Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Measles Vaccination Rates Fall In US, Map Reveals Counties At High Risk For Outbreaks

A sudden decline in U.S. childhood MMR vaccination rates has left millions of children at increased risk for measles, mumps, and rubella, a new Johns Hopkins-led study released today in JAMA reveals. With over 1,000 cases of measles and at least three reported deaths this year—numbers not seen in decades public health officials fear the country is careening toward losing its hard-won herd immunity, reactivating once-eradicated illness in communities where vaccine coverage has collapsed in the post-pandemic period.

The nationwide average kindergartener MMR vaccination rate has fallen from 93.9% prior to the pandemic to 91.2% in 2024—a decline of 2.7 percentage points. This might seem marginal, but it puts the nation perilously short of the 95% level required for herd immunity—the point at which community immunity can stop widespread measles outbreaks.

This is the first large-scale analysis to compare county-level vaccination coverage across so broad a representation of the U.S. population. The researchers analyzed data from 2,066 counties in 38 states and specifically targeted children aged five—by which age both doses of the MMR vaccine should have been given.

The new publicly released dataset—developed by the same team that created the world-renowned Johns Hopkins COVID-19 dashboard—is also giving a detailed snapshot of vaccination levels. The data is crucial to pinpointing counties that are at high risk for outbreaks in the future, particularly as measles cases also start increasing across the country.

Just four states- California, Connecticut, Maine, and New York, experienced MMR increases. The others saw decreases, with Wisconsin recording some of the lowest county-level rates of coverage.

Measles had been eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Flash-forward 25 years, and the landscape has completely changed. In the first half of 2025 alone, more than 1,000 measles cases were confirmed in 31 jurisdictions and states, with three deaths—the first measles deaths in a decade. The CDC says that 97% of those infected had not had even one dose of the MMR vaccine.

The ongoing outbreak is localized in Texas but extends to large metropolitan and rural counties equally, reaching states like California, Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. The experts are cautioning that the situation will become endemic if the vaccination levels keep declining.

The decline in MMR vaccine uptake coincides with the explosive rise of anti-vaccine misinformation, much of which is promoted by social media sites. A study conducted by Columbia University revealed that disinformation is propagated online more quickly than evidence-based interventions can combat it.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., currently U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, has long been involved with the anti-vaccination movement. Even in public office, Kennedy has made public claims about the uselessness of the MMR vaccine and held out pseudoscientific alternatives such as Vitamin A or "natural immunity," assertions refuted by the broader scientific community.

Fueling the flames, Texas lawmakers just signed into law a bill that will make it easier for parents to get kids into school without current MMR or other child immunizations. Exemption requests in Texas alone have increased more than doubled since 2018—from 45,900 to over 93,000 in 2024.

<h2>Understanding Herd Immunity and Measles Transmission</h2>

Measles is frequently quoted as the most infectious virus that has been known to humans. It is estimated by the CDC that 90% of exposed non-immune persons will be infected. Even more worrisome, the virus can remain airborne for two hours after an infected individual leaves a room, thus public places such as schools and clinics are extremely susceptible.

The MMR vaccine has a success rate of 97% when given two doses, the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years old. Exposure to other countries or to the community may require early vaccination in infants as young as six months.

95% or better vaccine rate guarantees that outbreaks are not viable, safeguarding those individuals who are at risk and cannot be vaccinated because of medical issues or age. With 91.2%, the U.S. is now perilously short of that mark.

The U.S. is currently seeing the most cases of measles in one year since 2019, when there were 1,274. Before that, 1990 stands as the worst year ever, with more than 27,000 cases. The trend is unmistakable—whenever vaccination levels decline, measles comes back with a vengeance and speed.

This year's epidemic, omitting 2019, is the largest in more than 30 years. Disturbingly, the majority of cases are occurring among unvaccinated children, so the disease is not only preventable but simply unnecessary.

Professor Gardner emphasizes the urgency, "This isn't just about data—it's about our collective health. Every percentage point we lose puts thousands of children at risk."

While this research is based in the U.S., its implications are worldwide. Vaccine reluctance, partisan politics, and misinformation are not issues exclusive to America. Countries all over Europe, Asia, and Africa are observing similar declines in routine vaccination after COVID. The U.S. data provides a key guide to prevention, readiness, and policy change globally.

