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Trump Health Policy Overhaul

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s restructuring of CDC, FDA, and the childhood vaccine schedule under the Make America Healthy Again agenda

Trump administration pushes to ease testosterone prescriptions for men

Illustration accompanying article: Trump administration pushes to ease testosterone prescriptions for men
  • The Trump administration, backed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is moving to make testosterone prescriptions easier for men to obtain.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the military would begin screening for low testosterone and offering the hormone to help troops operate at their "absolute best."
  • The push aligns with messaging from online influencers and podcasters who promote testosterone as a way to boost muscle and energy.
  • Medical experts say new research supports testosterone's benefits for sexual health, but the notion of it as an all-purpose elixir for strength and vitality is not supported by science.
 2026-07-16 · 3 MIN READ

House panel probes NIH after scientists charged with smuggling mpox

Illustration accompanying article: House panel probes NIH after scientists charged with smuggling mpox
  • The House Committee on Energy and Commerce is examining the National Institutes of Health after two NIH scientists were charged with smuggling deactivated mpox virus into the United States and misleading investigators.
  • Dr. Vincent Munster, 53, a Dutch national and chief of the virus ecology section at the NIH's Rocky Mountain Laboratories, and Claude Kwe, 38, a research fellow from Cameroon, were charged on June 2 with conspiracy to smuggle biological materials and making false statements to federal law enforcement.
  • Customs and Border Protection officials discovered 113 sealed laboratory vials in the scientists' luggage after they arrived at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on January 25 from a research trip to the Republic of Congo; 17 of 20 vials tested contained inactivated monkeypox virus.
  • Both men pleaded not guilty at a hearing in Missoula, Montana, on June 3 and were released on bail after surrendering their passports.
  • Sen. Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., has called for an independent investigation into Rocky Mountain Laboratories' biosecurity and personnel practices, citing a whistleblower complaint and two reported employee exposures to Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus.
 2026-06-26 · 3 MIN READ
Illustration accompanying article: CDC tells health programs to deprioritize harm reduction within days

Nurse RaDonda Vaught, convicted in 2022 medication death, now speaks on safety

2026-05-21

RaDonda Vaught, a former Tennessee nurse convicted of negligent homicide over a medication error that killed a patient, is now working as a paid patient-safety speaker, according to an NPR report. The former Vanderbilt Medical Center nurse is drawing attention from nursing groups and hospital associations as she discusses details of the case and says she hopes it will reduce mistakes.

Proposed ban on potassium bromate could force New York pizza, bagel changes

2026-05-21

New York lawmakers have passed a bill that would prohibit a flour additive used to speed up dough and make New York-style pizza and bagels. The measure, which would be signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, is expected to spark changes for pizzerias and bagel shops statewide if it becomes law. The debate over the additive, potassium bromate, pits concerns about health risks against worries about cost and product identity.

RFK Jr. fires leaders of task force setting preventive care guidelines

2026-05-21

The Trump administration has fired two leaders of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an influential panel that reviews evidence and helps determine which preventive services most insurance plans must cover without a co-pay. In letters dated May 11, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. terminated the appointments of Dr. John Wong and Dr. Esa Davis before the end of their multiyear terms. Health and Human Services previously sidelined the task force’s work and postponed scheduled meetings over the past year.

RFK Jr. fires leaders of panel that sets preventive health-screening rules

2026-05-20

WASHINGTON (AP) — Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has fired the two doctors who led the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which helps set when insurance plans must cover screening services such as mammograms and colonoscopies without cost-sharing. In letters dated May 11, Kennedy notified the doctors that their appointments would end immediately.

Comic and behavioral science explain how to make habits stick

2026-05-19

A behavioral scientist says turning a habit into a repeatable routine depends on more than willpower—people also need the ability to perform the action and a clear prompt. An NPR “Life Kit” comic episode, created by cartoonist Vreni Stollberger and produced for the podcast, illustrates the approach using Tiny Habits, a method developed by BJ Fogg.

Trump adds more than 600 generic drugs to TrumpRx discount site

2026-05-19

President Donald Trump on Monday announced that more than 600 generic medications are being added to TrumpRx, the government’s discounted-drug website aimed at easing costs for patients. The expansion, he said, is made possible through partnerships with other online pharmacies, including Amazon Pharmacy, GoodRx and Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drugs.

Trump adds more than 600 generic drugs to TrumpRx discount site

2026-05-18

President Donald Trump said Monday that more than 600 generic medications are being added to TrumpRx, the government’s discounted-drug website. The expansion, announced at the White House, would increase the site’s catalog nearly sevenfold beyond its initial launch in February.

Colon cancer deaths among young adults linked to education gap

2026-05-17

A study published in April in JAMA Oncology found that colorectal cancer deaths among young adults in the U.S. are concentrated among people without college degrees, suggesting socioeconomic factors drive the increase in mortality. The American Cancer Society research, based on data from more than 101,000 deaths from 1994 through 2023, is the first national study to parse which young adults are most affected by the increase. Celebrity deaths including actor Chadwick Boseman in 2020 and James Van Der Beek earlier this year have highlighted the trend.

FDA drug voucher program stirs safety concerns after patient death, staff exodus

2026-05-17

The Food and Drug Administration's new drug review voucher program is facing questions about its safety record and long-term viability after a patient died while taking one of the drugs enrolled in the initiative, and as roughly one-fifth of the agency's drug center staff have departed over the past year.

FDA Fires Acting Drug Center Director Amid Broader Shake-Up

2026-05-16

Dr. Tracy Beth Hoeg, the acting director of the FDA’s drug center who oversaw investigations into the safety of COVID-19 vaccines and antidepressants, was removed from her position Friday, according to an internal agency email obtained by the Associated Press. Her departure, which Hoeg confirmed in a social media post saying she was “fired,” is the latest in a series of leadership changes that have roiled the powerful regulatory agency.

Breast cancer screening guidelines conflict as new advice recommends starting at 50

2026-05-16

Women deciding when to begin routine mammograms are receiving conflicting advice from the country’s top health organizations. The American College of Physicians now recommends starting at age 50, while other influential groups urge screening to begin at 40 or 45 — and they disagree on whether exams should be annual or every other year.

FDA removes Tracy Beth Hoeg as acting drug center director

2026-05-16

FDA has removed acting drug center director Tracy Beth Hoeg from her role, replacing her with deputy director Mike Davis, according to an email to agency staff obtained by The Associated Press. Hoeg later posted on social media that she was “fired.” The shake-up follows FDA Commissioner Marty Makary’s resignation earlier this week and Vinay Prasad’s departure last month.

Conflicting advice makes it hard to know when to get a mammogram

2026-05-16

Deciding when to get routine mammograms is confusing as major health groups offer different starting ages and screening intervals. The American College of Physicians last month recommended biennial mammograms for average-risk women ages 50 to 74, with a shared decision discussion for women 40 to 49. The guidance differs from the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which have urged starting earlier in the 40s.

Echoes of COVID amplify hantavirus fears despite low risk, experts say

2026-05-15

The fear and uncertainty surrounding a rare hantavirus outbreak on a Spanish cruise ship is being magnified by the public’s diminished trust in science, government and the media — a lasting legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic that risks eroding collective responses to future health emergencies, experts and residents say.

World's reaction to hantavirus tinged by echoes of COVID

2026-05-15

NEW YORK (AP) — Even years after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared over, its lingering impact shows up in how people process new health threats, AP reports. In the wake of a rare hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship, residents and health experts have pointed to renewed fear—despite official reassurances that the risk to the general public is low.

US overdose deaths fall 14 percent in 2025, CDC data shows

2026-05-14

Approximately 70,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2025, a 14 percent decline from the previous year, federal data released Wednesday indicate. The drop marks the third consecutive annual decrease and brings the national mortality total to roughly 2019 levels, according to preliminary data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Endocrine Society renames PCOS to PMOS, citing inaccuracies of 'polycystic ovary syndrome'

2026-05-14

The Endocrine Society on Tuesday published a new name for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in The Lancet, renaming the condition polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) after 14 years of collaboration between experts and patients. The change aims to correct a long-standing mischaracterization that reduced a complex hormonal disorder to a label about cysts and ovaries, contributing to missed diagnoses and inadequate care for the estimated 1 in 8 women worldwide who have it.

US overdose deaths declined in 2025, CDC data show

2026-05-14

About 70,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2025, a preliminary total that is about 14% lower than the year before, according to federal data released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC said 2025 marked the third straight annual decline, though researchers cautioned that deaths could rise again if policies or the drug supply shift.

Endocrine Society renames PCOS as PMOS to better reflect condition

2026-05-14

New guidance from the Endocrine Society and an article in The Lancet say the hormonal condition long known as polycystic ovary syndrome should now be called polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, or PMOS. Researchers and clinicians said the older name, often shortened to PCOS, is misleading because it can suggest a cyst-focused problem in the ovary rather than a broader endocrine disorder. The change aims to improve how patients are recognized and treated worldwide.

Makary’s FDA resignation widens leadership gap at HHS

2026-05-14

FDA chief Marty Makary resigned this week, widening a leadership gap across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as multiple senior posts already sat vacant or rotated through acting roles. The departure comes amid what critics say is an unusual level of upheaval at the FDA and the CDC during Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s tenure.

Utah grief author Kouri Richins sentenced to life without parole

2026-05-14

Park City, Utah, judge Richard Mrazik sentenced Kouri Richins to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2022 fentanyl overdose killing of her husband, Eric Richins, on Wednesday. Richins was convicted in March of aggravated murder and also found guilty of insurance fraud, forgery and other offenses tied to an earlier attempt to poison him.

Oncologist cleared from Nebraska biocontainment unit after cruise outbreak

2026-05-14

An oncologist who was the lone American placed in a special biocontainment unit in Nebraska after an inconclusive hantavirus test on a cruise ship outbreak has been cleared to leave that unit and join other Americans being monitored, the University of Nebraska Medical Center said. The patient, Dr. Stephen Kornfeld of Bend, Oregon, is among more than 120 passengers and crew evacuated from the Hondius, which health officials said prompted what they called the first hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary resigns under pressure from pharma, anti-abortion, vaping allies

2026-05-13

Dr. Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, resigned Tuesday after 13 months in the role, pushed out by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following months of complaints from pharmaceutical executives, anti-abortion activists and vaping lobbyists allied with President Donald Trump. Kennedy made the decision to remove Makary and the White House signed off, according to an administration official who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Trump, nearly 80, sets medical checkup at Walter Reed; White House cites routine care

2026-05-13

President Donald Trump is scheduled for a medical and dental examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on May 26, the White House said Monday evening, describing the visit as an annual physical and routine preventive care. Trump, who turns 80 next month and is the oldest person ever elected U.S. president, has faced persistent scrutiny over his health.

CAR-T therapy suppresses HIV in two patients for over a year, study finds

2026-05-13

A single dose of genetically modified immune cells suppressed HIV to undetectable levels in two patients for nearly two years after they stopped their daily medication, researchers reported Tuesday, offering an early but provocative signal that a cancer-fighting technology might one day deliver a durable alternative to lifelong antiviral drugs.

Marty Makary is out as Trump’s FDA chief; acting role goes to Kyle Diamantas

2026-05-13

Dr. Marty Makary, the head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is resigning after a rocky tenure marked by internal upheaval and growing pressure from multiple interest groups aligned with President Donald Trump, the Associated Press reported Tuesday. Trump said he likes Makary and confirmed that Kyle Diamantas, the FDA’s chief for foods, is expected to take over as acting commissioner.

Small study hints CAR-T cell therapy could help fight HIV

2026-05-13

Scientists reported at an American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy meeting that a single dose of CAR-T cells suppressed HIV in two people without restarting their usual medications. The approach, led by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, adapted a cancer therapy by engineering patients’ immune cells to better find and kill HIV-infected cells and adding protection against infection.

Trump to have medical and dental checkup May 26 at Walter Reed

2026-05-13

President Donald Trump is scheduled to see doctors for a medical and dental checkup on May 26 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the White House said Monday. The visit is his fourth publicized medical appointment since returning to office, described as an annual physical and regular preventive care.

Pew: Half of Under-50s Get Health Advice From Social Media; Few Influencers Are Credentialed

2026-05-10

About 4 in 10 U.S. adults — and roughly half of those under 50 — now get health and wellness information from social media or podcasts, according to a new survey by the Pew Research Center. Yet the study also found that only about 4 in 10 health influencers with at least 100,000 followers list a background as a health professional, raising concerns about the quality of advice reaching millions.

First new recess guidance in 13 years: protect play, pediatricians say

2026-05-10

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Monday issued its first updated guidance on school recess in 13 years, calling unstructured play breaks essential for children's academic success and warning that schools should never withhold recess as punishment. The policy statement, published in the journal Pediatrics, cites new research showing that pauses between concentrated learning help the brain store information and that recess builds relationship skills and confidence in students of all ages.

