NCHR Intern, Author at National Center for Health Research

Testimony of Grace Drew at the FDA Advisory Committee Meeting on Imfinzi for Resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

July 25, 2024: At the FDA Advisory Committee meeting on a new indication for Imfinzi (durvalumab), NCHR pointed out that the AEGEAN clinical trial did not assess if Imfinzi is necessary both before and after lung tumor surgery. We strongly support the FDA scientists who stated that the trials need to be redesigned to determine whether Imfinzi both before and after surgery is more beneficial compared to Imfinzi either before or after surgery.

Can Children Get Exercise Through Video Games? (“Exergaming”?)

Laura Julstorm, Hana Rahman National Center for Health Research Active video games have become popular amongst children ages 6-17. Active games, or exergames, simulate real life physical activities like dancing, bowling, swimming, etc.,requiring players to move around. Exergames market themselves as a way to get off the couch, get active, and stay healthy. Active games […]

Questions remain about new drug for hot flashes

Leaps. Org, Jul 27, 2023: This news story discusses the May, 2023, FDA approval of fezolinetant (brand name Veozah™) to treat hot flashes caused by menopause. While the drug was shown to slightly reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes per day, NCHR and other experts question if these changes are sufficient to justify any risks and the high cost. We also suggest possible alternative strategies to deal with hot flashes.

The real costs of the new Alzheimer’s drug, Leqembi — and why taxpayers will foot much of the bill

KFF Health News/CBS News, Aug 1, 2023: CBS News says that the drug Leqembi for mild cognitive impairment and early Alzheimer’s is likely to cost taxpayers billions of dollars. We are among the policy experts who tell Medicare that all registry data need to be public to see if it is safe or effective. Will that happen?

Biden’s Crackdown on ‘Junk’ Plans: Minimal Impact on Payers

Health Payer Specialist, July 14, 2023: The White House proposes restricting “junk” health insurance policies to 3-4 months for emergencies, instead of 3 years. These health insurance policies are supposed to be for short-term emergency coverage, not to replace comprehensive health insurance. We explain that these inexpensive policies result in patients paying much more if they have any medical needs – or going without important medical care. Don’t be fooled by misleading ads for cancer coverage or other limited coverage.