Up to one-third of Americans have been affected by data stolen through the Change Healthcare cyberattack; research highlights potential cognitive and psychiatric benefits of semaglutide; over 40 Iowa hospitals have ended their labor and delivery services.
Change Healthcare Cyberattack Fuels Widespread Fraud Risks
The Change Healthcare cyberattack, which compromised the personal data of millions, is now expected to cause identity theft and various forms of fraud, according to Axios. Attorneys general from states including Indiana, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania are urging affected individuals to monitor their credit and be vigilant against suspicious activities. Despite the significant breach, UnitedHealth Group has faced criticism for delayed notifications to consumers and inadequate cybersecurity measures.
Ozempic Linked to Reduced Cognitive Problems in Patients With Diabetes
A new study finds semaglutide (Ozempic; Novo Nordisk) use is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive problems and nicotine dependence in patients who have diabetes, according to The Hill. Analyzing over 100,000 US patient records, the study revealed that semaglutide does not increase the risk of neurological or psychiatric conditions compared with other antidiabetic medications. Although the findings are promising, the observational nature of the study calls for further investigation to confirm these results and understand the underlying mechanisms.
Decline in Rural Birth Rates Forces Iowa Hospitals to Close Obstetrics Units
Rural Iowa is experiencing a significant decline in birth rates, leading to the closure of labor and delivery units in more than 40 hospitals since 2000, according to Kaiser Health News. This trend, reflective of a nationwide issue, leaves many rural areas without local birthing services, posing challenges for expectant mothers. Despite the closures, Oskaloosa’s Mahaska Health hospital has bucked the trend by expanding its obstetrics services and attracting new specialists, offering a glimmer of hope for rural health care.
At EHA 2025, Hematology Discussions Will Stretch Across Lifespans and Locations
June 5th 2025The 2025 European Hematology Association (EHA) Congress, convening virtually and in Milan, Italy, from June 12 to June 15, 2025, will feature a revamped program structure for the meeting’s 30th anniversary while maintaining ample opportunities to network, debate, and absorb practice-changing findings in hematology and oncology.
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Laundromats as a New Frontier in Community Health, Medicaid Outreach
May 29th 2025Lindsey Leininger, PhD, and Allister Chang, MPA, highlight the potential of laundromats as accessible, community-based settings to support Medicaid outreach, foster trust, and connect families with essential health and social services.
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Workers Facing Greater Economic Hardship More Likely to Report Poor Health
June 2nd 2025US workers facing high economic hardship, especially those in lower-wage occupations, were significantly more likely to report fair or poor health, underscoring persistent disparities in worker well-being.
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