How Fasting May Reshape Metabolism and Activate Immune Defenses Against Cancer

Research has found that cancer patients can reshape metabolism and accelerate cancer cell death (apoptosis) by simulating fasting for five days alongside regular treatment. Radiation oncologist Liao Zhiying noted on NTDTV's 'Health 1+1' program that intermittent fasting or simulated fasting can activate the body's antitumor immunity and weaken the survival capability of cancer cells, which has potential in cancer prevention and as a complementary treatment.
How Diet Can Strengthen Immune Cell Function
To support their rapid growth, cancer cells consume a large amount of glucose and generate energy through anaerobic respiration, but they also rely on nutrients such as fatty acids and amino acids. Therefore, Liao suggested that adjusting the diet to influence metabolism could be a feasible strategy. Even though it might not be able to completely block cancer cells from obtaining sugar, fatty acids, and proteins—because these are also nutrients required by normal cells—modifying the proportion, content, and timing of the diet can help the body activate its own defense mechanism.
During dietary adjustments that limit energy supply, normal cells have the ability to undergo cellular breakdown or autophagy—a process that allows cells to clean out waste and repair themselves. These are especially beneficial attributes for enhancing immune cell function. In contrast, cancer cells are more susceptible to damage because of problems with their mitochondria—the parts of cells that produce energy—and they cannot adapt easily to metabolic stress, making them more likely to be eliminated during chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy.

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• Yahoo

Muscle-preserving drugs could generate over $30 billion in sales by 2035, TD Cowen says

By Bhanvi Satija (Reuters) -Treatments designed to help patients preserve muscle while losing weight with popular obesity drugs by Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk could generate more than $30 billion in sales by 2035, analysts at TD Cowen said on Friday. About a dozen companies are racing to develop such therapies, most of which are being tested in combination with Lilly's Zepbound or Novo's Wegovy, both of which target the GLP-1 protein to help control appetite. The initial Wall Street estimates for muscle-preserving therapies follow promising mid-stage results from experimental drugs developed by Regeneron and Scholar Rock. Investors are closely watching mid-stage data from Lilly's muscle mass-preserving drug, bimagrumab, which is scheduled for presentation at a medical conference next week. Analysts have projected that obesity drugs sales could reach $150 billion a year by the early 2030s. The unmet need to preserve muscle will grow with the use of GLP-1 drugs for obesity, said TD Cowen analyst Tyler Van Buren. Doctors have raised concerns that patients may experience a decrease in overall strength due to muscle loss associated with Zepbound and Wegovy, while experts suggest that more muscle can help patients maintain long-term weight loss. Van Buren said that the first such treatment could launch by 2028, although regulatory challenges remain because these treatments must demonstrate additional health benefits to secure approval. "We believe quality of weight loss and lean mass preservation ... is far too important for long-term health outcomes to be ignored and that this will be figured out," Van Buren said. Some of the new drugs target the myostatin protein, which is associated with muscle growth, and are expected to see broader use due to their superior safety profile, capturing the majority of the market share, Van Buren said. Other drugs target activin, a protein with multiple biological functions. Van Buren said that activin-based drugs will be reserved for patients at higher risk of losing strength, forecasting sales of about $5 billion by 2035. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

Business Upturn

21 hours ago

• Business Upturn

HealthRX Expands Telehealth Website Experience to Include GLP-1 Weight Loss Solutions, Prescription Access, and 24/7 Wellness Support

