Regulatory Policy
Articles tagged with Regulatory Policy
New drug approval pathway benefits industry over patients, argues expert
FDA approves early warning system for sepsis
The FDA has approved an AI-based early warning system for sepsis, developed by Johns Hopkins University researchers, which detects the condition hours faster than doctors and has reduced deaths by nearly 20%. The system, known as Targeted Real-Time Early Warning System, integrates electronic health records with advanced clinical AI to ...
Hormone health climbs the policy agenda as endocrine leaders meet for European Society of Endocrinology’s first Summit of the Presidents
The summit brought together endocrine leaders to identify opportunities to work closely together on increasing the visibility of endocrine health in policy decisions. Early findings from a workforce survey revealed challenges including long patient waiting times and retention concerns among early-career clinicians.
As global tensions rise, major EU initiative seeks to scale up scientific cooperation internationally
The EU is launching a major initiative to expand scientific cooperation globally, building on earlier dialogue with 57 countries. The project aims to develop practical guidance for fairer and more effective collaboration between nations.
Press passes available for NUTRITION 2026 to be held July 25–28
Complimentary press passes are available for NUTRITION 2026, a flagship meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, featuring new nutrition research and policy-relevant findings. Journalists can access a virtual newsroom with embargoed press materials before the meeting.
NCCN announces first fellows for new advocacy academy to help drive effective cancer policy
The NCCN Advocacy Academy connects oncology professionals with policymakers to drive evidence-based cancer policy. The program aims to cultivate policy leadership skills among emerging scientists and care providers.
Registrations open for São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Regulatory Governance
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Regulatory Governance explores emerging regulatory frontiers in Latin America. The program features speakers from leading international institutions and offers a range of activities, including flash talks, poster presentations, and paper development workshops.
How can science support and enable the High Seas Treaty?
A new study provides a solutions-focused pathway to implementing the High Seas Treaty, highlighting the need for enhanced data resources and sharing. The researchers identify major scientific and technical developments that can help address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and connectivity between areas.
Research findings for a more equitable energy transition
A study reveals three levels of obstacles preventing low-income households from benefiting from energy transition support programmes. Four design principles for equitable energy policy are proposed, including barrier-aware mechanisms and immediate financial relief.
Cosmetic procedures need tighter regulation to reduce harm, argue experts
The global cosmetic procedure market is projected to exceed $180bn by 2033, with invasive procedures becoming increasingly invasive and harms on the rise. Experts call for consistent regulation, public education, and advertising controls to protect patients and reduce cosmetic tourism.
Many post-authorization studies fail to comply with public disclosure rules
Only 6 of every 10 finalised post-authorisation studies uploaded protocols and less than 7% had results available for EMA's database. This lack of transparency hinders scientific review and research credibility.
Lack of information hinders regulation of ‘green’ nanopesticides
New formulations of nanopesticides with natural ingredients have appeared in specialized literature, but there is no consensus on what constitutes a green pesticide. Researchers warn that terms such as 'sustainable' must be used correctly and that the natural components of these products do not eliminate environmental concerns.
Farmers’ voices in European protests
A study of European farmers' protests reveals a wide range of concerns including environmental regulations, which differ between countries. Farmers in Germany criticized bureaucracy, while French farmers focused on financial pressures, Belgian farmers expressed a broad mix of concerns, and Dutch farmers voiced dissatisfaction with policy.
Stowers Institute appoints former Cerner legal chief as new general counsel
Dan Devers joins the Stowers Institute with over 20 years of experience in law and business. He will lead all legal matters across the Institute, ensuring governance, compliance, intellectual property strategy, and partnerships support the Institute's mission to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.
AMS Science Preview: Volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air
Recent research reveals that volcanic eruptions can cause unpredictable weather patterns, including volcanic rain, dust storms, and unstable Antarctic air. The study also found that the Antarctic surface atmosphere has become less stable and more prone to gravity waves since the 1950s.
Behind the 2025 “shroom boom” hides a bad trip
The article highlights the mismatch between psychedelics and economic drug development principles. Pharmaceutical companies are developing short-acting compounds and neuroplastogens to engineer trips out of the experience altogether. Dr. Sandy Hager's research suggests investors should remain cautious due to weak intellectual property ...
