News from NYU Langone Health
Is Social Smoking Bad for You?
The New York Times
Even occasional "social smoking" carries significant health risks, primarily the danger of addiction. Anil Vachani, MD, a pulmonologist and director of the Lung Cancer Screening Program at NYU Langone Health, explains that smoking irritates the lungs immediately and increases susceptibility to respiratory infections. Over time, it permanently damages the lungs, raising the risk for conditions like COPD and emphysema. Experts warn that while a single cigarette is unlikely to cause a heart attack, each one increases the odds of forming a habit, with one doctor describing it as "playing with fire."
12/30/2025
NeurologyLive® Year in Review 2025: Spotlighting SAP Collaborations
NeurologyLive
In a 2025 year-in-review, NeurologyLive featured an interview with Orrin Devinsky, MD, director of NYU Langone’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, on the evolution of epilepsy care. He highlighted the promise of antisense oligonucleotides and gene replacement for rare epilepsies and stressed the need to address premature mortality and improve pregnancy management. The article also noted that Alexa Dessy, MD, a clinical assistant professor at Jefferson Health, studied at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Other experts from institutions like Mount Sinai and Cleveland Clinic were also featured.
12/30/2025
ABC News
A roundup of major medical breakthroughs in 2025 highlights research from NYU Langone Health that discovered the immune reactions causing pig kidney rejection in transplant patients. A team led by Robert A. Montgomery, MD, DPhil, chair of the Department of Surgery and director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, found that a coordinated response from antibodies and T cells occurs two to four weeks post-transplant. The researchers also learned to detect the attack before rejection happens and successfully reversed it using an FDA-approved drug combination, a significant step toward making xenotransplants a viable alternative.
12/30/2025
‘Super flu’ cases rising across US: What to know
The Hill
A severe influenza A variant, H3N2 subclade K, nicknamed 'super flu,' is causing a difficult flu season across the United States. The virus is causing symptoms like high fever, severe body aches, and extreme fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 'very high' levels of the virus in New York. For at-home care, Mark J. Mulligan, MD, the former Thomas S. Murphy, Sr. Professor of Medicine in NYU Langone's Department of Medicine, director of the Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, and director of The Vaccine Center at NYU Langone Health, recommends drinking plenty of fluids, getting sufficient rest, and taking Tylenol or Advil to manage fever, headaches, and muscle aches.
Also reporting was: WROC-TV (Rochester, NY), DC News Now
12/29/2025
Understanding the Emotional Challenges of Skin Cancer Treatment
CURE Magazine
In an interview, Ariel Ostad, MD, clinical associate professor in the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, discussed the emotional and practical challenges patients face during and after skin cancer treatment. He noted that common psychosocial concerns include fear of uncertainty, loss of control, and anxiety about body image due to scars or hair loss. Dr. Ostad advised that clinicians can help by normalizing these emotional reactions, providing clear expectations about timelines, and breaking down complex information. He also emphasized the importance of referring patients to social workers and supportive oncology services.
12/29/2025
HealthCentral’s 10 Centers of Excellence in Cardiovascular Care
HealthCentral
NYU Langone's Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease has been named one of HealthCentral’s 10 Centers of Excellence in Cardiovascular Care. The center was recognized for its multidisciplinary and prevention-focused approach, coordinating lipidology, cardiology, endocrinology, obesity medicine, and behavioral health support. The report highlights specialized initiatives such as the Cardio-Rheumatology Program and the Postpartum Cardiovascular Health Program. It also notes that U.S. News & World Report ranks NYU Langone Health #1 in Cardiology, Heart, and Vascular Surgery. Other institutions recognized on the list include Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and Mayo Clinic.
12/29/2025
Your mouth on weed is nothing to smile about
CNN
A growing number of studies document the oral health dangers of marijuana use, including increased risks for cavities, tooth loss, and mouth cancers. Using marijuana before dental procedures is also risky, as it can affect the body's response to anesthesia and increase heart rate. Austin Le, DDS, PhD, assistant research scientist at NYU Langone Health, commented on concerns about drug interactions causing emergencies and noted that cannabis users often snack on sugary foods and may be less likely to maintain regular oral hygiene.
12/29/2025
