Breakthroughs can change life

Q: There’s so much going on with new medical treatments, but are they actually making a difference in my health today?

Gregory Y., Columbus, Ohio A: Every year, the Cleveland Clinic identifies the top 10 breakthroughs. This year’s are:

1. More mRNA vaccines: Beyond those for COVID-19, others are being developed to treat infections, such as Zika and some cancers, and to prevent cancers, such as breast cancer.

2. Improved accuracy in detecting prostate cancer metastasis: Using what’s called a PMSA PET scan, it’s now possible to detect an antigen on cancer cells’ surface that’s a potential biomarker for the disease.

3. More power to lower LDL cholesterol: Using a twice-yearly injection of inclisiran along with a statin may improve compliance and save lives.

4. A new diabetes medication: Although still in phase 3 trials, a once-weekly injection of GIP and GLP-1 agonists may be a new way to get the pancreas to release insulin and to reduce blood sugar spikes after eating.

5. A rapid cure for post-partum depression: A neurosteroid, administered by IV for 60 hours, appears to control the brain’s stress response by targeting deficient brain signaling.

6. A first-ever treatment for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: There’s now a medication that targets heart muscle to reduce abnormal contractions that put the heart into overdrive. It may be approved for use this month.

7. Hot-flash zapper using nonhormonal drugs —

NK3R antagonists: Additional studies are needed before it is available.

8. Implantable movement stimulators for paralyzed limbs: Designated as a breakthrough device, these implanted electrodes collect movement signals from the brain and decode them into movement commands.

9. & 10. Two AI-powered advances: AI algorithms can detect risk factors for sepsis in real time and spur early intervention, saving lives. And machine learning is allowing doctors to select more effective medications, along with personalized doses and medication combinations.