Current science suggests this claim is false 
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Fluoride occurs naturally in most U.S. water sources but at levels too low to strengthen teeth. Since 1945, many U.S. communities have added a small amount of fluoride to water (enough to reach 0.7 mg/L) to help prevent cavities. Current research has not found adverse health effects at these levels. If concentrations reach 2.0 mg/L -- three times higher than in communities with fluoridated water – it can cause dental fluorosis in children or white spotting on teeth. Researchers are still learning about other health effects from exposure at these elevated levels.
WHAT WE KNOW
High concentrations of fluoride can happen in areas where high levels of fluorine naturally occur In the U.S., this affects less than 1% of the population. Research studies on the dangers of fluoride in drinking water are mostly from countries with these high concentrations of fluorine in their soil, and levels of fluoride in water above 2.0 mg/L. These countries do not add fluoride to water, it is there because of high levels in the soil and bedrock.
Fluoridated water has reduced the number of cavities among children, adolescents, and adults, The greatest decrease in cavities was found in the 1900s, before fluoride was added to toothpaste. Still, the effectiveness of fluoride toothpaste in preventing cavities depends on how often toothpaste is used.
The CDC recommends a fluoride level of 0.7 mg/L as an optimal level to help prevent cavities. There is no federal regulation stating that communities must add fluoride to water, this choice happens at a state or municipality level.
If you get water from a town water supply, you can check if your water is fluoridated on the CDC website or your county’s water information page.
If your water is not fluoridated, parents of children can talk to their child’s dentist or pediatrician to see if fluoride supplements are needed.
If fluoride levels in water rise above 2.0 mg/L municipalities are required to alert their community members. This is because these levels increase the risk of dental fluorosis in children, which is a mild condition that causes white spots or pitting on teeth. This can also happen if a child consistently swallows toothpaste.
If you have well water and are concerned about the level of fluoride, you can test your water to determine the concentration. If the levels are above 2mg/L, you can get a filter to help remove fluoride, and if it is above 4 mg/L you should contact your local health department for next steps.
UNKNOWNS
Some studies have linked high fluoride concentrations to lower IQ in children, more information on these studies is available through the National Toxicology Program.
More research is needed on the long-term health effects of higher concentrations of fluoride in water.
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Fluoride occurs naturally in most U.S. water sources but at levels too low to strengthen teeth. Since 1945, many U.S. communities have added a small amount of fluoride to water (enough to reach 0.7 mg/L) to help prevent cavities. Current research has not found adverse health effects at these levels. If concentrations reach 2.0 mg/L -- three times higher than in communities with fluoridated water – it can cause dental fluorosis in children or white spotting on teeth. Researchers are still learning about other health effects from exposure at these elevated levels.
WHAT WE KNOW
High concentrations of fluoride can happen in areas where high levels of fluorine naturally occur In the U.S., this affects less than 1% of the population. Research studies on the dangers of fluoride in drinking water are mostly from countries with these high concentrations of fluorine in their soil, and levels of fluoride in water above 2.0 mg/L. These countries do not add fluoride to water, it is there because of high levels in the soil and bedrock.
Fluoridated water has reduced the number of cavities among children, adolescents, and adults, The greatest decrease in cavities was found in the 1900s, before fluoride was added to toothpaste. Still, the effectiveness of fluoride toothpaste in preventing cavities depends on how often toothpaste is used.
The CDC recommends a fluoride level of 0.7 mg/L as an optimal level to help prevent cavities. There is no federal regulation stating that communities must add fluoride to water, this choice happens at a state or municipality level.
If you get water from a town water supply, you can check if your water is fluoridated on the CDC website or your county’s water information page.
If your water is not fluoridated, parents of children can talk to their child’s dentist or pediatrician to see if fluoride supplements are needed.
If fluoride levels in water rise above 2.0 mg/L municipalities are required to alert their community members. This is because these levels increase the risk of dental fluorosis in children, which is a mild condition that causes white spots or pitting on teeth. This can also happen if a child consistently swallows toothpaste.
