bigbio/pubhealth · Datasets at Hugging Face

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1803	10176	Doctors hope newer versions of artificial ankles will better mimic nature’s joint	This news story attempts to explain the treatment options available for people who have severely disabling pain caused by osteoarthritis of the ankle. The article is generously sprinkled with both hope and caveats about the newest generation of ankle replacement implants intended to improve life for people like patient Dan Sivia: “Specialists hope… although it’s too soon to be sure.” “If the newer implants pan out…” “There is little research to tell how long newer versions will last…” Despite this attempt at even-handedness, however, readers are left with a fuzzy understanding of the potential harms of ankle replacements, little hard data about their potential benefits, virtually no understanding of the quality of the evidence on this topic, and no mention of a key source’s potential conflicts of interest. Are there any randomized trials comparing 3rd-generation ankle replacement to nonsurgical treatments or fusion or any other treatments? If not, are there large cohort studies? Small case series? What are the limitations of the evidence? What exactly do we know about the clinical outcomes of the new implants? What proportion of patients report less pain and improved mobility? How many fail? (See “Quantification of Benefits of Treatment” criterion.) What are the short- and long-terms harms associated with ankle replacement? (See “Harms of Treatment” above.) This is not a simple procedure and complications are an important outcome. What does it mean for an ankle replacement to fail, other than the need for “additional surgeries on your ankle in the future”? Can a failed implant usually be converted to an ankle fusion without problems? (There is some research to suggest that this is often the case.) Given that the new generation of implants were approved in 2005, does that mean there are no published data on their durability beyond a year or two? Is there any precedent in the development of other weight-bearing joint replacements (hip, knee) to suggest that outcomes improve after an implant is re-engineered to “work more like the joint you’re born with?” Is there good research to buttress the contention that the new ankle implants “really mimic a natural ankle”? Is there no expert free of industry conflicts who could provide more than a few words of independent assessment of the newest ankle implants? The absence of such a source is troubling in a story about a medical device with a long history of problems. (See “Sources of Information” criterion.) The story provides good reasons to be cautious. So, in the end, why wasn’t it?	mixture
1804	39234	This eRumor lists a number of different uses for hydrogen peroxide from using it as mouthwash to its alleged value for cleaning sinks. (The full text of the eRumor is at the bottom of this page.)	The Many Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide	mixture
1805	8483	Exclusive: Nurses at Mexico hospital hit by coronavirus say they were told to avoid masks.	Nurses at a public hospital hit by Mexico’s worst coronavirus outbreak were told by their managers not to wear protective masks at the start of the epidemic to avoid sowing panic among patients, nurses and other medical workers said.	true
1806	5255	Massachusetts prison cited for nearly 600 health violations.	State public health regulators say they found nearly 600 health code violations, including dirty or broken toilets, improperly stored food and sinks with discolored or scalding hot water, during an annual inspection at one of the state’s maximum security prisons.	true
1807	3762	Survey shows boom in marijuana vaping among school kids.	About 1 out of 5 high school students in the U.S. say they vaped marijuana in the past year, and its popularity has been booming faster than nicotine vaping, according to a report released Wednesday.	true
1808	7063	Residente worked with scientists to create his new album.	Grammy-winning rapper Residente has some new collaborators on his upcoming album: scientists.	true
1809	30331	TV celebrity and food writer Anthony Bourdain was planning to run an exposé of an pedophile ring at the time of his death.	All of this misreporting was par for the course for Neon Nettle, a notorious fake news site with a predilection for publishing sensationalized and exaggerated (if not completely fabricated) stories about pedophiles. True to form, Neon Nettle added multiple false elements to this particular report to enhance its luridness.	false
1810	6350	Nearly 3,400 Hepatitis A cases reported in Florida in 2019.	Florida health officials say there were nearly 3,400 hepatitis A cases in 2019.	true
1811	8164	As coronavirus takes emotional toll, mental health professionals brace for spike in demand.	For the last few days, unease and paranoia have followed Ann Ostberg like a black cloud, as the coronavirus swept through the United States, reaching all 50 states by this week.	true
1812	35137	Gargling with salt water or Vinegar 'eliminate' the COVID-19 coronavirus from the throat of an infected person's system.	What works for colds is unlikely to help an already-infected person stave off the COVID-19 coronavirus disease.	false
1813	7502	Nigeria confirms 1st case of new virus in sub-Saharan Africa.	Nigerian authorities on Friday confirmed the first case of the new coronavirus in sub-Saharan Africa as the outbreak spread to a region with some of the world’s weakest health systems.	true
1814	36314	Police in Portland, Oregon determined that anti-fascist activists mixed quick-dry concrete and caustic chemicals into milkshakes that were both thrown and consumed.	Did Protesters Throw ‘Concrete Milkshakes’?	false
1815	7508	Doctor’s death highlights dangers on front lines of outbreak.	The death of a doctor who issued an early warning about the new virus in China represents a grim reminder that the first health care workers to recognize new outbreaks are sometimes among their earliest victims.	true
1816	2926	Brain-dead California girl arrives at extended care facility.	A California girl declared brain dead following complications from a tonsillectomy, whose case has prompted debate over when to withdraw life support, has arrived at an undisclosed care facility with her mother, a family spokesman said on Monday.	true
1817	24557	We waterboard, incidentally, hundreds of our own military personnel. They waterboard themselves in training to toughen themselves up.	Duncan Hunter says we have waterboarded our own military as part of training exercises	true
1818	34879	Actor Jimmy Stewart suffered what would in 2019 be diagnosed as PTSD due to his experience as a World War II bomber pilot.	Matzen’s depiction of Stewart’s state of mind as “flak happy” towards the end of World War II (a depiction reflected in Forney’s viral Facebook post) was relatively thinly sourced, and involved only one direct quotation from a person who met the actor at that time.	unproven
1819	12299	One in three people who’s receiving treatment for (opioid) drug problems gets some help from Medicaid to pay for that.	Warren said that one in three people receiving treatment for opioid addiction were covered by Medicaid, basing her estimate on 34 percent of people with opioid use disorder. The number was higher when we looked at only those receiving treatment: 39 percent. So while the numbers differ slightly, one in three is still a fair estimate.	true
1820	1773	Montana to give bison from Yellowstone to tribes instead of zoos.	An Indian reservation in Montana will receive 145 bison from Yellowstone National Park that were quarantined to create a herd free of a disease that threatens ranchers’ cattle, according to a government plan approved on Thursday.	true
1821	25896	Majority Forward Says Sen. Thom Tillis “doesn’t think restaurant workers should have to wash their hands.”	A new television ad by Majority Forward PAC says U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) “doesn’t think restaurant workers should have to wash their hands.” The ad doesn't provide context for the comments, which Tillis made in 2015. Tillis was making a point about regulations, not offering his opinion on whether workers should wash their hands.	false
1822	12875	"""Just last year, alone, 710 police officers"""" were assaulted in New York state."""	"""Golden said, """"Just last year alone, 710 police officers … were assaulted in this state."""" Golden relied on FBI data that does not include assaults on officers from New York City. Golden undercounted, but his point is not lost: The number of reported assaults on law enforcement officers is significant. His statement needs clarification and additional information."""	true
1823	32265	"""Hillary Clinton and/or members of her 2008 presidential campaign started the """"birther"""" movement questioning whether Barack Obama was born in the U.S."""	The conspiracy theory was already fully formed at this point. Clearly, the Clinton supporters accused of spreading it via forwarded e-mails knew “good ammo” when they saw it, but, as the above posts show, they deserve neither credit nor blame for the invention of birtherism.	false
1824	22157	"""Arianna Huffington Says although the unemployment rate seems to be improving, it does not reflect real job creation -- it’s caused by a """"shrinking of the actual labor force."""	Arianna Huffington says unemployment gains are actually from shrinking workforce, not job creation	true
1825	24107	A lot of the ideas in terms of the (health insurance) exchange, just being able to pool and improve the purchasing power of individuals in the insurance market, that originated from the Heritage Foundation.	Obama says Heritage Foundation is source of health exchange idea	true
1826	15510	Georgia residents file the most insurance claims for lightning strikes in the country.	State Farm says Georgia residents file the most claims for lightning strikes in the country. There’s evidence this has been the case last year and the two previous years.	true
1827	37413	Army veteran Jerry Holliman's legs were repossessed because the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) refused to pay for them.	Were an Army Veteran’s Prosthetic Legs ‘Repossessed’ After a VA and Medicare Dispute?	mixture
1828	26809	Viral image Says it’s “OK to kill babies once born” in Virginia.	Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam made confusing comments in 2019 about abortions when a mother is about to go into labor, but this Facebook post overreaches by claiming that killing newborns is legal in that state.	false
1829	7823	Scientists find how 'obesity gene' makes people fat.	Scientists have unraveled how a gene long associated with obesity makes people fat by triggering increased hunger, opening up potential new ways to fight a growing global health problem.	true
1830	1984	Beaches, parks off limits to New York smokers.	New York City took its smoking prohibition outdoors on Monday, adding the city’s parks and beaches to the list of places where smoking is banned as part of Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s campaign to promote healthy habits.	true
1831	7424	Trump says ‘life and death’ at stake in following guidelines.	President Donald Trump warned Americans to brace for a “hell of a bad two weeks” ahead as the White House projected there could be 100,000 to 240,000 deaths in the U.S. from the coronavirus pandemic even if current social distancing guidelines are maintained.	true
1832	7585	Anxiety in Alaska as endless aftershocks rattle residents.	Seven weeks after a massive earthquake rocked Alaska, aftershocks are still shattering 7-year-old Connor Cartwright’s sense of safety.	true
1833	35343	Churches are required by the local government to record and register lists of attendees for tracking purposes in Kansas City, Missouri.	Liberty Counsel noted this change in a follow-up blog post on May 5, attributing the revision to an “overwhelming public outcry.” A city spokesperson released the following statement regarding the updated guidance:	false
1834	11553	Journal of Surgical Oncology Publishes Study Showing Oncotype DX® DCIS Score™ Result Changes Treatment Recommendations in 30 Percent of DCIS Breast Cancer Patients Physicians Ranked Oncotype DX DCIS Score Most Important Factor in Treatment Planning	DCIS is usually diagnosed from a screening mammogram.This company news release describes a study which found that the Oncotype DX DCIS Score test changed recommendations for radiation treatment among women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) — a condition marked by abnormal, pre-cancerous cells inside the breast. The terminology employed by this news release is likely to be confusing to many readers. The body text includes a description of DCIS as a “non-invasive, indolent form of breast disease ” that often doesn’t progress to breast cancer. But the headline refers unambiguously to “DCIS Breast Cancer.” We think the release could have done a better job of capturing the controversy over the very name for this condition, what it means, and the confusion it causes women. There are also some important gaps in the information provided about the study and the test. The news release doesn’t mention the costs of this new test or acknowledge that the study did not assess clinical outcomes among patients (only changes in treatment recommendations that may or may not be appropriate). The release is also silent on the fact that the study was funded by Genomic Health, Inc, which makes the test, and that the study authors included company employees and researchers who are paid to speak and consult for the company. New tests come on the market all the time, but that doesn’t mean that insurance will cover them or that they will provide a real clinical benefit to patients. Currently, the Oncotype DCIS score is not included in guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and is not uniformly accepted by oncologists as an important test to determine treatment recommendations. There is not enough good-quality evidence to determine if the test provides a benefit, and these new study results are unlikely to change that situation. The NCCN guidelines for DCIS state: “whole breast radiation therapy following lumpectomy reduces recurrence rates in DCIS by about 50%. Approximately half of the recurrences are invasive and half are DCIS. A number of factors determine local recurrence risk: palpable mass, larger size, higher grade, close or involved margins, and age <50 years. If the patient and the physician view the individual risk as “low”, some patients may be treated by excision alone. All data evaluating the three local treatments [lumpectomy with radiation, mastectomy, lumpectomy without radiation] show no differences in patient survival.”	false
