Major cell phone carriers are implementing a new technology called "georouting," directing 988 suicide and crisis hotline callers to help centers based on their physical location rather than their phone number's area code. This change aims to connect individuals in mental health or substance use crises with localized resources, ultimately improving care and saving lives.   The 988 life...

Recent research highlights the increased cancer risk associated with alcohol consumption. A report by the American Association for Cancer Research links excessive drinking to six cancers: breast, colorectal, liver, stomach, head and neck, and esophageal. Experts like Dr. Céline Gounder emphasize that even moderate drinking can alter the gut microbiome and promote inflammation, contributing to...

A recent Gallup and West Health survey found that two-thirds of Americans believe health care is not receiving enough attention in the presidential election. While 67% of respondents expressed concern, only 6% think it’s getting too much focus. Both Democrats and independents are more likely than Republicans to feel this way, although 53% of GOP voters also agree.   Key health issues f...

A new study reveals that more than one-third of children worldwide were nearsighted in 2023, and this rate is expected to rise to almost 40% by 2050. The rise in myopia, especially in Southeast Asia, is linked to early schooling and increased screen time, which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.   Researchers emphasize the importance of reducing screen exposure and increasing outdoor...

Extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change, poses significant risks to pregnant individuals, particularly leading to increased severe maternal morbidity and mortality. Notably, a 27% rise in severe complications has been observed due to heat exposure during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. Black women and low-wage pregnant workers are disproportionately affected, with system...

The New York City Department of Health (DOH) faces staffing shortages, leading to delayed health inspections, which worries many restaurant owners. Currently, only about 66 percent of the city's 27,000 food establishments were inspected between July 2023 and June 2024, down from 83 percent the previous year.   The DOH attributes this to a 20 percent drop in public health inspectors sin...

The FDA has approved the first self-administered flu vaccine, offering a new option to increase flu vaccination accessibility. Adults can now administer FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine, at home without a healthcare provider present. This option may help address the decline in flu vaccination rates, which fell below 50% during the 2022-2023 season.   Available for those aged 2 to 49, Flu...

Whooping cough (pertussis) outbreaks have surged to the highest levels in a decade, with over 14,500 cases reported in 2024—four times higher than last year. Experts attribute this rise to post-pandemic vaccine hesitancy, particularly among adolescents whose immunity has waned since their childhood vaccinations. This highly contagious respiratory infection is often undetected, allowing it to ...

The Florida Department of Health recently advised older residents to avoid mRNA COVID-19 boosters, a stance criticized by public health experts as dangerous and politically motivated. Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo's claims, based on misinformation from anti-vaccine sources, contradict scientific consensus and undermine public trust in vaccines.   Experts warn this guidance could increa...