Latest KFF Health News Stories
Researchers Discover How To Turn Off Chronic Inflammation
Researchers at the University College London have found that promoting tiny, fat-derived molecules called epoxy-oxylipins can help regulate a type of immune cell linked to chronic inflammation. Plus: why men develop heart disease earlier than women; the gap in hypertension control in the U.S.; and more.
Under New State Law, Texas Man Sues California Doctor Over Abortion Pills
A Texas law that took effect Dec. 4 allows private citizens to sue anyone who manufactures, distributes, mails, or provides abortion medication to or from the state. Plus: The issue of recreational pot won’t appear on Florida’s ballots after petition signatures fell short.
HHS Aggressively Rolling Out AI, Data Show, But Transparency Is Missing
A year into President Trump’s revamped federal AI plans, new data show that while the Department of Health and Human Services’ use of AI tools is up by 64%, only two of the 467 use cases identify adverse impacts, appeal processes, and incorporate feedback from users and the public, achieving “high-impact” status. Both are in the pre-deployment phase.
RFK Jr. Unveils $100M Faith-Based Plan To Stem ‘Spiritual Disease’ Of Addiction
The Safety Through Recovery, Engagement and Evidence-Based Treatment and Supports (STREETS) initiative expands the role of religious organizations in helping people who are both homeless and mentally ill or addicted, The New York Times reported. More administration news is about animal testing, NIH workers, a Planned Parenthood lawsuit, and more.
Measles Reported At Crowded ICE Site In Texas; Doctors Seek Urgent Action
One San Antonio-based physician implored the state to take “an immediate, unified command-and-control of the measles outbreak.” He emphasized that “this is a public health emergency,” given workers who come and go from the facility can spread the disease.
First Edition: Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Opinion writers discuss these public health topics.
Kidney Disease-Heart Failure Link May Be Traced To A Tiny Toxin, Study Finds
Researchers have discovered that diseased kidneys secrete tiny particles that are harmful to the heart. Other public health news looks at heart disease among women, how to guard against hypothermia and frostbite, and a salmonella outbreak.
Judge Takes Death Penalty Off The Table In UnitedHealthcare CEO Slaying
Judge Margaret Garnett has dismissed two charges against Luigi Mangione, who is accused of killing Brian Thompson in 2024. However, Mangione still faces a charge of second-degree murder in the case. The judge also ruled that evidence collected from his backpack is admissible. Prosecutors have 30 days to appeal the death penalty decision.
A Germy Mix Of Flu, Coupled With Covid And RSV, Is Afflicting The Nation
Influenza A rates have remained stable, but influenza B is starting to spread. This comes as the CDC reports evidence of a covid upsurge in 11 states and respiratory syncytial virus in 21 states. Plus, two more children sick with flu have died this season. “It is not too late to get vaccinated,” the CDC says.
Justice Department Begins Civil Rights Inquiry Into Nurse’s Killing In Minn.
Alex Pretti was shot and killed Jan. 24 while protesting federal agents. The Department of Homeland Security is also investigating the shooting, Bloomberg reported.
More States Are Rolling Out New SNAP Work Requirements
The requirements mean that 18- to 64-year-olds without dependents will have to work a minimum of 80 hours a month to be eligible. Those not meeting the requirements can receive benefits for only three months within a three-year period. Rollout has been varied across states.
Speaker Johnson Hopeful He’ll Secure A Quick End To Government Shutdown
Funding measures for Health and Human Services and other departments cleared the Senate, but the appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security has been pulled back for more consideration. The House must again take up votes on the measures passed by the Senate.
First Edition: Monday, Feb. 2, 2026
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Editorial writers examine these public health issues.
Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed
Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today’s selections are on lung transplants, male birth control, a power struggle at the NIH, and more.
Genetics Play Greater Role In Lifespan Than Previously Thought, Study Shows
A study published Thursday suggests the genetic contribution to a person’s longevity could be as high as 55%, which is in stark contrast to the previously estimated 6% to 33%. Plus: GLP-1s are linked to pancreatitis; a lower risk of amputation for people with diabetes on GLP-1s; B6 toxicity; and more.
Colorado Democrats Move To Update Red Flag Law And Regulate Gun Barrels
Democrats in the Colorado legislature have given approval of Senate Bill 4, which would allow behavioral health co-responders to ask a judge to order the removal of an individual’s firearms. Also in the news: Iowa, Texas, Mississippi, Florida, and California.
Covid Exposure In Utero Could Affect Brain Development, Researchers Find
Scientists investigating the mysteries of SARS-CoV-2 are finding subtle differences in brain structure among babies exposed to the virus before they were born. They say their findings underscore the need for vaccination. Also, a study debunks the theory that covid vaccines affect fertility.
Trump Unveils Plan To Prevent Drug Use, Boost Treatment And Recovery
The president’s executive order is intended “to help Americans struggling with all forms of addiction … get the help and the support they need.” Plus, TrumpRx won’t launch this month after all.
