slow-growing and assessed regularly with PSA levels, the vast majority (70%, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) are first detected at an early stage, still localized to the prostate. But while such advanced presentations are unlikely at the time of initial detection, they are not impossible. According to the CDC, 8% of prostate cancers are first diagnosed when the cancer has already spread so widely. After my uncle's unexpected diagnosis, I had to provide space for him and his immediate family to absorb the news. And though I would not be the primary doctor for his treatment, I did reassure him that regardless of the advanced cancer, an effective treatment plan did exist. The former president will receive the same treatment plan my uncle has: an individualized strategy that accounts for his disease specifics, physical ability, co-morbidities and quality of life. And crucially, my uncle could start this journey with optimism, thanks not only to his personal faith but to the burgeoning potential of current prostate cancer treatments — hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation and others. 'Over the past decade, treatment for advanced prostate cancer has evolved significantly,' said Bilawal Ahmed, an oncologist at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and a panel contributor on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network's guidelines for prostate cancer. 'While Stage 4 prostate cancer is not curable, it is very often treatable and manageable as a chronic disease. This helps shift the focus from fear to a long-term care plan rooted in hope and ongoing support.' This is where Biden, and others like my uncle, stand to potentially benefit from the bounties of the former president's own 'moonshot' mission to reduce cancer deaths through significant investment in research. Such efforts, which are threatened by the Trump administration's ongoing budget cuts, are the mainspring to expand our arsenal against a disease whose incidence and death toll remain substantial. 'Cancer touches us all,' Biden posted Monday on social media. For me, this holds true both personally and professionally. My uncle has made incredible progress on his cancer journey: His PSA has cratered on treatment and scans show no active disease. While no two cancers are ever alike, I hope the former president's path meets equal success. This article was originally published on
Yahoo
16-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Pediatrician recommends vaccinations as ‘quad-demic' surges
(NewsNation) — If you're blowing your nose or coughing a little more than usual, you're not the only one. It's prime sick season, and the 'quad-demic' persists. What is it, and how can you protect your health? NewsNation spoke with Dr. Jason Yaun, a pediatrician and professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. A 'pandemic' is a widespread outbreak of an infectious disease, as we saw with COVID-19. But the term 'quad-demic' began appearing in recent months, and it describes the presence of multiple viruses going around. 'The term 'quad-demic' is being used to describe the simultaneous outbreaks of four viruses, consisting of three respiratory illnesses and one gastrointestinal disease: influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the stomach bug, norovirus.' Feeling sick? Here's what you might have RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat and lungs. The symptoms are similar to the common cold and other respiratory infections like the flu and COVID-19. RSV can cause other illnesses like bronchiolitis, which is inflammation of the lungs' small airways, and pneumonia. Infants and older adults are most susceptible. Last year, the Centers for Disease Control recorded more than one million hospitalizations and more than 100,000 deaths caused by respiratory viruses, such as RSV. 'While these viruses can affect anyone, certain groups are at a heightened risk for severe disease and complications,' Yaun said. 'These include older adults, who often have weakened immune systems, young children whose immune systems are still developing, individuals with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant and recently pregnant people.' RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the U.S., according to the CDC. 'The CDC predicts that emergency department visits will remain high and continue to increase across most states, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preventive measures,' Yaun said. Where are measles cases rising? Doctors suggest staying up to date on vaccinations. 'We are seeing that fewer people are getting vaccinated for respiratory viruses, particularly influenza. The COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to some 'vaccine fatigue,' but people may also not feel the urgency to get vaccinated.' Dr. Yaun said. 'Vaccines remain a safe and effective way to prevent illness and reduce the severity of these infections.' Everyday healthy hygiene habits go a long way, too. Wash your hands with soap and water and avoid being around other people who are sick. More Americans could unknowingly be carrying bird flu: CDC Of the viruses within the 'quad-demic,' norovirus is the only one that cannot be vaccinated against. It's more commonly known as the 'stomach bug,' causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines. 'The rise in positive norovirus cases during this time is atypical compared to recent seasons. This winter's wave of norovirus infections has reached levels more than double last season's peak,' Dr. Yaun said. 'Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine for norovirus, so proper handwashing and food preparation techniques are imperative for prevention.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
13-02-2025
- Yahoo
U.S. man who killed wife on Fiji honeymoon gets life in prison
