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Highlights from This Week's Health Releases: What You Should Know

Weekly Health Press Release Recap

As healthcare headlines continue to fill the news, it can be overwhelming for journalists and consumers alike to track the latest developments. This week, we’ve rounded up some standout health press releases that merit your attention, ranging from mental health awareness initiatives to new medical technologies and significant corporate partnerships. Here’s a closer look at what you missed:

1. Novo Nordisk and CVS Caremark Collaboration

Novo Nordisk announced a significant partnership with CVS Caremark, America’s leading pharmacy benefit manager. Beginning July 1, 2025, Wegovy®, Novo Nordisk's GLP-1 medication aimed at obesity, will be preferred on CVS's formularies, making access to this essential drug easier for patients struggling with weight management.

2. Mental Health Awareness Initiatives

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is empowering communities by sharing resilience-building strategies and resources. This initiative aims to foster both personal and community well-being, highlighting the importance of mental health support for all.

3. Alarming Link Between Phthalates and Heart Disease

New research has revealed a disturbing connection between phthalates—ubiquitous chemicals found in various products—and increased heart disease mortality globally. Dr. Leonardo Trasande, a key researcher in the study, stresses the need for stringent regulations to mitigate exposure, especially in rapidly industrializing regions.

4. Regulus Therapeutics to be Acquired by Novartis

Pharma giant Novartis has agreed to purchase Regulus Therapeutics for $7 per share, potentially valuing the deal at up to $1.7 billion with possible additional payouts. This acquisition illustrates Novartis’s commitment to expanding its portfolio in the pharmaceutical landscape, particularly in rare diseases.

5. Charles Barkley Takes on GLP-1 Advocacy

Basketball legend Charles Barkley has teamed up with Ro to advocate for its GLP-1 offerings in a series of advertisements. His engaging personality aims to streamline access to medications while ensuring insurance inquiries are straightforward and transparent for users.

6. Rising Healthcare Costs Impact Americans

A recent survey has indicated that 38% of Americans delayed necessary healthcare due to costs, a sharp rise from previous years. This decision led to worsened conditions for many, marking a concerning trend as healthcare prices continue to escalate.

7. Investment News from Biohaven

Biohaven has secured an investment of up to $600 million from Oberland Capital. This strategic partnership reinforces Biohaven’s position in delivering innovative therapies for rare diseases, spotlighting the critical role of investment in advancing health solutions.

8. Medtronic’s Clinical Trial Success

Medtronic celebrated the successful results of its URO clinical trial, which evaluated the efficacy of its Hugo™ robotic-assisted surgery system for urological procedures. The trial outcomes, described as revolutionary, affirm the system's potential in improving patient care significantly.

9. Chipotle’s Initiative for Educators and Healthcare Workers

In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week, Chipotle is offering over $2 million in free burritos to teachers and healthcare professionals. The initiative recognizes the hard work of these individuals, providing a token of gratitude during stressful times.

10. AI Innovations in Social Care by Blooming Health

Blooming Health has raised $26 million in its Series A funding round to enhance social care through AI technologies. Designed to assist vulnerable populations, the AI agent quickly connects individuals with the services they need, streamlining social care delivery across communities.

11. Mother’s Day Campaign by Poise®

Poise® has partnered with actress Katherine Heigl to launch limited-edition Mother’s Day cards to foster open conversations about bladder leaks. This humorous approach aims to reduce stigma while encouraging transparency surrounding common issues faced by many women.

12. Abbott's Volt™ PFA System Data

Abbott announced new clinical study data regarding their Volt™ PFA System for atrial fibrillation patients, showcasing long-lasting benefits. This promising data underscores the product's potential to improve patient outcomes progressively.