health

San Diego County Behavioral Health Services is soliciting community feedback to determine funding priorities for mental health and substance abuse services under the recently passed Behavioral Health Services Act (Proposition 1). The act, approved by voters in March 2024, expands coverage to include substance use disorders, reallocates resources toward housing initiatives, and transfers some prevention funding to the state public health department for specialized populations. County officials are conducting virtual meetings and accepting online input to develop their first integrated plan, which will take effect in July 2026. The community engagement process aims to identify treatment gaps, care barriers, and specific needs across different age groups to ensure resources effectively serve Medi-Cal-eligible residents with serious mental health or substance use challenges.

House Resolution 1, known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" passed by Congressional Republicans, threatens to significantly reduce healthcare access for millions of Californians who purchase individual health insurance. The legislation would cut up to $800 billion from Medicaid funding and eliminate marketplace subsidies that currently make insurance affordable, particularly impacting freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners who don't qualify for employer-based or government coverage. The California Black Health Network hosted a webinar addressing these concerns, where experts warned that over sixteen million people could lose healthcare access due to stricter Medicaid eligibility requirements and unaffordable marketplace premiums. While the situation appears dire, healthcare advocates recommend alternatives including community health centers that offer sliding-scale payment options, medication assistance programs, and appealing coverage denials to help vulnerable Californians maintain access to care.

Leibo Glover's experience with diabetes leading to a below-the-knee amputation highlights a growing health crisis disproportionately affecting lower-income Californians. Research shows diabetes affects 1 in 6 adults with the lowest incomes compared to 1 in 11 with the highest incomes, with amputations more common in low-income ZIP codes. Dr. Bill Releford, a Los Angeles podiatrist, has responded by establishing Bloom Ranch, a 250-acre farm in Acton that serves as part of his preventive care strategy to address these disparities. The ranch aims to increase access to fresh produce in food deserts and potentially develop prescriptive vegetable boxes in partnership with UCLA and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

The California Department of Public Health announced that the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) will continue operating during the federal government shutdown using existing funds. The program, which provides healthy food, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals to approximately 988,000 low-to-moderate income California residents monthly, remains open and is still serving and enrolling eligible families. Following the October 1 shutdown caused by a budget impasse in Washington, the Congressional Black Caucus blamed Republicans and former President Trump for the funding lapse. Both Democrats and Republicans have warned that a prolonged shutdown could deplete critical resources, potentially causing millions of families to lose essential benefits.

The U.S. government shutdown has sparked a heated dispute with the Trump administration accusing Democrats of demanding healthcare for illegal immigrants, which Democrats firmly deny as false. The core of the disagreement centers on Democratic proposals to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies and reverse restrictions to Medicaid that would affect lawfully present immigrants, not undocumented ones. Republicans claim these changes would benefit illegal immigrants, while Democrats and healthcare experts clarify that undocumented immigrants remain ineligible for federal healthcare programs under existing law. The debate has intensified as Senate Democrats rejected a Republican funding proposal due to concerns over healthcare provisions that would impact millions of Americans.

The U.S. Health and Human Services' newly appointed vaccine advisory committee, led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., met in Atlanta to reconsider vaccine recommendations for several diseases. The panel, whose members were all selected by Kennedy after he dismissed the previous committee, declined to recommend COVID-19 vaccines to any specific population groups, suggesting individuals make their own decisions. The committee also recommended new restrictions for the combination vaccine protecting against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox, while postponing a vote on hepatitis B vaccines for newborns. Critics express concern that the panel's composition and decisions could undermine public trust in vaccines, as its recommendations will go to the CDC director and typically become standard practice for doctors and insurers.

Democratic governors in Arizona, Illinois, Maine, and North Carolina have recently signed orders to allow most residents to receive COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies without individual prescriptions, joining a growing trend among states. According to CVS Health, its stores now offer shots without individual prescriptions in 41 states, though nine states plus D.C. still require prescriptions under the company's interpretation of state policies. At least 14 states have announced policies this month to ease vaccine access, with most being led by Democratic governors, while a West Coast alliance of four states plans to make their own vaccine recommendations. Republican-controlled states generally haven't changed vaccine policies recently, though the vaccinations remain available under existing protocols.