If you have well water and are concerned about the level of fluoride, you can test your water to determine the concentration. If the levels are above 2mg/L, you can get a filter to help remove fluoride, and if it is above 4 mg/L you should contact your local health department for next steps.
UNKNOWNS
Some studies have linked high fluoride concentrations to lower IQ in children, more information on these studies is available through the National Toxicology Program.
More research is needed on the long-term health effects of higher concentrations of fluoride in water.
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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On October 29th, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed that one pig on a backyard farm in Oregon tested positive for bird flu. The pig was one of five pigs that shared housing, water, and equipment with chickens that were positive for the virus a week earlier. The small farm is not commercial, and this case posed no risk to the country’s food supply, and risk to the public remains low.
WHAT WE KNOW
This marks the first reported case of an H5 bird flu infection in a pig in the United States. The farm is currently quarantined and additional animals on the farm are being monitored, including sheep and goats.
The five pigs exposed to bird flu were euthanized for further testing, one pig was positive, two were negative, and two are awaiting results.
Pigs can get more than one flu virus at the same time, raising concerns that a virus that is able to infect humans and the bird flu virus could both infect a pig simultaneously and combine to become more transferrable to people. A single case of a pig on a non-commercial farm is not enough to raise significant concerns or raise the public risk level.
In other countries in the past, a different strain of bird flu has jumped onto pigs without being transmitted to people.
UNKNOWNS
We are still waiting for test results from two of the pigs, as well as a more thorough diagnostic examination.
Public Health officials continue to monitor bird flu in poultry and dairy farms, in addition to testing other animals that were exposed.
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On October 29th, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed that one pig on a backyard farm in Oregon tested positive for bird flu. The pig was one of five pigs that shared housing, water, and equipment with chickens that were positive for the virus a week earlier. The small farm is not commercial, and this case posed no risk to the country’s food supply, and risk to the public remains low.
WHAT WE KNOW
This marks the first reported case of an H5 bird flu infection in a pig in the United States. The farm is currently quarantined and additional animals on the farm are being monitored, including sheep and goats.
The five pigs exposed to bird flu were euthanized for further testing, one pig was positive, two were negative, and two are awaiting results.
Pigs can get more than one flu virus at the same time, raising concerns that a virus that is able to infect humans and the bird flu virus could both infect a pig simultaneously and combine to become more transferrable to people. A single case of a pig on a non-commercial farm is not enough to raise significant concerns or raise the public risk level.
In other countries in the past, a different strain of bird flu has jumped onto pigs without being transmitted to people.
UNKNOWNS
We are still waiting for test results from two of the pigs, as well as a more thorough diagnostic examination.
Public Health officials continue to monitor bird flu in poultry and dairy farms, in addition to testing other animals that were exposed.
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Latest info suggests this claim is true.
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A new American Cancer Society report showed the rate of new breast cancer cases increased by 1% each year from 2012-2021. A larger increase was observed among women younger than 50 years than those 50 or older (1.4% vs 0.7) and Asian American/Pacific Islander women in both age groups (2.7% and 2.5%). Women aged 40 to 74 at average risk for breast cancer are recommended to get a mammogram every 2 years.
WHAT WE KNOW
The increased trends observed in recent years may be due to post-pandemic “catch-up” mammography and diagnoses in 2021. The steeper increases among Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) women may be influenced by variations in risk factors between immigrant and U.S.-born Asian women, with some studies suggesting different risk profiles for each group. In contrast, breast cancer death rates declined by 44% from 1989 to 2022, resulting in 517,900 fewer deaths during this period.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women in the US. Breast cancer typically occurs in middle-aged or older women, with the median age at time of breast cancer diagnosis being 62 overall but younger for Hispanic (57 years), AAPI (57 years), Black (60 years), and AIAN (60 years) women compared to White women (64 years).