1835	32728	Medal of Honor recipient Kyle Carpenter was stripped of his award for failing to complete a minor driving course while on active duty.	Readers familiar with Duffel Blog immediately recognized its satirical intent. However, the brand of humor employed is very specific. Because of this, occasionally Duffel Blog articles can cause confusion on social media. Previous instances in which Duffel Blog material was misidentified as factual include articles reporting that West Point posthumously revoked diplomas of confederate soldiers, the Army adopted a “mandatory divorce” policy to “improve readiness,” Ariana Grande joined ISIS, the USS Gabrielle Giffords would be the Navy’s first “gun-free” warship, and that the Pentagon spent massive amounts of money on Powerball tickets to fund the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.	false
1836	8730	Number of U.S. coronavirus cases of unknown origin climbs to four.	U.S. public health officials said they have identified four “presumptive” coronavirus cases believed to have emerged from community transmission of the infection, signaling a turning point in efforts to contain the disease in the United States.	true
1837	10729	Larger Dose of Zinc Lozenges May Shorten Colds	Here we have a story with lots of facts, but not a coherent message to consumers about whether zinc lozenges are of any benefit in shortening cold symptoms. The title and early comments suggest this single retrospective review of existing research gives evidence that larger doses of zinc are effective, but the author of the study says more research is needed. The story’s own independent voice says this is not conclusive at all. Consumers are left without the context to evaluate this latest report. One researcher estimates that Americans spend about $40 billion per year on both over-the-counter treatments and visits to the doctor for the common cold. No wonder that any new publication should gain wide attention, but the new study (examining old studies) concluded “The effects of zinc lozenges should be further studied to determine the optimal lozenge compositions…” This story shortchanges the consumer by presenting information without much context. It exaggerates the evidence and implies that zinc is an answer.	mixture
1838	7372	Soccer clubs contemplating options for season ticket holders.	Many soccer clubs in Europe are still contemplating how to reimburse their season ticket holders amid the coronavirus pandemic.	true
1839	18225	Stephen Nodine Says he can be on the ballot for Congress while serving time in jail.	"""Nodine claimed that he """"can run"""" for office. As a legal matter, he is correct. The Constitution enshrines the idea that the people get to decide who shall represent them, and the only limits are age, citizenship and residency. In terms of federal law, Nodine can indeed run. His desire to run as a Republican puts him in murkier waters. Political parties enjoy a certain independence. The opinions of the legal experts we reached ranged from thumbs up to thumbs down on Nodine’s chances in court. But even on the more optimistic end, the court battles would be decided long after the election Nodine cares about is over. In the broadest sense, Nodine has the legal right to run for office from jail, but significant barriers lie between that right and his name appearing on the ballot."""	true
1840	10713	Here’s how a five-day diet that mimics fasting may ‘reboot’ the body and reduce cancer risk	The story is about a USC study that links partial fasting for five days each month to a number of health benefits. But it fails to quantify those benefits in any way and fails to note that two of the researchers have potential conflicts of interest when promoting this line of research. The story receives 0 out of 5 stars — reflecting failure to earn a Satisfactory rating on any of the 7 applicable criteria. The benefits of fasting are well known, but so too are the risks. This study offers what may be a happy medium — a diet that is linked to health benefits, yet one that appears safe and, perhaps, may be easier to follow.	false
1841	7478	Schumer calls on VA to explain use of unproven drug on vets.	The Senate’s top Democrat on Sunday called on the Department of Veterans Affairs to explain why it allowed the use of an unproven drug on veterans for the coronavirus, saying patients may have been put at unnecessary risk.	true
1842	11464	Gene Therapy Shows Potential Against Heart Failure	Are we really going to report commonly now when early research moves from one phase into another? What researchers announced was that a year after a very small number of heart failure patients were given a type of gene therapy intended to improve how their heart muscles manage calcium cycling there appear to be enough indications of relative benefits and safety to move ahead to a phase 3 trial that would be capable of providing more reliable evidence of clinical effects. What’s more, the key conclusions of this trial were announced at another heart failure meeting last summer. This presentation just updated the statistics with a few more months of data. Instead of asking probing questions of researchers, the story relies on quotes from a news release. Instead of getting comments from independent sources that illuminate the specific strengths and weaknesses of this trial, the story just passes along general statements about heart failure and the preliminary nature of research. At least the story discloses the use of prepared statements and it notes that the company developing this gene therapy funded the trial. Earlier reports about this trial highlighted questions about the statistical methods used by the researchers in this trial… and words of caution about reading too much into the findings. This story could have done a better job explaining to readers that this trial was capable only of determining whether or not this gene therapy is ready for the next phase of testing – and that it cannot settle questions about whether the therapy is safe and effective.	false
1843	6298	Long-hidden toxic waste endangers Serbia’s health, EU status.	Dozens of rusty barrels and plastic tubs filled with a dark, oily liquid cluttered a muddy yard where chickens roamed. More brimming containers packed a wooden barn.	true
1844	10549	Colonoscopy may miss more than 7 percent of cancers	"""The story puts the numbers right in the headline and follows up with more numbers in the lead. The story hits most of our marks and does an especially good job making use of independent voices. We would have liked to see more use of absolute numbers to help readers understand whether, on balance, colonoscopy is still a good way to detect cancer. As the story notes, colon cancer is the second leading killer among all cancers in the US. Detecting it early can save thousands of lives. If there are flaws in the way these screenings are being applied, they need to be documented and remedied. This story does a great job of showing both the flaws and some of the potential solutions. Consumers also should be aware that having a normal colonoscopy does not """"guarantee"""" them they are free of colon cancer for the 10 year interval until the next recommended screening."""	true
1845	18042	"""Of the roughly 15 percent of Americans who don’t have health insurance, """"half of them made more than $50,000 a year."""	"""Paul said that of the roughly 15 percent of Americans who don’t have health insurance, """"half of them made more than $50,000 a year."""" In reality, if you measure what individuals make, Census data shows that 28 percent of uninsured Americans earn $50,000. By another measure, using household income, almost 38 percent of uninsured Americans earn at least $50,000. Both of these figures are pretty far from the 50 percent Paul cited in the interview."""	false
1846	1694	France bans super-skinny models in anorexia clampdown.	France will ban excessively thin fashion models and expose modeling agents and the fashion houses that hire them to possible fines and even jail, under a new law passed on Friday.	true
1847	29151	New York City is set to ban hot dogs and processed meats in an effort to combat climate change.	"""What's true: New York City announced a """"Green New Deal"""" in April 2019 that would reduce the amount of processed meat purchased by government-run facilities such as hospitals, schools, and correctional facilities. What's false: New York City did not ban hot dogs outright. Restaurants, hot-dog stands, grocery stores, and other privately owned businesses will still be able to sell hot dogs."""	false
1848	5741	California Assembly committee backs vaccine exemption law.	A California Assembly committee backed new rules for vaccination exemptions on Thursday following a raucous, hours-long hearing in the midst of a national measles outbreak and renewed scrutiny of immunization policies.	true
1849	40889	There were 32 deaths from suicide in Ireland in August.	It’s too soon to know this figure as only a coroner can officially rule a death as a suicide, but this figure is realistic looking at past data.	false
1850	28448	So far in 2018, the number of U.S. students killed in school shootings is greater than the number of U.S. military personnel who have been killed on active duty.	What's true: The number of U.S. students killed in school shootings so far this year is greater than the number of U.S. military personnel who have been killed in combat operations. What's false: The number of active duty U.S. military personnel killed from all causes so far this year (including training accidents) is greater than the number of people (including adults) killed in school shootings.	mixture
1851	8292	U.S. to start antibody testing of sailors on coronavirus-hit aircraft carrier.	The U.S. Navy said on Friday it will conduct antibody testing of sailors aboard the coronavirus-hit aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt to determine whether they were exposed to the virus as it spread through the ship.	true
1852	7480	Plan to use malaria drug in Mumbai slums temporarily shelved.	A plan to give the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine to thousands of people in Mumbai’s crowded slums to prevent coronavirus infections has temporarily been shelved, officials said Wednesday.	true
1853	7035	Canadian mining firm threatens to suspend Greece investment.	Canadian mining company Eldorado Gold on Monday threatened to suspend a major investment in Greece in 10 days, accusing the government of delaying permits and licenses.	true
1854	6833	States, military clash on cleanup of toxic chemicals.	The U.S. Department of Defense has quietly begun battling environmental regulators in several states, after the agencies attempted to force the military to clean toxic firefighting chemicals from polluted streams, marshes and aquifers. The efforts mark the opening acts of what could turn into a nationwide war on legal liabilities, which the Pentagon estimates could reach into billions of dollars as it investigates the presence of the chemicals at hundreds of bases across all 50 states.	true