Health Conditions A-Z

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measles outbreak

mmr vaccine decline

us vaccination rates

measles risk counties

herd immunity measles

vaccine misinformation

measles cases usa

This Weight Loss Injection Can Now Treat Sleep Apnea; Are There Any Side Effects?

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A sudden decline in U.S. childhood MMR vaccination rates has left millions of children at increased risk for measles, mumps, and rubella, a new Johns Hopkins-led study released today in JAMA reveals. With over 1,000 cases of measles and at least three reported deaths this year—numbers not seen in decades public health officials fear the country is careening toward losing its hard-won herd immunity, reactivating once-eradicated illness in communities where vaccine coverage has collapsed in the post-pandemic period.The nationwide average kindergartener MMR vaccination rate has fallen from 93.9% prior to the pandemic to 91.2% in 2024—a decline of 2.7 percentage points. This might seem marginal, but it puts the nation perilously short of the 95% level required for herd immunity—the point at which community immunity can stop widespread measles outbreaks.This is the first large-scale analysis to compare county-level vaccination coverage across so broad a representation of the U.S. population. The researchers analyzed data from 2,066 counties in 38 states and specifically targeted children aged five—by which age both doses of the MMR vaccine should have been given.The new publicly released dataset—developed by the same team that created the world-renowned Johns Hopkins COVID-19 dashboard—is also giving a detailed snapshot of vaccination levels. The data is crucial to pinpointing counties that are at high risk for outbreaks in the future, particularly as measles cases also start increasing across the country.Just four states- California, Connecticut, Maine, and New York, experienced MMR increases. The others saw decreases, with Wisconsin recording some of the lowest county-level rates of coverage.Measles had been eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Flash-forward 25 years, and the landscape has completely changed. In the first half of 2025 alone, more than 1,000 measles cases were confirmed in 31 jurisdictions and states, with three deaths—the first measles deaths in a decade. The CDC says that 97% of those infected had not had even one dose of the MMR vaccine.The ongoing outbreak is localized in Texas but extends to large metropolitan and rural counties equally, reaching states like California, Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. The experts are cautioning that the situation will become endemic if the vaccination levels keep declining.The decline in MMR vaccine uptake coincides with the explosive rise of anti-vaccine misinformation, much of which is promoted by social media sites. A study conducted by Columbia University revealed that disinformation is propagated online more quickly than evidence-based interventions can combat it.Robert F. Kennedy Jr., currently U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, has long been involved with the anti-vaccination movement. Even in public office, Kennedy has made public claims about the uselessness of the MMR vaccine and held out pseudoscientific alternatives such as Vitamin A or "natural immunity," assertions refuted by the broader scientific community.Fueling the flames, Texas lawmakers just signed into law a bill that will make it easier for parents to get kids into school without current MMR or other child immunizations. Exemption requests in Texas alone have increased more than doubled since 2018—from 45,900 to over 93,000 in 2024.Understanding Herd Immunity and Measles TransmissionMeasles is frequently quoted as the most infectious virus that has been known to humans. It is estimated by the CDC that 90% of exposed non-immune persons will be infected. Even more worrisome, the virus can remain airborne for two hours after an infected individual leaves a room, thus public places such as schools and clinics are extremely susceptible.The MMR vaccine has a success rate of 97% when given two doses, the first at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years old. Exposure to other countries or to the community may require early vaccination in infants as young as six months.95% or better vaccine rate guarantees that outbreaks are not viable, safeguarding those individuals who are at risk and cannot be vaccinated because of medical issues or age. With 91.2%, the U.S. is now perilously short of that mark.Is US Repeating 2019 or 1990?The U.S. is currently seeing the most cases of measles in one year since 2019, when there were 1,274. Before that, 1990 stands as the worst year ever, with more than 27,000 cases. The trend is unmistakable—whenever vaccination levels decline, measles comes back with a vengeance and speed.This year's epidemic, omitting 2019, is the largest in more than 30 years. Disturbingly, the majority of cases are occurring among unvaccinated children, so the disease is not only preventable but simply unnecessary.Professor Gardner emphasizes the urgency, "This isn't just about data—it's about our collective health. Every percentage point we lose puts thousands of children at risk."While this research is based in the U.S., its implications are worldwide. Vaccine reluctance, partisan politics, and misinformation are not issues exclusive to America. Countries all over Europe, Asia, and Africa are observing similar declines in routine vaccination after COVID. The U.S. data provides a key guide to prevention, readiness, and policy change globally.

measles vaccination rates fall in us, map reveals counties at high risk for outbreaks

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The Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the use of tirzepatide, a powerful weight-loss injection for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in adults living with obesity.

