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Insulin Resistance Linked to Increased Cancer Risk, AI Model Confirms

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

For decades, insulin resistance – a condition where the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar – has been recognized as a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and liver problems. Now, groundbreaking research utilizing artificial intelligence suggests a far broader impact: insulin resistance may significantly elevate the risk of developing 12 different types of cancer. Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a machine learning model, AI-IR, that demonstrates a population-scale link between insulin resistance and cancer, offering a new avenue for early detection and preventative strategies.

The connection between insulin resistance and cancer isn’t entirely new, but establishing definitive evidence has been challenging. The human body is incredibly complex, making it hard to pinpoint direct causal relationships between metabolic issues and disease development. However, the increasing power of artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning, is providing researchers with new tools to analyze vast datasets and uncover hidden patterns. This latest study, published in Nature Communications, represents a significant step forward in understanding these complex interactions.

“We recently made a tool, AI-IR, for predicting insulin resistance in individuals based on nine different pieces of medical information,” explained Yuta Hiraike, a researcher from the University of Tokyo Hospital. “It proved successful and made us think we could apply this tool to related concerns. While a possible link between insulin resistance and cancer has been suggested, large-scale evidence has been limited due to the difficulty of evaluating insulin resistance in the clinic. But with AI-IR, we have provided the first population-scale evidence that insulin resistance is a risk factor for cancer. And since the nine input parameters for AI-IR are obtained through standard health checkups, AI-IR could be easily implemented to identify high-risk individuals and enable focused screening of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer.”

AI-IR: A New Approach to Risk Assessment

Traditionally, body mass index (BMI) has been used to predict an individual’s risk of insulin resistance and related health problems, including certain cancers. However, BMI has limitations. It can produce false positives, identifying some obese individuals as metabolically healthy when they aren’t experiencing the negative effects of obesity, and false negatives, missing insulin resistance in individuals with a normal BMI. AI-IR aims to overcome these shortcomings by providing a more nuanced and accurate assessment of insulin resistance.

The researchers found that AI-IR achieved strong predictive performance when compared with directly measured insulin resistance in validation datasets. Direct measurement of insulin resistance is often impractical outside of specialized diabetes clinics, making AI-IR a scalable alternative for population-level evaluation. By combining nine readily available clinical parameters into a single metric, the model can detect insulin resistance that BMI alone might miss. The team is now focused on understanding how genetic differences influence this risk and integrating large-scale human data with molecular biology studies to develop more effective strategies for overcoming insulin resistance.

Implications for Cancer Screening and Prevention

The findings suggest that identifying and addressing insulin resistance could become a crucial component of cancer prevention strategies. The ability to pinpoint individuals at higher risk through a simple assessment – utilizing parameters obtained during routine health checkups – could allow for more targeted screening and early intervention. This is particularly significant given that approximately one in three Americans has insulin resistance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While the study establishes a correlation between insulin resistance and increased cancer risk, it does not prove causation. Further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and determine whether interventions aimed at improving insulin sensitivity can directly reduce cancer incidence. However, the study provides compelling evidence that insulin resistance should be considered a significant risk factor in the development of multiple cancers.

The researchers are continuing to refine AI-IR and explore its potential applications in personalized medicine. They hope that this tool will ultimately contribute to a more proactive and preventative approach to cancer care, focusing on identifying and mitigating risk factors before the disease develops. The next steps involve investigating the specific biological pathways linking insulin resistance to different cancer types and developing targeted therapies to address these pathways.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

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Health

Obesity Linked to Higher Risk of Severe Infections & Global Mortality, Study Finds

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

A recent international study published in The Lancet highlights a significant correlation between adult obesity and an increased risk of severe infections, contributing substantially to global infection-related mortality. The research underscores the importance of obesity prevention as a crucial public health priority.

Approximately 1 in 8 adults globally is living with obesity, a condition that extends beyond the well-documented risks of diabetes and heart disease. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence emerged that individuals with obesity faced higher rates of severe illness and mortality. This raises an crucial question: Is this vulnerability confined to respiratory illnesses, or does excess body weight heighten the risk for various infectious diseases?

Obesity impacts the immune system, leading to chronic inflammatory responses and metabolic disruptions, all of which may elevate the likelihood of severe infections. Despite these biological insights, there has been limited research examining the breadth of infections affected by obesity.

Study Design and Methodology

This multicohort study pooled data from the Finnish Public Sector study and the Health and Social Support study, alongside the UK Biobank. Researchers evaluated body mass index (BMI) from 1998 to 2010, categorizing participants into three groups: healthy weight (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²), overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m²), and obesity (BMI >30.0 kg/m²). Individuals within the obesity category were further classified into three subgroups based on severity.

