New Predictors May Determine Metabolic Risk in Kids on Atypicals

Large waist circumference and a specific genetic variation may be accurate predictors of an increased risk for metabolic syndrome in children prescribed second-generation antipsychotics. Medscape Medical News

Link Between Parabens and Breast Cancer?

A new study has found traces of parabens in breast cancer tumors. Do they play a role in the development of cancer? Medscape Medical News

Once-Weekly Diabetes Treatment Gets FDA OK

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) — The delay is over for the diabetes drug Bydureon (exenatide extended-release), with FDA approval making it the first once-weekly treatment for type 2 disease.

OIG: Feds Don’t Know Who’s Opted Out of Medicare

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) — Medicare doesn’t adequately track which physicians are opting out of Medicare, making it nearly impossible to determine who is cutting ties with the program and why, according to an OIG memo.

Traffic-Related Asthma Costs Underestimated (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) — The impact that motor vehicle exhaust has on asthma costs is much bigger than once thought, researchers warned.

FDA Supplement Guidance Not Strict Enough, MD Says

(MedPage Today) — An FDA proposal to require dietary supplement manufacturers to submit data proving their product is safe doesn’t go far enough, one expert charged.

Bird Flu Research Debate Leaves Docs Up in the Air

(MedPage Today) — What should be done about controversial research on the H5N1 avian flu that some think should be suppressed and others think has important benefits that should be pursued?

Cancer Screening Falls Short, CDC Says (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) — Large numbers of Americans who should have screening exams for breast, colon, and cervical cancer are not getting them, government researchers said.

Once-Weekly Diabetes Treatment Gets FDA OK

WASHINGTON (MedPage Today) — The delay is over for the diabetes drug Bydureon (exenatide extended-release), with FDA approval making it the first once-weekly treatment for type 2 disease.

FDA OKs Axitinib for Kidney Cancer

(MedPage Today) — Another angiogenesis blocker, axitinib (Inlyta), has won FDA approval as a second-line treatment for advanced kidney cancer, the agency said Friday.