Dr. Olumuyiwa Bamgbade, an anesthesiologist who established the Salem Anesthesia Pain Clinic in British Columbia, was acquitted of false sexual assault allegations made by multiple patients after years of legal battles. Despite overwhelming evidence supporting his innocence, including witness testimonies and revelations about the accusers' criminal histories, Dr. Bamgbade faced severe personal and professional consequences due to what he describes as systemic bias in Canada's justice system. The article details how Canadian authorities allegedly mishandled evidence, conducted aggressive police actions against him, and perpetuated media campaigns that damaged his reputation. Dr. Bamgbade, who has worked as a physician across four countries and runs a clinic that serves Medicare patients without out-of-pocket costs, attributes his treatment to racial discrimination against Black professionals in Canada.

The California Black Health Network (CBHN) hosted a legislative briefing on Black maternal health at the California State Museum, highlighting the disproportionate rate of pregnancy-related complications and deaths among Black women. Adjoa Jones, Director of the African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative, shared stories of two Black women who died after childbirth in Southern California, emphasizing these were preventable tragedies. The event featured expert panelists discussing policy solutions to address systemic inequities in healthcare for Black mothers, including legislation like Assembly Bill 2319, which mandates implicit bias training for healthcare providers by June 2025. According to the California Department of Public Health, Black women represent only 5% of pregnancies in the state but account for 21% of pregnancy-related deaths, with Senator Akilah Weber Pierson noting that California loses a mother to pregnancy-related complications every five days.

A comprehensive review published in The Lancet Regional Health—Europe reveals that individuals with mental health disorders face significantly higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks and live 10-20 years less on average than the general population. The study demonstrates a bidirectional relationship where psychiatric conditions like depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety substantially increase heart disease risk, while cardiovascular events can trigger mental health issues. Despite more frequent healthcare interactions, people with mental health disorders receive fewer cardiovascular screenings and treatments, creating a dangerous gap in care. Researchers call for an integrated healthcare approach that addresses both mental and physical health together, identifying exercise as one of the most effective interventions for improving both conditions simultaneously.

The County of San Diego has launched a new Overdose Surveillance Dashboard to help address the opioid crisis by consolidating data on overdose deaths, emergency department visits, and naloxone usage across the region. Developed by County Public Health, this quarterly-updated tool supports the County's Overdose Surveillance and Response program by providing trend analysis and demographic information related to drug overdoses. The dashboard helps officials target resources where needed, such as distributing naloxone and fentanyl test strips in affected areas. These comprehensive efforts have contributed to a 21 percent reduction in overdose deaths from 2023 to 2024, marking the third consecutive year of decline.

The County of San Diego is partnering with the San Diego Foundation on a new initiative called Born Well, aimed at improving birth outcomes for mothers and newborns in high-risk communities. As part of this collaboration, a guaranteed income pilot program will provide $750 monthly payments to 25 expectant mothers for one year, allowing them to address their most immediate needs. This initiative responds to significant disparities in San Diego County, where babies in highest risk groups can be six times more likely to die before their first birthday and 60 percent more likely to be born prematurely than those in the lowest risk group. The County has experience with similar guaranteed income programs, including the Family Income for Empowerment Program and the Recovery Action Fund for Tomorrow (RAFT), which have shown promising preliminary results.

Under Donald Trump's administration, Black Americans and other marginalized groups are facing severe challenges that impact their ability to get proper rest, which research indicates is essential for health and survival. Congressman Bennie Thompson has highlighted specific actions by Trump that directly target Black communities, including dismantling diversity programs and reducing HBCU funding. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has identified a "triple threat" to Black households through cuts to essential programs like food assistance and Medicaid, creating financial stress that contributes to poor sleep. Multiple scientific studies demonstrate that sleep deprivation leads to serious health conditions including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, making this political situation a direct threat to the physical wellbeing of affected communities.

A new McKinsey Institute for Economic Mobility report reveals that improving Black maternal and newborn health could save over 3,100 Black mothers and 35,000 Black infants while generating $25 billion in economic benefits and $385 million in healthcare savings. Despite the United States having poor maternal mortality rates compared to other industrialized nations, with Black women 2-4 times more likely to die in childbirth than white women, most pregnancy-related deaths remain preventable. The report recommends several key changes including better measurement systems, culturally competent healthcare training, addressing chronic conditions, eliminating maternal care deserts, and increasing access to specialized care providers like midwives and doulas. Experts emphasize that addressing structural racism in healthcare systems is crucial to closing the Black maternal health gap.

Tennis legend Serena Williams has joined other public figures in discussing her use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss, revealing she lost 31 pounds since beginning treatment in 2023. These medications, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, have seen surging demand across the United States, with various surveys indicating between 6-12% of U.S. adults have used them for weight loss. While most users report the medications as effective, high costs remain a significant barrier, with monthly prices ranging from $936 to $1,349 before insurance, and medical guidelines typically recommend these drugs for adults with specific BMI thresholds and continued long-term use to maintain results.