A painless lump in the breast or underarm lymph nodes is the most common sign of breast cancer. Other signs and symptoms include breast pain or heaviness; dimpling, swelling, thickening or redness; and nipple changes or discharge.
Lifestyle-related breast cancer risk factors include alcohol consumption, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, not having children, not breastfeeding, taking birth control or menopausal hormone therapy, and breast implants. Some unchangeable risk factors for breast cancer include being born female, aging, inheriting certain gene changes, dense breasts, family history of breast cancer, and personal history of breast cancer.
Breast cancer screenings cannot prevent breast cancer, instead they help find breast cancer at its early stages when it is easier to treat. Along with routine screenings, monthly breast self-exams can also help in noticing changes in breasts or detect when something feels different.
Mammograms are the most common type of breast cancer screening, used for women above 40 with or without symptoms. For symptomatic women younger than 40, a breast ultrasound test is recommended. Breast ultrasounds are especially useful for women with dense breast tissue. Both breast MRI and a yearly mammogram are recommended for certain women at high risk of breast cancer.
Treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy. Choice of treatment option is dependent on the type of cancer and the extent of its spread. Consultations with cancer doctors are recommended when deciding on treatment options available according to type and stage of cancer, as well as risks/benefits and side effects.
UNKNOWNS
Further research is needed to identify why women who are younger than 50 and are Asian American/Pacific Islander experience increased rates of new breast cancer cases.
Breast cancer researchers are still learning how certain risk factors play a role in breast cancer development.
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A new American Cancer Society report showed the rate of new breast cancer cases increased by 1% each year from 2012-2021. A larger increase was observed among women younger than 50 years than those 50 or older (1.4% vs 0.7) and Asian American/Pacific Islander women in both age groups (2.7% and 2.5%). Women aged 40 to 74 at average risk for breast cancer are recommended to get a mammogram every 2 years.
WHAT WE KNOW
The increased trends observed in recent years may be due to post-pandemic “catch-up” mammography and diagnoses in 2021. The steeper increases among Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) women may be influenced by variations in risk factors between immigrant and U.S.-born Asian women, with some studies suggesting different risk profiles for each group. In contrast, breast cancer death rates declined by 44% from 1989 to 2022, resulting in 517,900 fewer deaths during this period.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women in the US. Breast cancer typically occurs in middle-aged or older women, with the median age at time of breast cancer diagnosis being 62 overall but younger for Hispanic (57 years), AAPI (57 years), Black (60 years), and AIAN (60 years) women compared to White women (64 years).
A painless lump in the breast or underarm lymph nodes is the most common sign of breast cancer. Other signs and symptoms include breast pain or heaviness; dimpling, swelling, thickening or redness; and nipple changes or discharge.
Lifestyle-related breast cancer risk factors include alcohol consumption, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, not having children, not breastfeeding, taking birth control or menopausal hormone therapy, and breast implants. Some unchangeable risk factors for breast cancer include being born female, aging, inheriting certain gene changes, dense breasts, family history of breast cancer, and personal history of breast cancer.
Breast cancer screenings cannot prevent breast cancer, instead they help find breast cancer at its early stages when it is easier to treat. Along with routine screenings, monthly breast self-exams can also help in noticing changes in breasts or detect when something feels different.
Mammograms are the most common type of breast cancer screening, used for women above 40 with or without symptoms. For symptomatic women younger than 40, a breast ultrasound test is recommended. Breast ultrasounds are especially useful for women with dense breast tissue. Both breast MRI and a yearly mammogram are recommended for certain women at high risk of breast cancer.
Treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy. Choice of treatment option is dependent on the type of cancer and the extent of its spread. Consultations with cancer doctors are recommended when deciding on treatment options available according to type and stage of cancer, as well as risks/benefits and side effects.
UNKNOWNS
Further research is needed to identify why women who are younger than 50 and are Asian American/Pacific Islander experience increased rates of new breast cancer cases.
