10/02/24 - #230

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Good morning. In today’s edition:

  • Many Women Unaware of Preventive Benefits of Diet for Breast Cancer Risk

  • Maker of Ozempic and Wegovy Faces Grilling Over High Cost of Weight Loss Drugs

  • A Dramatic Rise in Pregnant Women Dying in Texas After Abortion Ban

  • Wearing an Eye Mask During Overnight Sleep Improves Episodic Learning and Alertness

…and lots more. Have a great day!

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Many Women Unaware of Preventive Benefits of Diet for Breast Cancer Risk

Many women may not know that diet affects their breast cancer risk. A recent survey found that only 28% of U.S. women know a healthy diet can lower their risk. It was by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult.

The Physicians Committee is a group of over 17,000 doctors who promote health. They recommend eating lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans. Also, exercise regularly, drink less alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight. This may help prevent breast cancer.

Stephanie McBurnett, a nutrition expert, says, "Eating low-fat, plant-based foods not only lowers your risk of breast cancer but is also good for survivors."

The survey of 2,017 women found many knew that being overweight and eating lots of processed meats could raise cancer risk. However, fewer were aware that too much dairy might also increase the risk. Interestingly, while 16% incorrectly thought soy was risky, only 17% knew it could actually reduce breast cancer risk.

Shockingly, 72% said they've never discussed nutrition and breast cancer risk with a health professional.

Dr. Kristi Funk stresses diet's importance. "A proper diet and lifestyle might prevent nearly half of breast cancer cases." In my opinion, even more—up to 90%—could be avoided."

The study shows a need for better education on diet and breast cancer prevention. Awareness hasn't improved much since 1995.

WEIGHT LOSS

Maker of Ozempic and Wegovy Faces Grilling Over High Cost of Weight Loss Drugs

In Washington, Senator Bernie Sanders grilled Novo Nordisk's CEO, Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, on the high prices of the weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. Jørgensen argued that high prices were needed to make the drugs accessible. Senator Sanders challenged this.

Sanders noted that pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) negotiate drug prices. They agreed not to remove Ozempic and Wegovy from their lists, even if prices were cut. This questions the need for such high prices to keep the drugs available.

In America, Wegovy costs about $1,349 per month, whereas in the United Kingdom, it is only $92. Jørgensen defended the prices. He cited the high health costs of obesity and type 2 diabetes in the U.S. But, he admitted that a large part of the drug's revenues goes to PBMs due to their demanded rebates.

The hearing revealed a complex relationship between drug firms and PBMs. It affects drug prices. High prices hit the uninsured and those with high-deductible plans hard. They struggle to afford necessary medications.

This issue shows a bigger problem: making U.S. healthcare affordable. Many struggle with high medical and drug costs. The debate over drug pricing continues as lawmakers and the public seek solutions.

HEALTH

A Dramatic Rise in Pregnant Women Dying in Texas After Abortion Ban

Since Texas made most abortions illegal in 2021, more pregnant women are dying there. This problem is much worse in Texas than in the rest of America. From 2019 to 2022, Texas had a 56% rise in maternal deaths from pregnancy or childbirth. The U.S. saw only an 11% increase.

The law in Texas, passed in September 2021, stops most abortions as early as five weeks into pregnancy. It only allows abortions if the mother's life is in danger. This has led to more deaths among all groups of women. For example, the death rate for Hispanic women went from 14.5 to 18.9 per 100,000 births, and it nearly doubled for white women.

Doctors say that since the law changed, more women are scared and fewer are getting the care they need during pregnancy. Dr. Leah Tatum, a doctor in Texas, mentioned that more women are asking for procedures to prevent pregnancy permanently because they're afraid of the new rules.

A woman named Kaitlyn Kash had to go to another state for an abortion after finding out her baby would not survive. She faced a tough situation made worse by the new Texas law. This shows how the strict abortion rules are hurting women, making pregnancy and childbirth much more dangerous in Texas.

Wearing an Eye Mask During Overnight Sleep Improves Episodic Learning and Alertness

Did you know wearing an eye mask to bed could make your brain sharper? Studies show that blocking out light with an eye mask while you sleep can improve your memory and make you feel more alert the next day.

Researchers ran two tests with people aged 18 to 35. In the first test, participants wore eye masks every night for a week. At the end of the week, they took tests to see how well they could remember things and how alert they felt. The results were clear: they did better after sleeping with eye masks than without them.

The second test showed even more benefits. It found that wearing an eye mask helped people get more deep sleep. This kind of sleep is very important because it helps the brain rest and recover, making it easier to learn and stay focused the next day.

These findings are exciting because they show a simple, cheap way to boost your brain function. Whether you need to study for a test, stay sharp at work, or just want to be more alert during the day, an eye mask might help.

So, if you're looking for a small change that could improve your daily life, try sleeping with an eye mask. It could help you think clearer and be more alert without any extra effort.

✢ A Note From Hem Hero

The information in this health newsletter is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. The publishers are not responsible for any actions taken by the reader based on the information provided.