Weight-loss pills draw people back to the doctor

 Weight-loss pills draw People back to the doctor

GLP-1 prescriptions connected to rise in diagnoses for sleep apnea, kind 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, data display

Some folks who had prevented docs because of stigma of weight problems are getting access to long-behind schedule preventative care

Other sufferers are looking for weight-loss tablets to come to be eligible for fertility treatment and different procedures

Dec 16 (Reuters) - Powerful weight loss capsules are increasing use of U.S. Health care as patients starting prescriptions are diagnosed with weight problems-related conditions or take the medicine to come to be eligible for different services, health data and discussions with medical doctors show.

An exceptional evaluation of hundreds of heaps of electronic patient records by health data company Truveta observed slight, but measurable, increases in first-time diagnoses of sleep apnea, cardiovascular sickness, and sort 2 diabetes within 15 days of an initial prescription for a GLP-1 weight reduction drug among 2020 and 2024.

In addition to weight problems-related situations, a few patients are being prescribed the medicine to shed pounds and grow to be eligible for offerings, which include organ transplants, fertility treatments or knee replacements, in line with interviews with seven doctors and 5 other fitness experts.

"This is a population that formerly felt stigmatized via fitness care companies and often did not return. But now that they're virtually seeing themselves get healthier, asking clinicians questions and attractive more, I do assume we are seeing new sufferers," said Dr. Rekha Kumar, a New York endocrinologist and weight problems remedy professional.

Novo Nordisk's (NOVOb.CO), opens new tab Wegovy and Ozempic and Eli Lilly's (LLY.N), opens new tab Zepbound and Mounjaro have been proven to cause average weight reduction of at least 15%.

Andrew Friedson, director of fitness economics at the Milken Institute and 3 different specialists said the impact of the medication on standard healthcare use isn't yet clear. The new diagnoses ought to suggest higher preliminary spending, but early detection could store fees down the road, he stated.

Dr. Courtney Younglove, an obesity medicinal drug expert and founder of Heartland Weight Loss hospital in Overland Park, Kansas, stated she has referred obesity patients for long-not on time pap smears and other habitual care, such as colonoscopies. Many obese patients avoid medical doctors and recurring assessments for years due to the stigma and bias they frequently encounter, she stated. €�A lot of human beings with obesity don't do quite a few preventive fitness protection."

'THE COURAGE TO ASK'

Phil, a forty three-12 months-antique Chicago technology govt who asked for his complete call to be withheld for privacy reasons, normally averted medical doctors earlier than receiving a GLP-1 prescription from a telehealth provider in early 2023.

He stated he told his regular physician about the drugs months later, after he had lost greater than 30 lbs, and become taken aback by her supportive response. He decided then to recommend greater for himself and ask for assist with different conditions, along with dependancy and mental health.

"It gave me the braveness to ask," he said.

The Truveta evaluation, opens new tab observed that for every 1,000 sufferers with a first-time GLP-1 prescription, 42 had been recognized with kind 2 diabetes within 15 days in 2024, up from 32 in 2020. Over the same length, the wide variety of sleep apnea diagnoses consistent with 1,000 sufferers rose to eleven from eight and the quantity of cardiovascular sickness diagnoses multiplied to 15 from thirteen.

The most obese patients have been two times as probably as those who have been less overweight to receive a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, and 3 instances as likely to be diagnosed with sleep apnea, the Truveta information showed.

The evaluation turned into based totally on 33,630 first-time GLP-1 prescriptions for overweight or obese sufferers in 2020 and 224,496 in the first 10 months of 2024.

Lilly declined to without delay comment on the records, saying in an emailed statement "it's miles important that adults dwelling with obesity get hold of appropriate analysis and get entry to to evidence-based totally care."

Novo Nordisk also declined to comment without delay, noting its goal "to deal with unmet wishes for a wider range of patients."

QUALIFYING FOR SURGERIES

ResMed (RMD.N), opens new tab, which sells sleep apnea devices, had revenue boom of eleven% for its monetary yr finishing in June - a trend the company attributed in element to the GLP-1 pills.

The medications are "bringing humans into number one care like by no means before," ResMed CEO Michael Farrell said on the organisation's current shareholder meeting.

A Truveta analysis earlier this 12 months determined that due to the fact 2020 humans were being commenced on GLP-1s in spite of having less intense markers of ailment, consisting of BMI, which advised the medication are becoming extra extensively used as preventative gear., opens new tab

In addition to treatment of factors like sleep apnea, the weightloss capsules may want to cause more joint replacements, said Sara Mallatt, director of healthcare studies at marketplace analysis company AlphaSense.

"As human beings's BMIs come down, they'll be eligible for surgeries they would not in any other case," she said. "No one is announcing this is taking place in a meaningful manner proper now, however we think it's going to."