Association for Molecular Pathology honors Michael Laposata with Champion for Innovation Award
The Association for Molecular Pathology recognized Dr. Laposata's contributions to clinical laboratory practice and his role in challenging the FDA's rule on laboratory-developed test regulation. The award preserves diagnostic innovation, ensures patient access, and avoids escalating healthcare costs.
Study finds group reflective practice beneficial to planning commissions, staff, yet rarely used
A study by Bonnie Johnson at the University of Kansas found that group reflective practice among planning commissioners and staff improves services and reduces stress. The researchers explored the use of unconventional formats for staff reports to facilitate discussions about their work.
Critical raw materials are a vital new currency; Europe’s e-waste is the vault
Critical raw materials are projected to grow from 1 million tonnes in 2022 to between 1.2 and 1.9 million tonnes by 2050. Europe can recover more of these essential materials by improving collection, design, and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment.
Farmed totoaba could curb poaching
Researchers find that farmed totoaba could alleviate poaching pressures by establishing a regulated trade. The study suggests that a market-based solution may be more effective than a regulatory approach in curbing poaching. A $6 million subsidy program could make farming cheaper and prevent further decline of the wild population.
MPs and public overestimate time left for climate action, study finds
A study found that UK MPs and the public overestimated the time needed for global greenhouse emissions to peak. Labour MPs were more likely to know the correct answer than Conservative MPs. The researchers suggest that institutions like the IPCC need to improve communication about climate change to policymakers and the public.
Vietnam’s food environment is changing fast. Policy needs to catch up
Vietnam's food environments are transforming, with modern retail and processed foods becoming increasingly prevalent. The country's policy response has not kept pace with these changes, leading to rising rates of childhood overweightedness and obesity. Experts recommend aligning incentives and capacity to make healthy diets the easier ...
‘Capture strategies’ are harming efforts to save our planet warns scientists
A new study reveals how powerful industries are quietly shaping laws, research, and public messaging in ways that delay environmental and health action. The study calls for stronger conflict of interest rules and greater transparency in funding to safeguard against negative influence.
Conflicts of interest on CDC vaccine panel were at historic lows before RFK Jr. dismissal
A new study finds reported conflicts of interest on CDC vaccine panels had been at historic lows for years before Kennedy's dismissal. The type of conflict typically considered most concerning, income from vaccine makers, was virtually eliminated among panel members.
The Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics to track impact of plastic production and pollution on human health
The Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics monitors the effects of plastic pollution on human health, citing $1.5 trillion in annual economic losses. Researchers track the life cycle of plastics to identify key drivers of harm, including production, use, and disposal.
FAU Harbor Branch receives $1M grant to study gulf’s mesophotic coral habitats
Researchers will study how ocean currents and nutrients from land influence the health and productivity of MCEs, which support diverse marine life and important fisheries. The project aims to fill critical knowledge gaps and provide science-based solutions for environmental protection and sustainable growth in the gulf region.
Study highlights major hurdles for multinational clinical trials in Europe
A new study highlights major hurdles for multinational clinical trials in Europe, including differences in timelines and processing times between countries. Researchers found that the UK made significant gains in efficiency during the pandemic, while non-UK countries lagged behind.
Over confidence in finance bosses leads to environmental rule-breaking
A study of nearly 600 US companies over 17 years found that firms in states with stakeholder-focused laws are better at avoiding environmental issues. CFOs' personalities, especially if they're overconfident, can lead to risky decisions harming both the environment and the company.
Why do regulatory firms sometimes underperform?
A study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that regulatory firms may underperform due to ingroup bias, favoring domestic clients over foreign ones. However, inspectors' professionalism reduces this bias, leading to more uniform enforcement of regulations across entities.
Even without feds, states can take meaningful action on climate change
A new study found that state-led climate action can reduce carbon emissions by up to 46% by 2050, with different technologies adopted in each state. State-led efforts would focus on industrial decarbonization, while federally coordinated efforts rely more on clean energy production.
