Some may be surprised to learn that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S. and that 90 percent of women have one or more risk factors, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). A lack of knowledge, as well as the common misconception that cardiovascular…
Laura Kujubu (former DCA staff writer)
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The flu isn’t just for humans. Dogs can catch the flu from other dogs, and, similar to the human flu, is highly contagious. According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, dog flu—or canine influenza—is spreading throughout the country, including in California. According to a San Francisco Chronicle article…
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Learn more about your consumer rights and ways to make well-informed decisions about your money during National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) March 4–10. Presented by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the week-long campaign is a coordinated effort by federal, state, and local agencies and organizations to provide consumers with information…
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Despite mixed signals from studies, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) recently released guidance about health concerns surrounding cellphone usage and tips on how to reduce your exposure to radio frequency (RF) energy. “Although the science is still evolving, there are concerns among some public health professionals and members…
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Although it’s the end of January, flu season doesn’t show any signs of letting up. The season started early, the whole country is still experiencing widespread flu activity, and it looks like it will continue for a while, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “In the…
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You still have time, but not much. If you want coverage for 2018 under a Covered California health plan, you must enroll by the end date of open enrollment, January 31. Current members seeking to renew and those looking to make changes to their plans must do so by the…
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From making California into a sanctuary state to banning marijuana use while driving, hundreds of new California laws were signed by Governor Brown last year. Here’s a sampling of laws that became effective January 1. Optometrists’ scope of practice: AB 443 alleviates pressure on the health care system and makes…
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Just five days after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the new shingles vaccine Shingrix, an advisory panel to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorsed its use. The CDC panel said Shingrix is much more effective than the previously approved vaccine in protecting protect older…
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A new law that takes effect January 1 gives emergency healthcare providers improved access to patients’ medical records—something that can be crucial during a mental health crisis or when a patient is unable to provide consent. Assembly Bill 1119, signed by Governor Brown in September, addresses the lack of clarity…
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No doubt, we’re inundated with a stream of tragic news—from mass shootings and plane crashes to devastating natural disasters and the next pandemic disease. Although our unfettered access to news and images can be useful and convenient, it can also be detrimental—processing all the bad news can leave one feeling…