Breast cancer researchers are still learning how certain risk factors play a role in breast cancer development.
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Current science suggests this claim is true
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E. coli food poisoning from McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has sickened 75 people across 13 states, including Nebraska. There's been one death and 22 hospitalizations, including a child hospitalized with severe kidney complications. Nebraska had 11 cases with at least 8 of them in Douglas and Sarpy Counties and 3 of the hospitalized individuals were from the metro area. Infections occurred between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11. If you experience diarrhea or vomiting lasting over 2 days, contact your doctor immediately.
WHAT WE KNOW
A multi-state E. coli outbreak has been linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers, with 90 cases reported across 13 states (CO, NE, WI, IA, KS, MI, MO, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY). The outbreak has resulted in 27 hospitalizations and 1 death as of October 30th.
While the investigation is ongoing, the FDA inquiry has identified slivered onions as a likely contamination source. McDonald’s has temporarily halted the use of this ingredient in impacted states as a preventive measure and has announced plans to resume selling Quarter Pounders in all restaurants once it is safe to do so.
Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which can develop 3-4 days after exposure.
Precautions against E. coli infections include washing hands before food preparation, cooking meat to safe temperatures, using separate cutting boards for raw meat, storing and refrigerating food properly, and avoiding food preparation if experiencing symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting.
Because the onions have also been recalled and are no longer available for sale to food service businesses, the CDC believes the current risk to the public is low.
UNKNOWNS
Additional cases may exist that have not yet been identified, as epidemiological investigations continue. The CDC urges individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention if they suspect exposure.
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E. coli food poisoning from McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has sickened 75 people across 13 states, including Nebraska. There's been one death and 22 hospitalizations, including a child hospitalized with severe kidney complications. Nebraska had 11 cases with at least 8 of them in Douglas and Sarpy Counties and 3 of the hospitalized individuals were from the metro area. Infections occurred between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11. If you experience diarrhea or vomiting lasting over 2 days, contact your doctor immediately.
WHAT WE KNOW
A multi-state E. coli outbreak has been linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers, with 90 cases reported across 13 states (CO, NE, WI, IA, KS, MI, MO, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY). The outbreak has resulted in 27 hospitalizations and 1 death as of October 30th.
While the investigation is ongoing, the FDA inquiry has identified slivered onions as a likely contamination source. McDonald’s has temporarily halted the use of this ingredient in impacted states as a preventive measure and has announced plans to resume selling Quarter Pounders in all restaurants once it is safe to do so.
Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which can develop 3-4 days after exposure.
Precautions against E. coli infections include washing hands before food preparation, cooking meat to safe temperatures, using separate cutting boards for raw meat, storing and refrigerating food properly, and avoiding food preparation if experiencing symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting.
Because the onions have also been recalled and are no longer available for sale to food service businesses, the CDC believes the current risk to the public is low.
UNKNOWNS
Additional cases may exist that have not yet been identified, as epidemiological investigations continue. The CDC urges individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention if they suspect exposure.
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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On October 7th, the FDA approved the sale of take-home combo tests that can detect COVID and the flu in about 15 minutes. The combo tests work the same way as nasal swab self-COVID tests, but they detect both COVID and flu strains A and B. The combo tests are available to buy at most pharmacies. Like COVID-only tests, the FDA recommends two tests 48 hours apart if you get a negative result.
WHAT WE KNOW
In considering which test to use, if you have a recent known COVID exposure and start having symptoms, a COVID-only test is likely enough. Otherwise, it can be helpful to use a combo test if you are able to afford the extra cost.
A combo flu and COVID test generally cost between $40-$50 for two tests. If you have a Health Savings Account, you may be able to use it to cover this cost, and you can reach out to your health insurance provider to see if they will reimburse you.