Formaldehyde releasers found in common personal care products
A new study reveals that over half of Black and Latina women reported using personal care products with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, highlighting critical safety gaps in product regulation. The study found that these chemicals are present in a wide range of products, including shampoo, lotions, and eyelash glue.
4th Annual MPS World Summit to bring together global experts advancing microphysiological systems research
The 4th Annual MPS World Summit brings together over 1,500 international experts to explore advancements in Microphysiological Systems (MPS) research. This event focuses on drug and chemical safety, disease modeling, and regulatory testing.
Novel image-based model enhances the detection of surface defects in low-light industrial settings
A new end-to-end framework, DarkAD, enhances anomaly detection in low-light environments by introducing a feature adapter that reduces noise and amplifies critical features. The model outperforms other state-of-the-art models in detecting subtle anomalies with high accuracy and speed.
Former DOJ officials suggest antitrust attention, action to address concerning traits of health care conglomerates
Experts argue that large health care platforms are exhibiting concerning traits similar to big tech, including monopoly power, reduced innovation, and increased costs. They recommend antitrust attention and action to prevent further consolidation and promote vigorous competition.
Could opioid laws help curb domestic violence? New USF research says yes
A new study led by the University of South Florida reveals a correlation between opioid misuse and domestic violence, with opioid control programs contributing to a 10% reduction in simple assaults. The effect was strongest in states with higher opioid prescription rates.
Study identifies U.S. hotspots for drinking water quality violations and lack of access to safe, clean water
A study mapped US counties with high rates of water system violations and inequalities in access to safe drinking water. Counties in West Virginia, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania ranked among the top 10 for violations, while Mississippi, South Dakota, and Texas topped the list for water injustice.
Marine shipping emissions on track to meet 2030 goals, but expected to miss 2050 target
New study suggests marine shipping emissions will decrease by 30-40% by 2030 compared to 2008 levels, but may not meet net-zero goal for 2050. The International Maritime Organization has approved new emission reduction policies.
New AI tool makes sense of public opinion data in minutes, not months
The Deep Computational Text Analyser (DECOTA) is an open-access AI tool that transforms open-ended survey responses into clear themes in minutes, not months. Developed by the University of Bath, DECOTA delivers insights around 380 times faster and over 1,900 times cheaper than human analysis.
Fees can help the FDA ensure food safety
A new analysis suggests that fees for food companies could generate much-needed resources for the FDA to strengthen its oversight of foods and keep unsafe ingredients out of the market. The FDA's current lack of resources hampers its ability to ensure the safety of the country's food supply, with growing concerns about the agency's ina...
Household electricity three times more expensive than upcoming ‘eco-friendly’ aviation e-fuels, study reveals
A new study published in Climate Policy highlights the significant cost disparity between household electricity and e-fuel for long-distance mobility. The research shows that the wealthiest 1% of EU citizens are responsible for 66% of air travel, while the majority emit less than 0.1 ton of CO2 equivalent emissions per year.
Some nicotine pouch flavors much more addictive than others
A recent study investigated the effects of different flavor enhancers on nicotine preference and oral choice behavior in rats. The research found that sweeteners, particularly saccharin, increased nicotine consumption in female rats, while flavors like cinnamon had a greater impact on male rats.
Adopting zero-emission trucks and buses could save lives, prevent asthma in Illinois
Adopting zero-emission vehicles in Illinois could significantly improve air quality, reducing nitrogen dioxide pollution by half. This would lead to a decrease in premature deaths and new cases of childhood asthma, with the greatest benefits seen in neighborhoods currently experiencing high levels of pollution.
New data capture laws since 1849 governing minors’ legal capacity to consent to sexual health services
A new dataset captures over 170 years of US state laws governing minors' legal capacity to independently consent to sexual health services without parental involvement. This increase in states allowing minors to consent has substantial limitations, including complexity and neglect of confidentiality concerns.
Study points the way to developing the Amazon bioeconomy
A recent study on the governance of public policy in the Brazilian state of Amazonas recommends an experimentalist governance system that integrates local efforts and values traditional knowledge. The approach prioritizes the conservation of ecosystems while promoting socio-economic development and attracting investment to the region.
