## Merck Receives FDA Green Light for Lipfendra, a Breakthrough Cholesterol-Lowering Pill

Pharmaceutical giant Merck has officially announced that its new cholesterol-lowering drug, Lipfendra, has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The once-daily oral pill belongs to a class of medications known as PCSK9 inhibitors and is designed to combat high levels of LDL cholesterol — commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol — either alongside statins or as a standalone treatment in certain cases.

## A Long-Overdue Alternative to Statins

Statins have long dominated the cholesterol treatment landscape, holding the title of the most frequently prescribed medication in the United States. While effective for many patients, statins are not without their drawbacks. Some individuals experience side effects such as muscle pain, and in certain cases, statins fail to bring LDL levels down to the targets recommended by medical guidelines.

Dr. Puja Banka, a pediatric cardiologist and associate vice-president for global clinical development at Merck, emphasized the significance of this new approval. She noted that statins alone are often insufficient in achieving recommended LDL reductions for a considerable number of patients. Lipfendra, she explained, is primarily intended to be used in combination with statins, though it may also serve as an independent therapy where appropriate.

### Impressive Clinical Trial Results

Clinical trial data has painted a promising picture for Lipfendra. According to reports from the New York Times, the drug demonstrated the ability to reduce LDL cholesterol levels to as low as 50 to 60 mg/dL — or even lower in some cases. Perhaps equally encouraging is the drug's favorable safety profile. Dr. Banka stated that side effects observed during trials were minimal, with no reports of muscle aches, adding that the drug's tolerability was comparable to a placebo.

## From Injection to Pill: A Game-Changing Shift

PCSK9 inhibitors are not entirely new to medicine, but until now, they have only been available in injectable form — a barrier that has limited their widespread adoption among patients. The introduction of Lipfendra as an oral pill is expected to significantly broaden access and patient compliance, making it a potentially transformative step in cardiovascular care.

Merck has indicated that the drug should be available to patients within a matter of weeks following the approval announcement.

## Understanding the Cholesterol Targets

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and elevated LDL cholesterol is a well-established driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

In March, the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released updated guidelines outlining recommended LDL targets based on individual patient risk:

- **Below 100 mg/dL** for patients at borderline or intermediate risk of a first heart attack or stroke
- **Below 70 mg/dL** for high-risk patients
- **Below 55 mg/dL** for individuals already diagnosed with ASCVD who are at very high risk of further cardiovascular events

These benchmarks underscore the need for more powerful and accessible treatment options — a gap that Lipfendra is well-positioned to help address.

## Pricing and Patient Costs

Merck has set Lipfendra's list price at approximately $10.50 per day, which translates to just over $300 per month. However, the company has indicated that many patients can expect their out-of-pocket expenses to be considerably lower, depending on their insurance coverage and eligibility for cost-assistance programs.

As cardiovascular disease continues to place an enormous burden on public health, Lipfendra's arrival marks a notable milestone — offering patients and physicians a convenient, effective, and well-tolerated new tool in the ongoing fight against high cholesterol.

Merck's Lipfendra wins FDA approval as a daily pill to lower LDL cholesterol, offering a promising alternative or complement to statins with minimal side effect

Merck's Lipfendra FDA Approved as New Cholesterol-Fighting P

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Merck's New Cholesterol Pill Lipfendra Wins FDA Approval as a Statin Alternative

## UK Experts Push for Routine MenB Vaccination in Secondary Schools

Health advisers in the United Kingdom are now recommending that all teenagers around the age of 15 be offered a free meningitis B (MenB) vaccine — marking a significant shift from previous guidance. The recommendation comes in the wake of the country's largest and fastest-growing MenB outbreak, which struck Kent earlier this year and resulted in two fatalities.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) is formally requesting that the government evaluate the introduction of routine MenB vaccinations for secondary school-aged young people, with the aim of providing stronger protection against a potentially fatal disease.

## A Father's Loss Drives Change

Anthony Mills, whose 18-year-old son Aaron passed away after contracting MenB during the Christmas university break in Liverpool, described the push for wider teenage vaccination as his son's "legacy."

The Mills family has since dedicated themselves to raising awareness and fundraising for the charity Meningitis Now. Anthony told the BBC that he believes Aaron's story was instrumental in persuading the JCVI to revise its guidance, and he is now calling on the government to act swiftly on the recommendation.

"The only thing that could have saved Aaron is the vaccine," Anthony said.

He also revealed that his family had been unaware a MenB vaccine even existed, having assumed that Aaron's school vaccinations at age 14 had fully protected him. It was only after his son's death that they learned Aaron had only received the MenACWY vaccine — which guards against four other bacterial strains that cause meningitis — but not MenB.

Anthony stressed that beyond vaccination, there is an urgent need for "more impactful literature" to educate the public about MenB and the specific strains each vaccine covers.

## Survivor Voices: The Human Cost of MenB

Becca Heritage, a former medical student who had both legs and one hand amputated after contracting MenB while studying in Southampton, also welcomed the new recommendation. She emphasised the critical importance of educating young people about the disease's dangers and urging them to take responsibility for their own health.

"It's easy to think 'it'll never be me,' but all young people should know the signs and symptoms, as well as taking ownership of getting their vaccines and knowing which strains they are protected against," she said.

Becca called on the government to follow through on the JCVI's advice without delay, warning that "young people's lives are at stake."

"Young people's lives are not expendable, and this vaccine is our best protection. Anything other than following the advice would be failing our young people," she added.

## What Changed — and Why

During the Kent outbreak, which saw 29 confirmed or suspected cases, many parents rushed to purchase the MenB vaccine privately from pharmacies. At that time, both the government and the JCVI maintained that broader teenage vaccination was unnecessary.

That position has now been reversed, following growing recognition that teenagers face a heightened risk of contracting and becoming seriously ill from MenB. Experts note that the disease can spread through close contact — including kissing or sharing vapes — making adolescents particularly vulnerable. For full protection, two doses of the vaccine are required.

As an immediate precautionary measure, a one-off vaccination campaign is already being rolled out across the UK this summer, targeting young people preparing to attend university for the first time.

## Government Response and Next Steps

The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the updated guidance, stating: "We will consider the advice and will update on any future programme in due course."

The decision on whether to fund routine MenB vaccination through the NHS will ultimately rest with ministers in each of the four UK nations, who must weigh the financial implications against the public health benefits. If the programme is approved, teenagers would receive the vaccine free of charge.

Prof Wei Shen Lim, chair of the JCVI advisory group, acknowledged the gravity of the disease and the role that patient and family testimonies played in shaping the committee's recommendation.

