Latest news with #DrBrookeCunningham
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Deaths by suicide in Minnesota remained steady in 2024, with higher rates in rural areas
The number of deaths by suicide in Minnesota remained steady last year. The Minnesota Department of Health recently released a preliminary report of preventable deaths by suicide in the state in 2024, showing there were 813 suicides among Minnesota residents last year, slightly down on 815 in 2023. Both years mark a decrease from 2022, which saw a state high of 860 total deaths by suicide. Overall, deaths by suicide in Minnesota have trended up for the past 20 years with slight fluctuations year-to-year, mirroring nationwide patterns, according to MDH. 'The overall increase in deaths by suicide over the last couple of decades continues to be concerning,' Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham said in a statement. 'Every death by suicide is a tragedy and can have an ongoing impact on families and communities. Our aim is to help make sure people know suicide is preventable and recovery is possible.' The suicide rate in "completely" rural Minnesota counties was twice that of metro area counties, according to MDH. Rural counties made up about 1.6% of the state's population and 2.8% of all deaths by suicide in 2024. MDH cited higher rates of firearm ownership, less access to health and mental healthcare and higher poverty rates in completely rural counties. Firearm injuries made up 51% of deaths by suicide in 2024. Men also made up a majority of deaths by suicide, representing almost 80% of suicides. MDH pointed to suicide prevention efforts including its 988 line crisis line. If you or someone you know needs emotional or mental support, call or text 988 or visit the .
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New test approved for newborns in Minnesota
Minnesota newborns will soon be screened for a disease that can lead to delays in developmental milestones, regression of skills, seizures and in some cases death. The Minnesota Commissioner of Health, Dr. Brooke Cunningham, has approved the state's Newborn Screening Advisory Committee's recommendation to add metachromatic leukodystrophy, known as MLD, to the list of conditions for which newborns in Minnesota are routinely screened, according to a press release from the state Department of Health. The committee will now work toward implementing the screening. The work will include validating a testing method and developing result and follow-up protocols. It is likely the screening will begin in 2026. 'MLD is a type of lysosomal disease, which is caused by an enzyme deficiency leading to a buildup of fats called sulfatides. This buildup causes damage to the brain and nervous system,' the health department press release said. While there is no cure for the disease, early intervention can help manage symptoms and slow the progression. The screening program expects to identify one baby a year that has the disease and will benefit from early intervention. For more information, visit the state's Newborn Screening Program webpage. These researchers are trying to diagnose CTE during life. They're recruiting former football players First at-home test kit for cervical cancer approved by the FDA, company says FDA will allow three new color additives made from minerals, algae and flower petals Despite historic indictment, doctors will keep mailing abortion pills across state lines When they don't recognize you anymore
