Latest news with #publichealth
Gizmodo
an hour ago
- Health
- Gizmodo
‘Extremely Severe' Obesity in American Kids Is Surging, Study Finds
Many Americans today are living with obesity, even with the advent of newer, more effective drugs like semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy). It's a problem that seems to be getting especially serious in kids, however. Research out today finds that the percentage of children with 'extremely severe' obesity has surged in the U.S. over the past decade and a half. Scientists at the University of California San Diego led the study, which examined nationally representative data of Americans' health. Between 2008 and 2023, the rate of extreme obesity among U.S. children increased more than threefold, they found. The findings highlight a growing public health emergency, the researchers say, given the much higher prevalence of liver and other health problems among this group of children. '[They're] developing adult-type complications—fatty liver scarring, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome—years before graduation. These conditions track into adulthood and shorten life expectancy,' lead author Phillipp Hartmann, an assistant adjunct professor of pediatrics at UCSD, told Gizmodo. 'Treating them strains families, clinics, and the health care system.' How Ozempic Works—and What's Still a Mystery Hartmann runs a weekly liver clinic at Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, where he helps treat children with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), more commonly known as fatty liver. These children typically have obesity as well, and Hartmann began to notice that the most obese children tended to have the worst liver inflammation and scarring. These cases prompted him and his colleagues to wonder whether the current system for diagnosing obesity in children might be outdated. Obesity in children is defined as having a body mass index that's at least in the 95th percentile for children of that specific age and sex. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classifies severe obesity as having a BMI 120% of the 95th percentile or greater (alternatively, a BMI of 35 or greater). The American Academy of Pediatrics has two separate categories (Class 2 and 3) for severe obesity, with the highest having a BMI 140% of the 95th percentile or greater (or a BMI of 40 and above). But the study researchers argue these distinctions still aren't enough to capture the unique added risks seen in the most profound cases of obesity. They've proposed two more classes, which they've coined extremely severe obesity. Class 4 would be having a BMI between 160% and 180% of the 95th percentile, while class 5 obesity would be having a BMI 180% of the 95th percentile or greater. To validate their argument, the researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a nationally representative poll of Americans' dieting and lifestyle habits regularly run by the CDC. As expected, they found that children with extremely severe obesity had much higher rates of diagnosed metabolic disease than children with less severe obesity. They were roughly sevenfold more likely to have fatty liver, eight times more likely to have severe insulin resistance, and ten times more likely to have advanced liver scarring, for instance. They also found that around 1.13% of children in 2023 met the criteria for extremely severe obesity. While that's still a small figure overall, it's more than triple the percentage seen in 2008 (0.32%). With roughly 73 million Americans under 18 living in the U.S. today, that's about 825,000 children who have extremely severe obesity. Rates of extremely severe obesity were higher among teens, boys, and non-Hispanic Black children. The team's findings were published Wednesday in JAMA Network Open. 'Kids already well above a healthy weight keep climbing higher,' said Hartmann. 'They now make up more than one out of every 90 children, and the trend continues to go up.' Pediatric obesity in the U.S. has been on the rise, with about 19% of children affected today. And some of the reasons behind this overall rise, such as more children eating diets rich in calories and ultra-processed foods, likely also help explain why extremely severe obesity is climbing in kids, too. But there might be other factors involved for a subset of children, Hartmann notes, including a genetic vulnerability or the aftereffects of the pandemic on their stress and sleeping habits. 'Because these pressures overlap, weight gain is not merely a personal choice issue but a complex, environment-driven problem,' he notes. Good and Bad News on the Obesity Front in the U.S. There has been some positive news about obesity in America lately. The latest CDC data shows that the national obesity rate has finally stopped climbing, at least in adults. Some of this decline is likely driven by the emergence of more effective GLP-1 medications like semaglutide. But the same data also suggests that severe obesity hasn't yet stalled. And as powerful as these newer drugs are, many people haven't been able to access them due to shortages or their high costs and limited insurance coverage. Hartmann says interventions like clearer product labeling, healthy food subsidies, and community programs emphasizing physical activity can possibly help prevent childhood obesity from happening in the first place. Programs that screen for fatty liver and other metabolic diseases may also be able to keep these cases from worsening. But ultimately, children living with extremely severe obesity need greater access to obesity treatment, which can include family-oriented lifestyle programs, new and older medications, and, for some cases, bariatric surgery. 'Given the limited availability of novel, highly effective weight-loss medications such as semaglutide, I strongly believe that patients—especially pediatric patients—with classes 4 and 5 obesity, who carry by far the highest health risks, should be prioritized for access to these treatments,' Hartmann said. 'I hope our study encourages the development of clinical trials specifically tailored to this high-risk population. We would be very interested in serving as a participating site for such a trial.' For now, Hartmann and his team will continue to investigate other aspects of extremely severe pediatric obesity, including whether the microbiomes of these children are distinct from others.
