A device to monitor skin gases; a rise in pregnancy related deaths; a new way to slow kidney disease – Morning Medical Update

Northwestern University's wearable skin device © John A. Rogers/Northwestern University

Wearable device reads skin gases to monitor health

Northwestern University researchers have developed the first wearable device that senses gases emitted from and absorbed by the skin, offering new ways to monitor wounds, hydration, infections, and exposure to environmental hazards. Hovering just above the skin without contact, the device tracks changes in water vapor, CO₂, and volatile organic compounds, with data sent wirelessly for real-time health insights. Researchers say the tech could transform care for vulnerable patients and aid in early infection detection.

Pregnancy-related deaths rose 28% from 2018 to 2022, study finds

A JAMA Network Open study finds pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. rose nearly 28% between 2018 and 2022, with major disparities by race and state. American Indian and Alaska Native women faced the highest mortality rates, followed by non-Hispanic Black women. Researchers estimate that nearly 2,700 deaths could have been prevented if national rates matched those of the lowest-performing states. Cardiovascular disease led overall causes, while mental health and substance use were key drivers of late maternal deaths.

UCLA study points to new way to slow kidney disease

UCLA researchers have identified a potential precision medicine approach to prevent kidney failure by targeting a protein called type 5 collagen, which influences how scar tissue forms after kidney injury. In mouse models, blocking a key scarring pathway with a repurposed anti-cancer drug, Cilengitide, slowed disease progression in those with low collagen expression. The team is now developing a blood test to identify patients most likely to benefit, potentially opening the door to personalized treatment for chronic kidney disease.