Dr. Jeffery Wayne, a Sacramento internal medicine specialist, shared his personal heart attack experience during a California Black Health Network (CBHN) webinar to highlight the importance of clinical trials. Wayne, who has conducted over 300 clinical trials, emphasized that African Americans are significantly underrepresented in clinical trials, with only 8% of research participants being Black compared to 75% white according to a 2020 FDA report. CBHN CEO Rhonda Smith attributed this disparity to individual mistrust based on historical abuses, community-level issues with trial locations, and systemic problems where providers don't present clinical trials as options to patients of color. California's unique Clinical Trial Bill of Rights legislation provides protections for research participants, ensuring informed consent, privacy, and the right to withdraw without penalty.

Olympic champion sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson was arrested last month at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for allegedly assaulting her romantic partner, fellow U.S. sprinter Christian Coleman. Bodycam footage shows Richardson shoving Coleman and throwing headphones at him, though Coleman has declined to press charges against her. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about Black men as victims of intimate partner violence, highlighting that while 45% of Black women report experiencing such violence, a significant 40% of Black men also report domestic violence. Experts explain that structural racism, stigma around masculinity, and mistrust of the legal system often prevent Black men from reporting abuse or pressing charges in these situations.

County public health officials have confirmed the first measles case of the year involving an unimmunized teenager who recently traveled internationally. The infected teen may have exposed others at specific locations and times that were identified by officials. County epidemiologists are now collaborating with Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines Urgent Care and Rady Children's Hospital to identify and follow up with potentially exposed individuals. Health authorities are advising people with measles symptoms to call their doctor before visiting in person to prevent further exposure, while providing information about symptom development and where to find additional resources.

San Diego County Probation has established an Integrated Healthcare Services Unit aimed at enhancing medical and behavioral health services for detained youth and probation clients. The initiative is led by Dr. Lou Gilleran and Michael Kelley, who bring significant healthcare expertise to implement comprehensive health assessments for youth upon booking. This effort coordinates with Justice-Involved CalAIM, a new state program allowing Medi-Cal reimbursement for youth medical care 90 days before release, addressing a critical service gap. The program integrates health assessments into re-entry plans and implements an electronic health record system while maintaining vocational training like music production to support successful community reintegration.

New research suggests that fast walking for just 15 minutes daily can provide significant health benefits comparable to the recommended 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. A study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found participants who fast walked for at least 15 minutes daily experienced a nearly 20% reduction in premature death, compared to only 4% for those who walked slowly for more than three hours daily. The research, led by Dr. Wei Zheng of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, involved approximately 85,000 mostly low-income and Black participants tracked over 16 years. Fast walking offers specific benefits including decreased risk of heart failure, arrhythmias, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive decline.

The National African American Child and Family Research Center (NAACFRC) at Morehouse School of Medicine leads community-engaged research to better serve African American families in programs like Head Start, which has a 30% Black or African American service population. Dr. Azaliah Israel, co-lead for dissemination and communication, explains that the Center aims to change narratives about Black families by conducting research that acknowledges their unique experiences and existing social inequalities rather than using white Americans as the standard. NAACFRC partners directly with parents, teachers, and administrators to understand the needs of African American children and families, with special focus on those in rural areas, families involved with the criminal justice system, and those with health or disability issues. The Center's approach prioritizes elevating the voices of Black families and shifting research frameworks to change societal perceptions.

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that the CA-125 blood test commonly used to detect ovarian cancer may miss cases in Black and Native American patients, potentially contributing to treatment delays and health disparities. The research found that Black and Native American patients were 23% less likely to have elevated CA-125 levels at diagnosis compared to white patients, suggesting current thresholds may be set too high for these populations. Patients with false negative results started chemotherapy an average of nine days later than those with elevated levels. Researchers have proposed new lower thresholds that would work better across all populations, which could lead to guideline changes to ensure equitable cancer detection.

This article does not contain any substantive news content. It appears to be a generic subscription prompt or placeholder text encouraging readers to sign up for news alerts or updates. The single line "Be the first to know about breaking news, articles, and updates" suggests this is promotional text for a news subscription service rather than an actual news article with reportable content.

