JAMA Clinical Reviews

In this insightful discussion, G. Caleb Alexander, a practicing internist and epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins, dives into the complex regulation of mifepristone, the widely used abortion drug. He sheds light on FDA approval standards, the unique challenges posed by political scrutiny, and key regulatory moments since its approval. Alexander highlights the importance of transparency through Freedom of Information Act requests and addresses ongoing legal battles impacting access. His nuanced analysis reveals the intersection of science and policy in reproductive health.

Haeseong Park is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an expert in gastrointestinal oncology. In this discussion, he highlights the alarming rise of gastric cancer incidence among younger individuals and its status as a leading cause of cancer deaths globally. Park delves into the significant role of Helicobacter pylori, along with other modifiable risk factors like smoking and obesity. He also contrasts screening methods between the U.S. and countries with national programs, emphasizing the need for improved prevention strategies and tailored treatment approaches.

Discover the latest in obesity treatments with insights on incretin-based medications, showcasing impressive weight loss stats. Gastrointestinal side effects are discussed alongside dietary tips to enhance medication adherence. Hypothyroidism's risk factors and prevalence are explored, emphasizing tailored levothyroxine dosing. Dive into diabetes care as experts dissect evolving treatment options and screening guidelines for better outcomes. This informative discussion promises to keep healthcare professionals updated and engaged.

Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, a physician-scientist and Editor-in-Chief of JAMA, joins Jennifer Abbasi to unveil the journal's Research of the Year. They explore significant topics such as groundbreaking studies on hypertension and heart failure, the impact of lifestyle interventions on cognitive decline, and the benefits of real-world evidence in clinical trials. Kirsten also highlights a crucial shingles vaccine study linked to dementia and discusses the implications of AI in healthcare research. Their insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the year's most impactful findings.

Francesca Celletti, a Senior Advisor at WHO focusing on obesity, and Ezekiel Emanuel, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dive into the WHO's new guidelines on GLP-1 therapies for obesity treatment. They discuss crucial recommendations, the importance of ongoing data, and the gap in long-term understanding. Concerns about side effects, lifestyle interventions, and equitable access are raised. Both emphasize that while medications are essential, solving obesity requires systemic changes and collaboration.

Dr. Lara Dunn, a head and neck medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, shares her expertise on head and neck cancer, the seventh most common cancer worldwide. She explores the connection between tobacco, alcohol, and HPV as risk factors. The conversation highlights screening challenges for HPV-associated cancers and the importance of HPV status in prognosis. Dunn also discusses treatment strategies tailored by stage and emphasizes the need for supportive care before and after treatment.

Neelima Tummala, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at NYU Langone Health, discusses the alarming impact of climate change on allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. She highlights how rising temperatures and CO2 levels are extending allergy seasons and increasing pollen production. Tummala shares practical strategies for patients, such as using purifiers and optimizing medication timing to align with pollen shifts. She emphasizes the importance of education and advocacy for public health in the face of climate challenges.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Kevin Hill, an addiction specialist and Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, dives into the therapeutic applications of cannabis and cannabinoids. He highlights the critical balance clinicians must find between the benefits and risks of use. Hill shares data on the prevalence of medical cannabis, explains FDA-approved formulations, and addresses acute and chronic risks associated with THC. He also discusses strategies for harm reduction and voices concerns about adolescent use impacting cognitive health.

Dr. Michelle Mauermann, a professor of neurology and chair at the Mayo Clinic, shares insights on peripheral neuropathy, a condition affecting 1% of adults globally. She discusses its common causes like diabetes and B12 deficiency, the mechanisms behind its debilitating symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis through EMG testing. Treatment strategies range from conservative measures to tailored medications like gabapentinoids. Mauermann also highlights the role of physical therapy in managing symptoms and preventing falls.

Norbert Stefan, MD, a leading endocrinologist and MASLD researcher, discusses metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. He reveals alarming global prevalence rates, especially in obesity and diabetes. Geographic variations in MASLD highlight rising incidences in Asia and harsher impacts in Eastern Europe. Stefan explains the role of diet, alcohol, and exercise in managing MASLD and outlines the diagnosis process through ultrasound and advanced imaging. He also covers innovative treatments, including medication and lifestyle changes to combat this growing health concern.