top story
A New Treatment Era
The Story
A first-of-its-kind Alzheimer’s drug got the FDA’s full approval.
Tell me more.
Yesterday, regulators gave the IV infusion therapy — Leqembi — the green light to treat people with early Alzheimer’s. The drug is not a cure, but it’s the first to slow cognitive decline — by about five months. Since January, the drug’s been conditionally approved. However, Medicare wouldn’t cover Leqembi’s $26,500 price tag without more evidence that the drug worked. Now, the FDA’s latest approval — the first for an Alzheimer’s drug in two decades — means Medicare will cover 80% of Leqembi's cost.
That sounds like good news.
Yes. However, Medicare will only pay for patients who go to a healthcare provider who's enrolled in a nationwide registry. Even though Medicare set up a free portal to make things easier, many worry the process creates a barrier for patients. Some health experts also say Leqembi’s benefits don’t outweigh its potential side effects, which include brain swelling and bleeding. Still, many maintain that the drug is a major feat and offers hope to patients and their families. Under the expanded coverage, up to a million Medicare patients could be eligible for the drug.
theSkimm
More than 6 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s. Now, many hope Leqembi — despite its risks — will pave a new era of treatment for millions of early-stage patients.
and also...this
Where the “forever chemicals” are flowing…
Tap water. Earlier this week, a study found that 45% of Americans' tap water could be contaminated with PFAS. Over the span of five years, the study tested tap water from over 700 US locations for 32 different types of “forever chemicals.” Now, researchers say the Great Plains, Great Lakes, and urban areas near industry or waste sites had higher levels of PFAS in the tap water. One of the study’s authors said people can reach out to their local health officials to learn more about tap water treatment and testing. Other experts said people can install water filters that can reduce PFAS levels.
Who people are talking about…
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA). Yesterday, multiple reports said the House Freedom Caucus — a group of far-right lawmakers — kicked the congresswoman out of the group. The caucus reportedly voted to oust Greene last month after she called Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) a “little b****.” Greene hasn’t commented on the vote but said: “I serve Northwest Georgia first, and serve no group in Washington.” She’s reportedly the first member in the House Freedom Caucus’ history to get the boot.
Who’s speaking out about alleged toxic behavior…
Britney Spears. Yesterday, she addressed an alleged encounter involving NBA rookie Victor Wembanyama’s security. Without mentioning Wembanyama by name, Spears said on social media that a member of his security “back handed” her in the face earlier this week. It reportedly happened after she tapped the Spurs player on the shoulder for a photo at a Las Vegas restaurant. Wembanyama alleged that someone “grabbed” him from behind, and that he didn’t know it was Spears. The pop star’s now reportedly asking for a public apology.
What’s saying ‘thread carefully’...
Twitter. Earlier this week, it threatened to sue Meta over its new Threads app. Twitter alleged Meta used trade secrets and intellectual property by hiring former Twitter employees to build Threads. Meta denied the allegations.
Who’s (rightfully) feeling the heat…
What has people saying “It's All a Blur”...
On Our Radar
The unapologetically explicit new comedy everyone’s already talking about. “Joy Ride” boasts a multi-dimensional cast that packs a side-splitting punch, and is certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Which is more than enough to have us running to theaters this weekend. 🍿
Live Smarter
Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.
