Makary, Bhattacharya confirmed by Senate to top health posts

The Senate recently voted to confirm Marty Makary as the new commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration and Jay Bhattacharya as the director of the National Institutes of Health. The confirmation process went smoothly, with Republicans largely supporting both candidates. Makary received backing from all Republicans and three Democrats in a 56-44 vote, while Bhattacharya garnered support from all Republicans in a 53-47 vote.

The appointments of Makary and Bhattacharya come at a crucial time for the agencies, which have been facing workforce cuts and low morale. The FDA recently experienced layoffs of probationary employees overseeing medical devices, food, and tobacco, causing distress among the workforce. Similarly, NIH has been dealing with pending layoffs, disruptions to grant review processes, and the departure of key leaders.

Makary, a pancreatic surgeon at Johns Hopkins, and Bhattacharya, a Stanford health economist, both emphasized their commitment to improving public health during their confirmation hearings. Makary pledged to scrutinize food additives more closely and address conflicts of interest within public health advisory panels. Bhattacharya promised to fund research on chronic diseases and foster a culture of free speech and dissent within the NIH.

Both nominees have a history of questioning aspects of the U.S. healthcare system and have been known as Covid-19 contrarians. Makary and Bhattacharya have faced scrutiny for their views on vaccines, with Makary hesitating to recommend them for combating the measles outbreak and Bhattacharya acknowledging the need for more studies on vaccine-autism links.

Despite their controversial stances, colleagues express confidence in Makary and Bhattacharya’s abilities to lead their respective agencies. Critics, however, are concerned that their contrarian views may influence their decision-making.

Makary has already begun forming his team, with Jim Traficant serving as his chief of staff. At the FDA, several senior officials have left, including the heads of the food and drugs divisions. Similarly, at NIH, key leaders have departed before Bhattacharya’s confirmation.

Overall, the appointments of Makary and Bhattacharya mark a new chapter for the FDA and NIH. Their leadership will be closely watched as they navigate the challenges facing their agencies and work towards improving public health in the United States. The digital age has brought about a significant shift in the way we communicate, work, and live our lives. With the rise of social media, online shopping, and remote work, our reliance on technology has never been greater. But along with the convenience and efficiency that technology provides, there are also concerns about its impact on our mental health.

One of the most pressing issues related to technology and mental health is the phenomenon of digital addiction. With the constant access to smartphones, tablets, and computers, many people find themselves unable to disconnect from the digital world. This can lead to a range of problems, including sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, and a decreased ability to focus.

Research has shown that excessive screen time can have a negative impact on our mental well-being. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt our circadian rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can lead to fatigue, irritability, and a general sense of malaise. In addition, constantly checking social media or emails can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) and increase feelings of inadequacy or loneliness.

Another issue related to technology and mental health is the phenomenon of cyberbullying. With the anonymity that the internet provides, individuals can easily harass, threaten, or belittle others online. This can have devastating effects on the mental health of the victim, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

Despite these challenges, there are ways to mitigate the negative impact of technology on our mental health. One of the most important steps is to set boundaries around our technology use. This can involve limiting screen time, turning off notifications, and creating tech-free zones in our homes. It is also important to prioritize face-to-face interactions and engage in activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature.

Furthermore, it is essential to seek help if technology use is interfering with your mental health. This can involve talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or practicing mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and anxiety. By taking proactive steps to manage our technology use and prioritize our mental health, we can navigate the digital age with greater ease and well-being.