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Adobe Stock/IL News ConnectionA new analysis shows how nature loss disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income households in Illinois and across the country. These communities are also more likely to live in polluted areas, which further increases their vulnerability to climate change and poor health outcomes. Experts argue that current policies and conservation practices often worsen these inequities and are calling for community-centered approaches that address systemic racism and ensure equitable access to natural spaces. -
Adobe Stock/Missouri News ServiceNew guidance on cholesterol from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology highlights the importance of early detection and treatment to reduce the risk of heart disease, the nation’s leading cause of death. Experts say prevention is possible with the right mix of habits and care.
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A new AARP report shows family caregivers in Missouri contribute around $17.5 billion in unpaid labor each year. This uncompensated work forms the backbone of the state’s long-term care system, according to the leader of a national nonprofit. -
Do you flush or throw away unused medication? Or, if you looked through your medicine cabinet right now, would it be like a museum of your and your family’s past illnesses? Any of those options are not ideal. The three main dangers of these types of disposal include: negative environmental impact, poisoning, and opening the door to abuse. -
Illinois is considering reforms to the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program. Hospitals say drugmaker restrictions are reducing funding and harming care for vulnerable and rural patients, while critics argue the program is being misused for hospital profit. Lawmakers are considering bills to increase transparency and ensure savings are directed toward lowering costs and improving access for low-income patients. -
A health care expert in Illinois questions whether upcoming changes to how doctors bill for pregnancy-related care will actually expand access to maternal care services. While the update modernizes billing practices for the first time since the mid-1990s, he says deeper financial incentives and policy changes are needed to address the economic challenges driving the growth of OB deserts. -
A report from the Missouri Rural Health Association finds rural veterans face major barriers to health care driven by isolation, provider shortages, and long travel distances. Advocates say this calls for targeted investments in rural health infrastructure and better coordination between the Department of Veterans' Affairs health system and community providers. -
This is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Some people may see eating disorders as phases, fads or lifestyle choices, but they’re actually serious mental disorders which are recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. -
During American Heart Month, the American Heart Association in St. Louis is urging Missourians to learn CPR and keep up with regular heart checkups as part of its 'Nation of Lifesavers' campaign. The association says most cardiac arrests happen at home, making bystander CPR critical. -
A Kansas anti-transgender bill could sharply impact Missouri residents as well. The bill requires people to use bathrooms corresponding to the gender they were assigned at birth. But as advocates point out, the bill isn’t something voters want. -
The full-time position would be created through a House bill introduced Thursday. However, with a state budget crisis, it's unclear if there's money for such a job. -
Walking trails are accessible and inexpensive ways for people to exercise and socialize. One group is also considering other ways these sites can benefit Illinois communities.
