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  • First-in-Class Drug Targeting Treatment-Resistant High Blood Pressure Wins FDA Approval — and Works Like No Existing Drug

    First-in-Class Drug Targeting Treatment-Resistant High Blood Pressure Wins FDA Approval — and Works Like No Existing Drug

    High blood pressure — hypertension — is the single most treatable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke, the two leading causes of death in the United States. There are already more than a dozen classes of antihypertensive medications. For most patients, combining two or three of these drugs in appropriate doses achieves adequate blood pressure control and dramatically reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and premature death.

    But for a significant subset — estimated at 10 to 15 percent of all hypertensive patients — blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite taking two, three, or even four medications at maximum tolerated doses. This is called resistant hypertension, and it represents one of the most clinically frustrating situations in internal medicine: a patient taking a handful of pills every day, experiencing their side effects, and still not achieving the blood pressure target that determines their future risk of cardiovascular catastrophe.

    For these patients, the FDA’s May 18, 2026 approval of baxdrostat (Baxfendy) — developed by AstraZeneca — represents the arrival of a fundamentally new therapeutic option built on a mechanism of action that no previously approved drug has ever targeted in this indication.

    “We have been waiting for an innovative medication like BAXFENDY for hypertension for many years,” said Bryan Williams, MD, Chair of Medicine at University College London and a primary investigator for the pivotal BaxHTN trial. “Its novel way of lowering blood pressure has the potential to transform clinical practice by targeting a root cause of persistently uncontrolled hypertension.”

    The Aldosterone Problem and Why Existing Drugs Miss It

    Aldosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates sodium and water retention in the kidneys. When aldosterone levels are excessive — whether due to a benign adrenal tumor (primary aldosteronism), stress-related overproduction, or other dysregulation — the kidneys retain too much sodium and water, blood volume rises, and blood pressure increases in a way that does not respond well to most standard antihypertensive mechanisms.

    The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is already a major target of existing hypertension drugs: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and direct renin inhibitors all interfere with the pathway that leads to aldosterone production. But these drugs do not directly target aldosterone synthase — the specific enzyme, encoded by the CYP11B2 gene, that is the final step in aldosterone manufacturing in the adrenal gland. Blocking earlier steps in the RAAS leaves aldosterone synthase activity largely intact, allowing it to produce aldosterone through compensatory mechanisms.

    Baxdrostat is a selective aldosterone synthase inhibitor — a small-molecule oral drug that directly and selectively inhibits CYP11B2, preventing aldosterone from being synthesized in the first place. This selectivity is critical: the enzyme CYP11B1, which produces cortisol and sits in a closely adjacent biochemical pathway, is not significantly affected by baxdrostat at therapeutic doses. This means baxdrostat lowers aldosterone — and therefore blood pressure — without disrupting the cortisol axis that regulates the stress response, immune function, and metabolism. AstraZeneca confirmed in clinical trials that baxdrostat lowered aldosterone levels without affecting cortisol levels.

    What the BaxHTN Phase 3 Trial Found

    The BaxHTN trial enrolled 796 patients with uncontrolled or resistant hypertension — all already on at least two antihypertensive agents, including a diuretic — and randomized them 1:1:1 to receive baxdrostat 2 mg once daily, baxdrostat 1 mg once daily, or placebo in addition to their background therapy, for 12 weeks.

    At week 12:

    • Patients on baxdrostat 2 mg had a 15.7 mmHg reduction in seated systolic blood pressure from baseline — a 9.8 mmHg placebo-adjusted reduction.
    • Patients on baxdrostat 1 mg had a 14.5 mmHg reduction — an 8.7 mmHg placebo-adjusted reduction.
    • The placebo group had a 5.8 mmHg reduction from baseline.

    Both doses met the primary endpoint of statistically significant systolic blood pressure reduction. The findings were consistent in patients with both uncontrolled hypertension (not at goal despite two or more drugs) and truly resistant hypertension (not at goal despite three or more drugs, including a diuretic). Results were also supported by a separate Phase 3 Lancet-published Bax24 trial using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, confirming the effect on 24-hour blood pressure rather than only the clinic reading.

    A 9.8 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure is not a cosmetic number. Systematic reviews of blood pressure interventions consistently show that each 5 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events by approximately 10 percent. For patients whose blood pressure has been inadequately controlled despite multiple medications — meaning they have been living with elevated cardiovascular risk despite treatment — a nearly 10 mmHg additional reduction is clinically meaningful and potentially life-extending.

    Who Will Benefit and What Comes Next

    Baxfendy is approved as an add-on oral treatment for adults with hypertension not adequately controlled on other medications. It is taken once daily in 1 mg or 2 mg doses. The key safety considerations identified in trials are hyperkalemia (elevated blood potassium), which requires periodic monitoring, and hyponatremia (low sodium) in some patients. Neither was dose-limiting in the vast majority of trial participants.

    The drug received Fast Track and Breakthrough Therapy designations from the FDA during development, signaling the agency’s recognition of the unmet need it addresses. AstraZeneca is also studying baxdrostat in additional conditions where aldosterone excess plays a mechanistic role, including chronic kidney disease and heart failure — conditions that frequently co-occur with resistant hypertension.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: What is baxdrostat (Baxfendy) and who is it for?