CDC absent from global hantavirus outbreak, experts question preparedness

2026-05-10

Experts are questioning the absence of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from the international response to a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, saying the agency’s diminished role signals a collapse of preparedness. The CDC deployed a team to Spain’s Canary Islands late Friday and began planning a quarantine at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, but its delayed and subdued actions stand in contrast to the agency’s past prominence in global health crises.

Health influencers dominate social media. Tips to vet fitness and mental claims

2026-05-10

Health and wellness advice is widespread on social media and podcasts, and a Pew Research Center survey found many Americans rely on it for information about their health. In a review of thousands of influencer profiles, researchers found relatively few disclose professional health credentials. Experts who spoke with The Associated Press said consumers should look for verifiable training, avoid viral “shock” claims, and confirm advice with licensed clinicians before acting.

Pediatricians urge schools to protect recess for students of all ages

2026-05-10

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Monday released new guidance saying schools should protect students’ recess, emphasizing that the unstructured breaks benefit children’s health and learning. The group said recess has been shrinking for years, and it called on schools to avoid withholding it for academic or punitive reasons.

Experts question CDC’s response to cruise ship hantavirus outbreak

2026-05-10

US health experts criticized the CDC’s handling of a hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship involving Americans, saying the agency was slow to deploy investigators and issue timely alerts. In an AP report published May 9, officials said CDC teams were later sent to Spain’s Canary Islands and Nebraska as part of a plan to evacuate American passengers for evaluation and monitoring.

Olivia and Liam top U.S. baby names list for 2025, for 7th year

2026-05-10

Olivia and Liam topped the Social Security Administration’s list of the most popular U.S. baby names for children born in 2025, the agency said May 8. The SSA released the rankings from Social Security card applications, a dataset it says dates back to 1880.

Trump FDA announces policy via press conferences and journals, skips federal rulemaking

2026-05-08

The Food and Drug Administration, under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Commissioner Marty Makary, has shifted from the established, legally required process of federal rulemaking to announcing major policy changes through press conferences, medical journal articles, and television interviews, an Associated Press review of the agency’s actions has found.

EPA to propose rolling back some Biden-era PFAS limits in drinking water

2026-05-08

The Trump administration plans to propose softening some Biden-era limits on PFAS “forever chemicals” in drinking water, according to an EPA official. The proposal would delay parts of the rollback but keep strict standards for two common PFAS types, while rescinding limits on some rarer forms and revisiting others, the official said.

CNN founder Ted Turner dies at 87

2026-05-08

Ted Turner, the television pioneer who launched CNN and helped usher in the 24-hour cable news cycle, has died. He was 87. Turner died Wednesday while surrounded by his family, according to Turner Enterprises, which oversees his businesses and investments; a cause was not released.

Investigation finds Georgia knew carpet mill chemicals were polluting water

2026-05-08

Georgia officials and scientists identified PFAS contamination in drinking-water supplies in northwest Georgia more than a decade before the state began taking new public action, an Associated Press investigation finds. Residents in the Calhoun area describe blood-test results showing PFAS buildup and health diagnoses including liver and thyroid conditions. The report also says Georgia did not issue fish advisories or do-not-drink orders as concerns grew, even as PFAS migrated toward Alabama.

FDA announces plan to phase out synthetic dyes, but rulemaking has stalled

2026-05-08

In one of his first major announcements as health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled a plan with the Food and Drug Administration to “phase out” synthetic food dyes. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said the agency was “removing all petroleum-based food dyes” from U.S. foods, but the details later turned on a voluntary agreement with foodmakers rather than new regulations. More than a year later, the FDA has not issued the scientific and regulatory documents needed to establish the basis for any formal safety action, according to an FDA expert and former FDA food program director.

Ted Turner changed the nature of news — and of those who consume it

2026-05-07

In the wake of Ted Turner’s death on Wednesday, media analysts and former colleagues recalled how his push for a global, continuous news channel helped reshape television and the public’s expectations for breaking coverage. From CNN’s early 24/7 model to its wartime reporting, Turner’s influence echoed across American politics, journalism and civic engagement, they said.

Experts urge ethical debate as cosmetic procedures become the norm

2026-05-07

Cosmetic interventions are expanding across the U.S., raising questions about how people should think about body modification in a culture that increasingly promotes youth and conformity. The Associated Press reports that theologians, philosophers and bioethicists are urging wider discussion about the ethics of procedures such as injectables, plastic surgery and prescription weight-loss drugs.

Major federal drug raid in Los Angeles spotlights public safety concerns

2026-05-07

A major federal drug raid around MacArthur Park near downtown Los Angeles led to 18 arrests and targeted fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution as voting began in the city’s mayoral race. The raid also amplified a debate between Democratic Mayor Karen Bass and Republican rival Spencer Pratt over whether the city should end needle exchange services at the park.

Experts urge ethical debate as cosmetic procedures become the norm

2026-05-06

Cosmetic procedures are becoming more common, prompting theologians, philosophers and bioethicists to call for wider ethical discussion around body modification, beauty ideals and personal agency. In Los Angeles, a 25-year-old grapples with whether to pursue cosmetic injections or surgery, underscoring how social media and cultural expectations can shape decisions. The issue spans religious guidance, medical ethics training and concerns about whether these interventions are treated as purely individual choices.

Trump revives Presidential Physical Fitness Award for U.S. schools

2026-05-06

President Donald Trump on Tuesday revived the Presidential Physical Fitness Award, tying it to a return of an annual physical fitness test in U.S. schools. Speaking at an Oval Office event with children and athletes, Trump said his administration is working to “defend America’s cherished athletic traditions.” The award is linked to the Presidential Fitness Test, which was a public-school fixture for decades before being phased out under President Barack Obama.

Deaths in 2026: Asha Bhosle, J. Craig Venter and others

2026-05-06

Associated Press’ roll call highlights notable deaths from January through April, including Asha Bhosle, whose singing career spanned nearly eight decades, and scientist J. Craig Venter, who mapped the first draft of the human genome. The list also includes former Hawaii Gov. George R. Ariyoshi, French actor Nathalie Baye and other influential figures whose deaths were recorded in 2026.

FDA authorizes first fruit-flavored e-cigarettes for adult smokers

2026-05-06

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday authorized its first fruit-flavored e-cigarettes intended for adult smokers, a policy shift after months of appeals from the vaping industry. The agency said the products it approved—mango and blueberry varieties plus two menthol versions—are for adult users who are quitting or cutting back on cigarettes.

Experts urge ethical debate as cosmetic procedures become the norm

2026-05-05

As cosmetic interventions become more common in the United States, a growing group of theologians, philosophers and bioethicists are pressing for more ethical discussion about turning to procedures for beauty, youth and conformity. The concerns range from how cultural ideals can shape decisions—often affecting women—and whether religious traditions provide clear guidance. In interviews, a Duke Divinity School theologian, a New York University medical ethicist and surgeons of different faiths described both the promise and the moral questions raised by the trend.

White House says Trump drug deals could cut $529B in 10 years

2026-05-05

WASHINGTON (AP) — White House economists estimate that President Donald Trump’s deals with pharmaceutical companies to lower some U.S. prescription drug prices to the rates charged in other countries could save $529 billion over the next 10 years, according to an analysis obtained by The Associated Press.

Some experts link religious practice to better mental health, others hedge

2026-05-05

Worldwide, religion is not uniformly peaceful, and mental health experts say faith can both protect and harm well-being. In recent commentary and research, some U.S. organizations cite evidence that religious involvement is associated with lower suicide risk, while clinicians and other advocates warn that religious communities can also intensify shame and barriers to care.

Sospechoso detenido en Austria por raticida hallado en comida para bebés

2026-05-04

Un sospechoso de 39 años fue detenido en Austria tras el hallazgo de raticida en frascos de comida para bebés de la marca HiPP en estanterías de supermercados de Europa central, según la policía del este de Austria. La detención se produjo después de que las autoridades abrieran una investigación por sospechas de poner en peligro a la población de forma deliberada, y HiPP retirara productos en Austria, Eslovaquia y la República Checa.

What is hantavirus, the infection that killed Betsy Arakawa?

2026-05-04

Betsy Arakawa, Gene Hackman’s wife, died from a hantavirus infection, New Mexico officials announced Friday. Hantavirus is spread through contact with rodents or their urine or feces, and it does not spread between people, according to public health experts.

Trump administration appeals order blocking RFK Jr.’s cuts to childhood vaccines

2026-05-02

The Trump administration appealed a federal judge’s order Wednesday that halted Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decision to end broad vaccination recommendations for children against influenza, rotavirus, hepatitis A and B, certain meningitis strains, and RSV. The one-sentence filing, submitted in Boston, offered no explanation for why the administration believes the block should be lifted, and U.S. health officials declined immediate comment.

Trump administration appeals order blocking vaccine recommendation rollback

2026-05-02

In an appeal filed Wednesday, the Trump administration asked a federal appeals court to overturn a judge’s order that blocked its effort to cut the vaccines recommended for most children in the United States. The move comes as a lawsuit by pediatric and other medical groups challenges changes made by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, including actions affecting the advisory panel that guides which vaccines are recommended.

Ghana rejects U.S. health deal over concerns about data access safeguards

2026-05-02

Ghana has rejected a proposed health deal with the United States after citing worries that U.S. entities would be able to access sensitive Ghanaian health data without adequate safeguards, an official said May 1. The executive director of Ghana’s Data Protection Commission said the requested access would have extended beyond typical needs and included metadata and reporting tools.

Connecticut House approves bill creating new child welfare oversight

2026-05-02

The Connecticut House has approved a bill that would create new oversight for the state Department of Children and Families, after the state Office of the Child Advocate criticized DCF’s casework. In a letter released this week, the office pointed to alleged failures tied to child fatalities, including an apparent suicide of a child who died shortly after requesting a move into foster care.

New obesity drugs shift how users think about holiday meals

2026-05-02

Millions of Americans taking newer obesity medications are finding that the drugs are changing not only their weight, but also how they experience food during holidays, the Associated Press reported. Patients and doctors said weekly injections used for obesity can quiet what some describe as “food noise,” alter how satisfying meals feel, and affect whether people crave or enjoy traditional, food-centered celebrations such as Thanksgiving.

Who is Dr. Nicole Saphier, Trump’s new surgeon general pick?

2026-05-02

Dr. Nicole Saphier is President Donald Trump’s latest pick for the vacant role of U.S. surgeon general, a nomination that ended the Senate committee fight for his previous choice, Dr. Casey Means. Saphier is a radiologist and a former Fox News Channel contributor who has praised aspects of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda while also criticizing some Trump administration health missteps as “embarrassing.”

Trump withdraws Casey Means’ surgeon general nomination, taps Nicole Saphier

2026-05-01

In a Thursday announcement, President Donald Trump said he is nominating radiologist Dr. Nicole Saphier for surgeon general after Dr. Casey Means’ nomination stalled in the Senate. Trump said Saphier is “a STAR physician” in a social media post, while Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised her as a “warrior for the MAHA movement.”

New FDA study confirms safety of US infant formula

2026-04-30

The FDA said in a new analysis that the U.S. infant formula supply is safe, based on testing for heavy metals, pesticides and other potential contaminants. The review, conducted under the agency’s Operation Stork Speed project, tested more than 300 samples of commercial infant formula between 2023 and 2025, federal health officials said Wednesday.

Raw milk and state laws: AP report shows push for wider access

2026-04-30

Backers of raw milk are pushing for wider availability through state legislation and other distribution models, even as a recent outbreak tied to raw milk cheddar cheese from California-based Raw Farm sickens children, the Associated Press reported. AP found more than three dozen raw-milk bills introduced in 18 states, with additional national proposals moving through Congress. Public health officials and researchers warn that unpasteurized milk can carry germs such as campylobacter and E. coli, and that children are especially vulnerable.

Raw milk backers push for wider availability despite outbreak risks

2026-04-30

Raw milk backers are pressing to make unpasteurized milk easier to buy and sell across the United States, even as new illness outbreaks linked to raw products continue to make headlines. Health officials and scientists have warned that raw milk can carry germs that cause serious disease, and one recent outbreak tied to raw milk cheddar cheese sickened nine people, including children.

McDonald’s bets on boba refreshers and a dirty Dr Pepper to drive growth

2026-04-29

McDonald’s said Tuesday it will launch six crafted beverages in U.S. restaurants on May 6, including boba-style refreshers and sodas topped with cold foam. The company is also adding a “beverage specialist” role at its roughly 14,000 U.S. locations as it competes for customers against rivals such as Starbucks and Dutch Bros.

Texas Medical Board proposes ban on in-home ketamine, tighter physician oversight

2026-04-29

Texas Medical Board officials are proposing tighter regulations on ketamine treatments, including a ban on in-home use and new limits on how many patients medical staff can treat at once when a physician is not on site, according to a proposal shared ahead of an expected May 8 publication. The board is scheduled to vote on the changes in June.

