A new COVID-19 vaccine has received approval and is expected to become available soon, a development noted by William Schaffner, a Professor of Preventive Medicine. This comes as health officials continue to address public health concerns, including a summer COVID surge and outbreaks of other diseases such as Legionnaires’ disease in New York City and measles in Pennsylvania.
In related health news, a 2026 report from the March of Dimes has brought attention to maternal care deserts across the United States. Rolanda Lister, an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, discussed the report’s findings, which indicate that millions of pregnant women reside more than an hour away from a maternity hospital or prenatal care services. This issue is particularly relevant in areas like Aiken County, where access to comprehensive healthcare, including facilities like Aiken Regional Medical Centers, is crucial for residents.
Further health discussions include the rising cost of cancer drugs. Stacie Dusetzina, a Professor of Health Policy, commented on the inflation in these drug prices, citing the pancreatic cancer drug Rasonque, which carries an annual cost of $480,000. Additionally, the practice of prescribing antibiotics for urinary tract infections (UTIs) that women may not have is a growing concern. Melissa Kaufman, Chief of the Division of Reconstructive Urology and Pelvic Health, highlighted this issue, emphasizing the potential for unnecessary antibiotic use.
Beyond immediate health concerns, the ongoing debate about daylight saving time continues. Beth Malow, a Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics in the Vanderbilt Sleep Division, has pointed to the health benefits of permanent standard time, suggesting it aligns more closely with human biological clocks. This discussion often resurfaces as the days shorten and thoughts turn to the fall end of daylight saving time.
Research into kidney transplantation also saw recent attention, with Peter Reese, a professor of Surgery, having his work cited regarding the use of a virtual nephrologist in patient discussions. These diverse health topics underscore the ongoing efforts in medical research and public health awareness that impact communities like Aiken.