Known commercially as Mounjaro, this glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist was initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes. Its subsequent approval for chronic weight management had already positioned it as a frontrunner in the global anti-obesity arsenal. Now, with its newest indication, Mounjaro becomes the first drug officially approved to treat OSA in people with obesity a significant advancement in both sleep medicine and obesity care.

Obstructive <span>sleep apnea</span> affects nearly 1 billion adults globally and is estimated to impact more than 780,000 Australian adults alone. In the United States, the National Sleep Foundation estimates that around 25 million adults suffer from OSA — many undiagnosed.

The disorder occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, blocking the upper airway and causing breathing to stop and start repeatedly. These interruptions often result in loud snoring, choking sensations, disrupted sleep, and serious daytime fatigue.

More than just an inconvenience untreated OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and even cognitive decline. Yet, traditional treatments like CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines and lifestyle changes have been plagued by poor compliance and limited long-term success.

<h2>Mounjaro’s New Role in Sleep Apnea Management</h2>

The latest decision by the TGA adds Mounjaro to the small list of pharmacological tools available to combat OSA — but with a twist. The medication doesn’t directly address the mechanics of airway collapse, but instead reduces excess body fat, particularly around the neck, chest, and abdomen, that contributes to upper airway obstruction.

This indirect yet impactful approach leverages Mounjaro’s proven efficacy in promoting substantial weight loss, making it particularly relevant to the subset of OSA patients who also struggle with obesity (defined as a BMI of 30 or higher).

“Losing weight has long been shown to improve obstructive sleep apnea, and this new indication gives patients a clinically backed tool to help them get there,” says Professor Nick Zwar, a GP and sleep health researcher in Australia.

<h2>Importance of Lifestyle Change to Treat Sleep Apnea</h2>

Experts are cautiously optimistic. While Mounjaro’s new approval represents progress, it’s not a cure-all.

“Weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro can be life-changing, but they are not substitutes for long-term lifestyle change,” Professor Zwar emphasized. “Patients must still commit to sustainable dietary habits and physical activity to maintain their progress and prevent relapse if they discontinue medication.”

This view is echoed by Dr. Moira Junge, CEO of the Sleep Health Foundation, who noted that many individuals with OSA suffer in silence due to limited treatment options. “A pharmacological approach provides hope, especially for those who have struggled with weight loss and CPAP adherence,” she said.

<h2>Who Can Take <span rel="noindex">Mounjaro for Sleep Apnea</span>?</h2>

As per the TGA’s updated guidance, Mounjaro is now approved for use in adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and a BMI of 30 or more. It is not indicated for patients with mild OSA nor for children or adolescents under 18.

It cannot be prescribed to individuals with type 1 diabetes, and caution is advised in people with a history of pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, or severe gastrointestinal issues.

Despite the excitement surrounding its approval, access remains a challenge. Mounjaro is currently not subsidized under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia and remains available only via private prescription.

The starting monthly cost of the initiation dose is approximately $395 USD, a figure that could place it out of reach for many potential users particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

In the U.S., where off-label prescription practices are more flexible, it’s anticipated that sleep specialists and primary care doctors may begin evaluating its relevance for similar patient populations, especially as more data becomes available.

<h2>What Are the Known Side Effects?</h2>

No medication comes without risks and Mounjaro is no exception. While most people tolerate it well, common side effects include:

<ul><li>Nausea</li><li>Upset stomach</li><li>Constipation or diarrhea</li><li>Low blood sugar (especially when used with other diabetes medications)</li><li>Injection site discomfort</li></ul>

These side effects often diminish over time but serious reactions, although rare, can occur. These include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and potential thyroid tumor risks. Hence, it’s critical that the drug be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.

