Category: Public Health

States with the best, worst childhood vaccination rates

Routine vaccination rates for children in the U.S. continue to decline, according to data analyzed by the Center for American Progress. It is a situation that has worsened since COVID-19’s onset. 

Arizona health officials warn about rising fungal infection risks

The Arizona Department of Health Services issued a notice Sept. 26 warning clinicians and residents to be on the lookout for a fungi-caused infection known as Valley Fever. 

COVID-19 admissions dip: 5 updates

New COVID-19 admissions were down slightly for the week ending Sept. 16, marking the first time since July weekly hospitalizations haven’t increased.

5 things to know about weight from a bariatric surgeon

You’ve probably had friends and family corner you to look at a rash or talk about medications. With social media exploding about Ozempic, these questions and even curbsides from physicians have boomed. We all want to know more about weight. As a …

A Decades-Long Drop in Teen Births Is Slowing, and Advocates Worry a Reversal Is Coming

After three decades of declines in teen pregnancies, data shows the rates are starting to plateau. The reversal of “Roe v. Wade,” coupled with efforts to suspend sex education in schools and higher rates of youth mental health issues post-pandemic, could culminate in a perfect storm.

Epidemic: The Tata Way

Episode 5 of the “Eradicating Smallpox” podcast explores how a partnership between public health institutions and a huge, influential private company was key in the campaign to eliminate smallpox.

Officials Agree: Use Settlement Funds to Curb Youth Addiction. But the ‘How’ Gets Hairy.

Parents, educators, and elected officials agree that investing in school-based prevention efforts could help curb the rising rate of youth drug overdoses. The well-known D.A.R.E. program is one likely choice, but its effectiveness is in question.

Contemporary weight loss: Unveiling the quest for elusive elixir

Recently, I received a call from an old friend. We had drifted apart over the years, but his purpose in calling wasn’t rooted in a desire to rekindle the embers of yesteryears. No. Rather, it was an explicit inquiry into whether I could assist hi…

A COVID-19 plateau could come with caveat, experts say

In some parts of the nation, wastewater surveillance data suggests the COVID-19 uptick may have peaked. If cases do start to decline over the next few weeks, that doesn’t mean the U.S. is in the clear this winter, however. 

When You Think About Your Health, Don’t Forget Your Eyes

Americans think losing their eyesight would be one of the worst possible health outcomes, yet millions lack a fundamental understanding of eye health.