Latest news with #ACTA
Business Wire
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
New Survey Reveals Consumer 'Yuletide Anxiety' Over Tariff Uncertainty
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A new national survey reveals that American consumers are increasingly anxious that tariffs on imported goods could dampen their holiday celebrations. The poll, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) found that over half (61%) of respondents are concerned that tariffs will have an effect on Christmas — from the availability of decorations, toys and electronics to being able to afford the holiday season. Among the key findings: 57% are at least moderately to very concerned that tariffs will make the holidays more expensive this year, and more than three-quarters (77%) of Americans think rising prices could negatively impact this year's holiday season. Two-thirds of (68%) Americans believe essential holiday items will become unaffordable if tariffs lead to substantial price increases. If prices on holiday items increase due to tariffs, seven out of 10 shoppers (70%) say they will take some type of action, including cutting back on spending (46%), buying fewer decorations or gifts (41%), or switching to homemade or alternative gifts (22%). More than half of Americans (56%) agree the government should prioritize eliminating tariffs on essential holiday items to avoid price increases for shoppers. The commercial impact is particularly noticeable when respondents revealed their annual holiday budget with spending falling into the following ranges – under $250 (25%), $250-499 (24%), $500-999 (23%), 1000-1999 (18%), and over $2000 (7%). 'Holiday celebrations are deeply rooted in tradition, and for many families, artificial trees and imported decorations are central to that experience,' said Jami Warner, Executive Director of ACTA. 'This survey makes it clear that Americans are feeling the pinch — and they want to preserve the joy of the season without breaking the bank.' The findings come as policymakers consider extending or modifying tariffs on a broad range of consumer goods. The artificial Christmas tree industry, which relies heavily on overseas manufacturing, is among the sectors most directly impacted. 'We appreciate the Administration's actions to significantly lower the tariffs on Chinese imports, and we ask them to recognize the unintended consequences these tariffs have on the great majority of American families,' added Warner. 'Christmas should be a time of joy, not financial strain for consumers and the numerous small businesses that rely on holiday sales and face potential closure.' About the Survey: This poll was conducted by Ipsos from May 9 to May 11, 2025, using the probability-based KnowledgePanel®. This poll is based on a nationally representative probability sample of 1,019 adults age 18 or older. The margin of error is ±[3.3]% at the 95% confidence level. The American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) is a non-profit organization that serves as a resource for media and consumers seeking information and education on the Christmas tree industry. For continued Christmas tree supply updates and industry news updates, visit or follow ACTA on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or X.
Jordan News
14-05-2025
- Health
- Jordan News
Vitamin D Deficiency: The Silent Killer of Children's Tooth Enamel? - Jordan News
One of the recently identified conditions in the field of dentistry is Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH). This disorder was officially recognized in 2001 by Professor Henrik Weerheijm and his research team at the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) in the Netherlands, through their groundbreaking study that described the condition for the first time. This marked the beginning of growing awareness around the issue of enamel hypomineralization in children. اضافة اعلان Understanding the Possible Causes Since then, MIH has become a major subject of interest in medical and scientific circles. Researchers are striving to uncover its potential causes—ranging from environmental to genetic factors—while also working on effective treatment strategies for its associated symptoms, such as severe tooth sensitivity and increased risk of cavities. This ongoing research is helping to shed light on the mechanisms of the condition and how to prevent it. Is Vitamin D the Main Culprit? Recent studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency during childhood is a key risk factor for developing MIH. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus—two minerals that make up more than 90% of tooth enamel. Evidence from Labs Around the World: Saudi Arabia, Japan, Switzerland Switzerland: A 2024 study from the University of Zurich, led by Professor Benjamin Sluska and published in BMC Oral Health, found that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of MIH by up to 43%. Saudi Arabia: A 2023 systematic review published in Children – MDPI, led by Dr. Ahmed Al-Ali from King Abdulaziz University, confirmed that low vitamin D levels at birth are associated with a higher risk of developing MIH. Australia: In a 2025 study published in Clinical Oral Investigations, Dr. Sophie Hammond showed that sun exposure during a child's first two years reduces the risk of MIH by 38%. Japan: A 2024 study from Osaka University, led by Dr. Yamamoto and published in the Paediatric Dental Journal, warned against the early use of antibiotics, which can negatively affect vitamin D levels and increase the incidence of MIH. USA: A 2023 study by Columbia University, published in BMC Oral Health, found that children with vitamin D deficiency are 22% more likely to suffer from dental caries, especially in primary teeth. A Global Epidemic: Alarming Numbers A global study led by Dr. Wenjundong Zhao from Anhui Medical University in China (2017), published in the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, revealed that 12.9% of the world's children are affected by MIH, with rates as high as 20% in parts of South America. The author of this article suspects even higher prevalence in the Arab world, pending a major upcoming study by King Saud University's College of Dentistry on MIH epidemiology in Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The devastating effects of this condition are not just cosmetic—it can affect nutrition, mental health, and cause dental fear from an early age due to the need for intensive dental treatments at a very young age. The Rescue Plan: Protecting Children's Teeth Starts Today In its 2025 annual report for World Oral Health Day (March), the World Health Organization recommended the following steps to protect children from MIH: Early diagnosis: Visit the dentist before age 6 and before the eruption of permanent teeth. Sun exposure: 15 minutes of daily sunlight (under medical advice). Vitamin D screening: Test and supplement if deficient—particularly important in Arab countries, where despite abundant sunlight, up to 90% of people are deficient due to sun avoidance. Preventive care: Regular fluoride use and periodic dental checkups. Advanced treatments: Use of resistant fillings or crowns (ceramic or metal) for advanced MIH cases. Final Word Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization is not merely about white spots—it may be an early indicator of a serious vitamin D deficiency that threatens bone development and overall health. Prevention starts from day one of a child's life, through proper nutrition and consistent exposure to sunlight.
