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WebMD
3 days ago
- Health
- WebMD
Why Losing Your Health Insurance Is a Health Risk in Itself
July 24, 2025 – Health insurance is in the spotlight these days, especially the risk of losing it. The recently passed federal budget bill that includes significant Medicaid cuts is projected to leave millions uninsured over the next decade. An additional 4.2 million Affordable Care Act enrollees may be priced out, as premiums are expected to rise sharply for next year. But here's what you may not have heard: Tens of millions of Americans – about 7.6% of the population, according to the most recent data – already lack insurance, whether they've lost their job, can't afford a health plan, or have trouble signing up. Losing insurance doesn't just pose a financial burden – research shows it can directly harm your health. Fortunately, there's a lot you can do right now to protect both your health and your coverage. How Losing Insurance Hurts Your Health "When people don't have insurance, they stop seeking regular health care," said Joel Shalowitz, MD, a retired professor at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. That's not just speculation. Research shows that when coverage disappears, people struggle to afford care and skip health services and medications. The upshot: fewer checkups, missed vaccinations, and gaps in treatment for chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes – issues that can become serious problems if left unchecked. "Chronically ill individuals are going to be more at risk from health care cuts," said Adam Gaffney, MD, a public health expert at Harvard Medical School. But even the healthy face risks if they fall behind on preventive care. A study from the American Cancer Society found that disruptions in coverage led to fewer preventive services and screenings among participants. The findings for cancer patients were stark: Those with gaps in Medicaid coverage were more likely to have advanced stages of disease and die earlier, compared with those who remained covered – demonstrating the life-or-death consequences of coverage loss. New mothers can face serious outcomes too: In a 2024 study, those who lost insurance were 19% less likely to attend postpartum visits and 14% less likely to be screened for postpartum depression – an oversight with serious mental health impacts for both mothers and their children, as a wide body of research shows. How to Protect Your Health and Your Coverage If you have coverage now, don't put off preventive care, said Shalowitz. Stay up to date on mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears, and other routine screenings. Likewise, schedule appointments you've been putting off, and refill your prescriptions. That will help head off the possibility of health problems during an uninsured period – but keep in mind, it's no guarantee. "At the end of the day, health is ultimately unpredictable," Gaffney said. "None of us know when the next problem is coming down the pike at us, and that's why we need lifelong, seamless coverage, because health problems are something everyone will ultimately face." Consider these steps: If you're on Medicaid … What to do: Stay in touch with your state Medicaid agency. "The biggest provision that's going to impact people with Medicaid is the [introduction of] work requirements," said Gaffney. By 2027, many on Medicaid will need to prove they've completed 80 hours of work or community service per month, or that they've attended school. Some will lose coverage if they don't comply. "But it will very likely sweep in many, many people who are in compliance but struggle to meet the administrative burden to prove they're in compliance," said Elizabeth Kaplan, JD, director of health care access at Harvard Law's Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation. "Individuals with Medicaid are going to have to be really careful not to miss any communications from their states," she said. So make sure your state Medicaid agency (and Medicaid managed care organization, if you have one) has your up-to-date contact information. Respond promptly to notices regarding actions to maintain your insurance. What documents might your state require? We may not know for sure for another year. In Georgia, which already has similar requirements, beneficiaries are asked to submit work pay stubs or signed letters on official letterhead from organizations where they volunteer. If you're on Medicare … What to do: Follow the news, stay informed, and check your Part D plan costs during annual enrollment. The new bill didn't introduce major cuts to Medicare, but recipients may still see indirect impacts in the coming years. That's because the new law raises the deficit, triggering sequestration rules, or automatic spending cuts, said Gaffney. That could lead to $500 billion in Medicare cuts over the next decade, unless Congress acts to stop it. If you're on Medicare and Medicaid, you may be affected sooner. While the new Medicaid work requirements may not apply to you, the law's other Medicaid provisions could – like cuts to state funding or new cost-sharing for services. Because Medicaid helps offset out-of-pocket costs for many on Medicare, losing it could render care and prescription drugs unaffordable, he said. One thing you can do is maximize your Medicare coverage without overpaying. Shalowitz recommends reviewing prescription coverage (Medicare Part D) options annually, even if you auto-renew. The reason: Your health status and medications can change, so the plan you had last year might not be the most cost-effective option now. Plus, "a lot of plans will give a lower rate one year to get you to sign up, and then they'll increase it dramatically the next year," he said. Simply taking the time to compare plans on could save you hundreds of dollars a year. If you buy insurance through the ACA marketplace … What to do: Anticipate higher premiums and start saving. The new bill didn't extend subsidies that lower the price of marketplace plans. "The majority of people with ACA plans get subsidies, meaning the premium is lower than it would be if they were just paying the market price," said Gaffney. Premiums will likely rise in January. And eligibility requirements are getting stricter, too. During open enrollment, pay close attention to both the costs and the documents required to enroll as soon as the information is available. It might help to have a copy of your latest tax return handy, for example. Enrollees