Tim Spector's straightforward 'secret weapon' dietary change might offer protection against cancer.
The specialist disclosed that cancer patients possessing healthier gut microbiomes may have a higher chance of surviving the illness. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Professor Tim Spector discussed the advantages of fermented foods for health during his appearance on the Liz Moody Podcast. A nutrition specialist has disclosed a particular kind of food that may offer protection against cancer. This food is not only advantageous for the gut microbiome and the immune system but may also support recovery from severe illnesses. Professor Tim Spector, the creator of Zoe Health, suggests that fermented foods might serve as a "secret weapon" for our bodies. These items, which encompass a variety of foods and beverages like yoghurt, kimchi, and kombucha, have gone through a regulated process of microbial fermentation. Speaking on a new episode of the Liz Moody Podcast, he explained more about the benefits of fermented foods. He referenced a study he started in 1992 with King’s College London. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Tim mentioned that fermented foods like sauerkraut can promote a healthy gut microbiome and may assist the body in recovering from cancer. This study indicated that individuals with more balanced gut microbiomes had a higher chance of overcoming cancer. "I have researched identical twins for three decades, and frequently, one twin would develop cancer while the other remained unaffected," he mentioned. "Even among identical twins, their gut microbes show significant differences. This observation led me to believe that gut microbes play a crucial role in many of these issues." "Individuals facing advanced melanoma, a form of skin cancer, showed that the primary distinction between those who survived and those who did not was the condition of their gut microbiome at the onset of treatment." Podcast host Liz then inquired, “Is there a quick way to rejuvenate our gut microbiome?” In reply, Tim remarked: “For me, fermented foods are a powerful ally for many individuals. There are at least a dozen varieties to choose from, so pick the ones you enjoy. The more diverse probiotic microbes you introduce into your body, the better it is for your immune system.” Some examples of fermented foods available in most supermarkets include: Kefir Kimchi Sauerkraut Yoghurt Miso Sourdough bread Apple cider vinegar Certain cheeses like aged cheddar, gouda, edam, gruyère and parmesan. While many scientific studies say that more research is needed into the connection between fermented foods and cancer, there is research that suggests it could be anti-carcinogenic. A study, published in the Journal of Functional Foods in 2020, explained: “Natural foods have gained popularity both in cancer treatment and prevention. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A research study found a connection between the consumption of fermented dairy products and a reduced risk of developing bowel cancer. Certain nutrient elements found in fermented foods are referred to as "naturally fortified functional nutrients" due to their ability to lower cancer risk and support a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for maintaining physiological balance and preventing various illnesses. The bacteria involved in the fermentation process—an inherent aspect of creating these foods—are responsible for synthesizing vitamins and minerals, generating proteinase and peptidase enzymes, producing bioactive peptides, and eliminating certain non-nutritional components. Additionally, the acids produced during fermentation exhibit anti-cancer properties. The authors of the study stated: “Conventional fermented foods that include probiotic microorganisms have been shown to offer positive health benefits.” They also noted: “Although the findings are encouraging, the strongest evidence regarding the anticancer properties of fermented foods primarily comes from animal studies, with human research still being relatively scarce. There is a lack of sufficient human trials to evaluate these products.” A separate study, published in Frontiers in Oncology in 2022, found that fermented dairy food could lower the risk of bowel cancer, one of the most deadly forms of cancer in the UK. It said: “In conclusion, our meta-analysis suggests that fermented dairy food intake may have an impact on the incidence of colorectal cancer. "In addition, utilizing an economic perspective to highlight the health advantages of altering gut microbiota has been implemented in the fermentation of dairy products, potentially leading to a significant reduction in colorectal cancer rates in the foreseeable future. Therefore, incorporating fermented dairy items into daily diets could serve as a proactive measure for the early prevention of colorectal cancer."