    A: Baxdrostat is the first-ever oral aldosterone synthase inhibitor, FDA-approved May 18, 2026 as an add-on treatment for adults with hypertension not adequately controlled on other antihypertensive medications.

    Q: How does baxdrostat work differently from other blood pressure drugs?

    A: It directly and selectively inhibits aldosterone synthase (the CYP11B2 enzyme), preventing aldosterone production at its source. No previously approved drug has targeted this specific enzyme. Existing RAAS drugs act earlier in the pathway and leave aldosterone synthase partially active.

    Q: How much does baxdrostat lower blood pressure?

    A: In the BaxHTN Phase 3 trial, baxdrostat 2 mg added to background therapy produced a 9.8 mmHg placebo-adjusted reduction in systolic blood pressure at 12 weeks. The 1 mg dose achieved an 8.7 mmHg reduction.

    Q: Does baxdrostat affect cortisol levels?

    A: No. Baxdrostat selectively inhibits CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase) without significantly affecting CYP11B1 (cortisol synthesis). Clinical trials confirmed aldosterone reductions without changes in cortisol.

    Q: What are the main side effects of baxdrostat?

    A: Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium) and hyponatremia (low sodium) are the primary safety considerations, both requiring periodic monitoring. Neither was dose-limiting in most trial participants.

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  • High Humidity Health Effects on Asthma, Fatigue, and Heat You Should Know

    High Humidity Health Effects on Asthma, Fatigue, and Heat You Should Know

    Humidity affects more than daily comfort, it plays a significant role in how the body responds to heat, respiratory stress, and energy levels. High humidity health risks are often underestimated, yet they can worsen conditions like asthma, increase fatigue, and make heat feel far more intense than it actually is.

    Understanding how humidity interacts with the body can help individuals better manage these effects and protect their well-being.

    What Is Humidity and How Does It Affect the Body?

    Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. Relative humidity, the most commonly used measure, indicates how saturated the air is with moisture compared to its maximum capacity.

    The human body relies on sweat to regulate temperature. When sweat evaporates from the skin, it cools the body down. However, in high humidity, the air is already saturated with moisture, making it harder for sweat to evaporate efficiently. As a result, the body retains heat, increasing the risk of overheating.

    This disruption in natural cooling is one of the main reasons humidity has such a strong impact on health, particularly in hot climates.

    Why High Humidity Makes Heat More Dangerous

    Heat becomes more hazardous when combined with humidity because the body struggles to release excess warmth. This is where the heat index comes into play, a measure that combines temperature and humidity to reflect how hot it actually feels.

    In high humidity conditions:

    • Sweat accumulates without evaporating
    • Core body temperature rises faster
    • The risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke increases

    For example, a temperature of 32°C may feel like 40°C or higher when humidity is elevated. This “feels like” temperature places additional stress on the cardiovascular system, as the heart works harder to regulate internal temperature.

    This explains why high humidity health risks are often more severe than dry heat alone.

    How Humidity Triggers and Worsens Asthma

    Humidity can significantly affect people with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Moist air tends to feel heavier, making breathing more difficult for sensitive individuals.

    Several factors contribute to asthma flare-ups in humid environments:

    • High humidity promotes the growth of mold and dust mites, both common asthma triggers
    • Damp airways may become more reactive, leading to inflammation
    • Thick, moisture-laden air can restrict airflow and cause discomfort

    In some cases, sudden exposure to humid air, such as stepping outside on a hot day, can trigger immediate symptoms like wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.

    Managing indoor humidity levels is especially important for individuals with asthma, as prolonged exposure to damp conditions can worsen symptoms over time, according to the World Health Organization.

    The Link Between Humidity and Fatigue

    Fatigue is another common effect of high humidity. When the body struggles to cool itself, it uses more energy to maintain a stable internal temperature.

    This increased effort can lead to:

    • Physical exhaustion due to prolonged heat exposure
    • Dehydration, which reduces energy levels
    • Poor sleep quality caused by warm, sticky conditions
    • Reduced concentration and mental clarity

    In humid environments, even routine activities may feel more tiring. The body’s constant attempt to regulate heat places strain on multiple systems, contributing to both physical and mental fatigue.

    High Humidity Health Risks You Should Know

    High humidity health concerns extend beyond discomfort. Prolonged exposure can lead to several serious conditions, particularly during periods of extreme heat.

    Key risks include:

    • Heat exhaustion, characterized by dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating
    • Heat stroke, a life-threatening condition involving dangerously high body temperature
    • Respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or chronic lung disease
    • Skin irritation or infections due to prolonged moisture exposure

    Certain populations are more vulnerable, including older adults, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Recognizing early warning signs is critical for preventing more severe outcomes.

    Why Does Humidity Make Asthma Worse?

    Humidity worsens asthma primarily by increasing exposure to airborne irritants and making breathing more laborious. Moist environments encourage allergens like mold spores and dust mites, which can inflame the airways.

    Additionally, humid air feels denser, which may create a sensation of restricted breathing. For individuals with asthma, this can trigger airway narrowing and exacerbate symptoms.

    Can High Humidity Cause Fatigue?

    Yes, high humidity can contribute to fatigue. The body expends more energy trying to cool itself when sweat cannot evaporate efficiently, as per Cleveland Clinic.

    This ongoing strain, combined with dehydration and poor sleep, can lead to persistent tiredness. Over time, this fatigue may affect productivity, mood, and overall health.

