The medications, used to treat arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, are also associated with an elevated cancer risk. 

Conflicts of interest and undisclosed financial associations may pose a problem for many medical journals.

“Measuring healthcare spending by race and ethnicity is important for understanding patterns in utilization and treatment,” researchers said.

The FDA has requested additional data before approving roxadustat.

The news is part of Philip Morris International's mission to move into other areas, including healthcare. 

He was also ordered to pay $1.2 million in restitution. 

The company's new hire comes with years of industry experience. Most recently, he helped lead Medtronic's aortic business. 

The open-access journal will provide content targeting new and emerging trends in cardiovascular medicine.