University of Chicago Medicine last yr launched a weightloss hospital aimed toward helping prospective organ transplant patients shed pounds to qualify for surgical treatment, with the GLP-1 drugs playing a key function.

"Before that they had an area to ship these sufferers, that is our clinic, the scheduler could simply say, 'hey, what's your weight, what is your peak, what is your BMI,' and if they did not suit their standards, they might just tell them to shed pounds on their own," said Anesia Reticker, the center's scientific pharmacist expert.

Retired Indiana steelworker Bensabio Guajardo, sixty eight, became prescribed Ozempic on the hospital in 2023 whilst he was deemed too obese for a double lung transplant had to maintain him alive after pulmonary fibrosis made breathing increasingly tough.

"It helped me lots. It took my cravings away," Guajardo said. After losing round ninety kilos and preventing the drug ahead of a a hit surgical operation in May, his health practitioner positioned him back on it to manipulate excessive blood sugar.

Reticker stated the program has acquired about one hundred referrals over the last yr from transplant facilities within the Chicago vicinity.

Unprecedented Unrest: South Korea President Declares Emergency Martial Law, Sending Shockwaves Across the Nation

In a historical moment that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of South Korea’s dynamic political landscape, President [Name of President] made the unprecedented decision to declare emergency martial law on [date of declaration]. This drastic measure, borne out of escalating social, political, and economic turmoil, has sent shockwaves throughout the country, raising significant concerns about civil liberties, governance, and national stability.

**The Context of the Declaration**

In the weeks leading up to the declaration, South Korea found itself embroiled in widespread protests and civil unrest. The demonstrations, initially sparked by [specific event or issue, e.g., economic disparities, government corruption, environmental concerns], quickly grew into a broader movement challenging the government’s policies and decisions. Citizens across the nation took to the streets, expressing their frustrations over [specific grievances].

The government’s response to these demonstrations included both attempts at dialogue and subsequent crackdowns on dissent. However, as protests intensified, particularly in urban centers such as Seoul and Busan, tensions escalated, drawing attention from both national and international observers. The president's decision to declare martial law was viewed as a rapid and severe escalation, designed to restore order amidst a backdrop of conflict between the government and its citizenry.

**Understanding Martial Law**

Martial law, a measure often employed in times of crisis, involves the imposition of military authority over civilian governance. It typically grants the military the power to enforce laws, maintain order, and, in some cases, suspend civil liberties. The declaration of martial law in South Korea has ignited intense discussions regarding its implications for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in a country that has long prided itself on its democratic process since the fall of authoritarian rule in the late 20th century.

Historically, martial law has been used in various nations as a tool for combating unrest or perceived threats to national security. However, it is essential to recognize the complexities involved. While proponents may argue that such measures are necessary to restore peace and stability, critics caution that the suspension of civil rights and freedoms can lead to authoritarian governance, diminishing faith in democratic institutions.

**Political Repercussions**

The declaration of emergency martial law has led to immediate and far-reaching consequences for the political landscape in South Korea. Political analysts and commentators express concern over the potential erosion of democratic institutions that have been painstakingly rebuilt over the last several decades. The executive branch's assumption of expanded powers has raised alarms among civil rights advocates, who worry about the potential for abuse and the stifling of dissent.

In Parliament, opposition leaders have voiced their strong condemnation of the martial law declaration. They argue that the government should prioritize dialogue and constructive solutions rather than resorting to coercive measures that only serve to deepen societal divisions. The growing tension between the administration and its critics highlights a profound schism in the country’s political fabric. Questions loom about the future of this administration, especially as public sentiment appears increasingly restless.

**Public Sentiment and Social Implications**

The people's reaction to the imposition of martial law has been complex and multifaceted. While segments of the population rally in support of the government's decision, believing that martial law is essential for restoring order, there exists a sizable contingent of citizens who view it as a grave threat to their rights and freedoms. The streets continue to be filled with demonstrators, many now vocalizing their opposition to the very measures intended to curb the unrest.

Public sentiment is further complicated by the social media landscape, where information—both reliable and misleading—spreads rapidly. Activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens alike are navigating a polarized atmosphere where experiences and narratives differ wildly based on individual perspectives and political affiliations. The clash between the government narrative and grassroots movements underscores a community grappling with a pivot towards authoritarianism versus a commitment to democratic principles.

**International Reactions and Implications**

Beyond South Korea’s borders, the implications of the martial law declaration have reverberated across the globe, drawing expressions of concern from international leaders and organizations. Nations that have long upheld democratic values have urged the South Korean government to exercise restraint, protect civil liberties, and pursue avenues for dialogue with dissenting voices. Global human rights organizations have also voiced their apprehensions, monitoring the developments closely and calling for an immediate end to practices that violate human rights.

The situation in South Korea could reshape its international relations, impacting trade partnerships and foreign policy decisions. South Korea's role in the Asia-Pacific region, as a robust democracy, has been a significant asset in its diplomatic endeavors. The internal strife and the resulting measures taken by the government could result in a reevaluation of how foreign nations engage with Seoul, particularly if perceptions of democratic backsliding persist.