1855	10832	Now what do I do? Suddenly women in their 40s must ponder whose mammography advice to follow	News of the new recommendations from the US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) stating that average risk women need not start regular mammography screening until age 50 has exploded all over the media. The timing of the issuing of the new guidelines at the time of great debate in health care reform has many women wondering if this is an attempt by the government to contain costs or somehow deny preventative services. In fact, the new statement by the USPSTF is not actually new. There are no new data or studies that have been published recently that provided the impetus for the new recommendations. Rather, this is a culmination of years of research and taking a bold new look at our familiar mantra that early detection is better. We all like to believe we have control, but truth is that we have been oversold on the benefits of mammography. The new recommendations will not deny mammograms to women who want them, women in their 40’s will still be able to get screened and insurance companies have emphasized that they will still be covered. Women who are at high risk, such as those with a family history or African-American women, who tend to get more aggressive forms of breast cancer, will still get offered regular screening. But for those women at average risk, the new guidelines state that it is reasonable to wait to start screening until age 50. This story does a good job of describing the potential harms of mammography screening, including needless procedures and stress and anxiety from false positive results. The story quotes multiple sources who provide valuable contrasting perspectives. The story could have been improved by describing the costs or insurance coverage for mammograms and if or how this recommendation might affect insurance coverage. Nor does the story discuss the evidence for the new recommendations. Readers would want to know if this is based on new results or just a new look at the same studies. Finally, the story does not adequately quantify the benefits or harms of mammography. The representative of the American Cancer Society provides the number needed to screen, which is very helpful, but this should have come from a source that is more objective. A reader might also want to know the false-positive rate for mammography. The story seems to suggest that the recommendation was to not have screening without presenting the second part of the recommendation – that “The decision to start regular, biennial screening mammography before the age of 50 years should be an individual one and take patient context into account, including the patient’s values regarding specific benefits and harms.” The framing that this is about withholding needed care seems misguided. In the end, the new recommendations emphasize that deciding when to start screening is a DECISION that women can make on their own, in consultation with their doctors. One good thing that may come out of the confusion is that women will more openly discuss the pros and cons of screening with their doctors.	true
1856	23242	"""Harry Reid """"voted to use taxpayer dollars to pay for Viagra for convicted child molesters and sex offenders."""	Sharron Angle attacks Harry Reid over giving sex offenders taxpayer-subsidized Viagra	false
1857	1689	A dog's life: study reveals people's hormonal link with tail-waggers.	Dogs are called “man’s best friend” - women’s, too - and scientists say the bond between people and their pooches may be deeper than you might think.	true
1858	9153	First large-scale population analysis reinforces ketamine's reputation as antidepressant	In this study of the effect of the anesthetic drug ketamine on depression, researchers at University of California – San Diego data-mined the FDA Adverse Effect Reporting System database for information on ketamine use for pain relief. Their analysis found an association between ketamine and reduced incidence of depression. However, the absence of depression the researchers found in 41,000 people (out of 8 million entries in the database) taking ketamine for pain relief in no way proves ketamine is responsible for the lack of depression. The release and the study it’s based on stand on a very shaky foundation. The release’s only nod to caution about the findings is an acknowledgement that the effect of ketamine on depression could be due to an “unidentified” factor. But it does not mention the problems with this retrospective, data-mining study, the main one being that the absence of a symptom (depression) does not equate to the drug alleviating the symptom. No mention is made of the fact that the data were not collected for the purpose for which the researchers used them or the fact that there are no medical histories attached to the subjects included in the study. According to the World Health Organization, more than 300 million people experience depression worldwide. The suffering due to depression can be severe, and affect families, co-workers and friends of the person with the diagnosis. Most anti-depression medications take weeks if not months to reach full effect, and many patients quit taking the drugs before they reach full effectiveness. Patients with acute depression or suicidal intentions need drugs that will work more rapidly. Because anti-depression medications do not work for everyone, an effective intervention that might work quickly would be beneficial. There’s a lot of better-designed research underway on ketamine and its safety and usefulness in treating depression. Readers would be best served waiting for stronger evidence to emerge before drawing conclusions.	false
1859	2909	Intercept liver drug meets main goal in study, shares quadruple.	Intercept Pharmaceuticals Inc’s drug to treat liver disease caused by fat buildup was found effective in a trial, paving the way for it to become the first approved treatment for the chronic condition.	true
1860	8470	With cheers, New York nurses greet reinforcements from across the U.S.	With loud cheers and applause, medical staff at New York’s Northwell Health network greeted 46 nurses on Tuesday who had arrived from all over the United States to reinforce hospitals as they battle the coronavirus pandemic.	true
1861	10990	More Options Before Bypass Surgery, Study Finds	The piece gave readers some powerful information to help them sort through the range of factors that should be considered for any medical intervention. The only weakness our reviewers found with the story is the lack of comment about cost. Too often stories present medical options as false choices of best versus worst. They don’t take into consideration the very real differences between patients’ medical histories, diagnoses and expectations. This story should be applauded for giving readers a clear understanding of the complexities of shared decision-making between providers and patients. As noted by one of the experts quoted in the story, “You don’t have a good therapy and a bad therapy, you have a choice.” This is a message that the story gets across very well and is an important one for readers.	true
1862	38836	Johnson & Johnson has removed formaldehyde from baby products like No More Tears shampoo.	Johnson & Johnson Removes Formaldehyde from Baby Products.	true
1863	8594	Swiss urge public to stick to anti-virus measures over Easter.	Switzerland’s president called on the public to stick with emergency measures designed to halt the spread of the new coronavirus, saying on Tuesday the country remains “very far from normal” ahead of the long Easter weekend.	true
1864	3978	Wasting disease detected in 4 deer on Crow Wing County farm.	Chronic wasting disease has been detected in four deer at a quarantined farm in Crow Wing County.	true
1865	9750	'Play This Video Game And Call Me In The Morning'	This story about video games being tested as therapies for cognitive disorders is better than its star score indicates. The focus of the story is primarily on the standards that should be used to evaluate and regulate such video games, rather than the evidence, or lack thereof, that this sort of game could have therapeutic value. Nevertheless, the story passes along several claims about these games that lead the reader to believe that there will be some discussion of the evidence that backs them. But apart from a skeptical comment toward the end and a link to previous story addressing the issue, the hoped-for analysis doesn’t materialize. Which is not to suggest that the story doesn’t deliver a significant amount of valuable information. Readers are treated to the perspective of a number of different players in the technology, health care, and drug industries — and what they have to say about the regulation of such possible therapies is fascinating. Among the interesting questions raised: Can the years-long FDA approval process keep up with a technology that’s changing every six months? And what problems occur when you try to apply that methodical, evidence-based process to such a fast-moving area of technology? The rules of the game often determine the outcome. For example, sales of nutritional supplements are far higher than they would be if purveyors were subject to regulations similar to those the FDA applies to pharmaceuticals. This story helps educate readers about the battlefield terrain and the objectives of those who promote or resist the use of video games as therapy for cognitive disorders.	false
1866	35577	The address used for the home of the SpongeBob SquarePants character corresponds to a location on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's privately owned island.	Hundreds of thousands of false listings sprout on Google Maps each month, according to experts. Google says it catches many others before they appear.	false
1867	11628	Oral multiple sclerosis drug shows promise	"""LA Times blog headline: """"Oral multiple sclerosis drug shows promise."""" AP story headline: """"MS pills show promise and risk."""" Two huge differences should jump out at you. AP mentioned pills – plural – because two drugs were reported on in this week’s NEJM. And AP mentioned risks right along with harms. The blog entry ran only 305 words, compared with more than 700 for the AP story. We needed the extra words because they provided needed context and balance. Studies on two MS drugs were published in NEJM this week. Why did the LA Times blog feature only one?"""	false
1868	7654	In crackdown, U.S. FDA seeks details on new electronic cigarettes.	Faced with a proliferation of new electronic cigarettes and a sharp rise in teen vaping, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday sent letters to 21 electronic cigarette manufacturers seeking information to assess whether the products are being marketed illegally.	true
1869	27944	A girl on an amusement park ride was scalped when her hair got caught in the attraction's machinery.	Girl on an amusement park ride is scalped when her hair gets caught in the attraction's machinery?	true
1870	10969	Exelixis drug slows prostate cancer spread in trial	The story provides the reader with a confused and often contradictory profile of interim findings of a study reported in abstract at a big scientific conference. The American Society of Clinical Oncology conference fosters a lot of rush-to-publication among journalists. This story was an example of what an empty exercise that can sometimes be.	false
1871	10555	Pain Relief for Some, With an Odd Tradeoff	"""This story delivers some important information about how spinal stimulation devices have been investigated for use in chronic pain. But it does not make clear that the study upon which the story is based concerned patients for whom an initial surgery had failed. The story suggests that the procedure might be an alternative to initial surgery. The story also mentions complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) as an indication for use of the device. But the study did not address this condition. Radicular pain – so-called """"neuropathic pain"""" in the source study is not CRPS. Some of this framing conveys a message that is too bold while the jury is not yet in. The story does accurately characterize the evidence about the device’s partial effectiveness and potential disadvantages. It includes interviews with four sources, and mentions conflicts of interest. Though the story mentions problems some people have with spinal stimulators, it overlooks some important ones, including infection and device migration. (See “Harms of Treatment’ above.) Importantly, it also neglects to point out the consensus view among pain experts that this is a treatment of last resort—to be used only after everything else has failed, including surgery."""	mixture
1872	7494	Congo, weary from Ebola, must also battle the coronavirus.	Congo has been battling an Ebola outbreak that has killed thousands of people for more than 18 months, and now it must also face a new scourge: the coronavirus pandemic.	true
1873	13499	"""Tim Kaine Says Hillary Clinton and millennials have the same positions on climate change, abortion rights, immigration reform, gay rights and college affordability. """"Donald Trump doesn't."""	"""Kaine said Hillary Clinton and millennials believe in climate change, abortion rights, immigration reform, gay rights and college affordability but """"Donald Trump doesn't."""" Reputable polls back Kaine’s claim, though the VP nominee is overstating the extent of Trump’s opposition to gay rights and college affordability. Millennials agree decisively with Clinton’s position on immigration, gay rights and college affordability, and by narrow margins on climate change and abortion rights."""	true
1874	36320	Proof exists that Rep. Ilhan Omar married her brother.	There Is No Credible Evidence Rep. Ilhan Omar Married Her Brother	false
1875	9811	Study clouds evidence on soy and menopause	Overall, this story addressed our criteria. The big picture is that this is a small study, funded by pharma that showed a benefit for soy. Put in the context of the many randomized clinical trials that have looked at this issue over the past decade, there are questions about this finding, and the story puts those doubts in readers’ minds. Many women may not feel comfortable taking hormone replacement therapy to relieve symptoms of menopause, but are interested in something to reduce uncomfortable symptoms. However, studies of supplements or over-the-counter remedies need to be conducted in the same populations for which the products are marketed. It’s interesting that this study in China showed a benefit. Historically, anthropologic studies of Asian women have reported that they don’t tend to report hot flashes. Whether this is due to high estrogen in the diet (e.g., soy) or to cultural/communication factors is not known. Multiple randomized clinical trials in the US and Europe have showed no benefit from soy despite many attempts to find one.	true