7 amazing ways that water influences your blood pressure
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image source: Shutterstock.com / fizkes What physicians may not disclose regarding the surprising link between hydration and the health of your heart. Your body holds an incredible secret about 60% of it is water and this simple fact might be the key to understanding your blood pressure. Recent medical research has unveiled fascinating connections between your daily water intake and heart health that could revolutionize how we think about managing blood pressure naturally. 7 Unexpected Ways Hydration Affects Your Blood Pressure Your blood volume directly responds to your water intake making dehydration a sneaky trigger for blood pressure changes that most people never suspect. When you’re dehydrated your body releases specific hormones that squeeze your blood vessels tighter potentially causing an unexpected spike in blood pressure. Proper hydration helps your heart pump blood more efficiently reducing the strain on your cardiovascular system throughout the day. Your kidneys need adequate water to filter waste and regulate blood pressure showing how hydration affects multiple systems in your body. Even mild dehydration can trigger compensatory mechanisms that impact your blood pressure without you realizing it. The right amount of water helps maintain proper blood thickness reducing the workload on your heart. Staying hydrated supports your body’s natural ability to regulate sodium levels which directly impacts blood pressure. The overlooked paradox of dehydration that rarely gets discussed When your body signals a need for water, an intriguing process unfolds. At first, you may experience a drop in blood pressure due to a decrease in blood volume. However, the body has a clever way of responding. It secretes potent hormones that tighten your blood vessels in an effort to stabilize blood pressure. This reaction can lead to an unexpected spike in blood pressure, resulting in a paradox that often surprises individuals. The ideal formula for optimal hydration. Forget generic recommendations. Recent studies from leading medical organizations indicate that men typically need around 15.5 cups of fluids each day, while women generally require about 11.5 cups. Nevertheless, these figures are not absolute. Your individual hydration requirements can vary based on several factors such as your level of physical activity, the climate you live in, and your overall health condition. Recognizing your individual requirements Your body communicates distinct signals regarding its hydration needs. Elements such as the intensity of your workouts, environmental conditions, and specific health issues can greatly influence your water intake requirements. Understanding these signals enables you to sustain ideal hydration tailored to your individual circumstances. Beyond simple water. Although water is the ultimate choice for staying hydrated, some drinks offer additional benefits for heart health. Beverages like hibiscus tea, pomegranate juice, beet juice, low-fat milk, and green tea are rich in beneficial compounds that promote relaxation of blood vessels and naturally aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The strength of nature-based solutions These advantageous drinks operate through various processes. Certain ones are rich in nitrates, which assist in widening blood vessels, while others are packed with antioxidants that safeguard vascular health. Additionally, some of these beverages supply vital minerals necessary for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Your comprehensive strategy for maintaining optimal blood pressure levels. Hydration is merely one aspect of the larger picture. An effective strategy for managing blood pressure encompasses various essential lifestyle elements that interact harmoniously: Intelligent dietary selections Emphasize the consumption of foods abundant in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, while minimizing sodium levels. This well-rounded strategy aids your body in maintaining its natural blood pressure control processes. Tactical physical engagement Engaging in regular physical activity enhances heart health and boosts the functionality of blood vessels. Simple exercises, such as brisk walking, can greatly impact your blood pressure positively. Methods for managing stress Chronic stress has the potential to increase blood pressure, making it essential to integrate stress-relief techniques into your daily life for the sake of your heart health. Red flags you should pay attention to Hypertension is often referred to as “the silent killer” due to its tendency to remain undetected for long periods. Although maintaining proper hydration can benefit many individuals, it is crucial to be vigilant for symptoms that may necessitate medical care. Ongoing headaches, dizziness, or chest discomfort warrant prompt medical assessment, particularly if your blood pressure readings consistently surpass 130/80 mm Hg. Grasping your figures Consistent monitoring of your blood pressure can aid in identifying potential issues at an early stage. It's important to record your readings and observe any trends or notable fluctuations that may require medical evaluation. Managing your heart health effectively With this information, you are now more prepared to control your blood pressure through natural methods. Keep in mind that while staying hydrated is essential, it is only one part of a heart-healthy way of life. Making small, consistent adjustments to your daily routines can result in notable enhancements in your blood pressure as time goes on. Establishing eco-friendly routines Begin by establishing achievable hydration targets and slowly integrating additional healthy habits into your daily routine. Monitor your advancements and take the time to acknowledge minor successes on your journey to improved heart health. Keep in mind that although these strategies may aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure, it's essential to discuss your individual circumstances with healthcare professionals. They can assist you in creating a tailored plan that considers your specific health requirements and conditions. By comprehending the complex connection between hydration and blood pressure, you can take proactive measures to naturally enhance your heart health. Ensure you maintain a steady water intake, keep track of your blood pressure consistently, and make educated decisions regarding your overall health practices.
Mum was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in her 40s, but surprisingly, she feels a sense of 'gratitude' about it.
