Health

Accessibility Is Taking a Hit Across the Sciences

Published

10 months ago

February 22, 2025

Accessibility Is Taking a Hit Across the Sciences

Tyler Nelson, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Florida, studies the neurobiology of pain, a choice partly motivated by his own frustrations with a neuromuscular disability. Last October, he applied for a grant at the National Institutes of Health that, if awarded, would support his dream of someday running his own lab.

But, earlier in February, he learned that his application, which took six months to pull together, was about to be thrown out.

The reason: Dr. Nelson had applied for a version of the award that supports researchers who are historically underrepresented in science, including people with disabilities. That funding avenue now violates President Trump’s executive order banning federal agencies from activities related to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, or D.E.I.A.

Dr. Nelson was tipped off by an N.I.H. affiliate, but he has received no official notice about the situation. “I’ve tried to call probably 150 times,” he said. Unofficially, he learned that the agency was planning to pull his submission altogether rather than move it to the general award pool for consideration. This has happened with at least one other type of award offered by the agency, which did not respond to a request for comment.

Thanks to the tip, Dr. Nelson was able to withdraw his application and resubmit it to the general award pool before its deadline — but he is unsure if others were so lucky.

“What this does is discriminate against people who are underrepresented,” said an N.I.H. reviewer who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation. The reviewer added that the evaluation criteria for the general and diversity award pools were the same, with no priority given to either pool. “I can’t stress enough,” the reviewer said, that an undeserving grant “is not going to get funded, whether it’s ‘diversity’ or not.”

According to Eve Hill, a civil rights lawyer in Washington, D.C., this may violate certain legal protections for people with disabilities, although there is no precedent in court.

“They’ve provided this category to overcome past discrimination,” she said. “By not then considering them in the general award, they are exacerbating that discrimination.”

The predicament is one of many ways that accessibility across the sciences is taking a hit from the D.E.I.A. shutdown. Federal agencies, once proponents for increasing opportunities for scientists with disabilities, are now ceasing programs geared toward that goal. Left uncertain is how funding for disability research — from designing accessible health services to building better prosthetics — will be affected by the order.

People with disabilities make up more than a quarter of the nation’s population and are considered to be the world’s largest minority. But experts say that, until recently, disability has largely been neglected in discussions about marginalized groups.

“Accessibility was always seen as an afterthought,” said Kim Knackstedt, a disability policy consultant in Washington, D.C. “Whether intentional or not, disability has been excluded from a lot of D.E.I. efforts.”

That extends to the sciences. The National Science Foundation reported that, in 2021, people with disabilities made up only 3 percent of the STEM work force. Only in 2023 did the N.I.H. designate people with disabilities as a community that experienced health disparities.

As the first director of disability policy in the Biden administration, Dr. Knackstedt led a push for accessibility to be at the forefront of diversity, equity and inclusion policy. One outcome of this effort was an executive order issued by President Biden that explicitly named accessibility as an area to strengthen in the federal work force.

“That was a win for many of us,” said Bonnielin Swenor, an epidemiologist who founded the Disability Health Research Center at Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Swenor, who experienced barriers pursuing a research career because of a visual impairment, added that it was disheartening “to have that progress not just stopped, but rolled back.”

Federal science agencies scrambled to comply with the reversal, leaving scientists and disability advocates apprehensive about the future of accessibility research. Earlier this month, the National Science Foundation began flagging grants that contained buzzwords commonly associated with D.E.I.A., including “disability” and “barrier.”

An N.S.F. program director, who asked not to be named out of fear of retaliation, said that there were “quite a few awards flagged for the word ‘disability,’” including projects to make driving and computing more accessible. The program director added that staff members were unsure if these research activities were banned by the executive order.

A spokesman for the N.S.F. did not answer questions sent by The New York Times regarding the eligibility of such awards.

Robert Gregg, an engineer at the University of Michigan who designs wearable robots for people with mobility impairments, said he had received notification from the N.S.F. to halt D.E.I.A. activities. But he interpreted that to mean supplemental programs aimed at increasing participation of underrepresented groups in science.

“Fundamental research in technology, like robotics and A.I. — my understanding is that that is still perfectly valid and can continue,” he said. But Dr. Gregg also runs clinical trials funded by the N.I.H., and he recently learned that the renewal process for this funding had effectively been frozen again.

Scientists with disabilities are also worried about what the clampdown on accessibility will mean for both their own careers and those of the next generation.

“Disabled people were barely being included,” said Alyssa Paparella, a graduate student at the Baylor College of Medicine who founded an online movement called #DisabledInSTEM. “Now there’s a huge fear of what’s going to be the future of all of us.”

A notice on the N.I.H. website encouraging participation of people with disabilities in the research enterprise has been removed, as has an N.S.F. webpage that listed funding opportunities for scientists with disabilities. Last month, the N.S.F. also indefinitely postponed an engineering workshop to better include people with autism and other neurocognitive differences in the work force.

In the geosciences, many degree programs require students to complete weekslong outdoor field camps that can be difficult to navigate with certain disabilities. This led Anita Marshall, a lecturer at the University of Florida, to found GeoSPACE, an N.S.F.-funded camp that incorporates modern technology and can be completed virtually.

She did not know if GeoSPACE would be able to continue. “This has really knocked me off my feet,” said Dr. Marshall, who described the project as her pride and joy. “I’m not sure what’s next.”

Doubts have sprung up for Dr. Nelson, too. Although he managed to salvage his application for N.I.H. funding, the change has pushed back any clarity about his future in research by at least five months.

“It’s a really dismal time in science for trainees,” he said. “I look at the last 15 years, like, ‘Why did I work this underpaid, high-stress job?’ Do I want to do this forever?”

