AGP Executive Report

Diabetes Watch: A new study presented at ENDO 2026 reports type 1 diabetes diagnoses among Puerto Rican teens (ages 15–19) more than doubled from 2009 to 2021, staying elevated through 2024—highlighting an urgent need to understand what’s driving the rise. Water Crisis: Severe water shortages are hitting thousands of Puerto Ricans, including in San Juan, with the National Guard activated and residents relying on bottled water, laundromats, and water trucks—raising serious health risks, especially for elderly and disabled residents. Public Health & Safety Funding: Puerto Rico’s Fiscal Control Board approved $7.3M for permanent improvement projects across 17 municipalities, aimed at boosting infrastructure, economic development, health, and public safety. Health-Related Community Effort: An Oklahoma group is jet skiing from Miami to Puerto Rico to raise awareness and support for children with Progeria, a rare genetic disease. Health System Collaboration: The University of Puerto Rico and the University of Louisiana Monroe signed an agreement to expand academic cooperation, research, and student/faculty exchange. Food Safety Reminder: Puerto Rico shoppers are urged to check pantries after a Pearl Milling pancake mix recall tied to a labeling error. Environmental Health: A report says the Pentagon delayed PFAS cleanup timelines for nearly 200 sites, including locations in Puerto Rico—extending risks to drinking-water systems.

Diabetes Watch: A new ENDO 2026 study reports type 1 diabetes among Puerto Rican teens (ages 15–19) more than doubled from 2009 to 2021 and stayed elevated through 2024, underscoring an urgent need to understand what’s driving the rise. Public Health & Safety: Puerto Rico’s water crisis is worsening, with thousands facing severe shortages in major cities like San Juan; officials activated the National Guard and residents report health impacts as people buy water, use laundromats, and struggle to wash and flush. Local Funding for Health & Infrastructure: Puerto Rico’s Fiscal Control Board approved $7.29M for permanent improvement projects in 17 municipalities, with goals tied to infrastructure, economic development, health, and public safety. Research & Capacity Building: Puerto Rico strengthens technical capacity for severe dengue management in intensive care units, aiming to improve care as dengue risks grow. Health Advocacy: An Oklahoma group is jet-skiing from Miami to Puerto Rico to raise awareness and support for children with Progeria, a rare genetic disease.

Water Crisis in San Juan: Thousands of Puerto Ricans are facing severe water shortages, with the National Guard activated and emergency responders fielding daily calls; residents are buying potable water, using laundromats, and hauling buckets, while elderly and disabled people struggle most and some have been hospitalized. Public Health & Safety Funding: The Fiscal Control Board approved $7.3M for permanent improvement projects in 17 Puerto Rico municipalities, with goals tied to infrastructure, economic development, health, and public safety. Nutrition Assistance Push: Resident Commissioner Pablo Hernández Rivera says GOP Sen. Roger Wicker has joined as a co-sponsor of the Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act, a step toward bringing SNAP to the island; the program’s funding reportedly increased by $78M. Local Business Growth: San Juan will allocate $5M to help create and expand businesses in priority sectors, aiming to boost jobs and investment. Dengue Watch (Regional): Florida health officials issued a heightened dengue alert as cases rise nationally, underscoring mosquito-bite prevention ahead of peak season. University Collaboration: UPR and the University of Louisiana Monroe signed an MOU to expand academic cooperation, research, and student/faculty exchanges.

Water Crisis: Thousands of Puerto Ricans are facing severe water shortages, including in San Juan, where the National Guard has been activated and residents are buying potable water and hauling buckets—officials haven’t pinned down the cause yet, but long-neglected infrastructure and maintenance gaps are being blamed. Nutrition Access: Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera says GOP U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker has joined as a co-sponsor of the Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act, a major step toward bringing SNAP to Puerto Rico after recent PAN funding increases. Local Health & Safety Funding: Puerto Rico’s Fiscal Control Board approved $7.29M for permanent improvement projects in 17 municipalities, with goals tied to infrastructure, economic development, health, and public safety. Public Health Alert: Dengue risk is rising in the U.S. with CDC reporting a 359% surge nationally, and Florida health officials are urging stronger mosquito protection as peak season approaches. Community Health & Injury Prevention: A report highlights a Puerto Rico drowning death involving influencer Michael Flores’ 5-year-old niece, underscoring ongoing risks around pool safety. Healthcare Infrastructure: Separate coverage notes rehabilitation work at hospitals in La Guaira, including ICU and backup systems, as authorities aim to speed care response. Health Advocacy via Rare Disease Awareness: An Oklahoma team is jet-skiing from Miami to Puerto Rico to raise awareness and support for children with Progeria, a rare genetic disease.

