Recognising value

ABSTRACT

Conducted in the US Veterans Affairs system, this large study shows benefits from the antiviral drug nirmatrelvir when used early in patients with SARS-CoV-2 (doi10.1136/bmj-2022-073312).3 Deaths and hospital admissions were reduced in patients who received treatment. Ma and colleagues followed more than 15 000 US nurses and health professionals with type 2 diabetes for several decades, updating information on beverage intake every two to four years (doi10.1136/bmj-2022-073406).5 The onset of cardiovascular disease and death from diabetes, as well as overall mortality, were higher in those who consumed more sugar sweetened beverages. For patients with diabetes, for example, one disease and climate friendly recommendation might be to "use your feet for transport.” Since 2021 patients in the US have had free and immediate access to their medical records, thanks to passage of the 21st Century Cures Act.