How the U.S. is sabotaging its best tools to prevent deaths in the opioid epidemic

A yearlong STAT investigation shows that virtually every sector of American society is obstructing the use of medications that could prevent tens of thousands of overdose deaths. Read Part 1 of The War on Recovery series.

By Lev Facher

"This is practically the only medication in the entire country that is treated this way. The medication for abortion — that is easier accessed than methadone. That's how nuts this is."

Rep. Don Norcross
House Representative for New Jersey's 1st congressional district

Molly Ferguson for STAT

Girls are starting puberty earlier than ever. For some, that comes with major mental health risks

When girls experiencing precocious puberty don't receive sex education and support from their school, health care providers, or family, they're often left feeling alone and trapped in bodies they hardly recognize. Read more.

By Alexa Lee

Amylyx Pharmaceuticals via AP

Amylyx ALS drug failure leaves patients, advocates, and researchers reeling — and wondering what's next

The latest disappointment in ALS research brought crushing news for patients and physicians, forcing the community to consider just what to do with an approved medicine that doesn't appear to work. Here are the outstanding questions brought on by Relyvrio's failure. Read more.

By Adam Feuerstein and Damian Garde

More great reads from STAT this week

Explaining Change Healthcare and the gravity of its cyberattack
Harvard longevity scientist sparks furor with claim about reversing aging in dogs
Medicare is a tricky market for telehealth companies. Why is Talkspace betting on it?
Opinion: The CDC's new, relaxed Covid isolation guidance makes perfect sense
A disabled artist's journey from 'Oh, sorry' to social justice activism