$8 Medicare and Medicaid fraud; waist size better than BMI for predicting obesity-related cancer in men; health effects of 9 months in space – Morning Medical Update

Three convicted in $8 million Medicare and Medicaid fraud scheme

A Kentucky doctor, a Texas businessman, and a Kentucky billing manager were convicted of fraudulently billing more than $8 million to Medicare and Medicaid through opioid addiction treatment clinics in Kentucky. Operating under Kentucky Addiction Centers, they billed for unprovided services, used a deceased doctor’s identity for prescriptions, and misrepresented treatment complexity. The convictions include charges of health care fraud, identity theft and unlawful distribution of controlled substances. Sentencing is scheduled for June, with each facing significant prison time.

Waist size better than BMI for predicting obesity-related cancer in men

A Swedish study of over 339,000 people found that waist circumference (WC) is a stronger predictor of obesity-related cancers in men than body mass index (BMI), but not in women. Men with an 11 cm larger waist had a 25% higher cancer risk, while a similar BMI increase raised risk by 19%. In women, WC and BMI had similar effects. The study suggests that visceral fat — which is more common in men — may explain WC’s stronger link to cancer.

Health effects of 9 months in space

NASA astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Sunita “Suni” Williams returned to Earth last week after an unplanned nine-month stay aboard the International Space Station, facing significant physiological and psychological challenges. Originally, they were only supposed to spend about one week in space.

Prolonged exposure to microgravity leads to muscle atrophy, bone density loss, and fluid shifts that can affect vision and brain function. Increased radiation exposure raises long-term cancer risks, while extended isolation impacts mental health and immune function. As they readapt to Earth’s gravity, medical teams will focus on restoring their balance, strength and overall well-being. ABC News has more.