Federal purge guts infant death prevention campaign, alarming doctors
A decades-long campaign to prevent infants from dying in their sleep has become a casualty of the Trump administration's federal workforce cuts, and doctors fear it could contribute to more infant deaths at a time when mortalities have already been rising.
The office within the National Institutes of Health that led the Safe to Sleep campaign, a public information effort to prevent sudden unexpected infant death, was shut down on April 1, according to two former NIH officials and two program partners who spoke with The Washington Post.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CNET
21 minutes ago
- CNET
Wondering Where to Place Your Humidifier? These Tips Will Help
A humidifier may not seem like much. They're not very expensive and all they do is add moisture to the air. However, if you've found yourself with chapped lips, dry skin, sinus congestion or suffering from allergies, this small purchase can make a world of difference. This home appliance will keep your home comfortable during cold, dry months. Plus, if you're prone to spring allergies, that's another reason to invest in a humidifier for your home. With all that said, to take full advantage of its abilities, you need to place a humidifier in the right spot. And we're here to help you figure out the best placement for your humidifier to help you add some moisture back into the air and reap all of the rewards. (To be clear, I'm talking about portable humidifiers that you can move from room to room, not whole-home units.) If you want to figure out which rooms in your home have the driest air and could use a humidifier, you can buy a cheap hygrometer , a small device that measures humidity in the air. And if you're in the market for a humidifier, you can check out our humidifier buying guide and our advice on how to figure out which size humidifier is best for your space. Never put a humidifier in these 6 spots Before we get into where you should be putting your humidifier, here are six places that should be avoided. While there are some caveats here depending on if you've purchased a cool mist humidifier or a warm mist one, the advice generally holds true. 1. On the floor or carpet There are a few reasons to avoid placing your humidifier directly on flooring or your rug or carpet. For one, cool mist humidifiers need to be at least a couple feet off the ground so that the mist can more easily mix with the air. If it doesn't get the chance to properly disperse into the air, it will fall and land on the floor, leaving it wet. And if it's on a carpet, that can lead to mold. However, you also don't want to place the humidifier so high up that the mist goes directly up into the ceiling either. If you do have to place your humidifier closer to the floor, consider putting down a plastic tray or a towel to catch any moisture that falls. 2. Close to decor or wooden furniture If you're putting your humidifier on, say, a nightstand or dresser, make sure that there isn't a piece of art or photos hanging on the wall right behind it, as the mist could reach and damage it. Also, if there's wooden furniture nearby, keep the humidifier away from it so the wood doesn't warp, or put down a protective tray, mat or towel. 3. Near electrical sockets or wires This one shouldn't be a surprise: Water and electricity can create a dangerous situation. 4. Close to your tech products Similar to getting too close to anything electrical, you don't want your humidifier to be putting out mist that falls directly on your phone, computer, tablet or TV that would be harmed by water damage. 5. Directly above a heating vent or radiator Depending on your humidifier model, putting it right next to a source of heat can potentially make it overcompensate, creating more mist than the room actually needs. 6. Within reach of small children or pets This will likely already be obvious to parents of children or pets, but you don't want your humidifier to be located anywhere that small hands can grab or paws can knock off -- particularly if it's a warm mist one with hot water inside. Cool mist humidifiers are the safer choice, especially for children's rooms. Putting your humidifier on the hardwood floor and in direct reach of a mischievous pet are two things to avoid. Getty/petrenkod The best places to put your humidifier Now that you know all the places to avoid, here are the spots you should put your humidifier, whether it's in a bedroom or your living room. Best place to put a humidifier in your bedroom: A few feet from your bed To keep the air from getting too dry at night and help aid with congestion, dry skin, allergies and more, keep your humidifier a few feet from your bed. (If it's a warm mist humidifier, you definitely want to be careful of it being too close where you could potentially knock over the hot water.) That way, it has room to disperse the mist into the air while still being close enough for you to benefit from it. The humidifier should be placed on a flat, dry area, like a nightstand, dresser, desk or table. Best place to put a humidifier in your living room: In a central spot Since people are typically awake when they spend time in their living room (couch naps not included), the placement of a humidifier for safety purposes is less of a concern. The same rules as above generally still stand: The humidifier should go on a table or other flat, dry surface at least a couple feet off the floor. You'll want to place it somewhere that pets or children can't knock it over. Wherever you put your humidifier, make sure to clean it out regularly to keep it running properly (here's how to clean your humidifier). You can also check out how much money a space heater can save you and the best energy-saving smart gadgets that will help you cut down your bills. FAQs Can I use a humidifier every day? If a humidifier is helping alleviate symptoms like dry skin and sinus congestion, using it every day should be okay. However, do exercise caution and monitor the humidity level in your living space. A comfortable and safe humidity range for inside your home, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, is typically between 30 and 50 percent. Can I use tap water in my humidifier? Avoid using tap water in your humidifier because it can contain impurities that can cause health issues, damage the appliance itself -- keeping it clean is important -- or leave residue on surrounding furniture.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
The Church of Jesus Christ strengthens global effort, doubling initial projections, helping improve the lives of more than 21 million women and children worldwide
