Latest news with #preventable
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
3-Year-Old In State Family Service Custody Died Inside Hot Car Parked For Hours: Lawyer
A 3-year-old Alabama boy who died while in the care of the state's Department of Human Resources was found inside a hot parked car on Tuesday after he was picked up from his father's scheduled visit. Ke'Torrius Starks Jr. was living in temporary foster care at the time of his death and was picked up from day care by a third-party DHR contract provider for a planned visitation with his father, Ke'Torrius Starks Sr., the child's aunt Brittney Debruce told However, the 3-year-old never returned back to the day care once the visitation was over. Courtney French, who is representing the child's family, told ABC affiliate WBMA-LD the child's visitation with his biological father ended at around 11:30 a.m. that morning and was picked up by a third-party contract worker. However, Ke'Torrius Starks Sr. did not hear about his son's well-being until 6:40 p.m., French told the outlet. He said police informed Starks that the child was found unresponsive inside a vehicle that was parked for over five hours. 'Based upon a preliminary investigation, with the current extreme outside temperatures and the heat index of 108 degrees, the interior temperature of the car where KJ was trapped likely exceeded 150 degrees,' French said, calling the incident 'a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy.' French told the outlet the worker had stopped to pick up food for her family after picking up Ke'Torrius from the visitation, then shopped at a tobacco store before returning back to her home, leaving the boy outside, fastened in his car seat. Ke'Torrius was pronounced dead once Birmingham Fire & Rescue Service arrived, according to a press release shared with HuffPost. The contract worker was taken in for questioning and authorities claimed she had 'accidentally' left the boy inside the car. DHR told HuffPost in an email 'the provider has terminated their employee' and due to confidentiality, they cannot comment further regarding the exact circumstances surrounding Ke'Torrius' death. In a statement to WBMA-LD, Ke'Torrius' family called the boy's death 'a parent's worst nightmare,' adding, 'our baby should be alive.' Related... Nine Migrants Have Died In ICE Custody Since Trump Took Office, ICE Head Says Temperature In New York City Reaches 100 Degrees As East Coast Swelters Under Extreme Heat Wave Hundreds Of Temperature Records Could Be Broken During This Week's Dangerous Heat Wave
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
6 Foods to Eat Weekly to Lower Your Risk of Colon Cancer, According to Experts
Reviewed by Dietitian Jessica Ball, M.S., RD Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but fortunately, it's also one of the most preventable. Research shows that lifestyle changes, particularly in diet, can significantly reduce your risk. If you're curious about which foods to incorporate into your weekly meal plan, you're in the right place. Below, we've highlighted 6 powerhouse foods that experts recommend eating weekly (or more frequently!) to help protect and enhance colon health. From fiber-rich veggies to nutrient-packed nuts, these choices are packed with flavor and backed by science to potentially help reduce colon cancer risk naturally. 1. Broccoli "Broccoli and especially broccoli sprouts are some of the top foods I'd recommend to reduce colon cancer risk," shared Johannah Katz, M.A., RD. One reason why Katz feels that broccoli is a standout vegetable when it comes to reducing the risk of colon cancer is thanks to its rich content of sulforaphane, or a compound known for its powerful cancer-fighting properties. Sulforaphane supports the body in multiple ways, including aiding detoxification, reducing inflammation and protecting colon cells from DNA damage. 'Sulphoraphane has been extensively studied for its chemo preventive properties," Katz added. The American Institute for Cancer Research also highlights cruciferous vegetables like broccoli as essential for a cancer-protective diet, particularly for colorectal cancer. 2. Dairy Milk Research shows that consuming more dairy products may help lower the risk of developing and dying from colorectal cancer. A comprehensive analysis of 31 studies found that people with the highest dairy intake had a 21% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with the lowest intake. Milk, in particular, showed a strong protective effect among the dairy foods evaluated. For colorectal cancer mortality, high dairy consumption was linked to a 29% lower risk of death. One reason why dairy milk may be such a positive addition to a colorectal cancer risk reducing diet is due to the calcium that dairy milk provides. 'In a large prospective study of diet and colorectal cancer, there were less occurrences of colorectal cancer in those who consumed more calcium-rich foods,' shared Teresa Gentile, M.S., RDN. 3. Walnuts Walnuts are a nutritional powerhouse, and their benefits for colon cancer risk reduction make them a standout snack. One of the key reasons is their rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight inflammation, a factor closely linked to cancer development and progression. Additionally, walnuts are packed with fiber, which supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria in the microbiome. What truly sets walnuts apart, though, is their polyphenol compounds. "Our microbiome turns these polyphenols into a compound called Urolithin A," Jen Scheinman, M.S. RDN, CDN explains. This compound has been shown to reduce inflammation and support colon health. 