Several popular new GLP-1 drugs, including Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro and Zepbound, help lose weight but do they improve health? In addition to unpleasant gastro-intestinal side effects, they can cause serious health problems such as stomach paralysis (gastroparesis), which can cause problems with anesthesia. They may cause thyroid cancer. Most information about the benefits of these drugs is from press releases, but FDA is now investigating some unexpected possible side effects, including substantial hair loss and suicidal thoughts.
Read More »Medical Care for Adults
The National Center for Health Research reviews important new research as soon as it is published. We cut through the hype regarding various medical treatments to let you know what is proven and what is unknown about the risks and benefits of various treatment options. We do not accept funding from the companies that make medical products, so you can trust that our information is based on science, and not biased by financial ties to the treatments we’re evaluating.
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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?
Read More »Artificial Sweeteners: Do They Help You Lose Weight or Gain it? Are they Safe?
When people want to treat themselves to something sweet without having to treat themselves to a larger pants size too, they often reach for low-calorie, artificial sweeteners. But do artificial sweeteners actually help you lose weight? The answer is apparently not — and there are concerns about their safety if consumed in large quantities.
Read More »Social Media and Adolescents’ and Young Adults’ Mental Health
Most teens and young adults use social media, and experts are asking if this use can harm mental health. Here’s what you need to know.
Read More »NCHR Comments on USPSTF Draft Recommendation on Breast Cancer Screening
June 6, 2023: The U.S. Preventive Services Task force has changed its recommendations for mammography to start at age 40 instead of 50. However, they still recommend mammograms every 2 years instead of every year. We point out that there are racial differences in cancer risk and that mammography guidelines should reflect those racial differences. One size does not fit all.
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