The Biden administration on Tuesday named the first 10 medicines that will be subject to price negotiations between Medicare and participating drug companies. The list represents the first step in a landmark program aimed at reducing the government’s drug spending, and potentially U.S. drug prices in general. However, six major drug companies are already challenging… read on > read on >
A new COVID-19 surge is underway, with seasonal changes and new variants fueling an increase in hospitalizations and deaths. A new Omicron variant, named Eris, has become dominant in the United States amid signs that an even more highly evolved COVID variant called BA.2.86 is starting to spread across America. However, experts say the public… read on > read on >
Does your dog struggle to breathe, especially at mealtime? New research suggests the two might often be connected. The University of Missouri researchers discovered that about 75% of dogs who had respiratory disease and were participating in a swallowing study were also found to have one or more digestive tract abnormalities. The scientists have been… read on > read on >
It’s known that older men with type 2 diabetes have higher odds for erectile dysfunction, or ED. Now, new research suggests problems in the bedroom for younger men may signal undiagnosed prediabetes or diabetes. Researchers found that men 40 and younger with ED have about a one-third increased risk for prediabetes or full-blown type 2… read on > read on >
While new research suggests cancer screenings are not extending lives for the most part, the study’s authors stressed that there are still good reasons why people should continue with screenings. Their review of clinical trials looked at six kinds of common cancer tests — mammography, colonoscopy, fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) or endoscopy, prostate-specific antigen… read on > read on >
Suicide has become an urgent issue among American military veterans, with rates increasing by more than 10 times in nearly two decades, a new study reveals. “Suicide rates for post-9/11 veterans have steadily increased over the last 15 years and at a much faster pace than the total U.S. population, and post-9/11 veterans with TBI… read on > read on >
If you need quick directions on performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in an emergency, don’t rely on Alexa, Siri or another voice assistant. A new study finds the directions provided by these AI (artificial intelligence) helpers are inconsistent and lack relevance. “Our findings suggest that bystanders should call emergency services rather than relying on a voice… read on > read on >
After a heart attack, elderly adults have better odds for improved health and survival if all major heart vessels are cleared, not just the one that caused the heart attack. Because these patients often have other medical conditions and may be frail, doctors frequently opt to open only the “culprit” blood vessel and leave other… read on > read on >
When the pandemic began, spending on mental health services skyrocketed and it continues to rise even as use of telehealth services leveled off. That’s the key takeaway from a new study published Aug. 25 in JAMA Health Forum. Some rules for expanded payment for telehealth services have now expired, so it’s not known whether this… read on > read on >
Paper straws, meant to be an eco-friendly alternative to plastic, may not be better for the environment, a new study concludes, warning that they also contain “forever chemicals” that can harm human health. “Straws made from plant-based materials, such as paper and bamboo, are often advertised as being more sustainable and eco-friendly than those made… read on > read on >
