Measles cases increase globally; new drug approvals; mindfulness + exercise = good mental health – Morning Medical Update

Measles on the rise?

The measles vaccine is safe, effective, and has been around for decades. But global cases and deaths rose from 2021 to 2022, due to factors including missed vaccinations and antivaccine sentiment.

Pharmaceutical approvals

How many new drugs were approved in 2023? A lot, for all kinds of conditions and illnesses. Here's a roundup of new approvals by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

A sound mind in a sound body

A new meta-analysis about psychological health found “broad effectiveness” of medical interventions combining physical activity with mindfulness training for mental health and well-being. While more study is needed, such combined interventions “show promise,” and researchers worked with a foundation to develop a free meditation app, according to the study and accompanying press release.