    What Humidity Level Is Unhealthy?

    Indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% are generally considered healthy. When humidity rises above 60%, the environment becomes more favorable for mold growth and dust mites.

    Prolonged exposure to high humidity levels can increase the likelihood of respiratory issues and other health concerns. Monitoring indoor humidity with a hygrometer can help maintain a healthier environment.

    Why Does Humid Heat Feel Hotter?

    Humid heat feels hotter because it interferes with the body’s natural cooling system. When sweat does not evaporate, heat remains trapped on the skin.

    This leads to a higher perceived temperature, known as the heat index. Even moderate temperatures can feel extreme when humidity is high, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.

    Can Humidity Affect Breathing?

    Humidity can affect breathing, particularly for individuals with asthma or other lung conditions. High moisture levels in the air can make breathing feel more difficult and may irritate the airways.

    In some cases, both high and low humidity can trigger respiratory discomfort, but high humidity is especially associated with allergen growth and airway inflammation.

    Who Is Most at Risk in High Humidity?

    Certain groups are more susceptible to high humidity health effects:

    • Individuals with asthma or chronic respiratory diseases
    • Older adults and young children
    • Outdoor workers and athletes exposed to prolonged heat
    • People with cardiovascular conditions

    These groups may experience more severe symptoms and should take extra precautions during humid weather.

    Tips to Stay Healthy in Humid Conditions

    Managing humidity exposure can significantly reduce health risks. Simple adjustments can make a noticeable difference.

    Effective strategies include:

    • Staying hydrated throughout the day
    • Using air conditioning or dehumidifiers indoors
    • Limiting outdoor activity during peak heat hours
    • Wearing lightweight, breathable clothing
    • Improving indoor ventilation to reduce moisture buildup

    Taking proactive steps helps maintain comfort and reduces the likelihood of heat-related illness and respiratory issues.

    When to Seek Medical Attention

    It is important to recognize when symptoms go beyond mild discomfort. Medical attention may be necessary if someone experiences:

    • Signs of heat stroke, such as confusion, rapid pulse, or loss of consciousness
    • Severe asthma symptoms that do not improve with medication
    • Persistent fatigue accompanied by dizziness or dehydration
    • Difficulty breathing or chest tightness

    Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

    Managing Humidity for Better Health and Daily Comfort

    Humidity has a direct and measurable impact on asthma, fatigue, and heat tolerance. High humidity health risks become more pronounced when the body cannot cool itself effectively, leading to increased strain on respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

    By understanding how humidity interacts with the body and taking steps to control exposure, individuals can reduce discomfort and protect their overall health, especially during periods of intense heat.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Does high humidity affect indoor air quality?

    Yes. High humidity encourages mold growth, dust mites, and bacteria, which can reduce indoor air quality and trigger respiratory issues.

    2. Can low humidity also impact health?

    Yes. Low humidity can dry out the skin, irritate airways, and increase susceptibility to infections, especially in air-conditioned environments.

    3. How does humidity influence exercise performance?

    High humidity can reduce endurance and increase fatigue because the body struggles to cool itself efficiently during physical activity.

    4. Are there devices that help control humidity at home?

    Yes. Dehumidifiers, air conditioners, and hygrometers can help monitor and regulate indoor humidity levels for better comfort and health.



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  • Why High Achievers Constantly Doubt Their Success

    Why High Achievers Constantly Doubt Their Success

    Imposter syndrome describes a pattern where capable people believe their success is undeserved, temporary, or the result of luck rather than skill. Imposter syndrome signs often appear after major wins—promotions, publications, or recognition—when confidence should peak but instead collapses into self doubt. High achievers are especially vulnerable, as perfectionism and high standards leave little room to internalize success. Studies show nearly 70% of adults experience imposter syndrome at least once, with roughly 30% facing it persistently.

    The cycle is consistent: achievement triggers brief relief, followed by anxiety about being exposed as incompetent. Confidence psychology helps explain this paradox, linking reward processing, attribution bias, and overactive self-monitoring. In competitive environments like medicine, academia, and leadership, imposter syndrome signs intensify, turning ambition into a constant effort to outrun imagined failure rather than enjoy earned progress.

    Imposter Syndrome Signs Linked to Perfectionism and Overpreparation

    Imposter syndrome signs frequently surface as extreme perfectionism and chronic overpreparation. High achievers often believe anything less than flawless performance confirms inadequacy, even when outcomes exceed expectations. This mindset leads to excessive rehearsal, long work hours, and constant self-editing. Confidence psychology shows that these behaviors are not about improvement but about reducing perceived exposure risk. Success becomes something to defend rather than own.

    According to research published by the American Psychological Association, Imposter syndrome is strongly associated with attribution bias, where individuals credit success to luck while internalizing failure as proof of incompetence. This explains why capable professionals dismiss praise, rewrite positive feedback, and feel relief rather than pride after accomplishments. Over time, this pattern increases burnout risk, doubles stress responses before evaluations, and reinforces the belief that effort—not ability—is the only thing preventing failure.

    Self Doubt and Attribution Traps Among High Achievers

    Self doubt among high achievers is rarely tied to actual ability or outcomes. Instead, it develops through distorted attribution patterns that separate effort from competence. Based on a study conducted by Stanford University’s Graduate School of Education, high performers are especially vulnerable to this effect in elite environments. Confidence psychology shows this reversal makes success feel fragile and failure feel personal.

