What We’re Reading: Tirzepatide Outperforms Semaglutide; STDs Continue to Rise Among Older Adults; Nearly Half of US Counties Lack Cardiologist

Tirzepatide Surpasses Semaglutide in Weight Loss, Diabetes Management

A recent study analyzed more than 18,000 adults who were overweight or had obesity and found that tirzepatide users experienced more significant weight loss than those taking semaglutide, according to CNN. After 1 year, 82% of tirzepatide users lost at least 5% of their starting weight compared with 67% of semaglutide users, with 42% achieving 15% weight loss vs 18% for semaglutide. Full results were published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

STD Diagnoses Continue to Surge Among Older Adults

Recent data reveal a 4.8% rise in sexually transmitted disease (STD) diagnoses from 2020 to 2023, with those 65 years and older experiencing a 23.8% increase, according to The Hill. Syphilis saw the largest jump across all age groups, with a 29% rise in diagnoses. The only age group to see a decline in STD diagnoses were those 24 years and younger.

Millions of Individuals Live in Cardiology Deserts

A new study reveals that 46.3% of US counties lack a practicing cardiologist, with most of these counties being rural and having higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors, according to NBC News. This shortage has forced residents to travel long distances for heart care, exacerbating health disparities. Therefore, researchers emphasize the need for telemedicine and expanded broadband to bridge this critical health care gap.