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Trump administration freezes family-planning funds for Planned Parenthood

April 1, 2025
- The Trump administration is withholding Title X funding from Planned Parenthood due to alleged violations of civil rights laws and executive orders. Officials said this could potentially affect access to birth control, cancer screenings and reproductive healthcare.
- The notice accuses Planned Parenthood of noncompliance, including its focus on diversity and inclusion and support for healthcare access for immigrants illegally in the United States.
- Planned Parenthood opposes the funding cut, arguing it will harm public health and access to essential services, and vows to fight to restore funding.
Full Story

The Trump administration will begin to restrict some federal funding from Planned Parenthood on Tuesday, April 1, due to possible violations of civil rights laws. The move could make it more difficult for Americans to access birth control, cancer screenings and reproductive healthcare, the organization said in a press release.

Nine Planned Parenthood chapters received a notice late Monday, March 31, which included the Trump administration’s plans to withhold Title X funding, according to the release.

The planned funding cut was first reported by the Wall Street Journal last week, which said the move would freeze $27.5 million to Planned Parenthood and other organizations.

What is Title X?

Title X, enacted in 1970, refers to the Title X Family Funding Program, a government-sponsored grant that provides family planning and related health services, primarily for those in financial hardship and those without access to healthcare.

Planned Parenthood reported more than three-quarters of its affiliates participate in the Title X program. In 2023, the organization’s affiliates provided over 400,000 cancer screening and prevention services, over 2 million birth control services and over 5 million sexually transmitted infection services.

What was in the notice?

The notice, shared with POLITICO, informed the Planned Parenthood affiliates that their funding is being “temporarily withheld,” indicating “possible violations” of federal civil rights laws and President Donald Trump’s executive orders, including a ban on diversity, equity and inclusion and “taxpayer subsidization of open borders.”

According to POLITICO, the letter points to the clinics’ mission statements and other documents emphasizing a “commitment to black communities” as proof of noncompliance.

POLITICO reported that Amy Margolis, deputy director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Public Affairs, claimed the materials depict Planned Parenthood as engaging in widespread, negatively race-based practices across hiring, operations and patient treatment.

The letter also accuses Planned Parenthood of encouraging “illegal aliens” to receive care.

How did Planned Parenthood respond?

The president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Action Fund released a statement:

“President Trump and Elon Musk are pushing their dangerous political agenda, stripping health care access from people nationwide, and not giving a second thought to the devastation they will cause. We know what happens when health care providers cannot use Title X funding: People across the country suffer, cancers go undetected, access to birth control is severely reduced, and the nation’s STI crisis worsens. Planned Parenthood Action Fund will fight to get this funding restored and to keep politicians out of health care. People need affordable health care options. This cannot stand.”
Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Action Fund

In a post to Threads, Planned Parenthood wrote, “When we say “Care no matter what,” we mean it. Planned Parenthood health centers’ doors are open to everyone. Period. We’ve fought to protect your care for decades and won’t stop now.”

View on Threads

What is the organization’s history with the Trump administration?

During Trump’s first term in 2019, his administration altered Title X, instituting what abortion providers called a “gag rule,” banning clinics that received Title X aid from referring patients for abortions.

Planned Parenthood left the Title X program instead of complying with the restrictions.

The organization rejoined the program in 2021 when President Joe Biden took office.

In October 2024, Vice President JD Vance said Trump would move to end federal funding to Planned Parenthood if he won a second term. Vance said the campaign did not “think that taxpayers should fund late-term abortions.”

What happens next?

According to POLITICO, HHS is giving Planned Parenthood 10 days to provide evidence that it will comply with the Trump administration’s executive orders. It will then inform the group whether the grants are suspended or terminated.
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What’s lurking in your water? The risks of bacteria and microplastics

March 17, 2025
- Studies reveal that people ingest thousands of microplastic particles annually, while reusable water bottles can harbor bacteria multiplying to millions within 24 hours. Switching to filtered tap water and proper bottle cleaning practices can significantly reduce these risks.
- Microplastics from water, seafood, and plastic containers release chemicals like BPA, linked to health issues such as reproductive problems and chronic diseases.
- Bacteria in reusable bottles thrive at room temperature but can be minimized with regular cleaning methods, such as dishwasher sanitation cycles with hot water.
Full Story

It’s hard to hydrate these days. Studies reveal that while you may aim to stay healthy, your water may hide tiny threats.

