Exposure to fires and smoke can increase rates of anxiety and depression. June 8, 2023, 5:57 PM ET 5 minute read Smoke from the record-breaking Canadian wildfires continues to blanket much of the Northeast and impact air quality. Plumes of smoke composed of fine particles and toxic gases can negatively impact our physical health, causing damage to the lungs and heart and aggravating underlying conditions, such as asthma. However, experts have said that thick fog and foggy conditions, such as those seen in areas like New York City, can also…
Read MoreTag: health
Children’s mental health becomes a ‘public health emergency’
MEMPHIS, Tenn. The mental health crisis among children has gotten so bad that local medical experts are sounding the alarm. They call it a health emergency. Over the past decade, mental health problems in children have steadily increased. Then the pandemic struck, ushering in a new set of challenges such as social isolation, devastating losses, and sudden family financial hardship. The CDC reported that 55 percent of children experienced emotional abuse from parents or caregivers during the pandemic. 11% experienced physical abuse. Schools, normally there to protect children and connect…
Read MoreAbortion bans alienate doctors and close clinics, putting primary health care at risk
The rush in conservative states to ban abortion after the overturn of Roe versus Wade it’s translating into a surprising consequence that abortion opponents may not have considered: fewer medical services available to all women living in those states. Doctors are proving, through their words and actions, that they are reluctant to practice in places where making the best decision for a patient could result in huge fines or even a prison sentence. And when clinics that provide abortions close their doors, they also close all other services they offer,…
Read MoreCT insurers are calling for health insurance rate hikes on 2024 plans
Insurers selling policies in and out of the Connecticuts Affordable Care Act Exchange are asking for an average 12.4% increase on individual health plans in 2024, lower overall than last year but still higher than last year’s. previous years. On small group policies, insurers have asked for an average rate hike of 14.8%, the same as in 2022. The state insurance department released the proposed hikes on Friday. Last year, the companies called for an average 20.4 percent hike on individual health plans, a move one health care advocate called…
Read MoreSpringfield VA helps veterans expand health care for those exposed to toxins
Ashley shook and Alanna Flood 11 hours ago SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Congressman Richard Neal was at the Springfield VA clinic on Friday to highlight passage of the PACT Act. Veterans Affairs Announces Expedited Process for PACT Act Veterans Cancer Claims The PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden in August 2022, is intended to help veterans cope with the health complications they are struggling with from exposure to toxins, such as Agent Orange and chemical pits. Neal told 22News: This is groundbreaking legislation. not only will he be dealing…
Read More