At the age of 50, Vicky Rees-Davies received a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease three years ago, when she observed that her left foot was dragging as she took her dog for a walk. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Vicky Rees-Davies received her Parkinson's diagnosis in her 40s, but she believes that the condition has transformed her perspective on life. In 2020, during a stroll with her dog, Vicky Rees-Davies's husband observed that she was dragging her left foot. She dismissed it, claiming it was just a result of being tired from too much physical activity. A few weeks later, during a dance practice at the gym, Vicky discovered that she was having difficulty performing the moves on her left side. At 50 years old and residing in Somerset, Vicky observed that her left arm was not swinging as she walked. A quick Google search revealed this could be a symptom of a serious illness. Her worst fears were confirmed when she was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 47. Vicky was familiar with the illness, having observed her mother and grandmother confront it. "When I was little, my grandmother suffered from Parkinson's," Vicky recalled. "The one memory that stands out to me is visiting her in the nursing home, watching her shuffle around with trembling hands. My mother also suffered from Parkinson's disease, but during that time, we adhered to the traditional British attitude of keeping a stiff upper lip, so she kept her diagnosis a secret from us for a whole decade." "Individuals with Parkinson's can have a wide range of experiences, and there are more than 100 distinct forms of the condition. While many may envision an older man hunched over, moving slowly and trembling, this isn't the full picture." "Some symptoms you might encounter include a masked facial expression, which can make you appear angry, leading me to believe she was often upset with me. When she started to feel unable to conceal her symptoms any longer, she opened up to us. As a granddaughter and daughter, I've witnessed the effects of Parkinson's firsthand." Vicky's personal experiences with her mother and grandmother led her to seek medical advice from her GP, reports Somerset Live. A few months later, a letter arrived confirming that she too had Parkinson's disease. Although the news was overwhelming at first, Vicky was resolute in her quest to embrace a positive outlook on her diagnosis. "I maintain an optimistic attitude and constantly remind myself of how fortunate I am," she reveals. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Vicky Rees-Davies received a diagnosis of Young-Onset Parkinson’s when she was only 47 years old. "However, when you receive that letter in the mail containing the diagnosis, and you flip it over, you'll find no reference to any support groups or resources. I found it quite disheartening that the letter lacked this information, especially considering the numerous support groups and wonderful individuals available to provide assistance." Vicky couldn't help but think about how others might be facing their own challenges after hearing similar news, so she made up her mind to offer support. "Everyone is dealing with something," she remarked. "I figured that since it is what it is, the best approach was to embrace it and make the most of the situation. I reached out to several charities, became a part of support groups, and began speaking with individuals living with Parkinson's to learn more about their experiences." "After conducting extensive research, I discovered that exercise is incredibly beneficial for those with Parkinson's." With this insight and her experience as a personal trainer, Vicky resolved to leverage her expertise to help others who are facing this challenge. Vicky, a dedicated fitness instructor, started hosting regular exercise sessions specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson's. In addition to her classes, she participated in a sponsored skydive to help raise funds for the cause. This year, she has also committed to running a marathon to support Parkinson's UK. She expressed, "As a fitness instructor, I found myself wondering, 'Will I have to let go of my career?' However, I decided, 'I won't quit until I absolutely can't continue, and thankfully, my medication allows me to keep going'." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Vicky Rees-Davies "One of the challenges of Parkinson's is that it can affect your balance, and as we get older, the risk of osteoporosis increases. It's crucial to build strength in our muscles to safeguard our bones, since poor balance can lead to serious falls." "However, by enhancing the strength of our muscles, we can reduce the risk of fractures or broken bones in the event of a fall. Many of my classes emphasize strength training, and I have conducted a series of sessions using kettlebells and dumbbells specifically for Parkinson's UK." "I currently lead weekly exercise classes for individuals facing challenges with Parkinson's, along with offering personalized training sessions. Engaging in physical activity releases joyful endorphins and can significantly benefit those with Parkinson's. It's crucial for their well-being." "Many individuals offer exercise classes specifically designed for those with Parkinson's, which is fantastic, and I certainly appreciate that effort. However, it can be really beneficial for participants to engage with someone who personally experiences Parkinson's, as they can relate to the emotions and challenges that others might be facing." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Vicky Rees-Davies alongside her loved ones. "I just want to sort of help in any way I can, and I know how good it makes me feel once I've exercised, so I want others to feel that good too. Vicky says that despite the life-altering diagnosis, she wants to raise awareness that Parkinson's is not a death sentence - and says she's actually happy in some way to have the disease. "I aim to support individuals facing this diagnosis and to reassure them that they are not isolated in their journey. It's important to understand that everything will be alright, and there is still a bright future ahead," she continues. "You won't be leaving this world tomorrow. There could very well be a cure on the horizon; we simply can't predict what lies ahead." "I aim to assist individuals in recognizing the small actions they can take to navigate their daily lives, gradually expanding from those foundations. While it's true that there are unpleasant aspects and challenges involved, it is still possible to lead a fulfilling and joyful life." "There are countless possibilities out there, and I hope that by participating in the marathon, I can inspire others to believe that anything is achievable. In a sense, I'm glad to have this opportunity." "I understand that it may seem absurd, but it truly changes your perspective on life and helps you value it more, ensuring that you align your priorities correctly." Follow Vicky on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the_fitness_mum