Not only are you likely ingesting thousands of microplastic particles annually, but reusable water bottles may also fuel bacteria growth—reaching millions of cells in just 24 hours.

How to reduce microplastic intake

According to research published in Genomic Press, drinking from plastic bottles could lead to the consumption of 90,000 microplastic particles each year. The good news is that switching to filtered tap water significantly reduces that to just 4,000 microplastic particles annually.

Microplastics don’t just come from water, though. Researchers also identify seafood and alcohol as significant dietary sources of these particles. Additionally, plastic food containers may release millions of microplastic particles when exposed to microwave heat, as noted in a 2023 ACS Medical Paper.

Health risks linked to microplastics

The risks of microplastics are concerning. These particles carry hormone-disrupting chemicals like BPA, which are associated with reproductive and developmental health problems.

They may also release toxic chemicals into the body, potentially causing inflammation linked to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune conditions. Studies have even found microplastics in human blood, lungs, and placentas, raising alarms about long-term impacts.

The same Genomic Press study now warns that increasing levels of micro- and nanoplastics in the brain could pose particular risks, especially for dementia patients.

Bacteria in reusable water bottles

Reusable water bottles, despite being environmentally friendly, also have flaws. A Monday BBC article explains that bacteria in water bottles can multiply by millions within a day. Leaving water to sit for days at room temperature only increases growth.

While most bacteria in bottles are harmless, some may cause disease, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. Proper cleaning becomes essential to minimize risks.

How to clean water bottles effectively

The study shows that using a cleaning brush or dishwasher is most effective in reducing bacteria counts. Running your bottle through a dishwasher’s sanitation cycle with hot water above 140 degrees kills most pathogens.

However, bacteria are still present no matter how often or what cleaning method is used. Bottles containing beverages like tea, coffee or juice tend to have higher contamination levels than those containing water.

If your bottle starts to smell, replace it. BPA-free reusable bottles are less harmful as bacteria can bind to plastic, increasing health risks.
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Cancer-causing toxins found in 10 popular braiding hair brands: Report

March 3, 2025
- A recent investigation found toxic chemicals in popular synthetic braiding hair brands, sparking concern among those who use them. Consumer Reports tested 10 popular brands and found chemicals linked to cancer in all of them.
- Chrystal Thomas, a medical student, initiated the study after she experienced an allergic reaction the same day she got braids.
- To reduce exposure, experts recommend taking breaks between installs and washing synthetic braiding hair with an apple cider vinegar rinse, although there is no scientific proof that this method works.
Full Story

A recent investigation found toxic chemicals in popular synthetic braiding hair brands. The findings have sparked concern among consumers, especially those who wear protective styles regularly.

Consumer Reports tested 10 popular synthetic braiding hair brands, all containing chemicals linked to cancer. Chrystal Thomas, a medical student, initiated the research after she experienced an allergic reaction the same day she got braids.

Synthetic braiding hair is widely used for protective styles. While Black women are the primary consumers, others use it for longer, fuller braids. However, after installing synthetic braiding hair, many people have reported scalp irritation, itching, throat discomfort, and red bumps.

The cost of synthetic braiding hair

One reason synthetic braiding hair is popular is its affordability. Most styles require three to five packs of hair, each costing as little as $4. Some fuller styles need up to eight packs, increasing the overall price.

Beyond the cost of the hair, installation can be expensive. Some professional braid installations exceed $1,000, making it a significant investment. The synthetic hair industry continues to grow, reaching nearly $2.8 billion in 2023.

Potential health risks of synthetic hair

Synthetic braiding hair is made from plastic-based fibers designed to mimic natural hair. Most brands use Kanekalon or Toyokalon fibers. To seal the braids, many people dip the hair in boiling water or run a lighter along the ends. Consumer Reports found that heating synthetic hair can release harmful chemicals into the air.

