Health technology assessment : HTA
-
Health Technol Assess · May 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialContinuous low-dose antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent urinary tract infection in adults who perform clean intermittent self-catheterisation: the AnTIC RCT.
People carrying out clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) to empty their bladder often suffer repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs). Continuous once-daily, low-dose antibiotic treatment (antibiotic prophylaxis) is commonly advised but knowledge of its effectiveness is lacking. ⋯ The results of this large randomised trial, conducted in accordance with best practice, demonstrate clear benefit for antibiotic prophylaxis in terms of reducing the frequency of UTI for people carrying out CISC. Antibiotic prophylaxis use appears safe for individuals over 12 months, but the emergence of resistant urinary pathogens may prejudice longer-term management of recurrent UTI and is a public health concern. Future work includes longer-term studies of antimicrobial resistance and studies of non-antibiotic preventative strategies.
-
Health Technol Assess · May 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialEnhanced psychological care in cardiac rehabilitation services for patients with new-onset depression: the CADENCE feasibility study and pilot RCT.
Around 19% of people screened by UK cardiac rehabilitation programmes report having moderate or severe symptoms of depression. These individuals are at an increased risk of cardiac mortality and morbidity, reduced quality of life and increased use of health resources compared with their non-depressed counterparts. Maximising psychological health is a goal of cardiac rehabilitation, but psychological care is patchy. ⋯ Consideration should be given to the delivery of EPC by dedicated mental health practitioners, working closely with cardiac rehabilitation services.
-
Health Technol Assess · May 2018
What works to increase attendance for diabetic retinopathy screening? An evidence synthesis and economic analysis.
Diabetic retinopathy screening (DRS) is effective but uptake is suboptimal. ⋯ The National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme.