Skim Health: 4.13.17 April 13, 2017

Top health articles of interest circulating in the media this week, 4.13.17

  • A Washington Post article examines why some families are unable to save money, as a book being released this month,“The Financial Diaries: How American Families Cope in a World of Uncertainty,” by Jonathan Morduch and Rachel Schneider, investigates why low and middle income Americans often live hand to mouth despite attempts at financial planning. “For many households, it wasn’t a pattern of reckless spending or a lack of financial knowledge that was holding them back. In fact, they were saving regularly. The problem, however, stemmed from inconsistent paychecks (not necessarily from gig economy jobs) and unpredictable expenses,” according to the authors who followed the finances of 235 families for a year.
  • Researchers say that diabetes may be far deadlier than reported, with nearly four times as many diabetes related deaths occurring than indicated on death certificates – accounting for 12% of deaths in the US. Findings were based on two wide-scale national surveys looking at A1C levels in patients with diabetics, as well as death rates of those surveyed to have diabetes. “These findings point to an urgent need for strategies to prevent diabetes in the general population.”
  • Americans are reporting higher stress levels following the 2016 election, as political polarization and scandal plague headlines on a daily basis – and studies suggest both democrats and republicans are feeling the sting of anxiety. Based on a poll of more than 3,500 people, the study also found that “86 percent of adults constantly or often check their email, texts and social media accounts, and that those who are constant checkers are more likely to experience stress.”
  • Parents weary of vaccinations may be more likely to provide the preventative measures for their children once thoughtful information is provided, rather than if they are made to feel shame, according to recent studies. Following a three-year vaccine promotion in two different communities, “…the number of parents who described themselves as ‘vaccine hesitant’ fell over the three-year period from 23% to 14%.” The trial program consisted of promoting positive vaccine messaging via other parents on the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.
  • New data released by the CDC suggests that more than 1 in 5 people will carry a high risk strain of HPV (Human papillomavirus) in their lifetime, and that more than 2 in 5 will test positive for a strand of genital HPV, with men being slightly more at risk than women. While condom use cannot prevent the spread of HPV, it may help lower the chances. Vaccinations against high risk strands are encouraged in young people.

Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic provides medical care to eligible patients, just like any family practitioner or internist – but it is free. We serve uninsured adults living at or below 200 % of the Federal poverty level who live or work on Johns, Wadmalaw or James Islands. You can follow us on Facebook, TwitterInstagram and YouTube.

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