"Invasive meningococcal disease is a rare but very serious illness which can have a devastating impact on lives. The JCVI has worked closely with meningitis charities and would like to thank all those who responded, including on behalf of loved ones who sadly died or had life-changing complications. Their lived experiences were carefully considered," he said.

Dr Tom Nutt, head of Meningitis Now, described the recommendation as a "significant moment" in the ongoing battle against the disease. "Today's recommendation is an important step towards ensuring that far more young people are protected from this devastating disease," he said.

## Understanding the Dangers of MenB

Meningitis B is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis type B bacteria and can lead to life-threatening conditions, including inflammation of the brain's protective lining (meningitis) and blood poisoning (sepsis). Survivors may face life-altering consequences such as limb amputations, hearing loss, and brain damage — and in the most severe cases, the disease can be fatal.

While all babies in the UK are already offered the MenB vaccine due to their heightened vulnerability to invasive infections, older children and teenagers have until now fallen outside the routine vaccination schedule — a gap that health experts and campaigners are urgently seeking to close.

UK health experts urge the government to offer free MenB meningitis vaccines to all 15-year-olds after a deadly Kent outbreak claimed two lives this year.

Free MenB Vaccine Recommended for UK Teens Aged 15+

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UK Health Experts Call for Free MenB Vaccines for All Teenagers Aged 15 and Over

## Herefordshire: The UK's Hidden Sanctuary for Mind, Body, and Spirit

A respected Buddhist monk from Sri Lanka has made a striking declaration about a quiet English county — calling Herefordshire the ideal place in the United Kingdom for anyone seeking spiritual growth, inner peace, and lasting happiness.

Venerable Dhammaloka, a senior figure within the Buddhist tradition, says he can physically sense a rare "state of balance" in the region — one that makes it uniquely suited to those on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

### The Right Environment for Human Flourishing

"For a person to be happy, they need the right environment," Dhammaloka explained. "The nature, the air — everything in Herefordshire allows for that."

His belief in the county's restorative qualities was so strong that he directed his mentee, Ishara De Silva, to establish her wellness centre there — even though neither of them had ever set foot in Herefordshire before making the decision.

De Silva, who originally founded Plantation Villa in Sri Lanka, followed her mentor's counsel and launched a UK outpost of the centre in Kings Caple, Herefordshire, in 2022.

"I had studied and worked in London for 19 years, but when we discussed helping people across the UK, he pointed to Hereford," De Silva recalled. "He told me it was the finest place in the country for developing the human mind."

She added that Dhammaloka also referenced the region's historical significance, noting that much of England's early work in physical health, mental wellbeing, and ancient medicinal practices centred around Herefordshire.

## Ayurveda Meets the English Countryside

At its core, Plantation Villa operates on the principles of Ayurveda — an ancient healing system rooted in South Asian tradition and refined over thousands of years. This holistic approach to health considers the full spectrum of human wellness, from diet and daily routine to mental clarity and emotional balance.

Visitors to the centre can immerse themselves in ayurvedic retreats, yoga sessions, and transformative sound healing workshops — all set against the serene backdrop of the Herefordshire countryside.

### Sound Healing: Science Meets Serenity

Laura Leverington, a yoga teacher and sound healing facilitator at the centre, discovered her passion for Ayurveda through personal experience and has since made it her professional calling.

"Sound healing is a practice designed for deep relaxation — for both the body and the mind," she explained. "Science has already proven, and continues to prove, that sound can serve as a powerful tool for stress relief and enhanced meditation."

Through her workshops, participants learn practical techniques to quiet mental chatter and achieve genuine stillness. "We explore how to slow the mind down and, ultimately, how to switch it off entirely through sound," she said.

### A Blueprint for a Balanced Life

For Leverington, Ayurveda extends far beyond the treatment room — it represents a comprehensive philosophy for everyday living.

"It really focuses on balancing the body in every sense," she said. "From choosing the right foods to something as simple as how you begin your morning — Ayurveda is essentially a guide to living a happy and fulfilling life."

## Why Herefordshire Matters

The story of Plantation Villa raises an intriguing question about place and purpose. That a monk from Sri Lanka — guided by intuition and ancient wisdom rather than travel guides or wellness rankings — would pinpoint a rural English county as a spiritual epicentre speaks volumes about Herefordshire's quiet, often overlooked power.

For those feeling overwhelmed by urban pressures or disconnected from their own wellbeing, Dhammaloka's message is a compelling invitation: sometimes, the most profound healing happens far from the spotlight — in rolling hills, clean air, and communities quietly committed to something deeper.

A Sri Lankan Buddhist monk guided his mentee to open a wellness centre in Herefordshire, calling it the UK's best place for spiritual and mental growth.

Why a Buddhist Monk Named Herefordshire a Spiritual Hub

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Why a Buddhist Monk Chose Herefordshire as the UK's Spiritual Hub

## When Love Becomes a Source of Dread: Understanding Relationship OCD

For most people, the occasional doubt about a romantic relationship is completely normal. But for those living with relationship OCD, these doubts transform into relentless, all-consuming intrusive thoughts that can make everyday life nearly impossible.

Sophia, a 24-year-old content creator and waitress from Leeds, has been in a committed relationship for over a year — yet she constantly questions everything about it. She doubts her compatibility with her boyfriend, her feelings for him, and even what she might do as a result of those thoughts.

"I couldn't leave the house because I was so worried I would cheat on my boyfriend," she recalls. "At my worst, I couldn't go to work. I'd be lying in bed all day, asking ChatGPT hundreds of questions trying to find some kind of reassurance."

## What Is Relationship OCD?

Relationship OCD — commonly referred to as ROCD — is a recognised form of obsessive compulsive disorder. Unlike the fleeting doubts most people experience in relationships, ROCD involves persistent, intrusive thoughts that generate significant distress and compulsive behaviours. These might include repeatedly testing a partner or seeking constant reassurance in an attempt to quiet the mental noise.

"It can take hours of mental energy and cause a lot of anxiety, whereas in a normal relationship these thoughts don't dominate your day," explains Professor David Veale, a consultant psychiatrist at the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust.

Sophia describes the experience as nothing short of "mental torture."

"Having a voice in your head constantly nitpicking at your relationship and generating horrible thoughts about your partner — it's truly heartbreaking," she says.

## How Common Is Relationship OCD?

OCD as a whole affects approximately 1.2% of the UK population, but because ROCD is not tracked as a separate condition, precise figures on its prevalence remain elusive.

Professor Guy Doron, a clinical psychologist at Reichman University in Israel who has been studying ROCD for over a decade, notes that when he first began his research, very little information existed on the subject. Today, however, he is witnessing a clear uptick in referrals. Increased visibility through social media platforms and growing academic research appear to be encouraging more individuals to come forward and seek professional help.

