A growing number of scientists are taking action against the Trump administration’s policies that they say affect their livelihoods and ability to conduct research. Unions representing fellows at the NIH and several universities are planning a protest at HHS headquarters, while a grassroots group is organizing protests in D.C. and state capitals across the country.
The protests come after years of disruptions to grant reviews, funding cuts, and communications freezes that have made it difficult for researchers to access resources and collaborate with colleagues. Many scientists fear that these policies are driving them to seek opportunities overseas or abandon academic research altogether.
“The current political climate is alarming,” said Carl Bergstrom, a biology professor. “There’s a fire sale on American academics right now.”
Despite the challenges, some scientists have found innovative solutions to address their needs. A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that people with alcohol-use disorder who took the medication Ozempic reported reduced cravings for drinking and decreased consumption.
In other news, the US is leaving the World Health Organization (WHO), which could impact the production of flu vaccines next year. The WHO’s leadership plays a crucial role in determining which specific influenza viruses to target for future vaccines.
Meanwhile, a new study suggests that people with treatment-resistant psychotic disorders like schizophrenia have found relief from the medication clozapine. If the FDA follows an advisory panel’s recommendation to remove requirements for tracking clozapine patients, it could be a major step forward for mental health care.
Source: https://www.statnews.com/2025/02/13/health-news-ozempic-and-drinking-flu-shot-who-brain-drain-trump-orders-morning-rounds