It is important to read all directions when taking the combo test even if you have taken many COVID tests before. The combo flu test is mostly similar but may include a battery powered device that spins the sample to separate the viral particles. Some versions of the combo test also take 30 minutes to show results.
For people who may be at higher risk of complications from COVID or the flu, it can be helpful to know which virus you have early on as anti-viral treatments for both are more effective when started early. People who are considered at risk include pregnant people, people with asthma and chronic lung disease, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease.
The new combo COVID test is the first take-home test that detects both COVID and flu strains A and B. Like self-COVID tests, people aged 14 and older can take and test their own sample, and those 2 years to 13 years of age should have the sample taken and tested by an adult.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID or the flu should seek follow up care with their healthcare provider and avoid spreading the virus to others. People who test negative but still experience symptoms should also follow up with their healthcare provider.
UNKNOWNS
As technology improves, instructions or methods for this test may change. It is important to always read the directions on a test before use.
SOURCE
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On October 7th, the FDA approved the sale of take-home combo tests that can detect COVID and the flu in about 15 minutes. The combo tests work the same way as nasal swab self-COVID tests, but they detect both COVID and flu strains A and B. The combo tests are available to buy at most pharmacies. Like COVID-only tests, the FDA recommends two tests 48 hours apart if you get a negative result.
WHAT WE KNOW
In considering which test to use, if you have a recent known COVID exposure and start having symptoms, a COVID-only test is likely enough. Otherwise, it can be helpful to use a combo test if you are able to afford the extra cost.
A combo flu and COVID test generally cost between $40-$50 for two tests. If you have a Health Savings Account, you may be able to use it to cover this cost, and you can reach out to your health insurance provider to see if they will reimburse you.
It is important to read all directions when taking the combo test even if you have taken many COVID tests before. The combo flu test is mostly similar but may include a battery powered device that spins the sample to separate the viral particles. Some versions of the combo test also take 30 minutes to show results.
For people who may be at higher risk of complications from COVID or the flu, it can be helpful to know which virus you have early on as anti-viral treatments for both are more effective when started early. People who are considered at risk include pregnant people, people with asthma and chronic lung disease, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease.
The new combo COVID test is the first take-home test that detects both COVID and flu strains A and B. Like self-COVID tests, people aged 14 and older can take and test their own sample, and those 2 years to 13 years of age should have the sample taken and tested by an adult.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID or the flu should seek follow up care with their healthcare provider and avoid spreading the virus to others. People who test negative but still experience symptoms should also follow up with their healthcare provider.
UNKNOWNS
As technology improves, instructions or methods for this test may change. It is important to always read the directions on a test before use.
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Fluoride occurs naturally in most U.S. water sources but at levels too low to strengthen teeth. Since 1945, many U.S. communities have added a small amount of fluoride to water (enough to reach 0.7 mg/L) to help prevent cavities. Current research has not found adverse health effects at these levels. If concentrations reach 2.0 mg/L -- three times higher than in communities with fluoridated water – it can cause dental fluorosis in children or white spotting on teeth. Researchers are still learning about other health effects from exposure at these elevated levels.
WHAT WE KNOW
High concentrations of fluoride can happen in areas where high levels of fluorine naturally occur In the U.S., this affects less than 1% of the population. Research studies on the dangers of fluoride in drinking water are mostly from countries with these high concentrations of fluorine in their soil, and levels of fluoride in water above 2.0 mg/L. These countries do not add fluoride to water, it is there because of high levels in the soil and bedrock.
Fluoridated water has reduced the number of cavities among children, adolescents, and adults, The greatest decrease in cavities was found in the 1900s, before fluoride was added to toothpaste. Still, the effectiveness of fluoride toothpaste in preventing cavities depends on how often toothpaste is used.
The CDC recommends a fluoride level of 0.7 mg/L as an optimal level to help prevent cavities. There is no federal regulation stating that communities must add fluoride to water, this choice happens at a state or municipality level.
