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Today, we look at why measles outbreaks and mental health screenings matter—and what biotech can do for patients on both fronts. (531 words, 2 minutes, 39 seconds) |
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Why measles outbreaks are a ‘canary in the coal mine’ |
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Outbreaks of measles—a preventable disease—are a “canary in the coal mine” indicating lower vaccination rates, explained the head of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) in an interview with Bio.News.
The numbers: There were 139 confirmed measles cases in the United States this year, with 54% requiring hospitalization and 45% among children under 5.
Why it matters: Measles was declared eliminated from the U.S. in 2000.
“Low vaccination rates have left too many people—children and adults—in danger,” with highly contagious measles among the first preventable diseases to spread, said NFID President Patricia Stinchfield, RN, MS, CPNP. “What other diseases that we’ve been able to control are going to reemerge?”
The business case: According to one study, based on medical care needed and workdays lost to measles, “the median cost per case was $32,805.” Vaccination costs “a penny on the dollar” and returns are enormous, explains Stinchfield.
The personal case: Stinchfield recalled parents who learned the hard way about risks of neglecting vaccination. “I just wish I could express how much regret these parents feel,” she said.
BIO’s view: “The rise of measles is of great concern—a very safe and effective vaccine is available to prevent the disease and greatly decrease the burden on children, parents, schools, and the entire healthcare ecosystem,” says Phyllis Arthur, SVP, Infectious Diseases & Emerging Science Policy at BIO.
Read more in Bio.News. |
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Mental Health Awareness Month: New screenings highlight depth of challenge |
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New figures from online mental health screenings taken by more than 6.5 million people worldwide illustrate a challenge that demands our attention.
The key finding: Of the 2 million U.S respondents taking Mental Health America (MHA) anonymous screenings in 2023, 79% identified moderate to severe symptoms of a mental health condition, MHA reported May 1. Notably, screenings showed a high rate of suicide ideation among young people.
The trends: Rates of anxiety and risk for psychosis remain higher since the pandemic, and ADHD topped depression as the most-taken screening this year. Stressors cited by respondents include body image (58%), relationships (49%), and school/work (47%).
Why it matters: Detailed understanding of mental health challenges makes it clear we must care for ourselves and those around us. The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month in May, “Where to Start,” focuses on finding care.
Biopharma delivers solutions. Prescription drugs can treat mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and ADHD. Meanwhile, psychedelics show promise against several conditions, explains a recent episode of the I am BIO Podcast.
The impact of policy: Practices potentially limiting patient access to medicine—like prior authorization requirements, restrictive formularies, and fail-first requirements—are concerns of MHA, and can be exacerbated by pharmacy benefit managers.
What they’re saying: “Failure by pharmacy benefits managers to pass along manufacturer rebates to beneficiaries at the point of sale, which currently prevents people from benefiting from reduced drug prices negotiated by manufacturers and health plans,” is a key policy challenge, MHA says. |
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