Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

The mRNA Vaccine Beat COVID And Could Cure Cancer—So Why Has RFK Jr Defunded It?

Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technology saved millions during the COVID-19 pandemic. It brought unprecedented speed, precision, and adaptability that allowed shots from Pfizer and Moderna to roll out in record time. Now, that same platform is at a crossroads: scientists are leveraging its power to develop vaccines and therapies for everything from cancer to cystic fibrosis. But this week, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—a vocal critic of vaccines—announced the cancellation of $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine research targeting respiratory illnesses, igniting fierce backlash among public health leaders.

In a video posted to X on August 5, RFK Jr. revealed that BARDA (the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority) would terminate 22 mRNA vaccine projects and shift focus toward whole-virus vaccine platforms. He argued mRNA technology was “ineffective” against mutable respiratory viruses and claimed it posed more risks than benefits—a stance sharply criticized by public health experts.

Experts have been unified in raising concerns, calling the move a “huge strategic misstep,” warning it weakens the U.S. pandemic defense and labeling it “one of the most dangerous decisions in public health” that he’d ever seen. The shift, critics say, undermines preparedness and sacrifices the adaptability that made mRNA a global game-changer.

Traditional vaccines typically rely on growing whole viruses or viral proteins in eggs or cell cultures, a process that can take months—sometimes up to 18 months—to produce sufficient doses for global inoculation. mRNA bypasses this bottleneck by delivering synthetic messenger RNA into cells, instructing them to produce a harmless viral protein. This trains the immune system to recognize and fight the real virus.

The “m” in mRNA stands for “messenger,” reflecting how the molecule carries instructions. Researchers craft a synthetic snippet in the lab, inject it, and the body becomes its own vaccine factory. This rapid, flexible process gives scientists both speed and precision unmatched by older methods.

<h2>How mRNA Help Build Effective <span rel="noindex">COVID</span> Vaccines?</h2>

Protection from mRNA vaccines—and all vaccines, really—wanes over time. That’s due to waning immunity and virus mutations. Still, the strongest defense remains prevention of hospitalization and death. The advantage of mRNA lies in how quickly vaccines can be updated. This capability helps scientists stay a step ahead of viral drift, especially for flu and COVID variants.

mRNA isn’t just for stopping infections—it’s a Trojan horse for therapies against existing diseases. Scientists are testing mRNA-based therapeutic vaccines for cancers like pancreatic and melanoma. They’re also designing inhaled mRNA treatments for genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis. Unlike traditional approaches, these therapies aim to teach the body to restore missing proteins or directly activate immune systems to eliminate abnormal cells.

Some of the most compelling work is happening in personalized oncology. Researchers can now sequence a patient’s tumor mutations and design mRNA that encodes those unique markers—training the immune system to attack only the cancerous cells. Moderna’s mRNA‑4157/V940, paired with pembrolizumab in melanoma trials, has shown improved recurrence-free survival. BioNTech similarly uses personalized neoantigen panels to reduce relapse.

<h2>Why Future Pandemic Preparedness Hinges on mRNA?</h2>

Take flu pandemics, for example. Traditional egg-based production takes more than a year to scale—and may only reach 25% of the world’s population. mRNA platforms, however, could vaccinate nearly everyone in a similar timeframe. That speed is critical if the next pandemic emerges. Cutting off mRNA infrastructure now risks prolonging future crises.

From a policy standpoint, mRNA is not just another vaccine method—it’s a strategic asset. When new viruses emerge or existing ones mutate, response speed matters more than strength. Waiting months—or worse, years—to catch up can cost lives. Michael Osterholm and others note that global mRNA capacity could avert prolonged pandemics. Shifting resources away from it now diminishes that capability.

But it’s more than pandemic preparedness. mRNA’s adaptability has ignited a renaissance in RNA biology—from tumor vaccines to genetic therapies. Pulling back research support risks stalling a new generation of treatments already in motion. This isn’t just about one technology; it’s about whether the U.S. wants to lead—or fall behind—in a platform that’s shaping modern medicine.

<h2>Will COVID-19 Vaccines Still Be Accessible?</h2>

Yes, COVID-19 vaccines will still be accessible despite the recent decision to cut funding for future mRNA research projects. The mRNA-based vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are already approved by the FDA and continue to be manufactured and distributed widely across the U.S. These vaccines have become a mainstay in the country’s public health strategy, and that’s not going away any time soon.

