Health and medicine news is constantly evolving, and staying up to date is crucial. Here are some important updates from the world of health and medicine:
‘A pillar of public health’ is knocked down
SNAP-Ed, a program focused on educating people about healthy eating habits, is facing major cuts as part of the federal budget bill. Despite its success in promoting nutrition and healthy lifestyles, the program is set to end this year. Public health experts are concerned about the impact of these cuts and are advocating for the continuation of SNAP-Ed. Read more about the reactions to these cuts from experts and community members who are involved in nutrition education.
Down: Tobacco use, binge drinking. Up: Smoking weed
A recent federal survey revealed that Americans are smoking tobacco and binge drinking less, but the consumption of marijuana has increased significantly. Substance use disorder continues to be a prevalent issue, affecting almost 17% of the population. While rates of alcohol use disorder have decreased, it remains the most common substance use disorder in the country. Learn more about the latest trends in drug use and mental health in the US.
Trump admin wants to ban concentrated 7-OH (what?)
The FDA is taking steps to regulate 7-OH, a psychoactive compound derived from the kratom plant, by categorizing it as a controlled substance. Kratom, a plant from Southeast Asia, has gained popularity in the US for its recreational and pain-relieving properties. The FDA’s decision to target products with elevated levels of 7-OH has raised questions about the safety and regulation of kratom. Discover more about this regulatory action and its potential implications.
What the country’s most prominent nutrition scientist actually eats
Kevin Hall, a leading nutrition scientist, shares his insights on the MAHA movement and the administration’s food policies. Hall emphasizes the importance of scientific evidence in shaping food regulations and challenges common misconceptions about nutrition. Learn more about Hall’s perspective on ultra-processed foods and the impact of artificial dyes on children’s health.
60%
A recent analysis published in The Lancet highlights that 60% of liver cancers globally are preventable by addressing risk factors such as viral hepatitis, alcohol consumption, and metabolic conditions. Liver cancer remains a significant cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with hepatitis B virus playing a major role in its prevalence. The study underscores the importance of preventive measures in reducing the burden of liver cancer globally.
On Trump’s ‘woke AI’ executive order
President Trump’s executive order on AI has raised concerns among health AI experts, including Karandeep Singh, chief health AI officer at UC San Diego Health. Singh criticizes the order for its approach to AI development and its impact on health-related applications. Learn more about the implications of this executive order and the challenges it poses for the field of health AI.
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