Trump administration fires National Science Board members overseeing NSF

2026-04-29

The Trump administration fired members of the National Science Board, an independent panel that oversees the National Science Foundation, according to emails board members received. Board members said they were told their positions were “terminated, effective immediately.”

FDA to fast-track review of three psychedelic drugs after Trump directive

2026-04-26

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it will offer ultra-fast review to three psychedelic drugs being developed to treat mental health conditions, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, in a move tied to a Trump executive order. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said the agency will “evaluate these potential therapies with urgency,” while the FDA said the program is meant to shorten reviews from months to weeks.

Connecticut Senate passes Lamont vaccine recommendations bill HB 5044

2026-04-26

Connecticut Democrats won final passage for Gov. Ned Lamont’s vaccine recommendations bill in the state Senate on Thursday, with an uncharacteristically early 22-12 vote. The measure would expand the authority of the Public Health Commissioner to set vaccine recommendations for both adults and children, require insurers to cover recommended shots, and let the agency buy doses from sources other than the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Conspiracy theories about missing or dead scientists boil over

2026-04-26

President Donald Trump and members of Congress are facing growing attention over conspiracy theories that link the disappearances or deaths of U.S. scientists. The theories, which began in online forums, have spread to mainstream political platforms and prompted investigations by the FBI and the House Oversight Committee.

Trump reclassifies medical marijuana to Schedule III; hearing could expand changes

2026-04-25

President Donald Trump issued an order reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, shifting how it is regulated under federal drug law. The change, issued Thursday, does not legalize marijuana for medical or recreational use under federal law, but it could reduce barriers for research and allow some federal tax deductions for licensed businesses. A new administrative hearing scheduled for the end of June could determine whether marijuana is reclassified more broadly.

CDC halted COVID vaccine study’s publication after methodology dispute

2026-04-25

U.S. health officials stopped the publication of a study on whether COVID-19 vaccines were keeping adults from becoming sick enough to need hospital care, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spokesman confirmed. The paper, which was scheduled to appear in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, was halted over a dispute about the study’s methodology.

988 hotline linked to fewer teen and young adult suicide deaths

2026-04-25

From July 2022 to December 2024, suicide deaths among U.S. people ages 15 to 23 were 11% lower than researchers projected after the launch of the 988 mental health crisis hotline, according to a study published in JAMA. The researchers said the results suggest the hotline is working, even as the program faces longer-term funding challenges.

Order reclassifies marijuana but leaves federal convictions

2026-04-25

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed an executive order reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana as a less-dangerous drug on April 24, a move that advocates say could reshape parts of drug policy. But the order does not address existing federal penalties or the people already serving long sentences under marijuana-related convictions.

Trump and Regeneron unveil a drug pricing deal for Medicaid, TrumpRx

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump said on Thursday his administration reached a deal with Regeneron to lower the prices of its drugs for Medicaid and sell the cholesterol treatment Praluent for $225 on the White House’s discounted drug website, TrumpRx. The administration also said the company will spend $27 billion on research, development and manufacturing in the United States. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told lawmakers that the administration plans to share contract details with Congress only to the extent it can do so without disclosing proprietary information.

Trump order reclassifies medical marijuana as Schedule III

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump’s administration has reclassified medical marijuana as a less dangerous drug, moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III. The order, signed Thursday by the acting attorney general, applies to how federally regulated agencies treat state-licensed medical marijuana, but it does not legalize marijuana under federal law.

More people addicted to marijuana, fewer seek help, experts say

2026-04-24

More Americans have developed cannabis use disorder as marijuana has become more normalized and available, experts told The Associated Press. They said relaxed access and high-potency products may be contributing to rising addiction, even as the share of people seeking treatment has declined.

Trump acting AG signs order shifting state medical marijuana to Schedule III

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump’s acting attorney general, Todd Blanche, signed an order on Thursday reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, a policy shift sought by advocates for years. Blanche said the change would allow research into the safety and effectiveness of cannabis used for medical purposes, while licensed operators would also receive a major federal tax break.

RFK Jr. tells Congress vaccines, Medicaid cuts, affordability are linked to budget

2026-04-23

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended President Donald Trump’s proposed 2027 budget in House and Senate hearings that stretched across multiple days, telling lawmakers he faced cuts that were “painful” but necessary to address the federal government’s record $39 trillion deficit. In the exchanges, Kennedy also disputed accusations over measles outbreaks and vaccination declines, and he rejected Democrats’ arguments about nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade.

Cassidy weighs RFK Jr. vaccine rollback amid Louisiana reelection fight

2026-04-23

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy questioned Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in two Senate hearings on affordability, fraud and vaccine-preventable diseases, while also managing political fallout ahead of a competitive GOP primary. As a liver doctor who supported Kennedy’s nomination last year, Cassidy pressed Kennedy on issues including measles outbreaks and the administration’s approach to chemical abortion drugs.

RFK Jr. deflects blame on vaccines as HHS budget cuts draw scrutiny

2026-04-22

RFK Jr., the U.S. health secretary, wrapped up a marathon set of congressional hearings in which lawmakers pressed him on falling childhood vaccination rates, measles outbreaks and proposed cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services. In testimony that spanned multiple House and Senate committees, he blamed broader factors for vaccination declines, called some cuts “painful” but said they were needed to address the federal government’s record $39 trillion deficit, and pointed to administration initiatives he said could reduce health-care costs.

As RFK Jr. faced the Senate, Sen. Cassidy weighed vaccines and politics

2026-04-22

Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy used two Senate hearings Wednesday to press Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on childhood vaccines and related health policy, drawing on his background as a liver doctor while also managing fallout in a tight Louisiana primary race. Cassidy questioned Kennedy about affordability, alleged fraud, abortion drugs and the rise of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, while also pointing to declining vaccine trust and expected outbreaks. Political analysts said how Cassidy handled the hearings could shape his reelection prospects as President Donald Trump backed one of Cassidy’s GOP primary opponents.

Kennedy Center to close July for two-year renovation amid water damage

2026-04-22

The Kennedy Center said it plans to shutter the venue starting in July for a two-year renovation, citing severe water damage and the need to replace some long-used building systems. Matt Floca, the center’s new executive director and chief operating officer, described the repairs as extensive but aimed at an overall reset of the facility’s condition.

Psychedelic retreat safety: what the booming industry gets wrong

2026-04-22

Hundreds of psychedelic retreat operators offer multiday trips where attendees pay for drug-assisted experiences. A new JAMA Network Open study and other experts warn that, despite some safety procedures, retreats carry risks and often operate with few industrywide standards.

Flu vaccine no longer mandated for U.S. troops, Hegseth says

2026-04-22

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Tuesday the U.S. military will no longer require all American troops to get the flu vaccine, citing “medical autonomy” and religious freedom. In a video he posted online, Hegseth said service members would be free to get the vaccine but would not be forced “because your body, your faith and your convictions are not negotiable.”

As RFK Jr. faced the Senate, Bill Cassidy balanced politics and science

2026-04-21

In two Senate hearings on Wednesday, Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy questioned Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about his plan to roll back the nation’s childhood vaccine recommendations, while Cassidy also weighed the risks to his own reelection campaign in Louisiana. Cassidy, a physician who has supported Kennedy’s nomination, pressed Kennedy on issues including affordability, fraud, chemical abortion drugs and the rise of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles.

Women reshape whiskey industry as distillers and innovators advance

2026-04-20

Women are taking leadership roles in the traditionally male-dominated whiskey industry as more women become distillers, blenders, and business owners while female consumption rises. The shift represents a significant transformation in an industry long perceived as exclusively male, with women now launching brands, managing operations, and earning recognition for innovation.

Trump signs order to accelerate psychedelic drug reviews including ibogaine

2026-04-18

President Donald Trump on Saturday directed his administration to speed reviews of psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine, a substance with documented health risks that has been embraced by combat veterans and conservative lawmakers seeking treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid addiction. The executive order directs the Food and Drug Administration to issue national priority vouchers for three psychedelics, potentially cutting review times from months to weeks — the first time the FDA has offered that fast-tracking to any psychedelics.

Trump's dyslexia remarks stir anguish among people with learning disability

2026-04-18

President Donald Trump's remarks linking California Gov. Gavin Newsom's dyslexia to low intelligence stirred anguish and anger among people with the learning disability and supporters across the political spectrum. Trump called Newsom "stupid," "low IQ," and "mentally disabled," claims that conflict with research showing dyslexia and intelligence are unrelated and that undermine years of efforts to reduce stigma around a condition affecting an estimated 20% of the world population.

Beef tallow and salmon sperm gain popularity as natural skin care

2026-04-18

Beef tallow moisturizers and salmon sperm facials are gaining popularity among consumers seeking natural alternatives to synthetic skin care products, even as dermatologists and cosmetic chemists say these products lack robust medical evidence of effectiveness. The products, which range from balms made from organ fat of beef cattle to treatments administered at high-end spas, are increasingly available on social media, at farmers' markets, and through online retailers. Some experts attribute their rise partly to growing consumer concerns about chemicals in personal care products and messaging from the Make America Healthy Again movement that emphasizes natural foods and products.

AP releases weekly news quiz covering week's major stories

2026-04-17

The Associated Press released its weekly news quiz on Wednesday, featuring major stories from across seven news categories. The quiz tested readers' knowledge on U.S. and world news, along with reporting on oddities, health, technology, religion, sports and entertainment.

Kennedy clashes with Democrats over vaccines and race at House hearing

2026-04-17

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday for the first time since September, defending a proposed cut of more than 12% to the Department of Health and Human Services budget while trading sharp exchanges with Democrats over vaccine policy and remarks he made during his 2024 presidential campaign. The session opened a planned sprint of seven budget hearings Kennedy is scheduled to attend across congressional committees and subcommittees over the following week.

PepsiCo pivots Gatorade toward non-athletes as wellness drink sales surge

2026-04-16

PepsiCo said Thursday that Gatorade, the 61-year-old sports drink it owns, is pivoting away from its core athletic identity to target everyday consumers seeking hydration benefits such as electrolyte replacement. The announcement came as unit sales of sports drink mixes rose nearly 20 percent in the year ending March 22, according to market research firm Circana, while bottled water sales were flat in the same period. New product packaging will highlight the science behind Gatorade's lineup, and a new drink blending glycerin and electrolytes is planned for release in 2027.

Trump nominates Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, as CDC director

2026-04-16

President Donald Trump nominated Erica Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general with military and medical credentials, to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday — the third person nominated to head the Atlanta-based agency since Trump returned to office in January 2025.

Colombia authorizes euthanasia protocol for about 80 hippos descended from Escobar

2026-04-15

El gobierno colombiano autorizó el lunes un protocolo para practicar la eutanasia a unos 80 hipopótamos descendientes de los ejemplares introducidos de forma ilegal por Pablo Escobar en la década de 1980. La ministra de Ambiente, Irene Vélez, firmó la directiva y dijo que las medidas se aplicarían en el segundo semestre del año, ya con un nuevo presidente en funciones desde el 7 de agosto.

FDA to weigh easing limits on unproven peptides favored by RFK Jr.

2026-04-15

The Food and Drug Administration announced Wednesday it will convene an outside advisory panel in July to consider whether seven unapproved peptide injections should be cleared for production by compounding pharmacies, and said it will soon remove the substances from its restricted list of high-risk, unapproved drugs. The announcement follows repeated pledges by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to loosen regulations on peptides, a class of compounds popular among wellness influencers that have not been reviewed for safety by the FDA.

Walmart redesigns Great Value packaging to spotlight nutrition, ingredients

2026-04-15

Walmart announced Wednesday it will redesign packaging across its Great Value store brand — 10,000 products in all — placing nutritional information in a standardized location and updating product photography to make items more visually appealing. The overhaul is the brand's first full redesign in more than a decade, and new packaging will begin appearing on store shelves next month, according to Scott Morris, senior vice president of Walmart's U.S. private brands division. The changes affect packaging only; the products inside remain unchanged.

US fluoride shortage linked to Middle East war disrupts supply

2026-04-14

A portion of the nation’s drinking-water systems have reported trouble maintaining recommended fluoride levels amid disruptions to the supply chain tied to the Middle East war, the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies said. Fluoride is used to help prevent tooth decay, and some utilities have lowered levels as a result. Dentists and public-health experts said people in affected areas should keep brushing with fluoride toothpaste and maintain dental appointments.

Lululemon probed by Texas AG over PFAS in athletic wear

2026-04-14

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced a probe into Lululemon over whether the company’s athletic clothing contains PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Paxton said the inquiry will examine Lululemon’s “restricted substances” list, testing protocols and supply-network practices. Lululemon said it stopped using PFAS in early 2024 and is cooperating with the investigation.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s celebrity approach marks 100 days in office

2026-04-11

Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Friday marked his first 100 days in office in New York City, blending day-to-day governance with celebrity-style attention that has drawn both supporters and critics. The Associated Press reports that crowds have shown up to his news conferences, he has used viral content and high-profile guests to promote city programs, and he has begun new public-health moves tied to jail detainees.

