Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Medical Journal Retracts Liver Transplant Studies Over Concern Organs Were 'Procured Unethically'
Two Chinese studies related to liver transplantation published more than a decade ago in the Journal of Hepatology were retracted by the journal's editors. The editors said concerns were raised that the transplants described in both studies may have involved organs "procured unethically." (Bassett, 7/9)
Analysis of hundreds of thousands of patient records showed differing risks for autoimmune disorders for new users of the more recent types of antidiabetic medications. (Gever, 7/9)
Treatment with setmelanotide (Imcivree), a melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonist, led to significant reductions in body mass index (BMI) and hunger in individuals with acquired hypothalamic obesity, the phase III TRANSCEND trial showed. (Monaco, 7/9)
People with long COVID often report fatigue and other symptoms that make it challenging for them to enjoy life like they once did. A study published recently in JACC: Advances found that people with more long-COVID symptoms are less active and have poorer cardiovascular health measures. But more investigation is needed to understand the relationship between activity levels and cardiovascular disease (CVD) for those with long COVID. (Holohan, 7/9)
Long-lasting vision problems following mild cases of COVID-19 may stem from persistent inflammation and nerve damage, even as the results of standard eye examinations appear normal, according to a study today in Nature Communications. Although less well-known than other long-COVID symptoms, ocular symptoms like pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and difficulty reading affect up to 31% to 35% of people with the condition, the study authors note. But this abnormal eye behavior can’t be detected by standard methods, making it difficult for patients to get a diagnosis or treatment. (Bergeson, 7/9)
