Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:
Unclear if Heat-Not-Burn Tobacco Device Poses Fewer Health Risks Than Cigarettes: FDA
It's not clear whether lower levels of some harmful chemicals produced by a device that heats tobacco without burning it would mean fewer health risks for users, compared with traditional cigarettes, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration review says.
Vapor from the iQOS device from Philip Morris International contained between 55 to 99 percent lower levels of certain dangerous chemicals than cigarette smoke, according to the FDA review released Monday, the Associated Press reported.
However, laboratory and animal studies conducted by the company suggest the chemicals could still be toxic and contribute to precancerous growths.
Philip Morris is seeking permission to sell the device in the U.S. and will present study findings to a panel of FDA advisers this week. A recommendation from the panel is expected Thursday, and the FDA will make a final decision later this year, the AP reported.
The iQOS device heats strips of tobacco but does not burn them, producing tobacco vapor that contains nicotine. This is different from electronic cigarettes, which vaporize liquid that typically contains nicotine.
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Jazz Legend Hugh Masekela Dies at Age 78
Jazz legend Hugh Masekela died at age 78 after a long struggle against cancer.
Masekela died in Johannesburg, South Africa died after a "protracted and courageous battle with prostate cancer," his family said in a statement released Tuesday, the Associated Press reported.
The trumpeter, singer and composer took up the horn at 14 and quickly became part of the 1950s jazz scene in Johannesburg.
In the 1960s, Masekela went into exile in the United States and the United Kingdom. He used his music to increase awareness about oppressive white-minority rule in South Africa. In 1968, he had an international number one hit with "Grazing in the Grass," the AP reported.
He collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Harry Belafonte, Herb Alpert and Paul Simon.
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Neil Diamond Announces Retirement After Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis
Neil Diamond announced Monday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and will retire from performing.
He has canceled the third leg of his 50th anniversary tour because "the onset of the disease has made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis," according to the singer's website, USA Today reported.
"It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years," Diamond in a statement.
He will turn 77 on Wednesday and will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys on Sunday, USA Today reported.