The announcement from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to cancel nearly $500 million in federal research funding impacts new and developing mRNA projects—not the existing COVID-19 vaccine programs already in place. The vaccines currently in circulation are produced by private pharmaceutical companies, and they aren’t dependent on government funding to continue manufacturing or distributing updated boosters.

Additionally, global pharmaceutical efforts to develop next-generation mRNA vaccines are still in motion. Many companies are continuing to explore and invest in mRNA platforms for not only COVID-19 but also for flu, RSV, and other infectious diseases. So while Kennedy’s move may slow down innovation in the U.S. public sector, it does not mean COVID-19 vaccines will disappear or suddenly become inaccessible.

In short, if you’re wondering whether you’ll still be able to get your annual COVID booster—yes, you will.

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Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technology saved millions during the COVID-19 pandemic. It brought unprecedented speed, precision, and adaptability that allowed shots from Pfizer and Moderna to roll out in record time. Now, that same platform is at a crossroads: scientists are leveraging its power to develop vaccines and therapies for everything from cancer to cystic fibrosis. But this week, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—a vocal critic of vaccines—announced the cancellation of $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine research targeting respiratory illnesses, igniting fierce backlash among public health leaders.In a video posted to X on August 5, RFK Jr. revealed that BARDA (the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority) would terminate 22 mRNA vaccine projects and shift focus toward whole-virus vaccine platforms. He argued mRNA technology was “ineffective” against mutable respiratory viruses and claimed it posed more risks than benefits—a stance sharply criticized by public health experts.Experts have been unified in raising concerns, calling the move a “huge strategic misstep,” warning it weakens the U.S. pandemic defense and labeling it “one of the most dangerous decisions in public health” that he’d ever seen. The shift, critics say, undermines preparedness and sacrifices the adaptability that made mRNA a global game-changer.How mRNA Vaccines Works?Traditional vaccines typically rely on growing whole viruses or viral proteins in eggs or cell cultures, a process that can take months—sometimes up to 18 months—to produce sufficient doses for global inoculation. mRNA bypasses this bottleneck by delivering synthetic messenger RNA into cells, instructing them to produce a harmless viral protein. This trains the immune system to recognize and fight the real virus.The “m” in mRNA stands for “messenger,” reflecting how the molecule carries instructions. Researchers craft a synthetic snippet in the lab, inject it, and the body becomes its own vaccine factory. This rapid, flexible process gives scientists both speed and precision unmatched by older methods.How mRNA Help Build Effective COVID Vaccines?Protection from mRNA vaccines—and all vaccines, really—wanes over time. That’s due to waning immunity and virus mutations. Still, the strongest defense remains prevention of hospitalization and death. The advantage of mRNA lies in how quickly vaccines can be updated. This capability helps scientists stay a step ahead of viral drift, especially for flu and COVID variants.mRNA isn’t just for stopping infections—it’s a Trojan horse for therapies against existing diseases. Scientists are testing mRNA-based therapeutic vaccines for cancers like pancreatic and melanoma. They’re also designing inhaled mRNA treatments for genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis. Unlike traditional approaches, these therapies aim to teach the body to restore missing proteins or directly activate immune systems to eliminate abnormal cells.Could mRNA Cure Cancer Too?Some of the most compelling work is happening in personalized oncology. Researchers can now sequence a patient’s tumor mutations and design mRNA that encodes those unique markers—training the immune system to attack only the cancerous cells. Moderna’s mRNA‑4157/V940, paired with pembrolizumab in melanoma trials, has shown improved recurrence-free survival. BioNTech similarly uses personalized neoantigen panels to reduce relapse.Why Future Pandemic Preparedness Hinges on mRNA?Take flu pandemics, for example. Traditional egg-based production takes more than a year to scale—and may only reach 25% of the world’s population. mRNA platforms, however, could vaccinate nearly everyone in a similar timeframe. That speed is critical if the next pandemic emerges. Cutting off mRNA infrastructure now risks prolonging future crises.From a policy standpoint, mRNA is not just another vaccine method—it’s a strategic asset. When new viruses emerge or existing ones mutate, response speed matters more than strength. Waiting months—or worse, years—to catch up can cost lives. Michael Osterholm and others note that global mRNA capacity could avert prolonged pandemics. Shifting resources away from it now diminishes that capability.But it’s more than pandemic preparedness. mRNA’s adaptability has ignited a renaissance in RNA biology—from tumor vaccines to genetic therapies. Pulling back research support risks stalling a new generation of treatments already in motion. This isn’t just about one technology; it’s about whether the U.S. wants to lead—or fall behind—in a platform that’s shaping modern medicine.Will COVID-19 Vaccines Still Be Accessible?Yes, COVID-19 vaccines will still be accessible despite the recent decision to cut funding for future mRNA research projects. The mRNA-based vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are already approved by the FDA and continue to be manufactured and distributed widely across the U.S. These vaccines have become a mainstay in the country’s public health strategy, and that’s not going away any time soon.The announcement from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to cancel nearly $500 million in federal research funding impacts new and developing mRNA projects—not the existing COVID-19 vaccine programs already in place. The vaccines currently in circulation are produced by private pharmaceutical companies, and they aren’t dependent on government funding to continue manufacturing or distributing updated boosters.Additionally, global pharmaceutical efforts to develop next-generation mRNA vaccines are still in motion. Many companies are continuing to explore and invest in mRNA platforms for not only COVID-19 but also for flu, RSV, and other infectious diseases. So while Kennedy’s move may slow down innovation in the U.S. public sector, it does not mean COVID-19 vaccines will disappear or suddenly become inaccessible.In short, if you’re wondering whether you’ll still be able to get your annual COVID booster—yes, you will.

