Neural tube defects are among the most common causes of childhood mortality and disability. In its new draft recommendation, the US Preventive Services Task Force reaffirms that folic acid supplementation provides a substantial benefit for reproductive-aged women in reducing the risk of neural tube defects. The task force also highlights areas that require further study, including disparities in the prevalence of neural tube defects. We agree.
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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Statement of Dr. Diana Zuckerman, President, National Center for Health Research, March 8, 2023
Today the FDA announced that 19 women were reported in medical publications who developed squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in the capsule around breast implants. This is more than the 10 women that FDA reported in September. Several of the women died. It is important to know that 24 cases of SCC have been reported to […]
Read More »NCHR Comments on USPSTF Draft Recommendation Statement Regarding Screening for Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
March 6, 2023: We strongly support the US Preventive Services Task Force draft recommendations that all asymptomatic pregnant women be screened for high blood pressure throughout pregnancy. We appreciate the agency considering how screening will help prevent medical problems for mothers and babies that could be caused by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Read More »Fitness Tracking Apps and Eating Disorders
Belinda Gorsuch, National Center for Health Research December 15, 2022 It seems there is an app for everything. About 69% of adults track health indicators, such as steps, calories, and hydration [1]. But, has fitness tracking technology gone too far? Some believe our phones can help us improve our diet and exercise routines. Others claim […]
Read More »NCHR urges FDA to require more diversity in trials to improve accuracy of pulse ox devices
December 2, 2022: NCHR testified at an FDA meeting that there is strong evidence that commonly-used pulse oximeters are less reliable for patients with pigmented skin. The FDA’s current guidelines do not require product labeling to address the impact of skin pigmentation on pulse oximetry. While labeling is important to alert users to possible inaccuracies, it does not diminish the importance of developing devices that are effective for everyone.
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