This approval highlights a major global trend of the intersection of metabolic health and sleep health and how it is becoming increasingly relevant. With rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles worldwide, the demand for integrated, accessible treatment solutions has never been greater.

Although the TGA’s decision currently applies only to Australia, it could influence regulatory bodies in the U.S., Europe, and other parts of the world to consider similar approvals. Already, sleep and obesity researchers across the globe are taking note of this development as a potential shift in OSA treatment paradigms.

For millions battling the exhausting cycle of sleep apnea and obesity, this new use for Mounjaro could be a life saver provided it is prescribed responsibly, accessed affordably, and used as part of a long-term wellness plan.

Sleep apnea

mounjaro for sleep apnea

tirzepatide weight loss

sleep apnea treatment

obstructive sleep apnea drug

mounjaro side effects

glp-1 weight loss injection

sleep disorder medication

The Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the use of tirzepatide, a powerful weight-loss injection for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in adults living with obesity.Known commercially as Mounjaro, this glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist was initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes. Its subsequent approval for chronic weight management had already positioned it as a frontrunner in the global anti-obesity arsenal. Now, with its newest indication, Mounjaro becomes the first drug officially approved to treat OSA in people with obesity a significant advancement in both sleep medicine and obesity care.Obstructive sleep apnea affects nearly 1 billion adults globally and is estimated to impact more than 780,000 Australian adults alone. In the United States, the National Sleep Foundation estimates that around 25 million adults suffer from OSA — many undiagnosed.The disorder occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep, blocking the upper airway and causing breathing to stop and start repeatedly. These interruptions often result in loud snoring, choking sensations, disrupted sleep, and serious daytime fatigue.More than just an inconvenience untreated OSA has been linked to high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and even cognitive decline. Yet, traditional treatments like CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines and lifestyle changes have been plagued by poor compliance and limited long-term success.Mounjaro’s New Role in Sleep Apnea ManagementThe latest decision by the TGA adds Mounjaro to the small list of pharmacological tools available to combat OSA — but with a twist. The medication doesn’t directly address the mechanics of airway collapse, but instead reduces excess body fat, particularly around the neck, chest, and abdomen, that contributes to upper airway obstruction.This indirect yet impactful approach leverages Mounjaro’s proven efficacy in promoting substantial weight loss, making it particularly relevant to the subset of OSA patients who also struggle with obesity (defined as a BMI of 30 or higher).“Losing weight has long been shown to improve obstructive sleep apnea, and this new indication gives patients a clinically backed tool to help them get there,” says Professor Nick Zwar, a GP and sleep health researcher in Australia.Importance of Lifestyle Change to Treat Sleep ApneaExperts are cautiously optimistic. While Mounjaro’s new approval represents progress, it’s not a cure-all.“Weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro can be life-changing, but they are not substitutes for long-term lifestyle change,” Professor Zwar emphasized. “Patients must still commit to sustainable dietary habits and physical activity to maintain their progress and prevent relapse if they discontinue medication.”This view is echoed by Dr. Moira Junge, CEO of the Sleep Health Foundation, who noted that many individuals with OSA suffer in silence due to limited treatment options. “A pharmacological approach provides hope, especially for those who have struggled with weight loss and CPAP adherence,” she said.Who Can Take Mounjaro for Sleep Apnea?As per the TGA’s updated guidance, Mounjaro is now approved for use in adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and a BMI of 30 or more. It is not indicated for patients with mild OSA nor for children or adolescents under 18.It cannot be prescribed to individuals with type 1 diabetes, and caution is advised in people with a history of pancreatitis, thyroid tumors, or severe gastrointestinal issues.How Much Does It Cost?Despite the excitement surrounding its approval, access remains a challenge. Mounjaro is currently not subsidized under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia and remains available only via private prescription.The starting monthly cost of the initiation dose is approximately $395 USD, a figure that could place it out of reach for many potential users particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.In the U.S., where off-label prescription practices are more flexible, it’s anticipated that sleep specialists and primary care doctors may begin evaluating its relevance for similar patient populations, especially as more data becomes available.What Are the Known Side Effects?No medication comes without risks and Mounjaro is no exception. While most people tolerate it well, common side effects include:NauseaUpset stomachConstipation or diarrheaLow blood sugar (especially when used with other diabetes medications)Injection site discomfortThese side effects often diminish over time but serious reactions, although rare, can occur. These include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and potential thyroid tumor risks. Hence, it’s critical that the drug be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional.This approval highlights a major global trend of the intersection of metabolic health and sleep health and how it is becoming increasingly relevant. With rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles worldwide, the demand for integrated, accessible treatment solutions has never been greater.Although the TGA’s decision currently applies only to Australia, it could influence regulatory bodies in the U.S., Europe, and other parts of the world to consider similar approvals. Already, sleep and obesity researchers across the globe are taking note of this development as a potential shift in OSA treatment paradigms.For millions battling the exhausting cycle of sleep apnea and obesity, this new use for Mounjaro could be a life saver provided it is prescribed responsibly, accessed affordably, and used as part of a long-term wellness plan.