Pharmaceutical scarcity in Humla
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image Archive: RSS Kharpunath rural municipality in Humla has been experiencing a significant shortage of medical supplies. For the past month, all local health facilities have struggled to maintain adequate stock of medicines. The healthcare professionals reported that they are unable to supply vital medications to the patients. Even those medications that individuals are entitled to receive at no charge are currently unavailable. In the rural municipality, there are four health posts, a community hospital, a basic health center, and six basic health units. However, individuals who seek assistance at these facilities often leave without any help. Dalsur Pariyar, a resident of Raya village, reported that he was unable to obtain medications from the local health posts. Hari Bhakta Shahi, the health coordinator at the local level, reported that the delay in issuing the tender notice for the procurement of essential medications has led to a shortage. As a result, even fundamental medicines such as cetamol, as well as those required for common cold and asthma patients, are currently unavailable. Shahi mentioned that the most recent purchase of Rs 500,000 occurred just prior to the Dashain festival. As a result, the store is now devoid of stock. The acting chief administrative officer of the rural municipality, Bishnu Bahadur Shahi, announced that the next shipment of medicine is expected to arrive during the first week of the Magh month. Due to a shortage of medications, the residents are compelled to seek treatment at the District Hospital in Simkot.
A complete novice committed to running 5 kilometers every day for an entire month and proudly showcased the remarkable results.
Here’s a dose of inspiration to help you stay focused on your New Year’s goals! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A novice YouTuber documented his journey of running 5 kilometers daily for a month and showcased his remarkable physical transformation. We're now two weeks into the start of 2025, which means most of us will already be desperately clinging onto our New Year's resolutions of cutting back on the booze and getting fit. However, if you're struggling to keep yourself motivated in these cold January mornings and are wondering 'What difference will any of these changes make?', here is how one man was able to transform his body in just one month after getting out and running everyday. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Luke completed a daily 5k run for 30 consecutive days (YouTube/Luke Longden). Documenting his journey via YouTube back in 2021, Luke Longden shared what it would be like to take up running as a complete beginner and, spoiler alert, it's not very pleasant. "In the video, he shared, 'It's surprising how out of shape you really are until you begin running and find yourself needing to stop after just a couple of minutes.'" Longden recorded a time of 32 minutes and 58 seconds during his initial run, setting a benchmark for himself to surpass in the upcoming 29 days. Although the struggles of starting out as a runner can be tough (we've all experienced it, and it’s no fun), Longden soon saw a positive shift. The creator managed to make daily progress, even in the face of challenges like leg strain and lower back discomfort. After a month of training, Longden managed to reduce his time by approximately 10 minutes, completing the task in 21 minutes and 40 seconds—an achievement that is quite remarkable. Improved fitness wasn't the only change in which Longden noticed either, with the content creator also shared a series of clips of himself at the beginning and end of the challenge, in which he appeared to look noticeably leaner. Running 5k every day can be beneficial for some people, but it's important to consider individual fitness levels, goals, and overall health. For those who are already accustomed to regular running, it can help improve cardiovascular fitness and endurance. However, for beginners or those prone to injury, daily 5k runs may lead to overuse injuries or burnout. Incorporating rest days, cross-training, and varying workout intensity can help maintain a balanced approach to fitness. Always consult with a healthcare or fitness professional before starting a new exercise regimen. Longden isn't the only person who's felt inspired to take the plunge and start running daily, with various Reddit users claiming to have lost weight and seen health benefits from the practice - but how safe is it to go from a sedentary lifestyle to running 5k everyday? View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Luke's Journey: Running 5K Daily for 30 Days (YouTube/Luke Longden) View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Luke following the challenge (YouTube/Luke Longden) During a conversation regarding the advantages and disadvantages of excessive running, a Reddit user noted that engaging in such a high volume of exercise too rapidly can potentially harm your body. "Yes running is great, but you can't just go from sedentary to running a 5k every day. Trust me, I've tried," they wrote. "It's important to gradually increase your running volume over time. Jumping into high mileage without being properly conditioned can result in extreme soreness and injuries, as your body isn't prepared for the strain." Exercise physiologist Biara Webster told LiveStrong.com: "To decrease the risk of injuries to newbies, I would advise running every second day, alternating your program with strength training, especially of the core and legs if running is your goal, and/or alternative cardiovascular exercises, like swimming or cycling."
