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Appeals Court Upholds U.S. Mandate on Cancer Screenings and HIV Drugs
New HIV drug shows huge potential, and tirzepatide shows yet another potential use
The Sign Out
June 24, 2024
Health News
Appeals Court Upholds U.S. Mandate on Cancer Screenings and HIV Drugs
A U.S. appeals court ruled to uphold a federal mandate requiring health insurers to cover preventive care services like cancer screenings and HIV-preventing drugs without additional costs to patients. This mandate aims to enhance public health by ensuring access to essential preventive services. 👨⚖️
However, the court also noted that the plaintiffs argued the selection process for these services violates the Constitution's Appointments Clause, as the Preventive Services Task Force members were not appointed by the president or confirmed by the Senate. This introduces potential future legal challenges, which could impact the mandate's sustainability.
Health News
WHO Issues Global Alert on Fake Ozempic Amid Rising Popularity
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global alert concerning counterfeit versions of Ozempic, a medication primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes but increasingly sought after for its weight-loss effects. Ozempic contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which helps control blood sugar levels and reduces appetite by signaling fullness to the brain.
The WHO's warning highlights significant health risks associated with fake Ozempic, which may contain incorrect or harmful substances instead of semaglutide. These counterfeit medications have been detected in several countries, including the UK, US, and Brazil, since 2022. The organization advises sourcing the drug only through reputable channels, such as healthcare providers, and cautions against purchasing it online or via social media.
Health News
New HIV Drug Lenacapavir Shows Promise in African Prevention Trials
A study by Gilead Sciences showed that lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable drug, significantly reduces HIV infection rates by 79% in African trials. This promising development is being hailed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a potential game-changer for HIV prevention. The drug, administered biannually, offers a convenient alternative to the daily Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) regimens currently available.
The trial included participants from several African countries, where the prevalence of HIV remains high. By providing a long-lasting protective effect, lenacapavir could enhance adherence to HIV prevention protocols, which is a major challenge with daily medication. The results showed a remarkable decrease in new HIV infections, marking a significant step forward in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.
The WHO has emphasized the importance of this development, noting that such innovations are crucial for achieving global HIV prevention targets. As the trials continue, there is cautious optimism that lenacapavir could become a cornerstone in the arsenal against HIV, especially in regions hardest hit by the epidemic.
Journal Gists
5:2 Diet Outshines Medication in Type 2 Diabetes
Clinical Question: Does a 5:2 meal replacement (MR) intermittent fasting diet improve glycemic control and weight loss more effectively than metformin and empagliflozin in patients with early type 2 diabetes?
Bottom Line: In the EARLY randomized clinical trial conducted in China, the 5:2 MR intermittent fasting diet significantly improved glycemic control and resulted in greater weight loss over 16 weeks compared to metformin and empagliflozin in adults with early type 2 diabetes and overweight or obesity. The 5:2 MR group experienced the most substantial reduction in HbA1c levels (mean reduction of 1.9%) and the greatest mean weight loss (9.7 kg), outperforming both metformin and empagliflozin groups. Read more at JAMA.
Tirzepatide Triumphs in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Trials
Clinical Question: Does tirzepatide effectively reduce obstructive sleep apnea severity and improve associated cardiovascular risk factors in obese patients?
Bottom Line: In two phase 3 trials, tirzepatide significantly reduced the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), body weight, hypoxic burden, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels, and systolic blood pressure compared to placebo over 52 weeks in individuals with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and obesity. The treatment was generally well-tolerated, with gastrointestinal adverse events being the most common. Read more at NEJM.
More In Health News
What in the world is going on?
☀️ Heatwave causes major power outages across Balkan states. A heatwave led to widespread power outages in Montenegro, Bosnia, Albania, and Croatia's Adriatic coast on June 21. High temperatures and increased power demand overloaded the system, disrupting businesses, traffic lights, and air conditioning. The outage began at 1 p.m. and power was mostly restored by evening. Authorities are investigating the exact cause, with Montenegro reporting potential issues in a transmission line. The risk of further outages remains high due to ongoing heat and energy demands. Reuters News has more.
😧 FBI raids Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao's home amid corruption investigation. The FBI conducted a raid on the home of Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption. The operation included searches of multiple locations linked to Thao and her associates. Federal authorities have not disclosed specific details of the allegations but have indicated that the investigation involves potential misuse of public funds and other illicit activities. Mayor Thao's office has stated that she is cooperating fully with the investigation. Politico has more.
🚑 Arkansas grocery store shooting leaves 4 dead and several injured. A tragic shooting occurred at a grocery store in West Helena, Arkansas, resulting in four fatalities and multiple injuries. The incident took place on June 22, around 7:30PM. The suspect, who opened fire inside the store, has been apprehended by police. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack and ensuring the safety of the community. Read more at CBS News.
🇬🇧 UK’s richest family sentenced for exploiting domestic workers. Four members of the UK's wealthiest family, the Hindujas, have been sentenced by a Swiss court for exploiting Indian staff at their Geneva villa. Prakash and Kamal Hinduja, along with their son Ajay and his wife Namrata, received prison sentences of four to four-and-a-half years. They were found guilty of exploitation and illegal employment, but acquitted of human trafficking. The workers, paid as little as £7 for 18-hour days, alleged severe mistreatment. Read more at BBC.
In Case You Missed It…
What’s The Diagnosis?
A 55-year-old woman presents to her primary care physician with complaints of chronic fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and persistent low-grade fever for the past several months. She also reports night sweats and occasional cough with yellow sputum. Physical examination reveals cervical lymphadenopathy. Laboratory tests show an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and a positive Mantoux tuberculin skin test. A chest X-ray demonstrates bilateral upper lobe infiltrates with cavitations.
What is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Pulmonary embolism
B) Tuberculosis
C) Lung cancer
D) Sarcoidosis
E) Pneumonia
Answer: B) Tuberculosis
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