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The Med & Mic™ 01.13.23
MED NEWS blog post from Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
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U.S. Cancer Death Rate Falls
According to a report from the American Cancer Society, the rate of people dying from cancer has had a continual decline over the past three decades. Since 1991, the U.S. cancer death rate has fallen 33% with 3.8 million deaths averted. Improved cancer treatment, less smoking, prevention with vaccines, and increased early detection are thought to have contributed to the decline. The five-year relative survival rate for all cancers combined has increased from 59% in the 1970s to 68% in the 2010s. Cancer types with the highest survival are thyroid, prostate, testis, and melanoma – all 94% or better. The survival rate is lowest for pancreatic cancer at 12%. (Source: CNN, J. Howard, 1.12.23)
Childhood Vaccination Rates Drop
The CDC says immunization rates have dropped among kindergartners during the 2021-22 school year to 93%, down 1% from last year, and down 2% from two years ago. These include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella; diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; polio; and chickenpox. The CDC says about 250,000 kindergarteners have not been vaccinated. This could lead to outbreaks among clusters of unprotected kids. An immunization rate of 95% would provide herd immunity, where widespread immunity prevents person-to-person spread. New York has the highest measles immunization rate at 98%. Alaska has the lowest at 78%. During the pandemic, families missed routine doctor visits and school routines were disrupted. Vaccine rates for two-year-olds, however, remain steady. (Source: USA Today, K. Alltucker, 1.12.23)
COVID Weakens
Researchers at Boston University have discovered changes in the Omicron variant to explain why it led to less severe illness. Changes in the spike protein and an alteration in another viral protein allowed the variant to bypass immunity and also made the illness less extreme. This insight could lead to new treatments. (Source: WBUR, D. Becker, 1.12.23)
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.