StevenSaus

An unconditional cash transfer of $100 monthly may enhance health outcomes for cancer survivors experiencing food insecurity, according to research in JNCI Cancer Spectrum. The study involved 17 patients with breast or gynecologic cancer at the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center. Those receiving the cash transfer reported better physical health and diet quality, with fewer food insecurity indicators. At 3 months, none in the cash transfer group reported severe food insecurity, compared to the usual care group. Additionally, 80% of the cash transfer group consumed at least 2.5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily, versus 22% in the usual care group.

Childhood trauma can increase the risk of major diseases later in life, with variations based on individual experiences and sex, according to new research. The study found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) disrupt metabolic, neurologic, endocrine, and immune systems. The research shows that the biological impact of stressors is generally larger for females, while emotional abuse and neglect have more significant health impacts on males.

This is why I will confront anti-vaxxers in public.

Nearly 200 children died from influenza-related complications in the 2023-24 season, according to the CDC. Most of these children were eligible for a vaccine but did not receive one. The CDC reported that only 53% of children aged 6 months to 17 years were vaccinated this season, down from 56% the previous season. Vaccination rates were notably lower among Black children and those in rural areas.

cross-posted from: https://midwest.social/post/16766192

Cost, wait times, transportation problems, and negative interactions with healthcare professionals are causing U.S. women to delay or skip medical care, according to a Deloitte survey. Half of the surveyed women reported forgoing care in the past year, compared to 37% of men. Women require nearly 10% more health services than men but are 35% more likely to skip or delay care. Financial issues, access gaps, and poor provider experiences are key factors. Deloitte suggests increased investment in women's health products and a multi-pronged strategy involving providers, insurers, and policymakers to improve women's healthcare.

Cost, wait times, transportation problems, and negative interactions with healthcare professionals are causing U.S. women to delay or skip medical care, according to a Deloitte survey. Half of the surveyed women reported forgoing care in the past year, compared to 37% of men. Women require nearly 10% more health services than men but are 35% more likely to skip or delay care. Financial issues, access gaps, and poor provider experiences are key factors. Deloitte suggests increased investment in women's health products and a multi-pronged strategy involving providers, insurers, and policymakers to improve women's healthcare.

New research from Northwestern Medicine in Chicago shows that states with the most severe abortion restrictions often lack robust public support programs for low-income families. The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, categorized states based on their abortion laws and assessed access to reproductive healthcare and social services. The research also revealed that the most restrictive states had the highest rates of uninsured women of reproductive age and lower enrollment in state-funded assistance programs.

A STAT investigation reveals that race-based algorithms are still prevalent in healthcare, affecting millions of patients. Clinicians and researchers are debating the best ways to modify these tools to reduce harm and promote fairness. The Biden administration has introduced a rule to address discriminatory tools, but advocates remain skeptical about its impact.

Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital in Murfreesboro has reportedly stopped offering forensic exams for sexual assault survivors since early this year. Ericka Downing, director of the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center, said no exams have been performed since January. District Attorney Jennings Jones expressed concern, stating the hospital’s refusal to provide forensic exams hampers prosecution efforts. Despite these claims, hospital spokesperson David Leaverton denied any change in services, citing challenges in maintaining 24/7 nurse coverage. Rachel Freeman, CEO of Nashville's Sexual Assault Center, confirmed her facility has conducted exams for Rutherford County survivors.

Former President Donald Trump is facing backlash for holding rallies in places described as "sundown towns."

Dr. Kade Goepferd, medical director of Children’s Minnesota Hospital’s Gender Health Program, like many providers who treat transgender youths, has received death threats. Goepferd said the growing waitlist, which has expanded due to surrounding states' bans on gender-affirming care, is more concerning. The program has seen a 30% increase in calls, leading to a waitlist of at least a year. NBC News found that clinicians in states like Connecticut and California are similarly overwhelmed by the influx of out-of-state patients. Legal risks and logistical challenges, such as insurance denials, are straining providers. Shield laws are "a tenuous protection," according to Dr. Molly McClain of the University of New Mexico’s Deseo clinic. A "majority of gender-affirming care providers NBC News interviewed had received threats, ranging from angry calls and emails to arson."

cross-posted from: https://midwest.social/post/16044688

Brain enlargement may be linked to symptom severity in kids with autism spectrum disorder

Specifically, social and communication symptoms appear to be more severe in children who display brain overgrowth on MRI scans. Experts believe this overgrowth may be associated with alterations in the activity of the Ndel1 enzyme, which is related to embryonic neuron differentiation and migration.

Study: https://molecularautism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13229-024-00602-8

Brain enlargement may be linked to symptom severity in kids with autism spectrum disorder

Specifically, social and communication symptoms appear to be more severe in children who display brain overgrowth on MRI scans. Experts believe this overgrowth may be associated with alterations in the activity of the Ndel1 enzyme, which is related to embryonic neuron differentiation and migration.

Study: https://molecularautism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13229-024-00602-8