To track health outcomes, researchers analyzed national hospitalization and mortality registries, focusing on severe infections that required hospital treatment or resulted in death. Out of nearly 68,000 adults from Finland and over 479,000 from the UK, the study documented over 90,000 severe infections during the follow-up periods.

Findings: The Dose-Response Relationship

Results indicated a clear dose-response relationship between obesity and infection risk. Adults with class III obesity exhibited nearly three times the risk of hospitalization or death from severe infections compared to those with a healthy weight. Specifically, the hazard ratio for severe infections was recorded as 2.69 in Finland and 3.07 in the UK. Individuals with obesity faced a 30% to 40% higher risk of severe infections compared to their healthier counterparts.

The study revealed that this association persisted even when adjusting for various lifestyle factors and health conditions. Weight change analyses showed that individuals transitioning from overweight to obesity had an increased infection risk, while those who lost weight reported modest reductions in risk.

Global Impact of Obesity on Infection-Related Deaths

When examining global mortality data, researchers estimated that approximately 8.6% of infection-related deaths in 2018, 15.0% in 2021, and 10.8% in 2023 were attributable to adult obesity. This translates to roughly 600,000 deaths linked to obesity in 2023 alone. The highest attributable fractions were noted in regions such as North Africa and the Middle East.

The implications of these findings are profound, as they clarify that obesity is a significant risk factor for severe infections across multiple pathogens, including viral and bacterial infections. In particular, skin and soft tissue infections were associated with nearly a threefold increase in risk among individuals with obesity.

Public Health Implications

The study’s authors emphasize the urgent need for public health interventions aimed at obesity prevention. Approximately 1 in 10 deaths attributed to infections globally can be linked to obesity, highlighting its role in both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Addressing obesity could significantly reduce hospitalizations and mortality rates associated with infectious diseases, particularly during routine infectious seasons and potential future pandemics. However, It’s essential to note that the study is observational, meaning that while it reveals strong associations, it does not establish causality.

As the health community continues to grapple with the implications of these findings, there is an increasing call for evidence-based weight management programs and infection control policies that specifically account for obesity. This approach is critical for enhancing public health outcomes and reducing the burden of infectious diseases worldwide.

the growing body of evidence linking obesity to severe infection risk underscores the need for comprehensive strategies aimed at managing obesity. Public health officials and healthcare providers must prioritize obesity prevention efforts to mitigate the associated health risks, ultimately leading to healthier populations.

If you have thoughts on this important public health issue, we encourage you to share your comments and insights below.

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Health

IRA Drug Negotiation: Improved Medicare Part D Coverage in 2026 & 2027 | KFF

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 continues to reshape healthcare access for Medicare beneficiaries, and new data reveals a significant impact on prescription drug coverage. Beyond the widely publicized negotiation of lower drug prices, the IRA is demonstrably improving access to medications for seniors, ensuring broader coverage of both newly negotiated drugs and existing treatments. This expansion of coverage is a direct result of the IRA’s requirement that all Medicare Part D plans include these selected drugs, in all available dosages and forms.

For millions of Americans relying on Medicare, the cost of prescription drugs can be a substantial financial burden. The IRA aims to alleviate this pressure through a two-pronged approach: directly negotiating prices with pharmaceutical companies and expanding coverage to ensure more beneficiaries can actually use those lower-priced medications. Initial findings indicate the law is already delivering on the latter promise, with improved coverage rates observed even before the first negotiated prices took effect on January 1, 2026.

An analysis of 2026 Medicare Part D formulary coverage shows that access to several dosages and forms of nine out of the first ten drugs selected for price negotiation has improved since 2025, prior to the IRA’s coverage requirements. So more Medicare enrollees now have access to these vital medications through their existing Part D plans. The changes are particularly notable for insulin products like Fiasp and NovoLog, and for the cancer drug Imbruvica.

Expanded Coverage for Negotiated Drugs in 2026

The IRA’s coverage requirement stipulates that all Part D plans must cover the ten drugs selected for the initial round of price negotiations, encompassing all dosage forms and strengths. This has led to tangible improvements in access. In 2025, Fiasp, a rapid-acting insulin, was covered by just 24% of Part D plans, while NovoLog was covered by 32%. Coverage for two dosages of Imbruvica, a medication used to treat certain blood cancers, was available to roughly half of Part D enrollees. With the IRA’s provisions in effect, all Part D enrollees now have access to these medications.

