August 8, 2025
GUILLAUME SOUVANT/AFP via Getty Images

HHS cites list of studies as scientific justification for cancellation of mRNA vaccine contracts

After backlash to Kennedy’s scrapping of mRNA vaccine development, HHS discloses research purported to show harms. Studies have been disputed.

By Chelsea Cirruzzo


Claiming to fight waste, Trump administration slashes potentially cost-saving research

Harvard study that might save the health care system billions is cancelled before the results are in: 'It's a waste," a study participant says

By Eric Boodman


STAT+ | Trump executive order seeks to centralize control of grantmaking under political appointees

Lawsuits expected as Trump executive order centralizes grant control, gives political appointees unprecedented power over funding

By Megan Molteni, Anil Oza, Angus Chen, and Jonathan Wosen



A battered U.S. flag flutters in the wind on the Navajo Nation in Dilkon, Ariz.
Rodrigo Abd/AP

Trump administration wants to defund watchdog groups for Navajo mental health

The Trump administration's budget proposal would reduce funding of protection and advocacy programs for individuals with mental illness.

By O. Rose Broderick


STAT+ | How a Colorado dietitian became Instagram’s top MAHA critic

Like many MAHA moms, Jessica Knurick researched what might harm her baby while pregnant. Alarmed by what she saw, the Ph.D. nutritionist decided to speak up.

By Sarah Todd


STAT+ | Advocates urge South Africa to reopen antitrust probe into Vertex Pharmaceuticals

Vertex maintains its drug is covered by 13 health care providers in South Africa, benefiting most private and public health sector patients.

By Ed Silverman


Chagas disease is spread by triatomine insects, also known as “kissing bugs.”
Adobe

Opinion: A ‘tropical’ disease is spreading in American wildlife

A researcher was startled to find that half of the Illinois raccoons she sampled tested positive for the parasite that causes Chagas disease.

By Esther Onuselogu


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