To reduce exposure, experts recommend taking breaks between installs. Many people also wash synthetic braiding hair with an apple cider vinegar rinse to remove chemical coatings. However, there is no scientific proof that this method works. Dermatologists warn that improper dilution of vinegar could release more harmful chemicals instead of neutralizing them.

Brands respond to the findings

Two brands tested, Sensationnel and Magic Fingers, responded to the investigation. Both companies stated that they ensure the safety of their products. Sensationnel urged consumers to continue using their hair, insisting it meets safety standards.

These findings add to growing concerns about the safety of hair products marketed to Black women. Studies have already linked chemical hair relaxers to a higher risk of fibroids and certain cancers. Now, synthetic braiding hair is under scrutiny.
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New plant species discovered in US national park for first time in 50 years

February 25, 2025
- A botany volunteer discovered a never-before-seen plant species in Texas’ Big Bend National Park. Park botanists have dubbed the tiny plant the “wooly devil.”
- DNA analysis of the flowering plant shows it’s related to daisies but has its own genus.
- Researchers continue to investigate whether the species has medicinal properties.
Full Story

For the first time in half a century, a volunteer botanist discovered a new plant species at one of America’s national parks. The plant, dubbed the “wooly devil,” was first spotted in 2024 in Texas’ Big Bend National Park.

The plant was unlike anything anyone had ever seen at the park before, so park officials researched it.

What do we know about the ‘wooly devil’?

After combing through plant databases, contacting experts and asking for help online, park officials realized they had something unique on their land.

Scientists said the “wooly devil” falls into the daisy family and is closely related to paperflowers and bitterweed. However, a DNA analysis found it’s so genetically unique that it had to be considered a new genus.

The plant is also much smaller than its cousins, ranging from less than one centimeter to 3-7 centimeters across.

Its official name is ovicula biradiata. Ovicula means tiny sheep, since it’s fuzzy, and biradiata refers to the two ray-like petals in each flower.

Where does it grow?

So far, botanists have only found the plant in three narrow locations in the northernmost corner of the 800,000-acre national park.

Park botanist C. Whiting takes a closer look at wooly devil (Courtesy Big Bend National Park)

What’s next for this new discovery?

Researchers said they’re now investigating the “wooly devil’s” potential medicinal properties after they noticed under a microscope it has glands similar to those in other plants that are known to possess compounds with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
New vaccine shows promise for treating one of the deadliest forms of cancer

February 20, 2025
- Researchers say the results of a phase 1 trial of an mRNA vaccine aimed at preventing pancreatic cancer show promise. In the trial, the vaccine prevented the cancer from coming back in patients who had already received treatment for up to three years.
- Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease because symptoms don’t usually appear until it’s in its later stages.
- Researchers are now looking to see how effective the vaccine is when used to treat a larger group of pancreatic cancer patients.
Full Story

A new experimental vaccine to treat pancreatic cancer is showing promise in a phase 1 clinical trial. In a study published on Wednesday, Feb. 19, researchers with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center found the mRNA vaccine reduces the risk of pancreatic cancer returning after surgery.

Why do we need a pancreatic cancer vaccine?

Pancreatic cancer is one of the less common but most deadly forms of the disease. Only about 13% of people diagnosed with it live for more than five years after diagnosis, according to the American Cancer Society. That’s because 90% of the time the cases are already advanced by the time they’re diagnosed.

Pancreatic cancer often goes unnoticed until symptoms start to appear in its later stages and unlike other cancers, there’s no routine screening for it. On top of that, once it’s detected, there aren’t many effective treatments.

How would the vaccine help?

Researchers have not yet tested the vaccine as a preventative measure against pancreatic cancer. However, it could be one day.

Scientists say mRNA vaccines work by effectively teaching a person’s immune system to detect and fight cancer cells.

This new study found that the vaccine had activated tumor-specific immune cells that kept working in the body for up to nearly four years after treatment in some patients.