1876	14225	"""Bernie Sanders Says an array of statistics show that conditions in some parts of Baltimore rival that of """"the West Bank in Palestine,"""" """"North Korea,"""" and """"distressed cities in Nigeria, India, China and South Africa."""	"""Sanders presented a series of comparisons showing that conditions in some parts of Baltimore rivaled that of """"the West Bank in Palestine,"""" """"North Korea,"""" and """"distressed cities in Nigeria, India, China and South Africa. Some of Sanders’ figures need to be updated, but the gist of his specific comparisons are accurate: 12 Baltimore neighborhoods have a lower life expectancy than North Korea; 11 have a higher infant mortality rate than the West Bank; and research shows health conditions are worse for poor teens than in Baltimore than in Ibadan, New Delhi and Shanghai."""	true
1877	2906	Sangamo to develop blood disorder drugs with Biogen.	Sangamo Biosciences Inc said it would collaborate with Biogen Idec Inc to develop treatments for a group of inherited blood disorders in a deal for up to $320 million.	true
1878	5026	Argentine women see legal abortion closer than ever.	Pushed by a wave of demonstrations by women’s groups, the homeland of Pope Francis seems closer than ever to legalizing abortion.	true
1879	2827	Covidien to stop making hypertension devices.	Covidien Plc said it would stop making devices for treating high blood pressure due to weak industry-wide demand.	true
1880	6602	UK jury convicts doctor of performing unnecessary surgeries.	A prominent breast surgeon whose victims accused him of playing God with their lives faces a life sentence after a jury convicted him Friday of carrying out unnecessary operations that maimed some of his victims for life.	true
1881	8112	Malaysia steps up coronavirus tests as it braces for 'worst scenario'.	Malaysia is ramping up coronavirus tests in preparation for the “worst scenario”, as it grapples with Southeast Asia’s highest number of infections, a health ministry official told Reuters.	true
1882	8613	Chinese masks, or 'blue gold', arrive for Swiss hospitals.	A Boeing 747 landed in Geneva on Monday with 92 tonnes of protective medical equipment including masks made in China for distribution to 13 Swiss hospitals and pharmaceutical associations as they battle the COVID-19 pandemic.	true
1883	29980	Meth in Louisiana is contaminated with the Zika virus.	Police Chief Walker stated that as of the evening of 30 December 2018, no one had brought in meth to the department for testing.	false
1884	29244	The World Health Organization has declared that medical marijuana has no health risks.	What's true: The World Health Organization’s Expert Committee on Drug Dependence announced they considered the non-psychoactive component of cannabis — cannabidiol or CBD — safe enough to justify not scheduling the chemical legally. What's false: The announcement says nothing about cannabis as a whole or about any other potential oils or products derived from cannabis that would contain the psychoactive ingredient THC, and the announcement carries no legal ramifications for United States drug policy.	false
1885	3585	2 puppies euthanized after contact with rabid bats.	Officials say two German shepherd puppies were euthanized after they came into contact with bats that tested positive for rabies in southwestern Washington.	true
1886	5211	Harris, Gillibrand offer plans to bolster maternal care.	Two Democratic women running for president unveiled plans Wednesday to improve maternal health care, with Sen. Kamala Harris reintroducing a bill aimed at addressing racial disparities in childbirth care and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand promising to make adoptions and high-tech fertility treatments more accessible to those who want children.	true
1887	26811	“If you have the Flu… get these two items… Sambucol (and) Oscillococcinum… in 48 hours you will feel better. In 72 hours you will be almost symptom-free.”	These homeopathic supplements have been shown in some small studies to help relieve symptoms of flu and respiratory infection. But there are not enough trials to conclusively call them medications. Doctors agree that Sambucol has the most flu-fighting potential, while there is little evidence that Oscillococcinum can considerably shorten the length of the flu.	false
1888	32262	Pouring Coca-Cola onto a piece of raw pork will cause worms to come crawling out of the meat.	Pouring Coca-Cola onto a piece of raw pork will not cause worms to come crawling out of the meat.	false
1889	15200	Of the 25 wealthiest nations, we're the only one that doesn't provide basic health coverage.	"""Gecker said that """"of the 25 wealthiest nations, we’re the only one that doesn’t provide basic health coverage."""" Gecker was referring to rich nations that provide coverage to all of their citizens. We can’t say definitively that the U.S. is the only one that doesn’t provide universal coverage, but evidence strongly points that way."""	true
1890	37651	Author Malcolm Gladwell said in a January 2020 speech that a statue of former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno should be restored.	Did Malcolm Gladwell Say Penn State Should Restore a Statue of Joe Paterno?	true
1891	7483	South Dakota continues malaria drug trial despite FDA alert.	South Dakota health officials said Friday that they will continue to make a malaria drug widely available to treat COVID-19, even as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned against its use outside of hospital and research settings.	true
1892	8437	Taiwan says donating 2 million face masks to virus-hit Japan.	Taiwan will donate two million face masks to its former colonial master Japan, which has been hard hit by the outbreak of the new coronavirus, as part of the island’s efforts to show it can help the world combat the pandemic.	true
1893	9718	Merck's Keytruda extends survival in lung cancer study	The story reports on new findings from a clinical trial of the drug Keytruda. Specifically, the story says that patients with late-stage lung cancer whose tumors produce a protein called PD-L1 had increased overall survival when taking Keytruda rather than docetaxel, which is is a widely-used drug for treating lung cancer. The story offers little information on how significant the health benefits associated with Keytruda are, what it costs or what its potential harms are. The story claims that more data on the trial findings will be available soon — and, given the paucity of information here, one wonders at the decision not to wait for that additional data. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States, claiming more than 157,000 lives in 2012 alone. Similarly, cancer treatment is big business. The story notes that cancer immunotherapies, such as Keytruda, are expected to bring in annual sales of $20 billion by 2020. But that may be a conservative estimate. One recent estimate from a market research firm set the annual revenue from cancer immunotherapies at more than $80 billion by 2020. Between the health impact and the economic impact, any advances in treatment that can improve health outcomes for patients battling lung cancer is clearly a big story. But rushing to tell the story before all — or even most — of the facts are in can be a dicey business. Doctors and patients are eagerly awaiting news on new therapies. It’s important to give all parties concerned a clear picture, rather than a rushed one.	false
1894	31139	Actor Kirk Cameron has contracted an extremely rare form of leprosy.	If Cameron, who is best known for playing Mike Seaver on the show “Growing Pains”, was truly diagnosed with a rare form of leprosy, legitimate news outlets would certainly report on it. However, the only mention of this alleged diagnosis comes from a well-known purveyor of fake news.	false
1895	3734	South Korea reports 1st possible case of viral pneumonia.	South Korea has put a 36-year-old Chinese woman under isolated treatment amid concerns that she brought back a form of viral pneumonia that has sickened dozens in mainland China and Hong Kong in recent weeks.	true
1896	10871	Study: Advanced Cancer Patients Receiving Early Palliative Care Lived Longer	This post from the Wall Street Journal Health Blog got it right on the big picture but missed some smaller points that might have been addressed in a longer piece. Kudos to the WSJ for doing the best job of reporting on the limitations of this study. A bit more detail on costs and availability would have rounded out the picture for readers. Why is it important to discuss the limitations of a study–even a very good study? Because experience has shown us time and again that any single study can be flawed in ways that may not be fully appreciated at the time of publication. It is the weight of the accumulated evidence — not the findings of any one study — which is important to consider when making decisions about health care.	true
1897	33215	U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry hide a close familial connection to an Iranian official with whom he negotiated a nuclear deal.	Finally, the unsourced statement that “Secretary Kerry and Zarif first met over a decade ago at a dinner party hosted by George Soros at his Manhattan penthouse. What a surprise.” is (even if true) little more than out-of-context innuendo intended to suggest some kind of close pre-negotiation friendship between the two figures without providing any actual evidence of it. Both men have an extensive history of political and diplomatic service to their countries over the last thirty years: Mohammad Javad Zarif lived in and was educated (up to the PhD level) in the United States, served as a member of the Iranian delegation to the United Nations (a position in which he met with a number of Washington politicians), has been a headline speaker at foreign policy conferences in the U.S. (attended by prominent Washington politicians), and has been Iran’s minister of foreign affairs since 2013, while John Kerry served several terms in the U.S. Senate, was the Democratic presidential nominee in 2004, chaired the Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee, and has been U.S. Secretary of State since 2013. It’s hardly a “surprise” to anyone the least bit familiar with the political world that two men who have long held high positions in their countries’ national governments and been closely involved with foreign affairs might have crossed paths at some point prior to their first negotiation as their countries’ official representatives.	false
1898	33355	An unusually high percentage of the child actors who starred in the Our Gang film series have met tragic, premature ends.	Although these percentages may be higher than one would expect to find among the general population, they’re not at all out of line with reasonable expectations given the extremely small sample size (29) used here. One man’s “curse” is another man’s normal cross-section of society.	false
1899	28279	The FBI discovered a terrorist compound in Alabama, as reported in May 2019.	"""What's true: The FBI discovered a property near Tuskegee, AL, that is closely linked to a group of people, mostly U.S. citizens, charged with serious terrorism offenses stemming from the discovery of another compound in New Mexico. According to the FBI, the Alabama property contained a """"military-style obstacle course."""" What's undetermined: Notwithstanding the allegations by federal prosecutors of an overarching, religiously inspired terrorist plot among the group, each of the defendants has pleaded not guilty to all the charges against them, and therefore the nature and purpose of their compounds cannot yet be stated definitively."""	mixture
1900	4094	Appeals court hears Johns Hopkins black lung lawsuit.	A federal appeals court heard arguments Wednesday in a lawsuit filed by the families of coal miners who were denied benefits for black lung disease after a Johns Hopkins doctor insisted their X-rays did not show the disease.	true
1901	20737	For the first time in 13 years, our dependence on foreign oil is below 50 percent.	Barack Obama campaign says U.S. dependence on foreign oil now below 50 percent	mixture
1902	11343	Analysis weighs benefits, risks of Actos	A recent analysis suggests a newer diabetes drug, Actos, may lower risk of death, heart attack, or stroke compared to taking a sugar pill or other types of diabetes drugs. But despite the findings, the story makes it clear that many experts consider these newer types of drugs as second line therapy, due to their higher risk of heart failure and higher costs compared to older drugs that are also effective. The story even includes a quote telling readers that no one is suggesting taking these newer drugs to reduce chance of death, heart attack, or stroke; rather, the analysis was undertaken in an attempt to further understand risk-benefit trade-offs of Actos, particularly in light of recent safety concerns about another drug in the same family (rosiglitazone). The story met most criteria, including describing the type of evidence, costs, availability and novely of the drug, quantifying benefits, and obtaining independent input, or at least describing potential conflicts of interest of sources of information. The story could have been improved with a further discussion of potential harms of treatment (such as quantifying risk of heart failure) and by fully discussing alternate treatment options, including diet, exercise, and weight loss to manage risk factors for diabetes complications.	true

