An FDA advisory panel endorsed a new mRNA-based influenza vaccine, despite HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s public skepticism of the technology. The endorsement could lead to the first mRNA flu shot on the US market. Separately, more than 770,000 children nationwide have lost access to SNAP food benefits following Trump administration changes to eligibility rules, with Arizona seeing the largest percentage decline. Research also showed that the shingles vaccine is linked to lower dementia risk in older adults, and a study found Nordic walking reduces depression symptoms in as little as five weeks.
Two patients with a severe autoimmune disease called neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) have remained in remission for more than 15 years after receiving a donor stem cell transplant, according to a study published in Nature. Researchers at IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital in Milan used allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplants—using stem cells from a donor—to treat the condition for the first time. The results suggest the therapy may offer a durable, one-time treatment option for certain autoimmune diseases where existing therapies require lifelong immunosuppression.
A copper-based compound has restored the brain's ability to clear toxic Alzheimer's proteins, dramatically reducing amyloid buildup and improving memory in laboratory experiments, pointing to a potentially fast-tracked new treatment. Separately, GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy were linked to a 30% lower breast cancer risk, while semaglutide showed stronger protection against bone fractures. An AI-designed universal coronavirus vaccine passed its first human trial, generating immune responses against multiple variants.
A major new study published by Medical News Today finds that GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy reduce the risk of four types of cancer by 50% or more. The research adds to growing evidence that these medications, already widely used for weight loss and diabetes management, offer broader health benefits. Meanwhile, the FDA proposed a ban on bulk compounding of semaglutide and tirzepatide, and the first-ever AI-designed vaccine entered human trials.
A new study finds that GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy slash the risk of four types of cancer by 50% or more, expanding their potential health benefits beyond diabetes and weight management. The FDA proposed banning bulk compounding of semaglutide and tirzepatide, and glucosamine supplements were linked to faster dementia progression in a separate study.
A new study shows AI-assisted mammography systems can detect approximately 20% of breast cancer cases up to six years before conventional diagnosis. The finding could transform screening protocols and improve survival rates. Separately, GLP-1 drugs show promise for bone health in type 2 diabetes patients, and FDA proposes banning bulk compounding of popular weight-loss drugs.
A surprising new study published June 14 in ScienceDaily reports that completely eliminating sugar from the diet may backfire. Mice fed a sucrose-free low-fat diet showed worse blood sugar control, increased inflammation, disrupted gut bacteria, and signs of fatty liver compared to mice that consumed some sugar. The findings challenge the assumption that zero-sugar diets are universally beneficial.
The FDA approved bemotrizinol, the first new sunscreen active ingredient in 25 years, marking a major milestone in sun protection. The approval comes as skin cancer rates continue to rise and public awareness of UV damage grows. In other health news, a study linking vaccines to autism was retracted, the FDA issued a safety alert on weight-loss drug kidney risks, and GLP-1 medications show promise in reducing harmful fat while preserving muscle mass.
The FDA's vaccine advisory committee recommended that the 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine formula target the JN.1-lineage XFG variant, the preferred strain for an updated monovalent shot. The decision follows evidence that this variant most closely matches currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 viruses. Updated vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer are expected to roll out in September 2026 alongside the annual flu shot campaign.
AI-powered mammography systems are detecting one in five breast cancer cases up to six years before conventional diagnosis, according to new research. The findings suggest AI screening could dramatically improve survival rates through earlier intervention. Separately, a new oral GLP-1 drug lowered blood sugar levels by 7% in people with type 2 diabetes, and Congo's confirmed Ebola cases rose to 676 with 136 deaths. Researchers also discovered 45 new toxins produced by Salmonella bacteria, opening new avenues for treatment.