The recently signed "Big Ugly" legislation will cause health insurance premiums to increase significantly in 2026, with a projected median spike of 15% nationwide according to KFF and the Peterson Center on Healthcare. A key factor driving this increase is the termination of enhanced premium tax credits that currently help over 24 million Americans afford health coverage, resulting in individual premium payments rising by more than 75% on average for subsidy recipients. Additionally, Trump's tariffs on imported goods including pharmaceuticals are compelling insurers to increase premiums beyond medical inflation rates. The impact will disproportionately affect low-income Americans, with insurers warning that as healthier individuals leave the market due to affordability issues, the remaining risk pool will become sicker and more expensive to cover.

The United States is experiencing its most severe measles outbreak in 33 years, with 1,277 confirmed cases across 38 states and Washington D.C., surpassing 2019 figures and marking the largest outbreak since 1992. Officials attribute this surge to declining vaccination rates and travel-related exposures that have spread infections across state lines, putting significant pressure on public health agencies. The Center for Outbreak Response Innovation (CORI), operating within Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, has developed specialized tools, resources, and a Community of Practice to help health departments respond effectively to outbreaks. CORI's comprehensive support includes analytic platforms, risk assessments, decision-support tools, and collaboration networks designed to strengthen outbreak response capabilities at state, tribal, local, and territorial levels.

The newly passed "Big, Beautiful Bill" represents the most substantial rollback of health coverage since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted in 2010, potentially leaving up to 16 million Americans uninsured while increasing the federal deficit by as much as $4 trillion over the next decade. According to Larry Levitt of KFF, this legislation will reduce federal health spending by more than $1 trillion, primarily through cuts to Medicaid and health insurance subsidies. Key provisions include new Medicaid work requirements, which could cause 4.8 million people to lose coverage due to bureaucratic complications, and the removal of eligibility for ACA coverage from many lawfully present immigrants. Yale professor Natasha Sarin warned that these healthcare cuts could result in 100,000-200,000 excess deaths over the next decade, while the bill's tax cuts will disproportionately benefit wealthy households.

A global study of 4,213 adults across 34 populations has determined that increased calorie consumption, rather than decreased energy expenditure, is the primary driver of obesity in economically developed societies. The research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that increased energy intake was approximately ten times more influential than declining energy expenditure in causing the modern obesity crisis. Among African Americans, obesity affects nearly 48 percent of adults, with higher rates among women (56.6%) than men (37.1%), attributed to disparities in housing, income, education, and access to healthy food and safe physical activity spaces. The study also found a positive association between ultra-processed food consumption and body fat percentage, highlighting the public health challenge of regulating food environments while acknowledging the continued importance of physical activity for overall health.

A Trump-appointed federal judge has blocked a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) rule that would have removed medical debt from approximately 15 million Americans' credit reports. Judge Sean Jordan ruled in favor of credit reporting industry groups, finding that the CFPB exceeded its authority under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. The blocked rule, issued in January under the Biden administration, aimed to prevent medical debt from negatively impacting credit scores, recognizing that such debt often results from billing errors, insurance disputes, or unavoidable emergencies. This decision particularly affects Black Americans, who disproportionately carry medical debt, with nearly 20 million U.S. adults owing an estimated $220 billion in total medical debt.

Extreme heat poses significant health risks by challenging the body's natural cooling mechanisms through sweat. When environmental conditions prevent effective cooling, individuals can experience dehydration, heat exhaustion, or potentially fatal heat stroke. Professor Bharat Venkat of UCLA Heat Lab emphasizes that heat impacts all bodily systems, while high humidity worsens these effects by reducing sweat efficiency. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provides heat index guidelines to help people understand danger levels, with temperatures above 103°F (or lower temperatures with high humidity) classified as dangerous for physical activity.

The United States is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in 33 years, with 1,277 confirmed cases across 38 states and DC, surpassing 2019 levels and marking the largest outbreak since 1992. Health officials attribute the surge to declining vaccination rates and travel-related exposures that have spread the disease across state lines. The Center for Outbreak Response Innovation (CORI), operating within the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, has developed specialized tools and resources to help jurisdictions manage outbreaks, including analytic platforms, risk assessments, and decision-support products. Additionally, CORI manages a national Community of Practice connecting various health departments to share experiences and strengthen response capabilities, with the goal of improving preparedness for measles outbreaks through modeling and collaboration.

