Older drivers using alcohol or drugs are much more likely to be at fault in a car crash. Researchers studying the issue say that calls for sober-driving campaigns aimed at seniors. “Our research shows just how much aging increases the risk of being at fault for injury or fatality in a drug- or alcohol-related traffic… read on > read on >
All Travel:
Asthma, Lower Grades, Homelessness: How Climate Change Will Harm America’s Kids
Children are uniquely vulnerable to the effects of climate change, a new report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows. Climate change can affect learning, physical health and housing security, which can last throughout the child’s life, according to the report. “Understanding health risks to children is critical for developing effective and equitable strategies… read on > read on >
U.S. Roadway Deaths Marked Small Decline in 2022
Traffic deaths are down on U.S. roadways, but the small drop pales in comparison to the surging rate of recent years. Deaths in traffic crashes fell 0.3% last year compared to 2021, according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). On average, crashes claimed the lives of 117 people a day — more… read on > read on >
Vacations Are No Time to Take a Holiday From Allergy & Asthma Treatments
Summer is almost here, and its arrival brings opportunities for many people – including those who suffer with allergies and asthma — to plan vacations away from home. A recent article titled “Allergies don’t take a vacation” in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology encourages those with allergies and asthma to consider their conditions and… read on > read on >
Devastating Tornadoes Leave Hazards in Their Wake: Tips to Stay Safe
Tornadoes bring with them many dangers, but perhaps not so evident are the risks from colorless and odorless carbon monoxide (CO) from generators used to temporarily restore power. With parts of the United States expecting another round of severe weather, the Consumer Product Safety Commission offers tips to avoid CO poisoning or fires in the… read on > read on >
Half of U.S. Drivers Say They Often Use Cellphones Behind the Wheel
Texting and driving can be deadly. Holding your phone in your hand to talk and surfing the internet while behind the wheel is dangerous, too. This is widely known, but a new survey finds that about half of all respondents still use an electronic device most or every time they drive. “I’d say it’s not… read on > read on >
Fully Legalizing Marijuana Could Raise Car Crash Rates
Marijuana legalization in the United States appears to be driving an increase in car crash deaths due to a jump in “intoxicated driving,” researchers say. In 4 out of 7 states that legalized recreational cannabis, deaths from car crashes rose 10%, according to the University of Illinois Chicago study. On a brighter note, suicide and… read on > read on >
New Tropical Species of Mosquito Migrates Into Florida
Florida has yet another new mosquito species in its midst that has migrated from the tropics, settling in at least three counties since 2018. It’s not yet clear whether this one, called Culex lactator, will contribute to transmission of mosquito-borne viruses in the state, but scientists are concerned about the rate of new mosquitoes arriving… read on > read on >
Even Minor Traffic Accidents Can Raise a Woman’s Odds for Birth Complications
“Baby on Board” warning stickers apply even when there’s a mom-to-be in the vehicle, a new study argues. Pregnant women involved in traffic collisions are at heightened risk of potentially serious birth complications, even if the wreck only involves minor injuries, researchers report. These complications can include dislodgement of the placenta, very heavy bleeding, and… read on > read on >
Post-Hurricane Period Is Dangerous for People With Dementia
Hurricanes not only disrupt the communities they affect, they also pose an increased risk of death for people with dementia. This heightened risk could owe to disruption in their normal routines, changes in their living environment or even changes in access to caregiving or medications, a University of Michigan researcher said. “The important message is… read on > read on >