Looking Ahead: Coverage Gains Expected with 2027 Negotiations

The benefits aren’t limited to the first ten drugs. The IRA also authorized Medicare to negotiate prices for an additional 15 drugs, with those negotiated prices slated to accept effect in 2027. Preliminary data suggests similar coverage improvements are on the horizon. One drug in particular, Wegovy, a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for both obesity and cardiovascular disease risk reduction, currently faces limited coverage. As of 2026, less than 1% of Part D enrollees have access to Wegovy through their plans, largely because Medicare traditionally hasn’t covered drugs specifically for weight loss.

However, a potential shift is underway. The Trump administration is reportedly planning a voluntary model to expand Medicare coverage of GLP-1s for obesity treatment beginning in 2027. This expansion, coupled with the IRA’s coverage requirement, is expected to significantly increase access to Wegovy for eligible beneficiaries. Six other drugs selected for negotiation in 2027 – Austedo and Austedo XR, Otezla, Breo Ellipta, Xtandi, Pomalyst, Ofev, Ibrance, Calquence and Vraylar – also currently have less than universal coverage among Part D plans, and will see increased access due to the IRA’s provisions. Notably, six of these drugs already fall within protected classes that require all plans to offer coverage.

The Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program, established by the IRA, is a complex undertaking. CMS has issued final rulemaking for the program, with the most recent updates published on October 31, 2025. The agency continues to refine guidance and address feedback from stakeholders as the program is implemented.

As the IRA’s provisions continue to roll out, ongoing monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to assess the full impact on drug costs and access for Medicare beneficiaries. The initial data is promising, suggesting that the law is not only lowering prices but also ensuring that more seniors can benefit from these crucial medications. The coming years will reveal the long-term effects of this landmark legislation on the landscape of prescription drug coverage in the United States.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about the Inflation Reduction Act and its impact on Medicare Part D coverage. This proves not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or financial advisor for personalized guidance.

What are your thoughts on the IRA’s impact on drug coverage? Share your comments below.

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If you don’t have money, will you lose your health? Who are the people who live long and healthy lives?

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Wealth & Wellbeing: Income Directly Impacts Healthy Lifespan, New Data Reveals

SEO Alert: Breaking News – New data released today underscores a stark reality: your income significantly impacts how long you’ll live in good health. A recent study in South Korea reveals a widening gap in healthy life expectancy between the highest and lowest income earners, highlighting a critical issue of health equity.

The Growing Divide: 8.4 Years Separates the Rich and Poor

The latest ‘Healthy Lifespan Statistics Collection’ from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, analyzed with data from the National Health Insurance Corporation and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, shows a concerning trend. In 2022, the top 20% of income earners enjoyed a healthy life expectancy of 72.7 years, while the bottom 20% lagged behind at just 64.3 years – a difference of 8.4 years. This gap has steadily increased from 6.7 years in 2012, and remains significant as of 2020.

Beyond Lifespan: The Impact on Quality of Life

While overall life expectancy in Korea stands at 80.8 years for men and 86.6 years for women, the healthy life expectancy – the years lived in good health – is considerably lower at 69.9 years. This difference represents the period spent battling illness and chronic conditions. For men, healthy life expectancy is 67.9 years, nearly four years shorter than women’s at 71.7 years. This underscores the importance of not just living longer, but living well for longer.

Why the Disparity? Access to Care & Lifestyle Choices

Research consistently demonstrates that financial stability is a key determinant of health. Those with greater economic resources are more likely to prioritize preventative healthcare, including regular checkups and healthy eating. They also often have easier access to quality medical facilities. A 2012 study published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health found that individuals in the bottom 10% of the income bracket faced a 2.3 times higher risk of death compared to those in the top 10%.

Chronic Diseases: A Major Contributor to Health Loss

Chronic diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are major drivers of declining healthy life expectancy, accounting for 78.8% of deaths in Korea as of 2024. These conditions are often preventable or manageable with early detection and treatment. Wealthier individuals are more likely to avoid risk factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and to actively manage existing health conditions. Conversely, financial hardship can sometimes lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms.

A Proactive Approach to Health: It’s an Investment, Not an Expense

The data clearly shows that investing in health – through preventative care, healthy lifestyle choices, and timely treatment – is not just a personal benefit, but a societal imperative. Addressing health disparities requires a multi-faceted approach, including increased access to affordable healthcare, public health initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, and policies that reduce income inequality. Protecting your health isn’t simply about adding years to your life, it’s about adding life to your years, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to do so.

Stay up-to-date with the latest health and economic news at archyde.com, your source for insightful reporting and breaking developments.

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