As for whether ROCD affects one gender more than another, Professor Veale says the data is insufficient to draw firm conclusions, though his clinical experience suggests it may be "slightly more common in women."

## The Two Core Types of ROCD

Experts generally categorise relationship OCD into two distinct forms:

### Relationship-Centred ROCD
This type involves persistent doubts about one's own feelings — questioning whether you truly love your partner or whether the relationship is right for you.

### Partner-Focused ROCD
This form centres on perceived flaws in a partner, leading to obsessive scrutiny of their behaviour, appearance, or character.

While ROCD symptoms most commonly emerge in romantic relationships, Professor Doron notes they can also surface in other types of close relationships. Major life milestones — such as becoming exclusive, moving in together, or getting engaged — frequently serve as triggers.

## From Handwashing to Heartache: One Woman's Story

Sophia's OCD originally manifested as contamination fears. At its peak, she was washing her hands at least 30 times a day. When she met her boyfriend on Valentine's Day, she felt genuinely present and happy. But as the relationship grew more serious roughly a month later, her OCD found a new focus.

"My OCD latched onto the relationship and I completely shut down," she says. Even minor things — an outfit she wasn't keen on or a haircut she didn't prefer — would spiral into serious relationship doubts. "My brain would be shouting at me to break up with him, even though I knew that's not what I wanted."

## Why Some People Are More Vulnerable

While ROCD can affect anyone, certain factors may increase a person's susceptibility. According to Professor Doron, early relationship experiences, a tendency toward perfectionism, and a predisposition to overthinking can all influence how individuals process relationship uncertainty.

Social media adds yet another layer of complexity. The idealised portrayals of romance online can amplify self-doubt for those already struggling.

"Social media can definitely be triggering for people with ROCD because it romanticises love and can make them doubt their own relationship," Professor Doron warns.

Sophia echoes this sentiment: "Seeing perfect-looking couples online creates unrealistic expectations, when real relationships are anything but perfect."

## 'It Targets the Things That Matter Most'

Gracie, 24, a mental health charity worker from Bristol, has been navigating ROCD for seven years. For her, it isn't the glossy couple photos on social media that cause the most harm — it's the accompanying captions and relationship mantras.

Phrases like "when you know, you know" and the expectation of absolute romantic certainty can be particularly overwhelming.

"We can be having a really nice time together, but in my head I'll be completely freaking out wondering if he's the one — it's exhausting," she says.

Both Gracie and Sophia are clear on one important point: ROCD is not an indication that someone doesn't love their partner.

"It's actually the opposite," Gracie explains. "OCD often targets the things that matter the most to a person. It can make you feel hopeless and like a terrible person — but it doesn't mean you don't care."

## Seeking Help for Relationship OCD

Both women have explored medication and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help manage their symptoms. Much of their early understanding of the condition, however, came from independent research online and through YouTube videos — highlighting a clear gap in accessible professional guidance.

The charity OCD Action emphasises that getting the right support is crucial. The recommended first step is speaking openly with a GP about how intrusive thoughts are affecting daily life. From there, tailored treatment options — including specialist CBT — can make a meaningful difference.

Relationship OCD may still be under-recognised, but growing awareness is slowly changing that — and for those living with it, that recognition can be the first step toward relief.

Relationship OCD causes relentless doubts about love and partnership. Learn what ROCD is, who it affects, and how to find the right support.

Relationship OCD: Signs, Symptoms and How to Get Help

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When Love Becomes a Source of Dread: Understanding Relationship OCD

## Surviving Extreme Summer Heat Without Air Conditioning

As temperatures continue to shatter records across the globe, millions of people face a harsh reality: surviving brutal heat without access to air conditioning. But long before modern cooling systems existed, communities in some of the world's hottest regions developed remarkably effective strategies for staying cool.

Dr. Gulrez Shah Azhar, a heat health researcher and Aspen New Voices fellow based in Seattle, grew up in Uttar Pradesh, India — a region where May and June temperatures regularly climb past 120°F. With a regional per capita income of roughly $1,000 annually, air conditioning simply isn't an option for most residents there. Yet people endure and adapt.

Here are the most effective heat-management techniques drawn from generations of wisdom, combined with insights from modern heat research.

> **Important:** If you or someone nearby shows signs of heatstroke — including high fever, severe headache, nausea, confusion, or sudden weakness — call emergency services immediately. Apply ice packs while awaiting medical care. Heatstroke is life-threatening and requires urgent attention.

---

## Hydration: Your First and Most Critical Defense

### Drink Constantly, Even Before You Feel Thirsty

One of the most fundamental lessons passed down through generations in hot climates is simple: never let yourself become dehydrated. Sip water consistently throughout the day, especially before, during, and after any physical activity. Carrying a water bottle isn't just practical — in extreme heat, it can be lifesaving.

### Replenish Electrolytes with Traditional Cooling Drinks

Plain water alone isn't always enough. Sweating causes the body to lose essential electrolytes, which must be replaced. In India, several traditional beverages have served this purpose for centuries:

- **Aam ka pana** – A tangy drink made from boiled raw mangoes, this refreshing beverage replenishes electrolytes effectively. Pre-made mixes are available at ethnic grocery stores and online retailers.
- **Coconut water** – Naturally rich in electrolytes and deeply hydrating.
- **Sugarcane juice** – A popular, energizing thirst-quencher across South Asia.
- **Lassi and buttermilk** – Milk-based, cooling beverages that are staples of Indian summers.

### Never Step Outside on an Empty Stomach

Eating something before heading out in the heat helps maintain your body's energy levels and stability. A few slices of cucumber — which contains natural dissolved electrolytes — or a serving of pineapple works well. In India, cucumber is commonly sprinkled with black salt to further boost its restorative properties.

---

## Cool Your Body Down Directly

### Use Water Strategically

A cold shower provides immediate relief from rising body temperature. If a full shower isn't possible, splashing cool water on your face, neck, wrists, and the top of your head can produce a noticeable cooling effect quickly.

For families with children, turning cooling into play makes perfect sense. Water balloon fights, backyard splash sessions, and tubs filled with cool water are as effective as they are enjoyable — and children in hot countries around the world have relied on these methods for generations.