1803

10176

Doctors hope newer versions of artificial ankles will better mimic nature’s joint

This news story attempts to explain the treatment options available for people who have severely disabling pain caused by osteoarthritis of the ankle. The article is generously sprinkled with both hope and caveats about the newest generation of ankle replacement implants intended to improve life for people like patient Dan Sivia: “Specialists hope… although it’s too soon to be sure.” “If the newer implants pan out…” “There is little research to tell how long newer versions will last…” Despite this attempt at even-handedness, however, readers are left with a fuzzy understanding of the potential harms of ankle replacements, little hard data about their potential benefits, virtually no understanding of the quality of the evidence on this topic, and no mention of a key source’s potential conflicts of interest. Are there any randomized trials comparing 3rd-generation ankle replacement to nonsurgical treatments or fusion or any other treatments? If not, are there large cohort studies? Small case series? What are the limitations of the evidence? What exactly do we know about the clinical outcomes of the new implants? What proportion of patients report less pain and improved mobility? How many fail? (See “Quantification of Benefits of Treatment” criterion.) What are the short- and long-terms harms associated with ankle replacement? (See “Harms of Treatment” above.) This is not a simple procedure and complications are an important outcome. What does it mean for an ankle replacement to fail, other than the need for “additional surgeries on your ankle in the future”? Can a failed implant usually be converted to an ankle fusion without problems? (There is some research to suggest that this is often the case.) Given that the new generation of implants were approved in 2005, does that mean there are no published data on their durability beyond a year or two? Is there any precedent in the development of other weight-bearing joint replacements (hip, knee) to suggest that outcomes improve after an implant is re-engineered to “work more like the joint you’re born with?” Is there good research to buttress the contention that the new ankle implants “really mimic a natural ankle”? Is there no expert free of industry conflicts who could provide more than a few words of independent assessment of the newest ankle implants? The absence of such a source is troubling in a story about a medical device with a long history of problems. (See “Sources of Information” criterion.) The story provides good reasons to be cautious. So, in the end, why wasn’t it?

mixture

1804

39234

This eRumor lists a number of different uses for hydrogen peroxide from using it as mouthwash to its alleged value for cleaning sinks. (The full text of the eRumor is at the bottom of this page.)

The Many Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide

mixture

1805

8483

Exclusive: Nurses at Mexico hospital hit by coronavirus say they were told to avoid masks.

Nurses at a public hospital hit by Mexico’s worst coronavirus outbreak were told by their managers not to wear protective masks at the start of the epidemic to avoid sowing panic among patients, nurses and other medical workers said.

true

1806

5255

Massachusetts prison cited for nearly 600 health violations.

State public health regulators say they found nearly 600 health code violations, including dirty or broken toilets, improperly stored food and sinks with discolored or scalding hot water, during an annual inspection at one of the state’s maximum security prisons.

true

1807

3762

Survey shows boom in marijuana vaping among school kids.

About 1 out of 5 high school students in the U.S. say they vaped marijuana in the past year, and its popularity has been booming faster than nicotine vaping, according to a report released Wednesday.

true

1808

7063

Residente worked with scientists to create his new album.

Grammy-winning rapper Residente has some new collaborators on his upcoming album: scientists.

true

1809

30331

TV celebrity and food writer Anthony Bourdain was planning to run an exposé of an pedophile ring at the time of his death.

All of this misreporting was par for the course for Neon Nettle, a notorious fake news site with a predilection for publishing sensationalized and exaggerated (if not completely fabricated) stories about pedophiles. True to form, Neon Nettle added multiple false elements to this particular report to enhance its luridness.

false

1810

6350

Nearly 3,400 Hepatitis A cases reported in Florida in 2019.

Florida health officials say there were nearly 3,400 hepatitis A cases in 2019.

true

1811

8164

As coronavirus takes emotional toll, mental health professionals brace for spike in demand.

For the last few days, unease and paranoia have followed Ann Ostberg like a black cloud, as the coronavirus swept through the United States, reaching all 50 states by this week.

true

1812

35137

Gargling with salt water or Vinegar 'eliminate' the COVID-19 coronavirus from the throat of an infected person's system.

What works for colds is unlikely to help an already-infected person stave off the COVID-19 coronavirus disease.

false

1813

7502

Nigeria confirms 1st case of new virus in sub-Saharan Africa.

Nigerian authorities on Friday confirmed the first case of the new coronavirus in sub-Saharan Africa as the outbreak spread to a region with some of the world’s weakest health systems.

true

1814

36314

Police in Portland, Oregon determined that anti-fascist activists mixed quick-dry concrete and caustic chemicals into milkshakes that were both thrown and consumed.

Did Protesters Throw ‘Concrete Milkshakes’?

false

1815

7508

Doctor’s death highlights dangers on front lines of outbreak.

The death of a doctor who issued an early warning about the new virus in China represents a grim reminder that the first health care workers to recognize new outbreaks are sometimes among their earliest victims.

true

1816

2926

Brain-dead California girl arrives at extended care facility.

A California girl declared brain dead following complications from a tonsillectomy, whose case has prompted debate over when to withdraw life support, has arrived at an undisclosed care facility with her mother, a family spokesman said on Monday.

true

1817

24557

We waterboard, incidentally, hundreds of our own military personnel. They waterboard themselves in training to toughen themselves up.

Duncan Hunter says we have waterboarded our own military as part of training exercises

true

1818

34879

Actor Jimmy Stewart suffered what would in 2019 be diagnosed as PTSD due to his experience as a World War II bomber pilot.

Matzen’s depiction of Stewart’s state of mind as “flak happy” towards the end of World War II (a depiction reflected in Forney’s viral Facebook post) was relatively thinly sourced, and involved only one direct quotation from a person who met the actor at that time.

unproven

1819

12299

One in three people who’s receiving treatment for (opioid) drug problems gets some help from Medicaid to pay for that.

Warren said that one in three people receiving treatment for opioid addiction were covered by Medicaid, basing her estimate on 34 percent of people with opioid use disorder. The number was higher when we looked at only those receiving treatment: 39 percent. So while the numbers differ slightly, one in three is still a fair estimate.

true

1820

1773

Montana to give bison from Yellowstone to tribes instead of zoos.

An Indian reservation in Montana will receive 145 bison from Yellowstone National Park that were quarantined to create a herd free of a disease that threatens ranchers’ cattle, according to a government plan approved on Thursday.

true

1821

25896

Majority Forward Says Sen. Thom Tillis “doesn’t think restaurant workers should have to wash their hands.”

A new television ad by Majority Forward PAC says U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) “doesn’t think restaurant workers should have to wash their hands.” The ad doesn't provide context for the comments, which Tillis made in 2015. Tillis was making a point about regulations, not offering his opinion on whether workers should wash their hands.

false

1822

12875

"""Just last year, alone, 710 police officers"""" were assaulted in New York state."""

"""Golden said, """"Just last year alone, 710 police officers … were assaulted in this state."""" Golden relied on FBI data that does not include assaults on officers from New York City. Golden undercounted, but his point is not lost: The number of reported assaults on law enforcement officers is significant. His statement needs clarification and additional information."""

true

1823

32265

"""Hillary Clinton and/or members of her 2008 presidential campaign started the """"birther"""" movement questioning whether Barack Obama was born in the U.S."""

The conspiracy theory was already fully formed at this point. Clearly, the Clinton supporters accused of spreading it via forwarded e-mails knew “good ammo” when they saw it, but, as the above posts show, they deserve neither credit nor blame for the invention of birtherism.

false

1824

22157

"""Arianna Huffington Says although the unemployment rate seems to be improving, it does not reflect real job creation -- it’s caused by a """"shrinking of the actual labor force."""

Arianna Huffington says unemployment gains are actually from shrinking workforce, not job creation

true

1825

24107

A lot of the ideas in terms of the (health insurance) exchange, just being able to pool and improve the purchasing power of individuals in the insurance market, that originated from the Heritage Foundation.

Obama says Heritage Foundation is source of health exchange idea

true

1826

15510

Georgia residents file the most insurance claims for lightning strikes in the country.

State Farm says Georgia residents file the most claims for lightning strikes in the country. There’s evidence this has been the case last year and the two previous years.

true

1827

37413

Army veteran Jerry Holliman's legs were repossessed because the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) refused to pay for them.

Were an Army Veteran’s Prosthetic Legs ‘Repossessed’ After a VA and Medicare Dispute?

mixture

1828

26809

Viral image Says it’s “OK to kill babies once born” in Virginia.

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam made confusing comments in 2019 about abortions when a mother is about to go into labor, but this Facebook post overreaches by claiming that killing newborns is legal in that state.

false

1829

7823

Scientists find how 'obesity gene' makes people fat.

Scientists have unraveled how a gene long associated with obesity makes people fat by triggering increased hunger, opening up potential new ways to fight a growing global health problem.

true

1830

1984

Beaches, parks off limits to New York smokers.

New York City took its smoking prohibition outdoors on Monday, adding the city’s parks and beaches to the list of places where smoking is banned as part of Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s campaign to promote healthy habits.

true

1831

7424

Trump says ‘life and death’ at stake in following guidelines.

President Donald Trump warned Americans to brace for a “hell of a bad two weeks” ahead as the White House projected there could be 100,000 to 240,000 deaths in the U.S. from the coronavirus pandemic even if current social distancing guidelines are maintained.

true

1832

7585

Anxiety in Alaska as endless aftershocks rattle residents.

Seven weeks after a massive earthquake rocked Alaska, aftershocks are still shattering 7-year-old Connor Cartwright’s sense of safety.

true

1833

35343

Churches are required by the local government to record and register lists of attendees for tracking purposes in Kansas City, Missouri.