A Tennessee man has been sentenced to life in prison in Fiji after being convicted of murdering his wife on their honeymoon in 2022, according to local media. Bradley Dawson, 40, was convicted of killing wife Christe Chen, 36, in December 2024. On Feb. Tuesday, he was sentenced to life in prison. Justice Riyaz Hamza, a judge in Fiji's Lautoka High Court, said that Dawson will have to serve a minimum of 18 years before he can be considered for a pardon, according to the Fiji Times. Hamza said that the eight-day trial proved that Dawson engaged in conduct which caused Chen's death while they were staying at an exclusive island resort, the Fiji Times said. Hamza also said that Dawson intended to cause Chen's death or was reckless as to causing it, according to the Fiji Times. Chen, a graduate of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, was working as a pharmacist at the time of her death, CBS affiliate WREG reported. Members of the staff had heard the couple arguing before the murder, and Chen was found the next day by resort staff, with multiple blunt trauma wounds to her head. In 2022, a lawyer representing Christe Chen's parents said their daughter's body was so badly damaged that she couldn't be embalmed for return to the U.S. and her remains were cremated. Dawson fled by kayak to a nearby island after he killed Chen. He was found about 36 hours after Chen's body was discovered, with his passport and other belongings with him. Hamza said this indicated he planned to flee. "Your conduct after the incident was appalling. Having inflicted serious and life-threatening injuries to the deceased you fled the scene of the crime, leaving the deceased alone and helpless," Hamza said during the sentencing, in part, according to the Fiji Times. Trump, Musk take questions at White House Flu deaths outpace COVID deaths in 22 states for first time since pandemic began New details on Trump's new tariffs memo as he meets with India's Modi
Yahoo
12-02-2025
- Yahoo
How the murder of a Memphis college student led to the arrest of six Tennessee cops
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Six Tennessee law enforcement officers are facing charges in connection with the violent arrest of a murder suspect following a cross-county chase. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation arrested six officers involved in the arrest of Jackson Hopper, a suspect charged with killing a college student in a Memphis park in October. The arrests follow an investigation into allegations of excessive use of force. The six officers arrested are from three different law enforcement agencies in West Tennessee. Here's what to know about the suspect, the officers and the arrests. On Oct. 19, 2024, Ellie Young, a 22 year old student from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, was shot and killed after a walk in support of the American Cancer Society took place at Shelby Farms Park. Witnesses told police a male driver fired two shots into the back of Young's Jeep Wrangler in the parking lot while she was inside. "The victim came out of the Jeep Wrangler and the male suspect fired at least one more shot into the victim as she lay on the ground," the affidavit said. The suspect then fled the scene. After a lengthy chase, Hopper, a recent ex-boyfriend of Young's, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. In December, Hopper was indicted and remains in custody. Young's family has also sued Hopper and his mother to prevent them from hiding assets to avoid a potential wrongful death payout. The arrest sparked an investigation into allegations that the arresting officers used excessive force in detaining Hopper. During the investigation, TBI agents learned an officer with the Mason Police Department initiated a traffic stop for a vehicle matching the description of one driven by Hopper provided by Shelby County law enforcement. The driver refused to stop, a pursuit began and deputies from multiple agencies joined the chase through three counties before Hopper crashed on Highway 51 in Dyer County. A video of the arrest shows a group of armed law enforcement around Hopper's vehicle, which was flipped over. An officer demanded that Hopper show his hands. Moments later, he was pulled out of the vehicle and officers appeared to strike him while he was on the ground. Toward the end of the video, Hopper is seen being escorted and placed in the back seat of a patrol car. The incident left him with black eyes. On Feb. 10, a Dyer County Grand Jury returned indictments charging the officers with a range of offenses including official misconduct, official oppression, assault and tampering with evidence. All six officers turned themselves in and were each released on a $25,000 bond. Bryan Lane, 37, Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Zachary Antle, 32, Mason Police Department: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Dakota Wilkerson, 27, Tipton County Sheriff's Office: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Samuel Chastain, 35, Tipton County Sheriff's Office: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Benjamin Stanifer, 30, Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office: One count of Tampering with Evidence. Matthew Lawler, born 29, Tipton County Sheriff's Office: One count of Tampering with Evidence. Antle, Chastain, Lane and Wilkerson are accused of assaulting, unlawful mistreating and causing bodily harm to Hopper. The indictment further alleges that Stanifer and Lawler altered or concealed their body-worn cameras on the day of the arrest "with the intent to impair its availability as evidence in the investigation." Multiple Tennessee sheriffs expressed shock and dismay about the arrests. Tipton County Sheriff Shannon Beasley said Hopper tried to run over officers during the high-speed pursuit and drove into opposing traffic toward innocent civilians. "I am in disbelief and saddened to hear this news," Beasley said in a statement. "These men acted courageously and without hesitation or reservation, put themselves in harms way in the pursuit of justice while pursuing a violent, murder suspect." Sheriff Jeff Box in Dyer County echoed that sentiment in a statement, saying, "I am saddened today by the indictment of six officers who heroically assisted my deputies in the capture of a man who had just murdered his ex-girlfriend in broad daylight in Shelby County," Lauderdale County Sheriff Brian Kelley said officers were disciplined after an internal investigation determined they violated department policy, but no evidence warranting criminal prosecution was found. Kelley said he was "filled with a flood of emotions ranging from confusion to hurt." "Until proven otherwise, I support all the officers who put their lives on the line against an impossible situation and ask everyone not to jump to judgment based on 60 seconds' worth of video footage," Kelley said. Contributing: Lucas Finton, Memphis Commercial Appeal This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: 6 Tennessee police charged with assault after murder suspect's arrest
