Susan Monarez Faces Daunting Challenges as C.D.C. Director

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking implant designed to alleviate the chronic pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike traditional treatments that rely on frequent injections or oral meds, this tiny device works by delivering targeted therapy directly to affected joints, potentially reducing side effects and improving quality of life for millions. Early trials show promise, though larger studies are needed before it becomes widely available.

Editor’s Note: For people living with rheumatoid arthritis—a painful, often debilitating condition—this could be a game-changer. Current treatments can be hit-or-miss and come with hefty side effects. If this implant pans out, it might offer a more precise, long-term solution, giving patients a shot at less pain and more mobility. That’s a big deal in a field where progress has been slow.

Scientists have uncovered a fascinating twist in the evolutionary history of some of our favorite foods—turns out, potatoes and tomatoes share a much deeper connection than we thought. A new study reveals that these staples split from a common ancestor roughly nine million years ago, long before humans existed. The research sheds light on how these plants adapted over millennia, eventually becoming the wildly different (but equally delicious) crops we know today.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a fun fact for trivia night—it’s a glimpse into how nature tinkers with life over mind-boggling timescales. Understanding these ancient splits helps scientists piece together how plants evolve to survive, which could be crucial for breeding more resilient crops in the face of climate change. Plus, who doesn’t love imagining a primordial proto-potato-tomato hybrid?

A dietitian, Vanessa Rissetto, sat down with TODAY to give the lowdown on sugar—how much you should actually be having, what happens when you overdo it, and the key differences between natural and added sugars. No scare tactics, just straight-up facts to help you make smarter choices.

Editor’s Note: Sugar’s everywhere, and the mixed messages about it can be confusing. This isn’t about shaming your sweet tooth—it’s about understanding what sugar does to your body and how to balance it without feeling like you’re depriving yourself. With so much noise around diets, hearing from a pro cuts through the hype.

This weekend, thousands of cyclists will hit the roads of Massachusetts for the Pan-Mass Challenge, a massive charity bike ride that’s raised over $1 billion for cancer research. TODAY’s Craig Melvin chats with Billy Starr, the event’s founder, about how personal loss drove him to create this legacy—turning grief into a force for good.

Editor’s Note: The Pan-Mass Challenge isn’t just another fundraiser—it’s proof that one person’s idea can ripple into something extraordinary. Starr’s story shows how channeling pain into purpose can create lasting change, and with cancer affecting nearly everyone in some way, this event’s impact hits close to home for countless families. Plus, hitting the $1 billion mark? That’s a reminder of what collective effort can achieve.

This piece rounds up the latest chatter in the health care sector, spotlighting big players like Novo Nordisk, GSK, and Sanofi. Think of it as a quick pulse check on how these companies are faring in the market—whether they’re riding high on new drug approvals, grappling with setbacks, or just holding steady. It’s the kind of insider scoop investors and industry watchers would want to skim over coffee.

Editor’s Note: If you’re tracking pharma stocks or just curious about the forces shaping drug prices and innovation, this snapshot gives you a no-frills look at who’s up, who’s down, and why it matters. These companies aren’t just names on a ticker—they’re behind the meds in your cabinet, so their wins and stumbles ripple out to patients and wallets alike.