White House updates vaccine panel rules to reflect Kennedy skepticism

2026-04-11

The Trump administration updated the charter for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine advisory committee, a move critics said could expand the influence of anti-vaccine activists. The changes, published Thursday, followed a legal setback that halted meetings of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, at least temporarily.

Texas hemp industry sues to block smokeable hemp ban and higher fees

2026-04-09

Texas cannabis businesses and hemp-industry groups sued Texas state agencies in Travis County to block new rules that they say effectively eliminate smokeable hemp products and raise licensing fees. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday, seeks a temporary restraining order against the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Texas hemp businesses sue state health agencies to block smokeable ban

2026-04-08

Texas cannabis businesses and hemp industry groups sued Texas state health agencies to block new smokeable hemp regulations that they say effectively eliminate natural smokeable hemp products and raise licensing fees. The plaintiffs asked a Travis County district court for a temporary restraining order, arguing the agencies rewrote statutory definitions of hemp set by the Legislature in 2019.

Doctors urge women to be wary of the marketing surge in menopause products

2026-04-08

Doctors say social media and aggressive advertising are pushing menopause and perimenopause products, from supplements to “light masks,” at a time when women are seeking help for symptoms such as hot flashes and sleep problems. In interviews, physicians urged people to talk with doctors about what has been proven to help and what could cause side effects.

Judge dismisses PETA lawsuit challenging AKC health “standards”

2026-04-08

A New York judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals over the health of French bulldogs and other brachycephalic or long-backed dog breeds associated with the American Kennel Club. The judge said a New York law cited by PETA was misapplied because PETA is not subject to the AKC’s authority. The American Kennel Club said it prioritizes canine health, while PETA said its lawyers were assessing legal options.

California dairy producer recalls raw cheese during probe of an E. coli outbreak

2026-04-04

Raw Farm of Fresno, California, said it is voluntarily recalling more than a half-dozen varieties of its cheddar cheese made from raw milk as federal health officials investigate an E. coli outbreak linked to people who reportedly consumed the products. The California producer said it initially refused to recall and is acting “under protest” while the U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigates.

EPA proposes listing microplastics, pharmaceuticals as drinking-water contaminants

2026-04-03

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed for the first time to include microplastics and pharmaceuticals on a federal list of contaminants in drinking water, a step that could lead to new limits for water utilities. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the proposal is meant to respond to Americans concerned about plastics and medicines in tap water and is tied to the MAHA agenda promoted by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

McDonald’s to simplify McValue menu with 10 items under $3

2026-04-03

McDonald’s is revamping its McValue value menu, replacing the current system with a simplified lineup of 10 items that start under $3 beginning April 21. The menu includes breakfast options and select lunch and dinner items priced under $3, the company said Tuesday.

FDA approves Eli Lilly’s oral GLP-1 weight-loss pill for obesity

2026-04-02

Federal regulators on Wednesday approved Eli Lilly’s orforglipron, a once-daily oral GLP-1 medication for obesity, the company said. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted expedited approval as part of a program aimed at speeding up drug reviews, and Lilly said the pill, branded Foundayo, is expected to begin shipping Monday. Prices with insurance may start at $25 per month with a Lilly discount card, while cash prices will range from $149 to $349 per month depending on dose.

CDC pauses rabies and monkeypox diagnostic testing for dozens of diseases

2026-04-02

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has paused dozens of types of diagnostic lab testing, according to a list posted by the agency this week. The pauses include tests for rabies and monkeypox, among other infectious diseases, and a senior industry figure said it is not fully clear why the CDC is taking multiple tests offline.

Hershey to return to classic Reese’s recipes for all products

2026-04-02

Hershey said it will shift to classic recipes for all Reese’s products starting next year, after criticism from Brad Reese, the grandson of the inventor of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Hershey said that move includes products now made with a coating containing less chocolate. The company also outlined other recipe and business changes in its sweets portfolio for next year, including transitioning to natural colors and boosting research and development.

Corn tortillas in California must now contain folic acid

2026-04-01

California’s new requirement for folic acid in corn masa flour for tortillas and other products takes effect as state regulators seek to reduce neural tube defects. The measure follows advocacy after a rare birth defect claimed the life of Andrea Lopez’s son, Gabriel Cude, when he was 10 days old. Similar efforts are under way in other states, while critics including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have challenged fortification in social media posts.

California moves to fortify corn masa flour with folic acid

2026-04-01

California has become the first U.S. state to require corn masa flour manufacturers to add folic acid, a vitamin linked to preventing neural tube defects, state law says. The measure is aimed at reducing rates that data show are disproportionately high among Hispanic mothers, where some neural-tube defects can be diagnosed only weeks after conception.

Stanley Family Foundation gift tops $1 billion for Broad Institute research

2026-04-01

The Stanley Family Foundation said it has pledged another $280 million to the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at the Broad Institute, bringing the family’s total giving to more than $1 billion. The gift, announced in the wake of decades of support tied to one family member’s experience with bipolar disorder, will fund seven additional years of research aimed at understanding the origins of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Things to know if you’re thinking of pregnancy later in life

2026-04-01

More women in the U.S. are having babies at older ages, and doctors say “advanced maternal age” can raise the chances of pregnancy complications for both mothers and babies. An Associated Press report highlights what clinicians recommend before conception, during pregnancy and around delivery, including steps to improve overall health and to discuss prenatal screening and monitoring.

Dietary supplement makers press FDA to broaden ingredients to peptides

2026-03-29

Makers of dietary supplements are urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to expand what qualifies as a dietary ingredient, potentially opening the door to more peptide, probiotic and other “trendy wellness” products. The FDA held a public meeting Friday on whether its longstanding dietary-supplement criteria could be broadened to include substances that do not come from food, vitamins, herbs or other traditional ingredients.

Jury finds Meta and YouTube liable in landmark child-safety cases

2026-03-27

A jury in Los Angeles found Meta and YouTube liable for harms to children who used their services, and a jury in New Mexico found Meta knowingly harmed children’s mental health and concealed what it knew about child sexual exploitation. The verdicts, reported by the Associated Press, add to a growing body of court battles over whether social media platforms can be held responsible for features plaintiffs say were designed to be addictive and harmful to young users.

Shot-up windows still in place at CDC headquarters more than 7 months after attack

2026-03-27

More than seven months after an Aug. attack on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters left windows riddled with bullets, the federal government has not yet replaced the damaged “blast-resistant” windows, the agency’s acting chief said March 25. Dr. Jay Bhattacharya told employees that replacement work is under way, with officials saying each window must be custom-made and installation depends on weather.

Jury finds Meta and YouTube liable; pediatricians urge parent “talk first”

2026-03-27

A California jury found both Meta and YouTube liable for mental health harms tied to children using their platforms, in what the Associated Press described as the first-of-its-kind lawsuit centered on social media addiction. Pediatric and child mental health experts told AP that the verdict should prompt families to talk with children about what they see online and to tailor phone and app boundaries to each child’s needs.

Casey Means’ surgeon general nomination stalled as senators question her

2026-03-26

Wellness influencer Dr. Casey Means’ nomination to be U.S. surgeon general is stalled about a month after senators questioned her vaccines and health views during a tense confirmation hearing, deepening uncertainty about her path to a full Senate vote. Senators said they still had questions for Means, while White House and Kennedy-aligned supporters said she has the credentials and message to advance President Donald Trump’s health agenda.

Casey Means’ surgeon general nomination stalled as senators question her

2026-03-25

Wellness influencer Dr. Casey Means’ nomination to be U.S. surgeon general has stalled a month after senators from both major parties grilled her on vaccines and other health issues during a confirmation hearing. Senators questioned her experience and her stance on vaccines, and two Republicans on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee said they still had hesitations. The White House and supporters said the process is moving through “productive conversations” with the Senate.

FDA warns ImmunityBio over Anktiva cancer claims made by Soon-Shiong

2026-03-25

Federal health officials on Tuesday issued a warning letter to ImmunityBio after challenging what they said were misleading marketing claims about Anktiva, including comments by biotech billionaire Patrick Soon-Shiong on a podcast. The FDA said the statements promoted uses beyond the bladder-cancer indication and portrayed the drug as a “cancer vaccine” without required risk and side-effect information.

Popular anti-obesity drugs must be paired with healthy habits, experts say

2026-03-24

Americans’ use of GLP-1 drugs is rising, but experts say the medications work best when paired with lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, sleep and stress management. An Associated Press review cites survey data from KFF and medical experts who warn against treating a prescription as the full treatment.

FDA warns ImmunityBio over Anktiva claims by Patrick Soon-Shiong

2026-03-24

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned ImmunityBio that marketing materials and podcast remarks by biotech billionaire Patrick Soon-Shiong for its bladder cancer drug Anktiva violated federal rules on drug promotion, according to an FDA letter posted online Tuesday. The FDA said the statements created a misleading impression by suggesting the drug could treat, cure or prevent cancers beyond bladder cancer and by calling it a “cancer vaccine.” The company said it plans to work with the agency.

New parents shun proven newborn preventive care in push for “natural”

2026-03-22

Parents refusing newborn vitamin K shots and other routine preventive measures are increasingly citing “natural” birth philosophies and misinformation online, pediatricians say. Doctors warn the refusals are spreading beyond vaccines and into care meant to prevent bleeding and eye infections in the first days of life.

FDA issues notice on recall of Taro children’s ibuprofen liquid

2026-03-21

Nearly 90,000 bottles of children’s liquid ibuprofen were recalled after reports of black specs and other contaminants, federal regulators said. The FDA posted an online notice about the recall of Taro Pharmaceuticals’ Children’s Ibuprofen Oral Suspension.

FDA approves high-dose Wegovy shots at 7.2 milligrams weekly

2026-03-21

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved a new higher-dose version of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy weight-loss injection: a 7.2-milligram shot taken once weekly. The FDA said the decision used its ultra-fast drug review program and that the higher dose is expected to be available at U.S. pharmacies in April.

RFK Jr. says diet can “cure” schizophrenia and diabetes. Experts push back

2026-03-20

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the health secretary in the Trump administration, has promoted healthy eating and gone further in recent appearances by saying diet can “cure” conditions including schizophrenia and diabetes. Doctors and public health advocates say the claims overstate the science, warning that some patients could delay or stop proven treatment. In interviews and statements, researchers and psychiatric leaders urged careful language such as remission and emphasized that patients should consult their clinicians before changing diet or medications.

Dachshunds surge into AKC top 5 as French bulldogs’ rise cools in U.S.

2026-03-19

Americans still rank French bulldogs, retrievers and German shepherds among their favorites, but dachshunds have surged into the AKC’s top five for the first time in more than two decades, according to American Kennel Club rankings released Wednesday. The annual list reflects puppies and older purebreds added to the AKC’s registry last year, and it does not cover mixed-breed dogs or many popular designer crosses.

World Happiness Report ranks Finland happiest again as social media hurts youth

2026-03-19

The World Happiness Report 2026, released Thursday, says heavy social media use is linked to lower well-being among young people, with the biggest concerns in teenage girls in English-speaking countries and Western Europe. The report also ranks Finland the happiest country in the world for the ninth straight year.

Kouri Richins convicted in husband’s fentanyl death in Utah trial

2026-03-18

Kouri Richins, a Utah real estate agent, was found guilty of aggravated murder in the March 2022 death of her husband, Eric Richins, after jurors concluded she slipped fentanyl into his cocktail. Prosecutors told jurors the death followed a pattern of alleged financial fraud and a prior attempt to poison him, including a fentanyl-laced sandwich. Sentencing is scheduled for May 13.

Federal judge halts RFK Jr. vaccine agenda momentum as administration vows appeal

2026-03-18

A federal judge in Boston temporarily halted key steps in Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vaccine agenda, issuing an order that said Kennedy disregarded long-standing government procedures for reconstituting a scientific committee that advises the CDC. The Trump administration said it will appeal, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche calling the decisions “lawless” and writing on social media that the rulings have been reversed in the courts. The decision comes as Kennedy’s allies in the “medical freedom” movement celebrated earlier moves that Kennedy made soon after taking office.

Doctors warn against taping mouth shut for better sleep

2026-03-15

Social media has promoted a “mouth tape” trend in which people tape their mouths shut at night to sleep better, reduce snoring and improve breathing, but doctors say the idea is not supported by strong evidence. Experts warn that taping could cause harm, including worsening sleep apnea or creating a suffocation risk, and they advise addressing the reason someone is mouth-breathing.

Judge blocks US changes to vaccine recommendations for children

2026-03-15

Federal judge Brian E. Murphy on March 16 temporarily blocked U.S. health officials from cutting the number of vaccines recommended for every child and said Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. likely violated federal procedures in reshaping the vaccine advisory panel. The order halted decisions by the reconstituted Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and postponed a meeting of the panel in Atlanta this week.

