What We’re Reading: Combatting Cyberattacks; Anxiety Linked to Increased Dementia; Ozempic Compound Dosing Errors

Biden Administration Revamps Health IT Bureaucracy to Combat Cyberattacks and AI Challenges

In response to the increasing frequency of cyberattacks and the growing role of data and artificial intelligence (AI) in medical settings, the Biden administration is revamping its health IT infrastructure, according to Axios. Key objectives include establishing an AI policy and strategy for HHS and consolidating critical infrastructure protection under the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). This overhaul aims to streamline cybersecurity practices within the health industry, addressing vulnerabilities highlighted by significant incidents such as the Change Healthcare cyberattack and the CrowdStrike internet meltdown.

Chronic Anxiety Increases Dementia Risk, Underscoring Need for Early Anxiety Management

Chronic anxiety can nearly triple the risk of developing dementia, according to CNN. This research is the first to examine the long-term impact of different severities and timing of anxiety on dementia risk, highlighting the critical need for early and consistent anxiety management to mitigate future dementia risk. Experts agree that addressing anxiety through lifestyle changes, therapy, and appropriate medications can help reduce this risk, providing justifiable reason for early intervention.

FDA Issues Warning on Ozempic Compounded Versions After Reports of Severe Dosing Errors

The FDA has issued a warning to health care providers and patients regarding dosing errors with compounded versions of Novo Nordisk's weight-loss drug semaglutide (Ozempic), according to Forbes. The agency received reports of patients taking up to 20 times the prescribed dosage, leading to adverse events such as nausea, abdominal pain, and acute pancreatitis. Many incidents were attributed to patients' unfamiliarity with measuring doses using syringes and health care providers prescribing incorrect doses. Compounded drugs, which are not FDA-approved, have also been found to contain unsafe ingredients.