Author: Staff Reporter

The cancer medication leucovorin shows promise as a therapy for autism spectrum disorder, potentially enhancing communication skills in children, according to federal health officials.

Federal health officials recently highlighted the potential of leucovorin, a cancer medication, to serve as a therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). During a press conference on autism-related topics, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Jay Bhattacharya, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz discussed research indicating that leucovorin may improve communication skills in some children with autism.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is preparing to approve leucovorin as a treatment for speech-related deficits associated with ASD. This approval will involve updating the drug’s label to include treatment for cerebral folate deficiency, a condition linked to autism. Following this label update, state Medicaid programs will be able to cover leucovorin for autism treatment, as stated in a press release from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The NIH is also set to initiate new research initiatives aimed at examining the safety and effectiveness of leucovorin for children with autism. Preliminary studies suggest that the drug could help some non-verbal children develop the ability to speak.

Leucovorin, a prescription vitamin, is primarily used to treat cancer and anemia. It functions similarly to folic acid, aiding in the restoration of folate levels in patients who struggle to absorb or utilize it effectively. Katy Dubinsky, a New York pharmacist and CEO of Vitalize, a private supplement company, explained that leucovorin is FDA-approved to mitigate the toxic effects of high-dose methotrexate in cancer treatment and to prevent or treat certain types of anemia caused by folate deficiency.

While leucovorin is not currently prescribed for autism, some families have reported significant improvements in their children’s communication skills through its off-label use. Dr. Richard E. Frye, a behavioral child neurologist in Arizona, has conducted research on the drug as part of his exploration of experimental treatments for children with ASD. He noted that leucovorin is a special form of vitamin B9 that is water-soluble and does not accumulate in the body.

Dr. Frye emphasized that folates have been deemed safe for long-term use, which is why they are supplemented in food. He pointed out that the primary benefit of leucovorin for children with autism is its potential to enhance language skills, although it may also improve social functioning, reduce repetitive behaviors, and strengthen attention skills. “We do find that leucovorin helps a substantial number of children with autism,” he said, adding that language improvement is the most measurable outcome in clinical trials.

Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and Fox News’ senior medical analyst, also discussed the drug’s positive effects. He explained that central folate deficiency, characterized by a lack of folate in the brain, can disrupt neurological function. Research has shown that a significant percentage of children with ASD have antibodies against folic receptor alpha in the brain. Leucovorin is converted to folate in the brain through a different pathway, which may explain its beneficial effects.

Although small studies have indicated that leucovorin can improve neurological function and communication skills in children with ASD, experts agree that larger studies are necessary to confirm these findings. The long history of leucovorin’s use in cancer treatment helps mitigate associated risks, according to Dr. Frye. “One of the advantages of using leucovorin is that it’s been used for decades to protect the body from the effects of chemotherapy, so we know what dose to use and any side effects it may produce,” he stated.

However, Dr. Frye cautioned that some children may experience hyperactivity or may not respond to leucovorin, necessitating alternative treatments. He stressed the importance of consulting with a medical professional when considering leucovorin for autism treatment. “Leucovorin is given at much higher doses than regular vitamins, so it’s very important to work with a doctor knowledgeable in how to prescribe it,” he advised.

While leucovorin is available at pharmacies, Dr. Frye noted that some children may require a compounded form due to sensitivities to certain additives in commercial products. He expressed hope that the FDA will approve leucovorin for autism, allowing it to be widely prescribed as one of the first treatments following diagnosis.

Dubinsky concurred, stating that physicians may prescribe the “widely used and well-tolerated drug” for autism treatment based on clinical judgment and emerging evidence. She emphasized that FDA approval would lend stronger medical backing, transforming leucovorin from an off-label option into a recognized treatment. This could lead to insurance coverage, standardized dosing guidelines, and greater acceptance within the medical community.

Dr. Siegel added that leucovorin is a “safe drug” and should be considered for broader use based on recent research findings. However, Dr. Frye cautioned that there is “no magic bullet” for autism, noting that many children benefit from a combination of treatments. “It is unlikely that leucovorin will be used alone — it must be used with behavioral and speech therapy,” he said, adding that leucovorin could enhance outcomes for these therapies.

Dr. Andy Shih, chief science officer of Autism Speaks, highlighted the individuality of each child’s experience with autism. He noted that while some small studies have explored leucovorin as a potential treatment, larger controlled clinical trials are essential to determine its efficacy and safety. He urged families to consult with their doctors before considering off-label treatments.