---

## Optimize Your Living Space for Coolness

### Find and Use the Coolest Zones in Your Home

Heat naturally rises, which means lower floors of any multi-story building will be significantly cooler than upper levels. Identify the coolest rooms in your home and prioritize spending time there, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Other effective indoor strategies include:

- **Heavy curtains** – Block direct sunlight during daylight hours to prevent indoor temperatures from rising.
- **Strategic fan placement** – Fans don't lower air temperature but dramatically improve how cool your body feels through evaporation.
- **Window positioning** – Move furniture, including beds, closer to windows to take advantage of natural night breezes.
- **Verandas and shaded outdoor areas** – Shaded, open-air spaces often feel cooler than enclosed indoor rooms.

### Take Inspiration from Ancient Architectural Cooling

Traditional architecture across South Asia developed ingenious passive cooling solutions long before electricity existed:

- **Jaali screens** – A latticed stone or wood design featuring geometric cutouts, similar to those found on the Taj Mahal. These screens block direct sunlight while simultaneously accelerating airflow through the small openings, producing a natural cooling effect.
- **Water features** – Structures like the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) in Jaipur used courtyard water bodies strategically. Wind passing over these water sources picked up moisture before flowing through thousands of latticed windows, cooling interior spaces naturally.

### Use Wet Curtains and Evaporative Cooling

A highly effective low-tech trick involves hanging a curtain woven from grass — traditionally made from a fragrant grass called **khus** in India — over doorways and spraying it with water. Hot outside air passing through the wet curtain is converted into a cool, humid breeze indoors. Fine bamboo curtains with a damp inner cloth layer work similarly.

For a modern equivalent, **swamp coolers** (also called evaporative coolers) operate on the same principle. These electrical devices draw room air across water-saturated pads and return cooled air to the space. They are significantly cheaper to purchase and operate than traditional air conditioners, and they work best in low-humidity environments. DIY versions can even be assembled at home.

---

## Dress Smarter in the Heat

### Choose the Right Fabrics

Cotton and linen are the ideal materials for hot weather clothing. Both fabrics feature loosely woven fibers with larger pores that allow air to circulate freely against the skin, promoting cooling through evaporation.

### Understand the Science of Color

The relationship between clothing color and body temperature is more nuanced than most people realize. While white reflects sunlight and heats up slowly, black absorbs heat faster but also releases it faster once you move into shade.

Nomadic Rabari communities in western India apply this knowledge practically: women who move frequently between indoors and outdoors wear darker colors that cool down quickly in shade, while men who spend prolonged periods outdoors wear lighter colors that heat up more slowly under direct sun.

### Protect Your Head

Covering the head is one of the oldest and most universal heat-protection practices. Options include:

- **Dampened cloth wraps** – A wet gamcha (a light traditional cotton cloth) worn around the head or neck provides significant cooling through evaporation and is used widely across rural India.
- **Turbans** – Historically worn by both royalty and common people across South Asia, turbans offer excellent insulation from solar heat.
- **Lightweight hats** – Even a simple damp towel draped over the head offers meaningful protection from direct sun exposure.

---

## Adjust Your Schedule Around the Heat

One of the most practical and underutilized strategies is simply rescheduling physical activity away from peak heat hours. In Uttar Pradesh, farmers work in the early morning and late evening, avoiding the intense midday sun entirely. Local markets often close during the hottest afternoon hours and reopen into the cooler evenings.

If your schedule allows any flexibility, shift outdoor tasks, exercise, and errands to early morning or after sunset. During peak heat hours, rest indoors — an afternoon siesta isn't laziness; it's physiologically sound heat management.

---

## Use Natural Shade — and Plant More Trees

Whether commuting, working, or simply walking outside, consistently seek shade beneath trees. While the ambient air temperature under a tree is technically the same as in direct sunlight, your skin avoids absorbing solar radiation, which significantly reduces how much your body heats up.

Planting trees is also a long-term investment in community cooling. The shade trees provide today was planted by previous generations. Continuing that tradition — even knowing the full benefit may not be felt in our own lifetimes — is one of the most meaningful contributions any community can make in the face of rising global temperatures.

---

## Final Thoughts

Extreme heat doesn't have to mean suffering, even without air conditioning. The strategies outlined above — drawn from centuries of lived experience in some of the world's hottest places — demonstrate that the human body can be protected, cooled, and sustained through thoughtful hydration, smart dressing, architectural awareness, and behavioral adjustments.

Applied together, these methods provide meaningful relief. The key is awareness, preparation, and respecting the serious power of heat before it becomes dangerous.

No air conditioning? Learn proven, expert-backed strategies to survive extreme summer heat using hydration, clothing, home cooling tricks, and more.

Stay Cool Without AC: Heat Survival Tips That Work

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Beat the Extreme Heat Without Air Conditioning: Proven Tips from the World's Hottest Regions

## Cancer Disparities Research Under Threat as Federal Funding Dries Up

Why do some Americans face dramatically higher odds of developing cancer — or dying from it? Rural residents are 18% more likely to die from cancer overall, while Black women face a 35% greater risk of dying from breast cancer compared to white women. These sobering statistics, drawn from a recent report by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), underscore why cancer disparities research matters. Yet the scientists working to close these gaps say their work is now in serious jeopardy.

## Survey Reveals Sweeping Impact on Researchers

According to the AACR report, an estimated 93% of cancer disparities researchers surveyed have felt the effects of recent federal policy changes. The survey included 122 participants — professors, scientists, and graduate students — and the findings paint a troubling picture.

- **78%** reported being unable to apply for new funding
- **59%** said active research projects had been disrupted
- **59%** identified the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as the primary source of lost funding

"Many medical trials were stopped in the middle — meaning those patients suddenly didn't receive the treatments they were getting, because the funding stopped," said **Mariana Stern**, professor of preventive medicine and urology at the Keck School of Medicine at USC and chair of the report committee.

## Hundreds of Millions in Grants Canceled

The AACR report references data published in *JAMA Oncology* showing that during roughly the first half of 2025, the Trump administration canceled 181 grants from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) — a division of the NIH. Those grants represented more than **$317 million** in research funding, with many focused specifically on health disparities.

Across the NIH as a whole, thousands of grants were terminated in 2025, according to Grant Witness, a nonprofit organization that monitors changes to scientific agency funding. These cuts followed a January 2025 executive order directing agencies to eliminate what it described as "radical" and "wasteful" DEI-related research.

**Heather Pierce**, senior director for science policy at the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), called the wave of cancellations a mass termination carried out "for simply not moving forward priorities of a new administration." She noted that under previous administrations, grant terminations were considered an extreme last resort — and that nothing approaching this scale had ever occurred before.

Although many terminated NIH grants were later reinstated following court challenges, additional terminations have been reported by the Department of Health and Human Services. Meanwhile, fewer new grants from both the NCI and the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities have been issued in 2025 compared to prior years.

