Harvard Medical School Background Staff
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The month of December has arrived, and there are some important headlines you may have missed over the weekend. A leaked FDA memo has raised concerns about Covid vaccines causing 10 deaths in children. However, experts have expressed skepticism about this claim due to the lack of detailed data. To learn more about this developing story, read the latest report from STAT’s Matt Herper and Helen Branswell.
Measles vaccinations have seen a significant increase globally, almost reaching pre-pandemic levels. Despite this positive trend, the number of measles cases has also risen, posing challenges in the fight against this highly infectious disease. The WHO’s annual report for 2024 sheds light on this issue, but it does not address the recent measles outbreaks in the U.S. and Canada. Find out more about the reasons behind the surge in measles cases despite higher vaccination rates in STAT’s coverage by Helen Branswell.
A recent survey published in Scientific Reports suggests that people may be overestimating their addiction to social media, particularly Instagram. While 18% of respondents admitted to feeling addicted to the platform, only 2% displayed symptoms of a true addiction. The study also highlights the impact of addiction language in shaping users’ perceptions of their social media usage. Learn more about this study and its implications for our understanding of social media addiction.
The rise of digital mental health services during the pandemic has been accompanied by the growing popularity of AI chatbots as a means of providing therapy and support. However, concerns have been raised about the potential risks associated with using chatbots for mental health care, including the development of delusions and even incidents of suicide. Companies in this space are working to address these challenges while harnessing the benefits of AI technology. Read more about the intersection of mental health apps and AI in STAT’s coverage by O. Rose Broderick.
The Trump administration recently announced lower drug prices for 15 medications as a result of Medicare negotiations, saving billions of dollars compared to previous costs. This move, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, marks a significant shift in drug pricing policy. While the negotiation provision was initially met with skepticism, the administration is touting these deals as a win for American consumers. Learn more about the implications of this development and the potential for bipartisan agreement in health policy in STAT’s analysis by John Wilkerson and Elaine Chen.
Benjamin Sievers, a vaccine researcher, opens up about his fear of needles, a common phobia that affects nearly a quarter of adults. This personal experience has shaped his perspective on the importance of needle-free vaccines and the need for alternative vaccination methods. Sievers argues that addressing needle phobia is essential for improving vaccination rates and public health outcomes. Discover more about his journey and vision for a future without needles in his compelling First Opinion essay.
Medical students in the U.S. are facing stricter limits on federal loans starting next summer, raising concerns about the financial burden of pursuing a medical education. A recent study published in JAMA highlights the impact of these loan caps on students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. With the rising costs of medical school, many students may struggle to afford their education under the new borrowing limits. Learn more about the challenges facing medical students and the implications of these changes in STAT’s in-depth analysis.
Stay informed with the latest news and insights from the world of health and medicine. From vaccine research to drug pricing policy, there are plenty of important stories shaping the future of healthcare. Don’t miss out on the latest updates – sign up for STAT’s Morning Rounds newsletter today.