Researchers also found patients who had a vaccine-induced immune response had a lower risk of the cancer coming back after three years, compared with patients whose immune systems did not respond to the vaccine.

What’s next for the vaccine?

The phase 1 trial included 16 people. Researchers said the next step is figuring out if the immune response triggered by the vaccine extends patients’ lives and if so, by how much. That trial is already underway and will test the vaccine’s efficacy on a larger group of more than 250 patients.
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FDA allows sale of ZYN nicotine pouches, cites lower risks than cigarettes

January 16, 2025
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has officially approved nicotine pouches from ZYN, deeming them safer than traditional cigarettes and lower in health risks. The decision made on Thursday, Jan. 16, marks a significant win for ZYN, allowing it to remain on the market.

After a scientific review, the FDA approved 20 new ZYN products. These pouches, placed between the gum and lip, deliver nicotine in varying doses. ZYN submitted an application asking the FDA for permission to market the products to consumers.

The FDA’s decision is based on a law that establishes public health standards for tobacco products. This leaves it to the agency to evaluate the benefits and risks of new products.

In its review, the FDA concluded that nicotine pouches contain fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes and other smokeless tobacco products. The administration said this reduces the risk of cancer and other serious health issues.

The FDA also found a significant number of smokers completely switched to nicotine pouches, with the potential to quit nicotine altogether over time.

Swedish Match, a company affiliated with the tobacco product, praised the FDA’s decision. They say it was “An important step to protect the public health by providing better alternatives to cigarettes and other traditional tobacco products for adults.”

ZYN has experienced a surge in sales, partially fueled by social media trends. However, the rise in popularity has raised concerns among public health groups, which are focused on preventing youth access to nicotine products. Despite growing sales, the FDA reports that fewer than 2% of middle and high school students use nicotine pouches, according to a recent study.

However, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids criticized the FDA’s approval. They call it a “dangerous precedent” that allows products with flavors “clearly appealing to kids.”

The approval of nicotine pouches comes with cautionary notes. Dr. Brian King, director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, emphasized that the agency is closely monitoring the marketplace. He says they are committed to taking necessary action to protect public health.

ZYN must adhere to strict marketing restrictions to ensure its products are only advertised to those over 21. Despite the FDA’s approval, the agency stresses that these products are not safe. The FDA warns against starting to use tobacco products.

The decision to allow nicotine pouches on the market represents a major shift in the regulation of tobacco products, with the FDA taking a new approach to reducing health risks while offering alternatives to traditional smoking.
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Women see rise in cancer rates as rates in men decrease: Report

January 16, 2025
A new American Cancer Society report revealed women in some age groups are being diagnosed with cancer more often than men. The findings suggested that higher cancer rates are shifting from men to women, and the gaps between sexes, as well as between older and younger adults, have narrowed greatly.

The American Cancer Society’s data also noted cancer rates in women ages 50 to 64 are now higher than in men.

In 2021, women under 50 years old had an 82% higher cancer rate than men the same age. In 2002, it was only a 51% higher rate than men.

The research showed an increase in cancer diagnoses among younger Americans.

While the American Cancer Society said it is unclear what is driving the increase in women and younger adults, it listed possible factors. Obesity, alcohol use, ultra-processed foods, smoking and environmental hazards are among possible contributors.

The American Cancer Society said racial disparities in cancer rates still exist, with minorities seeing higher rates of cancer diagnoses.

The study also found overall cancer death rates fell by 34% since their peak in the early 1990s.
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FDA bans Red No. 3 in food and drinks due to potential cancer risk

January 15, 2025
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is taking steps to remove the synthetic dye Red No. 3 from food and beverages, decades after it was linked to cancer risks. Originally approved in 1907, the additive has been a staple in many popular foods, including candy, cereal, cherries and dietary supplements.

In 1980, studies raised alarms about its potential to cause cancer, specifically after high doses of the dye were shown to induce tumors in male rats.