the mrna vaccine beat covid and could cure cancer—so why has rfk jr defunded it?

Ishita Roy

As RFK Jr Cracks Down On 7-OH, A Washington Family Issues Warning Against Kratom As Their Son Dies After Taking The OTC Supplement

Health & Wellness

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The 'Nicki Minaj Challenge' Left Russian Influencer With A Fractured Spine: Why Social Media Trends Could Be Detrimental To Your Health?

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In a tragic case that has reignited scrutiny over unregulated herbal supplements, a family from Washington state is sounding the alarm on <span>kratom</span>, a substance often sold as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals, after their 37-year-old son, Jordan McKibban, died from using it. 

Their warning comes just as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr announces a federal crackdown on a powerful compound derived from kratom known as 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH.

Kratom is a plant-based product derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in countries like Thailand and Malaysia for pain relief and energy boosts, it has in recent years gained popularity in the U.S. as an over-the-counter supplement. It's sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and online in various forms, powders, pills, teas, and even gummies.

At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, while at higher doses it behaves like a sedative. However, experts warn that kratom has addictive properties, and its effects can mirror those of opioids. It is not regulated by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), and while it is legal in many parts of the U.S., the agency has described it as a “drug of concern.”

<h4>What is 7-OH and How Is It Related?</h4>

7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a naturally occurring compound found in kratom, and it is far more potent. While kratom itself contains a mixture of alkaloids, 7-OH is an isolated extract or concentrated form that interacts with the body’s opioid receptors much more strongly.

Medical experts say 7-OH can be more potent than morphine. “7-OH is an opioid that can be more potent than morphine,” FDA Commissioner Martin Makary recently stated. The FDA has proposed that 7-OH be classified as an illicit substance, citing rising concerns over its addictive potential and opioid-like effects.

Jordan McKibban, according to his mother Pam Mauldin, was cautious about pharmaceutical medications and sought alternative solutions for managing anxiety and other health concerns. On the day of his death in 2022, he mixed kratom into his lemonade, a routine he had reportedly followed before.

Mauldin found her son unconscious and was unable to revive him. An autopsy later confirmed that his death was linked to mitragynine, one of kratom’s primary alkaloids.

“There have been hundreds of people killed from this, and they don’t pull it. The government doesn’t step in,” Mauldin told The New York Post. “I’ve lost my son. I’ve lost the grandchildren I could have had. I’ve lost watching him walk down the aisle.”

She added that the kratom packages in her son’s possession had no dosage instructions or warning labels, a dangerous loophole that remains common due to the lack of FDA regulation.

<h4><span rel="noindex">RFK Jr</span>’s Crackdown on 7-OH</h4>

Speaking at a July 29 press conference, Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jr shared his personal experience with <span>addiction</span>, stating that the easy availability of kratom products, many sold at gas stations and marketed in child-friendly formats like gummy bears, is “a sinister, sinister industry.”

Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Makary announced they were beginning the process to classify 7-OH as an illicit drug. The move, if approved by the DEA, would restrict sales and manufacturing of 7-OH-based products.

“I became an addict because heroin was so available, but I had to go to the South Bronx or the Lower East Side,” Kennedy said. “Now, you can go to any gas station. They’re marketing them to children.”