this weight loss injection can now treat sleep apnea; are there any side effects?

With Chemicals 13,000X Sweeter Than Sugar, What Are The Toxic Risks Of ‘flavoured lies’ In Teen Vaping Products?

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From sleek devices masquerading as highlighters to flavor clouds drifting down school hallways, vaping has burst into a global phenomenon, particularly among teens. Although e-cigarettes were first pitched as a "healthier" alternative to smoking, recent research unearths a disturbing concoction of chemicals lurking beneath those saccharine-tasting plumes. A few are 13,000 times sweeter than sugar. Others? Acutely poisonous. With the increasing popularity of these artificial mixtures, we might be at the beginning of a new epidemic of public health one conceived by "flavoured lies.

Vaping devices currently reign supreme in the nicotine market, with more than 4.5 million constant consumers in the UK alone and countless more internationally. For teenagers, flavored disposable e-cigarettes such as "Blue Razz Ice" or "Killer Kustard" are the most common gateway. In the United States, according to a 2024 federal survey, 5.9% of middle-school and high-school students consume e-cigarettes, with the majority using flavored products.

This popularity is not by chance. The fruit, dessert, and sweet tastes cover up nicotine's bitterness and provide a sensory experience that simulates candy, soda, or gum. Some products feature artificial sweeteners such as neotame, a 7,000–13,000-fold sweeter compound than sugar. Neotame is safe for food use according to the FDA just not for inhaling. The effects of inhaling such a potent compound into sensitive lung tissue are unknown, but it's now available in almost every leading unregulated disposable vape brand.

<h2>Flavored Vape Fueling Future Diseases?</h2>

A new study in JAMA tested 11 of the top-selling disposable e-vape brands—Elf Bar, Breeze, and Mr. Fog among them—and detected neotame in each and every one of them. What's more, the sweeteners were found even in vapes labeled "zero nicotine" or those with analogs, providing them with an even wider, youth appeal.

Scientists employed AI neural networks to model what occurs with the 180 flavor chemicals known when e-liquids are exposed to heat within a vape. The outcome? Alarming.

High temperatures cause dozens of new, toxic substances to emerge—most of which aren't even included in any label. These include:

<ul><li>127 "acutely toxic" substances</li><li>153 "health hazards"</li><li>225 "irritants</li></ul>

These byproducts contain volatile carbonyls (VCs), a family of chemicals that have been shown to destroy the lungs and cause cancer. These were most prevalent in the fruit- and dessert-flavored versions the same versions that control youth tastes.

Though the FDA has approved just 34 e-cigarettes, all restricted to menthol or tobacco flavors, the other 86% of the U.S. vaping market contains technically illegal flavored products yet widely dispensed at convenience stores and gas stations. They are largely made in China, where <span>flavored vapes</span> were outlawed on the domestic market in 2022, pushing exports into overseas markets such as the United States.

The Supreme Court recently upheld the FDA's refusal to approve flavored vape applications on the grounds of their irresistible attraction to young consumers. But in reality, enforcement is still fragmented and non-functional, with illegal, flavored vapes falling through the cracks and into the backpacks of children.