will be asked to verify their household and family size, immigration status, health coverage, and place of residence. If you have employer-based coverage … What to do: Pay attention to changes in your local hospitals and clinics – and speak up if you're concerned. "All of us may be worse off if these Medicaid cuts lead to hospital closures or limits on access to care for everybody," said Sherry Glied, PhD, a public service expert at New York University. Emergency departments, especially in low-income areas, might have to treat more uninsured patients for free, which will hurt their bottom line. "People have talked about rural hospitals, but it's not just rural hospitals – it's urban, suburban, and rural hospitals that predominantly take care of working-class people," said Gaffney. These facilities are "more reliant on Medicaid revenues in order to stay afloat." When Medicaid revenues go down, uncompensated care costs from uninsured patients go up, he said. Hospitals then face the choice of cutting staff or services or even closing altogether. The downstream effects could hit your paycheck in 2027 and beyond. To offset the free care they provide, hospitals will probably charge private insurers higher rates for services, said Shalowitz. That could mean higher premiums for employers – which in turn could mean higher premiums for you if your employer asks you to kick in more each month to cover the cost. Your moves: Stay informed, use preventive care, and reach out to elected officials if you're concerned. Your voice can help shape how these changes unfold, the experts agreed. If you don't have insurance … What to do: Take advantage of free clinics. These facilities, which are often funded through government grants, funds from community and private foundations, or donor support, provide care for people who are uninsured or underinsured. Check the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics' searchable directory of clinics across the country and the Health Resources and Services Administration's list of its funded health centers.
WebMD
3 days ago
- Health
- WebMD
Way Off Track...And How to Get Back
In June, my diabetes hit a speed bump. Although my A1c readings had been ticking up over the years, none broke 6.5. But a month ago, for the first time, my labs sent back a startling report of 7.6, a full point higher than normal. My first reaction was to panic. After all, I've written enough about complications to know that a higher A1c can lead to any number of physical problems, from injured nerves to heart disease. But even as I thought this, I realized that while it wasn't entirely my fault, the higher reading probably could be traced to several things that might be in my control. First, though, came my regular six-month endo visit. Reading my chart, he too was surprised but not panicked. Calmly, he backed away from the computer screen and asked me what, if anything, had changed in my diet, my exercise, my stress levels. And then, together, we talked about my medication plan and adjustments that I might make to lower the next A1c. Luckily for me (and you), there are many new medication options for people with type 2 diabetes these days, and after outlining the possibilities, he wrote a new prescription. 'Don't panic,' he told me. 'You can do this.' A few weeks later, the new medication is helping lower my traditionally high morning sugars. But as we all know, controlling type 2 diabetes isn't all about medication. Any number of things play a part. As I left my doctor's office, I went over my role in the higher A1c. There was a week's trip to Mexico City, where I had most certainly overconsumed tempting flour tortillas. Toss in a few seasonal holidays — Mother's Day, two children's birthdays, and a wedding anniversary complete with carrot cake and cream cheese icing (my favorite). While I didn't down a full slice, there were crumbs and swipes of icing. Plus, a bit burned out on my usual 60-minute-a-day cardio and/or weight routine, there were days when I slept in, exhausted by my routine. Sitting behind the steering wheel of my car, I faced the truth: I had taken an extended vacation from my diabetes. Which might be OK for a few weeks or days, but after six months it had translated into a higher A1c. But as I started the car to head home, I realized I was no longer panicked. After all, what goes up must come down. And while bringing my sugars back into line might take a little work, I felt ready to start. If you find yourself in a similar spot, here are a few questions to ask yourself: How is your diet? Have you been consuming more carbs than normal? Are you eating more white flour? Can you add more whole grains and healthy fiber to your meals? How are your portions? Even if you are selecting the right foods, it's possible to overindulge. Sometimes it helps to weigh and measure foods for a few days to remind you just what a half-cup of Häagen-Dazs looks like. What kind of exercise have you been getting? Cardio is great, but weightlifting two times a week can reduce your blood glucose more effectively. If you find your sugars creeping up after meals, a stroll can work wonders. How are you managing stress? Have you considered yoga, meditation, or long dog walks in nature? Can you turn off the news? Or even declare a no-news day or two? Might talking to a therapist ease anxiety? What have you been drinking? Alcohol can lower your blood sugars, but it can also reduce your inhibitions, making it easier to plunge your hand into that bag of chips. Do you have enough support? A partner, friend, or family member can help you to weather the daily strain of having a chronic disease. Are you taking your meds correctly? Did you miss a dose? Do you know the best way to make up for a missed dose? Are you taking any new meds that might interfere with your diabetes medications? Are you dehydrated? Not drinking enough water, particularly on hot or heavy exercise days, can increase your blood glucose. Have you put on a few pounds? New diabetes drugs can help with blood sugar and weight loss. A talk with your doctor may be in order. Have you been less active than usual? Have work or family duties made it tough to get to the gym? If so, can you find an online exercise program at your fitness level that you might do at home? These are but a few of the questions you might ask yourself if you find your A1c, like mine, has jumped. The important thing is not to panic (more stress!) but to calmly consider how to slowly shift the needle on your care.
