Health stories in Raleigh–Durham

Dr. Vipul Patel successfully performed telesurgery on a prostate cancer patient from 35 miles away using a robotic system. This pioneering surgery is part of a clinical study exploring the potential of telesurgery to improve access to specialized medical care.

A groundbreaking mRNA cancer vaccine, intismeran, has shown a 42% reduction in melanoma recurrence rates post-surgery. Developed by Moderna and Merck, this personalized vaccine marks a significant advancement in cancer treatment.

Pope Leo XIV has canceled his upcoming trip to Assisi on doctors' advice as he recovers from lung cancer surgery. The Vatican confirmed that the pope will send a message to attendees of the peace event instead.

A mother shares her anguish after her toddler, Vincent Fiordilino, was mistakenly declared dead and later found breathing in a hospital morgue. The incident raises serious questions about medical protocols and the care provided to vulnerable patients.

A norovirus outbreak at Bentwood Elementary School in Olathe, Kansas, has impacted nearly 100 individuals, including students and staff. Health officials reported no hospitalizations and confirmed cases through laboratory testing.

Evi Bonilla, Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program Coordinator, emphasized the significance of breast cancer screenings for women over 40 during a recent interview. She also addressed efforts to reduce barriers to screening in Chatham County.

Pope Leo XIV's doctors announced that no further treatment is needed after successful lung cancer surgery. The tumor was localized, and the pontiff has returned to public duties shortly after his recovery.

Actress Christina Applegate has disclosed that she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis, highlighting the challenges in diagnosing the condition. Experts explain that MS symptoms can mimic other illnesses, complicating accurate diagnosis.

Actress Christina Applegate disclosed on her podcast that she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis, leaving her confused and seeking answers. Despite the misdiagnosis, she continues to experience symptoms similar to MS.

Brett Rothstein, a Wendell resident, called 911 seeking an ambulance but was instead provided a Lyft ride-share by Wake County's Nurse Navigation program. While he is recovering, Rothstein expressed that the response added to his distress.

The University of North Carolina has announced a $25 million federal consortium aimed at early detection and prevention of Alzheimer's and other diseases. This initiative, named IMPEDE, brings together researchers from seven universities to collaborate on innovative solutions.

Billy Joel has revealed that he is currently unable to drive or perform due to a rare brain condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus. Despite downplaying the seriousness of his condition, he acknowledges its impact on his balance, memory, and vision.

The Medicare open enrollment period starts Thursday, allowing seniors to choose plans before significant changes take effect in 2027. Key adjustments include higher out-of-pocket caps and the end of temporary premium subsidies.

Pope Leo XIV is recovering at Rome's Gemelli Hospital after undergoing surgery to remove a lobe of his lung due to cancer. The Vatican reports that he had a good night's sleep and is expected to continue his recovery for about a week.

Several organizations have called on North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson to conduct a thorough review of the proposed merger between WakeMed and Atrium Health. They are particularly concerned about potential price increases and the need for public input.

Newly released 911 audio details the urgent response when actress Hayden Panettiere was found unresponsive in August. The call highlights the efforts to administer CPR before first responders arrived.

North Carolina's State Health Plan will classify most Atrium Health facilities as out-of-network starting January 1, 2027, following a court ruling. This decision comes after a judge declined to block Atrium's Affordability Protection Program.

Patients and advocacy groups are demanding more transparency regarding the proposed merger between Atrium Health and WakeMed. Concerns include potential healthcare cost increases and the funding of Atrium's promised $2 billion investment.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has reported two fatalities due to West Nile virus in central NC. Prolonged warm weather may be contributing to the increased risk of the virus.

Pope Leo XIV had surgery to remove a nodule diagnosed as pulmonary adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. The Vatican reports he is recovering well after the procedure.

A judge has denied the North Carolina State Health Plan's request to block a new program from Atrium Health designed for its members. This decision allows the program to proceed, impacting healthcare options for many in the state.

The Social Security Administration announced a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment starting in 2027, equating to an average increase of $75 per month for recipients. Many beneficiaries express that this increase falls short of addressing rising inflation and healthcare costs.

A recent study suggests that GLP-1 medications may improve fertility outcomes for women suffering from polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). One woman's experience highlights the potential benefits of these drugs in managing symptoms and achieving pregnancy without traditional fertility treatments.

Pope Leo XIV had a successful surgery to remove a lobe of his lung following a lung cancer diagnosis. He is currently recovering in a Rome hospital.