Judge temporarily blocks changes to U.S. childhood vaccine recommendations

2026-03-15

A federal judge on Monday temporarily blocked the U.S. health department from cutting the number of vaccines recommended for most children, pausing parts of a policy overhaul led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The ruling also put on hold a Kennedy-appointed advisory committee’s work, including a meeting in Atlanta that was scheduled for this week.

E. coli linked to Raw Farm raw milk cheddar sickens 7 in US

2026-03-15

Federal health officials said Monday that at least seven people in three states were sickened by E. coli food poisoning linked to cheddar cheese made with raw milk from California-based Raw Farm. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said illnesses were reported between September 2025 and mid-February, including infections in children 3 and younger, and advised consumers to consider not eating the products.

What experts say about whether expensive shampoos are worth it

2026-03-15

A new Associated Press report looks at what dermatologists say about pricey shampoos and conditioners, including when higher-priced products can make sense and when they do not. Experts advised consumers to focus on ingredients and their hair and scalp needs—rather than on marketing or packaging—while consulting a doctor when dandruff or itchiness does not improve.

How to decide whether you need a water filter

2026-03-15

Most tap water in the United States is generally safe to drink without a home filtration system, experts say. The Environmental Protection Agency sets health standards for more than 90 contaminants in public water systems, and utilities treat water before it reaches homes. Still, some residents—particularly those in older buildings or those with private wells—may choose to test and, if needed, treat for specific concerns.

Kennedy Center to shut down for two years, installs Matt Floca

2026-03-15

The Kennedy Center’s board voted Monday to shut down operations for two years, saying it will do so following this summer’s July 4 celebrations. The decision also includes installing Matt Floca as the center’s chief executive and executive director, replacing Richard Grenell.

Restaurants add smaller portions as diners manage budgets and appetite drugs

2026-03-14

Restaurants are increasingly offering smaller portions, from new “Mini Meals” at local spots to chain menus aimed at customers using GLP-1 weight-loss and diabetes drugs and shoppers seeking lower-priced, calorie-conscious options. The approach ranges from specialized menus at some restaurants to limited “lighter portions” selections at others.

FDA approves leucovorin for folate-transport disorder, walks back autism hopes

2026-03-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a generic version of leucovorin for a rare genetic condition that limits folate delivery to the brain, while retracting earlier statements from President Donald Trump and other administration officials that the drug could help people with autism. FDA officials said the evidence for autism support was limited and that a study previously used to support the broader claim was retracted.

FDA says leucovorin lacks evidence for autism benefit

2026-03-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a generic form of leucovorin on March 10 for a rare genetic disorder that impairs folate delivery to the brain. The approval comes after the agency walked back statements made by President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that the drug could help a sizable share of children with autism. FDA officials said the review was narrowed to the ultra‑rare condition and noted that a study once cited to support the autism claim had been retracted.

FDA Limits Autism Drug Approval to Rare Genetic Condition

2026-03-13

The Food and Drug Administration approved leucovorin for a rare brain disorder on Tuesday, but sharply narrowed its use and retracted earlier claims by President Donald Trump and other officials that the drug showed promise for autism.

Biased kidney test fix credits Black candidates with waiting time

2026-03-13

A policy ordering hospitals to re-check past results from a race-based kidney function test appears to be improving access for some Black patients on transplant waiting lists, new research reports. The study found thousands of Black transplant candidates received credit for time they had lost under the now-ended test, potentially raising priority for those who might have qualified sooner. The findings were published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

St. Clair County public health board fights fluoride, vaccines amid leadership shakeup

2026-03-12

St. Clair County, Michigan, has become the center of a public fight over fluoride and childhood immunizations as county officials consider changes that critics say would expand the influence of county medical director Dr. Remington Nevin. Nevin and supporters argue the county’s public health choices should reflect local values and democratic control. Opponents, including health professionals and a NAACP leader, say the moves could undermine science-backed prevention.

FDA vaccine chief Vinay Prasad exits agency for the second time in under a year

2026-03-07

Dr. Vinay Prasad, the Food and Drug Administration's top vaccine and biotechnology regulator, will leave the agency at the end of April — his second departure in less than a year — FDA Commissioner Marty Makary announced in an email to staff late Friday. Makary said Prasad would return to his faculty position at the University of California, San Francisco. The announcement follows a string of high-profile disputes between the FDA and pharmaceutical companies, including a public fight with Moderna over an mRNA flu vaccine and a clash with a gene-therapy company developing an experimental treatment for Huntington's disease.

Tylenol use drops among some pregnant women after Trump's autism claim

2026-03-05

A study published in The Lancet links a White House briefing by President Donald Trump promoting unproven autism-related messaging to a change in how some pregnant patients sought Tylenol and how leucovorin was prescribed for children. Researchers found Tylenol orders for pregnant emergency department patients were 10% lower than predicted after the briefing, while prescriptions for leucovorin for children aged 5 to 17 were 71% higher than expected.

GLP-1 drugs linked to lower addiction risk in large VA study

2026-03-04

Diabetes medications including Ozempic and Mounjaro were associated with meaningfully lower risks of developing substance use disorders — and of dying from them — in a large analysis of Veterans Affairs health records published Wednesday in *The BMJ*. The study, drawing on data from more than 600,000 VA patients with diabetes over three years, found GLP-1 receptor agonists reduced addiction risk across alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, nicotine and opioids compared with other blood-sugar-lowering medications. For people already struggling with addiction, starting a GLP-1 drug was linked to a 50% lower risk of death, a 39% lower risk of overdose and a 25% lower risk of suicidal thoughts or attempts, according to the study.

Pediatric hospital screens for reading ability as literacy rates lag

2026-03-01

For some young children in Columbus, Ohio, reading assessments begin not in the classroom but in the doctor’s office. Nationwide Children’s Hospital has started screening children’s literacy skills as early as age 3 during pediatrician visits, aiming to spot reading struggles early and guide parents. The program, launched in 2022, screens more than 2,400 children and works through clinic-based literacy coordinators who create at-home practice plans.

Black fathers train as doulas to help address racial disparities in maternal health

2026-02-28

A new push in the United States aims to reduce racial disparities in maternal deaths by training Black fathers as “doulas” and birth supporters. In Indianapolis, JaKobi Burton attended appointments and classes through Dads to Doulas while his wife, Crystal Wilmot-Burton, prepared for a high-risk pregnancy. Organizers say increased paternal involvement—and doctors’ willingness to include fathers—can help Black patients get listened to during labor and pregnancy.

Olympian and running guru Jeff Galloway dies at 80

2026-02-28

Jeff Galloway, who popularized a run-walk-running method for marathons and everyday jogs, died Wednesday at age 80, his family said. A hemorrhagic stroke led to emergency neurosurgery in Pensacola, Florida, where he died, daughter-in-law Carissa Galloway said.

FDA plans bonuses for staff who finish faster drug reviews

2026-02-28

The head of the Food and Drug Administration said the agency plans to offer bonus payments to drug reviewers who complete reviews ahead of schedule, in what he described as a pilot program. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary told staff during a Thursday presentation that the first quarterly bonuses would begin around August.

More organs are being donated after the heart stops, not brain death

2026-02-28

Most organ donations in the United States used to come from people declared brain-dead. Now, research says organ donations after a heart stops—known as donation after circulatory death, or DCD—have risen sharply and account for 49% of deceased donors last year, up from 2% in 2000.

Target to stop selling cereals with synthetic colors by end of May

2026-02-27

Target will stop selling cereals with synthetic colors by the end of May, the company said Friday, citing years of reformulating items with national brands and its private labels. The Minneapolis retailer said 85% of its cereal sales already come from products made without synthetic dyes. Target also said it will no longer carry brands that do not reformulate, though it did not name which ones.

U.S. and Congo sign $1.2 billion health partnership

2026-02-27

The United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a $1.2 billion health partnership, according to a joint statement from the countries’ governments. The U.S. Department of State said it would provide up to $900 million over five years to support programs targeting HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, and to reduce maternal and child mortality.

Surgeon general nominee grilled over vaccines and qualifications

2026-02-26

Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer and entrepreneur, faced sharp questions from senators on Wednesday during a Senate health committee hearing on her nomination to become the next U.S. surgeon general. Means, 38, said during the hearing in Washington that the country should address chronic disease by focusing on shared root causes rather than “reactive sick care.”

Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital renamed to boost pediatric care in Tennessee

2026-02-26

Dolly Parton is lending her name to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, which announced Thursday it will become the Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital. In a video message, Parton said she wants to help when “children and families need it most,” and hospital leaders said the change reflects support aimed at improving pediatric care in the region.

FDA proposes new approval pathway for rare-disease customized therapies

2026-02-26

Federal health officials laid out a proposal Monday to create a new regulatory pathway for customized treatments for patients with rare, hard-to-treat diseases, including certain gene-editing therapies. The FDA said it would take public comments for 60 days before finalizing draft guidance.

California program sends birthday cards to babies treated for botulism

2026-02-26

California’s Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program sends hand-drawn birthday cards to babies who have been treated for infant botulism, a rare disease that can be deadly but is now treatable. The program, which mails about 200 cards each year, has included dozens of U.S. babies affected by an outbreak linked to contaminated ByHeart infant formula in recent months, according to the AP.

Refill stores and other options aim to cut packaging waste

2026-02-26

Refill stores have spread as consumers and retailers look for practical ways to reduce packaging waste, with stores offering customers the chance to bring containers and refill soap, shampoo and cleaning supplies. But experts say whether refilling delivers climate and waste benefits can depend on what refilling replaces, how often containers are reused and whether the routine fits into everyday life.

RFK Jr. backs U.S. pesticide production after years opposing glyphosate

2026-02-26

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now a top U.S. health official, publicly endorsed a Trump executive order aimed at boosting glyphosate production, a herbicide ingredient he previously criticized for years as an environmental lawyer. In a statement posted Sunday evening, Kennedy called pesticides “toxic by design” but said the order would bring agricultural chemical production back to the United States and reduce reliance on adversarial nations.

Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital renamed in Tennessee philanthropy

2026-02-25

Dolly Parton has lent her name to a Tennessee hospital focused on pediatric care, which said the change is meant to transform treatment for children and families across the state. The East Tennessee Children’s Hospital announced Thursday it will be known as Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital.

States sue Trump administration over vaccine rollback

2026-02-24

More than a dozen states sued the Trump administration on Tuesday over its rollback of childhood vaccine recommendations, calling the move an illegal threat to public health. The states argued that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put children's lives at risk when it announced in January that it would stop recommending all children be immunized against the flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, some forms of meningitis, and RSV. Under the new guidance, protections against those diseases are now recommended only for certain groups deemed high-risk or when doctors recommend them through what is called "shared decision-making."

Education Department transfers grant programs to HHS and State

2026-02-23

The Education Department announced new agreements transferring grant programs to the Health and Human Services Department and the State Department, the latest step in the Trump administration's strategy to reshape federal education policy through the redistribution of functions to other agencies. Education Secretary Linda McMahon framed the moves as progress toward the administration's stated goal of reducing the department's role.

Utah mom Kouri Richins to face monthlong trial over husband’s death

2026-02-21

A Utah mother of three, Kouri Richins, is scheduled to go on trial in a monthlong case accusing her of killing her husband, Eric Richins, in March 2022. The Associated Press reported she self-published a children’s book in 2023 that prosecutors have pointed to as evidence, after which she was charged with murder. Jury selection is complete and a 12-person jury will decide her fate in the trial beginning Monday in the area outside Park City, Utah.

FDA drug approvals: Makary and Prasad say one study will be enough

2026-02-21

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to drop its long-standing requirement that new drugs and other novel health products prove their benefits with two rigorous studies, opting instead for a “default position” of one study going forward. FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary and Dr. Vinay Prasad, a top deputy, laid out the change in a Wednesday New England Journal of Medicine piece aimed at speeding access to some medical products.

California parole board’s drug-test approach undermines addiction treatment

2026-02-20

California’s parole board is using drug test results from medication-assisted treatment in ways doctors and state-appointed attorneys say conflict with medical policies and may discourage incarcerated people from getting help, according to records reviewed by CalMatters and distributed by The Associated Press. Physicians and lawyers said the tests can produce false positives and that, when results are treated as decisive, some people fear a mistake could cost them their freedom.

Grandson of Reese’s inventor accuses Hershey of hurting the brand

2026-02-19

The grandson of H.B. Reese, the inventor of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, accused The Hershey Co. of damaging the brand by shifting some ingredients to cheaper alternatives. Brad Reese said in a Feb. 14 letter to Hershey that several Reese’s products now use compound coatings instead of milk chocolate and peanut crème instead of peanut butter.