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals a significant decline in U.S. children's health over the past 17 years, with increasing rates of obesity, chronic diseases, and mental health issues like depression. Researchers analyzed multiple data sources including surveys, electronic health records, and mortality statistics to compile a comprehensive picture of deteriorating childhood health across 170 indicators. While Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has highlighted children's health concerns through his "Make America Healthy Again" initiative, experts argue that the Trump administration's policies, including cuts to health agencies and Medicaid, may worsen rather than improve these trends. The study's lead author, Dr. Christopher Forrest, described children as "canaries in the coal mine," reflecting broader societal health issues.

San Diego County's Vector Control Program is conducting truck-mounted pesticide-mist treatments in the Rolando community from July 9-11 to combat mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile virus on June 24. The treatments will use AquaDuet, an EPA-approved pesticide that poses low risks to humans and pets, and will target approximately 4,000 parcels in both San Diego and La Mesa areas from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. While no human cases have been reported in San Diego County this year, officials urge residents to follow "Prevent, Protect, Report" guidelines, including removing standing water around homes and wearing protective clothing or insect repellent when outdoors. Residents are advised to stay inside with pets and close windows during treatment as a precaution, though normal activities can resume 30 minutes after application.

Mosquitoes in the Rolando neighborhood of San Diego have tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first such occurrence in the county since 2023, alongside four positive tests in dead birds this year. County environmental health officials are reminding residents to follow their "Prevent, Protect, Report" guidelines to reduce the risk of transmission, which includes eliminating standing water that allows mosquitoes to breed. While no human cases have been reported in San Diego County this year, West Nile virus remains a serious health concern as it can cause symptoms ranging from headache and fever to, in rare cases, severe illness or death. The virus primarily affects birds but can be transmitted to humans when certain mosquitoes feed on infected birds and subsequently bite people.

The largest U.S. health insurers have voluntarily agreed to streamline their prior authorization systems, following increased scrutiny after an insurance CEO's fatal shooting in December. Companies including Cigna, Aetna, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare pledged to reduce procedures requiring preapproval, expedite reviews, use clearer communication with patients, and ensure medical professionals review coverage denials. While CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz acknowledged the pledge is not mandatory, he indicated the government would intervene with regulations if insurers don't follow through on these commitments. Health policy analysts remain skeptical about the impact of these changes, noting that much of the prior authorization process remains opaque to patients.

The U.S. has approved lenacapavir, the world's only twice-yearly shot to prevent HIV infection, which showed remarkable effectiveness in clinical trials. Marketed as Yeztugo for prevention, this medication nearly eliminated new infections in high-risk populations and offers a compelling alternative to daily pills that people often forget to take. While experts believe this new option could significantly impact HIV transmission rates, concerns about healthcare system changes and funding cuts threaten its potential reach. The shot's high list price of $28,218 per year, coupled with reductions in public health infrastructure and HIV prevention programs, raises questions about accessibility both domestically and internationally, despite Gilead's plans for generic versions in 120 low-income countries.

Marvellus Lucas is pioneering a unique approach to community health in San Francisco through his "Laugh Off" organization and "Healing Through Laughter" program, which combines comedy performances with wellness workshops. His six to eight week comedy courses teach participants comedy writing, performance skills, and health techniques, culminating in stand-up performances that build confidence and address trauma, particularly for Black community members. Lucas collaborates with mental health professionals, local comedians, and community leaders to expand his reach, while also developing online courses and digital resources to make comedy wellness more accessible. His programs have gained significant popularity, with events outgrowing their original venues and shows extending beyond their scheduled runs due to community demand.

Dr. Waggoner transitioned from traditional family practice to Concierge Medicine after managing thousands of patients for 25 years, seeking to provide more personalized care. Concierge Medicine is a membership-based healthcare model where patients pay monthly or annual fees for enhanced medical services including extended appointments, same-day visits, and direct physician access. While fees typically range from $2,000-$5,000 annually (up to $10,000 in larger markets), Dr. Waggoner practices a hybrid model that incorporates insurance to reduce costs for standard services. Though some medical professionals believe concierge medicine will create a two-tiered healthcare system, others like Dr. Chrisette Dharma are attempting to provide similar personalized care within traditional insurance-based practices.

The article discusses the disproportionate impact of the opioid overdose crisis on Black communities in the United States. While overall overdose deaths have recently declined by 17%, Black and Indigenous populations continue to experience rising rates due to inequitable access to resources like naloxone and the lasting effects of the war on drugs. Kimberly Douglas, who lost her 17-year-old son Bryce to a fentanyl overdose, has become an advocate through her group "Black Moms Against Overdose" to create safe spaces for Black families affected by overdoses. The authors argue that intentional collaboration between governments, health providers, and community leaders is essential to ensure equitable access to overdose prevention resources and information.

