UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Washington leads with a lenient policy allowing pharmacists to prescribe mifepristone for abortion, with a pilot showing 43 patients received prescriptions. Other states may follow, despite 15 having restrictions. Washington's approach requires only doctor-approved protocols and training, with no serious negative outcomes reported.

The Pharmacy Abortion Access Project in Washington state enabled 10 pharmacists to prescribe abortion pills to 43 patients, marking a pioneering effort to expand access. This initiative, supported by abortion rights advocates, follows FDA's relaxed regulations on mifepristone and misoprostol. Despite opposition from anti-abortion groups, the program aims to simplify access to medication abortion, leveraging pharmacists' accessibility and trust.

A 2020 study in *Nature Medicine* found sugar-sweetened beverages caused 9.8% of type 2 diabetes and 3.1% of cardiovascular disease cases globally. Consumption varied by region, with Latin America and the Caribbean most affected. Men and younger individuals consumed more. The study highlights the global health impact of these beverages.

The global DNA sequencing market, valued at USD 14.95 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 106.20 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 21.66%. Growth drivers include advancements in next-generation sequencing, personalized treatments, and reduced costs. Key segments include consumables, services, next-generation sequencing, oncology, and academic research, with North America leading the market.

Denali Therapeutics developed a novel delivery system, the oligonucleotide transport vehicle (OTV), enabling antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to cross the blood-brain barrier effectively. This method offers a less invasive, more uniform distribution of ASOs in the brain, promising for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Clinical trials are anticipated within 12-18 months.

Sugary drinks caused 2.2 million type 2 diabetes cases globally in 2020, with the UK seeing over 16% of its cases linked to them. These drinks also contributed to 11,000 UK cardiovascular disease cases. Researchers urge aggressive measures to reduce consumption, including advertising restrictions and higher sugar taxes.

Rapamycin, a drug initially for organ transplant patients, shows promise in extending lifespan and slowing aging in mice, sparking interest for human anti-aging use. Despite enthusiasm, its efficacy and safety for longevity remain uncertain, with experts advising caution until more research is available.

Teva Pharmaceuticals partners with Watson Health to repurpose drugs for chronic conditions, leveraging AI for faster discovery. NovioSense advances diabetes care with a tear glucose sensor. University of Washington researchers restore touch sensation in paralysis patients using neural bypass technology.

A study links sugar-sweetened beverages to 9.8% of type 2 diabetes and 3.1% of cardiovascular disease cases globally in 2020. Consumption varies by region, with Latin America and the Caribbean most affected. Men and younger individuals consume more. Public policies and individual actions are suggested to reduce intake.