<h2>Why is it Particularly Dangerous for Teenagers?</h2>

The adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to nicotine's impact, and specialists say that early exposure through vaping can have profound and long-lasting effects. Nicotine has been shown to modify the formation of neural pathways in teenagers, raising the likelihood of long-term dependence, diminishing cognitive ability and attention span, and even leading to mood disorders. There is also increasing worry that vaping is a gateway, that it's getting young people to move on to traditional smoking or to other drugs. But the threat is more than nicotine. Numerous youths who have never smoked are now regularly breathing in a mix of up to 180 chemical flavorings found in flavored vapes. These e-liquids include a combination of more than 180 flavoring chemicals, some of which were initially intended for consumption not inhalation.

When heated, they can transform into entirely new compounds, the health impacts of which are not yet fully understood. Unlike tobacco, which took decades to definitively link to lung cancer and heart disease, vaping is introducing unregulated, high-temperature chemicals into young lungs, creating a public health challenge whose full effects may only be known years from now. Most of the 180 flavor chemicals found in e-liquids are derived from the food industry. There, they are safe to consume. But inhale and heat them? A whole other story.

Chemicals such as diacetyl, which is characterized by its "buttery" taste, have already been associated with popcorn lung a serious but unusual type of lung disease. Researchers now fear that a series of long-term diseases will become reality in the next few decades as a result of extended exposure to vaping, particularly among individuals who started smoking e-cigarettes in their teens.

The inconsistency of vaping products also adds to the confusion. Variations in the design of batteries, temperature control, and e-liquids ensure that no two puffs are identical, so the health concerns become even more uncertain. 

The charm of sweet, dessert-like vapes might seem innocent even exciting to some average teen but at the back of those flavors are chemicals never meant to be inhaled, and which could lead to health issues years later.

flavored vapes

teen vaping risks

neotame in e-cigarettes

ai vape study

toxic vape chemicals

vaping health effects

illegal disposable vapes

From sleek devices masquerading as highlighters to flavor clouds drifting down school hallways, vaping has burst into a global phenomenon, particularly among teens. Although e-cigarettes were first pitched as a "healthier" alternative to smoking, recent research unearths a disturbing concoction of chemicals lurking beneath those saccharine-tasting plumes. A few are 13,000 times sweeter than sugar. Others? Acutely poisonous. With the increasing popularity of these artificial mixtures, we might be at the beginning of a new epidemic of public health one conceived by "flavoured lies.Vaping devices currently reign supreme in the nicotine market, with more than 4.5 million constant consumers in the UK alone and countless more internationally. For teenagers, flavored disposable e-cigarettes such as "Blue Razz Ice" or "Killer Kustard" are the most common gateway. In the United States, according to a 2024 federal survey, 5.9% of middle-school and high-school students consume e-cigarettes, with the majority using flavored products.This popularity is not by chance. The fruit, dessert, and sweet tastes cover up nicotine's bitterness and provide a sensory experience that simulates candy, soda, or gum. Some products feature artificial sweeteners such as neotame, a 7,000–13,000-fold sweeter compound than sugar. Neotame is safe for food use according to the FDA just not for inhaling. The effects of inhaling such a potent compound into sensitive lung tissue are unknown, but it's now available in almost every leading unregulated disposable vape brand.Flavored Vape Fueling Future Diseases?A new study in JAMA tested 11 of the top-selling disposable e-vape brands—Elf Bar, Breeze, and Mr. Fog among them—and detected neotame in each and every one of them. What's more, the sweeteners were found even in vapes labeled "zero nicotine" or those with analogs, providing them with an even wider, youth appeal.Scientists employed AI neural networks to model what occurs with the 180 flavor chemicals known when e-liquids are exposed to heat within a vape. The outcome? Alarming.High temperatures cause dozens of new, toxic substances to emerge—most of which aren't even included in any label. These include:127 "acutely toxic" substances153 "health hazards"225 "irritantsThese byproducts contain volatile carbonyls (VCs), a family of chemicals that have been shown to destroy the lungs and cause cancer. These were most prevalent in the fruit- and dessert-flavored versions the same versions that control youth tastes.Though the FDA has approved just 34 e-cigarettes, all restricted to menthol or tobacco flavors, the other 86% of the U.S. vaping market contains technically illegal flavored products yet widely dispensed at convenience stores and gas stations. They are largely made in China, where flavored vapes were outlawed on the domestic market in 2022, pushing exports into overseas markets such as the United States.The Supreme Court recently upheld the FDA's refusal to approve flavored vape applications on the grounds of their irresistible attraction to young consumers. But in reality, enforcement is still fragmented and non-functional, with illegal, flavored vapes falling through the cracks and into the backpacks of children.Why is it Particularly Dangerous for Teenagers?The adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to nicotine's impact, and specialists say that early exposure through vaping can have profound and long-lasting effects. Nicotine has been shown to modify the formation of neural pathways in teenagers, raising the likelihood of long-term dependence, diminishing cognitive ability and attention span, and even leading to mood disorders. There is also increasing worry that vaping is a gateway, that it's getting young people to move on to traditional smoking or to other drugs. But the threat is more than nicotine. Numerous youths who have never smoked are now regularly breathing in a mix of up to 180 chemical flavorings found in flavored vapes. These e-liquids include a combination of more than 180 flavoring chemicals, some of which were initially intended for consumption not inhalation.When heated, they can transform into entirely new compounds, the health impacts of which are not yet fully understood. Unlike tobacco, which took decades to definitively link to lung cancer and heart disease, vaping is introducing unregulated, high-temperature chemicals into young lungs, creating a public health challenge whose full effects may only be known years from now. Most of the 180 flavor chemicals found in e-liquids are derived from the food industry. There, they are safe to consume. But inhale and heat them? A whole other story.Chemicals such as diacetyl, which is characterized by its "buttery" taste, have already been associated with popcorn lung a serious but unusual type of lung disease. Researchers now fear that a series of long-term diseases will become reality in the next few decades as a result of extended exposure to vaping, particularly among individuals who started smoking e-cigarettes in their teens.The inconsistency of vaping products also adds to the confusion. Variations in the design of batteries, temperature control, and e-liquids ensure that no two puffs are identical, so the health concerns become even more uncertain. The charm of sweet, dessert-like vapes might seem innocent even exciting to some average teen but at the back of those flavors are chemicals never meant to be inhaled, and which could lead to health issues years later.