Water Crisis in San Juan: Thousands of Puerto Ricans are facing severe water shortages, with the National Guard activated and emergency calls rising as outages hit parts of San Juan and other major cities; residents are buying potable water and relying on water trucks, while officials point to long underinvestment and maintenance gaps. Local Economic Push: San Juan will allocate $5 million to help create and expand small and medium-sized businesses in priority sectors, with permits and technical assistance routed through the Business Concierge at Plaza Las Américas. Dengue Alert in the Region: Florida health officials are warning of peak dengue risk as CDC data show a sharp national surge, with Miami-Dade urging stronger mosquito protection as summer transmission ramps up. Pool Safety Reminder: A CDC-backed reminder is going viral for a reason: showering before swimming helps prevent chloramine irritation and reduces the spread of germs in pools. Food Budget Pressure: Preliminary 2026 consumer spending data in Puerto Rico show lower average monthly spending on food and household products amid economic uncertainty, even as food prices keep climbing. Forever Chemicals Delay: A new report says the Pentagon has delayed PFAS cleanup timelines at nearly 200 sites, including locations tied to Puerto Rico, extending risks to drinking-water safety. Public Health Infrastructure Upgrade: In La Guaira, Venezuela, authorities inspected hospital rehabilitation work to speed response times and keep critical services running—an example of how facility maintenance directly affects patient care.

Public Health & Safety: A Saharan dust advisory in the Caribbean (including nearby areas) lifted after air-quality readings stayed in the “Good to Moderate” range, but officials still urged people—especially those with asthma—to limit prolonged outdoor exertion and seek care for persistent coughing or wheezing. Infectious Disease Watch: With the 2026 World Cup drawing crowds, experts flag measles, dengue, respiratory viruses, and STIs as the most likely clinic concerns, warning that mass travel can spread vaccine-preventable and already-circulating infections fast. Local Health Research: Puerto Rico’s clinical research ecosystem got a spotlight as the PRCCI marks 10 years, citing growth in trial opportunities, research contracts, and physician participation across multiple therapeutic areas. Caregiving & Wellness: A new “Disability Parenting at Sea” conference and cruise is set to sail from Puerto Rico in May 2027, pairing education and wellness with community support for caregivers. Food & Household Pressure: Preliminary 2026 consumer spending data suggests Puerto Ricans are cutting back on food and household products amid economic uncertainty, even as food prices keep rising. Health-Adjacent Policy: A multistate effort led by Virginia’s AG urges Formula 1 to end tobacco and nicotine sponsorships, citing concerns about youth exposure.

Saharan Dust & Respiratory Risk: Officials say air quality is now Good to Moderate after a dust alert lift, but Puerto Rico residents are urged to limit outdoor exertion—especially people with asthma—plus move indoors and seek care for persistent coughing or wheezing. Infant Health Alert: Puerto Rico’s Health Department confirmed an infant botulism case, noting rapid coordination and BabyBIG treatment within 48 hours; CDC testing found botulinum toxin type A. Food Safety for Allergies: FDA recall guidance urges shoppers to check pantries for Pearl Milling Company pancake/waffle mix in Puerto Rico due to a milk/soy labeling error that could trigger serious reactions. Clinical Research Growth: A PRCCI 10-year reflection highlights how Puerto Rico has expanded clinical trial capacity—bringing 300+ trial opportunities and building local research sites across many therapeutic areas. Hidden Inflammation Research: UTHealth Houston reports an oral swab can detect hidden systemic inflammation in primary ciliary dyskinesia, pointing to easier monitoring and more personalized anti-inflammatory care. Measles Concern for Mass Gatherings: Experts flag measles as a top risk for World Cup crowds, citing vaccine gaps and rapid spread in travel hubs. Clinical Capacity for Severe Dengue: Puerto Rico strengthened ICU severe dengue management technical capacity, aiming to improve outcomes during outbreaks.

Infant Health Alert (Puerto Rico): The Puerto Rico Department of Health confirmed an infant botulism case and says treatment with BabyBIG was requested May 28 and administered May 29, after symptoms were first reported May 27—CDC testing detected botulinum toxin type A in a stool sample. Severe Dengue Training (PAHO/CDC + PR): PAHO, CDC, and the PR Department of Health held a June 5–6 workshop to boost ICU readiness for severe dengue and prevent deaths, sharing tools and reviewing fatal-case care gaps. Fertility & Child Development (NIH/ECHO): A large NIH study using data from 15,382 mother-child pairs across 44 sites (including Puerto Rico) found small learning/behavior differences tied to underlying fertility challenges, with higher odds of autism diagnosis, while finding no link between IVF itself and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Lung Disease Monitoring (Research): UTHealth Houston researchers report that an oral swab can detect hidden systemic inflammation in primary ciliary dyskinesia, pointing to better ways to track disease progression and response to anti-inflammatory care. Public Health at Mass Gatherings (World Cup): Experts warn that as World Cup crowds move through airports, hotels, and stadiums, the most likely health threats include measles, dengue, respiratory viruses, and sexually transmitted infections already circulating. Quality & Care Workforce (Puerto Rico connection): The AKC Canine Health Foundation announced its first Cornell sports medicine and rehabilitation resident, Dr. Gabriela Medrano—originally from San Juan—aimed at improving mobility and quality of life for athletic and working dogs.