Fentanyl has taken the lives of their children, leaving them in a state of desperation for change. Is Trump the answer to their plight?
In October 2020, Susan Ousterman tragically lost her son, Tyler, due to an overdose involving fentanyl, heroin, and xylazine, following years of her relentless efforts to support him in overcoming his struggles. She's not alone. Yearly, over 100,000 people die from drug overdose deaths in the United States, with almost 70% of these deaths caused by fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Throughout the 2024 election, Trump promised to end the fentanyl crisis, pledging to crackdown on illegal immigration and strengthen border control. For many grief-stricken families, his messaging resonated. "Ousterman mentions, 'It presents a straightforward and definitive approach.' He emphasizes this is particularly important at a moment when many other leaders have failed to address the mental health and overdose epidemic, or have neglected to recognize it in their campaign agendas." "Kassandra Frederique, the executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the war on drugs, states, 'Voters are truly frustrated with unfulfilled promises. They are disheartened and yearning for a real change.'" Frederique warns that Trump's strategy might not provide the assistance that some families are anticipating. She contends that his attempts to fortify the southern border during his initial term have "only increased the risks in the area." Experts in drug and public health with whom we consulted concur that it is essential to move away from the politicization of fentanyl use. Instead, they emphasize the importance of redirecting the dialogue toward effective strategies for addressing addiction, a topic that continues to spark significant debate. Although Ousterman views border control as part of the overall issue, she believes that the insufficient access to mental health care and treatment poses a more significant challenge. Other mothers, such as Cara Wykowski, who tragically lost her eldest son Eric to an accidental drug overdose in late 2023, advocate for prioritizing harm reduction in any proposed interventions. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Understanding the Fentanyl Crisis: An Overview Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid drug that is used to relieve pain, often in medical settings under doctor supervision. But in relation to the opioid crisis, people are often referring to street fentanyl – an illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Most illegal fentanyl is shipped from China to Mexico and Canada, and then smuggled across the border into the United States. In some parts of the country, particularly the Northeast and Midwest, fentanyl is mixed into the heroin and counterfeit pill supply. So, not everyone who consumes fentanyl knows they are taking it. In 2022, more than 200 lives were lost every day to fentanyl. Drug overdose deaths decreased by 3% in 2023, marking the first annual decrease since 2018, but states like Alaska, Washington, and Oregon experienced notable increases of at least 27%. The issues of immigration, border security, and the opioid epidemic are becoming increasingly intertwined. Despite Trump's focus on securing the border, studies show that 86.4% of people convicted of fentanyl smuggling are U.S. citizens. Keith Humphreys, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University, says the amount of fentanyl being smuggled into the U.S. is "too small an amount to keep out." Given its high potency, only a small amount of fentanyl is needed to produce an effect. Just 2 milligrams — roughly the size of a few grains of sand — is enough to cause an overdose. All American consumption of illegal fentanyl — estimated to be in the single digit metric tons — could fit on a single truck. Frederique refers to linking drug legislation with border control strategies as an "age-old tactic." "Individuals have mourned the loss of their dear ones. There’s a desire to find someone to hold accountable," she explains. "Currently, the focus is on illegal immigration. Five years back, it was the pharmaceutical executives, wasn’t it? It’s always about the person or group you choose to point fingers at." However, some families that collaborate with the Drug Policy Alliance have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding "the way their loved ones' deaths have become politicized." Wykowski argues that when illegal immigration intersects with the opioid crisis, individuals often overlook the situation as a matter of “systemic failure.” At first, Wykowski had an “abstinence-only” mindset when it came to drug use, but when she learned about harm reduction, she was finally able to give her son the help he would accept. Harm reduction reduces the risks associated with drug use, including overdose and the spread of infectious diseases, by providing free syringe service programs, overdose prevention sites, fentanyl tests, naloxone kits and training and sterile injection or smoking equipment. Wykowski says that policies like California Proposition 36, which passed in November and increases criminal penalties for certain drug offenses, create a “revolving door back to prison." Her son, Eric, had been in county jail numerous times and to prison once while struggling with addiction. "Frederique explains, 'Many individuals fear that reaching out for assistance might lead to being