Today’s health news roundup looks at Congress’ first-ever hearing focused on menopause care, the health effects of shifting weather patterns and key updates involving vaccine research, flu and COVID-19 monitoring.
CLEVELAND — Capitol Hill lawmakers this week convened Congress’ first hearing specifically centered on menopause care. During the session, they called on the Government Accountability Office to examine how federal agencies invest in and provide support for menopause research and treatment.
The hearing comes after the Food and Drug Administration removed a long-standing warning from certain hormone therapy treatments. Experts, however, told lawmakers that much more research is needed to ensure menopause care reaches a wider and more diverse group of patients.
Menopause symptoms generally emerge between ages 45 and 60 — years that encompass roughly 30% of today’s workforce. According to the RAND Corporation, the symptoms carry an estimated $5.4 billion annual cost to the U.S. economy, in large part because some women reduce their work hours or leave their jobs when symptoms become more severe.
NIH plans new study on vaccine injury claims
Meanwhile, the National Institutes of Health is planning a new study involving people who believe they were harmed by a vaccine, including recipients of COVID-19 vaccines.
The research could launch as soon as October at the NIH campus in Maryland. Investigators expect to monitor symptoms including fatigue, neurological issues and inflammation, which some people describe collectively as post-vaccination syndrome.
NIH officials say the study is intended to improve understanding of rare vaccine-related reactions. While some scientists have welcomed the research, they also say it is important that the work remain grounded in scientific evidence.
CDC combines flu and COVID-19 teams
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is also reorganizing its public health operations, combining its flu and COVID-19 teams into one division effective this month.
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That consolidated team will monitor disease activity and help state and local health departments respond to outbreaks. CDC leadership says the restructuring will make surveillance more efficient and will not result in staffing reductions.
For most Americans, the change is not expected to affect access to flu or COVID-19 care. Health officials continue to urge people to get their annual flu vaccine during the current season.
How changing weather affects your health
Shifting weather does more than disrupt your plans — it can stress your body.
Cold, dry air cracks mucus membranes and opens the door to viruses, while sudden pressure changes can trigger joint pain and migraines. High humidity, meanwhile, fuels mold and allergens.
Cleveland Clinic experts recommend staying hydrated, keeping over-the-counter medications on hand and eating an anti-inflammatory diet full of fruits and vegetables to fight back. Good sleep helps, too.
You can’t control the weather, but preparing ahead can make every season change easier.