    • Self doubt forms when achievements are credited to luck, timing, or external help
    • Imposter syndrome signs appear as mistakes are internalized as proof of inadequacy
    • Healthy attribution reverses, with failures viewed as personal and successes dismissed
    • High performers feel pressure to repeatedly re-prove competence despite strong results
    • The “local comparison effect” intensifies self doubt when surrounded by equally capable peers
    • Objective markers like grades, promotions, and credentials fail to correct perceived incompetence
    • A constant sense of being one step behind persists despite measurable excellence

    Confidence Psychology and the Brain’s Role in Feeling Like a Fraud

    Confidence psychology shows imposter syndrome is not purely emotional but rooted in neurological threat processing. Brain imaging reveals heightened self-monitoring that magnifies uncertainty in high achievers. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, persistent self doubt aligns closely with anxiety-related neural patterns and stress responses. These mechanisms cause normal performance variation to feel like exposure risk.

    • Increased activity in error-detection regions amplifies fear of small mistakes
    • Minor uncertainties trigger disproportionate stress and vigilance responses
    • Imposter syndrome signs intensify during evaluations, recognition, and unfamiliar tasks
    • Reduced self-efficacy signaling weakens confidence retention after success
    • Elevated cortisol reinforces threat perception during performance situations
    • Gender and cultural expectations can further intensify these neural patterns

    Behavioral Manifestations and Career Impacts

    Imposter syndrome signs quietly shape behavior in ways that limit long-term growth. High achievers often overwork to compensate for imagined deficiencies, volunteer for extra responsibilities, or delay advancement to avoid visibility. Self doubt drives procrastination followed by intense bursts of activity, creating cycles of exhaustion. Confidence psychology shows that these behaviors do not improve performance but increase mental load and decision fatigue.

    Career trajectories suffer as individuals decline leadership roles, hesitate to negotiate pay, or avoid opportunities that stretch their identity. Over time, imposter syndrome signs can lead to disengagement, burnout, and attrition, particularly in high-pressure professions. Without intervention, success becomes something to survive rather than build upon.

    Therapeutic and Organizational Interventions That Work

    Addressing imposter syndrome signs requires both internal and external shifts. Cognitive-behavioral strategies help reframe attribution patterns, teaching individuals to link outcomes to skill rather than circumstance. Confidence psychology emphasizes evidence-based tracking—documenting completed tasks, outcomes, and peer feedback—to counter distorted self-assessment. These practices strengthen internal validation over time.

    Organizations also play a role by normalizing uncertainty, pairing stretch assignments with clear feedback, and highlighting learning rather than flawlessness. Mentorship programs that include honest discussions of self doubt reduce isolation and reinforce competence. When environments reward transparency over perfection, imposter syndrome signs lose their power to define identity.

    Why Imposter Syndrome Persists Even After Success

    Imposter syndrome survives because it adapts. Each achievement raises the standard for feeling “legitimate,” keeping certainty just out of reach. Confidence psychology shows that without conscious attribution correction, success simply resets the goalpost. This explains why accolades rarely bring lasting confidence to high achievers.

    Breaking the cycle requires recognizing that doubt is not proof of inadequacy but a byproduct of growth. When success is treated as data rather than danger, competence becomes something measurable, not mythical.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What are the most common imposter syndrome signs?

    Imposter syndrome signs include chronic self doubt, fear of being exposed, overpreparation, and discounting achievements. Many people also experience anxiety after success rather than satisfaction. These patterns often intensify in competitive environments. Over time, they can affect performance and well-being.

    2. Why do high achievers experience imposter syndrome more often?

    High achievers operate in environments with constant comparison and high expectations. Their success traits—perfectionism, humility, and persistence—can reinforce self doubt. Confidence psychology shows that competence does not automatically produce confidence. In some cases, it increases scrutiny instead.

    3. Is imposter syndrome a mental health disorder?

    Imposter syndrome is not a clinical diagnosis. It is a psychological pattern related to anxiety, self-esteem, and attribution bias. While not a disorder, it can contribute to stress and burnout. Addressing it early improves resilience and performance.

    4. Can imposter syndrome be overcome permanently?

    Imposter syndrome can be reduced significantly with consistent strategies. Reframing success, tracking evidence, and receiving accurate feedback weaken its influence. Confidence psychology suggests the goal is management, not elimination. Awareness prevents it from controlling decisions.



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  • Helping Employees Navigate High Deductibles With Smarter Prescription Options

    Helping Employees Navigate High Deductibles With Smarter Prescription Options

    High-deductible healthcare plans have become a common benefits option, especially among smaller businesses, because they help reduce monthly premium costs for the employer. However, these plans often shift more financial responsibility onto employees, leading to significantly higher out-of-pocket expenses for prescriptions and other medical care. As a result, rising healthcare costs are placing increasing strain on household budgets.

    As deductibles increase alongside prescription medication costs, the associated financial challenges can significantly strain employees’ budgets. For employers, taking steps to ease these burdens is more than a gesture of goodwill — it’s a business strategy. Supporting employees with tools and benefits that make healthcare more affordable can improve retention, boost productivity and position the organization as an employer of choice in a competitive market. Companies strengthen workforce well-being and long-term business performance by providing employees with the resources to access and afford the care they need.