BROOKLYN, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HealthRX, a digital health platform serving adults across the United States, has announced an expanded online experience designed to support weight management and long-term wellness through a suite of integrated offerings. These include Health RX Telehealth™, Health RX Prescription Access™, and Health RX Wellness Support™, all accessible through its newly enhanced website at The update provides streamlined access to GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic®, Zepbound®, and compounded alternatives—subject to eligibility criteria and clinical discretion. The HealthRX platform is built to accommodate adults who are seeking a secure, doctor-supervised weight management option that minimizes barriers to care and supports routine-friendly wellness. A Digital Health Platform Designed for Results HealthRX offers a simplified path for adults to explore medically appropriate weight loss options from the comfort of home. Through the HealthRX intake process, users can connect with U.S.-licensed physicians to determine clinical eligibility for GLP-1 medications. The program emphasizes convenience and flexibility, removing the need for in-person consultations or insurance requirements. The platform's design integrates: Health RX Telehealth™ – Secure access to virtual consultations with board-certified physicians. – Secure access to virtual consultations with board-certified physicians. Health RX Prescription Access™ – Direct, encrypted coordination with pharmacies for prescription fulfillment and renewals. – Direct, encrypted coordination with pharmacies for prescription fulfillment and renewals. Health RX Wellness Support™ – A collection of tools including coaching support, educational resources, medication reminders, and outcome tracking. Each service is built to align with common adult health goals—particularly those related to sustained weight management. Full details are available on the official HealthRX website at Highlight on GLP-1 Medication Access: Ozempic®, Zepbound®, and Tirzepatide Options GLP-1 medications have emerged as a physician-supervised option for individuals managing obesity or weight-related conditions. HealthRX facilitates access to FDA-approved GLP-1 treatments such as Ozempic®, Zepbound®, and Tirzepatide®, as well as compounded GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP medications based on clinical suitability. These medications work by targeting appetite regulation and glucose control pathways and are prescribed in accordance with FDA labeling or compound-specific clinical judgment. The HealthRX platform outlines potential usage scenarios, average pricing tiers, and expected timelines for prescription delivery—all while emphasizing that outcomes vary by individual. For medication access information, visit HealthRX also confirms that compounded medications offered through the platform are prepared in U.S.-based facilities in accordance with USP <795> and <797> standards. The company notes that compounded drug products are not FDA-approved, and eligibility is determined during the virtual consultation process with a licensed provider. Three-Step Process Designed for Accessibility Visitors to the website are guided through a simple three-step intake process: Take the Assessment – Users begin by completing a short clinical questionnaire to determine preliminary eligibility. Meet a Board-Certified Physician – Within 24 hours, eligible users are connected to a licensed medical provider for an evaluation. Receive Medication – Upon approval, GLP-1 prescriptions are delivered securely to the patient's door with ongoing support available. This process is designed to make adult wellness and weight loss support accessible without long wait times, insurance hassles, or frequent office visits. A full description is provided at Pricing and Support Structure As listed on the platform: Ozempic® (Brand GLP-1) – $1,299/month (In Stock) – $1,299/month (In Stock) Tirzepatide® (GLP-1 + GIP) – $1,299/month (Limited Stock) – $1,299/month (Limited Stock) GLP-1 Injections (Compounded) – $189/month (Low Stock) – $189/month (Low Stock) GLP-1 Oral Tablets (Compounded) – $239/month (Low Stock) – $239/month (Low Stock) GLP-1 + GIP Injection (Compounded) – $349/month (In Stock) Pricing reflects bundled services that include medical evaluation, platform access, prescription coordination, and support. Details and plan tiers are explained at Transparent Clinical Oversight All HealthRX-affiliated physicians are U.S.-licensed and board-certified in relevant specialties such as internal medicine, emergency care, osteopathic medicine, and family medicine. Provider credentials and bios are available through the HealthRX platform. HealthRX confirms that all consultations, messaging, and record keeping are conducted through encrypted channels in compliance with HIPAA regulations. Privacy and user consent policies are explained at Health RX Wellness Support™ Adds a Preventive Layer Health RX Wellness Support™ complements prescription and telehealth services by offering educational and lifestyle tools, including: Digital health journals and medication tracking Reminder alerts for check-ins and prescription refills Curated content on nutrition, movement, and self-care Access to secure provider messaging These tools aim to reinforce adherence and increase long-term success for adults pursuing medically guided weight loss. More about the support program can be found at Verified Customer Experiences HealthRX highlights verified user reviews collected by third-party platforms: 'Signing up took less than five minutes, and the process was clear.' 'The support staff answered every question. I already feel healthier.' 'After starting the treatment, I received my delivery within 48 hours.' Individual experiences are unique, and HealthRX maintains a strict no-guarantee policy regarding outcomes. Additional testimonials and review information are linked from Platform Policies and Consumer Disclosures HealthRX outlines its key platform policies, including: No charge if a user does not qualify Cancellation is available anytime without penalties Refunds are processed within 24–48 hours if eligibility is not met Insurance is not required but may be used independently for reimbursement These policies are detailed in the platform's Terms of Service and FAQ sections at About HealthRX HealthRX is a U.S.-based virtual healthcare platform offering GLP-1-based weight management, online prescription access, and ongoing support through secure telehealth services. The platform includes Health RX Telehealth™, Health RX Prescription Access™, and Health RX Wellness Support™, designed to provide adults with personalized, remote wellness strategies. HealthRX is not a healthcare provider itself, but coordinates licensed services through verified clinical partners. More about the HealthRX platform can be found at Product and Contact Information Products and Services: Health RX Telehealth™ Health RX Prescription Access™ Health RX Wellness Support™ GLP-1 Medications: Ozempic®, Zepbound®, Tirzepatide®, Compounded Options Website: Contact Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 (208) 494-2534 Disclaimer This release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary. Consumers should consult a licensed medical provider for personalized recommendations. HealthRX does not guarantee eligibility, outcomes, or medication access. GLP-1 medications may cause serious side effects, including possible thyroid tumors. Do not use if you or a family member have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2. Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved, and their safety and effectiveness have not been evaluated by the FDA. HealthRX does not manufacture, prescribe, or dispense medication directly. All services are provided through licensed third parties. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash

Boston Globe

a day ago

• Boston Globe

Trump travel restrictions bar residents needed at US hospitals

'If international medical graduates can't start their medical residencies on time on July 1, the ramifications are so far-reaching that it is really unconscionable,' said Kimberly Pierce Burke, executive director of the Alliance of Independent Academic Medical Centers. Senior residents leave hospitals in June and go on to start their careers, she noted. Hospitals rely on new residents to replenish their ranks. 'If they don't come on July 1, that leaves a hole in the patient care team,' Burke said. 'Who's going to pick up the slack?' Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up On May 27, the Trump administration suspended new interview appointments for foreign nationals applying for J-1 visas. The visas, for participants in cultural or educational exchange programs, are used by most medical residents arriving from overseas. Advertisement On Wednesday, the State Department lifted the pause on visa appointments, according to an official who spoke anonymously to discuss an internal policy change. It was not immediately clear how many, or how quickly, physicians could be granted their visas. The process now includes 'enhanced social media vetting,' intended to ferret out potential security risks, the official said. The administration also has banned or restricted travel to the United States from 19 countries. The restrictions may be extended to an additional 36 countries, including many African nations, if they do not comply with U.S. demands regarding overstayed visas and security concerns. Advertisement The bans and restrictions were motivated by a commitment 'to protecting our nation and its citizens by upholding the highest standard of national security and public safety through our visa process,' the State Department official said. Foreign doctors from countries covered by the bans and other restrictions could request a 'national interest exception,' according to the State Department. It was not immediately clear how that process would unfold. The American medical system relies heavily on physicians from other countries. One in five U.S. physicians was born and educated overseas, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. New doctors from other countries account for 1 in 6 medical residents and specializing fellows at U.S. teaching hospitals. In 2024, the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates sponsored more than 15,500 doctors from more than 150 countries to fill residency or fellowship training spots at 770 hospitals. Related : Residents are new medical school graduates who complete their training by working for several years under the supervision of more experienced doctors, gaining experience and acquiring the skills needed for various specialties. They work up to 80 hours a week on average, earning relatively low salaries. Residents are the foot soldiers of hospitals, critical to their operations, said Dr. Douglas DeLong, a semiretired physician in upstate New York who has worked in academic training programs. 'If you're a patient in a hospital, the resident is the first doctor you see in the morning,' DeLong said. Many foreign medical residents stay and build their careers in the United States. Most go into primary care fields such as internal medicine, family medicine and pediatrics, areas of shortage that American medical graduates tend to avoid. Advertisement Many of the 6,653 noncitizen doctors accepted for residency positions in the United States this year had already secured visa appointments before May 27. Those from banned countries who are already in the country are able to remain. But an estimated 1,000 medical residents were not able to obtain visas allowing them to work in the United States. The vacancies will have disparate effects on hospitals, depending how heavily reliant they are on foreign medical talent. At Brookdale Hospital Medical Center in the Brooklyn borough of New York City, people queued up for emergency care Monday. The lobby thrummed with visitors clutching bouquets of roses, and patients nodded off on benches, waiting to be seen. Like many hospitals in underserved communities, Brookdale relies heavily on international medical graduates who are not U.S. citizens to staff the medical and pediatrics floors and outpatient clinics. 'It's a wait-and-watch situation,' Dr. Christos Paras, who oversees the residency program, said in an interview. 'We just don't know what the impact will be.' 'We have residents from literally all over the world,' he added. 'I am not exaggerating — every continent.' Brookdale's internal medicine residency program relies on foreign medical graduates to staff about 90% of its 55 positions. So far, two noncitizens have been blocked from entering the country, said Dr. Conrad Fischer, director of the program. 'If I am missing two or three people, I can go out and get the spots filled,' Fischer added. 'But next year, we're not talking about missing two or three — we're talking about missing thousands.' Advertisement If the travel restrictions are maintained, 'it would gut the program,' he said. Dr. Christos Paras, who oversees Brookdale's residency program, at the hospital on Monday. Paras said that Brookdale doesn't know "what the impact will be" on Trump's travel ban. NICOLE CRAINE/NYT Hospitals and clinics in rural areas of the country already struggle to recruit graduates of U.S. medical schools to their residency programs. They rely heavily on international graduates. New foreign doctors are not taking residency positions away from American medical school graduates. Just the opposite: This year, there were about 40,000 residency positions offered through the national match system, but only 28,000 graduates of U.S. medical schools. Foreign residents fill a crucial labor shortage. Hospitals are not allowed to overwork residents and may lose their accreditation as medical teaching institutions if they do. An insufficient number of residents could also cost them Medicare funds tied to graduate medical education. The noncitizen international medical graduates who make it to U.S. training programs are 'well-trained, well-qualified and motivated,' DeLong said. 'This is the new generation of physicians for Americans,' he added. 'These are the physicians who will take care of us as we age. They are the future of medicine.' This article originally appeared in .