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Health
- Associated Press
New Peer-Reviewed Study Reveals Severe Health and Economic Consequences of 2025 Medicaid Policy Changes
Research published in JAMA Health Forum projects 13-14 excess deaths and over 800 preventable hospitalizations annually per 100,000 people losing Medicaid coverage SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / July 16, 2025 / Waymark, a public benefit company dedicated to improving access and quality of care in Medicaid, today published peer-reviewed research in JAMA Health Forum examining the projected health system and economic impacts of 2025 Medicaid policy changes. The study, conducted in collaboration with researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, reveals that H.R. 1, the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' recently passed by Congress, could result in devastating consequences for vulnerable populations, rural communities, and local economies nationwide. Numerous studies from multiple organizations, including the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), estimate that Medicaid changes including eligibility restrictions, work requirements, and reduced federal matching rates would result in between 7.6 million and 14.4 million Americans becoming uninsured by 2034. Unlike previous analyses focused on enrollment projections, this study quantifies how changes in federal spending and coverage could impact population-level health outcomes and create economic ripple effects for communities across the country - particularly in rural areas already struggling with healthcare access. Key findings: The study projects that for every 100,000 people who lose Medicaid coverage, communities can expect substantial consequences for health outcomes and economic stability: Health and Economic Impacts (Per 100,000 People Losing Coverage): Healthcare System Impacts (National Scale): The study analyzed both base case and higher coverage loss scenarios, with per-capita health and economic consequences remaining consistent across both scenarios. These projected ratios can be applied regardless of the final number of people affected by the policy changes, as uncertainty remains regarding the scale of coverage losses due to administrative burdens of renewal and work requirement verification processes. The study is based on a comprehensive microsimulation model incorporating empirically derived parameters from peer-reviewed literature on health outcomes, healthcare systems, and local economies. 'This analysis demonstrates that Medicaid policy changes in H.R. 1 could have far-reaching consequences extending well beyond federal budget considerations,' said Dr. Sanjay Basu MD PhD, lead author of the study and Co-Founder and Head of Clinical for Waymark. 'The data shows that rural and underserved communities would bear a disproportionate burden of these policy changes, with implications for people's lives and livelihoods that state and local policymakers must carefully consider.' With H.R. 1 now signed into law, these findings provide critical insights into what communities can expect as the legislation's provisions take effect. The law includes 80-hour monthly work requirements for able-bodied adults, enhanced eligibility verification every six months, and reduced federal matching rates for expansion populations - representing the most significant restructuring of Medicaid since the program's creation. 'Medicaid affects many different aspects of people's lives,' said Dr. Seth A. Berkowitz MD MPH, co-author of the study and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. 'When Medicaid gets cut, there are of course health impacts to the people who lose coverage. But there are also important impacts to the broader community, and policymakers need to consider those impacts as well.' Recognizing the importance of tracking implementation impacts, the research team has made their microsimulation model open source to enable updated estimates as implementation details are finalized. This approach ensures that policymakers and stakeholders have access to the most current projections as states develop their implementation plans. 'This research demonstrates the critical importance of understanding the full consequences of proposed Medicaid changes beyond federal budget numbers,' said Dr. Sadiq Y. Patel MSW PhD, an author for the study and VP of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence for Waymark. 