Dubinsky concluded that if larger studies confirm leucovorin’s effectiveness, it could become a more accessible treatment option for children with autism who may benefit from it.

Source: Original article

New research indicates that being underweight may pose a greater mortality risk than being overweight, challenging traditional views on body mass index (BMI) and health.

A significant new study from Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark has revealed that individuals who are underweight face a higher risk of death compared to those who are overweight or moderately obese. The research, which followed over 85,000 adults, suggests that the long-held assumptions surrounding body mass index (BMI) and health may need reevaluation.

According to the findings, people categorized as underweight were nearly three times more likely to die during the study period than those at the upper end of the normal BMI range. Even participants within the “healthy” BMI range but on the lower end exhibited an increased risk of early mortality.

In contrast, those who were overweight or moderately obese did not show higher death rates when compared to individuals with BMIs in the upper-normal range. This challenges the traditional view that excess weight is inherently dangerous, suggesting that being “fat but fit” may be a more accurate reflection of health than previously thought.

The researchers presented their findings at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) held in Vienna last week. The study highlights the importance of body fat distribution and underlying health conditions in determining overall health outcomes.

Dr. Sigrid Bjerge Gribsholt, the lead researcher, emphasized that both underweight and obesity represent significant global health challenges. Obesity is known to disrupt metabolic processes, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of various diseases, including Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and several types of cancer. Conversely, being underweight is often associated with malnutrition, weakened immunity, and nutrient deficiencies.

Jens Meldgaard Bruun, another researcher involved in the study, pointed out that visceral fat—fat stored deep within the abdomen—can have detrimental effects on metabolic health. He explained that individuals with the same BMI can have vastly different health outcomes based on where their body fat is distributed. For instance, someone with a BMI of 35 who carries excess fat around their abdomen may be at risk for conditions like Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, while another person with the same BMI but with fat distributed around their hips and thighs may be healthier.

Bruun noted that treatment for obesity should be personalized, taking into account these factors and other health conditions when determining target weight. This approach could lead to more effective management of obesity and its associated health risks.

Dr. Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula, an epidemiologist at North Dakota State University who was not involved in the research, commented on the implications of the findings. He stated that they support other recent studies while challenging existing medical guidelines that assume health risks increase steadily with BMI. Bhagavathula explained that higher death rates in individuals with lower BMIs may stem from underlying illnesses that cause weight loss, making low weight appear more dangerous than it truly is.

He added that obesity often precedes serious health issues, according to the World Health Organization. In older adults, age-related muscle loss can increase vulnerability to falls and infections, while mild excess weight may provide a protective effect by serving as an energy reserve during illness. The healthy and active lifestyle in Denmark, characterized by widespread cycling, may also contribute to this protective effect.

Bhagavathula emphasized the need to consider BMI alongside other health measures, such as waist-to-height ratios, muscle mass, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels, as well as factors like sex and ethnicity. He argued that current health messaging often places excessive focus on weight loss, leading to shame and unnecessary medical interventions for individuals who are overweight but maintain normal bodily functions.

In light of these findings, Bhagavathula advocates for a shift in health messaging towards a nutrition-focused approach that emphasizes how the body processes food, alongside promoting physical activity and balanced eating, rather than relying solely on BMI as an indicator of health.

This research underscores the complexity of the relationship between body weight, health, and mortality, suggesting that a more nuanced understanding is necessary for effective public health strategies.

Source: Original article

Vaccination is the most effective method for preventing hepatitis B, a serious liver infection that can lead to acute or chronic complications.

Medical experts emphasize that vaccination is the best prevention method for hepatitis B, a liver infection that can manifest in both acute and chronic forms. This viral infection has no cure and may result in a range of serious complications.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his advisory group are scheduled to meet this week to discuss and vote on various vaccine recommendations, including those for hepatitis B, COVID-19, and measles, mumps, and rubella.

Hepatitis B is recognized as a significant viral infection that causes inflammation in the liver and is the most prevalent liver infection globally, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 254 million people worldwide are currently living with this infection.

The infection can present as acute hepatitis B, which is typically brief, or as chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to severe complications such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver failure. The virus is transmitted through exposure to infected bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, and other secretions. Common routes of transmission include unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, and the use of contaminated medical instruments. Additionally, a pregnant woman can pass the virus to her newborn during childbirth, as noted by the Mayo Clinic.