FDA will consider Moderna's mRNA flu vaccine after all

2026-02-19

Moderna said the Food and Drug Administration will reconsider its application for a new mRNA flu vaccine after a public dispute between the two agencies. The FDA’s decision, expected by Aug. 5, follows a “refusal to file” letter that blocked the company’s first-of-its-kind shot.

NIH chief Bhattacharya to temporarily run CDC while Trump seeks a director

2026-02-19

National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya will temporarily serve as acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an administration official said Wednesday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the appointment had not been announced publicly.

RFK Jr. pledged transparency, but some federal health data still missing

2026-02-16

A year after U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pledged “radical transparency” for federal health agencies, the Associated Press found that multiple types of health information have been delayed, deleted or stopped. AP cited examples spanning abortion surveillance data, overdose tracking, smoking-related surveys, food-safety pathogen monitoring, and certain HIV and transgender-related information removed from government websites.

Impulso por separar el autismo profundo busca más apoyo y servicios

2026-02-16

En Estados Unidos, crece el impulso por crear un diagnóstico separado para el llamado “autismo profundo”, una categoría para personas que necesitarían cuidados constantes de por vida y que hablan poco o nada. El movimiento busca que familias como la de Connor y Ronan Murphy reciban los apoyos y servicios alineados con sus necesidades, mientras investigadores y defensores debaten si una etiqueta específica podría reducir la atención sobre el espectro en general.

Indian Health Service to end mercury dental fillings by 2027

2026-02-16

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Indian Health Service said this month it will phase out the use of dental fillings containing mercury, known as dental amalgams, and fully switch to mercury-free alternatives by 2027. The change will affect millions of patients served by the federal agency for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, where the percentage receiving amalgams has already fallen in recent years.

Separate “profound autism” diagnosis raises questions about support and stigma

2026-02-16

US experts and advocates are weighing whether people who need constant lifelong care should receive a separate “profound autism” diagnosis, as autism definitions have widened and many services lag behind demand. The debate centers on whether a new label would help match clinical research and provider training to high-needs patients—or whether it would divert attention from support needs across the broader autism spectrum.

Trust in U.S. health agencies appears to be eroding under RFK Jr.

2026-02-16

A year after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was sworn in to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, surveys and medical groups say trust in federal health agencies such as the CDC is falling. Kennedy has said his changes are meant to “restore transparency” and empower families to make their own decisions, while doctors and public health organizations say the approach has promoted misinformation and confusion about vaccines.

Genetic analysis could speed restoration of iconic American chestnut

2026-02-14

A genetic study published Thursday in the journal Science says researchers can use DNA testing to identify American chestnut trees likely to resist the disease that drove the species to functional extinction in the 1950s. The approach could shorten the time needed to plant the next generation of trees, potentially helping restore the tree’s historic range in the eastern United States.

Study suggests exercise could improve survival for colon cancer patients

2026-02-14

A randomized international trial found that a structured exercise program after chemotherapy reduced cancer recurrence and lowered deaths among people with treatable colon cancer. The results were presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual meeting in Chicago and published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

To resurrect venerable American chestnuts, scientists turn to genetic testing

2026-02-13

Scientists say genetic analysis could greatly speed efforts to restore American chestnut trees that were functionally wiped out in the mid-20th century by a deadly fungal blight and root rot. A new study in the journal Science reports that testing individual trees for disease-resistance genetic markers could shorten the time needed to plant disease-resistant generations and grow more competition in Eastern forests. The research is led by Jared Westbrook of the American Chestnut Foundation, with commentary from forest biotechnology professor Steven Strauss and other experts weighing in on what the approach could mean for the future of the species.

Democratic-led states sue Trump over $600M health grant cut plans

2026-02-13

Four Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block planned cuts to about $600 million in public health grants, according to a lawsuit filed in federal court. The Department of Health and Human Services told Congress it planned to withhold the funding allocated to California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota, starting as soon as Thursday in some cases, the suit and state officials said.

Federal law on impairment-detection devices in new cars faces delays

2026-02-13

A federal law requiring impairment-detection technology in new vehicles cleared a funding hurdle but remains stalled as regulators weigh how ready the devices are for deployment. Lawmakers last month defeated a Republican effort to strip funding from the law, known as the Halt Drunk Driving Act.

FDA approves first blood test for colon cancer screening for average-risk adults

2026-02-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Monday approved a first-of-its-kind blood test for colon cancer screening, opening a noninvasive option for adults 45 and older at average risk. Guardant said the test, called Shield, can be ordered as a laboratory test and that FDA approval is expected to increase insurance coverage.

Thailand begins using birth-control vaccine on wild elephants to curb conflicts

2026-02-13

Thailand has begun using a birth-control vaccine on wild elephants to try to slow the growth of a population that increasingly encounters people as farms expand into forests, according to the government’s wildlife office. The program includes a trial on domesticated elephants and, in late January, the vaccination of three wild elephants in Trat province, with authorities now deciding which other areas to target. The move follows recent deadly human-elephant conflicts and comes amid criticism that it could undermine conservation efforts.

Cancer diagnoses rise in adults under 50, study finds increases in breast, colon

2026-02-12

Cancer rates among Americans under 50 have risen for multiple cancer types, according to a new U.S. government analysis that looked at diagnoses from 2010 to 2019. The National Cancer Institute study found the largest increases in breast, colorectal, kidney and uterine cancers, with more than half of early-onset cases occurring in women.

Could gene editing offer a one-time fix for artery-clogging cholesterol?

2026-02-12

Scientists are testing gene-editing approaches that aim to permanently lower “bad” LDL cholesterol by switching off genes in the liver. The early studies involve small numbers of participants, and experts caution that safety and long-term effects remain uncertain. For now, the American Heart Association says people should focus on established lifestyle steps and, when needed, cholesterol-lowering medicines.

Thai coffee chains pledge to cut default sugar content by half

2026-02-12

Beginning Wednesday, nine major coffee chains in Thailand pledged to cut the default sugar content in some coffee and tea drinks by half as part of a government initiative aimed at reducing excess sugar consumption. The Health Department says the average Thai consumes 21 teaspoons of sugar per day—more than three times the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of six teaspoons—and warns that high intake raises the risk of obesity, diabetes and other diseases.

Kennedy Center head warns of staff cuts and “skeletal” teams during closure

2026-02-12

Richard Grenell, the president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, warned staff in a memo that the Kennedy Center expects cuts and “skeletal” staffing as it prepares to close for a two-year renovation. In the message, Grenell said departments would operate on a smaller scale, with some units reduced or paused before preparations to reopen in 2028.

Melania Trump joins children’s patients at NIH for early Valentine’s Day

2026-02-12

Melania Trump visited the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health on Wednesday, celebrating an early Valentine’s Day with children and young adults receiving treatment for rare and serious diseases. During the visit, she said, “I don’t eat much sweets,” adding that “Sugar is not that healthy for us.”

Moderna says FDA will not consider its mRNA flu vaccine application

2026-02-11

Moderna said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is refusing to consider its application for a new flu vaccine made with mRNA technology. The company said FDA sent it a “refusal-to-file” letter after objecting to how Moderna conducted a 40,000-person trial comparing the vaccine with a standard flu shot.

FDA to reassess BHA safety as additive review targets broader chemicals

2026-02-11

FDA said Tuesday it will reassess the safety of BHA, a preservative used in foods such as potato chips, cereals, frozen meals and meat products. The agency issued a new request for information and said its review will consider whether BHA is safe under its current conditions of use.

Hims & Hers cancels plan for Wegovy knockoff amid FDA warning

2026-02-08

Hims & Hers said it will stop offering a compounded version of Novo Nordisk’s newly sold Wegovy weight-loss pill, two days after announcing the plan. The company said it made the change after conversations with stakeholders, after the FDA threatened to restrict access to ingredients used to copy popular GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy, Ozempic and Zepbound.

Health officials warn against raw milk after newborn’s listeria death in N.M.

2026-02-08

New Mexico health officials warned people this week to avoid unpasteurized dairy after a newborn died from a listeria infection likely linked to the mother drinking raw milk during pregnancy, officials said. Investigators said they could not determine the exact cause but said the most likely source of infection was unpasteurized milk.

US births dipped in 2025 as CDC fills provisional data gaps

2026-02-08

US births fell slightly in 2025, according to newly posted provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC said just over 3.6 million births have been reported through birth certificates, about 24,000 fewer than in 2024. The agency said data is still being compiled and the final total could add only a few thousand more births.

Cortisol: Doctors say most people don't need to worry about it

2026-02-08

Cortisol is a stress-related hormone that helps the body function normally, but doctors say most people do not need to test or try to “lower” it with supplements. They warn that over-the-counter products and one-off cortisol tests can create unnecessary anxiety and follow-up care. Instead, doctors advise people to see a clinician if symptoms raise concerns and to focus on basics of stress management.

Pot addiction exists: What to know about cannabis use disorder and treatment

2026-02-08

In many states where recreational or medical marijuana is legal, addiction clinicians warn that some people can develop cannabis use disorder. The condition can affect daily life, health and relationships, and is diagnosed using criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

FDA relaxes rules for food labels that claim 'no artificial colors'

2026-02-05

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Thursday it will allow food labels to say “no artificial colors” if products are free of petroleum-based dyes, even when they contain color additives derived from plants and other natural sources. The agency said the change replaces a previous standard that required products to have “no added color whatsoever.” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the label shift is meant to encourage companies to use natural colors instead of synthetic dyes.

Hims launches a Wegovy pill knockoff; Novo Nordisk vows legal action

2026-02-05

Hims & Hers said it will launch a compounded, lower-priced pill version of Wegovy, just weeks after Novo Nordisk’s reformulated Wegovy became available. Novo Nordisk said it will take legal and regulatory action, calling Hims’s product an unapproved “knockoff” of semaglutide.

Forever chemicals expose private well owners as testing remains spotty

2026-02-05

Private drinking wells leave millions of Americans vulnerable to PFAS contamination, an Associated Press investigation says, because federal testing rules mainly cover public water systems. The AP reports that many well owners learn about contamination only after it has spread near industrial sites, and that states’ policies for private-well testing vary widely. In Wisconsin, one family’s PFAS discovery has led to years of investigation and concern, with limited state resources for grants and well replacement.

Trump administration says 15 Medicare drugs will cost less starting in 2027

2026-02-05

The Trump administration says pharmaceutical companies agreed to lower Medicare prices for 15 prescription drugs, a deal it estimates will save taxpayers and Medicare beneficiaries billions. The negotiated pricing takes effect in 2027, while a first round of 10 drugs negotiated under President Joe Biden’s administration takes effect in January.

Caviar and McNuggets? McDonald’s launches Valentine’s Day surprise kit

2026-02-05

McDonald’s is rolling out a limited-time “McNugget Caviar” kit for Valentine’s Day, pairing a one-ounce tin of Paramount Siberian sturgeon caviar with a $25 gift card to buy McNuggets. The free kit, available Feb. 10 at McNuggetCaviar.com, also includes crème fraîche and a caviar spoon, the company said.

Coca-Cola to discontinue Minute Maid frozen juices in US and Canada

2026-02-05

Coca-Cola said it is discontinuing Minute Maid frozen juice concentrates in the United States and Canada, ending sales in a category it said has shifted as customers increasingly prefer fresh options. The company said the frozen products will be discontinued by April, with remaining inventory available while supplies last.

House lawmaker raises new concerns about FDA’s drug voucher program

2026-02-05

Rep. Jake Auchincloss, a Massachusetts Democrat, sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration raising new concerns about the agency’s “National Priority Voucher” program, which is intended to shorten review times for certain drugs. Auchincloss questioned whether the FDA has legal authority to run the program without Congressional action, and he sought information about ethics disclosures for senior officials involved in voucher decisions.

Merck’s experimental enlicitide pill sharply lowered LDL in study

2026-02-05

Researchers reported Wednesday that Merck’s experimental cholesterol-lowering pill, enlicitide, sharply reduced LDL cholesterol in high-risk patients who remained above goal despite statin therapy. The pill lowered LDL by as much as 60% over six months, researchers reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. The company is seeking FDA review, and an FDA program offers “ultra-fast reviews,” according to the report.

Trump administration announces new addiction initiatives including STREETS pilot

2026-02-03

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Monday that the Department of Health and Human Services will devote $100 million toward a pilot program tackling homelessness and substance abuse in eight cities. The initiatives, unveiled at a SAMHSA “Prevention Day” event, build on a Trump executive order signed last week focused on addiction.

Gates Foundation stays course on global health despite foreign aid cuts

2026-02-02

The Gates Foundation said it will narrow its priorities rather than change course as the U.S. and other countries reduce foreign assistance, focusing at least 70% of its funding over the next 20 years on ending preventable maternal and child deaths and controlling key infectious diseases. Chief executive Mark Suzman said in a letter released Tuesday that the foundation is not taking on new goals and is renewing its push for donor countries to keep funding global health.

