The Latest Medical News

A Summary of The Latest Medical News: A groundbreaking study reveals that AI analyzing routine abdominal CT scans can predict fall risk years ahead by measuring **core muscle density**, a stronger indicator than muscle size alone.[1][2] Researchers from Mayo Clinic applied a deep learning algorithm to scans from nearly 4,000 adults aged 20 to 89, identifying falls via medical records over about seven years.[1][2][3] **Lower muscle density**—appearing darker and more uniform on CT scans with less fat infiltration—was linked to a 2.3 times higher fall risk compared to moderate density, even after adjusting for BMI and chronic conditions.[1][2] This association was most striking in middle-aged adults (45-64 years), with a nearly **5 times higher risk** (adjusted hazard ratio 4.98), surprising lead author Jennifer L. St. Sauver, PhD.[1][2] Unlike fat distribution, muscle size, or bone measures, **only muscle density** independently predicted falls, highlighting core muscles' role as stabilizers during trips or stumbles.[1] St. Sauver noted that dense abdominal muscles likely help people **catch themselves mid-fall**, emphasizing core strength's importance for daily mobility beyond traditional leg-focused assessments.[1] The study promotes **opportunistic screening** in radiology, extracting extra insights from routine CTs without added tests like balance or gait exams, which aren't standard for midlife patients.[1] **Core strength matters early**: Markers appear by age 45, so maintaining it throughout adulthood via targeted exercises could slash future fall risks, a leading injury cause for those 65+.[1][3] Consult a healthcare professional or physiotherapist for a safe, personalized plan to boost abdominal muscle density and function.[1] Help with your insurance? https://tally.so/r/n012P9