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The increase in measles cases in the U.S. in 2024 can be attributed to
several factors. Firstly, the disease remains prevalent in many parts of the
world, leading to importation of measles by unvaccinated travelers. Most
of the recent importations involved unvaccinated Americans who
acquired the infection in regions such as the Middle East and Africa.
Additionally, outbreaks within the U.S., particularly in areas with lower
vaccination rates, have contributed to the spread of the virus. Despite the
availability of the measles vaccine, vaccination rates have fallen below the
recommended threshold of 95%, leaving certain communities vulnerable
to outbreaks.
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Hospitals are reevaluating their approach to babies born exposed to
drugs, shifting away from automatic reporting to welfare services and
instead focusing on a more nuanced evaluation of the infant's situation.
This new approach aims to determine whether the newborn is at risk of
physical or emotional harm, rather than solely focusing on substance
exposure. By involving multidisciplinary care teams who are familiar with
the family's situation, hospitals can better assess whether the child's basic
needs are being met and whether there are concerns about their wellbeing.
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The study found that a majority of cancer drugs granted accelerated
approval did not demonstrate significant benefits within five years, yet
many were converted to regular approval status despite this. This raises
concerns about patients potentially receiving medications with
uncertain
efficacy. The findings underscore the importance of clear communication
between healthcare providers and patients regarding the evidence
supporting drugs with accelerated approval.
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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced national
limits for six types of PFAS in drinking water, marking the first time such
restrictions have been implemented on a federal level. PFAS, often
referred to as "forever chemicals," are notorious for their persistence in the
environment and association with various health issues, including cancer.
While the new regulations represent a significant step forward, activists
emphasize the need for continued efforts to address the broader array of
PFAS compounds and their impact on public health and the environment.
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The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented new
regulations targeting over 200 chemical manufacturing facilities
releasing airborne toxins such as ethylene oxide, chloroprene, benzene,
and others. These rules aim to protect communities residing near these
facilities, particularly those disproportionately affected by hazardous
pollutants, often low-income and Black or brown populations. By reducing
allowable emissions and requiring fence line air monitoring, the EPA
anticipates a significant reduction in cancer risk and better transparency
regarding chemical exposure for affected communities.
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