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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
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On June 17, FreshRealm chicken fettuccine alfredo meals sold under the Home Chef and Marketside brands were recalled after being linked to an outbreak of Listeria. The outbreak caused 3 deaths, one fetal loss, 17 reported cases, and 16 hospitalizations. The microwavable meals were sold in the refrigerator section at Walmart and Kroger nationwide with best-by dates of 6/27/25 and earlier. The investigation is ongoing, and additional products may be affected. People should not eat the recalled meals. The meals should be thrown away or returned for a refund.
WHAT WE KNOW
The outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has been ongoing since August 2024. The same strain of Listeria was identified in routine testing of chicken alfredo meals by the FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service). The sample was collected in March 2025, and the affected lot was destroyed.
Four people out of the 17 reported cases reported eating or purchasing FreshRealm chicken alfredo.
The recalled products include 32.8-oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/27/25, 12.3 oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/26/25, and 12.5 oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/19/25.
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can contaminate food and cause illness. It thrives in cool temperatures (like a refrigerator) and rapidly multiplies when it comes into contact with food. The foods most affected include luncheon meats, raw milk, soft cheeses, smoked seafood, salads, and uncooked fruits and vegetables.
Listeria infections are especially dangerous during pregnancy, for older adults, and for anyone who is immunocompromised. Those who are pregnant and their newborns are most likely to get sick from Listeria. Often, they will only get a mild illness, but Listeria can be harmful to the unborn baby and could lead to pregnancy loss.
UNKNOWNS
The FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service) is continuing to investigate this outbreak to determine if a specific ingredient in the chicken alfredo is the source of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
The FSIS will update the recall as more information becomes available; it is possible that additional products were contaminated.
The number of cases in this outbreak is likely much higher than the reported 17 cases. This is because not everyone sees a doctor if their symptoms are mild and many cases are likely to go unreported.
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On June 17, FreshRealm chicken fettuccine alfredo meals sold under the Home Chef and Marketside brands were recalled after being linked to an outbreak of Listeria. The outbreak caused 3 deaths, one fetal loss, 17 reported cases, and 16 hospitalizations. The microwavable meals were sold in the refrigerator section at Walmart and Kroger nationwide with best-by dates of 6/27/25 and earlier. The investigation is ongoing, and additional products may be affected. People should not eat the recalled meals. The meals should be thrown away or returned for a refund.
WHAT WE KNOW
The outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has been ongoing since August 2024. The same strain of Listeria was identified in routine testing of chicken alfredo meals by the FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service). The sample was collected in March 2025, and the affected lot was destroyed.
Four people out of the 17 reported cases reported eating or purchasing FreshRealm chicken alfredo.
The recalled products include 32.8-oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/27/25, 12.3 oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/26/25, and 12.5 oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/19/25.
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can contaminate food and cause illness. It thrives in cool temperatures (like a refrigerator) and rapidly multiplies when it comes into contact with food. The foods most affected include luncheon meats, raw milk, soft cheeses, smoked seafood, salads, and uncooked fruits and vegetables.
Listeria infections are especially dangerous during pregnancy, for older adults, and for anyone who is immunocompromised. Those who are pregnant and their newborns are most likely to get sick from Listeria. Often, they will only get a mild illness, but Listeria can be harmful to the unborn baby and could lead to pregnancy loss.
UNKNOWNS
The FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service) is continuing to investigate this outbreak to determine if a specific ingredient in the chicken alfredo is the source of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
The FSIS will update the recall as more information becomes available; it is possible that additional products were contaminated.
The number of cases in this outbreak is likely much higher than the reported 17 cases. This is because not everyone sees a doctor if their symptoms are mild and many cases are likely to go unreported.
SOURCE
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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Many parts of the U.S. are experiencing higher than average humidity and extreme heat. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke are risks for everyone, even the young and healthy. Extreme heat also worsens existing conditions like heart disease and asthma. Young children and those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain prescription medications are also more sensitive to heat. During a heat wave, take extra steps to stay hydrated and cool. Stay in air-conditioned buildings and use cold, wet cloths and fans to cool down. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a mall, library, or cooling center during the hottest parts of the day. Call 2-1-1 for information on cooling centers.
WHAT WE KNOW
High heat combined with humidity makes it hard for the body to cool itself and can lead to heat stress, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and make some existing health conditions worse.
Muscle cramps and heavy sweating are some of the first signs of heat stress which can turn into heat exhaustion with symptoms that include weakness, headache, nausea, and fainting. If someone is experiencing the first signs of heat stress, it is important to immediately move to a cooler place and sip water to cool down and rehydrate.
Heat stroke is the most severe stage of a heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include a body temperature above 103 F, throbbing headache, confusion, slurred speech, dizziness, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Some health conditions that can get worse or be triggered by elevated heat include: heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses.
Local cooling centers can be found at The National Center for Healthy Housing under “Cooling Centers by State”.
A map of the current heat stress risk can be found on The National Weather Service website.
