Amgen recently made a surprising hire for their new head of artificial intelligence, Dr. David Reese. Instead of choosing someone from the traditional healthcare or technology fields, Reese decided to look for talent outside of the box. His search led him to Nike, where he found the perfect candidate with a background in consumer products.
Dr. Reese’s unconventional choice highlights the growing importance of AI in the healthcare industry. With the increasing use of data and technology in patient care, companies like Amgen are recognizing the need for innovative thinkers from diverse backgrounds to lead their AI initiatives. By bringing in talent from outside the healthcare sector, Amgen is hoping to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to their AI projects.
This move by Amgen also reflects a broader trend in the industry towards hiring talent with diverse skill sets and experiences. As healthcare becomes more integrated with technology, companies are looking for individuals who can bridge the gap between traditional medicine and cutting-edge innovation. By tapping into talent from non-traditional fields, companies like Amgen are positioning themselves for success in the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
Overall, Amgen’s decision to hire an AI expert from Nike showcases the company’s commitment to innovation and willingness to think outside the box. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, companies that embrace diverse perspectives and talent will be best positioned to drive meaningful change and improve patient outcomes.
Last August, Amgen made a significant move by hiring Sean Bruich, a former Nike executive with 11 years of experience, as senior vice president for AI and data. This decision may seem unexpected, but it reflects the growing trend of pharmaceutical companies turning to AI to expedite drug discovery and improve operational efficiency. According to Forbes, Amgen recognizes that the top talent in AI is often found outside of the healthcare industry.
In the medtech sector, Science Corp., founded by Neuralink cofounder Max Hodak, recently secured a $104 million investment round led by Khosla Ventures. The company is focused on developing brain-related technologies, including brain-computer interfaces and a retinal implant that has shown promising results in restoring visual acuity in patients with conditions like macular degeneration.
A new study published in Nature Medicine revealed that medical large language models tend to make care recommendations based on socioeconomic factors rather than solely on medical necessity. The researchers found that these AI models often suggest better care for white, wealthy patients and more basic care for others, leading to potential health disparities and biased decision-making.
Attovia Therapeutics, a San Carlos-based biotech company, raised $90 million in funding led by Deep Track Capital to support its early-stage clinical trials for treatments targeting chronic pruritus and atopic dermatitis. This marks the company’s third funding round in just two years and underscores the growing interest in innovative biologics.
In the realm of public health and hospitals, federal health agencies are grappling with challenges and uncertainties, particularly in light of recent budget cuts. Mehmet Oz, the newly appointed head of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, has outlined his vision for the agency, while concerns about the integrity of healthcare datasets and IT systems persist.
Other notable developments include the closure of CDC’s hepatitis lab, the discovery of an LSD analogue with potential benefits for schizophrenia treatment, and the FDA’s warning about counterfeit medications entering the U.S. supply chain. Additionally, ongoing discussions about potential funding cuts to Harvard-affiliated hospitals raise questions about the broader impact on healthcare institutions.
As the healthcare industry continues to navigate these complex issues, it is clear that advancements in AI, medtech, and biopharmaceuticals will play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest trends and innovations in the healthcare sector. The Rise of Veganism: A Global Movement Towards Compassionate Living
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards veganism as a lifestyle choice around the world. People are becoming more aware of the impact that their food choices have on the environment, animal welfare, and their own health. This has led to a growing number of individuals choosing to adopt a vegan diet and lifestyle.
Veganism is a way of living that seeks to exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty, whether it be through food, clothing, or any other aspect of daily life. This includes not consuming meat, dairy, eggs, honey, or any other animal-derived products. Instead, vegans opt for plant-based alternatives that are cruelty-free and more sustainable.
One of the driving forces behind the rise of veganism is the growing concern for the environment. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss. By choosing to go vegan, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and help mitigate the effects of climate change.
Another key factor in the rise of veganism is the increasing awareness of animal welfare issues. Many people are becoming more conscious of the suffering that animals endure in the meat, dairy, and egg industries. By choosing to forgo animal products, vegans are taking a stand against animal cruelty and advocating for a more compassionate world.
Furthermore, there is a growing body of scientific research that supports the health benefits of a plant-based diet. Studies have shown that a vegan diet can help prevent and even reverse chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. By choosing to eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, vegans are nourishing their bodies with nutrient-dense foods that promote overall health and well-being.
The rise of social media and the internet has also played a significant role in spreading awareness about veganism. Influencers, bloggers, and celebrities have used their platforms to showcase delicious plant-based recipes, promote vegan products, and advocate for animal rights. This has helped to normalize veganism and make it more accessible to a wider audience.
In response to the growing demand for vegan options, businesses and restaurants have started to offer more plant-based menu items. Plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy products, such as plant-based burgers, non-dairy milks, and vegan cheeses, have become increasingly popular and widely available. This has made it easier for people to transition to a vegan diet and lifestyle without feeling like they are missing out on their favorite foods.
Overall, the rise of veganism can be seen as a positive step towards a more sustainable, compassionate, and healthy world. By choosing to go vegan, individuals are making a powerful statement about their values and beliefs. They are aligning their actions with their principles and working towards a more ethical and harmonious relationship with the planet and all its inhabitants. As veganism continues to gain momentum, it is clear that it is not just a passing trend, but a global movement towards a brighter and more compassionate future.
