Guns are now the leading cause of death among kids in the United States. That’s the chilling message from a new study that looked at numbers of U.S. children killed by guns from 2018 to 2021. During this time, there was close to a 42% jump in firearm-caused deaths. “There is a skyrocketing rate of… read on > read on >
All Mommy:
Maryland Reports Case of Locally Acquired Malaria
There’s been another case of locally acquired malaria in the United States, this time in Maryland, authorities report. It’s the first time this has happened in that state in 40 years. No evidence connects this case to seven locally acquired infections in Florida or another one in Texas that were previously reported, according to the… read on >
Social Media Is Parents’ Top Concern as Kids Head Back to School: Poll
When U.S. parents express their concerns about their school-aged children, social media use and the internet are at the top of the list. Mental health issues are another top worry, according to the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. “Parents still view problems directly impacting physical health, including… read on > read on >
Does Prior Omicron Infection Shield Against Future Infection? Maybe Not
People may assume that a COVID-19 infection protects them the next time they encounter the virus, but that’s not necessarily true. A new study of 750 vaccinated seniors living in retirement homes and long-term care facilities found that those infected during the first omicron wave were actually more vulnerable to reinfection with a later wave.… read on > read on >
Great Step for Baby: Walkable Neighborhoods Linked to Safer Pregnancies
Walkable neighborhoods — with sidewalks, parks and paths — encourage pregnant women to get more exercise, which leads to good outcomes for both mom and baby. New research looks at the influence of these walkable communities on this activity, which is considered safe for pregnant women. “Gestational diabetes is a growing issue and low birth… read on > read on >
Women With Larger Breasts May Be Less Likely to Exercise, Study Finds
Women who have larger breasts tend to exercise less or less intensely, according to a new study that suggests having breast reduction surgery could be a game changer. Australian researchers looking at exercise participation for women in this category called for more accessible, publicly funded breast reduction and other interventions. The study used survey results… read on > read on >
Is Your Child Lagging in Reading Skills? An Expert Offers Tips
Helping a child who struggles with reading can be a rewarding experience. A nationally known expert offers some tips for parents who are trying to help their child work through these difficulties. Patricia Edwards, professor of language and literacy at Michigan State University’s College of Education, said it’s essential to approach this challenge with patience,… read on > read on >
The #1 Enemy of Good Sleep for School Kids: Screens
Video games and social media are keeping school kids up at night, according to a new survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). But so, too, are more constructive pursuits, including homework and extracurricular activities, which can be a problem when it comes to setting a good sleep routine early in the school… read on > read on >
Does Smoking Change the Teenage Brain?
Teens’ desire to start smoking, and later to keep smoking, may be linked to differences in gray matter in their brains, a new study reveals. Researchers found that reduced gray matter in the left frontal lobe was found in kids who started smoking by age 14. This area is involved in decision-making and rule-breaking. Once… read on > read on >
CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens
Vaping CBD (cannabidiol) is on the rise among middle and high school students, according to a national U.S. survey, and health experts warn there can be serious risks involved. More than 1 in 5 students who use electronic cigarettes said they had vaped CBD, a component of marijuana that does not get people high the… read on > read on >