What to read around the web today
How a rare bone disease is shedding light on the biology of aging. (The New York Times)
Canada’s health care system is being tested in the pandemic — and some say it’s failing. (Kaiser Health News)
Why many Americans are opting to get their Covid-19 vaccines at pharmacies instead of doctors’ offices. (The Washington Post)
Living with rare diseases in the shadows of the pandemic. (The Wall Street Journal)
Thanks for reading! More tomorrow.Â
Conservatives have been implementing a new strategy to curb access to abortion pills, known as “rolling thunder.” This approach, detailed in a recent Politico article, involves a coordinated effort to limit the availability of these medications. The goal is to restrict access to abortion services and make it more difficult for individuals to obtain the pills.
In addition to the focus on abortion pill access, there has been a growing concern about cronyism within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). An article in The Atlantic highlights this issue, pointing out that political favoritism is influencing decision-making at the agency. Former NIH director Francis Collins has criticized the Trump administration for its “slash-and-burn” approach to science funding, which has had negative repercussions on research initiatives.
Internal records revealed by ProPublica show that the Trump administration continued to cut research grants at the NIH, even after a judge had blocked the cuts. This move has raised questions about the administration’s priorities and its commitment to supporting scientific research. Meanwhile, the state of antibiotic development has been described as “deplorable” in a report from STAT, underscoring the urgent need for new treatments to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
These articles shed light on the challenges facing the scientific community and the impact of political decisions on research and public health. It is essential for policymakers to prioritize evidence-based approaches and support initiatives that promote scientific innovation and discovery. The future of healthcare and medical advancements depends on a commitment to funding research and ensuring access to essential resources.