with chemicals 13,000x sweeter than sugar, what are the toxic risks of ‘flavoured lies’ in teen vaping products?

Ishita Roy

Trump Administration's Ban On Emergency Abortion Could Jeopardize Women’s Health

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As legal battles around <span>abortion</span> continue in the United States, the <span>Trump</span> administration has announced plans to revoke federal guidance that currently protects access to emergency abortions in hospitals. The move targets a 2022 directive from the Biden administration that was rooted in the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA)—a federal law that mandates emergency care, including when pregnancy complications threaten a woman’s life.

This potential reversal is more than a political maneuver—it could pose serious risks to patients' health and further strain hospital decision-making.

<h4>What Is EMTALA and Why It Matters</h4>

Enacted in 1986, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) requires that hospitals accepting Medicare funds must offer a medical screening exam and stabilizing treatment to any patient who arrives at the emergency room, regardless of their ability to pay.

In 2022, citing EMTALA, the Biden administration clarified that <span>emergency abortion</span> care falls within the scope of stabilizing treatment when a pregnancy threatens the mother’s life or health. That meant hospitals were legally obligated to provide abortions in such emergencies—even in states where abortion was otherwise banned.

The Trump administration’s proposed rollback would mean that the federal government will no longer enforce this interpretation, leaving hospitals in abortion-restrictive states with unclear guidance. In its recent statement, the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services claimed it would still enforce EMTALA protections, but critics argue that without explicitly including abortion care, pregnant patients may be left in legal limbo during critical medical crises.

<h4>Health Risks of Denied Emergency Abortions</h4>

When abortion is denied in life-threatening cases, the medical fallout can be devastating. Conditions like preeclampsia, ectopic pregnancy, and severe hemorrhaging often require immediate termination of pregnancy to save a woman’s life. Delay or denial can result in organ failure, long-term disability, or even death.

A 2019 study titled They Are Girls, Not Mothers underscores the gravity of forced pregnancy, especially among adolescents. It cites risks such as preterm labor and maternal death, which are significantly higher in teenagers. Globally, pregnancy and childbirth remain the leading cause of death for girls aged 15 to 19.

Additionally, survivors of sexual violence—many of them minors—often face traumatic and subpar medical treatment. In some countries, like Guatemala and Nicaragua, young rape survivors are subjected to unnecessary Caesarean sections due to a lack of provider training. These surgeries can have lifelong implications, including chronic pain, fertility issues, and psychological trauma.