'One study followed people who ate roughly a handful of walnuts a day for 3 weeks. The researchers noted that those with the highest levels of Urolithin A after 3 weeks had lower levels of inflammatory markers and had higher levels of a protein called peptide YY, which may help protect against colon cancer,' Scheinman explained. 4. Legumes Pulses and legumes, such as lentils, black beans and chickpeas, are nutritional all-stars when it comes to reducing colon cancer risk, Lisa Young, Ph.D., RDN, explains. These plant-based powerhouses are packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants, all of which play a role in supporting gut health and reducing inflammation—two key factors in lowering the risk of colon cancer. In fact, recent research continues to show a strong link between high-fiber diets, particularly those rich in legumes, and a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. One analysis of 29 studies found that people who ate the most legumes had a 10% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those who ate the least. Even better, increasing the legume intake by just one serving (about 100 grams or ½ cup) per day was linked to a 21% lower risk. Incorporating legumes into your diet doesn't have to be complicated. "It's ok to start slowly by substituting your favorite beans instead of meat," explained Young. You can toss black beans into a salad, whip up a chickpea-based spread like hummus or enjoy a hearty lentil soup. These simple swaps not only add flavor and variety to your meals but also provide a powerful boost to your colon health. 5. Pistachios Pistachios are not only a delicious snack but also a smart choice for reducing colon cancer risk. Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, explains, "Pistachios are a smart snack choice for lowering colon cancer risk," pointing to research that found a 25% lower risk of colon cancer for every 5-gram-per-day increase in total nut intake, including tree nuts like pistachios. These little green gems are packed with nutrients and fiber, which support gut health and play a role in cancer prevention. Plus, they're easy to enjoy on their own or as part of a meal. More research highlights additional reasons to reach for pistachios. Thomason shares that a 2025 clinical trial found that eating about 2 ounces of pistachios daily helped shift gut microbiota composition in a beneficial way, increasing levels of butyrate-producing bacteria, an important factor in colon health and cancer prevention. Consistency is key, and Thomason suggests treating pistachios as a "sprinkle food" by adding them to salads, oatmeal, yogurt or roasted vegetables. This simple habit not only helps you meet your daily intake goal but also adds flavor, texture and nutrients to your meals, making pistachios a tasty and powerful ally for your colon health. 6. Watermelon Watermelon isn't just refreshing for summer; it's also a fantastic food for reducing colon cancer risk. "Watermelon is also a food to keep on your radar as it is high in lycopene, which has been associated with reduced risk of colon cancer," Sharniquea White, M.S., RDN, LD, explained. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and reduces inflammation, both of which are key in lowering cancer risk. Plus, watermelon is hydrating and low in calories, making it an easy addition to any diet. Recent studies have shown just how impactful watermelon can be. White points out that "higher watermelon intake could reduce colon cancer risks by 26%." That's a significant benefit for such a simple and delicious food! Other Tips for Reducing Colon Cancer Risk While incorporating these foods into your weekly diet is a fantastic start, other lifestyle changes can amplify your results. Here are additional tips for lowering your colon cancer risk: Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, has been linked to higher colon cancer risk. Stay active and eat a balanced diet to support healthy weight maintenance. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your digestive system moving and prevents constipation, a potential contributor to colon health issues. Limit ultra-processed meats: Diets high in ultra-processed meats like bacon and hot dogs have been associated with increased colon cancer risk. Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement most days of the week. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Both habits can damage cells and increase cancer risk. Reducing or eliminating them can make a big difference. Our Expert Take When it comes to preventing colon cancer, what you eat plays a critical role. Including foods like broccoli, dairy milk, walnuts, pulses, pistachios and watermelon in your weekly diet can go a long way in supporting colon health and reducing your cancer risk. Paired with other good-for-you habits like staying active, staying hydrated and eating mindfully, these dietary choices can make a significant impact on your overall well-being. Small, consistent changes are the key to long-term health. Try incorporating these foods one by one and enjoy the benefits they bring—not just for your colon but for your body as a whole. A healthier you starts at the root of your habits—so stock up on these nutrient-packed foods. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
CTV News
12-07-2025
- CTV News
‘She was being ignored': Survivor of hammer attack that killed B.C. mom calling for change
