Women know more than men about obesity drugs; FDA bans most industry employees from advisory committees; $134 million ACA fraud – Morning Medical Update

Women far more informed on obesity drugs, UK study finds

Women are significantly more aware of and knowledgeable about GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists compared to men, according to a new UK survey to be presented at the European Congress on Obesity. Among 1,297 adults surveyed, 87% of women reported awareness versus 68% of men, and women were more than twice as likely to report excellent understanding. Side effects, effectiveness, and the ability to maintain weight loss were key factors in deciding to use the medications, while safety concerns and fear of regaining weight were common barriers.

FDA bans most industry employees from advisory committees

In a move to reduce perceived conflicts of interest, FDA Commissioner Martin Makary, MD, MPH, announced a new policy limiting employees of FDA-regulated companies — such as drug and device makers — from serving as official members on FDA advisory committees. The agency will instead elevate patient and caregiver voices, part of a broader push for “radical transparency” under HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Industry representatives can still attend or present at meetings, but their formal membership will be restricted, with rare exceptions.

Florida exec pleads guilty in $134M ACA fraud

A Florida insurance executive admitted to orchestrating a $133.9 million scheme that exploited the Affordable Care Act by enrolling ineligible individuals — many facing homelessness or substance use disorders — into subsidized health plans to collect commissions. Prosecutors say Dafud Iza and his co-conspirators falsified income data, bribed applicants, and coached them to secure government subsidies. He faces up to 10 years in prison.