    As Matthew Herfield, co-founder and CEO of BuzzRx, a free prescription savings platform, explained during a recent conversation, employers can help their employees navigate high deductibles in various ways.

    Encourage the Use of Generic Drugs

    When it comes to prescriptions, Herfield advises that one of the most immediately impactful actions employers can take is to encourage the use of generic drugs. “Generic drugs cost an average of 80 to 85% less than the brand-name equivalent,” he explains.

    “The FDA still requires that generics have the same active ingredient, safety and effectiveness as the brand-name medication. When generics aren’t available, there are often biosimilar drugs that treat the same condition, but with a different active ingredient and at a much lower cost than the most expensive and well-known brands.”

    While generic alternatives aren’t available for every brand-name drug, employers can work with their pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) to create a formulary that prioritizes generics. Plans could also use step therapy, which requires the use of the generic drug before switching to a more expensive brand-name version.

    Utilize Prescription Discount Programs

    Herfield also notes that prescription discount programs, such as those offered by BuzzRx, can further reduce prescription drug costs for employees. “Our prescription discount program is completely free, and can be used by employees to fill gaps in insurance coverage and provide additional cost savings,” he explains.

    “Depending on the medication, the negotiated discount rate that your employees would pay at the pharmacy with BuzzRx could be less than what they would pay with their insurance copayment or coinsurance. This is especially true of high-deductible plans, which can have higher out-of-pocket costs for higher-tiered medications. By providing a free and easy-to-use prescription discount card, employees are given another helpful opportunity to save on their healthcare costs.”

    According to Herfield, BuzzRx users can save up to 80% off the retail price of prescription medications when they present their card at one of over 60,000 participating pharmacies nationwide. Using either insurance or the discount card ensures that employees can always get the best available price.

    Encourage HSA Contributions

    Employees in high-deductible plans often have another resource available: health savings accounts (HSAs). As Herfield explains, these accounts can be a valuable way to save on medical expenses.

    “With an HSA, the money you contribute to the savings account isn’t taxed, nor is the interest it earns while in the account. As long as you use it for a qualified medical expense, which includes prescription drugs, you won’t pay any taxes when funds are withdrawn,” Herfield says.

    “This essentially allows employees to keep more of their take-home pay that would get used for medical expenses, rather than having it taxed before they pay for medical care. Best of all, unused funds roll over, and employees can keep their contributions even if they change jobs.”

    Employers who offer HSA-eligible high-deductible health plans should offer resources to help their employees set up an HSA for their out-of-pocket expenses. Many employers allow for direct contributions through payroll deduction to simplify the process, and some even offer matching contributions.

    Incentivize Employee Wellness

    Finally, Herfield recommends that employers incentivize a variety of employee wellness initiatives. “Giving access to different wellness programs, from gym memberships and weight management support to mental health counseling and stress management, can go a long way in improving employee physical, mental and emotional health,” he explains.

    “A proactive approach to employee wellness not only helps individuals better manage chronic conditions and reduce their risk of illness or injury, but also lowers healthcare costs while driving higher productivity, engagement and lower absenteeism in the workplace.”

    In addition to programs designed to directly influence employee health, Herfield also recommends that employers offer educational resources to help employees better manage costs within their healthcare plan. For example, knowing when to visit urgent care rather than the ER or understanding the value of generic prescription drugs can have a big impact on employees with high-deductible plans.

    Employers can tailor their programs to improve financial, physical and mental health by taking a holistic approach that focuses on maximizing the benefit for their workforce.

    You Can Help Employees Manage Costs

    High medical costs are a complex issue that likely won’t be truly resolved anytime soon. However, employers can ensure better health and financial outcomes by taking steps to help employees navigate high deductibles, particularly when it comes to prescription medications.

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  • Doctor Promotes Vasectomies With Promise to ‘Trip Out’ While High on Laughing Gas. Women Are Outraged

    Doctor Promotes Vasectomies With Promise to ‘Trip Out’ While High on Laughing Gas. Women Are Outraged

    An Idaho urologist’s viral TikTok marketing a vasectomy procedure that includes “tripping out” on pain medication while wearing virtual reality goggles has women asking why no one has made their reproductive healthcare experience more enticing.

    Dr. Austen Slade’s video, touted as “genius marketing” by men in the comments, makes having a vasectomy look fun.

    “Do you wanna have a legal excuse to trip out to some virtual reality content while high on nitrous oxide?” he asks viewers. “See me for your vasectomy and sign up for the ultimate relaxation package.”



    While praise rolled in for the innovative and patient-centered approach to a typically minor outpatient procedure, the comment section became a forum for women expressing long-standing frustration over pain management disparities in reproductive healthcare.

    Responses ranged from disbelief to anger. Dozens of women reported being offered only ibuprofen—or nothing at all—for procedures described as excruciating.

    “Damn, I passed out and threw up when I got my IUD and went back to work after,” one wrote.

    “Dang when we get IUDs we get ibuprofen and denied PTO requests 😪,” said another.

    Some women shared harrowing experiences of undergoing intrauterine device (IUD) insertions, cervical biopsies, and even abdominal surgeries with minimal or no pain relief.

    One user, @momo_vs_endo, recalled a gynecologist brushing off her pain during an IUD placement despite her crying. “She grabbed my shoulders and looked me in the eyes to say ‘You’re going to be fine,’ then walked out.”

