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The FDA's denial of over a million applications for flavored e-liquids is under scrutiny as the Supreme Court hears an appeal. This case follows a significant decline in youth vaping rates, attributed to the FDA's crackdown on flavored products. The outcome could reshape vaping regulations under the incoming Trump administration.
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Starting December 16, raw milk from dairy farms in six states must be tested for the H5N1 bird flu virus. This federal order aims to control the virus's spread, which has infected over 700 herds across 15 states since its detection in March. The risk to human health remains low, according to officials.
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The trial of Bovaer, a feed additive aimed at reducing methane emissions from dairy cows, has ignited significant backlash in the UK and Australia. Consumers are threatening boycotts of major supermarkets, citing safety concerns despite assurances from producers about its efficacy and safety. The debate highlights broader issues in sustainable farming practices.
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Recent studies indicate a slight decline in obesity rates in the U.S., attributed to the rising use of GLP-1 medications like Zepbound and Wegovy. Eli Lilly's Zepbound has shown superior weight loss results compared to Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, potentially reshaping the obesity treatment landscape.
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Time magazine has named Donald Trump its 'Person of the Year' for 2024, marking the second time he has received this honor. The announcement follows his recent presidential election victory, where he defeated Kamala Harris. Trump celebrated the recognition by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
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In a recent interview, President-elect Trump stated he does not plan to remove Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell, despite previous tensions. Trump outlined his economic agenda, including tariffs and immigration policies, while emphasizing a collaborative approach with Democrats on certain issues.
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Senator Lindsey Graham publicly disagreed with President-elect Donald Trump's assertion that members of the January 6 committee should be jailed. This statement comes amid Trump's plans to pardon January 6 insurrectionists and his ongoing criticism of the committee's investigation into the Capitol attack.
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President-elect Donald Trump has reiterated support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services, despite Kennedy's controversial views linking vaccines to rising autism rates. This has raised concerns among health experts about the potential impact on public health policy amid increasing autism diagnoses in the U.S.
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The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee recommends increasing consumption of beans, peas, and lentils while reducing red and processed meats. This shift aims to improve health outcomes amid rising chronic health conditions in the U.S. The guidelines will inform federal nutrition policies set to be released in late 2025.
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Luigi Mangione, 26, faces second-degree murder charges for the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. As evidence mounts, including a gun linked to the crime scene, Mangione's defense attorney contests extradition to New York, where he is expected to plead not guilty. The case raises questions about corporate security and mental health.
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Rwanda has successfully managed a Marburg virus outbreak, reporting no new cases since October. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo is grappling with a severe malaria outbreak and rising measles cases, with over 2,100 measles deaths reported this year. Health authorities are responding to both emergencies.
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As Robert F. Kennedy Jr. prepares for Senate confirmation as Health Secretary, backlash intensifies over a petition filed by his advisor to revoke the polio vaccine's approval. Lawmakers emphasize the importance of vaccines in preventing disease, raising alarms about Kennedy's past anti-vaccine rhetoric.
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As Donald Trump announces his Cabinet appointments, public confidence in his ability to select qualified individuals remains low. Polls indicate significant skepticism, particularly among Democrats and independents, regarding his management capabilities and the qualifications of his nominees, including controversial figures from his inner circle.
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On December 17, 2024, electors across the U.S. formally confirmed Donald Trump's election victory, securing 312 electoral votes against Kamala Harris's 226. This follows Trump's recent cabinet nominations and ongoing legal challenges, including a rejected bid to overturn a hush money conviction.
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A Louisiana patient has been hospitalized with severe H5N1 bird flu, marking the first severe case in the US during the current outbreak. California has declared a state of emergency as the total number of infections rises to 61, prompting concerns about potential human transmission.
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The FDA has revised its definition of 'healthy' foods for the first time in 30 years, imposing stricter limits on added sugars, salt, and saturated fats. The new guidelines aim to help consumers make healthier choices and could impact food marketing strategies. The changes will take effect in 2028.
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The use of GLP-1 inhibitors like Ozempic and Mounjaro for weight loss is sparking significant debate in the U.S. and U.K. Amid rising costs and insurance restrictions, public figures like Elon Musk advocate for broader access, while others warn against misuse and emphasize lifestyle changes. The discussion reflects a growing societal acceptance of these medications.
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As of January 3, 2025, the U.S. has reported 66 confirmed human cases of H5N1, primarily in California and Colorado. The federal government is allocating over $300 million to enhance monitoring and preparedness against the virus, which has not yet shown human-to-human transmission.
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U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has called for updated warning labels on alcoholic beverages to include cancer risks. Research indicates alcohol consumption is linked to nearly 100,000 cancer cases annually in the U.S., with 20,000 deaths. This marks a shift in understanding the health impacts of alcohol, challenging previous beliefs about moderate drinking benefits.
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US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has issued a warning about the cancer risks associated with alcohol consumption, suggesting that alcoholic beverages should carry warning labels similar to those on cigarettes. This advisory has led to a decline in stock prices for major alcohol companies.
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On January 4, 2025, President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 notable figures, including Hillary Clinton, Bono, and Denzel Washington. This ceremony marked Biden's final presentation of the prestigious honor during his presidency, recognizing contributions to American values and global peace.