Though the research prompted concern, the FDA did not take immediate action, citing the effects on humans were not shown. However, in recent years, advocacy groups and lawmakers have pressed for stronger action against the dye, prompting the FDA to revisit its stance.

On Wednesday, Jan. 15, the FDA announced plans to remove Red No. 3 from the list of approved color additives, citing the Delaney clause, a law banning any food additives known to cause cancer in both people and animals.

The Center for Science in the Public Interest, which led a petition in 2022 urging the FDA to take action, applauded the move, but called it long overdue. The group pointed to the fact that the dye had already been banned in cosmetics, but remained legal in food and drinks, until now.

“At long last, the FDA is ending the regulatory paradox of Red 3 being illegal for use in lipstick, but perfectly legal to feed to children in the form of candy,” the group said in a statement.

In addition to pressure from advocacy groups, nearly two dozen lawmakers recently called on the FDA to take action for the sake of children’s safety, with their letter stating, “No aesthetic reason could justify the use of a carcinogen in our food supply.”

Other countries, including Japan, Australia and New Zealand, have already restricted or banned the use of Red No. 3 in food products. Now, the U.S. is moving to follow suit.

The FDA is giving manufacturers until 2027 to remove the dye from their products, with an additional year for drug makers to comply with the new regulations.
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Your ‘face age’ could unlock clues about your health

December 27, 2024
What if one photo could reveal more than just your face—but also your health? Doctors are now turning to FaceAge AI as a powerful new tool for medical insights.

The idea of using technology to analyze faces isn’t new. Apps and TikTok filters claiming to reveal your age have been popular for years. But FaceAge AI isn’t just a passing trend.

This AI model has been trained on tens of thousands of photos from patients and public image databases. Its goal? To detect subtle signs of aging that could provide valuable insights into your overall health.

Dr. Raymond Mak, a radiation oncologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, co-led the study that explored this innovative tool. He told The Wall Street Journal that our faces reflect the wear and tear of a lifetime—an intricate roadmap that doctors are just beginning to decode.

This tool could be especially groundbreaking for oncologists. Physicians already rely on visual cues and gut instincts when assessing a patient’s health. With FaceAge AI, these decisions could become even more precise.

Dr. Mak shared an example of its potential impact. He treated a 90-year-old lung cancer patient who appeared much younger than his age. Trusting his instincts, Mak tailored the treatment as if the patient were younger. Later, he ran the patient’s photo through FaceAge AI, which estimated the patient’s biological age at just 66.

Concerns about bias

Despite its promise, FaceAge has raised concerns. Critics worry that predictions of shorter life expectancy could lead to biased or unequal treatment.

Additionally, experts caution that the tool still has limitations. An associate professor at Harvard told The Wall Street Journal that racial groups may be underrepresented in the datasets, and factors like cosmetic procedures or poor lighting could skew results.

If you want to explore your biological age, NOVOS offers a free version of its tool. It analyzes features like wrinkles, eyes, and pores, then provides health tips, such as cutting back on sugary foods if you score low in specific areas.

While FaceAge might offer fascinating insights—or inspire a new skincare routine—it’s no substitute for real medical advice.
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FDA proposes new talc testing rules to keep cosmetics asbestos-free

December 27, 2024
Talc, the main ingredient in baby powder, has long been known to contain cancer-causing and potentially deadly asbestos, but it’s still being used to make cosmetics. Now, a new rule proposed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) looks to make sure products containing talc are asbestos-free.

Talc is used to absorb moisture or improve the look and feel of some makeup. Like asbestos, it’s a mineral, but unlike asbestos, it is not toxic on its own. However, if talc is mined from an area near asbestos, there’s a good chance of cross contamination.

The FDA said since 2021, lab testing of more than 150 cosmetic samples has come back negative for asbestos. Still though, in 2023 Congress passed a law requiring the FDA to release new standards for industry testing.

The decision came in the wake of multiple lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson, one of the biggest manufacturers of baby powder. Thousands of people have claimed baby powder caused ovarian and other cancers.

The new proposal is open to public comment for 90 days before the FDA can make it an official rule.
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