If you get water from a town water supply, you can check if your water is fluoridated on the CDC website or your county’s water information page.
If your water is not fluoridated, parents of children can talk to their child’s dentist or pediatrician to see if fluoride supplements are needed.
If fluoride levels in water rise above 2.0 mg/L municipalities are required to alert their community members. This is because these levels increase the risk of dental fluorosis in children, which is a mild condition that causes white spots or pitting on teeth. This can also happen if a child consistently swallows toothpaste.
If you have well water and are concerned about the level of fluoride, you can test your water to determine the concentration. If the levels are above 2mg/L, you can get a filter to help remove fluoride, and if it is above 4 mg/L you should contact your local health department for next steps.
UNKNOWNS
Some studies have linked high fluoride concentrations to lower IQ in children, more information on these studies is available through the National Toxicology Program.
More research is needed on the long-term health effects of higher concentrations of fluoride in water.
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heard this concern.
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On October 29th, the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed that one pig on a backyard farm in Oregon tested positive for bird flu. The pig was one of five pigs that shared housing, water, and equipment with chickens that were positive for the virus a week earlier. The small farm is not commercial, and this case posed no risk to the country’s food supply, and risk to the public remains low.
WHAT WE KNOW
This marks the first reported case of an H5 bird flu infection in a pig in the United States. The farm is currently quarantined and additional animals on the farm are being monitored, including sheep and goats.
The five pigs exposed to bird flu were euthanized for further testing, one pig was positive, two were negative, and two are awaiting results.
Pigs can get more than one flu virus at the same time, raising concerns that a virus that is able to infect humans and the bird flu virus could both infect a pig simultaneously and combine to become more transferrable to people. A single case of a pig on a non-commercial farm is not enough to raise significant concerns or raise the public risk level.
In other countries in the past, a different strain of bird flu has jumped onto pigs without being transmitted to people.
UNKNOWNS
We are still waiting for test results from two of the pigs, as well as a more thorough diagnostic examination.
Public Health officials continue to monitor bird flu in poultry and dairy farms, in addition to testing other animals that were exposed.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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A new American Cancer Society report showed the rate of new breast cancer cases increased by 1% each year from 2012-2021. A larger increase was observed among women younger than 50 years than those 50 or older (1.4% vs 0.7) and Asian American/Pacific Islander women in both age groups (2.7% and 2.5%). Women aged 40 to 74 at average risk for breast cancer are recommended to get a mammogram every 2 years.
WHAT WE KNOW
The increased trends observed in recent years may be due to post-pandemic “catch-up” mammography and diagnoses in 2021. The steeper increases among Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) women may be influenced by variations in risk factors between immigrant and U.S.-born Asian women, with some studies suggesting different risk profiles for each group. In contrast, breast cancer death rates declined by 44% from 1989 to 2022, resulting in 517,900 fewer deaths during this period.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women in the US. Breast cancer typically occurs in middle-aged or older women, with the median age at time of breast cancer diagnosis being 62 overall but younger for Hispanic (57 years), AAPI (57 years), Black (60 years), and AIAN (60 years) women compared to White women (64 years).
A painless lump in the breast or underarm lymph nodes is the most common sign of breast cancer. Other signs and symptoms include breast pain or heaviness; dimpling, swelling, thickening or redness; and nipple changes or discharge.
Lifestyle-related breast cancer risk factors include alcohol consumption, being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, not having children, not breastfeeding, taking birth control or menopausal hormone therapy, and breast implants. Some unchangeable risk factors for breast cancer include being born female, aging, inheriting certain gene changes, dense breasts, family history of breast cancer, and personal history of breast cancer.
Breast cancer screenings cannot prevent breast cancer, instead they help find breast cancer at its early stages when it is easier to treat. Along with routine screenings, monthly breast self-exams can also help in noticing changes in breasts or detect when something feels different.