    Another, @Introvertebrate32, described withstanding an unanesthetized cervical biopsy as she battled cancer: “No numbing, no pain management at all while I cried and almost loss consciousness due to the extreme pain.”

    “They make women endure colposcopies, uterine biopsies, and IUD placement with ZERO pain management and offer this to men for something they get completely numbed for?!” a woman said. “They wouldn’t even let my husband stay and hold my hand for my biopsy!!”

    A mother of five completely rejected the concept of cushioning the vasectomy experience, admitting: “Had I known this was an option prior to my husband getting his vasectomy I would have made sure he never found out about it.”

    But most women just wanted the same consideration. “I’m happy for them, but this made me irrationally ANGRY with what women have to go through,” one wrote, with another quipping, “PLEASE put this on my OBGYN’s FYP (for you page) not mine LMAO.”

    Dr. Slade weighed in on the tide of outrage from female patients, writing, “That just isn’t right,” in reply to one woman who noted the disparity in pain management.

    He also responded to a user who questioned why he wasn’t “liking” many comments from women. “Feels weird liking stories about being poorly treated,” Slade wrote. “I’ve let several gynecologists know about the comments I’m receiving.”

    The 11 second TikTok achieved its desired effect — the video racked up nearly one million views, got a lot of laughs, and had dozens of commenters announcing their willingness to book the procedure. It also unintentionally sparked conversation about inequity in pain management and calls for a reassessment of how healthcare systems approach procedures for women.

    As one commenter summed up: “Like. Yes. This is good. But also do this for women. Hear that OBGYNs???”

    Originally published on Latin Times

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  • Elite strategies for everyday high performers

    Elite strategies for everyday high performers


    High-performance nutrition isn’t just for elite athletes anymore. In the latest episode of the Dietitian Connection podcast, we explore how nutrition strategies once reserved for the sports arena are now fueling success for executives, entrepreneurs, and other high-performing individuals. Performance dietitian, Tony Castillo of @coach_TonyCastillo, joins us to share his unique approach in helping clients in high-pressure environments excel — not only by optimizing their physical health but by managing stress, preventing burnout, and sustaining energy and focus.

    Hosted by Kristin Houts

    Biography

    Tony Castillo’s journey began as an overweight middle schooler, leading him to explore nutrition after experiencing unsustainable weight loss through dieting. His fluctuating weight in college inspired him to understand how nutrition affects the human body. Today, Tony is passionate about teaching others how healthy lifestyle modifications can optimize performance in all areas of life. With experience at the University of Florida and the Toronto Blue Jays, he focuses on helping clients become elite performers, whether in sports or business. Tony graduated from Florida International University with a B.S. in Biology, B.A. in Chemistry, and an M.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics.Kris Mogensen, MS, RD

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • How high-performance nutrition applies beyond sports and into everyday life
    • The critical role of personalization in helping clients achieve success
    • Why listening is the most underrated skill in nutrition counselling
    • Practical strategies for supporting clients under pressure – think tight schedules, long hours and endless travel

    Additional resources

     

    The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see  here  for terms and conditions.


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  • Your Fitness Tracker, Smartwatch Bands May Contain ‘Very High Concentrations’ Of Harmful Forever Chemicals

    Your Fitness Tracker, Smartwatch Bands May Contain ‘Very High Concentrations’ Of Harmful Forever Chemicals

    Here’s some worrying news for all health enthusiasts-the very gadget you trust to track your health may be hiding a silent threat that could slowly seep through your skin and affect your well-being. Researchers are cautioning about a harboring danger in many fitness trackers and smartwatch bands.

    A recent study conducted by the research team at the University of Notre Dame evaluated 22 brands of wearable trackers and found that nine of the brands have “very high concenterations” of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly called “forever chemicals.”

    Forever chemicals are used in manufacturing to make products resistant to water, heat, and stains. They are infamous for their troubling connections to a range of health concerns. From fertility issues, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and preeclampsia, to increased cholesterol levels, weakened immune responses, and a heightened risk of serious illnesses like testicular and kidney cancer, forever chemicals can bring long-term damage to human health. In children, PFAs can affect hormones, delay development, and contribute to liver damage, thyroid disease, and asthma.

    For the study, the researchers tested the samples using particle-induced gamma-ray emission ion beam analysis and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to determine the material’s total fluorine content, as high levels of fluorine naturally indicate the presence of PFAS. The study also identified the specific types of PFAS in the products.

    “Fifteen of the 22 bands we tested had a high percentage of total fluorine concentrations, and nine contained PFHxA. The others used some other unidentified surfactant that wasn’t in our targeted analysis,” said Alyssa Wicks, lead author of the study in a news release.

    “The most remarkable thing we found in this study was the very high concentrations of just one PFAS — there were some samples above 1,000 parts per billion of PFHxA, which is much higher than most PFAS we have seen in consumer products,” said Graham Peaslee, co-author of the study.

    Wearable tech has become a constant companion for millions of Americans, with an estimated 1 in 5 sporting smartwatches or fitness trackers, according to a 2019 Pew Research study. From tracking steps to monitoring heart rates, these devices are practically glued to wrists for an average of 11 hours a day.