The CDC has reported 1,088 measles cases across 33 U.S. jurisdictions as of May 29, 2025, with 14 outbreaks accounting for 90% of confirmed cases. This represents a significant increase compared to 2024, when 285 cases were reported with 16 outbreaks. Measles is described as an extremely contagious airborne illness that can spread rapidly during high travel periods or when unvaccinated individuals are in close proximity. Health officials emphasize that the most effective protection against measles is receiving two doses of the MMR or MMRV vaccine, which provides lifelong immunity for most recipients.

California is facing a severe obesity crisis disproportionately affecting Black and Brown communities, with nearly one-third of adults statewide living with obesity and 36.8% of Black adults affected. Proposed Medi-Cal budget cuts threaten to eliminate coverage for effective GLP-1 medications that not only manage obesity but reduce related health conditions and costs. This decision particularly impacts Black Californians, who represent about 7% of Medi-Cal enrollees but constitute over one million people or approximately 50% of the state's total Black population. The author argues that instead of cutting healthcare access, California should maintain its leadership in health equity by investing in community-driven solutions addressing the root causes of health disparities.

Dr. Jehan El-bayoumi of Georgetown University Medical Center recently discussed with BlackPressUSA the concerning trends in various infectious diseases affecting Americans. The discussion highlighted changes in federal COVID vaccine policies for certain populations alongside increases in measles, COVID, and flu cases early in the year. Medical professionals, including Dr. El-bayoumi, have expressed worry about potential future health threats, with bird flu specifically mentioned as a concern. The conversation with BlackPressUSA addressed these rising illness rates and the broader anxieties present within the medical community.

Research led by Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge at Columbia University suggests that a balanced diet throughout the day can significantly impact sleep quality by supporting melatonin production. Her book "Eat Better, Sleep Better" outlines how foods rich in tryptophan (like legumes, nuts, and seeds) and supporting nutrients (such as zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins) can help regulate sleep cycles more effectively than single foods or supplements. The research indicates that Mediterranean-style diets high in plant foods, whole grains, and healthy proteins correlate with better sleep outcomes and reduced insomnia risk. Experts recommend gradually incorporating sleep-promoting foods into meals rather than restricting certain foods, though those with serious sleep disorders should seek medical treatment alongside dietary improvements.

San Diego County's Behavioral Health Services has received $29.1 million in state funding from California's Department of Health Care Services to expand mental health and substance use treatment services. The funding, approved by voters in March 2024, will create two new facilities: a Substance Use Residential & Treatment Services facility with 73 treatment beds and 16 recuperative care beds, and the region's first Children's Crisis Residential Care facility with 16 beds at the Polinsky Children's Center. Five additional behavioral health providers in San Diego County also received funding, with the combined seven grants expected to add approximately 375 treatment beds and 1,538 treatment slots throughout the region.

With summer approaching in the Northern Hemisphere, the CDC reports concerning statistics about drowning deaths in the United States, which average 11 per day. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, with significant increases in recent years and notable racial disparities in fatality rates. The majority of pediatric drownings (80%) occur in residential settings like backyard pools, often due to inadequate supervision. Water safety experts recommend constant adult supervision near water, proper pool fencing, wearing life jackets when boating, and formal swimming lessons for both children and adults to reduce drowning risks.

Black Maternal Health Week is raising awareness about the alarmingly high death rates among Black pregnant women. Imani's Village, founded in 2020, works to advance infant and maternal health in Oklahoma's Black community through education and doula training. According to the CDC, 50 out of every 100,000 Black women died during pregnancy or childbirth in 2023, compared to just 15 white women. The organization provides free doulas, childbirth educators, and lactation educators to combat misconceptions about Black patients that can lead to dismissal of their medical concerns.

A major new analysis of U.S. mortality data from 1950 to 2019 reveals persistent racial disparities in child mortality, with Black children dying at approximately twice the rate of white children throughout the entire period. The comprehensive study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine by researchers from Harvard, Yale, and other institutions, documented over half a million preventable infant deaths and nearly 690,000 childhood deaths among Black Americans over the seven decades. Despite overall improvements in life expectancy for both racial groups, the mortality gap for infants and children has actually widened since the 1950s, with Black infants in the 2010s dying at a rate of 1,073 per 100,000 compared to 499 per 100,000 for white infants. The researchers attribute these persistent disparities to systemic racism and structural inequities including housing segregation, unequal healthcare access, and socioeconomic disadvantages.