WebMD
3 days ago
- Health
- WebMD
FDA OKs New Steroid-Free Skin Cream for Hand Eczema
July 24, 2025 – The FDA has approved a new treatment as the first and only skin cream for a specific type of hand eczema that affects about 1 in every 10 people globally. The cream, sold under the name Anzupgo, contains a new drug called delgocitinib and is for adults with long-term or chronic hand eczema (CHE), especially if steroid creams don't help or aren't a good option. CHE is a type of eczema that affects hands and wrists, causing the skin to become dry, itchy, sore, blistered, thick, or swollen. It can last for at least three months and flares up at least twice a year. CHE develops when the skin's protective barrier is damaged, leading to inflammation and changes in the naturally existing skin bacteria. CHE can seriously affect daily life and mental health as around 70% of people with severe CHE find it hard to do everyday tasks. Currently available treatments often provide only temporary relief, may cause side effects with long-term use, and may need to be injected, highlighting the need for effective and easy-to-use options. Anzupgo was tested in two studies with about 960 people who had moderate to severe CHE. They used either Anzupgo or a placebo cream twice a day for 16 weeks. More people who used Anzupgo had clear or almost clear skin (20% and 29%) compared to those who used the fake cream (10% and 7%). In a longer follow-up study, about 30% of patients using Anzupgo continued to see improvement after 36 weeks. Overall, the treatment was well-tolerated. Less than 1% of people reported side effects like mild skin pain, tingling, itching, redness, or skin infections. A few also had low white blood cell counts. Anzupgo, made by the drugmaker Leo Pharma, is a steroid-free cream that works by blocking key signals from specific proteins in the immune system known as JAK, which cause inflammation in the skin when overactivated. This helps reduce flare-ups and relieve symptoms. Patients can easily apply the cream to the affected areas only on their hands and wrists, following their doctor's advice, and avoid touching their mouth and eyes. The FDA advises against using Anzupgo alongside other medications that work in a similar way or suppress the immune system, as this could raise the risk of side effects. People using Anzupgo should also avoid live vaccines right before, during, and shortly after treatment. Breastfeeding women are told not to touch their nipple area after applying the cream to their hands or wrists. Doctors should be informed of any ongoing or frequent infections, as well as any other health conditions that might increase the risk of infection during treatment.
