A Champion Falls
U.S. primary elections have taken down a fierce champion of medical research. For all of us who count on cures and treatments for the diseases that shorten and stunt human lives, the absence of Arlen Specter from the U.S. Senate will be deeply felt.
In response to President Obama’s March 9th Executive Order lifting the Bush Administration’s restrictions on stem cell research, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued draft guidelines on the federal funding of this research. The public comment period for the draft is open through May 26th so there’s still time to have your voice heard!
The Alzheimer’s Epidemic Marches On
Alzheimer’s disease has taken an unfortunate step in front of the national news spotlight as of late. The last two evenings, I have seen features on the evening news highlighting the devastating effects of the disease both as a public health epidemic and as a personal, family struggle.
A Research Jolt for Economic Stimulus
Medical research will get a huge boost from the economic stimulus about to be signed into law by President Obama.
I can’t remember the House and Senate ever conferencing on a spending bill and, instead of splitting the difference between higher and lower amounts, deciding to add the competing bills together! But that’s our legislators did for disease research at the National Institutes of Health.
Improving Access to Dental Care for Seniors
The health and overall well-being of seniors can be improved with regular dental services. In many circumstances, ignoring oral care can lead to the development of oral diseases, tooth loss, infection, and if left untreated, death.
A "Pro-Cures" FDA
One week into the Obama Administration and the choice of a new Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration may be only days away. This is a critical moment for anyone who will face a life-threatening or life-shortening disease or disability. Aging Baby Boomers take note: in time, if not right now, the FDA choice will affect you directly and personally.
Test Your Techno Tolerance
How do you feel about genetic engineering? What’s your position on stem cell research? Is it ok for us to invest technology that could make us immortal? What kind of restrictions should be placed on our use of technology? Are you a neo-luddite? Transhumanist?
Data on Chronic Disease Helps Inform the Debate
While Senators Obama and McCain agree on few things when it comes to overhauling the American health care system, both have acknowledged the importance of a plan that addresses chronic disease—the primary driver of health care costs.