## "Completely Unprecedented" — A Researcher's Perspective

**Scarlett Lin Gomez**, a professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco, has directed the Greater Bay Area Cancer Registry — an institution that has received NCI funding for 53 consecutive years.

"We received a cut that was completely unprecedented in the years my registry has been funded through the NCI. We've not had a cut of this magnitude at all — by far," Gomez said.

The consequences have been immediate and personal. Gomez oversees a lab of roughly 50 staff members. Last year, she was forced to lay off approximately seven full-time employees and expects to lose five or six more in the coming year.

"It literally keeps me up at night — the impacts on individuals in my lab," she said. "Everybody's looking at doing the same thing. It's scary to even think about what that's going to look like."

## Researchers Forced to Pivot — or Lose Funding Entirely

Some scientists have managed to preserve portions of their work by creatively reframing their research to remain compliant with new federal guidelines. Stern, who studies cancer epidemiology, found herself in this position — sometimes simply rewording grant applications, and in other cases fundamentally shifting her research focus.

One program she previously led provided federal grant-backed training and career development opportunities for students from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds, helping them pursue careers in medicine and research. The rationale was clear: studies show patients experience better outcomes when treated by providers who share their cultural background and language, and that diverse research teams produce faster, more relevant results.

However, under current executive orders, that program can no longer exclusively target minority groups.

"When you look at what percent of Ph.D. or medical graduates belong to racial and ethnic minority communities, you see underrepresentation," Stern said. "We still have a way to go — but with the current political climate, right now, it's impossible to do that."

## Progress Made — But Now At Risk

Despite the current challenges, the AACR report acknowledges meaningful progress over recent decades. The mortality gap between Black and white cancer patients, for example, has narrowed significantly — from approximately 34% higher in the 1990s to about 9% higher today. Cancer disparities research played a central role in driving that improvement.

But experts warn that momentum could reverse if funding continues to decline.

"If we take our foot off the pedal of disparities research, there will be more Americans — in rural communities and others not near centers of excellence — who will not do well," said **Dr. Robert Winn**, cancer center director at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Pennsylvania.

The gaps that remain are stark. The AACR report highlights that veterans face 72% higher odds of developing skin cancer, and rural Americans are 36% more likely to die from lung cancer than their urban counterparts. The report describes these disparities as "among the most profound forms of inequity and injustice."

"If we don't continue to support the research and the clinical care, all the progress we've made over the last 30-plus years — and all the progress to come — is literally at risk," Winn said.

## NIH Responds

In response to questions about reductions in cancer disparities funding, the NIH issued the following statement: "NCI identifies cancer disparity research as a priority and recognizes that advancements in the field generate knowledge benefiting all patients across the cancer continuum, from prevention and early detection to treatment and survivorship."

However, for many researchers on the ground, that statement offers little reassurance amid an ongoing and deeply disruptive funding crisis.

93% of cancer disparities researchers report disruptions from federal funding cuts. Learn how grant terminations are jeopardizing decades of life-saving progres

Federal Cuts Threaten Cancer Disparities Research Progress

Federal Funding Cuts Are Derailing Cancer Disparities Research, Scientists Warn

## England Set to Test All Newborns for Deadly Muscle Disease

In a significant step forward for newborn healthcare, all babies born in England will be screened for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) — a serious genetic condition that can prove fatal within the first two years of life. The announcement has been celebrated by campaigners, medical professionals, and families affected by the disease.

Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson, who has been at the forefront of advocacy efforts following her twin daughters' diagnoses, described the news as a defining moment. "This is a victory for every family affected by SMA," she said.

## What Is Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

SMA is a genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness, significantly impairing a person's ability to move, breathe, and swallow. In its most severe form, the condition is life-threatening, often claiming the lives of affected infants before they reach their second birthday.

Despite its severity, there are now groundbreaking gene therapies capable of correcting the underlying genetic fault responsible for SMA. However, these treatments must be administered before any symptoms develop — making early detection through newborn screening absolutely critical.

## Jesy Nelson's Personal Fight

Earlier this year, Nelson publicly revealed that her twin daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster, had been diagnosed with SMA. Doctors had warned her that the girls would "probably never walk."

The singer shared painful glimpses into her family's reality on social media, including images of her daughters wearing spinal jackets and foot splints during a summer heatwave. In a trailer for her upcoming Prime Video documentary, *Jesy Nelson: Life Changing*, she opened up about the emotional toll, saying: "I feel like I'm going to feel heartbroken for the rest of my life."

Despite her personal grief, Nelson channelled her experience into campaigning for systemic change — pushing for universal SMA screening across England.

## When Will Screening Begin?

Scotland already has an SMA screening programme in place for newborns. England will now follow suit, with screening rolling out across most of the country from **October 2026** as part of a large-scale study. A full nationwide expansion is targeted for **October 2027**.

Earlier proposals had drawn criticism for only covering approximately 72% of England, sparking controversy among patient advocates and affected families.

### How the Test Works

The screening is carried out using a simple heel prick test — a procedure already familiar to new parents, in which a small blood sample is taken from a newborn's heel shortly after birth. The sample is then tested for genetic markers associated with SMA.

## What Happens Next?

Hundreds of thousands of babies are expected to be screened as part of the study, which will be led by researchers at the **University of Oxford**. The findings will inform a final recommendation by the UK National Screening Committee on whether SMA testing should be made a permanent part of the newborn screening programme.

Health Secretary James Murray praised the campaigners who had worked tirelessly to bring this issue to national attention. "No parent should have to watch their child lose the ability to move or breathe, knowing that earlier treatment could have made all the difference," he said, adding that he was "in awe" of those who had driven the cause forward.

## A Message of Hope

For Nelson, the announcement carries profound personal meaning — even as she continues to navigate the challenges her own daughters face. "After years of campaigning, it means so much," she said. "Today is a day of hope. Knowing that future families will have access to early diagnosis and the opportunity for the best possible outcomes is something I'm incredibly proud to have supported."

While the screening cannot alter the trajectory for children already living with SMA, Nelson acknowledged that it "marks the beginning of a brighter future for future SMA families" — a sentiment shared by the broader community of advocates, scientists, and healthcare professionals who have long championed this cause.

England will test every newborn for Spinal Muscular Atrophy from 2026. Jesy Nelson calls the landmark screening programme a victory for SMA families.

England to Screen All Newborns for Spinal Muscular Atrophy

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England to Screen All Newborns for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in Landmark Health Move

## How a Single Drink Nearly Cost a Man His Life

For most people, enjoying a drink at a social gathering is a routine, carefree experience. For Calum, it became the beginning of a life-altering nightmare. After unknowingly consuming a beverage contaminated with methanol — a toxic industrial alcohol — he found himself fighting for survival.

