Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Cancer Advocacy Groups Come Out Swinging For 'Moonshot' Resources
STAT: Windfall For Cancer Research Sets Off A Scramble For Clout
With the Obama administration swinging behind Biden’s “moonshot” effort, and with the National Institutes of Health looking to build on its biggest funding increase in 12 years, cancer advocacy organizations see a window of opportunity to gain additional funding and attention for their respective causes. But if the history of cancer politics in Washington is any guide, the competition will be intense. There are more than 75 cancer advocacy groups that try to make their case in Washington, and while they may share broad goals, scarce resources have long engendered competition among them, fueling tension that is only likely to intensify with more money at stake. (Nather and Kaplan, 4/19)
In other public health news, seniors have a place to safely get their steps in, and the American Academy of Pediatrics calls attention to the need for better management of newborns' pain —
Kaiser Health News: Need Exercise? Go To The Mall
Flora Yang is small, spry and not afraid to tell you her age: "90-something." She walks twice a week at Mazza Gallerie in Northwest Washington, D.C., and says mall walking keeps her young and fit. Health officials are starting to notice that effect too and say more malls should open their doors to walkers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has put out a guide saying the mall is a perfect place for seniors to get in their steps. (Gorman, 4/20)
The Associated Press: Better Preemie Pain Relief Sought Amid New Call For Action
It happens every day to the most vulnerable infants in hospital intensive care units: fragile babies born way too soon are poked, prodded and jabbed as part of medical care meant to help them survive — and it can be heart-wrenching to watch. ... experts say, pain relief for newborns and especially preemies is often inadequate, despite evidence that low-tech comforting methods and medication can both be effective. (Tanner, 4/20)
