October 13, 2021
Public Health/Prevention
  • The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued new guidance that people over the age of 60 should no longer consider taking a daily low-dose or baby aspirin to prevent a first heart attack or stroke. The announcement deviates from the USPSTF’s 2016 guidance that recommended aspirin therapy in certain men and women to lower cardiovascular risk. But more recent evidence suggests it also could cause including bleeding, which cancels the benefits of preventing heart disease. People ages 40 to 59 who are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease should decide with their clinician whether to start taking aspirin. (Draft recommendation here; Articles here, here, here, and here)
  • The FDA authorized the legal marketing of an electronic cigarette for the first time, saying the product from RJ Reynolds could help addicted adult smokers. According to the agency, RJ Reynolds’ efillable Vuse Solo closed device and tobacco-flavored e-liquid pods could benefit addicted adult smokers who switch by reducing their exposure to harmful chemicals. The decision signals that the agency believes that the help certain vaping devices offer smokers to quit traditional cigarettes is more significant than the risks of ensnaring underage teens. (Articles here, here, and here)