USA Today
12-02-2025
- USA Today
How the murder of a Memphis college student led to the arrest of six Tennessee cops
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Six Tennessee law enforcement officers are facing charges in connection with the violent arrest of a murder suspect following a cross-county chase. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation arrested six officers involved in the arrest of Jackson Hopper, a suspect charged with killing a college student in a Memphis park in October. The arrests follow an investigation into allegations of excessive use of force. The six officers arrested are from three different law enforcement agencies in West Tennessee. Here's what to know about the suspect, the officers and the arrests. Why was there a search for Jackson Hopper? On Oct. 19, 2024, Ellie Young, a 22 year old student from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, was shot and killed after a walk in support of the American Cancer Society took place at Shelby Farms Park. Witnesses told police a male driver fired two shots into the back of Young's Jeep Wrangler in the parking lot while she was inside. "The victim came out of the Jeep Wrangler and the male suspect fired at least one more shot into the victim as she lay on the ground," the affidavit said. The suspect then fled the scene. After a lengthy chase, Hopper, a recent ex-boyfriend of Young's, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. In December, Hopper was indicted and remains in custody. Young's family has also sued Hopper and his mother to prevent them from hiding assets to avoid a potential wrongful death payout. What happened during Jackson Hopper's arrest? The arrest sparked an investigation into allegations that the arresting officers used excessive force in detaining Hopper. During the investigation, TBI agents learned an officer with the Mason Police Department initiated a traffic stop for a vehicle matching the description of one driven by Hopper provided by Shelby County law enforcement. The driver refused to stop, a pursuit began and deputies from multiple agencies joined the chase through three counties before Hopper crashed on Highway 51 in Dyer County. A video of the arrest shows a group of armed law enforcement around Hopper's vehicle, which was flipped over. An officer demanded that Hopper show his hands. Moments later, he was pulled out of the vehicle and officers appeared to strike him while he was on the ground. Toward the end of the video, Hopper is seen being escorted and placed in the back seat of a patrol car. The incident left him with black eyes. What are officers accused of in Jackson Hopper arrest? On Feb. 10, a Dyer County Grand Jury returned indictments charging the officers with a range of offenses including official misconduct, official oppression, assault and tampering with evidence. All six officers turned themselves in and were each released on a $25,000 bond. Bryan Lane, 37, Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Zachary Antle, 32, Mason Police Department: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Dakota Wilkerson, 27, Tipton County Sheriff's Office: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Samuel Chastain, 35, Tipton County Sheriff's Office: One count each of Official Misconduct, Official Oppression, and Assault. Benjamin Stanifer, 30, Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office: One count of Tampering with Evidence. Matthew Lawler, born 29, Tipton County Sheriff's Office: One count of Tampering with Evidence. Antle, Chastain, Lane and Wilkerson are accused of assaulting, unlawful mistreating and causing bodily harm to Hopper. The indictment further alleges that Stanifer and Lawler altered or concealed their body-worn cameras on the day of the arrest "with the intent to impair its availability as evidence in the investigation." What are police saying? Multiple Tennessee sheriffs expressed shock and dismay about the arrests. Tipton County Sheriff Shannon Beasley said Hopper tried to run over officers during the high-speed pursuit and drove into opposing traffic toward innocent civilians. "I am in disbelief and saddened to hear this news," Beasley said in a statement. "These men acted courageously and without hesitation or reservation, put themselves in harms way in the pursuit of justice while pursuing a violent, murder suspect." Sheriff Jeff Box in Dyer County echoed that sentiment in a statement, saying, "I am saddened today by the indictment of six officers who heroically assisted my deputies in the capture of a man who had just murdered his ex-girlfriend in broad daylight in Shelby County," Lauderdale County Sheriff Brian Kelley said officers were disciplined after an internal investigation determined they violated department policy, but no evidence warranting criminal prosecution was found. Kelley said he was "filled with a flood of emotions ranging from confusion to hurt." "Until proven otherwise, I support all the officers who put their lives on the line against an impossible situation and ask everyone not to jump to judgment based on 60 seconds' worth of video footage," Kelley said. Contributing: Lucas Finton, Memphis Commercial Appeal
