What We’re Reading: Biden’s FY 2024 Proposed Budget; Nasal Spray for Migraine Approved; New FDA Guidelines for Mammogram Providers

HHS Releases President’s 2024 Proposed Budget

HHS released the president’s budget for the department for fiscal year 2024, detailing plans by the administration to lower costs for families, protect and strengthen Medicare and Social Security, and reduce America's deficit. The proposed budget includes $144.3 billion in discretionary funding and $1.7 trillion in mandatory funding. Key components of this proposal include extending Medicare solvency by at least 25 years and lowering drug costs; expanding access to health care; ensuring nationwide public health preparedness to respond to health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic; mental health support, especially among LGBTQI+ youth and Spanish speakers; improving the well-being of children and seniors; advancing scientific knowledge to improve lives; and expanding the health care workforce.

FDA Approves Pfizer Nasal Spray for Migraine

The FDA approved Pfizer’s new nasal spray for migraine, with or without aura, according to Reuters. Zavegepant (Zavzpret) belongs to the calcitonin gene-related peptide inhibitor class and aims to deliver fast-acting pain relief. The price of the drug will be revealed at its launch in July, with prices estimated to be competitive with similar therapies manufactured by other companies, such as AbbVie Inc, Eli Lilly and Co, Amgen Inc, and Teva Pharmaceutical.

FDA Guidelines May Help Women Detect Breast Cancer Earlier

New rules set by the FDA will require mammogram providers to notify patients if they have dense breast tissue and recommend they follow up with a doctor for additional screening, according to NBC News. Although having dense breasts is very common among women, it also increases the risk of getting breast cancer, according to the CDC, with extra tissue and fat making it difficult for providers to detect early stages of breast cancer. The FDA expects the new guidelines will be implemented within the next 18 months as a new standard for mammogram providers nationwide.