Beyond physical health, forced pregnancy has severe mental and emotional consequences. The Silenced Lives report found a link between forced motherhood and suicide among teenage girls. In one case, a pregnant girl named Juana from Guatemala said, “I want to die; my heart is not happy like before.”

The social implications are equally damaging. Teenage mothers are more likely to drop out of school, miss career opportunities, and fall into poverty. According to the Stolen Lives report, 33% of affected girls only reached primary education. Many are pulled out of classrooms, removed from peer groups, and pushed into adult responsibilities they are unprepared for.

Revoking emergency abortion protections under EMTALA doesn’t just impact legal rights—it creates confusion in emergency rooms and jeopardizes patient safety. Medical staff could be forced to choose between following state abortion bans and offering life-saving care. For pregnant patients in crisis, that legal uncertainty could mean the difference between life and death.

With the Trump administration’s rollback, the future of emergency reproductive care in America remains dangerously uncertain.

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As legal battles around abortion continue in the United States, the Trump administration has announced plans to revoke federal guidance that currently protects access to emergency abortions in hospitals. The move targets a 2022 directive from the Biden administration that was rooted in the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA)—a federal law that mandates emergency care, including when pregnancy complications threaten a woman’s life.This potential reversal is more than a political maneuver—it could pose serious risks to patients' health and further strain hospital decision-making.What Is EMTALA and Why It MattersEnacted in 1986, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) requires that hospitals accepting Medicare funds must offer a medical screening exam and stabilizing treatment to any patient who arrives at the emergency room, regardless of their ability to pay.In 2022, citing EMTALA, the Biden administration clarified that emergency abortion care falls within the scope of stabilizing treatment when a pregnancy threatens the mother’s life or health. That meant hospitals were legally obligated to provide abortions in such emergencies—even in states where abortion was otherwise banned.The Trump administration’s proposed rollback would mean that the federal government will no longer enforce this interpretation, leaving hospitals in abortion-restrictive states with unclear guidance. In its recent statement, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services claimed it would still enforce EMTALA protections, but critics argue that without explicitly including abortion care, pregnant patients may be left in legal limbo during critical medical crises.Health Risks of Denied Emergency AbortionsWhen abortion is denied in life-threatening cases, the medical fallout can be devastating. Conditions like preeclampsia, ectopic pregnancy, and severe hemorrhaging often require immediate termination of pregnancy to save a woman’s life. Delay or denial can result in organ failure, long-term disability, or even death.A 2019 study titled They Are Girls, Not Mothers underscores the gravity of forced pregnancy, especially among adolescents. It cites risks such as preterm labor and maternal death, which are significantly higher in teenagers. Globally, pregnancy and childbirth remain the leading cause of death for girls aged 15 to 19.Additionally, survivors of sexual violence—many of them minors—often face traumatic and subpar medical treatment. In some countries, like Guatemala and Nicaragua, young rape survivors are subjected to unnecessary Caesarean sections due to a lack of provider training. These surgeries can have lifelong implications, including chronic pain, fertility issues, and psychological trauma.Mental and Social ConsequencesBeyond physical health, forced pregnancy has severe mental and emotional consequences. The Silenced Lives report found a link between forced motherhood and suicide among teenage girls. In one case, a pregnant girl named Juana from Guatemala said, “I want to die; my heart is not happy like before.”The social implications are equally damaging. Teenage mothers are more likely to drop out of school, miss career opportunities, and fall into poverty. According to the Stolen Lives report, 33% of affected girls only reached primary education. Many are pulled out of classrooms, removed from peer groups, and pushed into adult responsibilities they are unprepared for.A Crisis of CareRevoking emergency abortion protections under EMTALA doesn’t just impact legal rights—it creates confusion in emergency rooms and jeopardizes patient safety. Medical staff could be forced to choose between following state abortion bans and offering life-saving care. For pregnant patients in crisis, that legal uncertainty could mean the difference between life and death.With the Trump administration’s rollback, the future of emergency reproductive care in America remains dangerously uncertain.

trump administration's ban on emergency abortion could jeopardize women’s health

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