US Mammogram Update Sparks Concern, Reignites Debates

Medscape, July 9, 2023:Medscape quotes experts disagreeing about what age (40? 50? to start mammograms and we point out that the science suggests different guidelines based on race and risk. Radiologists suggest Black women start at age 35, which would means $$$ for the radiologists but would do more harm than good for most women. USPSTF recommendations raise concerns about costs, accuracy, timing, and ensuring that abnormal mammograms result in biopsies to learn if treatment is needed.

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Alzheimer’s Drug Safety Hinges on Doctors Heeding FDA Warning

Bloomberg Law News, July 12, 2023: NCHR says the FDA black box warnings about brain swelling and bleeding and other cautions about who is most likely to be harmed by Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi will help protect patients with mild cognitive impairment, but only if their doctors pay attention and accurately discuss the risks vs. uncertain benefits with patients and family members.

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Alzheimer’s Patient Registry Raising Questions as Drug OK Nears

Bloomberg News, June 29, 2023: If Leqembi is approved for very early Alzheimer’s, CMS and NCHR explain how the Medicare registry will help patients make informed decisions about whether the benefits are likely to outweigh the risks for them for this expensive and risky treatment. But PhRMA and aligned patient groups complain.

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