As we enter the middle of the week, it’s time to catch up on the latest health and medicine news. Anil Oza, STAT’s Sharon Begley reporting fellow, is here to bring you today’s edition of Morning Rounds. From genetic mutations in camels to congressional races shaping health policy, there’s a lot to cover.
Let’s start with a fascinating study published recently that mapped genetic mutations in camels. This research could provide valuable insights into the unique physiology of camels, such as how they cope with heat stress. Understanding these genetic variations could have implications for both veterinary medicine and human health.
6 Congressional races to watch
The upcoming congressional races will play a crucial role in shaping health policy in the United States. With ambitious health goals set by both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, the outcome of these races will determine the path forward. STAT has identified six key races to keep an eye on, including:
- The tight race for control of the Senate, with incumbents like Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) facing tough challenges.
- The highly contested race involving Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz) and emergency room doctor Amish Shah, focusing on telehealth, A.I., and substance abuse treatments.
For more insights into these races and their potential impact on health policy, check out the detailed analysis by STAT’s Rachel Cohrs Zhang and Sarah Owermohle.
When ERs fail to identify teens at risk of suicide
Suicide is a significant concern among teenagers, with alarming rates of self-harm and suicidal thoughts. A recent study published in JAMA Open Network highlights disparities in identifying at-risk youth in emergency room settings. The study found that certain groups, including Black and Hispanic youths, were less likely to be classified as having a suicide-related emergency compared to others.
These findings underscore the need for improved screening protocols and interventions in emergency departments. The use of artificial intelligence algorithms to enhance risk assessment and support clinicians in identifying at-risk individuals is one potential solution. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support.
A safer way to take Eli Lilly’s Alzheimer drug?
Eli Lilly’s Alzheimer drug, Kisunla, has shown promise in slowing the progression of the disease. However, concerns about brain swelling and bleeding have limited its use. New data suggests that modifying the dosing regimen could reduce the risk of brain swelling, particularly in individuals with specific genetic variants.
These findings could have significant implications for the future of Alzheimer’s treatment and the competitiveness of Kisunla against other similar drugs. While more detailed results are awaited, this research offers hope for a safer and more effective approach to managing Alzheimer’s disease.
Digital avatars could help people with schizophrenia who hear voices
Individuals with schizophrenia often experience distressing auditory hallucinations that can significantly impact their quality of life. A novel therapy using digital avatars to externalize and engage with these voices has shown promising results in reducing distress and severity of symptoms.
This innovative approach reflects a broader shift in psychiatry towards understanding and addressing the experiences of individuals with mental health conditions. By empowering patients to confront and interact with their voices, digital avatar therapy offers a unique and personalized treatment option.
A family physician on providing abortion care
Abortion remains a contentious issue in healthcare, with ongoing debates and legislative measures impacting access to reproductive services. Family physician Christine Dehlendorf advocates for greater training and support for primary care providers in offering abortion care.
As abortion rights continue to be a focal point in political discussions, it is essential to recognize the importance of comprehensive reproductive healthcare and the role of primary care providers in delivering these services. Listen to Dehlendorf’s insights on abortion care in her recent conversation on the First Opinion Podcast.
What we’re reading
- Warren wants close FTC scrutiny of drug distributors buying cancer medical groups, STAT
- Exosomes are touted as a trendy cure-all. We don’t know if they work, MIT Technology Review
- Can zapping the brain help treat addiction? Wall Street Journal
- Health tech investments are picking up steam.
Stay informed with the latest updates and insights from the world of health and medicine. Sign up for Morning Rounds, STAT’s free newsletter, to receive your daily dose of health news delivered straight to your inbox.
Venture capital (VC) leaders play a crucial role in shaping the startup ecosystem by providing funding and strategic guidance to emerging companies. In recent years, several VC leaders have been behind some of the biggest deals in the industry. Let’s take a closer look at five of these influential individuals:
1. Mary Meeker – Mary Meeker is a prominent venture capitalist known for her annual Internet Trends report. She is a partner at Bond Capital and has been involved in several high-profile deals, including investments in companies like Airbnb, Slack, and Pinterest. Meeker’s keen eye for emerging trends and technology has made her a sought-after investor in the tech industry.
2. Bill Gurley – Bill Gurley is a general partner at Benchmark, a leading venture capital firm. Gurley has been instrumental in securing funding for companies like Uber, Snapchat, and Stitch Fix. His deep knowledge of the technology sector and his ability to identify promising startups have made him a key player in the VC world.
3. Kirsten Green – Kirsten Green is the founder of Forerunner Ventures, a VC firm focused on investing in consumer brands and technology companies. Green has made a name for herself by backing successful companies like Glossier, Warby Parker, and Dollar Shave Club. Her expertise in consumer trends and retail innovation has helped her stand out in the competitive venture capital landscape.
4. Peter Fenton – Peter Fenton is a partner at Benchmark and has been involved in several major deals in the tech industry. Fenton’s investments include companies like Twitter, Zendesk, and Docker. His strategic insights and deep understanding of the market have enabled him to make successful investments in promising startups.
5. Aileen Lee – Aileen Lee is the founder of Cowboy Ventures, a VC firm that focuses on early-stage investments in technology companies. Lee has a strong track record of backing successful startups like Dollar Shave Club, Rent the Runway, and Pinterest. Her hands-on approach and industry expertise have made her a trusted partner for entrepreneurs seeking funding and guidance.
These five VC leaders have played a significant role in shaping the startup ecosystem through their investments and strategic guidance. By backing innovative companies and helping them grow, they have made a lasting impact on the tech industry. As the startup landscape continues to evolve, these influential individuals will likely remain key players in driving innovation and growth in the VC world.
