We testified at the House Small Business Committee

NCHR President Dr. Diana Zuckerman testified at the House of Representatives Small Business Committee hearing on May 8. The focus of the hearing was the ways that federal regulations could interfere with small businesses to develop innovative medical products and provide health care, a perspective that we challenged. As is customary in the House, the Ranking Democrat on the committee, Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), was able to invite only one speaker, and we were proud that she chose us. Dr. Zuckerman gave examples where FDA granted approval to new drugs submitted by small businesses despite questionable evidence that they were effective. In one case, the drug was taken off the market when it was clear it didn't work, in the other case, 8 years later we still don't know if the drug works. In both cases, patients, health insurance, and Medicaid paid millions of dollars. As quoted in the media outlet Medical Economics, Dr. Zuckerman stated "If the FDA reduces the burden on companies by not requiring them to provide clear evidence that a new product is safe and effective, that increases the burden on patients, families, and physicians because we must make life-changing and life-saving medical decisions without the facts we need to make the decisions that are best for us and our patients." Read the entire article here. Read the full testimony here.

Dr. Zuckerman also testified before the Consumer Product Safety Commission on the same day, at their hearing requesting suggestions for priorities for 2025 and 2026. Our testimony focused on the need to protect children and adults from the chemicals, lead, and other heavy metals in products made from "recycled" tire waste. In addition to playgrounds and artificial turf, Dr. Zuckerman pointed out that the greatest risk could be its use in rubber flooring in homes, in playrooms and exercise rooms, and in swing sets and other play equipment in backyards as well as landscaping options. 

Lunchables and similar lunch kits were tested for heavy metals, phthalates, and sodium

Many kids enjoy Lunchables, which are convenient prepackaged meals with deli meats, cheese, and crackers. They're easy for parents to pack for school lunches and have even made their way into some school cafeteria menus. But are they the best choice for our kids' health? These foods are highly processed and the main ingredient is often processed meats, which have been linked to increased cancer risks. Consumer Reports tested Lunchables and similar snack kits to evaluate lead, phthalates, and sodium. The results show that some kits had worrisome levels of heavy metals and phthalates, and all were high in sodium, which can increase high blood pressure. The school lunch versions of Lunchables weren't any better and even had more sodium than the store-bought versions. Read more here. 

Can scientists get more accurate info about the diet from studying poop?

Research at Duke University delves into the mysteries of human diets through the analysis of DNA extracted from feces. Inspired by methods used to study animal diets in the African savanna, Lawrence David scrutinizes the genetic material present in poop, gaining valuable insights into what people eat and how it affects obesity and other health issues. This innovative approach offers a promising avenue for personalized nutrition strategies and sheds light on the links between diet and disease. Read more here. 

EPA limits toxic air pollution from chemical plants

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently implemented stricter regulations on toxic air pollution from chemical plants, the most substantial change in two decades. Aimed at preventing cancer in low-income and minority communities near these facilities, the rule particularly targets cancer-causing gases like ethylene oxide and chloroprene. The EPA's move responds to mounting concerns over the health risks posed by long-term exposure to these chemicals, which have been linked to various cancers. By curbing emissions from roughly 200 chemical plants across the country, the regulation aims to significantly reduce toxic air pollution and improve air quality for affected communities. Read more here. 

Could better asthma inhalers help patients, and the planet too?

Dr. Miguel Divo at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston introduced a new type of asthma inhaler that doesn't release harmful gases, making it better for the environment. These dry powder inhalers are as effective as traditional ones but without the negative impact on our planet. Switching to this new inhaler could be as beneficial as taking many cars off the road each year, helping to reduce air pollution. Read more about how adopting these inhalers can help both asthma patients and the environment here.

Fecal matter transplants - what you need to know

Fecal matter transplants are a new treatment being explored for infections caused by bacteria such as C. diff. They are intended to work by using healthy gut bacteria from a donor to help fix the patient's gut. This treatment is still under study and only one specific type is FDA-approved. However, there are risks, such as catching other diseases, and problems with people trying it on their own without medical guidance. If you're interested, it's important to talk to a doctor to see if it's safe and right for you. Learn more about it here.