'Our model reveals that coverage losses would cascade through communities in ways that profoundly impact public health, healthcare delivery systems, and local economies. These findings should inform policymakers about the real-world trade-offs inherent in these policy decisions.' The research letter titled 'Projected Health System and Economic Impacts of 2025 Medicaid Policy Proposals' was published in JAMA Health Forum. The study was conducted by Dr. Sanjay Basu (Waymark, University of California San Francisco), Dr. Sadiq Y. Patel (Waymark, University of Pennsylvania), and Dr. Seth A. Berkowitz (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill). About Waymark Waymark is a public benefit company dedicated to improving access and quality of care for people receiving Medicaid. We partner with health plans and primary care providers - including health systems, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and independent practices - to reduce disparities and improve outcomes through technology-enabled, community-based care. Our local teams of community health workers, pharmacists, therapists and care coordinators use proprietary data science and machine learning technologies to deliver evidence-based interventions to hard-to-reach patient populations. Waymark's peer-reviewed research has been published in leading journals including the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) Catalyst, Nature Scientific Reports, and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)-demonstrating measurable improvements in health outcomes and cost savings for Medicaid populations. For more information, visit Contact Information Iman Rahim Communications [email protected] SOURCE: Waymark press release
CBS News
an hour ago
- Health
- CBS News
First human case of West Nile virus of 2025 reported in Lake County, Illinois
The Lake County Health Department reported the first human case of West Nile virus in Lake County for the year. The infected resident is in their 70s and became sick in early July, health officials confirmed in a written release. According to the Lake County Health Department, nine out of 214 batches of mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus so far this year. West Nile virus peaks in late summer, usually from July through September, when the mosquito population is at its peak. West Nile virus is spread to people from infected mosquitoes, most commonly in the summer. Eight out of 10 people infected do not develop symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The public is advised to do their best to protect themselves from mosquito bites, including using an EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and, if possible, avoiding peak mosquito feeding times, typically around dusk and dawn. "As the weather gets warmer, all Chicago residents are encouraged to Fight the Bite and protect themselves against mosquito bites so they can remain safe and healthy this summer," CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige said. It is also encouraged to check often overlooked places that may contain water, such as bird baths, water pails, and flower pots. While most people infected with the virus do not feel sick, about one in five will develop a fever and flu-like symptoms. Other symptoms include body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Severe illness can occur in about one in 150 people and is most likely to occur in people over age 55 or with weakened immune systems. The department said there are no specific medications to treat the virus in people. The best way to prevent getting sick is to prevent mosquito bites.
Globe and Mail
2 hours ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Alectra urges customers to stay cool and conserve energy as prolonged heatwave continues across Southern Ontario
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With a multi-day stretch of extreme heat and humidity continuing across Southern Ontario, Alectra Utilities is encouraging residents to prioritize their health and safety while taking steps to reduce electricity consumption. Environment Canada has issued a heat warning with daytime highs of 31 to 35 C and humidex values reaching up to 42. The intense conditions are expected to persist through Thursday night. With extreme heat events becoming more frequent, investing in renewing aging equipment and installing new infrastructure remains crucial to meet the growing grid demand. For more information on Alectra's capital construction investments, please visit: To help manage electricity consumption and lower summertime bills, Alectra recommends the following tips: Use a programmable thermostat to regulate indoor temperatures. Close curtains or blinds during peak sun hours. Delay using major appliances, such as dishwashers or dryers, until the evening. Use ceiling or portable fans to circulate air. Keep windows and doors closed while using air conditioning. If your home is too hot, consider visiting a cooling centre, public library, mall or community centre. Follow the advice of your local public health authority. For more tips, visit For more information about how you can save energy this summer and avoid higher bills, visit About Alectra Utilities Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario's Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow's energy future. X: Facebook: LinkedIn: Bluesky: Media Contact
Daily Mail
6 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Experts pinpoint reason for huge surge in cases of bowel and colon cancer - and twelve other types