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  • Texas Doctor Accused of Being High During Surgeries Loses License After Testing Positive for Cocaine

    Texas Doctor Accused of Being High During Surgeries Loses License After Testing Positive for Cocaine

    A Houston urologist had his medical license revoked after testing positive for cocaine, following previous allegations of him performing surgeries under the influence.

    Dr. Nathan Robert Starke reportedly exhibited signs of impairment while consulting a patient before a prostate biopsy in August 2024. Records indicated he was absent for all but three minutes of one surgical procedure, despite being the attending physician, as reported by KTRK.

    By September, Houston Methodist had suspended him and later confirmed that he was no longer working at the hospital.

    After the Texas Medical Board to suspend his license in September, drug tests submitted in October indicated the presence of cocaine and kratom in Starke’s system. Kratom is a controversial supplement often associated with energy boosts and managing withdrawal symptoms, as reported by ABC13.



    Since earning his medical license in 2017, Starke’s legal troubles shadowed his career. Within a month of being licensed, he was arrested for driving under the influence. His record also includes a 2023 charge for assaulting a former girlfriend, leaving her with a chipped tooth and bruises.

    These incidents raised red flags about his fitness to practice, leading to mandated drug and alcohol screenings last year.

    “You are putting people’s lives in your hands,” a former patient told ABC13.

    Starke previously served as the head of the men’s health clinic, a position he held until the recent suspension. The hospital has since erased his profile. Houston Methodist’s Fannin Street location, where Starke performed surgeries, is currently listed online as “permanently closed.”

    What’s next for the doctor remains unclear, yet FOX26 reported that he could get his license back.

    Substance use was the leading cause of actions against U.S. physicians’ licenses, comprising 76.3% of cases between 2004 and 2020, a 2022 study found.

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  • High performance sports nutrition | Dietitian Connection


    Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be the Head of Nutrition for a professional cycling team? In this episode, we chat with James Moran, an experienced sports dietitian from the UK and Head of Nutrition for Uno-X Mobility Cycling Team. James shares his incredible journey from clinical dietetics to elite sports nutrition, revealing what it takes to fuel world-class endurance athletes. He dives into his role in supporting elite endurance athletes and how he navigates the unique challenges of high-performance nutrition at events like the Tour de France.

    Hosted by Brooke Delfino

    Biography

    James Moran MSc, PG Dip, is a Registered Dietitian (HCPC) and Performance Nutritionist (SENr) from Manchester, UK. James is currently Head of Nutrition with Uno-X Pro Cycling Team and a Visiting Fellow at Leeds Beckett University. Originally completing a BSc Sport and Exercise Science at Sheffield Hallam University in 2004, James went onto do further training with the University of Chester to become a state Registered Dietitian. After working clinically for over 10 years in a range of areas including type 1 diabetes, gastroenterology, surgery and intensive care, James completed an MSc Sport Nutrition at Liverpool John Moores University under Prof James Morton and Prof Graeme Close. James has worked with a variety of professional teams and individual athletes mostly specialising in endurance sports. Recently this has included providing nutrition support to Kevin Sinfield OBE on the Extra Mile and Ultra7 Challenges, Ineos Grenadiers Cycling Team, Science in Sport, British Cycling, Team GB and the English Institute of Sport at the Tour de France and Tokyo 2020 Olympics. James also provides nutritional consultancy to a range of individual athletes and clinical clients, professional sports teams, national governing bodies, university and industry clients.

     

    In this episode, we discuss:​

    • How James transitioned from clinical dietetics to elite sports nutrition
    • The key nutritional challenges in endurance athletes
    • James’ most memorable moments at the Tour de France
    • How to personalise nutrition strategies for athletes
    • Emerging trends and the role of technology in sports nutrition
      ​​

    Additional resources

    Are you craving a quick, impactful way to stay ahead in the nutrition world? Click here to learn more about Dietitian Connection’s NEW 30-minute Lunch & Learn sessions!


    The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see  here  for terms and conditions.


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  • Is Creatine Safe and Efficient for High Homocysteine? 

    Is Creatine Safe and Efficient for High Homocysteine? 

    Those on a healthy plant-based diet who have elevated homocysteine levels despite taking sufficient vitamin B12 may want to consider taking a gram a day of contaminant-free creatine.

    The average blood levels of homocysteine in men are about 1.5 points higher than in women, which may be one of the reasons men tend to be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Women don’t need to make as much creatine as men since they tend to have less muscle mass. That may help explain “the ‘gender gap’ in homocysteine levels.” If you remember from my previous video and as seen below and at 0:36 in The Efficacy and Safety of Creatine for High Homocysteine, in the process of making creatine, our body produces homocysteine as a by-product. So, for people with stubbornly high homocysteine levels that don’t respond sufficiently to B vitamins, “creatine supplementation may represent a practical strategy for decreasing plasma homocysteine levels”—that is, lowering the level of homocysteine into the normal range. 

    It seemed to work in rats. What about humans? Well, it worked in one study, but it didn’t seem to work in another. It didn’t work in yet another either. And, in another study, homocysteine levels were even driven up. So, this suggestion that taking creatine supplements would lower homocysteine was called into question. 

    However, all those studies were done with non-vegetarians, so they were already effectively supplementing with creatine every day in the form of muscle meat. In that way, researchers were testing higher versus lower supplementation. Those eating strictly plant-based make all their creatine from scratch, so they may be more sensitive to an added creatine source. There weren’t any studies on creatine supplementation in vegans to lower homocysteine until now. 

