Following expert medical advice, the UK government has implemented an indefinite ban on puberty blockers for under-18s with gender dysphoria, except within clinical trials. This decision, supported by the Commission on Human Medicines citing unacceptable safety risks, makes permanent the emergency measures initially introduced in May. The ban applies UK-wide, following consultation with devolved administrations, and affects new patients only; existing patients will continue treatment. A planned clinical trial aims to establish a clearer evidence base for the medication’s use.
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Hannah Kobayashi, a Maui resident missing since November after arriving in Los Angeles, has been found safe. Her family released a statement expressing relief and requesting privacy. While Kobayashi initially missed a connecting flight and later traveled to Mexico, authorities believe she intentionally missed her flight. This follows the recent death of her father, Ryan Kobayashi, who was found deceased near LAX.
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In a significant development, drug overdose deaths in the U.S. experienced a record 17% decrease between July 2023 and July 2024, according to a new CDC report. This follows record-high overdose numbers in 2022, exceeding 108,000 deaths. Attributed to increased naloxone access, targeted law enforcement efforts, and expanded treatment options, this substantial drop marks a major turning point in the fight against the opioid crisis. The White House credits the administration’s comprehensive strategy, which includes international cooperation, for contributing to this positive trend.
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A California child fell ill with flu-like symptoms after consuming raw milk from Raw Farm, prompting an investigation into a potential H5N1 bird flu case. Initial CDC tests for H5 flu were negative, though further testing is ongoing. The milk producer, Raw Farm, had already recalled several lots of milk and cream after bird flu was detected in their products. The child recovered fully, and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
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The proposed $25 billion merger between Albertsons and Kroger, aiming to combine the fifth and tenth largest US grocery retailers, has been terminated. A federal judge blocked the deal, citing concerns that the merger would eliminate competition and potentially raise prices for consumers. Albertsons subsequently sued Kroger for breach of contract, while Kroger countered with accusations of Albertsons’ own breaches. The FTC’s opposition, along with concerns from unions and politicians, ultimately contributed to the deal’s collapse, a win for FTC Chair Lina Khan.
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Fingerprints at the UnitedHealthcare CEO’s murder scene match those of suspect Luigi Mangione, establishing a crucial forensic link. Mangione, currently in Pennsylvania custody on gun and identity-related charges, is fighting extradition to New York, where he faces murder charges. Investigators are exploring a potential motive stemming from Mangione’s anger towards the healthcare industry, fueled by a back injury and allegedly supported by his writings expressing resentment towards corporate greed. While Mangione’s attorney denies his client’s involvement, authorities have obtained a “manifesto” and other writings indicating a planned attack targeting the CEO.
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New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the Freedom to Read Act, prohibiting book bans in public schools and libraries and protecting compliant librarians. This action counters a national trend of conservative efforts to restrict access to books, particularly those addressing LGBTQ+ issues and race, with over 10,000 books removed from schools this year alone, according to PEN America. The law, effective in one year, follows similar legislation in Illinois and Minnesota, and allows immediate implementation by state officials as needed. The new law aims to safeguard library integrity and foster critical thinking among students.
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Following the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, the NYPD issued a bulletin warning healthcare executives of increased risk. The bulletin cites an online “hitlist” and “wanted” posters targeting executives, fueled by social media celebrating the murder and justifying it based on perceived industry injustices. Suspect Luigi Mangione’s arrest, linked to the crime scene via fingerprints and a notebook detailing plans to target executives, has not quelled concerns. The resulting heightened security measures reflect corporate America’s nervous response to the escalating threat.
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Jay Feinman’s 2010 book, *Delay, Deny, Defend*, criticizing the US healthcare insurance industry’s claims practices, has surged in popularity following the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Bullet casings at the crime scene bore inscriptions mirroring the book’s title, raising speculation about a possible connection to the suspect, Luigi Mangione. The book details how insurance companies prioritize profits over fulfilling their promises to policyholders. While Feinman has remained silent on the matter, the book’s renewed prominence highlights the ongoing debate surrounding insurance industry practices.
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John Q. Hosedrinker