Click to comment

Health

5 winter-weather essentials to protect skin health in dangerously cold temperatures

Published

10 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Press Room

5 winter-weather essentials to protect skin health in dangerously cold temperatures

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts.

But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat.

Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference.

VIRAL ALL-WHITE WELLNESS PUSH COULD BOOST MENTAL HEALTH — HERE ARE 4 ESSENTIALS TO CONSIDER

Here are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.

Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com

Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)

A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.

Yet, if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.

BACKYARD BIRDING IS BOOMING — HERE ARE MUST-HAVE GIFTS TOPPING WISH LISTS THIS SEASON

“You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.

Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.

Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com

Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)

Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth.

Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

“Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.

She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.

Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com

Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)

Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.

Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

“Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”

Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com

Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)

When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.

“Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

She also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.

Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.com

A traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage.

Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)

“Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said.

“Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

She recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes.

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health.

Health

Foods and Drinks That Help With Bloating: Flatten Your Belly in Days

Published

21 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Press Room

Foods and Drinks That Help With Bloating: Flatten Your Belly in Days

Foods That Help With Bloating and Shrink Your Waist Fast | Woman’s World

Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items.

Use escape to exit the menu.

Create a free account to access exclusive content, play games, solve puzzles, test your pop-culture knowledge and receive special offers.
Already have an account? Login

Health

What to know about Cushing’s syndrome, which led to Amy Schumer’s dramatic weight loss

Published

22 hours ago

December 13, 2025

Press Room

What to know about Cushing’s syndrome, which led to Amy Schumer’s dramatic weight loss

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Comedian Amy Schumer, 44, has recently come clean about her struggle with Cushing’s syndrome, leading to a dramatic weight loss.

Schumer’s transformation has sparked conversation online, to which she responded in a now-deleted Instagram post that shut down speculation about cosmetic enhancements.

“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” she emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler.

AMY SCHUMER DROPPED 50 POUNDS TO BATTLE DISEASE THAT ‘CAN KILL YOU’ IF UNTREATED

Schumer doubled down that her weight loss was not about her appearance, but about staying alive.

“Not to look hot, which does feel fun and temporary,” she said. “I did it to survive. I had a disease that makes your face extremely puffy that can kill you, but the internet caught it and that disease has cleared.”

Amy Schumer attends Variety’s 2024 Power of Women: New York event on May 2, 2024, in New York City on the left. On the right, Schumer later poses for a photo posted to Instagram after her weight loss. (Marleen Moise/WireImage; Amy Schumer/Instagram)

“Sorry for whatever feeling it’s giving you that I lost that weight,” she added. “I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro]. Sorry to anyone they let down. I’m pain free. I can [play] tag with my son.”

ON A GLP-1? HOW TO SURVIVE HOLIDAY MEALS WITHOUT DERAILING YOUR PROGRESS

The actress also addressed her shifting hormones, saying that she’s “happy to share more if anyone has any questions about how I’m looking or feeling or where I am in my perimenopause process.”

“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” Schumer emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler. (Amy Schumer/Instagram)

What is Cushing’s syndrome?

Schumer previously revealed that she had been diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder that can cause extreme swelling, fatigue and potentially fatal complications.

Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight loss specialist in New Jersey, provided more details on the condition in an interview with Fox News Digital.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

“Cushing’s syndrome is caused by prolonged, high exposure to cortisol, which is your body’s main stress hormone,” he said. “Usually, the excess cortisol is a result of prolonged steroid use. We see this many times with patients who have some autoimmune disorder.”

Balazs said the “key” to Cushing’s syndrome is not just weight gain, but a “specific redistribution” of fat caused by too much cortisol.

Amy Schumer is photographed during a guest interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Feb. 13, 2024 (left), and later seen walking through midtown New York City on Oct. 28, 2025 (right). (Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Images; Raymond Hall/GC Images/Getty Images)

Fat may be driven to the abdomen, chest, upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”) or face, sometimes considered “moon face,” the doctor said.

Cortisol also breaks down protein, which leads to a thinning in the arms and legs. “Weight gain can be tough, involuntary and hard to manage,” Balazs added.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES

Cortisol stimulates “hunger centers” in the brain, raises blood sugar and promotes fat storage, especially deep belly fat, according to the doctor.

Cushing’s syndrome can also cause high blood pressure, bone loss and sometimes type 2 diabetes, per Mayo Clinic.

In addition to weight gain in certain areas, other symptoms may include pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts and underarms, as well as acne, slow wound healing, and thin, frail skin that bruises easily.

With Cushing’s syndrome, fat may accumulate in the abdomen, chest, face or upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”). (iStock)

Women with Cushing’s syndrome often experience thick, dark hair on the face and body, as well as irregular periods. Symptoms among men can include a lower sex drive, reduced fertility and erectile dysfunction.

Mayo Clinic listed other potential symptoms, including extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, trouble with concentration and memory, headache, sleeplessness, skin darkening and stunted growth in children.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Those with symptoms should contact their doctor immediately, especially if they are taking steroids to treat health issues like asthma, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, as these medications can exacerbate the condition.

The Mayo Clinic has reported that the “sooner treatment starts, the better the chances for recovery.”

“I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro],” Schumer stated in a social media post. (George Frey/Bloomberg)

For patients like Schumer, weight loss is typically not the main goal, Balazs noted, but it is a “critical sign” of successful treatment.

“The primary goal is to normalize your high cortisol levels,” he said. “I believe Amy Schumer got treated first for her underlying problem. Once the cortisol is normalized, which is the most important step, there’s a role to use adjunct medications to decrease weight.”

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Among GLP-1s, Mounjaro is an “excellent choice to decrease deep belly fat and increase insulin sensitivity of cells,” Balazs added.

Fox News Digital’s Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.

Fox News Digital reached out to Schumer’s rep requesting comment.

Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.