Smartphone use linked to slower cognitive decline in older adults; CT scans may contribute to 5% of U.S. cancer cases; the health effects of e-cigarette use – Morning Medical Update

Author(s):

Austin Littrell

Key Takeaways

Regular technology use in older adults may slow cognitive decline, contradicting the "digital dementia" hypothesis.
CT scans could be responsible for 5% of U.S. cancer cases, prompting calls for more judicious imaging practices.
Exclusive e-cigarette use is linked to higher COPD risk and slightly increased hypertension risk, though traditional cigarettes are more harmful.

The top news stories in medicine today.

Smartphone use linked to slower cognitive decline in older adults

Older adults who regularly use smartphones, computers or the internet demonstrated slower rates of cognitive decline, according to an analysis of more than 400,000 people over 50. Published in Nature Human Behavior, the study found no support for the idea of “digital dementia” and suggests that mentally active, socially connected technology use may benefit cognitive health. The Guardian has more.

CT scans may contribute to 5% of U.S. cancer cases

A new study in JAMA Internal Medicine estimates that CT scans could account for 103,000 U.S. cancer diagnoses annually — about 5% of all cases — due to radiation exposure from the 93 million scans performed each year. Researchers urge more careful use of imaging and dose optimization, especially for low-value or unnecessary scans. Read more from NPR.

E-cigarette use linked to COPD, possible rise in blood pressure

A Johns Hopkins-led analysis of nearly 250,000 adults found exclusive e-cigarette use to be associated with a higher risk of developing COPD and, in adults aged 30-70, a slightly increased risk of hypertension. Published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research, the study adds to growing evidence of vaping’s health risks — though use of traditional cigarettes remains more strongly linked to chronic disease.