What We're Reading: Protections for Pre-existing Conditions; Shareholders Approve Cigna–Express Scripts Deal; Aspirin and CV Risk

GOP Senators Introduce Bill to Protect Preexisting Conditions

GOP senators have introduced legislation that they say would preserve provisions for people with preexisting conditions under the Affordable Care Act, reported The Hill. The senators said their bill would amend federal law to guarantee access to health insurance for all Americans, including those with preexisting conditions. The legislation would also prevent insurers from increasing premiums for individuals with preexisting conditions. However, critics say the bill would allow insurers to exclude coverage of preexisting conditions.

Shareholders Approve Cigna—Express Scripts Deal

Cigna shareholders have approved the proposed $52 billion acquisition of pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts. According to Reuters, 90% of shareholders voted in favor of the merger, which is expected to close by the end of 2018. The approval follows Carl Icahn’s attempt to sway shareholders against the deal.

Aspirin Does Not Lower CV Risk in Long-Term

According to study results coming out of the Aspirin to Reduce Risk of Initial Vascular Events trial, a daily dose of 100 mg of aspirin was not associated with a reduction in long-term risk for cardiovascular (CV) or cerebrovascular events. The trial randomly assigned over 12,000 nondiabetic adults with multiple CV risk factors but no history of CV events, reported Medscape.