While the FDA crackdown currently targets 7-OH, not kratom in its entirety, the announcement has sparked broader concern about the regulation, or lack thereof, of over-the-counter supplements that claim to be “natural” but may carry serious health risks.

Despite kratom’s accessibility, the FDA has not approved it for any medical uses and continues to warn consumers about potential health risks, including addiction, liver damage, and even death. Between 2011 and 2017, national poison control centers received 1,807 calls related to kratom exposure.

Dr. Robert Levy, a family and addiction physician, pointed out that many people don’t realize the distinction between traditional kratom and 7-OH. “There’s always been concern around kratom because if you take enough of it, kratom does act like an opioid. People can become addicted and have withdrawal or overdose,” he said.

He added that the 7-OH version is “much more addicting and much more problematic” and often sold without consumers’ awareness of what they’re ingesting.

Public interest in kratom exploded recently after a viral TikTok video recounted a teenage boy attempting to steal a Feel Free tonic, a kratom-infused drink, from a stranger outside a gas station. Though the company behind the drink insists it contains only trace levels of 7-OH and now restricts sales to adults over 21, the case has highlighted the growing concern around how these products are marketed and accessed by young people.

Some companies, like Botanic Tonics, have supported the FDA’s move against synthetic derivatives like 7-OH while continuing to advocate for access to traditional kratom products with a long history of use. Still, experts argue that even natural kratom carries risk.

Kratom

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In a tragic case that has reignited scrutiny over unregulated herbal supplements, a family from Washington state is sounding the alarm on kratom, a substance often sold as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals, after their 37-year-old son, Jordan McKibban, died from using it. Their warning comes just as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr announces a federal crackdown on a powerful compound derived from kratom known as 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH.What is Kratom?Kratom is a plant-based product derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in countries like Thailand and Malaysia for pain relief and energy boosts, it has in recent years gained popularity in the U.S. as an over-the-counter supplement. It's sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and online in various forms, powders, pills, teas, and even gummies.At low doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, while at higher doses it behaves like a sedative. However, experts warn that kratom has addictive properties, and its effects can mirror those of opioids. It is not regulated by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), and while it is legal in many parts of the U.S., the agency has described it as a “drug of concern.”What is 7-OH and How Is It Related?7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a naturally occurring compound found in kratom, and it is far more potent. While kratom itself contains a mixture of alkaloids, 7-OH is an isolated extract or concentrated form that interacts with the body’s opioid receptors much more strongly.Medical experts say 7-OH can be more potent than morphine. “7-OH is an opioid that can be more potent than morphine,” FDA Commissioner Martin Makary recently stated. The FDA has proposed that 7-OH be classified as an illicit substance, citing rising concerns over its addictive potential and opioid-like effects.A Family’s Grief and WarningJordan McKibban, according to his mother Pam Mauldin, was cautious about pharmaceutical medications and sought alternative solutions for managing anxiety and other health concerns. On the day of his death in 2022, he mixed kratom into his lemonade, a routine he had reportedly followed before.Mauldin found her son unconscious and was unable to revive him. An autopsy later confirmed that his death was linked to mitragynine, one of kratom’s primary alkaloids.“There have been hundreds of people killed from this, and they don’t pull it. The government doesn’t step in,” Mauldin told The New York Post. “I’ve lost my son. I’ve lost the grandchildren I could have had. I’ve lost watching him walk down the aisle.”She added that the kratom packages in her son’s possession had no dosage instructions or warning labels, a dangerous loophole that remains common due to the lack of FDA regulation.RFK Jr’s Crackdown on 7-OHSpeaking at a July 29 press conference, Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jr shared his personal experience with addiction, stating that the easy availability of kratom products, many sold at gas stations and marketed in child-friendly formats like gummy bears, is “a sinister, sinister industry.”Kennedy and FDA Commissioner Makary announced they were beginning the process to classify 7-OH as an illicit drug. The move, if approved by the DEA, would restrict sales and manufacturing of 7-OH-based products.“I became an addict because heroin was so available, but I had to go to the South Bronx or the Lower East Side,” Kennedy said. “Now, you can go to any gas station. They’re marketing them to children.”While the FDA crackdown currently targets 7-OH, not kratom in its entirety, the announcement has sparked broader concern about the regulation, or lack thereof, of over-the-counter supplements that claim to be “natural” but may carry serious health risks.The Regulatory Grey ZoneDespite kratom’s accessibility, the FDA has not approved it for any medical uses and continues to warn consumers about potential health risks, including addiction, liver damage, and even death. Between 2011 and 2017, national poison control centers received 1,807 calls related to kratom exposure.Dr. Robert Levy, a family and addiction physician, pointed out that many people don’t realize the distinction between traditional kratom and 7-OH. “There’s always been concern around kratom because if you take enough of it, kratom does act like an opioid. People can become addicted and have withdrawal or overdose,” he said.He added that the 7-OH version is “much more addicting and much more problematic” and often sold without consumers’ awareness of what they’re ingesting.A Growing National ConcernPublic interest in kratom exploded recently after a viral TikTok video recounted a teenage boy attempting to steal a Feel Free tonic, a kratom-infused drink, from a stranger outside a gas station. Though the company behind the drink insists it contains only trace levels of 7-OH and now restricts sales to adults over 21, the case has highlighted the growing concern around how these products are marketed and accessed by young people.Some companies, like Botanic Tonics, have supported the FDA’s move against synthetic derivatives like 7-OH while continuing to advocate for access to traditional kratom products with a long history of use. Still, experts argue that even natural kratom carries risk.

