A new threat to the health and safety of children has recently begun to take center stage: diseases that were once thought eradicated have reemerged into public consciousness.  These diseases have been aided and abetted by the irresponsible and dangerous behavior of people opposed to vaccines, otherwise known as anti-vaxxers.

It has been nearly four weeks since Beverly Hills, CA, became the first US jurisdiction to categorically ban e-cigarette products, along with most other tobacco products. 

In the midst of the current measles outbreak in the United States, a great deal of controversy has arisen regarding the role of “anti-vaxxers” in perpetuating the spread of contagious diseases.

The human microbiome is the subject of a burgeoning field of research.  The effect of gut microflora, and especially bacteria, has in the last few years been linked to anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases, and numerous other disorders.

Genetic testing is a major area of growth in the healthcare industry recently, with several companies posting large returns for investors and a number of people receiving the services from molecular diagnostics companies. 

Should a biotech giant holding a valuable patent be forced to give it up if doing so would serve the public good? 

You've most likely taken an antibiotic at least once in your lifetime. From treatments for painful strep throat or ear infections as a child, to burning urinary tract infections or itchy skin infections, antibiotics are one of the most highly utilized and important medication classes we have.  Soon, your doctor may have a new weapon in their arsenal to diagnose and target treatment:  scientists at American University have developed a rapid, highly sensitive genetic test to determine whether bacteria carry a gene that causes resistance to two common antibiotics. Their research, published in BMC Infectious Diseases, demonstrated that the new test works as accurately as culture-based methods but gives results in minutes, not hours or days.

A new drug developed by Johnson & Johnson named Esketamine may become the first new treatment in years for depression.  An expert panel composed of psychiatrists and consumer representatives was nearly unanimous in recommending that the FDA approve a nasal spray that delivers the active ingredient ketamine.