Health

Despite progress, the Black community still faces a HIV crisis, with racism and lack of awareness of prevention and care contributing to the issue, according to Rev. Dr. Renee McCoy, an HIV and AIDS program manager for the African Americans Reach and Teach Health Ministry at the University of Washington.

As the holiday season approaches, public health officials are advising individuals to ensure they are vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, RSV, pneumococcal disease, Tdap, MMR & Varicella, and shingles. These vaccinations are crucial for those planning to travel or gather with family, aiming to mitigate the spread of these communicable diseases.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's annual report on abortion trends, typically released in late November, has been postponed until spring amid internal disruptions. The US Department of Health and Human Services attributes the delay to former CDC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Debra Houry and significant layoffs at HHS, impacting the agency's capacity to analyze state-submitted data.

The release of the "Wicked: For Good" film has ignited a nationwide discourse on weight loss, eating disorders, and societal pressures regarding thinness, as the film's lead actresses receive attention for their slender physiques, potentially affecting individuals dealing with eating disorders.

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is increasingly prevalent in the United States, leading to significant gastrointestinal distress and frequent emergency room visits, with patients often finding temporary relief through hot showers or baths.

The Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative (MOBI) is organizing an event in New York City to commemorate the 37th annual World AIDS Day, under the theme "Centering Black & Marginalized Voices Together." This event aims to highlight the healthcare disparities and treatment access issues contributing to the concerning HIV prognosis among Black gay men in the United States.

Tamika Smith, a 40-year-old Black woman, has declined to register as an organ donor, citing her personal experiences of medical gaslighting and mistreatment. This decision reflects a broader sentiment within the Black community, rooted in a historical context of medical racism and the systemic mistreatment of Black individuals.

King County is offering free dental care to low-income families with children on Medicaid through its Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) program, and adults who are ineligible for Apple Health can receive care through the King County Adult Dental Program (KCADP).

Sean Paul and Angelie Spencer are spearheading recovery efforts in Jamaica following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. The duo is actively providing essential resources such as food, shelter, and solar power to those in need. They are also rallying support for donations through Food for the Poor, Jamaica, and World Central Kitchen, emphasizing the importance of community aid in rebuilding the nation.

The expansion of work requirements under the Republican-backed legislation will lead to a reduction of 2.4 million Americans receiving food stamp benefits, with the initial impact expected in March.