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What We’re Reading: Expanding Free COVID-19 Tests; Breakthrough Alzheimer Vaccines; Growing Support for Abortion Rights
Additional COVID-19 tests can be ordered amid rising cases and insurance challenges; therapies targeting toxic proteins in Alzheimer disease spark renewed interest; new poll indicates 55% approval for legal abortion on any grounds.
Expanding Free COVID-19 Test Program Ahead of Holiday Season
In response to the upcoming Thanksgiving and holiday travel season, the US government is reopening its at-home COVID-19 testing program, allowing households to receive 4 free tests per order, with the option for 2 orders if the household has not requested tests since the program's September reopening, according to Axios. As COVID-19 cases surge and many insurers cease coverage for tests, this initiative addresses the critical need for accessible testing. Amid challenges in delivering booster shots, the Biden administration aims to distribute over 1.6 billion free tests, with the latest round's tests valid until at least March and the FDA extending expiration dates for OTC tests.
Revival of Alzheimer Vaccines Offers Hope for Cheaper and Accessible Treatments
Scientists and pharmaceutical companies are rekindling efforts to develop Alzheimer disease vaccines as breakthrough treatments targeting toxic proteins show promise in clinical trials, according to Reuters. Renewed interest follows a 20-year hiatus since an initial attempt faced safety concerns. With ongoing trials for at least 7 vaccines, including fast-tracked candidates, experts believe these vaccines, aiming to harness the immune system against Alzheimer-related proteins, could provide a cost-effective and easy-to-administer option for the estimated 39 million people globally affected by the disease.
Survey Reveals Growing Support for Abortion Rights, Especially in Cases of Rape, Incest, and Health Risks
A recent Wall Street Journal–NORC poll highlights a significant shift in public opinion on abortion rights, with 55% of respondents supporting the idea that pregnant women should have the legal right to choose an abortion for any reason, according to The Hill. The survey, conducted by the University of Chicago, shows a notable increase in Democratic support, with 77% endorsing unrestricted access compared with 52% in 2016. While only one-third of Republicans back abortion for any reason, most respondents across party lines support access in cases of rape, incest, or when a woman's health is at risk.
A Focus on Women: AUA Best Posters Highlight Female Athletes, Prenatal Care, and Women in Urology
May 9th 2024Three posters from the American Urological Association (AUA) 2024 Annual Meeting focused on urinary incontinence in female athletes, prenatal care for fetuses with spina bifida in California, and the experiences of women residents at the Brady Urological Institute.
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Frameworks for Advancing Health Equity: Urban Health Outreach
May 9th 2024In the series debut episode of "Frameworks for Advancing Health Equity," Mary Sligh, CRNP, and Chelsea Chappars, of Allegheny Health Network, explain how the Urban Health Outreach program aims to improve health equity for individuals experiencing homelessness.
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Patients With Advanced, Recurrent Melanoma May Experience Lasting AEs From ICM Therapy
May 9th 2024A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study found that adverse effects (AEs) can occur even after 1 year of treatment with immune checkpoint modulator (ICM) therapy in patients with melanoma.
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Examining Low-Value Cancer Care Trends Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 25th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the authors of a study published in the April 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® about their findings on the rates of low-value cancer care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
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