as rfk jr cracks down on 7-oh, a washington family issues warning against kratom as their son dies after taking the otc supplement

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<strong><span rel="noindex">Male Birth Control</span>: </strong>In a potential game-changer for reproductive health, a new male contraceptive pill has passed early-stage clinical trials without any reported side effects, marking a major step toward expanding birth control options for men.

Developed by US-based biotech company YourChoice Therapeutics, the drug, known as YCT-529, was tested on 16 healthy male volunteers aged between 32 and 59. Results published in the journal Communications Medicine show the oral drug was safe and well-tolerated across a range of doses, with no significant changes in hormone levels, mood, libido, or other health indicators.

<h4>A Long-Awaited Alternative for Men</h4>

For decades, male contraception has remained limited to two options: condoms, which are single-use and prone to failure, and vasectomy, a surgical procedure often considered irreversible. In contrast, women have access to a wide range of contraceptive methods, from daily pills and implants to hormonal IUDs, many of which come with undesirable side effects like weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and reduced libido.

Previous attempts to create a male pill using hormonal approaches have typically run into similar challenges, triggering acne, emotional changes, and reduced sexual drive. The new drug stands out because it does not rely on hormones, potentially offering a safer, more tolerable alternative for men.

YCT-529 functions by blocking vitamin A metabolites, specifically retinoic acid, from binding to receptors in the testes, thereby interfering with sperm production. The approach leverages long-standing research showing retinoic acid’s essential role in spermatogenesis, or the process by which sperm are created.

“This molecule targets a compound which is related to vitamin A, retinoic acid, and we have known for a long time that this compound is important in how sperm are produced in the testis, making it the perfect target for a male contraceptive pill,” said Professor Alan Pacey, an andrologist at the University of Manchester, speaking to BBC Radio 4.

Importantly, the drug achieves this without suppressing testosterone or affecting the sex hormones that regulate libido and other male characteristics.

In the early-stage human trial, participants were administered single doses of YCT-529 in increasing strengths, 10mg, 30mg, 90mg, and 180mg, with some receiving a placebo. Volunteers were closely monitored over a 15-day period to track vital signs, hormone levels, and potential side effects.

The researchers found no adverse effects on heart function, blood composition, liver enzymes, hormone balance, sexual drive, or mood. The pill also demonstrated good bioavailability, meaning it was well absorbed by the body, with minimal impact from food intake.

“YCT-529 does not demonstrate an adverse cardiac safety profile or changes in hormone or cytokine levels,” the study authors concluded. “It shows good bioavailability and is well tolerated by healthy male subjects.”

<h4>Still Early Days, But a Major Step</h4>

Experts have welcomed the findings as a significant development in contraceptive research, though they caution that more studies are needed before YCT-529 reaches pharmacy shelves.

“It’s an exciting step forward,” Dr. Pacey said, “but the big question is whether it actually works to reduce fertility in real-world settings.”

He also noted that because sperm production takes around three months, the contraceptive effect of the pill wouldn’t be immediate. “There will be a lag between starting to take the pill and it having its full contraceptive effects,” he explained.

While the trial has passed a critical milestone, the road to commercialization remains long. Large-scale clinical trials will be needed to assess the drug’s effectiveness in reducing sperm count and preventing pregnancy. Funding and regulatory approval will be key hurdles.