Rising obesity levels have led to a tripling of deaths from cancers linked to being overweight, American medics warn. Analysing data from 33,000 obesity related cancer deaths in the US between the late 90s and 2020 the experts found the number of fatalities had risen from 3.7 per million to 13.5 per million across the two decades. This included deaths from bowel and colon cancer, a form of the disease known to be mysteriously rising among young healthy adults under 50. The analysis also found certain parts of the population had been harder hit by rising cancer deaths than others. These included women, older adults, rural population and people from Black and Native American backgrounds. Obesity is known to increase the risk of 13 types of cancer, with being overweight the second biggest cause of the disease in Britain triggering one in 20 cases. In the US, cancers linked to obesity account for 40 per cent of all forms of the disease diagnosed per annum. Dr Faizan Ahmed, of Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Centre in New Jersey and lead researcher of the analysis, said the findings showed the importance of public measures to tackle obesity. 'This research underscores the need for targeted public health strategies such as early screening and improved access to care, especially in high-risk rural and underserved areas,' he said. The analysis also found the burden of obesity-related cancer deaths was higher in certain parts of the US. Regionally the Midwest had the highest rates while the Northeast had the lowest. By state level Vermont, Minnesota and Oklahoma had the highest rates of deaths, while Utah, Alabama and Virginia had the lowest. Obesity increases the risk of 13 cancers: oesophageal, breast, bowel, uterus, gallbladder, stomach, kidneys, liver, ovaries, pancreas, the thyroid and one type of brain and blood cancer respectively. Having extra fat on the body increases the risk of cancer in various ways. Too much body fat can cause levels of growth hormones to increase. This in turn encourages cells to divide more often, and the risk of mutations that could become cancer. Fat also causes inflammation in the body where it accumulates which also encourages cell division and increases the risk of cancer. Finally—for women—fat cells can produce more of the female sex hormone oestrogen after menopause. This can lead to increased cell division in the breasts and womb, increasing the risk of cancer developing. About one in four people in England are obese, roughly double the proportion in the 90s. The increase has been even starker in the US with 40 per cent now considered obese compared to about 12 per cent in the early 90s. While obesity is thought to be responsible for about 5 per cent of all cancers in the UK, this dramatically increases for certain types. For bowel cancer—which includes colon and rectal cancer—obesity or being overweight triggers 11 per cent of all cases of this disease. Men are especially at risk with research suggesting a man's risk of developing bowel cancer increases by 10 per cent for every 11lbs (5kg) he puts on in adulthood. The risk of colon cancer in men increases by 30 per cent for every five increase of their body mass index (BMI). For women the chances of developing colon cancer increases by 12 per cent for every five BMI they gain. Experts have noted a concerning and mysterious rise in rates of bowel cancer among young adults, defined in cancer terms as those under 50. A recent global study found rates of bowel cancer in under 50 year-olds are rising in 27 of 50 nations. England is averaging a 3.6 per cent rise in younger adults every year-one of the highest increases recorded. While the disease is known linked to obesity, experts have noted that the disease also seems to also be occurring in fit and healthy patients. Some experts believe the explanation must lie in environmental factors young people have been exposed to more than previous generations. While no 'smoking gun' has been found, there are multiple theories. These include modern chemicals in diets, microplastics, pollution, and one recent study even pinned the surge on exposure to E. coli in food. There are around 2,600 new bowel cancer cases in people aged 25-49 in Britain every year, and around 44,100 new cases among all ages. Around 44,000 cases of bowel cancer are diagnosed every year in the UK, with about 130,000 in the US. The disease kills almost 17,000 Britons each year, with the death toll rising to about 50,000 in America. Overall, just over half of bowel cancer patients are expected to be alive 10 years after their diagnosis. The health burden of obesity— which costs the UK economy billions —is one of the reasons why ministers are so keen to rollout revolutionary new weight loss jabs. Sold under the brands Mounjaro Wegovy, increasing access to these drugs is one of one the cornerstones of the 10-year-plan for the NHS. The analysis on US obesity-linked cancer deaths was presented at the ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in San Francisco and has not been fully published.
