GOP governors stay silent amid plans to slash Medicaid spending in their states

The weight-loss drug market is exploding, with new GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy driving a pharmaceutical gold rush. These drugs are hailed as revolutionary for obesity treatment, but they’re expensive and come with side effects affecting up to 70% of users. A health economist breaks down who stands to profit most from this booming industry, projected to hit $150 billion by 2035.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about shedding pounds—it’s a massive shift in healthcare and big pharma’s bottom line. While these drugs offer hope for millions, their high cost and side effects raise tough questions about accessibility and long-term impact. Whether you’re a patient, investor, or just watching healthcare trends, this story highlights the messy intersection of health, profit, and innovation.

Think of France, and you might imagine sidewalk cafés filled with people casually puffing away on cigarettes. But that cliché is fading fast—official numbers show smoking rates in France have plummeted in recent years. This piece digs into how the government’s crackdown on tobacco, from higher taxes to plain packaging laws, is reshaping old habits and challenging the country’s smoky reputation.

Editor’s Note: France’s smoking decline isn’t just a quirky cultural shift—it’s a sign of how policy can change deeply ingrained behaviors. For a country long synonymous with cigarettes, this turnaround matters because it shows even the most stubborn stereotypes can evolve. Plus, it’s a win for public health, with fewer smokers meaning fewer health costs down the line. Who knew fewer Gauloises could be such good news?

Tennis legend Venus Williams sat down with TODAY to chat about her latest ventures—from commentating at the French Open (and cheering on Coco Gauff’s big win) to gracing the cover of L'Officiel and launching a video podcast with her sister Serena. She also highlighted her fitness initiative aimed at motivating people to stay active.

Editor’s Note: Venus isn’t just a tennis icon; she’s expanding her influence beyond the court. Whether it’s media projects, fashion, or promoting health, she’s shaping conversations in multiple spaces—proving athletes can be powerful voices off the field too. For fans, it’s a refreshing look at her next chapter.

Psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma breaks down why deep friendships matter—especially as we age—and shares practical tips for making them happen. Her advice? Lead with optimism, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace new hobbies or social settings. It’s a refreshing take on connection that doesn’t rely on clichés.

Editor’s Note: Loneliness is a growing issue, but this isn’t just another "go make friends" pep talk. Dr. Varma’s approach blends science with actionable steps, making it relevant whether you’re 25 or 65. In a world where social ties often feel shallow or algorithm-driven, her insights cut through the noise.

Turns out your furry friend might be way more adventurous at dinner time than you are. A growing number of pet food companies are exploring insect-based proteins and lab-grown meat as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional kibble. While the idea of feeding your cat cricket meal might make you squirm, researchers say these options could slash the environmental toll of pet food—without your pet even noticing the switch.

Editor’s Note: Pet food has a massive carbon footprint (think: factory-farmed beef and fish), but swapping in bugs or cultured meat could help. It’s not just about weird ingredients—it’s a real shot at making pet ownership greener. And hey, if your dog happily eats sidewalk mystery scraps, they probably won’t mind a sustainable upgrade.