SALT LAKE CITY , June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its ongoing responsibility to care for those in need, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is bolstering its global initiative to improve the well-being of women and children. During meetings on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Relief Society General President Camille N. Johnson told representatives from eight global humanitarian organizations that the Church is donating another US$63.4 million to this worldwide project first announced in 2023. Last year, the Church announced a $55.8 million donation as part of this effort. 'Collaboration remains at the heart of this initiative; we create the greatest impact through our united efforts. Together, we look forward to another year of creating healthier futures for women and children and strengthening communities,' President Johnson said. During the gathering, representatives shared key results from 2024, highlighting significant progress: The Church has taken a leadership role in convening eight globally recognized nonprofits, and as part of four groups, each focused on projects benefiting women and children. These organizations are: CARE International, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), Helen Keller Intl, iDE, MAP International, Save the Children, The Hunger Project, and Vitamin Angels. The four groups and their areas of focus and objectives are as follows 'With our global reach, we are uniquely positioned to foster collaboration among these eight organizations. By leveraging our individual strengths and resources, we amplify our collective impact,' said Blaine Maxfield, managing director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services. 'What a blessing it is to come together to serve God's children around the world.' The announcement of new funding was part of activities, including an expert panel discussion scheduled for later in the day on Thursday, June 5, led by Bishop L. Todd Budge, Second Counselor in the Church's Presiding Bishopric. The panel focused on health and nutrition for women and children. The panelists were President Camille Johnson, Blaine Maxfield, Sharon Eubank (director of Church Humanitarian Services), Sarah Bouchie (CEO of Helen Keller Intl), Ana Céspedes (CEO of Vitamin Angels), Lizz Welch (CEO of iDE), and Abena Amedormey (Ghana country representative for CRS). In 2023, the First Presidency asked the Relief Society to lead this global effort. President Russell M. Nelson has told women that they have a divine endowment to change lives. He said, 'I am inspired by your diligence, dynamic leadership, and your ability to see a need and meet it.' Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe in following the Savior's two great commandments: to love God and to love our neighbor. As part of this mandate, we seek to maximize our impact so our efforts bless not only those who receive help but also their families and communities. For more information on the Church's effort to care for those in need, please visit the most recent 'Caring for Those in Need' summary. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Dancing Through Menopause Book Announced By Christian Author Betty Johansen
Christian author Betty Johansen has announced 'Dancing Through Menopause,' a faith-based book offering practical strategies for nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being to help women navigate menopausal changes with confidence and spiritual growth. Big Spring, United States, June 7, 2025 -- Wordsmith World announces the release of 'Dancing Through Menopause,' a new book by Christian author Betty Johansen that addresses physical, hormonal, and emotional aspects of menopause from a faith-based perspective. The book helps Christian women navigate this life transition with confidence and joy while maintaining their spiritual well-being. For more information, visit 'Dancing Through Menopause' provides readers with an understanding of menopausal changes and offers practical strategies for managing symptoms. The book includes a self-assessment section that helps women analyze their unique menopausal experience, along with specific approaches to nutrition, intermittent fasting, and exercise that can alleviate common symptoms and improve overall health. Betty Johansen draws from her background as a former educator, having taught Chemistry, Integrated Physics, and 7th Grade Science before retiring. A lifelong resident of West Texas, Johansen has transitioned from teaching to writing, creating Christian-inspired content that combines practical advice with spiritual guidance. Her scientific background gives her a unique perspective on explaining the biological processes of menopause while her faith informs the spiritual aspects of her approach. 'This book examines the science behind the physical, hormonal, and emotional aspects of menopause while offering ways to overcome its challenges,' said Johansen. 'My goal is to help women develop a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle during this significant transition. The Christian perspective provides an additional dimension of support that many women find valuable during this time.' The book addresses common menopausal symptoms such as weight gain, hot flashes, and mood swings, presenting them as opportunities for personal growth and spiritual development. Johansen encourages readers to view menopause as a new phase in life that can be navigated with grace and faith. The book provides ways to approach these changes with a positive mindset while acknowledging the real challenges they present. Unlike many health books that focus solely on physical symptoms, 'Dancing Through Menopause' takes a holistic approach that considers the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. This integrated method helps women not only manage their symptoms but also find meaning and purpose in this new stage of life. Johansen's writing style makes complex medical information accessible to the average reader while providing depth for those seeking a more thorough understanding. 'Dancing Through Menopause' is now available through the author's website or through Amazon. For additional information about Betty Johansen and her other Christian-inspired works, visit Contact Info: Name: Betty Johansen Email: Send Email Organization: Wordsmith World Address: Texas, Big Spring, Texas 79720, United States Website: Release ID: 89161860 If there are any problems, discrepancies, or queries related to the content presented in this press release, we kindly ask that you notify us immediately at [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our responsive team will be available round-the-clock to address your concerns within 8 hours and take necessary actions to rectify any identified issues or support you with press release takedowns. Ensuring accurate and trustworthy information is our unwavering commitment.