### What Is Methanol and Why Is It So Dangerous?

Methanol, often referred to as wood alcohol, is a highly toxic chemical compound that can be found in illegally produced or poorly regulated alcoholic beverages. Unlike ethanol, the type of alcohol found in legitimate drinks, methanol is poisonous even in small quantities. The body metabolizes it into formic acid and formaldehyde, both of which can cause severe organ damage, blindness, and death.

The particularly alarming aspect of methanol poisoning is how deceptive it can be. Symptoms may not appear immediately, and early signs — such as headache, nausea, and dizziness — can be easily mistaken for ordinary intoxication. By the time serious complications emerge, critical damage may already be done.

### Calum's Story: From a Social Setting to a Medical Emergency

Calum's ordeal began with what seemed like an ordinary drink. What followed was a devastating medical crisis that reshaped his life entirely. After being poisoned by methanol, he endured a painful and uncertain recovery process that left lasting physical and emotional effects.

Rather than retreating from the experience in silence, Calum made the courageous decision to speak out. He has since joined a dedicated awareness campaign aimed at educating the public about the very real and often underestimated dangers of methanol poisoning.

### Raising Awareness: A Mission Born From Tragedy

Calum's involvement in the campaign reflects a growing need for public education around alcohol safety. Methanol poisoning incidents are not isolated to developing countries or war zones — they can and do occur in everyday settings, often linked to counterfeit spirits, unregulated home brews, or drinks purchased from unverified sources.

Health authorities and advocacy groups continue to stress the importance of knowing where your drink comes from. Purchasing alcohol from reputable, licensed vendors significantly reduces the risk of exposure to dangerous substances like methanol.

### Warning Signs to Watch For

If you or someone around you has consumed alcohol and begins showing the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately:

- Sudden vision changes or blurred eyesight
- Severe headache or dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion or loss of consciousness

Early medical intervention is critical in methanol poisoning cases. Treatment often involves the administration of ethanol or fomepizole to counteract methanol's toxic effects, alongside supportive hospital care.

### The Broader Message

Calum's story is a stark reminder that alcohol-related dangers extend far beyond well-known risks. Methanol poisoning is a preventable tragedy, and awareness is the first line of defense. By sharing his experience, Calum hopes to ensure that no one else has to endure what he went through — all because of a single drink.

Calum survived methanol poisoning and is now raising awareness. Learn the dangers, symptoms, and how to protect yourself from toxic alcohol.

Methanol Poisoning: One Drink That Changed His Life

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One Drink Changed Everything: A Survivor's Battle With Methanol Poisoning

## A Mother's Desperate Appeal for Justice

In one of the most emotionally charged testimonies heard at the Lampard Inquiry, Victoria Sebastian stood before investigators and issued a direct, haunting appeal to the inquiry's chair: "Don't let the blood be on your hands — you can change things."

Victoria was speaking about the death of her daughter, Elise Sebastian, a 16-year-old autistic girl who was found unresponsive in her room at the St Aubyn Centre in Colchester in April 2021. Her four-hour testimony, delivered in London on Monday, painted a devastating picture of systemic failures within Essex mental health services.

---

## The Lampard Inquiry: Examining Over 2,000 Deaths

The Lampard Inquiry is a large-scale public investigation scrutinising the deaths of more than 2,000 individuals who were under the care of Essex mental health services between 2000 and 2023. The inquiry is chaired by Baroness Lampard, who has committed to placing bereaved families at the very centre of the process.

Baroness Lampard has stated her intention to identify deep-rooted, systemic failures from which the entire country can draw lessons and implement lasting improvements in mental healthcare.

---

## Elise's Story: A Teenager Let Down by the System

Described by her mother as a young girl who adored animals and had a passion for Harry Potter, Elise Sebastian was far more than a case number. She was a child whose struggles began early and whose needs were repeatedly misunderstood.

According to Victoria, Elise began experiencing significant anxiety from the age of 10, alongside a range of physical health challenges — including a spinal curvature and bowel complications. Rather than receiving proper investigation and support, Elise was repeatedly dismissed by medical professionals.

### Dismissed and Misunderstood

"She was made to feel like she had health anxiety from when she was 11," Victoria told the inquiry. "We'd take her to lots of different doctors and they'd tell her it was all in her head and she needed therapy."

In a particularly painful irony, on the very day Elise died, Victoria received a call from a rheumatology department raising concerns about her daughter's joints — with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome being considered as a possible diagnosis.

"I said to them: 'It's too late,'" Victoria recalled.

---

## Conditions at the St Aubyn Centre: 'Not Fit for Purpose'

Elise had been admitted to Essex mental health units on multiple occasions. Victoria described the St Aubyn Centre as "not fit for purpose" and said her daughter experienced bullying from other patients, even being physically assaulted because she was trying to get better.

Despite being placed under a legal section — meaning her mother had no right to remove her from the unit — Victoria said she never felt her daughter was safe within its walls.

"I wanted to take her home, but I would have been arrested because she was on a section. I wasn't allowed to take my child home, and she was not safe," she said.

### Dangerous Staffing Levels and Monitoring Failures

The inquiry uncovered alarming details about the conditions on the ward at the time of Elise's death. With 11 patients requiring observation, staffing ratios meant a single staff member would have needed to check on a patient approximately every 54 seconds to meet required standards.

Although Elise was supposed to be under continuous one-to-one observation, she was left alone for 28 minutes before she was found unresponsive.

Further compounding these failures, staff were relying on infrared Oxevision cameras to monitor patients — but poor wi-fi connectivity hindered access to real-time information, and emergency alarm systems had been muted.

### Weekend Vulnerabilities

Victoria told the inquiry that weekends were a source of particular anxiety for Elise. Bank staff who rotated through the ward on those days were unfamiliar with individual patients and their needs. Elise was found unresponsive on a weekend, and her mother criticised the response, noting that some staff on duty that day did not know standard ward procedures.

---

## A Coroner's Finding and an NHS Apology

A coroner concluded that neglect contributed to Elise's death — a finding that underscores the gravity of what the inquiry is now examining in full.

Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), which oversees mental health services across Essex, issued a formal apology. Trevor Smith, Chief Executive of EPUT, said: "I am sorry that Elise did not receive the care she deserved and offer my deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones. All of us across healthcare have a responsibility to work together to improve care and treatment for all."

---

## Victoria's Demands: Real Change, Not Empty Promises

Victoria Sebastian did not come to the inquiry simply to grieve. She came with specific, actionable demands — and a clear message that words alone are not enough.