Liberty Counsel noted this change in a follow-up blog post on May 5, attributing the revision to an “overwhelming public outcry.” A city spokesperson released the following statement regarding the updated guidance:

false

1834

11553

Journal of Surgical Oncology Publishes Study Showing Oncotype DX® DCIS Score™ Result Changes Treatment Recommendations in 30 Percent of DCIS Breast Cancer Patients Physicians Ranked Oncotype DX DCIS Score Most Important Factor in Treatment Planning

DCIS is usually diagnosed from a screening mammogram.This company news release describes a study which found that the Oncotype DX DCIS Score test changed recommendations for radiation treatment among women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) — a condition marked by abnormal, pre-cancerous cells inside the breast. The terminology employed by this news release is likely to be confusing to many readers. The body text includes a description of DCIS as a “non-invasive, indolent form of breast disease ” that often doesn’t progress to breast cancer. But the headline refers unambiguously to “DCIS Breast Cancer.” We think the release could have done a better job of capturing the controversy over the very name for this condition, what it means, and the confusion it causes women. There are also some important gaps in the information provided about the study and the test. The news release doesn’t mention the costs of this new test or acknowledge that the study did not assess clinical outcomes among patients (only changes in treatment recommendations that may or may not be appropriate). The release is also silent on the fact that the study was funded by Genomic Health, Inc, which makes the test, and that the study authors included company employees and researchers who are paid to speak and consult for the company. New tests come on the market all the time, but that doesn’t mean that insurance will cover them or that they will provide a real clinical benefit to patients. Currently, the Oncotype DCIS score is not included in guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and is not uniformly accepted by oncologists as an important test to determine treatment recommendations. There is not enough good-quality evidence to determine if the test provides a benefit, and these new study results are unlikely to change that situation. The NCCN guidelines for DCIS state: “whole breast radiation therapy following lumpectomy reduces recurrence rates in DCIS by about 50%. Approximately half of the recurrences are invasive and half are DCIS. A number of factors determine local recurrence risk: palpable mass, larger size, higher grade, close or involved margins, and age <50 years. If the patient and the physician view the individual risk as “low”, some patients may be treated by excision alone. All data evaluating the three local treatments [lumpectomy with radiation, mastectomy, lumpectomy without radiation] show no differences in patient survival.”

false

1835

32728

Medal of Honor recipient Kyle Carpenter was stripped of his award for failing to complete a minor driving course while on active duty.

Readers familiar with Duffel Blog immediately recognized its satirical intent. However, the brand of humor employed is very specific. Because of this, occasionally Duffel Blog articles can cause confusion on social media. Previous instances in which Duffel Blog material was misidentified as factual include articles reporting that West Point posthumously revoked diplomas of confederate soldiers, the Army adopted a “mandatory divorce” policy to “improve readiness,” Ariana Grande joined ISIS, the USS Gabrielle Giffords would be the Navy’s first “gun-free” warship, and that the Pentagon spent massive amounts of money on Powerball tickets to fund the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

false

1836

8730

Number of U.S. coronavirus cases of unknown origin climbs to four.

U.S. public health officials said they have identified four “presumptive” coronavirus cases believed to have emerged from community transmission of the infection, signaling a turning point in efforts to contain the disease in the United States.

true

1837

10729

Larger Dose of Zinc Lozenges May Shorten Colds

Here we have a story with lots of facts, but not a coherent message to consumers about whether zinc lozenges are of any benefit in shortening cold symptoms. The title and early comments suggest this single retrospective review of existing research gives evidence that larger doses of zinc are effective, but the author of the study says more research is needed. The story’s own independent voice says this is not conclusive at all. Consumers are left without the context to evaluate this latest report. One researcher estimates that Americans spend about $40 billion per year on both over-the-counter treatments and visits to the doctor for the common cold. No wonder that any new publication should gain wide attention, but the new study (examining old studies) concluded “The effects of zinc lozenges should be further studied to determine the optimal lozenge compositions…” This story shortchanges the consumer by presenting information without much context. It exaggerates the evidence and implies that zinc is an answer.

mixture

1838

7372

Soccer clubs contemplating options for season ticket holders.

Many soccer clubs in Europe are still contemplating how to reimburse their season ticket holders amid the coronavirus pandemic.

true

1839

18225

Stephen Nodine Says he can be on the ballot for Congress while serving time in jail.

"""Nodine claimed that he """"can run"""" for office. As a legal matter, he is correct. The Constitution enshrines the idea that the people get to decide who shall represent them, and the only limits are age, citizenship and residency. In terms of federal law, Nodine can indeed run. His desire to run as a Republican puts him in murkier waters. Political parties enjoy a certain independence. The opinions of the legal experts we reached ranged from thumbs up to thumbs down on Nodine’s chances in court. But even on the more optimistic end, the court battles would be decided long after the election Nodine cares about is over. In the broadest sense, Nodine has the legal right to run for office from jail, but significant barriers lie between that right and his name appearing on the ballot."""

true

1840

10713

Here’s how a five-day diet that mimics fasting may ‘reboot’ the body and reduce cancer risk

The story is about a USC study that links partial fasting for five days each month to a number of health benefits. But it fails to quantify those benefits in any way and fails to note that two of the researchers have potential conflicts of interest when promoting this line of research. The story receives 0 out of 5 stars — reflecting failure to earn a Satisfactory rating on any of the 7 applicable criteria. The benefits of fasting are well known, but so too are the risks. This study offers what may be a happy medium — a diet that is linked to health benefits, yet one that appears safe and, perhaps, may be easier to follow.

false

1841

7478

Schumer calls on VA to explain use of unproven drug on vets.

The Senate’s top Democrat on Sunday called on the Department of Veterans Affairs to explain why it allowed the use of an unproven drug on veterans for the coronavirus, saying patients may have been put at unnecessary risk.

true

1842

11464

Gene Therapy Shows Potential Against Heart Failure

Are we really going to report commonly now when early research moves from one phase into another? What researchers announced was that a year after a very small number of heart failure patients were given a type of gene therapy intended to improve how their heart muscles manage calcium cycling there appear to be enough indications of relative benefits and safety to move ahead to a phase 3 trial that would be capable of providing more reliable evidence of clinical effects. What’s more, the key conclusions of this trial were announced at another heart failure meeting last summer. This presentation just updated the statistics with a few more months of data. Instead of asking probing questions of researchers, the story relies on quotes from a news release. Instead of getting comments from independent sources that illuminate the specific strengths and weaknesses of this trial, the story just passes along general statements about heart failure and the preliminary nature of research. At least the story discloses the use of prepared statements and it notes that the company developing this gene therapy funded the trial. Earlier reports about this trial highlighted questions about the statistical methods used by the researchers in this trial… and words of caution about reading too much into the findings. This story could have done a better job explaining to readers that this trial was capable only of determining whether or not this gene therapy is ready for the next phase of testing – and that it cannot settle questions about whether the therapy is safe and effective.

false

1843

6298

Long-hidden toxic waste endangers Serbia’s health, EU status.

Dozens of rusty barrels and plastic tubs filled with a dark, oily liquid cluttered a muddy yard where chickens roamed. More brimming containers packed a wooden barn.

true

1844

10549

Colonoscopy may miss more than 7 percent of cancers

"""The story puts the numbers right in the headline and follows up with more numbers in the lead. The story hits most of our marks and does an especially good job making use of independent voices. We would have liked to see more use of absolute numbers to help readers understand whether, on balance, colonoscopy is still a good way to detect cancer. As the story notes, colon cancer is the second leading killer among all cancers in the US. Detecting it early can save thousands of lives. If there are flaws in the way these screenings are being applied, they need to be documented and remedied. This story does a great job of showing both the flaws and some of the potential solutions. Consumers also should be aware that having a normal colonoscopy does not """"guarantee"""" them they are free of colon cancer for the 10 year interval until the next recommended screening."""

true

1845

18042

"""Of the roughly 15 percent of Americans who don’t have health insurance, """"half of them made more than $50,000 a year."""

"""Paul said that of the roughly 15 percent of Americans who don’t have health insurance, """"half of them made more than $50,000 a year."""" In reality, if you measure what individuals make, Census data shows that 28 percent of uninsured Americans earn $50,000. By another measure, using household income, almost 38 percent of uninsured Americans earn at least $50,000. Both of these figures are pretty far from the 50 percent Paul cited in the interview."""

false

1846

1694

France bans super-skinny models in anorexia clampdown.

France will ban excessively thin fashion models and expose modeling agents and the fashion houses that hire them to possible fines and even jail, under a new law passed on Friday.

true

1847

29151

New York City is set to ban hot dogs and processed meats in an effort to combat climate change.

"""What's true: New York City announced a """"Green New Deal"""" in April 2019 that would reduce the amount of processed meat purchased by government-run facilities such as hospitals, schools, and correctional facilities. What's false: New York City did not ban hot dogs outright. Restaurants, hot-dog stands, grocery stores, and other privately owned businesses will still be able to sell hot dogs."""

false

1848

5741

California Assembly committee backs vaccine exemption law.

A California Assembly committee backed new rules for vaccination exemptions on Thursday following a raucous, hours-long hearing in the midst of a national measles outbreak and renewed scrutiny of immunization policies.

true

1849

40889

There were 32 deaths from suicide in Ireland in August.

It’s too soon to know this figure as only a coroner can officially rule a death as a suicide, but this figure is realistic looking at past data.

false

1850

28448

So far in 2018, the number of U.S. students killed in school shootings is greater than the number of U.S. military personnel who have been killed on active duty.

What's true: The number of U.S. students killed in school shootings so far this year is greater than the number of U.S. military personnel who have been killed in combat operations. What's false: The number of active duty U.S. military personnel killed from all causes so far this year (including training accidents) is greater than the number of people (including adults) killed in school shootings.

mixture

1851

8292

U.S. to start antibody testing of sailors on coronavirus-hit aircraft carrier.

The U.S. Navy said on Friday it will conduct antibody testing of sailors aboard the coronavirus-hit aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt to determine whether they were exposed to the virus as it spread through the ship.

true

1852

7480

Plan to use malaria drug in Mumbai slums temporarily shelved.

A plan to give the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine to thousands of people in Mumbai’s crowded slums to prevent coronavirus infections has temporarily been shelved, officials said Wednesday.

true

1853

7035

Canadian mining firm threatens to suspend Greece investment.

Canadian mining company Eldorado Gold on Monday threatened to suspend a major investment in Greece in 10 days, accusing the government of delaying permits and licenses.

true

1854

6833

States, military clash on cleanup of toxic chemicals.