Mammograms are the most common type of breast cancer screening, used for women above 40 with or without symptoms. For symptomatic women younger than 40, a breast ultrasound test is recommended. Breast ultrasounds are especially useful for women with dense breast tissue. Both breast MRI and a yearly mammogram are recommended for certain women at high risk of breast cancer.
Treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy. Choice of treatment option is dependent on the type of cancer and the extent of its spread. Consultations with cancer doctors are recommended when deciding on treatment options available according to type and stage of cancer, as well as risks/benefits and side effects.
UNKNOWNS
Further research is needed to identify why women who are younger than 50 and are Asian American/Pacific Islander experience increased rates of new breast cancer cases.
Breast cancer researchers are still learning how certain risk factors play a role in breast cancer development.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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E. coli food poisoning from McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has sickened 75 people across 13 states, including Nebraska. There's been one death and 22 hospitalizations, including a child hospitalized with severe kidney complications. Nebraska had 11 cases with at least 8 of them in Douglas and Sarpy Counties and 3 of the hospitalized individuals were from the metro area. Infections occurred between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11. If you experience diarrhea or vomiting lasting over 2 days, contact your doctor immediately.
WHAT WE KNOW
A multi-state E. coli outbreak has been linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers, with 90 cases reported across 13 states (CO, NE, WI, IA, KS, MI, MO, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY). The outbreak has resulted in 27 hospitalizations and 1 death as of October 30th.
While the investigation is ongoing, the FDA inquiry has identified slivered onions as a likely contamination source. McDonald’s has temporarily halted the use of this ingredient in impacted states as a preventive measure and has announced plans to resume selling Quarter Pounders in all restaurants once it is safe to do so.
Symptoms of E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which can develop 3-4 days after exposure.
Precautions against E. coli infections include washing hands before food preparation, cooking meat to safe temperatures, using separate cutting boards for raw meat, storing and refrigerating food properly, and avoiding food preparation if experiencing symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting.
Because the onions have also been recalled and are no longer available for sale to food service businesses, the CDC believes the current risk to the public is low.
UNKNOWNS
Additional cases may exist that have not yet been identified, as epidemiological investigations continue. The CDC urges individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention if they suspect exposure.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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On October 7th, the FDA approved the sale of take-home combo tests that can detect COVID and the flu in about 15 minutes. The combo tests work the same way as nasal swab self-COVID tests, but they detect both COVID and flu strains A and B. The combo tests are available to buy at most pharmacies. Like COVID-only tests, the FDA recommends two tests 48 hours apart if you get a negative result.
WHAT WE KNOW
In considering which test to use, if you have a recent known COVID exposure and start having symptoms, a COVID-only test is likely enough. Otherwise, it can be helpful to use a combo test if you are able to afford the extra cost.
A combo flu and COVID test generally cost between $40-$50 for two tests. If you have a Health Savings Account, you may be able to use it to cover this cost, and you can reach out to your health insurance provider to see if they will reimburse you.
It is important to read all directions when taking the combo test even if you have taken many COVID tests before. The combo flu test is mostly similar but may include a battery powered device that spins the sample to separate the viral particles. Some versions of the combo test also take 30 minutes to show results.
For people who may be at higher risk of complications from COVID or the flu, it can be helpful to know which virus you have early on as anti-viral treatments for both are more effective when started early. People who are considered at risk include pregnant people, people with asthma and chronic lung disease, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease.
The new combo COVID test is the first take-home test that detects both COVID and flu strains A and B. Like self-COVID tests, people aged 14 and older can take and test their own sample, and those 2 years to 13 years of age should have the sample taken and tested by an adult.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID or the flu should seek follow up care with their healthcare provider and avoid spreading the virus to others. People who test negative but still experience symptoms should also follow up with their healthcare provider.
UNKNOWNS
As technology improves, instructions or methods for this test may change. It is important to always read the directions on a test before use.
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heard this concern.
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