She called for:

- **Comprehensive, regularly refreshed training** in physical healthcare and resuscitation for all mental health staff
- **An outright ban on infrared camera monitoring** in mental health wards, citing its unreliability and false sense of security
- **Greater family involvement** in care decisions, ensuring that loved ones are treated as partners rather than bystanders

She expressed her belief that Baroness Lampard has the authority and influence to ensure the inquiry's recommendations translate into genuine, lasting reform — not simply another set of ignored guidelines.

"They let my daughter die," Victoria told the hearing. "My daughter meant nothing to them. Absolutely nothing."

---

*If you or someone you know is affected by mental health issues, support and advice is available 24 hours a day through dedicated organisations. Please reach out — you do not have to face this alone.*

Victoria Sebastian testifies at the Lampard Inquiry after her 16-year-old daughter Elise died in an Essex mental health unit, demanding urgent systemic change.

Mother's Plea at Lampard Inquiry Over Daughter's Death

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Mother's Heartbreaking Plea to Lampard Inquiry: 'Don't Let Blood Be on Your Hands'

## TB Outbreak Strikes Colorado ICE Detention Facility

At least a dozen people held at a federal immigration detention center in Aurora, Colorado, have tested positive for tuberculosis in recent days, according to firsthand accounts from inside the facility. Dozens of additional detainees have reportedly been placed under quarantine as health concerns continue to mount at the troubled institution.

### Conditions Inside: No AC, No Separation of Sick and Healthy

A detained Mexican man in his 30s — whose name is being withheld due to fears of retaliation — shared details of the situation through his partner via telephone. He has been held at the Aurora ICE Processing Center since December and described conditions as deeply troubling.

According to his account, all 88 individuals within his housing pod underwent tuberculosis testing on Saturday. Twelve came back positive — a sharp rise from just one confirmed case three days prior. Rather than isolating those who tested positive from healthy detainees, guards reportedly kept the entire group together and imposed a quarantine of at least one week on everyone in the pod.

Compounding the health crisis, the pod's air conditioning system reportedly failed on Sunday. Staff handed out electric fans as a temporary fix, but on Monday afternoon, Aurora was under an active heat advisory with outdoor temperatures reaching 96°F (36°C). The detainee described the environment as "uncomfortable," though he noted that some individuals appeared to be receiving medication during morning and afternoon rounds.

## Federal Agencies and Private Operator Remain Silent

Neither the Department of Homeland Security nor the GEO Group — the Florida-based private corporation contracted to operate the facility on behalf of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) — responded to requests for comment or confirmation of the outbreak.

The Aurora ICE Processing Center has a published capacity of 1,532 detainees and housed 1,249 individuals as recently as March. It remains unclear whether other housing pods at the facility have been tested or whether additional positive cases have been identified beyond the 12 already reported.

## Family Members Express Fear Over Severity of TB

The long-term partner of the infected detainee — a U.S. citizen living in south Florida — expressed serious concern about the unfolding situation. Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that, in its active form, spreads through the air and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

"I don't know if they understand the severity of what TB is," the partner said. "He has some underlying health conditions, which makes this even more worrying. The first day, he was very scared."

The partner also questioned why the air conditioning had not been repaired more quickly. "I manage restaurants — if we lose AC, we get it fixed within 24 to 48 hours. I don't understand why a multimillion-dollar corporation can't send out a technician."

## A Pattern of Health Failures at Aurora

This latest outbreak is not an isolated incident. Court documents from a lawsuit filed by Democratic lawmakers seeking greater transparency from the Trump administration over deaths and illnesses in federal detention facilities reveal that a similar TB outbreak apparently occurred at the same Aurora facility in April of last year.

Congressman Jason Crow, a Democrat who represents Aurora and is a plaintiff in that lawsuit, has been tracking conditions at the facility for years. His office reports that he or his staff have conducted more than 90 oversight visits since 2019 — though there have been multiple documented instances in which he was denied entry.

"For-profit prisons have perpetuated ICE's lawlessness and endangered our communities," Crow said in a statement. "I've led the charge to end this broken and inhumane system. Until we do, I'll continue to conduct oversight to hold ICE accountable."

## GEO Group Faces Scrutiny Nationally

The GEO Group, which has documented ties to members of the Trump administration, has faced legal challenges at multiple facilities it operates across the country. Last month, New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport filed suit against the company in an attempt to compel access for state health officials to the Delaney Hall ICE detention center in Newark.

Detainees at that facility launched a hunger strike over visitation restrictions, deteriorating conditions, and inadequate medical care. Violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement erupted outside the center.

On its website, GEO Group maintains that it provides "around-the-clock access to medical care" at its Aurora facility and claims its healthcare staffing levels exceed those of many state correctional systems. Critics and lawmakers, however, continue to question whether those standards are being met in practice.

At least 12 detainees at Aurora's ICE detention center have tested positive for tuberculosis amid quarantine and reports of broken air conditioning in extreme h

TB Outbreak at Colorado ICE Jail Sickens 12 Detainees

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TB Outbreak at Colorado ICE Detention Center Leaves 12 Sick, Dozens in Quarantine

## Ebola Crisis in Eastern Congo Escalates Beyond Health Officials' Control

The Ebola outbreak ravaging eastern Congo has reached a deeply alarming threshold, with the World Health Organization confirming that four out of every five new infections are emerging from transmission chains that health authorities cannot identify or monitor. As the death toll climbs past 700, the outbreak continues to outrun every containment effort put in place.

### Outbreak Growing Faster Than the Response Can Keep Up

Since Congo officially declared the outbreak on May 15, the situation has deteriorated at an unprecedented pace. The Africa Centres for Disease Control has described it as the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak ever recorded on the African continent. The virus responsible is the rare Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved vaccine or treatment currently exists.

As of this week, confirmed figures show at least 1,926 people have been infected across three provinces in Congo, with 702 confirmed deaths. Cases have also crossed into neighboring Uganda, raising fears of broader regional spread.

### Deaths Occurring Outside the Health System

Chikwe Ihekweazu, the WHO's emergency chief, painted a sobering picture following his visit to Bunia, the capital of Ituri province and one of the areas hardest hit by the outbreak.

"Perhaps the most alarming finding is that many of the newly reported deaths are people who died in their communities without ever reaching a health facility and without receiving care," Ihekweazu said. "As of today, 80% of new cases are outside our contact lists and are coming to us from unknown chains of transmission."

When people die at home or in their communities rather than in medical facilities, it becomes nearly impossible to isolate the deceased, trace their contacts, or prevent further spread. This breakdown in the chain of detection is a significant driver of the outbreak's acceleration.