Carrie Wiebe shows one of the bruises that remain on her body after being attacked in Kelowna, B.C., with her friend Bailey McCourt, who was killed. One week after the murder of Kelowna, B.C., mother Bailey McCourt, her friend and coworker who survived the horrific attack is recovering, both physically and emotionally. 'I'm covered in bruises and battle wounds,' Carrie Wiebe said Friday. 'The pain is quite excruciating.' The memories of what happened could haunt her for much longer. The two women were returning from their lunch break on the afternoon of July 4 when McCourt's estranged husband allegedly beat them both with a hammer in a busy parking lot. Wiebe said they had just been discussing McCourt's fears about her husband – who had just been released from custody that day, shortly after being convicted of assault by choking and uttering threats in a domestic violence case – and how little support she was receiving. 'She was so scared,' Wiebe said. 'She 100 per cent knew that this was a possibility.' McCourt was killed, leaving behind two young daughters. She was 32. To Wiebe, who also suffered a concussion after being struck in the head during the attack, her friend's death was entirely preventable. 'I absolutely don't think she was getting the help she needed,' Wiebe said. 'I think she was being ignored.' 'So much light inside of her' Wiebe described her friend as a great mother to her daughters, ages three and nine, and a beloved friend who brought joy to their office. 'She made me laugh every single day,' Wiebe said, crying. 'She had so much light inside of her.' McCourt loved her girls more than anything, said Wiebe, who is heartbroken the siblings will grow up deprived of their mother. She said she's intent on seeing a 'Bailey's Law' passed that could prevent other families from suffering similar tragedies, while keeping her friend's memory alive. 'I just don't want her to be forgotten, ever,' she said. Bailey McCourt Bailey McCourt, 32, is seen in an undated image. 'Wrath of the release' In her own experiences with domestic violence, Wiebe said she struggled to have her concerns taken seriously when she reported her partner's abuse to the police. 'They would always just release him – and when they release him, he's extra angry,' she said. 'And he comes home, and then I get the wrath of the release. So at some point, you stop calling because it's easier.' She can't believe that McCourt's estranged husband, James Edward Plover, would be released after his convictions rather than be held in custody pending his sentencing. But with her friend's death getting national attention, Wiebe said she's hopeful the people in power will take notice and make changes. She said she won't stop until that happens. 'I've been in touch with some MPs already, I have meeting set up,' Wiebe said. 'I will scream from the rooftops if I have to.'
Fox News
09-07-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Making these 11 lifestyle changes could ward off Alzheimer's, expert says
Research developments in Alzheimer's disease, including newly approved blood tests for early detection, have helped patients get diagnosed sooner. As the common dementia has been on the rise among younger individuals, the spotlight is on ways to prevent or slow the disease. Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging doctor and founder of Amen Clinics in California, spoke with Fox News Digital in an interview about Alzheimer's risk and management. "Alzheimer's starts in your brain decades before you have any symptoms," he said. "So, a 59-year-old woman I diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease likely had negative changes in her brain in her 20s." "It's really never too early to think about protecting your brain and your mind." Amen, who also authored the book "Preventing Alzheimer's," confirmed that half of Alzheimer's cases are preventable, according to recent findings. This can be done through nurturing brain health and treating the 11 major risk factors that "steal your mind," he said. "It's really never too early to think about protecting your brain and your mind." To remember the factors that can help ward off Alzheimer's, Amen created the acronym "BRIGHTMINDS" as follows. Low blood flow is the No. 1 brain imaging predictor of Alzheimer's disease, according to the doctor. Alcohol, marijuana, caffeine, nicotine, sedentary behavior and excess weight or obesity can all decrease blood flow, thus should be avoided. To promote blood flow, Amen suggests "walking like you're late," which could entail walking 30 minutes a day — alternating between three minutes of normal walking and three minutes of fast walking. "Do that five times for 30 minutes, and it increases blood flow to your brain," he said. Along with retirement and aging can come a slowdown in learning and cognitive activity, leading to a higher Alzheimer's risk, Amen said. He encourages retirees to learn something new every day to keep the brain active and healthy. Inflammation is a "major cause" of psychiatric issues, Amen revealed, as well as conditions like cancer, arthritis and heart disease. Flossing is an easy way to reduce inflammation in the gums and help prevent gum disease, which is a gateway to brain disease, according to the doctor. "Genes aren't a death sentence," Amen said. "What they should be is a wake-up call." The doctor said everyone should take steps to discover which diseases run in the family and then follow a daily prevention program. "I have heart disease and obesity in my family," he said. "I don't have heart disease, and I'm not overweight. Why? Because I'm on an obesity heart disease prevention program every day of my life." Concussions and head trauma are a "major cause" of psychiatric problems, Amen described, and should be avoided. "Don't text and drive," he warned. Some well-known toxins like alcohol, marijuana and other drugs are known to have negative impacts on overall health. But some not-so-obvious toxins