Seed oils actual science, STI spread, CDC mpox: Morning Rounds
The Senate Appropriations Committee recently grilled National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya during a hearing focused on the agency’s proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. However, the discussion quickly turned to more pressing matters, such as the departure of the acting director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. With outbreaks of hantavirus and Ebola looming, the lack of leadership raised concerns among committee members. Senator Patty Murray questioned whether the agency was better prepared for public health threats with reduced funding, fewer staff, and stalled research.
In another development, the Supreme Court dismissed an Alabama death penalty case involving Joseph Smith, who was sentenced to death in 1998. Smith, who has been challenging his execution since 2002, was spared due to concerns over his intellectual disabilities. The court’s decision not to review the case left the issue of assessing intellectual disability in death row inmates unresolved. Justice Clarence Thomas dissented, arguing that the decision against executing intellectually disabled individuals should be overturned.
Meanwhile, Eli Lilly reported promising results from a late-stage trial of a new weight loss drug that showed levels of weight loss comparable to bariatric surgery. However, the drug also exhibited high rates of side effects, leading to 11% of participants discontinuing treatment. The data raises questions about the drug’s appeal despite its potential effectiveness.
On the topic of seed oils, there has been growing concern about their impact on health, with some labeling them as the most unhealthy aspect of the American diet. Dietitian Cole Hanson delves into the scientific evidence behind these claims, offering a nuanced perspective on the issue.
A recent survey conducted by the Annenberg Public Policy Center highlighted gaps in public knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While most Americans understand the basic modes of transmission for common STIs, there is confusion around rarer pathways and vaccination. The survey revealed misconceptions about how STIs spread, with some respondents believing in unlikely transmission routes.
In a related development, the CDC’s webpage on monkeypox prevention was ordered to be taken down by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) over concerns about accuracy and alignment with administration priorities. This move follows previous directives to change terminology and revise information on vaccines and autism, sparking controversy within the public health community.
As the weekend approaches, stay informed with these key updates on health and medicine. Happy reading!
