What We’re Reading: Effects of COVID-19 Vaccination on Menstrual Cycles; Reduced Medicare Part B Premiums; J&J Announces Kenvue

Link Between COVID-19 Vaccination and Menstrual Cycle Length Changes

A large study funded by the National Institutes of Health confirmed findings from a previous study linking COVID-19 vaccination with a small temporary increase in menstrual cycle length. The study included nearly 20,000 people from North America and Europe and found an average increase in menstrual cycle length of less than 1 day, but this increase was not associated with changes in the number of days of menstrual bleeding. Compared with individuals who did not receive a COVID-19 vaccine and compared with at least 3 cycles prior to vaccination, individuals experienced a .71 day increase in cycle length after their first dose and a .56 day increase after their second dose, on average. Those who received both doses in a single cycle saw the greatest change in menstrual cycle length, with a 3.91 day increase, on average. The study included 9 different vaccines and found no changes based on which vaccine an individual received. More research is needed to understand why these changes are occurring.

Medicare Part B Premiums to Decrease in 2023

The Biden administration announced a reduction in Medicare Part B premiums in 2023, marking the first time these costs will be lowered since 2012, The Hill reported. CMS specifically said there will be a 3%, or $5.20, reduction, with premiums going from $170.10 to $164.90 per month. The annual deductible will also drop by $7, from $233 to $226. The year 2022 saw the greatest increase in Medicare Part B premiums with a 14.5% increase linked to the FDA-approval of Alzheimer drug Adulhelm.

Johnson & Johnson to Launch New Consumer Health Company

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) announced Kenvue as the name of its new consumer health company set to launch in 2023. J&J’s consumer health segment generated $14.6 billion in revenue in 2021, and Kenvue as a standalone company is expected to generate sales in over 100 countries. In the news release, J&J noted this planned separation is subject to legal requirements, such as consultations with works councils and employee representatives.