Health

Health
Twin Cities seniors picket Blue Cross and Blue Shield over cuts to SilverSneakers gym program
Steve Brandt organized the picket and told Morning Edition’s Cathy Wurzer why losing access to local SilverSneakers gym benefits is such a hit to his well-being.
University of Minnesota researchers say hepatitis B vaccine safe for babies, despite federal concern
A report from the University of Minnesota’s Vaccine Integrity Project maintains the recommendation for newborn hepatitis B vaccination. This contradicts arguments from Trump administration health advisors like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. who may recommend a vaccine delay later this month.
COVID-19 pandemic narrowed health care industry pay gap, new study finds
A new study finds that the COVID-19 pandemic narrowed the wage gap between high and low paid workers in the health care industry, as the lowest earners saw the biggest boost in pay in the years since the pandemic began.
Minnesota’s paid leave law: What you need to know about the 2026 launch
MPR News host and politics editor Brian Bakst talks about what employers and workers should do to get ready for Minnesota’s paid family and medical leave program that starts next month.
FDA to raise hurdles for vaccines, faulting COVID shots for 10 kids’ deaths
Food and Drug Administration officials say they will ratchet up requirements for vaccine studies, citing concerns about COVID shots for kids. But public health experts question the agency’s analysis.
What a federal ban on THC-infused drinks and snacks could mean for the hemp industry
THC-infused drinks and snacks have soared in popularity as alcohol sales have declined in recent years. But the bill that ended the federal government shutdown this month includes a provision to ban THC products derived from hemp. The $24 billion industry is now scrambling to save itself before the ban takes effect a year from now. 
5 things to know about the new obesity pills that are on the way
Instead of struggling with weekly injections, patients may soon be able to swallow a daily pill to lose weight. Both the makers of Wegovy and Mounjaro are seeking FDA approval for tablets.