Infant Health Alert: Puerto Rico’s Health Department confirmed an infant botulism case and says life-saving BabyBIG immunoglobulin was requested and given within about 48 hours, after CDC testing found botulinum toxin type A in a stool sample. Maternal & Child Development Research: NIH-funded ECHO research (including Puerto Rico sites) reports small learning and behavior differences in children linked to parental fertility challenges, while finding no direct harm signal from IVF itself—pointing to underlying subfertility instead. Chronic Lung Care: UTHealth Houston researchers say a simple oral swab can detect hidden systemic inflammation in primary ciliary dyskinesia, a rare lung disease, potentially improving monitoring and treatment planning. Public Health & Food Safety: A report highlights SNAP benefits being paid to deceased people—raising fraud and oversight concerns that can affect nutrition support systems. Local Health System Watch: A U.S. bankruptcy judge authorized the sale of Hospital del Maestro as part of its restructuring, a major step for Puerto Rico’s hospital landscape.

Hospital Restructuring: A U.S. bankruptcy judge in Puerto Rico authorized the sale of Hospital del Maestro, clearing a key step in its 2025 restructuring; the proposed deal is valued at $15.6 million and shifts administrative and governance control to González Group LLC. Public Health & Access: Puerto Rico hit its lowest child poverty rate in more than 30 years, falling from 58% (2022) to 52% (2024), with 248,000 children still living below the poverty line—an issue that can directly shape health outcomes. Behavioral Health Funding: The U.S. added Mississippi to a Medicaid demonstration for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, expanding mental health and substance use treatment and recovery supports—relevant as Puerto Rico and other jurisdictions watch how Medicaid models scale care. Infection Risk Watch: Dengue risk is rising in San Antonio and South Texas as mosquito activity and World Cup travel increase the chance of imported cases sparking local spread; Puerto Rico’s Caribbean context makes this a timely reminder for mosquito control and prevention. Community Health & Pride: The Puerto Rican Cultural Center was named Chicago Pride Parade’s “Out Front” honoree, highlighting long-running LGBTQ+ health and social services work.

Healthcare Operations: A new piece on making healthcare lighting retrofits work says the real challenge isn’t the fixtures—it’s scheduling, logistics, and tight coordination with clinical staff to avoid disruptions while still capturing energy and rebate benefits. Cancer Community: St. Croix’s Relay for Life marked its 25th anniversary with survivors and volunteers, reporting more than $200,000 raised toward a $300,000 goal and spotlighting ovarian cancer survivor Wendy Graham’s message of hope. Public Health Policy: Hawaiʻi Attorney General Anne Lopez is co-leading a 19-state push urging Formula 1 and the FIA to end tobacco and nicotine sponsorships, warning nicotine pouches could normalize addiction for young fans. Clinical Research: Institut Pasteur launched ACT-CHIK, a €15.3M, four-year project to accelerate chikungunya vaccine clinical trials in Africa and prepare for local manufacturing. Local Health Workforce: Hospital Auxilio Mutuo graduated 19 new doctors, underscoring Puerto Rico’s ongoing physician retention needs. Maternal Health: A U.S. Senate bill would expand grants for maternal mental health and substance use support, including workforce growth and stigma reduction.

Chikungunya Vaccine Push: Institut Pasteur launched ACT-CHIK, a €15.3M, four-year EU-funded project to speed chikungunya vaccine clinical trials in Africa and prepare local manufacturing, targeting a measles-virus-based candidate (MV-CHIK) through a large Phase Ib/III study. Cancer Care Update (PR-linked trial): New peer-reviewed results in The Lancet Oncology report that aglatimagene besadenovec plus valacyclovir added to radiotherapy improved disease-free survival in localized prostate cancer, with trial sites including Puerto Rico. Maternal Health Legislation: Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand introduced the “Moms Matter Act” to expand grants for maternal mental health and substance-use support, including workforce growth and stigma reduction. Water Access in Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico expanded emergency potable water distribution in northern communities, adding National Guard tanker trucks and high-capacity deliveries to keep service moving while PRASA recovery continues. UPR Financial Oversight: Puerto Rico’s oversight board certified its own revised fiscal plan for the University of Puerto Rico after rejecting the government’s proposal under PROMESA, citing major deficit and debt risks without reforms. Public Health & Safety: A Medicare fraud prevention reminder urged beneficiaries to watch for suspicious charges and unsolicited calls, while a serious multi-vehicle crash and a fatal private jet accident in the Dominican Republic highlighted ongoing emergency response needs. Local Tragedy: Puerto Rican influencer Michael Flores shared grief after his 5-year-old niece died following an incident at a pool in Salinas, with authorities investigating circumstances.