**Conclusion: Navigating Uncertain Waters**

As South Korea finds itself navigating through these uncharted waters, the possibility of prolonged unrest presents a fundamental challenge to a nation known for its resilience and vibrant democratic traditions. The emergency martial law declared by President [Name of President] represents not just a tactical response to immediate threats but a critical inflection point that could redefine South Korea’s political and social fabric for years to come.

In the coming days, as the government seeks to stabilize the situation, the question remains: how will South Korea emerge from this crisis? The nation stands at a crossroads, with the potential to affirm its democratic institutions as a bastion of civil rights or risk the encroachment of authoritarian governance. It is clear that the stakes are high, and the eyes of the world remain fixed firmly on South Korea as it grapples with its future.

Kendrick Lamar and SZA

 Kendrick Lamar and SZA are set to embark on their Grand National Tour in 2025, marking a significant return to the stage after their 2018 collaboration. The tour will cover multiple major cities across North America, kicking off in April and concluding in June. Tickets will be available for general sale starting December 6, 2024, with an exclusive pre-sale for Cash App card users commencing on December 4.

Key Points

• Kendrick Lamar and SZA have announced their upcoming 2025 Grand National Tour across North America.
• The tour will begin in April and run through June, covering 16 major cities.
• This tour follows their previous collaboration during the 2018 Top Dawg Entertainment Championship Tour.
• Tickets for the tour will go on sale on December 6, with a pre-sale for Cash App card users starting on December 4.
• Lamar and SZA recently collaborated on tracks "Luther" and "Gloria" from Lamar's album GNX, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
• "Luther" achieved significant success by debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
• All featured products related to the tour are selected by Pitchfork editors, which may yield affiliate commission on retail links.

Pro-Government Airstrikes Damage Hospitals in Rebel-Held Syrian City

In the complex tapestry of the Syrian conflict, recent developments have drawn significant concern from humanitarian organizations and international observers alike. Pro-government airstrikes targeting rebel-held areas have resulted in the damaging of critical medical facilities, exacerbating an already dire situation for civilians. The implications of these actions extend beyond immediate physical destruction; they also pose serious ethical questions regarding the conduct of warfare in populated areas.

Reports from the front lines indicate that airstrikes carried out by Syrian government forces have frequently struck medical facilities in regions grappling with rebel control. In one notable instance, the bombardment of hospitals in a particular city has illuminated the brutal reality faced by those living in areas held by opposition factions. The resulting damage not only jeopardizes the lives of countless patients and healthcare workers but also severely limits the capacity of these hospitals to provide essential medical care in a country where such services were already strained before the onset of conflict.

International humanitarian law clearly stipulates the protection of medical facilities during armed conflicts. The Geneva Conventions emphasize the need to respect and protect hospitals and medical personnel, regardless of the surrounding military situation. The continued attacks on these vital establishments raise grave concerns about accountability and the adherence to these established legal norms. Humanitarian organizations have demanded immediate investigations and accountability for these violations, urging the international community to take a stance against such actions that directly harm innocent civilians.

Moreover, the humanitarian implications of such airstrikes are profound. Hospitals serve as lifelines for wounded combatants and civilians alike, offering critical emergency care amid a relentless barrage of violence. The destruction of these facilities forces patients to seek medical assistance farther away, often leading to delays that can result in unnecessary suffering or loss of life. The psychological toll on medical staff, who are often working under duress in these environments, cannot be understated, as they grapple with the impossibility of providing care in the face of growing threats.

The international response to these events has been varied, with some nations vocally condemning the airstrikes while others remain silent, more preoccupied with their strategic interests within the region. Such disparities in response reflect the multifaceted nature of the Syrian conflict, where geopolitical factors often overshadow humanitarian imperatives. This inconsistency further complicates the situation for civilians caught in the crossfire, who are left to navigate a landscape fraught with danger, uncertainty, and scarcity of resources.

As the conflict enters its next phase, the need for a concerted and robust international response becomes increasingly urgent. While calls for ceasefires and diplomatic interventions persist, there must also be a resolve to hold accountable those who perpetrate war crimes, particularly against vulnerable populations. The situation in the rebel-held Syrian city serves as a haunting reminder of the complexities of modern warfare and the essential need for upholding the principles of humanity, even amid the chaos of conflict.

In conclusion, the damaging of hospitals by pro-government airstrikes in rebel-held areas highlights a troubling reality of the Syrian conflict. As the international community watches, the imperative to protect medical facilities and civilian lives must transcend political considerations, fostering a collective effort to return to dialogues of peace and stability in a nation that has suffered too long. It is vital that the plight of the Syrian people not be forgotten, and that their right to medical care, regardless of their locality, is staunchly upheld.