Nitashia Johnson for STAT

STAT+ | A new kind of liver crisis is emerging in the U.S. The American diet is to blame

Metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease, or MetALD, is now a leading concern among doctors. STAT series 'Deadliest Drug' explores why.

By Isabella Cueto

The ‘velocity of obesity’ aims to show which nations are slowing an epidemic

New study focuses on speed of obesity rates rising or falling, finds BMI rising quickly in many lower-income countries, leveling off in wealthier nations.

By Elizabeth Cooney

STAT+ | What the Trump administration wants in its next FDA leader

Trump administration wants new FDA commissioner to focus on popular items like healthy food. FDA staff want a strong leader who can curb political meddling.

By Daniel Payne and Lizzy Lawrence

Maksym Filipenko for STAT

STAT+ | Bill Cassidy risked his legacy. It may not be enough to save his career

The Republican senator's votes to impeach Trump and confirm RFK Jr. have turned Louisiana's Senate primary into a test of MAGA loyalty.

By Chelsea Cirruzzo and Daniel Payne

New subpoena suggests DOJ has begun criminal investigation of gender-affirming care

Grand jury subpoenas suggest DOJ pursuing criminal probe of gender-affirming care for minors. Earlier civil attempts were blocked by courts.

By Theresa Gaffney

Medicare halts enrollment of new hospice, home health providers

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a moratorium on new hospice and home health agency providers in a bid to “crush” health care fraud. 

By O. Rose Broderick

Photo illo: STAT;Photos: Mary Beth and Dave Brennan

STAT+ | Scientists link boy’s tumor to gene therapy viruses, in rare finding

The findings confirm the theoretical risk of gene therapies, but the medicines continue to offer patients profound benefits, doctors say.

By Jason Mast

Opinion: The hantavirus is a wake-up call. Will the Trump administration answer it?

Hantavirus will fade from the public eye. But the gaps this outbreak revealed in our ability to respond will remain.

By Craig Spencer