The all-female free divers of Jeju Island have a 'superpower' in their genes The all-female Korean Haenyeo divers show genetic adaptations to cold-water diving involving their blood pressure and cold tolerance. "It's like a superpower," says one of the researchers. Ari Daniel
A Texas abortion ban sponsor aims to clarify when doctors can do the procedure Since abortion became almost entirely illegal in Texas in 2021, the state has seen a significant rise in the number of women who die in pregnancy or after giving birth. A new bill aims to change that. Katia Riddle
RFK Jr. faces criticism from Congress about budget cuts to science and health care On Wednesday, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifys before the House Appropriations committee in the morning and the Senate HELP committee hearing in the evening. Selena Simmons-Duffin
The Environmental Protection Agency delays limits on PFAS in drinking water Federal rules to reduce the levels of "forever chemicals" in drinking water are getting delayed. Pien Huang
Under pressure, HHS reinstates hundreds of occupational health workers The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is restoring several programs and bringing back the staffers who run them, but much of the agency's work is still on the chopping block. Will Stone
How much are we willing to pay for life-saving medications? ProPublica health care reporter David Armstrong has multiple myeloma. He says a single pill of his prescription costs the company just 25 cents to make — but costs him about the same as a new iPhone. Dave Davies
Washington cities are decriminalizing magic mushrooms. Could a psychedelic ‘renaissance’ take hold statewide? Resolutions have decriminalized psilocybin in cities across Western Washington. Studies show psychedelics can help people suffering from trauma, depression, and anxiety. And more people are microdosing for their mental health. Stephen Howie
FDA moves to ban fluoride supplements for kids, removing a key tool for dentists The agency is taking steps to remove prescription fluoride treatments that children swallow. Pien Huang
He was experiencing psychosis. Then, his boss made a decision that saved his life A few years ago, "A" experienced a psychotic episode. His boss made a decision that saved his life. Autumn Barnes
Trump administration's universal flu vaccine project puzzles scientists The Trump administration has launched a $500 million project to develop a universal flu vaccine that won't need yearly updates. But vaccine experts are mystified by its focus on a dated technology. Rob Stein