UNKNOWNS
Heat waves are becoming more frequent and lasting longer; we are still learning the full impacts of these shifts.
SOURCE
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Many parts of the U.S. are experiencing higher than average humidity and extreme heat. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke are risks for everyone, even the young and healthy. Extreme heat also worsens existing conditions like heart disease and asthma. Young children and those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain prescription medications are also more sensitive to heat. During a heat wave, take extra steps to stay hydrated and cool. Stay in air-conditioned buildings and use cold, wet cloths and fans to cool down. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a mall, library, or cooling center during the hottest parts of the day. Call 2-1-1 for information on cooling centers.
WHAT WE KNOW
High heat combined with humidity makes it hard for the body to cool itself and can lead to heat stress, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and make some existing health conditions worse.
Muscle cramps and heavy sweating are some of the first signs of heat stress which can turn into heat exhaustion with symptoms that include weakness, headache, nausea, and fainting. If someone is experiencing the first signs of heat stress, it is important to immediately move to a cooler place and sip water to cool down and rehydrate.
Heat stroke is the most severe stage of a heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include a body temperature above 103 F, throbbing headache, confusion, slurred speech, dizziness, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Some health conditions that can get worse or be triggered by elevated heat include: heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses.
Local cooling centers can be found at The National Center for Healthy Housing under “Cooling Centers by State”.
A map of the current heat stress risk can be found on The National Weather Service website.
UNKNOWNS
Heat waves are becoming more frequent and lasting longer; we are still learning the full impacts of these shifts.
SOURCE
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
SOURCE
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YOU CAN SAY THIS...
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
SOURCE
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BELIEVABILITY
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
SOURCE
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCE
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCE
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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On June 17, FreshRealm chicken fettuccine alfredo meals sold under the Home Chef and Marketside brands were recalled after being linked to an outbreak of Listeria. The outbreak caused 3 deaths, one fetal loss, 17 reported cases, and 16 hospitalizations. The microwavable meals were sold in the refrigerator section at Walmart and Kroger nationwide with best-by dates of 6/27/25 and earlier. The investigation is ongoing, and additional products may be affected. People should not eat the recalled meals. The meals should be thrown away or returned for a refund.
WHAT WE KNOW
The outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has been ongoing since August 2024. The same strain of Listeria was identified in routine testing of chicken alfredo meals by the FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service). The sample was collected in March 2025, and the affected lot was destroyed.
Four people out of the 17 reported cases reported eating or purchasing FreshRealm chicken alfredo.
The recalled products include 32.8-oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/27/25, 12.3 oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/26/25, and 12.5 oz. tray packages with best-by dates on or before 6/19/25.
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can contaminate food and cause illness. It thrives in cool temperatures (like a refrigerator) and rapidly multiplies when it comes into contact with food. The foods most affected include luncheon meats, raw milk, soft cheeses, smoked seafood, salads, and uncooked fruits and vegetables.
Listeria infections are especially dangerous during pregnancy, for older adults, and for anyone who is immunocompromised. Those who are pregnant and their newborns are most likely to get sick from Listeria. Often, they will only get a mild illness, but Listeria can be harmful to the unborn baby and could lead to pregnancy loss.
UNKNOWNS
The FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service) is continuing to investigate this outbreak to determine if a specific ingredient in the chicken alfredo is the source of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
The FSIS will update the recall as more information becomes available; it is possible that additional products were contaminated.
The number of cases in this outbreak is likely much higher than the reported 17 cases. This is because not everyone sees a doctor if their symptoms are mild and many cases are likely to go unreported.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
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FROM
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Many parts of the U.S. are experiencing higher than average humidity and extreme heat. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke are risks for everyone, even the young and healthy. Extreme heat also worsens existing conditions like heart disease and asthma. Young children and those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking certain prescription medications are also more sensitive to heat. During a heat wave, take extra steps to stay hydrated and cool. Stay in air-conditioned buildings and use cold, wet cloths and fans to cool down. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a mall, library, or cooling center during the hottest parts of the day. Call 2-1-1 for information on cooling centers.
WHAT WE KNOW
High heat combined with humidity makes it hard for the body to cool itself and can lead to heat stress, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and make some existing health conditions worse.
Muscle cramps and heavy sweating are some of the first signs of heat stress which can turn into heat exhaustion with symptoms that include weakness, headache, nausea, and fainting. If someone is experiencing the first signs of heat stress, it is important to immediately move to a cooler place and sip water to cool down and rehydrate.
Heat stroke is the most severe stage of a heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include a body temperature above 103 F, throbbing headache, confusion, slurred speech, dizziness, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
Some health conditions that can get worse or be triggered by elevated heat include: heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses.
Local cooling centers can be found at The National Center for Healthy Housing under “Cooling Centers by State”.
A map of the current heat stress risk can be found on The National Weather Service website.
UNKNOWNS
Heat waves are becoming more frequent and lasting longer; we are still learning the full impacts of these shifts.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
HEARD IT FROM
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FROM
YOU CAN SAY THIS...
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
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