    Researchers took vegans who were not supplementing their diets with vitamin B12, so some of their homocysteine levels were through the roof. A few were as high as 50 when the ideal is more like under 10, for example. After taking some creatine for a few weeks, all of their homocysteine levels normalized. You can see the before and after in the graph below and at 2:04 in my video. 

    Now, they didn’t normalize, as that would have been a level under 10, but that’s presumably because they weren’t taking any B12. Give vegetarians and vegans vitamin B12 supplements, either dosing daily or once a week, and their levels normalize in a matter of months, as you can see below and at 2:20 in my video. However, the fact that you could bring down homocysteine levels with creatine alone, even without any B12, suggests—to me at least—that if your homocysteine is elevated (above 10) on a plant-based diet despite taking B12 supplements and eating greens and beans to get enough folate, it might be worth experimenting with supplementing with a gram of creatine a day for a few weeks to see if your homocysteine comes down. 

    Why just a single gram? That’s approximately how much non-vegetarians do not have to make themselves; it’s the amount that erased vegetarian discrepancies in blood and muscle, as you can see in the graph below and at 3:01 in my video, and how much has been shown to be safe in the longer term. 

    How safe is it? We can take a bit of comfort in the fact that it’s “one of the world’s best-selling dietary supplements,” with literally billions of servings taken, and the only consistently reported side effect has been weight gain, presumed to be from water retention. The only serious side effects appear to be among those with pre-existing kidney diseases taking whopping doses closer to 20 grams a day. A concern was raised that creatine could potentially form a carcinogen known as N-nitrososarcosine when it hit the acid bath of the stomach, but, when it actually put to the test, researchers found this does not appear to be a problem. 

    Bottom line: Doses of supplemental creatine up to 3 grams a day are “unlikely to pose any risk,” provided “high purity creatine” is used. However, as we all know, dietary supplements in the United States “are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration and may contain contaminants or variable quantities of the desired supplement” and may not even contain what’s on the label. We’re talking about “contaminants…that may be generated during the industrial production.” When researchers looked at 33 samples of creatine supplements made in the United States and Europe, they found that they all actually contained creatine, which is nice, but about half exceeded the maximum level recommended by food safety authorities for at least one contaminant. The researchers recommend that “consumers give their preference to products obtained by producers that ensure the highest quality control and certify the maximum amount of contaminants present in their products.” Easier said than done.

    Because of the potential risks, I don’t think people should take creatine supplements willy-nilly, but the potential benefits may exceed the potential risks if, again, you’re on a healthy plant-based diet and taking B12, and your homocysteine levels are still not under 10. In that case, I would suggest giving a gram a day of creatine a trying to see if it brings it down.

    The reason I did this whole video series goes back to “Risks of Ischaemic Heart Disease and Stroke in Meat Eaters, Fish Eaters, and Vegetarians Over 18 Years of Follow-Up: Results from the Prospective EPIC-Oxford Study,” which found that, although the overall cardiovascular risk is lower in vegetarians and vegans combined, they appeared to be at slightly higher stroke risk, as you can see in the graph below and at 5:06 in my video. 

    I went through a list of potential causes, as you can see at 5:11 and below, and arrived at elevated homocysteine. What’s the solution? A regular, reliable source of vitamin B12. The cheapest, easiest method that I personally use is one 2,500 mcg chewable tablet of cyanocobalamin, the most stable source of B12, once a week. (In fact, you can just use 2,000 mcg once a week.) And, again, a backup plan for those doing that but still having elevated homocysteine is an empirical trial of a single gram a day of creatine supplementation, which was shown to improve at least capillary blood flow in those who started out with high homocysteine levels. 

    In sum, plant-based diets appear to “markedly reduce risk” for multiple leading killer diseases—heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and many common types of cancer—but “an increased risk for stroke may represent an ‘Achilles heel.’ Nonetheless, vegans have the potential to achieve a truly exceptional ‘healthspan’ if they face this problem forthrightly by restricting salt intake and taking other practical measures that promote cerebrovascular [brain artery] health…Nonetheless, these considerations do not justify nutritional nihilism. On balance, low-fat vegan diets offer such versatile protection for long-term health that they remain highly recommendable. Most likely, the optimal strategy is to adopt such a [plant-based] diet, along with additional measures—appropriate food choices, exercising training, judicious supplementation [of vitamin B12]—that will mitigate the associated stroke risk.” And try not to huff whipped cream charging canister gas. Leave the “whippets” alone.

    This concludes my series on stroke risk. If you missed any of the other videos, see the related posts below.

    I’m assuming that nearly everyone taking their B12 will have normal homocysteine levels, so these last two videos are just for the rare person who doesn’t. However, those on a healthy plant-based diet with elevated homocysteine levels despite taking sufficient vitamin B12 should consider taking a gram a day of contaminant-free creatine, which should be about a quarter teaspoon.

    Where do you get contaminant-free creatine? Since regulations are so lax, you can’t rely on supplement manufacturers no matter what they say, so I would recommend going directly to the chemical suppliers that sell it to laboratories and guarantee a certain purity. Here are some examples (in alphabetical order) of some of the largest companies where you can get unadulterated creatine: Alfa Aesar, Fisher Scientific, Sigma-Aldrich, and TCI America.



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