While anyone can contract hepatitis B, certain individuals are at a higher risk. This includes those with sexually transmitted infections, individuals undergoing immunosuppressive treatments (such as chemotherapy), patients receiving dialysis, and those with other liver diseases.

Although the viral infection does not always present symptoms, some common signs include abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, joint pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and weakness. Other symptoms indicative of liver disease may include dark-colored urine, light or clay-colored stool, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and swelling due to fluid accumulation in the abdomen, arms, and legs.

A person remains contagious as long as the virus is active in their body. Acute hepatitis B can last for up to six months, while individuals with active chronic hepatitis B can remain contagious indefinitely. In contrast, those with inactive chronic hepatitis B have a lower risk of transmission.

Both acute and chronic forms of hepatitis B can lead to various complications, including acute and chronic liver failure, cirrhosis, hepatitis D, and liver cancer, according to health experts.

Diagnosis of hepatitis B typically involves blood tests, imaging tests such as elastography of the liver tissue, or a liver biopsy. Blood tests can determine whether the virus is active or inactive.

While there is no cure for hepatitis B, certain antiviral medications can help make the virus inactive. In chronic cases, these medications must be taken indefinitely. If the infection progresses to cancer, surgical options may include removing part of the liver or, in severe cases, a liver transplant.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends hepatitis B vaccination for all infants, children under 19, adults aged 19 to 59, and individuals over 60 who have risk factors. Various hepatitis B vaccines are available, each requiring different dosing schedules.

The Cleveland Clinic advises individuals with hepatitis B to avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy diet, protect themselves from other liver infections, and seek support as needed. They note, “If tests show you have hepatitis B, you may wonder how the disease will change your life. You may worry about spreading the virus to others. The good news is there are medications that keep chronic hepatitis B from spreading. And there are steps you can take to protect your overall health and protect others.”

Source: Original article

Adults who consume cannabis are nearly four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than non-users, according to a new study analyzing medical records across the U.S. and Europe.

A recent study reveals that adults who use cannabis are at a significantly higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who do not partake in the substance. Researchers, led by Dr. Ibrahim Kamel from the Boston Medical Center in Massachusetts, conducted an extensive analysis of medical records from 54 healthcare organizations across the United States and Europe using the TriNetX Research Network.

The study examined approximately 96,800 individuals with cannabis-related diagnoses, ranging from casual users to those with dependency issues. This group was compared to more than 4.16 million individuals who had no recorded history of drug use or chronic illness.

Over a five-year period, the findings indicated that 2.2% of cannabis users developed type 2 diabetes, in stark contrast to just 0.6% of non-users. Even after adjusting for various health risks, including high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, heart disease, and the use of other substances like alcohol or cocaine, marijuana users still exhibited a heightened risk of diabetes.

Experts suggest that the increased risk may be linked to the effects of marijuana on appetite, metabolism, and insulin resistance. Cannabis use is frequently associated with poor dietary habits, which could contribute to elevated blood sugar levels over time.

As marijuana becomes increasingly legalized and socially accepted, it is often viewed as a safer alternative to alcohol or tobacco. However, the research highlights that the long-term health risks associated with cannabis use may be more severe than many people realize.

“As cannabis becomes more widely available and socially accepted and legalized in various jurisdictions, it is essential to understand its potential health risks,” Kamel stated in a press release.

While the study provides valuable insights, the researchers acknowledged certain limitations. The retrospective design of the study means it examined existing patient records rather than tracking new cases over time, making it challenging to establish a direct causal relationship between marijuana use and diabetes.

Moreover, the risk levels may vary significantly between occasional users and those who consume cannabis daily. The researchers also noted the potential for bias, as the study relied on self-reported cannabis use, which could be inaccurate, especially in regions where marijuana use is illegal. Additionally, the study did not quantify the amount of cannabis used by participants.

Given these findings, physicians may need to engage in discussions with patients about their cannabis use to better assess their overall diabetes risk and determine whether metabolic monitoring is necessary. Kamel emphasized the importance of integrating diabetes risk awareness into treatment and counseling for substance-use disorders.

“These new insights from reliable, real-world evidence highlight the importance of integrating diabetes risk awareness into substance-use disorder treatment and counseling,” he added.

Fox News Digital reached out to various cannabis industry organizations for comment regarding the study’s findings.

Source: Original article