Weathering the storm: Professor’s new book explores how local governments can adapt and recover from natural disasters
A new book by Komla Dzigbede explores the ability of local governments to learn, adapt, and innovate in the face of major crises. The book analyzes disaster preparedness, response, and economic development post-disaster, offering practical lessons for local leaders.
Pledge to phase out toxic lead ammunition in UK hunting by 2025 has failed
A voluntary pledge made by UK shooting organisations in 2020 to replace lead shot with non-toxic alternatives has failed, analysis by Cambridge researchers reveals. The team found that lead shot was not being phased out quickly enough to achieve a complete voluntary transition by 2025.
A third of children worldwide forecast to be obese or overweight by 2050
A third of children and adolescents will be overweight or obese within the next 25 years, according to a new study. The global obesity rate for those between 5-24 years old tripled from 1990 to 2021, rising by 244 per cent to 174 million.
Researchers call for ban on toxic chemicals in plastics
Researchers are calling for a reduction in toxic chemicals used in plastics manufacturing and a complete ban of hazardous chemicals. The study highlights the need for improved reporting, transparency, and regulation of chemicals throughout the plastics life cycle.
Research shows restricting flavored e-cigarettes cuts vaping rates but raises smoking rates for young adults
A recent study from the University of Missouri and Yale University found that restricting flavored e-cigarettes leads to a decrease in vaping among young adults. However, this restriction also increases traditional cigarette smoking among young adults compared to states without such restrictions.
Illegal market would dampen effects of menthol cigarette ban
A new study suggests that a menthol cigarette ban could be less effective due to the emergence of an illegal market. The research found that demand for menthol cigarettes would remain high even with limited access to e-cigarettes, leading to a significant black market. This could blunt the intended public health benefits of the ban.
Americans willing to pay nearly $100 billion to reduce gun violence
A new study finds Americans are willing to pay nearly $100 billion for policies that reduce gun violence by 20%. The research, conducted by Duke University and the University of Chicago, shows widespread support from all demographics for stronger intervention. With a national WTP estimate of $97.6 billion, Americans are willing to inve...
Consumer stress over grocery prices stands at midpoint
The average grocery price stress level rating is 5.1, with low- and middle-income households reporting higher stress levels. Most consumers believe the government has moderate influence over food prices, with 80% familiar with the tariffs concept.
Majority support moderation on social media platforms
A global survey of 13,500 people in six European countries and the USA reveals that a majority want harmful social media content restricted. The study highlights differences among countries, with some nations supporting stricter regulations than others.
How to avoid the next crypto collapse: a new study unveils the factors behind cryptocurrency exchange failures
A new study from the University of Vaasa identifies transparency, centralisation, territorial access, fee structures, and referral schemes as risk factors in cryptocurrency exchanges. Decentralised exchanges have a lower probability of failure compared to centralised platforms due to their distributed structure.
The ISSCR announces new Lawrence Goldstein Science Policy Fellows
The ISSCR has appointed Lizhong Liu, Kate MacDuffie, and Mubeen Goolam as the third cohort of Lawrence Goldstein Science Policy Fellows. The fellows will serve for three years and focus on science policy and advocacy work in regenerative medicine.
Calls to curb invasive species spread via untreated water transfer
Researchers warn of the risks of spreading invasive species via untreated water transfers, which can move between different environments. The study highlights the need for coordinated surveillance and management plans to tackle this threat and conserve freshwater biodiversity.
Tree crops crucial for sustainable development
Researchers emphasize global importance of tree crops for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, while promoting biodiversity conservation and mitigating climate change. Tree crops provide stable habitats, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to greenhouse gas reduction.
Research: Automatic text message alerts would potentially result in U.K. banking customer savings up to $300 million
A study found that automatically enrolling UK banking customers into text message alerts reduces overdrafts and unpaid item charges by 4-19%, resulting in potential savings of £170-£240 million. The researchers suggest this policy could benefit low-income customers, frequent over drafters, and financially vulnerable consumers.
New perspective highlights urgent need for US physician strike regulations
A new study calls for regulatory reforms to address the rising trend of physician strikes in the US, citing international best practices as a solution. The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute researchers highlight the need to balance the rights of physicians with patient safety.