arrested.'" Eric died in San Francisco, where Mayor London Breed said in 2023 that it is easier to access drugs than it is to access treatment. Although the city added about 400 treatment beds from 2021-2024, the Department of Public Health estimated that during the second half of 2023, 15-20% of its short-term residential mental health beds went unused due to staffing shortages. “I recall a time when we were looking for mental health services. The wait for an appointment was around 12 weeks,” Wykowski shares. “Eventually, you start to lose hope and just carry on. Instead, you turn to self-medication.” After successfully locating a treatment center, Eric managed to decrease his fentanyl consumption over the course of three months. He was employed full-time as a plumber's apprentice and lived in a sober-living facility in Pasadena when he suffered an overdose during his first trip home for Thanksgiving. “It was even more painful since he had reclaimed his life,” Wykowski explains. “I recognize the untapped potential. We need to address this as a medical issue and put an end to the stigma.” She emphasizes that the root causes of drug use must be tackled, including the need for housing, broader treatment options, and improved access to mental health services. “Punitive measures are ineffective. Shouldn’t we focus on treating individuals and restoring their dignity, helping them avoid turning to these substances? That’s where I believe increased funding should be directed.” View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Studies show that harm reduction is effective. Dr. Kimberly Sue, an assistant professor at the Yale University School of Medicine in the Addiction Medicine Program, has witnessed numerous patients succumb to opioid overdoses. Sue states that it’s much simpler to blame alleged mules than to examine the underlying public policies. Currently, 80% of U.S. counties do not have access to methadone treatment, according to Sue. Methadone is administered through opioid treatment programs called OTPs, many of which have extensive waiting lists. Patients may have to travel one or two hours to reach a clinic, and that medication has to be taken in front of a nurse or doctor every day. The drug, however, is lifesaving and can help individuals sustain recovery. Working as a long-acting full opioid agonist, methadone reduces opioid craving and withdrawal. Expanding access could transform the treatment landscape. Sue elaborates, “In the case of a heart attack, my first step would be to prescribe you six new medications, which you would likely need to continue for the remainder of your life. Similarly, if you were to experience an opioid overdose, I would initiate treatment with methadone to significantly reduce your risk of a repeat incident, possibly for life. This is a straightforward decision. However, the stigma associated with these medications complicates matters for both me and my patients, making acceptance of the treatment challenging.” The bipartisan Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access (MOTA) Act, which was introduced in 2023 but has yet to pass, would allow addiction medicine doctors like Sue to prescribe methadone in a regular clinic, where patients could pick it up at a regular pharmacy. Do harm reduction programs also help reduce fentanyl usage? Frederique notes that whenever a healthcare intervention is presented, it provides individuals with a chance to choose to discontinue. Most syringe service programs (SSPs), which provide sterile injection equipment, offer referrals to medication-assisted treatment; new SSP users are five times more likely to enter treatment, and three times more likely to stop using drugs than those who don’t use the program, according to the CDC. Frederique is of the opinion that the discussion should shift focus from supply to demand. "Individuals are facing significant challenges and often struggle to find alternative coping mechanisms," she remarks. "What can we do to prevent them from descending into a state of hardship?" No parent should ever have to experience the heartbreak of losing a child to an overdose. While Trump has previously shown support for public health initiatives, it is yet unclear whether his position has shifted. Potential cuts to Medicaid — "the backbone of treatment in a lot of our states," according to Humphreys — could pose a greater risk to limiting access to harm reduction and treatment. Nine states have trigger laws that would automatically end their Medicaid expansions if federal funding falls below 90% (80% for Arizona), putting approximately 3.7 million adults at risk of losing their health coverage. Losing a child is an incredibly challenging experience, Wykowski remarks, as it fundamentally contradicts the natural progression of life. “However, when you experience the loss of a child due to substance use,” she shares, “the depth of your grief often feels diminished or overlooked, as it's a topic many prefer to avoid.” View pictures in App save up to 80% data. "Ousterman warns that if we do not tackle the pervasive disenfranchised grief stemming from these tragic losses, America may soon face a new epidemic. He emphasizes that effective leadership must recognize the shortcomings of our current approach, focus on preserving lives, update existing systems, and restore faith in government institutions in order to significantly alleviate the sorrow experienced by many Americans today."