National Institutes of Health (NIH)

A policy shift ending Medicaid funding for youth sex-change treatments was analyzed by Dr. Quentin Van Meter, the immediate past president of the American College of Pediatricians. Van Meter stated that blocking these interventions is appropriate and not a denial of care, arguing instead for ongoing mental health treatment for underlying issues. He further argued that 'puberty is not a disease' and cited conflicting medical studies as evidence against sex-change procedures.

A veteran pediatrician, Dr. Quentin Van Meter, praised the policy shift ending Medicaid funding for youth sex-change treatments. He argued that this restriction was 'compassionate' and appropriate, advocating instead for ongoing mental health treatment to address underlying issues. Van Meter further asserted that puberty is not a disease and cited concerns regarding potential risks associated with these interventions.

The U.S. preteen suicide rate has risen significantly, with 194 preteens aged 8-12 dying by suicide in 2025—the highest since 2001. Experts link the trend to stressors like the pandemic, social media, bullying, and policies restricting gender-affirming care. A case study highlights challenges in accessing mental health care for children.

Dr. Anthony Fauci faces a Senate committee hearing led by Sen. Rand Paul, who accuses him of inconsistencies between private pandemic-era diary entries and public statements. The hearing focuses on whether NIH-funded research in China contributed to the pandemic's origins, despite scientific consensus favoring a natural emergence in Wuhan. Fauci's team and scientists refute the allegations as baseless.

The leading causes of death in 1776 were infectious diseases like smallpox and tuberculosis, driven by lack of antibiotics, vaccines, and modern medical practices. Today, chronic conditions dominate due to advancements in public health, sanitation, and medical technology, with life expectancy rising from 30 to 80 years. Key breakthroughs include vaccines, germ theory, and improved water sanitation.

A watchdog group exposed at least $3.85 million in taxpayer funding linked to the Southern Poverty Law Center, including a $2.5 million NIH-backed University of Michigan grant for integrating SPLC's "Learning for Justice" curriculum into middle school classrooms. The program has drawn criticism from Republican lawmakers and watchdog organizations over its content, which some argue presents activist messaging as equivalent to hate groups. The Department of Health and Human Services stated the program is no longer being funded and has been redesigned.

Marty Makary resigned as FDA Commissioner, leaving a vacancy at the agency's top position. This comes after a year of significant changes, including an announcement about Covid-19 vaccine recommendations. The resignation follows a period of challenges for the agency's drug and biologics divisions.

Long COVID affects an estimated 18 million Americans and is a growing public health crisis, with Senator Todd Young pushing for more research and Secretary Kennedy committing to continue efforts to identify biomarkers. The disease causes various symptoms, including cognitive dysfunction and extreme fatigue. There is currently no molecular diagnostic test or definitive therapy.

Ridglan Farms in Wisconsin began transferring 1,500 beagles to rescue groups like Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy after a deal to end their breeding operations. The move follows years of controversy over animal mistreatment allegations and legal actions against the facility, which bred dogs for biomedical research for over six decades.

David M. Morens, a former top advisor to Dr. Anthony Fauci, was indicted by the Justice Department for allegedly using private emails to conceal communications about the origins of the COVID-19 virus, evading federal transparency laws and FOIA requests. Prosecutors claim he conspired to hide discussions related to a controversial research grant involving the Wuhan Institute of Virology and justified receiving gifts by promoting a natural origin theory for the virus.

Hundreds of animal welfare activists clashed with Wisconsin deputies at Ridglan Farms, leading to the use of pepper spray, tear gas, and rubber bullets. Activist Wayne Hsiung was arrested for conspiracy to commit burglary, and authorities described the protest as non-peaceful despite claims of 'compassion.' The incident involved road blockades and attempts to breach the facility's barriers.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order to accelerate the review of psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine, which is controversial due to safety risks but advocated for by veterans and conservative lawmakers. The FDA will fast-track approvals using national priority vouchers, marking the first time psychedelics receive such expedited review. The move aims to expand access to potential treatments for conditions like PTSD and opioid addiction.