September 28, 2017. We agree with FDA scientists that the data today do not indicate significant benefit in randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, such as Study 7. Only after making many post-hoc changes did ataluren show it was effective for ADP patients, but this was not replicated in Study 20. As you know, those post-hoc manipulations do not provide clear evidence of efficacy. For both studies, 90% and 79% of patients were White. But the CDC reports that Hispanic males are disproportionately likely to have these conditions. It is essential that an adequate number of Hispanic males be analyzed to determine if they can benefit from a treatment such as ataluren.
Read More »On Health Policy
NCHR Comments to CPSC on the Organohalogen Flame Retardant Petition
September 14, 2017. In order to keep our children safe, it is essential to regulate OFRs collectively as a class unless and until there is scientific evidence that one or more particular OFRs is proven to be safe, and then treat that specific OFR differently.
Read More »NCHR Testimony at the FDA Advisory Committee Meeting on Codeine in Children’s Prescription Cough Medication
September 11, 2017. There are serious risks and no clear benefits for cough medicine with codeine for children of any age. And while we can’t say for certain whether giving opioids to children has long-term negative effects contributing to opioid abuse by teenagers, that logically makes sense. Why not prevent opioid use in children when we can?
Read More »NCHR Comment on the USPSTF’s Draft Research Plan for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
September 6, 2017. We support the efforts of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) to carefully draft a research plan to guide the systematic review of available evidence for primary care screening to identify and treat AAA. We have two recommendations that would strengthen the USPSTF draft research plan.
Read More »Letter from NCHR about Dangerous Playgrounds and Athletic Fields to the Mayor and City Council of Washington, DC
August 28 2017: The National Center for Health Research (NCHR) is calling on D.C. leaders to halt the use of artificial turf and rubber playground surfaces. They highlight dangers such as lead exposure, excessive heat, and increased injury risks, emphasizing the need for safer, natural alternatives to protect children’s health.
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