New Faces and Flaws in Health and Science

The FDA is getting a new leader for its drug evaluation center. Tracy Beth Høeg is stepping into this crucial role. Meanwhile, the CDC is reviewing the hepatitis B vaccine. This is a big deal because vaccines play a huge role in public health. But not everyone is happy with the FDA's plans. A group of former FDA commissioners, including almost every commissioner since 1990, spoke out against proposed changes. They say these changes could mess up vaccine development and updates. The critique came from a leaked memo by Vinay Prasad, the FDA’s top vaccine regulator. Not all former commissioners agreed, though. Two chose not to sign the piece. Older adults are getting more antipsychotic prescriptions. A study in JAMA Psychiatry found that from 2015 to 2024, the rate of antipsychotic use in adults 65 and older went up. This could mean more chronic conditions or cognitive impairments among older adults. The study suggests we need better mental health care and behavioral interventions for this group. Science in America has taken a hit lately. The Trump administration has disrupted the usual way science works. This has led to confusion, delays, and lost trust in institutions like the NIH. A new series by STAT explores how this has affected scientists, labs, and communities. For example, Brittney Dockery left her job as a lab technician because of funding issues. She felt her work had a big impact, but now she's unsure. Breanna Cutright, an anti-tobacco activist, lost her program due to funding cuts. She wondered why no one saw how important it was. Meanwhile, faulty glucose monitors have caused serious problems. Two types made by Abbott Diabetes Care gave wrong readings, leading to seven deaths and hundreds of injuries. The company says it has fixed the issue, but this raises questions about the safety of medical devices.