“Since nearly half of all pregnancies in the US and worldwide are unintended, there is a critical need for additional contraceptive options for men and women,” said researchers at YourChoice Therapeutics.

With these promising early results, the hope is that a non-hormonal, reversible male contraceptive may finally be within reach, offering a more balanced share of contraceptive responsibility between partners.

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Male Birth Control: In a potential game-changer for reproductive health, a new male contraceptive pill has passed early-stage clinical trials without any reported side effects, marking a major step toward expanding birth control options for men.Developed by US-based biotech company YourChoice Therapeutics, the drug, known as YCT-529, was tested on 16 healthy male volunteers aged between 32 and 59. Results published in the journal Communications Medicine show the oral drug was safe and well-tolerated across a range of doses, with no significant changes in hormone levels, mood, libido, or other health indicators.A Long-Awaited Alternative for MenFor decades, male contraception has remained limited to two options: condoms, which are single-use and prone to failure, and vasectomy, a surgical procedure often considered irreversible. In contrast, women have access to a wide range of contraceptive methods, from daily pills and implants to hormonal IUDs, many of which come with undesirable side effects like weight gain, nausea, mood swings, and reduced libido.Previous attempts to create a male pill using hormonal approaches have typically run into similar challenges, triggering acne, emotional changes, and reduced sexual drive. The new drug stands out because it does not rely on hormones, potentially offering a safer, more tolerable alternative for men.How the Pill WorksYCT-529 functions by blocking vitamin A metabolites, specifically retinoic acid, from binding to receptors in the testes, thereby interfering with sperm production. The approach leverages long-standing research showing retinoic acid’s essential role in spermatogenesis, or the process by which sperm are created.“This molecule targets a compound which is related to vitamin A, retinoic acid, and we have known for a long time that this compound is important in how sperm are produced in the testis, making it the perfect target for a male contraceptive pill,” said Professor Alan Pacey, an andrologist at the University of Manchester, speaking to BBC Radio 4.Importantly, the drug achieves this without suppressing testosterone or affecting the sex hormones that regulate libido and other male characteristics.Promising Early ResultsIn the early-stage human trial, participants were administered single doses of YCT-529 in increasing strengths, 10mg, 30mg, 90mg, and 180mg, with some receiving a placebo. Volunteers were closely monitored over a 15-day period to track vital signs, hormone levels, and potential side effects.The researchers found no adverse effects on heart function, blood composition, liver enzymes, hormone balance, sexual drive, or mood. The pill also demonstrated good bioavailability, meaning it was well absorbed by the body, with minimal impact from food intake.“YCT-529 does not demonstrate an adverse cardiac safety profile or changes in hormone or cytokine levels,” the study authors concluded. “It shows good bioavailability and is well tolerated by healthy male subjects.”Still Early Days, But a Major StepExperts have welcomed the findings as a significant development in contraceptive research, though they caution that more studies are needed before YCT-529 reaches pharmacy shelves.“It’s an exciting step forward,” Dr. Pacey said, “but the big question is whether it actually works to reduce fertility in real-world settings.”He also noted that because sperm production takes around three months, the contraceptive effect of the pill wouldn’t be immediate. “There will be a lag between starting to take the pill and it having its full contraceptive effects,” he explained.Challenges AheadWhile the trial has passed a critical milestone, the road to commercialization remains long. Large-scale clinical trials will be needed to assess the drug’s effectiveness in reducing sperm count and preventing pregnancy. Funding and regulatory approval will be key hurdles.“Since nearly half of all pregnancies in the US and worldwide are unintended, there is a critical need for additional contraceptive options for men and women,” said researchers at YourChoice Therapeutics.With these promising early results, the hope is that a non-hormonal, reversible male contraceptive may finally be within reach, offering a more balanced share of contraceptive responsibility between partners.

male birth control pill passes early safety trials without any side effects

Feel Your Gut Issues Have Increased Since COVID? Science Finally Has Answers

Drinking 'Just' One Diet Soda A Day? You Are 38% Prone To Getting Type 2 Diabetes

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The Unusual Trend Of COVID-19 Summer Spike In US, Even As RSV And Flu Infections Flatline

the unusual trend of covid-19 summer spike in us, even as rsv and flu flatlines

When it comes to your gut health, you don’t think about it much unless something goes wrong but since COVID-19, a lot more of us are concerned and worried about our gut. Doctors and researchers are now linking the virus to a surge in gut issues—and it goes far beyond a one-off stomach bug. If your digestive system feels off these days—maybe tired, unpredictable, or mysteriously unsettled—you’re not imagining it.