After molding health policy, MAHA eyes reshaping EPA environmental rules

2026-02-02

After Lee Zeldin, newly named EPA administrator, announced new restrictions on five chemicals on New Year’s Eve, the Make America Healthy Again movement is now pressing for broader environmental changes at the agency. Advocates say they have gained unusually direct access to EPA leadership as part of a broader political alliance tied to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Trump-era shifts. EPA officials say a “MAHA agenda” coming in coming months will respond to priorities raised by MAHA advocates and communities.

Doctors share guidance on how to use a bidet safely

2026-02-02

Bidets are becoming more common in the U.S. as people look for alternatives to toilet paper, including for certain medical situations. In an updated health guide published this week, doctors say bidets can help with issues like irritation from wiping, but they also caution that improper use and maintenance can cause other problems.

South’s carpet industry has a toxic forever chemical legacy

2026-02-01

A major investigative collaboration reported that PFAS used to make stain-resistant carpets contaminated waterways and drinking water across the South, with effects that can persist for decades. The investigation links PFAS contamination to carpet mills in northwest Georgia, where workers used the chemicals starting in the 1970s, and to the spread of those compounds through manufacturing wastewater and the Conasauga River.

CDC says U.S. life expectancy hit a record high in 2024

2026-01-30

The U.S. life expectancy rose to 79 years in 2024, the highest mark in American history, the CDC said this week. The agency attributed the gain to the fading of the COVID-19 pandemic and to declining death rates from major causes such as heart disease, cancer and drug overdoses.

Botulism bacteria found in milk powder linked to ByHeart formula outbreak

2026-01-28

Organic whole milk powder linked to the ByHeart baby formula outbreak—which has sickened 51 infants in 19 states—tested positive for the bacteria that causes botulism, according to the Associated Press. The contaminated powder was supplied by Organic West Milk Inc., a California company, and processed at a Dairy Farmers of America facility in Fallon, Nevada, though officials said the source of the contamination remains unknown.

Dr. William Foege, architect of smallpox eradication, dies at 89

2026-01-27

Dr. William Foege, a leader in the global effort to eradicate smallpox, died Saturday in Atlanta at age 89, the Task Force for Global Health said. He led the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the late 1970s and early 1980s and helped develop a “ring containment” strategy used in the final push to eliminate the disease.

Dr. William Foege, smallpox eradication leader, dies at 89

2026-01-26

Dr. William Foege, who led the global campaign that eradicated smallpox, died Saturday in Atlanta. He was 89. The Task Force for Global Health, which he co-founded, announced his death. Foege's work on smallpox eradication — a disease that once killed about one-third of those it infected — stands among the greatest public health achievements. His "ring containment" strategy, developed while working as a medical missionary in Nigeria in the 1960s, became the cornerstone of the worldwide eradication effort.

Unapproved peptide injections: what to know about the wellness trend

2026-01-24

Unapproved peptide injections have become a popular “wellness hack,” promoted online by influencers, fitness coaches and celebrities, even as regulators warn many such products lack evidence of safety and effectiveness. A closer look at the science and the hype finds that many injectable peptides are not approved for use in humans, and experts raise concerns about possible allergic reactions, metabolic problems and other side effects.

FDA traces powdered milk to ByHeart baby formula outbreak

2026-01-24

Testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found evidence Friday that powdered whole milk used in ByHeart infant formula may be the source of a botulism outbreak that sickened 51 babies in 19 states beginning in December 2023, according to federal health officials. The FDA detected the dangerous bacteria in samples of the milk powder and found that the contamination matched samples collected from sick infants and from unopened ByHeart formula cans.

FDA leans toward approving Zyn reduced-risk marketing claims

2026-01-22

The Food and Drug Administration is moving toward approving Philip Morris International's request to market Zyn nicotine pouches as a less-harmful alternative to cigarettes, according to government documents reviewed at a public FDA meeting Thursday. The agency is considering whether to allow health claims about Zyn's reduced risk of mouth cancer, heart disease, lung cancer and stroke. But a panel of independent experts raised pointed questions about whether the company's research demonstrates that marketing claims would actually persuade smokers to switch, and whether the promotion could inadvertently appeal to teenagers. "There are very few things that are legally available and worse for you than cigarettes," said Lisa Postow, a panel member and scientist at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. "It's a pretty low bar to be safer than cigarettes."

Guinea-Bissau suspends hepatitis B vaccine study for ethics review

2026-01-22

Guinea-Bissau is suspending a Trump administration-backed hepatitis B vaccine study on newborns, pending an ethical review, Health Minister Quinhi Nantot announced Thursday. The decision comes amid concerns that the research was designed to withhold a protective vaccine from some infants, raising fundamental questions about research ethics in developing nations.

Kennedy Center faces cancellations as artists withdraw amid leadership turmoil

2026-01-21

The Seattle Children's Theatre and the vocal ensemble Vocal Arts DC are among the latest artistic groups to cancel Kennedy Center performances. The cancellations follow the Trump administration's recent ousting of the Kennedy Center's leadership and an announced plan to rename the institution the Trump-Kennedy Center, a change scholars say requires congressional approval. Multiple artists, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Issa Rae, and Bela Fleck, have already withdrawn in protest.

Chess grandmaster Naroditsky died of accidental overdose, report says

2026-01-21

Chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky died from an abnormal heartbeat caused by an accidental overdose of multiple drugs, according to a toxicology report released Tuesday by North Carolina authorities. Naroditsky, 29, was found dead at his Raleigh home in October. The report said he tested positive for methamphetamine and kratom, an opioid-related substance increasingly found in energy drinks, gummies and supplements.

Portland infant sickened by recalled ByHeart formula donated to vulnerable families

2026-01-19

A 10-month-old Portland, Oregon, boy remains on a feeding tube and is relearning how to crawl and talk after contracting infant botulism from ByHeart baby formula his mother received through a charitable program serving poor and homeless families. Ashaan Carter was hospitalized twice — for nearly two weeks in November, then again in December — after an Oregon Department of Human Services caseworker provided the formula days before a nationwide product recall. His case is among more than 50 infant botulism infections across the United States linked to ByHeart products.

FDA commissioner's expedited drug review plan sparks alarm at agency

2026-01-18

The Food and Drug Administration is facing legal, scientific and ethics concerns over a new expedited drug review program that aims to speed up approval for medicines tied to President Donald Trump’s administration, according to current and former agency staff members. The concerns center on who has the authority to sign off on approvals cleared through the “National Priority Voucher” program and how the expedited pathway is being applied for deadlines, staff said.

U.S. diet guidelines urge higher protein; experts question the shift

2026-01-18

The U.S. released updated federal dietary guidelines that advise Americans to “prioritize protein foods at every meal” and to increase daily protein intake to as much as double previous recommendations, the Associated Press reported. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the government was “ending the war on protein.” Several nutrition experts questioned whether most people need to raise protein consumption that much and warned it could lead to higher fat intake and diabetes risk.

FDA fast-track drug voucher program sparks legal questions and internal turmoil

2026-01-16

The Associated Press reported that the FDA’s “National Priority Voucher” program to speed drug reviews is drawing legal questions and alarm among some agency staffers, who say decisions are being moved away from career scientists and toward political leadership. The report said senior FDA officials raised concerns about who can legally sign off on expedited approvals, and that the program is tied to White House drug-pricing efforts.

US flu activity falls for second week, but experts warn season is not over

2026-01-16

U.S. flu activity declined for a second consecutive week, with the number of states reporting high flu activity falling from 44 to 36, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data released Friday. Flu hospitalizations dropped sharply, and medical office visits for flu-like illness also fell. COVID-19 and RSV have not seen large winter surges.

Lancet review of 43 studies finds Tylenol in pregnancy doesn't raise autism risk

2026-01-16

A review of 43 studies published Friday in *The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health* found that taking acetaminophen — sold in the United States as Tylenol — during pregnancy does not increase the risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disabilities, adding to a body of research that contradicts claims promoted by the Trump administration. President Trump last year told pregnant women "Don't take Tylenol," citing what the administration characterized as evidence linking the painkiller to autism.

FDA fast-track voucher drug reviews spark legality, staff concerns

2026-01-15

The Associated Press reports that a new FDA fast-track program tied to Commissioner Marty Makary is sparking legal concerns among top officials and anxiety within the agency’s drug-review center. The AP said agency staffers worry the program could shift key approval decisions away from career scientists and into the hands of political leadership, amid ties to the White House’s drug pricing push.

HHS cuts, then restores $2 billion in mental health and substance abuse grants

2026-01-15

The Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday restored nearly $2 billion in federal grants to substance abuse and mental health service providers after abruptly terminating the funding two days earlier, leaving roughly 2,000 organizations scrambling to reverse layoffs and other emergency measures already set in motion. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration notified grant recipients of the restoration Thursday morning, hours after a separate 2 a.m. email reiterating the original cuts was confirmed to have been sent in error.

US overdose deaths fell 21% through mid-2025, but pace of decline is slowing

2026-01-15

An estimated 73,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in the 12-month period ending August 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Wednesday, down about 21 percent from the 92,000 deaths recorded in the prior 12-month period. The figures extend the longest sustained decline in overdose deaths in decades — but researchers said the pace of improvement has begun to slow.

Trump signs school milk bill as geopolitics dominates Oval Office ceremony

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump signed the "Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act" at the White House on Wednesday, but the Oval Office ceremony became a vehicle for a series of unrelated announcements — including Trump's claim that Iran had halted plans for mass executions, the arrest of a leaker he connected to Venezuela, and the signing of executive orders on semiconductor and rare earth mineral tariffs. The dairy legislation arrived near the end of the event, with a glass bottle of whole milk placed on the Resolute Desk going untouched throughout.

NIOSH workers reinstated after mass layoffs gutted federal workplace safety agency

2026-01-14

Federal health officials confirmed Wednesday that laid-off workers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health are being reinstated, months after the Trump administration eliminated close to 900 of the agency's roughly 1,000 employees. The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents NIOSH staff, said all terminations have been rescinded. A Department of Health and Human Services spokesman confirmed the reinstatements but did not say how many workers would return.

Trump signs law returning whole milk to school cafeterias

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act on Wednesday, allowing schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and 2% fat milk for the first time since 2012. The signing reverses Obama-era restrictions that had limited cafeteria milk to skim and low-fat varieties. The change will affect meals served to roughly 30 million students enrolled in the program.

Food companies target GLP-1 drug users with unregulated 'friendly' labels

2026-01-14

Food companies are affixing "GLP-1 Friendly" labels to frozen meals, smoothies and snacks to court the growing number of Americans on weight-loss drugs — but the labels carry no regulatory standard, and dietitians warn that the marketing can mislead consumers about what the products actually provide.

Public mistrust drives first drop in US kidney transplants in over a decade

2026-01-14

Organ donations from the recently deceased fell in 2025 for the first time in more than a decade, resulting in 116 fewer kidney transplants, according to an analysis released Wednesday by the nonprofit Kidney Transplant Collaborative. The organization attributed the decline to public mistrust following rare reports of patients prepared for organ retrieval while still showing signs of life.

SAMHSA reverses $2 billion in mental health grants after abrupt cuts triggered layoffs

2026-01-14

The Trump administration reversed the cancellation of approximately 2,000 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grants representing nearly $2 billion in funding on Wednesday, hours after the abrupt Tuesday-night cuts had already prompted grant recipients to lay off employees and cancel services. Grant recipients told the Associated Press they had not yet received direct notification of the reinstatements by Wednesday evening, and the reason for the reversal was not made public.

Hawaiʻi weighs mandatory renewal tests after 129 road deaths in 2025

2026-01-14

Hawaiʻi lawmakers and a Honolulu city council member are considering whether to reinstate mandatory written tests at driver's license renewals, a practice the state abandoned in 1997, after 129 people died on Hawaiʻi roads last year — the highest toll in 18 years. A Honolulu City Council committee was set to take up the proposal Thursday afternoon.

Report: Errors led to deaths of two men prescribed methadone in prison

2026-01-14

Connecticut’s Office of the Inspector General released a report Monday finding that “significant medical errors” occurred when methadone was prescribed to Ronald Johnson and Tyler Cole at Garner Correctional Institution. The report said the initial doses were too high and were increased too quickly, with attention lacking to other prescribed medications that can heighten methadone’s respiratory-suppression effects.

FDA orders removal of suicide warnings from GLP-1 weight-loss drugs

2026-01-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday directed Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to remove label warnings about potential suicidal thoughts and behaviors from their blockbuster weight-loss medications, saying a comprehensive review found no elevated risk.

DeLauro slams HHS after SAMHSA grant cuts then reversals

2026-01-13

A top House Democrat on Wednesday criticized the Trump administration for canceling thousands of substance-abuse and mental health grants and then reversing course, after some recipients said they began cutting staff. Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, said the decision-making by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was “dangerous and haphazard.”