The U.S. Department of Defense has quietly begun battling environmental regulators in several states, after the agencies attempted to force the military to clean toxic firefighting chemicals from polluted streams, marshes and aquifers. The efforts mark the opening acts of what could turn into a nationwide war on legal liabilities, which the Pentagon estimates could reach into billions of dollars as it investigates the presence of the chemicals at hundreds of bases across all 50 states.

true

1855

10832

Now what do I do? Suddenly women in their 40s must ponder whose mammography advice to follow

News of the new recommendations from the US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) stating that average risk women need not start regular mammography screening until age 50 has exploded all over the media. The timing of the issuing of the new guidelines at the time of great debate in health care reform has many women wondering if this is an attempt by the government to contain costs or somehow deny preventative services. In fact, the new statement by the USPSTF is not actually new. There are no new data or studies that have been published recently that provided the impetus for the new recommendations. Rather, this is a culmination of years of research and taking a bold new look at our familiar mantra that early detection is better. We all like to believe we have control, but truth is that we have been oversold on the benefits of mammography. The new recommendations will not deny mammograms to women who want them, women in their 40’s will still be able to get screened and insurance companies have emphasized that they will still be covered. Women who are at high risk, such as those with a family history or African-American women, who tend to get more aggressive forms of breast cancer, will still get offered regular screening. But for those women at average risk, the new guidelines state that it is reasonable to wait to start screening until age 50. This story does a good job of describing the potential harms of mammography screening, including needless procedures and stress and anxiety from false positive results. The story quotes multiple sources who provide valuable contrasting perspectives. The story could have been improved by describing the costs or insurance coverage for mammograms and if or how this recommendation might affect insurance coverage. Nor does the story discuss the evidence for the new recommendations. Readers would want to know if this is based on new results or just a new look at the same studies. Finally, the story does not adequately quantify the benefits or harms of mammography. The representative of the American Cancer Society provides the number needed to screen, which is very helpful, but this should have come from a source that is more objective. A reader might also want to know the false-positive rate for mammography. The story seems to suggest that the recommendation was to not have screening without presenting the second part of the recommendation – that “The decision to start regular, biennial screening mammography before the age of 50 years should be an individual one and take patient context into account, including the patient’s values regarding specific benefits and harms.” The framing that this is about withholding needed care seems misguided. In the end, the new recommendations emphasize that deciding when to start screening is a DECISION that women can make on their own, in consultation with their doctors. One good thing that may come out of the confusion is that women will more openly discuss the pros and cons of screening with their doctors.

true

1856

23242

"""Harry Reid """"voted to use taxpayer dollars to pay for Viagra for convicted child molesters and sex offenders."""

Sharron Angle attacks Harry Reid over giving sex offenders taxpayer-subsidized Viagra

false

1857

1689

A dog's life: study reveals people's hormonal link with tail-waggers.

Dogs are called “man’s best friend” - women’s, too - and scientists say the bond between people and their pooches may be deeper than you might think.

true

1858

9153

First large-scale population analysis reinforces ketamine's reputation as antidepressant

In this study of the effect of the anesthetic drug ketamine on depression, researchers at University of California – San Diego data-mined the FDA Adverse Effect Reporting System database for information on ketamine use for pain relief. Their analysis found an association between ketamine and reduced incidence of depression. However, the absence of depression the researchers found in 41,000 people (out of 8 million entries in the database) taking ketamine for pain relief in no way proves ketamine is responsible for the lack of depression. The release and the study it’s based on stand on a very shaky foundation. The release’s only nod to caution about the findings is an acknowledgement that the effect of ketamine on depression could be due to an “unidentified” factor. But it does not mention the problems with this retrospective, data-mining study, the main one being that the absence of a symptom (depression) does not equate to the drug alleviating the symptom. No mention is made of the fact that the data were not collected for the purpose for which the researchers used them or the fact that there are no medical histories attached to the subjects included in the study. According to the World Health Organization, more than 300 million people experience depression worldwide. The suffering due to depression can be severe, and affect families, co-workers and friends of the person with the diagnosis. Most anti-depression medications take weeks if not months to reach full effect, and many patients quit taking the drugs before they reach full effectiveness. Patients with acute depression or suicidal intentions need drugs that will work more rapidly. Because anti-depression medications do not work for everyone, an effective intervention that might work quickly would be beneficial. There’s a lot of better-designed research underway on ketamine and its safety and usefulness in treating depression. Readers would be best served waiting for stronger evidence to emerge before drawing conclusions.

false

1859

2909

Intercept liver drug meets main goal in study, shares quadruple.

Intercept Pharmaceuticals Inc’s drug to treat liver disease caused by fat buildup was found effective in a trial, paving the way for it to become the first approved treatment for the chronic condition.

true

1860

8470

With cheers, New York nurses greet reinforcements from across the U.S.

With loud cheers and applause, medical staff at New York’s Northwell Health network greeted 46 nurses on Tuesday who had arrived from all over the United States to reinforce hospitals as they battle the coronavirus pandemic.

true

1861

10990

More Options Before Bypass Surgery, Study Finds

The piece gave readers some powerful information to help them sort through the range of factors that should be considered for any medical intervention. The only weakness our reviewers found with the story is the lack of comment about cost. Too often stories present medical options as false choices of best versus worst. They don’t take into consideration the very real differences between patients’ medical histories, diagnoses and expectations. This story should be applauded for giving readers a clear understanding of the complexities of shared decision-making between providers and patients. As noted by one of the experts quoted in the story, “You don’t have a good therapy and a bad therapy, you have a choice.” This is a message that the story gets across very well and is an important one for readers.

true

1862

38836

Johnson & Johnson has removed formaldehyde from baby products like No More Tears shampoo.

Johnson & Johnson Removes Formaldehyde from Baby Products.

true

1863

8594

Swiss urge public to stick to anti-virus measures over Easter.

Switzerland’s president called on the public to stick with emergency measures designed to halt the spread of the new coronavirus, saying on Tuesday the country remains “very far from normal” ahead of the long Easter weekend.

true

1864

3978

Wasting disease detected in 4 deer on Crow Wing County farm.

Chronic wasting disease has been detected in four deer at a quarantined farm in Crow Wing County.

true

1865

9750

'Play This Video Game And Call Me In The Morning'

This story about video games being tested as therapies for cognitive disorders is better than its star score indicates. The focus of the story is primarily on the standards that should be used to evaluate and regulate such video games, rather than the evidence, or lack thereof, that this sort of game could have therapeutic value. Nevertheless, the story passes along several claims about these games that lead the reader to believe that there will be some discussion of the evidence that backs them. But apart from a skeptical comment toward the end and a link to previous story addressing the issue, the hoped-for analysis doesn’t materialize. Which is not to suggest that the story doesn’t deliver a significant amount of valuable information. Readers are treated to the perspective of a number of different players in the technology, health care, and drug industries — and what they have to say about the regulation of such possible therapies is fascinating. Among the interesting questions raised: Can the years-long FDA approval process keep up with a technology that’s changing every six months? And what problems occur when you try to apply that methodical, evidence-based process to such a fast-moving area of technology? The rules of the game often determine the outcome. For example, sales of nutritional supplements are far higher than they would be if purveyors were subject to regulations similar to those the FDA applies to pharmaceuticals. This story helps educate readers about the battlefield terrain and the objectives of those who promote or resist the use of video games as therapy for cognitive disorders.

false

1866

35577

The address used for the home of the SpongeBob SquarePants character corresponds to a location on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's privately owned island.

Hundreds of thousands of false listings sprout on Google Maps each month, according to experts. Google says it catches many others before they appear.

false

1867

11628

Oral multiple sclerosis drug shows promise

"""LA Times blog headline: """"Oral multiple sclerosis drug shows promise."""" AP story headline: """"MS pills show promise and risk."""" Two huge differences should jump out at you. AP mentioned pills – plural – because two drugs were reported on in this week’s NEJM. And AP mentioned risks right along with harms. The blog entry ran only 305 words, compared with more than 700 for the AP story. We needed the extra words because they provided needed context and balance. Studies on two MS drugs were published in NEJM this week. Why did the LA Times blog feature only one?"""

false

1868

7654

In crackdown, U.S. FDA seeks details on new electronic cigarettes.

Faced with a proliferation of new electronic cigarettes and a sharp rise in teen vaping, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Friday sent letters to 21 electronic cigarette manufacturers seeking information to assess whether the products are being marketed illegally.

true

1869

27944

A girl on an amusement park ride was scalped when her hair got caught in the attraction's machinery.

Girl on an amusement park ride is scalped when her hair gets caught in the attraction's machinery?

true

1870

10969

Exelixis drug slows prostate cancer spread in trial

The story provides the reader with a confused and often contradictory profile of interim findings of a study reported in abstract at a big scientific conference. The American Society of Clinical Oncology conference fosters a lot of rush-to-publication among journalists. This story was an example of what an empty exercise that can sometimes be.

false

1871

10555

Pain Relief for Some, With an Odd Tradeoff

"""This story delivers some important information about how spinal stimulation devices have been investigated for use in chronic pain. But it does not make clear that the study upon which the story is based concerned patients for whom an initial surgery had failed. The story suggests that the procedure might be an alternative to initial surgery. The story also mentions complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) as an indication for use of the device. But the study did not address this condition. Radicular pain – so-called """"neuropathic pain"""" in the source study is not CRPS. Some of this framing conveys a message that is too bold while the jury is not yet in. The story does accurately characterize the evidence about the device’s partial effectiveness and potential disadvantages. It includes interviews with four sources, and mentions conflicts of interest. Though the story mentions problems some people have with spinal stimulators, it overlooks some important ones, including infection and device migration. (See “Harms of Treatment’ above.) Importantly, it also neglects to point out the consensus view among pain experts that this is a treatment of last resort—to be used only after everything else has failed, including surgery."""

mixture

1872

7494

Congo, weary from Ebola, must also battle the coronavirus.

Congo has been battling an Ebola outbreak that has killed thousands of people for more than 18 months, and now it must also face a new scourge: the coronavirus pandemic.

true

1873

13499

"""Tim Kaine Says Hillary Clinton and millennials have the same positions on climate change, abortion rights, immigration reform, gay rights and college affordability. """"Donald Trump doesn't."""

"""Kaine said Hillary Clinton and millennials believe in climate change, abortion rights, immigration reform, gay rights and college affordability but """"Donald Trump doesn't."""" Reputable polls back Kaine’s claim, though the VP nominee is overstating the extent of Trump’s opposition to gay rights and college affordability. Millennials agree decisively with Clinton’s position on immigration, gay rights and college affordability, and by narrow margins on climate change and abortion rights."""

true

1874

36320

Proof exists that Rep. Ilhan Omar married her brother.

There Is No Credible Evidence Rep. Ilhan Omar Married Her Brother

false

1875

9811

Study clouds evidence on soy and menopause

Overall, this story addressed our criteria. The big picture is that this is a small study, funded by pharma that showed a benefit for soy. Put in the context of the many randomized clinical trials that have looked at this issue over the past decade, there are questions about this finding, and the story puts those doubts in readers’ minds. Many women may not feel comfortable taking hormone replacement therapy to relieve symptoms of menopause, but are interested in something to reduce uncomfortable symptoms. However, studies of supplements or over-the-counter remedies need to be conducted in the same populations for which the products are marketed. It’s interesting that this study in China showed a benefit. Historically, anthropologic studies of Asian women have reported that they don’t tend to report hot flashes. Whether this is due to high estrogen in the diet (e.g., soy) or to cultural/communication factors is not known. Multiple randomized clinical trials in the US and Europe have showed no benefit from soy despite many attempts to find one.

true

1876

14225

"""Bernie Sanders Says an array of statistics show that conditions in some parts of Baltimore rival that of """"the West Bank in Palestine,"""" """"North Korea,"""" and """"distressed cities in Nigeria, India, China and South Africa."""