Here’s what researchers have uncovered: COVID-19, especially in its lingering long-COVID form, is rewriting how our gut and brain talk to each other. And that rewrite is showing up as real-world distress—in symptoms like IBS and functional dyspepsia that left pre-pandemic experts baffled.

A recent international study—reported in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology—used the Rome Foundation’s diagnostic criteria to compare two snapshots: one from 2017 and another from 2023. The result was a hard wake-up call:

<ul><li>Gut‑brain disorders rose from 38.3% to 42.6%</li><li>IBS jumped 28% (from 4.7% to 6%)</li><li>Functional dyspepsia surged 44% (from 8.3% to 11.9%)</li></ul>

And people with long COVID reported more severe gut symptoms alongside heightened anxiety and depression. This isn’t just more awareness; it’s a measurable shift.

<h2>Why These Gut-Brain Disorders Are More Than Just Stomach Upsets?</h2>

These aren’t bland digestive symptoms. IBS and functional dyspepsia fall under disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI): an umbrella term that says our gut reacts not just to food—but to stress, mood, infection, and inflammation. That gut-brain axis is a two-way street connecting digestion, emotion, and immunity. When COVID-19 enters the picture, it seems to throw that entire system off balance.

<h2>Why Did A Respiratory Illness Affect the Gut?</h2>

When we talk about COVID-19, we normally picture a cough or sore throat—but GI symptoms have always been part of the story. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain—they’re not rare. Some patients experienced these as first or only symptoms. And for a significant number, those symptoms don’t resolve. One study found people who had COVID were 36% more likely than uninfected peers to develop GI disorders—ranging from ulcers and pancreatitis to IBS and acid reflux.

For those who were hospitalized, or who had more severe cases, the long-term risks jumped even further. A large Veterans Affairs cohort reported substantially higher GI risks—not just in the first year, but for at least three years post-infection.

<h2>How Long COVID and Gut Distress Linger On?</h2>

We often talk about long COVID in terms of fatigue or brain fog. But in many cases, chronic gut issues are front and center—months or even years after the infection. Nausea, stomach pain, altered digestion (like unexpected diarrhea or constipation): these symptoms persist, even when the initial respiratory illness has passed. This persistence may come down to a few intertwined issues:

<strong>Viral Persistence – COVID can linger quietly in gut cells</strong>

Chronic Inflammation – triggering heightened gut sensitivity

Microbiome Disruption – an imbalance of gut bacteria that affects digestion and mood 

<h2>How Anxiety, Depression Are Also Affecting Your Gut?</h2>

Here’s a pattern worth noting, people with DGBIs often report anxiety and depression—and vice versa. The emotional distress isn’t a side effect—it may be part of the same conversation happening along the gut-brain axis. Research shows that anxiety can actually increase the risk of functional dyspepsia eightfold. After COVID, this link seems even stronger.

This isn’t about turning normal people into patients. It’s about recognizing that when COVID hits the gut, it can leave a footprint long afterward. It’s about listening to your body and knowing when something is more than just “stress.”

If you still have gut symptoms after recovering from COVID, you owe it to yourself to explore them—especially if anxiety or depression have joined the mix. A thoughtful medical workup is key, but so is understanding that many GI specialists now see these symptoms as part of chronic long COVID.

There’s no one-size-fits-all cure for post-COVID gut issues, but experts in GI health and gut-brain disorders are recommending a few key approaches. First, focus on diet and microbiome care: eating more high-fiber foods, incorporating prebiotics, staying well-hydrated, and cutting back on alcohol and red meat can help restore microbial balance. Next, address the mind-body connection—stress, anxiety, and gut dysfunction often fuel each other, so practices like cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, or meditation can play a critical role in breaking that cycle. And finally, don’t hesitate to seek clinical support. If your symptoms persist, it’s important to speak with a GI specialist who understands the complexities of long COVID, and, if needed, get connected to programs or researchers focused on gut-brain rehabilitation.