Trump signs bill allowing whole milk again in school lunches nationwide

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump signed a law Wednesday that overturns Obama-era limits on higher-fat milk options in school lunches, allowing participating schools to serve whole and 2% milk alongside required lower-fat products. The change could take effect as soon as this fall, officials said, and affects meals served through the National School Lunch Program to about 30 million students.

Federal judge orders HHS to restore $12M in pediatric grants, citing retaliation

2026-01-12

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore nearly $12 million in grants to the American Academy of Pediatrics on Sunday, finding that the Health and Human Services Department likely acted with a "retaliatory motive" when it terminated funding to the pediatric group in December. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell of Washington, D.C., issued a preliminary injunction siding with AAP, ruling that the group had shown it would likely suffer irreparable harm from the cuts and that the public interest favored allowing the programs to continue while the underlying lawsuit proceeds.

FDA approves at-home STD tests and new gonorrhea drugs as infection rates fall

2026-01-12

The Food and Drug Administration last year cleared the first at-home test capable of detecting three sexually transmitted infections in women — gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis — and approved two new drugs for gonorrhea, the first additions to that disease's treatment options in decades. The agency also approved a home-based screening kit for HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer. The advances arrive as CDC provisional data show 2024 marked a third consecutive year of declining gonorrhea cases in the United States.

Judge orders HHS to restore nearly $12M in AAP grants while case continues

2026-01-11

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore nearly $12 million in funding to the American Academy of Pediatrics as a lawsuit continues, according to a court decision. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell issued a preliminary injunction late Sunday in Washington, D.C., directing the Health and Human Services Department to reinstate seven grants that were terminated in December.

Pediatricians warn federal vaccine guidance changes sow confusion, could harm kids

2026-01-10

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. this week removed universal federal recommendations for childhood vaccines against six diseases, drawing immediate condemnation from pediatricians who said the changes will deepen vaccine hesitancy and lead to more illness and death. On Friday, the American Academy of Pediatrics and more than 200 medical, public health, and patient advocacy groups sent a letter to Congress demanding an investigation into why the schedule was altered and why scientific evidence was bypassed.

Vaccine schedule change uses ‘shared decision-making,’ doctors warn it could confuse

2026-01-10

The Associated Press reported that new U.S. childhood vaccine guidance replaces blanket recommendations for protection against six diseases with recommendations only for certain high-risk children or through “shared clinical decision-making” with a health care provider. Doctors who treat children in the U.S. said the federal changes and the new terminology are confusing parents and could make it harder for some children to get recommended shots.

US flu activity dips slightly as health officials warn severe season has not peaked

2026-01-09

U.S. flu activity showed a modest decline last week in two key measures — medical office visits for flu-like illness and the count of states reporting high activity — but federal health officials said the severe season has not peaked and warned that more suffering lies ahead. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated at least 15 million flu illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 7,400 deaths since the season began, including the deaths of at least 17 children. Even as some indicators eased, flu-related deaths and hospitalizations continued to rise during the same week.

Newsom proposes shifting California K-12 oversight from elected school chief to appointed board

2026-01-08

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday proposed reducing the authority of the state's elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction and placing day-to-day control of K-12 schools under the State Board of Education, an 11-member panel the governor appoints. Under the plan, the board would absorb the California Department of Education, which currently operates under the superintendent's direction, while the superintendent would shift to a broader advisory and coordination role across early childhood through postsecondary education.

Vermont reaffirms childhood vaccine schedule after CDC narrows federal list

2026-01-08

Vermont health officials reaffirmed the state's existing childhood immunization schedule Tuesday after the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved six vaccines out of its recommended category the previous day. Vermont Health Commissioner Rick Hildebrant told state lawmakers that vaccines for flu, RSV, meningococcal disease, and hepatitis A and B remain recommended or required for child care and school attendance in Vermont — unchanged from the schedule that preceded the federal action.

Ultraprocessed foods are everywhere. Experts weigh potential risks

2026-01-08

Ultraprocessed foods account for about 60% of the U.S. diet and an even larger share of what kids and teens eat, according to researchers and nutrition experts. As more studies link higher consumption of these foods with health problems, experts say the evidence so far often shows connections rather than proof that the processing itself causes harm.

Trump administration issues dietary guidelines urging whole foods, less sugar

2026-01-07

The Trump administration released updated federal dietary guidelines Wednesday, urging Americans to eat more whole foods and protein, sharply limit added sugars and highly processed foods, and reduce alcohol consumption. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins issued the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans at a White House briefing, drawing mixed reactions from nutrition and medical experts.

Vermont officials reaffirm childhood vaccine schedule amid CDC changes

2026-01-07

Vermont health officials said Tuesday they will continue to follow the state’s existing childhood immunization schedule after federal guidance was scaled back on childhood vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved six immunizations out of the “recommended” category, and Vermont officials and health experts said insurers would still cover the vaccines.

Michael Reagan, eldest son of President Ronald Reagan, dies at 80

2026-01-07

Michael Reagan, the eldest son of President Ronald Reagan and a conservative radio and television commentator, died Sunday, January 4, 2026. He was 80. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute announced his death Tuesday on the social platform X, saying no cause of death had been announced.

CDC makes broad childhood vaccine recommendation changes after Trump request

2026-01-06

U.S. health officials on Monday made broad changes to childhood vaccine recommendations, effective immediately, reducing the number of diseases recommended for all children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will now recommend routine vaccination against 11 diseases, down from 18 a year ago.

Trump administration releases 2025-2030 dietary guidelines emphasizing whole foods

2026-01-06

The Trump administration on Wednesday released the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, urging Americans to eat more whole foods and proteins while limiting highly processed foods and added sugars. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the guidance will shape federal nutrition programs and policies.

Trump’s vaccination “72 jabs” claim was not required, AP fact check says

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump, in social media posts about changes to U.S. childhood vaccination recommendations, shared a graphic and statement implying children would no longer need 72 “jabs,” an Associated Press fact check said. The AP said “72 injections were never ‘required,’” and that the government’s prior recommended schedule covered routine protection against 18 diseases spread across ages.

US cuts childhood vaccine recommendations to 11 diseases for all children

2026-01-06

The U.S. on Monday cut the number of vaccines it recommends for every child, effective immediately, moving protections for several diseases to only high-risk groups or to “shared decision-making” with doctors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will now recommend vaccination against 11 diseases for all children.

Family physicians say a written list is the key to getting the most from your doctor visit

2026-01-06

Patients of all ages — including physicians themselves — walk out of medical appointments having forgotten to raise a key concern, according to Dr. Sarah Nosal, president of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Her top recommendation: arrive at every primary care visit with a written list of symptoms and questions, the most urgent concern first, and hand it to the doctor at the start of the appointment.

Flu season rivals last winter's epidemic as subclade K drives holiday surge

2026-01-06

U.S. flu infections surged over the holiday period, with 45 states reporting high or very high activity during the week of Christmas — up from 30 states the prior week — and federal health officials warning that the season is severe and likely to worsen. New government data released Monday showed that by some measures the current season already rivals last winter's flu epidemic, one of the harshest in recent memory. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated at least 11 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths from influenza have occurred so far this season.

CDC narrows childhood vaccine schedule; pediatricians warn of health risks

2026-01-05

WASHINGTON — U.S. health officials on Monday narrowed federal childhood vaccine recommendations, reducing the number of diseases for which all children are urged to get vaccinated from 18 to 11, effective immediately. The Department of Health and Human Services said the overhaul came at the direction of President Donald Trump, who in December asked the agency to review vaccine practices among peer nations. The nation's major medical groups said they would not follow the new guidance and warned the rollback could increase preventable illness and death in children.

HHS narrows childhood vaccine schedule to 11 diseases; medical groups warn of preventable deaths

2026-01-05

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on Monday reduced the number of vaccines it recommends for every child, narrowing the universal schedule to 11 diseases — a move that leading medical organizations said would result in more hospitalizations and preventable deaths. The change, effective immediately, removes universal recommendations for vaccines against flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, certain meningitis strains, and RSV. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called it a step toward rebuilding public trust. Physicians' groups said it would put children's lives at risk.

US faith communities embrace ancient meditation practices

2026-01-05

In churches, synagogues and mosques across the United States, religious leaders and lay practitioners are increasingly introducing meditation practices rooted in traditions that predate modern Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The Associated Press reports that groups are blending techniques from Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism and Sufism with contemporary settings and languages, including in weekly gatherings and university chapel events.

AKC adds 3 dog breeds for 2026, including Teddy Roosevelt terrier

2026-01-04

The American Kennel Club added three dog breeds to its roster of recognized breeds on Tuesday, making them eligible for many U.S. dog shows. The newcomers are the basset fauve de Bretagne, the Teddy Roosevelt terrier and the Russian tsvetnaya bolonka, AKC said as fanciers look ahead to 2026.

Trump says CT scan, not MRI, was done at October Walter Reed visit

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump defended his energy and health in an interview with The Wall Street Journal and disclosed that he had a CT scan, not an MRI, during an October examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Trump said the advanced imaging was supposed to prevent questions about his health, and his physician said in a memo released in December that the imaging was “advanced imaging” used as a preventative screening for a man his age.

AKC adds three dog breeds for 2026, including a Teddy Roosevelt terrier

2026-01-03

The American Kennel Club on Tuesday added three dog breeds to its roster of recognized breeds, making them eligible for many U.S. dog shows starting in 2026. The new entries include a fauve-colored French hunting hound, a toy breed developed in Soviet-era Leningrad, and a terrier named for President Theodore Roosevelt.

US faith communities embrace ancient meditation practices

2026-01-03

In U.S. congregations, ancient meditation practices are being adopted and adapted in spaces that range from Episcopal churches and university chapels to Unitarian Universalist communities. The Associated Press describes groups that blend forms of breath work, chanting and other contemplative approaches from traditions including Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism and Sufism, while also seeing renewed interest in practices rooted in Christianity.

Trump says he had CT scan, not MRI, during October Walter Reed screening

2026-01-01

In an interview published Thursday, President Donald Trump defended his energy and health and said he had a CT scan, not an MRI scan, during an October examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. White House physician Navy Capt. Sean Barbabella said Trump underwent the advanced imaging as a routine preventive screening for a man his age.

Tatiana Schlossberg, Kennedy grandchild and journalist, dies at 35

2026-01-01

Tatiana Schlossberg, a journalist and grandchild of the late President John F. Kennedy, died at 35 after a battle with leukemia, her family announced Tuesday in a statement posted by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation. Schlossberg had written publicly about her diagnosis and treatment, and her work covered climate change and the environment.

US health policy reshaped under RFK Jr., triggering vaccine and science concerns

2025-12-31

President Donald Trump’s second-term health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has overhauled the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and changed agency guidance on topics including COVID-19 vaccines, according to Associated Press reporting. The first-year shakeups include job and research cuts at multiple agencies, alongside support from some backers of Kennedy’s Make America Healthy Again agenda. Many doctors and public health experts say the moves risk hollowing out U.S. scientific capacity.

Jazz group cancels New Year’s Eve show at Kennedy Center after renaming

2025-12-30

The Cookers, a jazz group, and Doug Varone and Dancers, a dance company, have canceled upcoming performances at the Kennedy Center, the latest withdrawals tied to the venue’s renaming and Trump’s involvement with its leadership. The Kennedy Center Honors Dec. 23 broadcast also drew about 35% fewer viewers than the previous year, and ticket sales have declined, according to the Associated Press.

US health policy reshaped in RFK Jr.’s first year at HHS

2025-12-30

President Donald Trump’s second-term health policy has been reshaped in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s first year leading the Department of Health and Human Services, according to an Associated Press review. Since February, Kennedy has overseen major staffing changes and research cuts at HHS and its agencies, and has pushed policy shifts on topics including vaccines, fluoride and diet.

US health policy dramatically reshaped under RFK Jr. in Trump’s second term

2025-12-29

The Trump administration’s second term has seen major changes at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who took office as health secretary in February. In a year marked by staffing reductions and shifts in health guidance, HHS has also promoted “Make America Healthy Again,” or MAHA, priorities while critics raised concerns about how vaccine policy and science roles are being handled.

Autoimmune diseases on the rise, mostly striking women; new immune therapies advance

2025-11-06

Autoimmune diseases affect tens of millions of Americans, strike women at roughly four times the rate of men, and are on the rise, according to the Associated Press. Researchers are testing dozens of new therapies — including a cancer treatment that has shown early promise against lupus and other conditions — in what specialists describe as a pivotal moment for the field.

Ice cream makers covering 90% of U.S. supply pledge to drop artificial dyes by 2028

2025-07-14

About 40 ice cream and frozen dairy dessert makers representing approximately 90 percent of the U.S. supply pledged Monday to remove seven petroleum-based artificial dyes from their products by 2028, federal health officials announced. The commitment follows similar pledges in recent weeks from companies including Nestle, Kraft Heinz and General Mills, as the Trump administration presses food manufacturers to eliminate synthetic dyes over concerns about potential health effects.