"""Sanders presented a series of comparisons showing that conditions in some parts of Baltimore rivaled that of """"the West Bank in Palestine,"""" """"North Korea,"""" and """"distressed cities in Nigeria, India, China and South Africa. Some of Sanders’ figures need to be updated, but the gist of his specific comparisons are accurate: 12 Baltimore neighborhoods have a lower life expectancy than North Korea; 11 have a higher infant mortality rate than the West Bank; and research shows health conditions are worse for poor teens than in Baltimore than in Ibadan, New Delhi and Shanghai."""

true

1877

2906

Sangamo to develop blood disorder drugs with Biogen.

Sangamo Biosciences Inc said it would collaborate with Biogen Idec Inc to develop treatments for a group of inherited blood disorders in a deal for up to $320 million.

true

1878

5026

Argentine women see legal abortion closer than ever.

Pushed by a wave of demonstrations by women’s groups, the homeland of Pope Francis seems closer than ever to legalizing abortion.

true

1879

2827

Covidien to stop making hypertension devices.

Covidien Plc said it would stop making devices for treating high blood pressure due to weak industry-wide demand.

true

1880

6602

UK jury convicts doctor of performing unnecessary surgeries.

A prominent breast surgeon whose victims accused him of playing God with their lives faces a life sentence after a jury convicted him Friday of carrying out unnecessary operations that maimed some of his victims for life.

true

1881

8112

Malaysia steps up coronavirus tests as it braces for 'worst scenario'.

Malaysia is ramping up coronavirus tests in preparation for the “worst scenario”, as it grapples with Southeast Asia’s highest number of infections, a health ministry official told Reuters.

true

1882

8613

Chinese masks, or 'blue gold', arrive for Swiss hospitals.

A Boeing 747 landed in Geneva on Monday with 92 tonnes of protective medical equipment including masks made in China for distribution to 13 Swiss hospitals and pharmaceutical associations as they battle the COVID-19 pandemic.

true

1883

29980

Meth in Louisiana is contaminated with the Zika virus.

Police Chief Walker stated that as of the evening of 30 December 2018, no one had brought in meth to the department for testing.

false

1884

29244

The World Health Organization has declared that medical marijuana has no health risks.

What's true: The World Health Organization’s Expert Committee on Drug Dependence announced they considered the non-psychoactive component of cannabis — cannabidiol or CBD — safe enough to justify not scheduling the chemical legally. What's false: The announcement says nothing about cannabis as a whole or about any other potential oils or products derived from cannabis that would contain the psychoactive ingredient THC, and the announcement carries no legal ramifications for United States drug policy.

false

1885

3585

2 puppies euthanized after contact with rabid bats.

Officials say two German shepherd puppies were euthanized after they came into contact with bats that tested positive for rabies in southwestern Washington.

true

1886

5211

Harris, Gillibrand offer plans to bolster maternal care.

Two Democratic women running for president unveiled plans Wednesday to improve maternal health care, with Sen. Kamala Harris reintroducing a bill aimed at addressing racial disparities in childbirth care and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand promising to make adoptions and high-tech fertility treatments more accessible to those who want children.

true

1887

26811

“If you have the Flu… get these two items… Sambucol (and) Oscillococcinum… in 48 hours you will feel better. In 72 hours you will be almost symptom-free.”

These homeopathic supplements have been shown in some small studies to help relieve symptoms of flu and respiratory infection. But there are not enough trials to conclusively call them medications. Doctors agree that Sambucol has the most flu-fighting potential, while there is little evidence that Oscillococcinum can considerably shorten the length of the flu.

false

1888

32262

Pouring Coca-Cola onto a piece of raw pork will cause worms to come crawling out of the meat.

Pouring Coca-Cola onto a piece of raw pork will not cause worms to come crawling out of the meat.

false

1889

15200

Of the 25 wealthiest nations, we're the only one that doesn't provide basic health coverage.

"""Gecker said that """"of the 25 wealthiest nations, we’re the only one that doesn’t provide basic health coverage."""" Gecker was referring to rich nations that provide coverage to all of their citizens. We can’t say definitively that the U.S. is the only one that doesn’t provide universal coverage, but evidence strongly points that way."""

true

1890

37651

Author Malcolm Gladwell said in a January 2020 speech that a statue of former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno should be restored.

Did Malcolm Gladwell Say Penn State Should Restore a Statue of Joe Paterno?

true

1891

7483

South Dakota continues malaria drug trial despite FDA alert.

South Dakota health officials said Friday that they will continue to make a malaria drug widely available to treat COVID-19, even as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned against its use outside of hospital and research settings.

true

1892

8437

Taiwan says donating 2 million face masks to virus-hit Japan.

Taiwan will donate two million face masks to its former colonial master Japan, which has been hard hit by the outbreak of the new coronavirus, as part of the island’s efforts to show it can help the world combat the pandemic.

true

1893

9718

Merck's Keytruda extends survival in lung cancer study

The story reports on new findings from a clinical trial of the drug Keytruda. Specifically, the story says that patients with late-stage lung cancer whose tumors produce a protein called PD-L1 had increased overall survival when taking Keytruda rather than docetaxel, which is is a widely-used drug for treating lung cancer. The story offers little information on how significant the health benefits associated with Keytruda are, what it costs or what its potential harms are. The story claims that more data on the trial findings will be available soon — and, given the paucity of information here, one wonders at the decision not to wait for that additional data. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States, claiming more than 157,000 lives in 2012 alone. Similarly, cancer treatment is big business. The story notes that cancer immunotherapies, such as Keytruda, are expected to bring in annual sales of $20 billion by 2020. But that may be a conservative estimate. One recent estimate from a market research firm set the annual revenue from cancer immunotherapies at more than $80 billion by 2020. Between the health impact and the economic impact, any advances in treatment that can improve health outcomes for patients battling lung cancer is clearly a big story. But rushing to tell the story before all — or even most — of the facts are in can be a dicey business. Doctors and patients are eagerly awaiting news on new therapies. It’s important to give all parties concerned a clear picture, rather than a rushed one.

false

1894

31139

Actor Kirk Cameron has contracted an extremely rare form of leprosy.

If Cameron, who is best known for playing Mike Seaver on the show “Growing Pains”, was truly diagnosed with a rare form of leprosy, legitimate news outlets would certainly report on it. However, the only mention of this alleged diagnosis comes from a well-known purveyor of fake news.

false

1895

3734

South Korea reports 1st possible case of viral pneumonia.

South Korea has put a 36-year-old Chinese woman under isolated treatment amid concerns that she brought back a form of viral pneumonia that has sickened dozens in mainland China and Hong Kong in recent weeks.

true

1896

10871

Study: Advanced Cancer Patients Receiving Early Palliative Care Lived Longer

This post from the Wall Street Journal Health Blog got it right on the big picture but missed some smaller points that might have been addressed in a longer piece. Kudos to the WSJ for doing the best job of reporting on the limitations of this study. A bit more detail on costs and availability would have rounded out the picture for readers. Why is it important to discuss the limitations of a study–even a very good study? Because experience has shown us time and again that any single study can be flawed in ways that may not be fully appreciated at the time of publication. It is the weight of the accumulated evidence — not the findings of any one study — which is important to consider when making decisions about health care.

true

1897

33215

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry hide a close familial connection to an Iranian official with whom he negotiated a nuclear deal.

Finally, the unsourced statement that “Secretary Kerry and Zarif first met over a decade ago at a dinner party hosted by George Soros at his Manhattan penthouse. What a surprise.” is (even if true) little more than out-of-context innuendo intended to suggest some kind of close pre-negotiation friendship between the two figures without providing any actual evidence of it. Both men have an extensive history of political and diplomatic service to their countries over the last thirty years: Mohammad Javad Zarif lived in and was educated (up to the PhD level) in the United States, served as a member of the Iranian delegation to the United Nations (a position in which he met with a number of Washington politicians), has been a headline speaker at foreign policy conferences in the U.S. (attended by prominent Washington politicians), and has been Iran’s minister of foreign affairs since 2013, while John Kerry served several terms in the U.S. Senate, was the Democratic presidential nominee in 2004, chaired the Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee, and has been U.S. Secretary of State since 2013. It’s hardly a “surprise” to anyone the least bit familiar with the political world that two men who have long held high positions in their countries’ national governments and been closely involved with foreign affairs might have crossed paths at some point prior to their first negotiation as their countries’ official representatives.

false

1898

33355

An unusually high percentage of the child actors who starred in the Our Gang film series have met tragic, premature ends.

Although these percentages may be higher than one would expect to find among the general population, they’re not at all out of line with reasonable expectations given the extremely small sample size (29) used here. One man’s “curse” is another man’s normal cross-section of society.

false

1899

28279

The FBI discovered a terrorist compound in Alabama, as reported in May 2019.

"""What's true: The FBI discovered a property near Tuskegee, AL, that is closely linked to a group of people, mostly U.S. citizens, charged with serious terrorism offenses stemming from the discovery of another compound in New Mexico. According to the FBI, the Alabama property contained a """"military-style obstacle course."""" What's undetermined: Notwithstanding the allegations by federal prosecutors of an overarching, religiously inspired terrorist plot among the group, each of the defendants has pleaded not guilty to all the charges against them, and therefore the nature and purpose of their compounds cannot yet be stated definitively."""

mixture

1900

4094

Appeals court hears Johns Hopkins black lung lawsuit.

A federal appeals court heard arguments Wednesday in a lawsuit filed by the families of coal miners who were denied benefits for black lung disease after a Johns Hopkins doctor insisted their X-rays did not show the disease.

true

1901

20737

For the first time in 13 years, our dependence on foreign oil is below 50 percent.

Barack Obama campaign says U.S. dependence on foreign oil now below 50 percent

mixture

1902

11343

Analysis weighs benefits, risks of Actos

A recent analysis suggests a newer diabetes drug, Actos, may lower risk of death, heart attack, or stroke compared to taking a sugar pill or other types of diabetes drugs. But despite the findings, the story makes it clear that many experts consider these newer types of drugs as second line therapy, due to their higher risk of heart failure and higher costs compared to older drugs that are also effective. The story even includes a quote telling readers that no one is suggesting taking these newer drugs to reduce chance of death, heart attack, or stroke; rather, the analysis was undertaken in an attempt to further understand risk-benefit trade-offs of Actos, particularly in light of recent safety concerns about another drug in the same family (rosiglitazone). The story met most criteria, including describing the type of evidence, costs, availability and novely of the drug, quantifying benefits, and obtaining independent input, or at least describing potential conflicts of interest of sources of information. The story could have been improved with a further discussion of potential harms of treatment (such as quantifying risk of heart failure) and by fully discussing alternate treatment options, including diet, exercise, and weight loss to manage risk factors for diabetes complications.

true