COVID changed how we think about viruses—and what they leave behind. It rewrote the narrative for our lungs, yes, but it also turned the gut into a frontline survivor. If your digestion hasn’t felt the same since then, you're not alone and you're not imagining it.

long covid gut health

ibs after covid

post covid digestive issues

gut brain disorders

covid and microbiome

functional dyspepsia covid

gi symptoms long covid

When it comes to your gut health, you don’t think about it much unless something goes wrong but since COVID-19, a lot more of us are concerned and worried about our gut. Doctors and researchers are now linking the virus to a surge in gut issues—and it goes far beyond a one-off stomach bug. If your digestive system feels off these days—maybe tired, unpredictable, or mysteriously unsettled—you’re not imagining it.Here’s what researchers have uncovered: COVID-19, especially in its lingering long-COVID form, is rewriting how our gut and brain talk to each other. And that rewrite is showing up as real-world distress—in symptoms like IBS and functional dyspepsia that left pre-pandemic experts baffled.A recent international study—reported in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology—used the Rome Foundation’s diagnostic criteria to compare two snapshots: one from 2017 and another from 2023. The result was a hard wake-up call:Gut‑brain disorders rose from 38.3% to 42.6%IBS jumped 28% (from 4.7% to 6%)Functional dyspepsia surged 44% (from 8.3% to 11.9%)And people with long COVID reported more severe gut symptoms alongside heightened anxiety and depression. This isn’t just more awareness; it’s a measurable shift.Why These Gut-Brain Disorders Are More Than Just Stomach Upsets?These aren’t bland digestive symptoms. IBS and functional dyspepsia fall under disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI): an umbrella term that says our gut reacts not just to food—but to stress, mood, infection, and inflammation. That gut-brain axis is a two-way street connecting digestion, emotion, and immunity. When COVID-19 enters the picture, it seems to throw that entire system off balance.Why Did A Respiratory Illness Affect the Gut?When we talk about COVID-19, we normally picture a cough or sore throat—but GI symptoms have always been part of the story. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain—they’re not rare. Some patients experienced these as first or only symptoms. And for a significant number, those symptoms don’t resolve. One study found people who had COVID were 36% more likely than uninfected peers to develop GI disorders—ranging from ulcers and pancreatitis to IBS and acid reflux.For those who were hospitalized, or who had more severe cases, the long-term risks jumped even further. A large Veterans Affairs cohort reported substantially higher GI risks—not just in the first year, but for at least three years post-infection.How Long COVID and Gut Distress Linger On?We often talk about long COVID in terms of fatigue or brain fog. But in many cases, chronic gut issues are front and center—months or even years after the infection. Nausea, stomach pain, altered digestion (like unexpected diarrhea or constipation): these symptoms persist, even when the initial respiratory illness has passed. This persistence may come down to a few intertwined issues:Viral Persistence – COVID can linger quietly in gut cellsChronic Inflammation – triggering heightened gut sensitivityMicrobiome Disruption – an imbalance of gut bacteria that affects digestion and mood How Anxiety, Depression Are Also Affecting Your Gut?Here’s a pattern worth noting, people with DGBIs often report anxiety and depression—and vice versa. The emotional distress isn’t a side effect—it may be part of the same conversation happening along the gut-brain axis. Research shows that anxiety can actually increase the risk of functional dyspepsia eightfold. After COVID, this link seems even stronger.This isn’t about turning normal people into patients. It’s about recognizing that when COVID hits the gut, it can leave a footprint long afterward. It’s about listening to your body and knowing when something is more than just “stress.”If you still have gut symptoms after recovering from COVID, you owe it to yourself to explore them—especially if anxiety or depression have joined the mix. A thoughtful medical workup is key, but so is understanding that many GI specialists now see these symptoms as part of chronic long COVID.How To Heal the Gut Post-COVID?There’s no one-size-fits-all cure for post-COVID gut issues, but experts in GI health and gut-brain disorders are recommending a few key approaches. First, focus on diet and microbiome care: eating more high-fiber foods, incorporating prebiotics, staying well-hydrated, and cutting back on alcohol and red meat can help restore microbial balance. Next, address the mind-body connection—stress, anxiety, and gut dysfunction often fuel each other, so practices like cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, or meditation can play a critical role in breaking that cycle. And finally, don’t hesitate to seek clinical support. If your symptoms persist, it’s important to speak with a GI specialist who understands the complexities of long COVID, and, if needed, get connected to programs or researchers focused on gut-brain rehabilitation.COVID changed how we think about viruses—and what they leave behind. It rewrote the narrative for our lungs, yes, but it also turned the gut into a frontline survivor. If your digestion hasn’t felt the same since then, you're not alone and you're not imagining it.

feel your gut issues have increased since covid? science finally has answers

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