can include lead, mold, mercury from fish, and even general anesthesia, Amen cautioned. "You always want to support your organs in detoxification," he said. "Drink more water, as it helps flush things through your kidneys … eat more fiber for your gut, and hold the alcohol." Amen also suggested eating brassicas, which include vegetables in the cabbage family, as they have a detoxifying effect. The expert also highlighted the benefits of sauna use as a detox tool. "The people who take the most saunas have the lowest incidence of Alzheimer's disease," he stated. A healthy mental state will help support a healthier brain, experts agree. "Stop believing every stupid thing you think," Amen advised. Keeping your body healthy and immune from infections is key to overall health, according to Amen. The doctor suggested optimizing vitamin D intake, which can help support the brain and immune system. The brain specialist recommends having a hormone balance check done every year, as any imbalances can interfere with the brain and increase Alzheimer's risk. "Diabesity," a term referring to the parallel occurrence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, can be a major threat to overall health, the doctor warned. "You really want to care about your weight," Amen said. Weight and diet play an important role in brain health, as Amen's research has shown that as weight increases, the size and function of the brain decreases. "Genes aren't a death sentence. What they should be is a wake-up call." "Being overweight, you automatically have 10 of the 11 risk factors, because being overweight lowers blood flow, accelerates aging, increases inflammation and changes your hormones in a negative way," he said. "Be mindful of only loving food that loves you back." Sleep is crucial for a high-functioning mind, as an adequate night's slumber "washes" the brain every night, Amen noted. Better sleep translates to improved memory, energy, blood flow and decision-making, the doctor said, and should be a priority when working to prevent Alzheimer's.
The Independent
18-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Grandmother dies from rabies after ‘very slight scratch' from puppy in Morocco
The family of a grandmother who died after contracting rabies said she was scratched 'very slightly' by a puppy while visiting Morocco in February. Yvonne Ford's family said she only became ill two weeks ago, starting with a headache and resulting in her becoming unable to walk, talk, sleep or swallow. Ms Ford, from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, died in Sheffield on June 11 aged 59, according to Sheffield Coroner's Court, where an inquest was opened and adjourned on Wednesday morning. Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust confirmed she was diagnosed with rabies at Barnsley Hospital. A Facebook post which her daughter Robyn Thomson made to raise awareness said: 'Our family is still processing this unimaginable loss, but we are choosing to speak up in the hope of preventing this from happening to others. 'Yvonne Ford, Ron Ford's wife and our Mum, died of rabies. 'She was scratched very slightly by a puppy in Morocco in February. 'At the time, she did not think any harm would come of it and didn't think much of it. 'Two weeks ago she became ill, starting with a headache and resulted in her losing her ability to walk, talk, sleep, swallow. 'Resulting in her passing.' Ms Thomson shared information about rabies, including that it is preventable through prompt medical care after exposure. She added: 'We never thought something like this could happen to someone we love. Please take animal bites seriously, vaccinate your pets, and educate those around you.' The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said there is no risk to the wider public because there is no evidence rabies can be passed between people. However, as a precautionary measure it is assessing health workers and close contacts to offer vaccination where necessary. Rabies is a deadly virus spread through the saliva of infected animals, and people usually get it after being bitten by an infected animal. Animals such as cows, cats and foxes can carry the virus but, in developing countries, stray dogs are the most likely to spread rabies to people. Once a person begins showing signs and symptoms of rabies, the disease is nearly always fatal. The first symptoms of rabies can be similar to flu, while later symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, agitation, anxiety, difficulty swallowing and excessive saliva. People may develop fears around things like swallowing drinks and can suffer hallucinations and paralysis. Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, at the UKHSA, said: 'I would like to extend my condolences to this individual's family at this time. 'If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies. 'There is no risk to the wider public in relation to this case. 'Human cases of rabies are extremely rare in the UK, and worldwide there are no documented instances of direct human-to-human transmission.' According to the UKHSA, rabies does not circulate in either wild or domestic animals in the UK, although some species of bats can carry a rabies-like virus. There have been no human cases of rabies acquired in the UK from animals other than bats reported since 1902. Between 2000 and 2024, there were six cases of rabies reported in the UK linked to people being exposed abroad. Rabies is common in other parts of the world, especially Asia and Africa. Travellers are being advised by the UKHSA to avoid contact with dogs, cats and other animals and check whether they may need a rabies vaccine prior to travel.