### Treatment Infrastructure Expanding, But Not Fast Enough

Ihekweazu acknowledged measurable progress in building response capacity. Treatment facilities in Bunia now have close to 800 beds, and laboratory testing capacity has grown dramatically — from just one lab at the outbreak's start to 14 operational labs today. Despite these gains, he was candid about the shortfall.

"Despite our best efforts, we have not caught up in the race," he told reporters in Geneva. The outbreak, he added, "continues to outpace the response efforts."

Clinical trials for potential treatments launched last week, offering a glimmer of hope in what has otherwise been a grim progression of events.

### Healthcare Workers Strike Amid Unpaid Wages

Adding to the crisis, dozens of healthcare workers at an Ebola treatment center in northeastern Congo walked off the job on Monday over unpaid salaries and bonuses. The one-day strike had immediate consequences, leaving patients without access to the facility.

"Just one day of strike action has already caused damage," the striking workers stated. "We hold the government solely responsible for any loss of life if the site closes after this ultimatum."

The workers agreed to return on Tuesday, conditional on receiving their overdue payments within 72 hours.

### Multiple Obstacles Hampering Containment Efforts

Beyond the financial disputes, responders are contending with a series of compounding challenges. Active armed conflict in eastern Congo has made it dangerous to operate in certain areas. Community mistrust toward health workers and authorities has slowed outreach and cooperation. Attacks on health centers have disrupted operations, and a significant funding gap has constrained the overall response.

Adding an international dimension to the crisis, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed on July 11 that an American citizen employed by a humanitarian organization in Congo had tested positive for the Ebola virus, though further details were not disclosed.

### A Race Against Time

With the Bundibugyo strain continuing to spread across three Congolese provinces and into Uganda, health officials are under enormous pressure to close the gap between the virus and containment efforts. The path forward depends on expanding community engagement, securing adequate funding, protecting healthcare workers, and accelerating clinical trials — all while a rapidly moving outbreak tests the limits of the global health response.

The Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo is spiraling out of control, with 80% of new cases untraceable and over 700 dead. Here's what's happening on the ground.

Ebola Outbreak in Congo: Death Toll Tops 700, Cases Untracea

Ebola Outbreak in Eastern Congo Spirals Out of Control as Death Toll Surpasses 700

## Trump's Third CDC Nominee Faces Senate Scrutiny

Dr. Erica Schwartz, President Trump's latest choice to head the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee on July 15 for her confirmation hearing. The session marked her first public appearance since Trump tapped her for the position in mid-April, and it placed her squarely in the spotlight of one of the most politically charged public health debates in recent memory.

Schwartz is the third individual Trump has nominated to lead the CDC during his second term — an agency that has operated without a permanent director for most of that period.

## Who Is Dr. Erica Schwartz?

Schwartz brings an impressive and varied background to her nomination. A retired rear admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, she holds advanced degrees in medicine, law, and public health. Her career includes serving as chief medical officer of the U.S. Coast Guard and as deputy surgeon general during Trump's first administration.

In early 2025, Schwartz publicly endorsed vaccines as essential tools for disease prevention and military readiness — a position she shared on Instagram. The post drew attention after her nomination was announced, and her Instagram account was subsequently taken down.

Public health professionals have reacted positively to her candidacy. Dr. Marcus Plescia, district health director for Fulton County — home to CDC headquarters in Atlanta — expressed cautious optimism.

"People are very supportive of her potentially stepping into this role," Plescia said. "What we really need right now is a CDC director who can speak to the emerging issues we're facing and establish themselves for the long term."

## A Rocky Road to Confirmation

Schwartz is widely expected to clear the Senate confirmation process, but the path that led to her nomination tells a story of turbulence and instability.

Trump's first CDC pick, Dr. Dave Weldon, saw his nomination pulled just before his confirmation hearing after it became clear he lacked the necessary Senate support. His second choice, Susan Monarez, was confirmed by the Senate but was dismissed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after less than a month on the job.

If confirmed, Schwartz will serve under Kennedy, whose department oversees the CDC. Kennedy entered office with an aggressive agenda to reshape federal vaccine policy — moves that have largely been blocked by a federal judge, though the underlying intent remains.

"The political agenda is still there," said Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. However, Benjamin noted a subtle shift in the political climate. "The president has had to pull Kennedy back because the approach was causing political damage. That may give the next CDC director a bit more breathing room to follow the evidence."

## Internal Chaos Laid Bare

A batch of internal CDC emails released by Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont has cast a harsh light on the disarray that gripped the agency between January and August 2025. The correspondence reveals an institution struggling under the weight of mass staff departures, blurred lines of authority, and mounting political interference.

In one notable exchange from August 19, 2025, Matt Buckham — then chief of staff to Secretary Kennedy — emailed outgoing Director Monarez urging "political review of major policy decisions at CDC" by senior political leadership. The message ended with the phrase "Make America Great!"

Other emails documented widespread confusion about who was actually running the agency, the chaotic rollout of workforce reductions, and efforts by Kennedy's team to steer vaccine policy decisions in directions that contradicted both legal counsel and scientific guidance from CDC experts.

## Morale at an All-Time Low

The toll on CDC staff has been significant. In a recent internal all-hands meeting — a recording of which was obtained by NPR from a current employee who requested anonymity — Sean Slovenski, a former Walmart executive now serving as the CDC's deputy director and chief operating officer, acknowledged the deep wounds left on the workforce.

"If any organization had gone through even one of the things you've endured in the last year and a half, it would be traumatic for years to come. You've had multiple ones," Slovenski told employees.

He pledged transparency as the agency moves through an upcoming reorganization. "I'm not promising that everyone will be happy. What I'm promising is that everyone will be clear — they'll know what's coming, and they'll know it was handled thoughtfully."

## A Second Nomination on the Agenda

Wednesday's hearing also included a confirmation session for Sean Kaufman, nominated to serve as Assistant Secretary for Strategic Preparedness and Response at HHS. Kaufman, currently a senior CDC adviser for global affairs, has experience responding to infectious disease outbreaks including anthrax and West Nile virus.

However, his record has raised concerns among some public health advocates. According to his LinkedIn profile, Kaufman has served as an expert witness in cases defending individuals who faced professional consequences for refusing COVID-19 vaccines, and he has publicly questioned the safety and necessity of universal COVID-19 and hepatitis B vaccination. The ASPR role he seeks carries direct responsibility for overseeing pandemic vaccine development and emergency health countermeasures.

Dr. Erica Schwartz, Trump's third CDC director nominee, faced a Senate confirmation hearing amid agency turmoil, staff cuts, and political interference.