WebMD
4 days ago
- Health
- WebMD
Mastectomy or Lumpectomy? Reassuring New Data for Young Women
July 23, 2025 – Young women diagnosed with breast cancer may not need to choose aggressive surgery to reduce recurrence risk. New research suggests the likelihood of cancer recurring (coming back) in the same breast or nearby lymph nodes isn't related to her choice of surgical treatment – removing either the cancerous tissue (lumpectomy) or one or both breasts (mastectomy). And for women 40 and under with invasive but not incurable cancer, recurrence risk across the board was "low" – just 5.6% over 10 years. "Many young women with breast cancer choose to have bilateral mastectomies even if they may be a candidate for a smaller surgery," said study author Laura S. Dominici, MD, a breast surgeon at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Mass General Brigham in Boston. "We know survival isn't impacted by this choice, but historically, young women were felt to have higher risk for local recurrence and tend to have more 'aggressive' breast cancers." The new findings, published Wednesday in JAMA Surgery, suggest that "women cannot make a bad choice," Dominici said. "A woman who wants to keep her breast isn't trading off a cancer outcome to do so." Of the more than 1,100 people in the study, 30% had lumpectomy, 26% had a single mastectomy, and 43% had bilateral mastectomy. When researchers analyzed surgical treatment alongside cancer subtype – such as whether it was related to hormones or certain genes – they found no significant differences in recurrence rates. Researchers attributed the low risk to advances in cancer treatments, which have become more targeted. Breast cancer patients in the study were diagnosed between 2006 and 2015, and they received optimal treatment after surgery – meaning breast cancer in young women may not be as likely to come back as older research suggested. Does This Research Apply to Me? The study included women age 40 or younger with stage I, II, or III breast cancer of any subtype – meaning hormone receptor-positive, triple negative, or any ERBB2 (formerly HER2) genetic status. If that describes you, you may want to talk to your doctor about it. The researchers excluded women with stage IV breast cancer (which has already spread to other parts of the body) and women with stage 0, or ductal carcinoma in situ or DCIS. "The results do require some caution in their generalizability because the patients were not from diverse populations, with nearly 85% non-Hispanic White women," Julie A. Margenthaler, MD, wrote in a commentary published with the study. Margenthaler was not involved in the study and is a breast cancer surgeon at WashU Medicine in St. Louis. What Type of Recurrence Did This Study Look For? It looked for local or regional recurrence (that is, in the same breast or surrounding lymph nodes), but not distant recurrence – when breast cancer returns in a distant part of the body like the brain or bones. That's a stage IV diagnosis, which is usually considered treatable but not curable. What About BRCA? About 1 in 10 women in the study had known BRCA genetic involvement, and most had mastectomies. "Women do not have to have a mastectomy in this setting, but many of them consider it," Dominici said. "Mastectomies will reduce the risk for future cancers (for which patients with BRCA mutations are at higher risk) but will not reduce risk for recurrence of the current cancer. A woman with BRCA mutation having lumpectomy should be doing high-risk screening with mammogram and MRI." Does This Mean I Should Get a Lumpectomy? When deciding what breast cancer surgery to have, you need to consider physical, emotional, and psychological factors, said Dominici, who is also a professor at Harvard Medical School. "There is no 'right' answer," she said, "and it is often hard for women to both appreciate and consider the short- and long-term impacts of the different surgeries." Lumpectomy may not be an option for some women with cancer in a significant portion or multiple areas of the breast, Dominici said. "Surgery is one important part of treatment, but systemic therapy and radiation are also key to lower risk for recurrence," she said.
WebMD
6 days ago
- Health
- WebMD
How I Prep for Big Life Moments When My Skin Isn't Cooperating
Last month, I flew to Brazil for a trip I'd been planning for months. It was meant to be a getaway full of joy, beach days, sightseeing, and reconnecting with friends. What I didn't plan for was having an eczema flare-up days before my flight. The timing couldn't have been worse. My skin was irritated and inflamed, and I was concerned about what a long flight, sun exposure, and unfamiliar products might do to my already flaring skin. I thought about canceling. But I also thought about how many moments I've missed before because of my skin. This time, I didn't want eczema to win. So I made a plan. Prepping for big life moments when my skin isn't cooperating starts with adjusting my mindset. I remind myself that I deserve to show up, even if my skin isn't perfectly calm. I talk to myself like I would to a friend, gently but firmly, and I give myself permission to enjoy what's in front of me, even if I don't feel 100%. Then I go into logistics mode. I pack backup moisturizers, barrier creams, and anything I know will bring me comfort. I also bring clothing that makes me feel confident and protected, like soft fabrics, breathable materials, and silhouettes I can move in without friction. For that Brazil trip, I brought my full skin care kit in a carry-on just in case my luggage got lost. I kept an antihistamine on hand and made sure I stayed hydrated during the flight. I also booked accommodations with laundry access so I could control what detergents were used. On the day of big events like weddings, presentations, or reunions, I give myself extra time to get ready. Not to cover anything up, but to make space to move at my own pace. I prep my skin carefully, use a little makeup if it feels good, and choose an outfit that lets me feel free. That trip to Brazil turned out to be beautiful. I didn't hide my skin. I showed up in sleeveless tops, took photos on the beach, and danced through the heat. I had moments of discomfort, yes. But I also had moments of ease, laughter, and connection. And those are what I remember most. Living with a skin condition doesn't mean you have to sit life out. It just means you learn how to show up differently, with extra care, more patience, and a lot of resilience.
