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Good morning! We have some exciting news to share about new additions to the STAT team. We are delighted to welcome Chelsea Cirruzzo and Daniel Payne, who have joined as D.C. reporters. Daniel has already made a significant impact with his reporting since starting this spring, and we look forward to Chelsea’s contributions starting this week.
The week has been busy for the STAT biotech team, with coverage from the American Society of Clinical Oncology conference in Chicago. If you haven’t been following along, now is the time to catch up on the latest updates.
From start-up founder to DOGE’s invisible health care czar:
Meet Brad Smith, a key figure within the U.S. DOGE Service, known for his involvement in Trump 1.0’s Operation Warp Speed during the pandemic. Despite his significant impact on government-funded scientific research and disease prevention, Smith remains relatively unknown to the public. Tara Bannow’s in-depth profile sheds light on Smith’s career, characterized by a relentless pursuit of growth and profit targets. Learn more about Brad Smith’s journey to the top in Tara’s insightful piece.
New HHS document details deep NIH cuts:
President Trump’s budget request for the 2026 fiscal year, as outlined by HHS, includes drastic cuts to the NIH’s discretionary budget. The proposed restructuring of the agency, consolidating its 27 institutes and centers into eight, has sparked concerns among researchers and biopharma leaders. Jonathan Wosen and Daniel Payne provide a detailed analysis of the potential implications of these cuts on U.S. biomedicine.
$9.8 billion:
A recent study published in JAMA Health Forum projects the financial impact of banning fluoride in water, as seen in Utah and Florida. The study estimates a significant increase in dental costs and the prevalence of cavities among U.S. children. Anil Oza delves into the study’s findings and the potential implications for public health.
How mRNA became a government target:
Recent developments indicate a shift in government support for mRNA technology, once heralded for its role in developing Covid vaccines. Lizzy Lawrence and Isabella Cueto explore the growing skepticism towards mRNA technology and its potential consequences for future vaccine development. Learn more about the ongoing debate surrounding mRNA technology and its implications for public health.
Another Covid vaccine approval with restrictions attached:
The FDA’s approval of Moderna’s new Covid-19 vaccine comes with restrictions on its use, specifically targeting older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions. Helen Branswell provides insight into the FDA’s decision and the implications for vaccine distribution. Meanwhile, FDA commissioner Marty Makary’s recent statements on vaccine policies raise questions about the administration’s strategy.
Rethinking the culture of clinical detachment:
In a poignant First Opinion essay, Kate Solpari reflects on her experiences in hospitals and the importance of emotional connection in medical care. She challenges the notion of clinical detachment and advocates for a medical system that values emotional investment. Read about Solpari’s inspiring journey and the impact of compassionate care on patient outcomes.
What we’re reading:
Stay informed with the latest articles on healthcare and medicine:
– For trans people on Medicaid, Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ is anything but – Mother Jones
– HIV’s most promising breakthrough has taken a hit – The Atlantic
– Study finds exercise can keep colon cancer from recurring – STAT
– Abortion opponents are coming for mifepristone using what medical experts call ‘junk science’ – The 19th
– Combination treatment reduces risk of tumor progression in aggressive form of breast cancer, study shows – STAT
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