Medicare Fraud Prevention Week: The Senior Medicare Patrol is urging people with Medicare in Puerto Rico and beyond to watch for fake calls, check Medicare Summary Notices/Explanation of Benefits for odd charges, and report suspected scams to local SMP (1-877-808-2468). Cardiometabolic Research: Amgen shared new ADA 86th Scientific Sessions data showing Repatha reduced major cardiovascular events in high-risk diabetes patients, adding to the push for better diabetes and cholesterol care. Obesity & Menopause: Eli Lilly reported post-hoc trial analyses that Foundayo (orforglipron) was linked to meaningful weight loss across menopause stages, including women with type 2 diabetes. Home Infusion Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network to expand intravenous therapy administration at home in Puerto Rico, aiming to reduce ER visits and improve care transitions. Local Health Access & Workforce: Hospital Auxilio Mutuo graduated 19 new doctors as Puerto Rico faces physician retention challenges, while Fort Buchanan’s clinic enhanced readiness with a new Thrive therapy program. Food Safety: Federal recalls flagged Salmonella risks and other serious issues, with special attention for island supply chains. Public Funding for Nutrition: Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner said the U.S. House approved FY2027 funding that includes PAN nutrition support and community projects. Health Incident: Authorities reported a niece of influencer Michael Flores died after an incident at a pool in Salinas, with interviews underway.

GLP-1 & Women’s Health: Eli Lilly reported new analyses on Foundayo (orforglipron) showing significant weight loss for women at every menopause stage, including those with type 2 diabetes—an update that could matter for Puerto Rico’s obesity and cardiometabolic care. Medicare Advantage Watch: KFF outlined what to expect in 2026 for Medicare Advantage, including premiums, out-of-pocket limits, supplemental benefits, and prior authorization—useful for patients navigating coverage choices. Food Safety Alerts: Federal recalls flagged Salmonella risks and other serious grocery issues, with guidance to check labels and act fast to reduce foodborne illness exposure. Water Safety in Puerto Rico: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company launched SwimSafe P.R. 2.0, expanding real-time beach and waterway safety tools to support prevention and safer recreation. Local Access to Care: Alivia Health expanded home infusion services via a specialized nursing network, aiming to reduce unnecessary ER visits by bringing IV therapies to patients when appropriate. Community Health & Compliance: DACO said inspections found no proof behind social media claims about supermarkets hiding expiration dates, while continuing active surveillance.

Home Infusion Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network under Alivia Infusion Services to deliver IV therapies and specialized medications at home in Puerto Rico, aiming to reduce avoidable ER visits and improve care transitions. Water Safety Push: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company rolled out SwimSafe P.R. 2.0 with new tech and real-time beach and waterway safety info to support prevention and safer recreation. Hospital Upgrade: Mayagüez Medical Center–San Antonio Hospital began a $6.2M renovation to modernize patient rooms, the Pediatric ICU, delivery room, and operating rooms. Food Safety Alerts: Federal regulators and major retailers issued urgent Salmonella-related recalls tied to grocery items, urging shoppers to check packaging and batch details. Community Nutrition Funding: Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner said the U.S. House approved FY2027 funding that protects PAN and includes community and agricultural project money for the island. Local Health Access: OMNI Healthcare added trauma surgeon Dr. Edgar Figueroa, highlighting continued investment in expanding access to care.

Home-Based Care Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network to strengthen Alivia Infusion Services, bringing IV therapies and specialized medications to patients’ homes in Puerto Rico to reduce ER visits and improve care continuity. Hospital Upgrades in the West: Mayagüez started a $6.2M renovation at San Antonio Hospital, targeting patient rooms, the Pediatric ICU, delivery room, and operating rooms to modernize services for thousands. Water Safety for Families: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company rolled out SwimSafe P.R. 2.0 with new tech and real-time info to help residents and visitors make safer choices at beaches and waterways. Public Health Readiness: A World Cup public health prep report highlights drills and coordination for outbreaks and extreme conditions—relevant for Puerto Rico’s own emergency planning mindset. Workforce & Access Context: Puerto Rico’s labor market update points to a record-low unemployment rate, while officials push reintegration into the workforce. Community Health Watch: DACO says supermarket expiration-date complaints are under active surveillance, with inspectors reporting no irregularities so far.