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Hispanic and Latino Young Males With Higher Education, Greater Acculturation Are More Likely to Use E-Cigarettes

A Rutgers researcher leads study that is among the first to characterize the use of electronic cigarettes among people of Hispanic and Latino backgrounds

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A Rutgers researcher leads study that is among the first to characterize the use of electronic cigarettes among people of Hispanic and Latino backgrounds

Newswise — Hispanic and Latino young men with higher levels of education who were born in the United States and speak mostly English at home are more likely to use e-cigarettes, according to a Rutgers researcher.

In a study, published in American Journal of Medicine Open, researchers examined current and former use of e-cigarettes among individuals from six distinct Hispanic and Latino backgrounds.

Electronic cigarettes – also called e-cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) – rose in popularity in 2014 when conventional cigarette use decreased among adults in U.S. However, little is known about e-cigarette use in ethnic minorities who have historically been disproportionately targeted by tobacco marketing and experienced significant tobacco-related health disparities.

While previous research has shown that tobacco use among Hispanic and Latino adults is lower than in non-Hispanic whites, conventional cigarette use is more common among individuals of Puerto Rican and Cuban backgrounds compared with those of Mexican and Central or South American backgrounds. Hispanic and Latino individuals with higher levels of acculturation – being U.S.-born and preferring English – were more likely to use tobacco products.

“ENDS products represent a potential disruptive innovation to traditional tobacco use, with adolescents and young adults experimenting with e-cigarettes,” said Ayana April-Sanders, an instructor at the Rutgers School of Public Health and lead author of the study. “This experimentation is a risk factor for progression to combustible cigarette smoking and nicotine-dependence, which could lead to a ‘tipping point’ phenomenon, where future generations experience a higher prevalence of nicotine dependence and tobacco-related disease compared with previous generations.”

The study, which is among the first to characterize e-cigarette use among people of Hispanic and Latino backgrounds, analyzed data from 11,275 adult participants of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos for current, former and ever use of ENDS products.

The researchers found 2 percent of adults surveyed were current ENDS users, while about 10 percent were former ENDS users. They also found that individuals of Puerto Rican and Mexican backgrounds were more likely to try ENDS than those of Dominican, South American, Cuban or Central American backgrounds.

Among Hispanic and Latino adults, researchers found a high use of ENDS among those under 45 years of age. Additionally, they found that young adults who had never smoked conventional cigarettes were using e-cigarettes, suggesting that ENDS may promote cigarette smoking and increase health risks from chronic exposure to toxic substances in ENDS products.

“Our findings could inform preventive and regulatory interventions targeted at Hispanic and Latino communities to protect public health,” said April-Sanders. “Public health messaging efforts should consider targeting greater acculturated younger Hispanic and Latino individuals and creating bilingual messaging efforts that may be more appropriate for less acculturated, older people.”

April-Sanders said future research needs to examine why non-tobacco users are turning to e-cigarettes and monitor ENDS use.

Collaborators of the study include individuals from the Department of Medicine and the Department of Epidemiology and Population Health at Albert Einstein College of Medicine; the Institute for Minority Health Research at the University of Illinois College of Medicine; the Department of Social Medicine at the University of North Carolina; the Public Health Sciences Division at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease; Department of Preventive Medicine in the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University; the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine in the Department of Medicine, Diabetes and Obesity Center at the Institute of Molecular Cardiology at the University of Louisville; and the American Heart Association.  The research was conducted as a collaborative study supported by contracts from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to the University of North Carolina (N01‐HC65233), University of Miami (N01‐HC65234), Albert Einstein College of Medicine (N01‐HC65235), Northwestern University (N01‐HC65236), and San Diego State University (N01‐HC652237). Ayana K. April-Sanders, PhD is supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (5T32HL144456–03). Thanh-Huyen T. Vu, MD. PhD was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (R03HL144902). Carlos J. Rodriguez, MD, MPH is supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (R01 HL04199, 75N92019D00011, 1U01HL146204–01, 5R01HL144707) and the American Heart Association (5P50HL120163–04).

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667036422000243?via%3Dihub

Source: Rutgers University-New Brunswick

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Community Fundraiser Hosted by CFC in Support of Infertility Awareness Week

Canadian Fertility Consulting and Fertility Matters Canada Unite for Virtual Paint Night Fundraiser

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TORONTO (Newswire.com) – Canadian Fertility Consulting is proud to announce a Virtual Paint Night Fundraiser in support of Infertility Awareness Week, scheduled for April 28, 2024. This event aims to raise awareness about infertility issues while supporting Fertility Matters Canada, a national charity dedicated to assisting those struggling with fertility challenges.

The virtual paint night will be led by the talented Jenny Hughes of Oceanside Art Studios, offering participants the opportunity to unleash their creativity while supporting a meaningful cause. Taking part is simple – join from the comfort of your home via Microsoft Teams, and we will provide all the necessary paint materials, conveniently shipped directly to your door.

“We are thrilled to host this virtual paint night fundraiser to support Infertility Awareness Week and Fertility Matters Canada,” said Janet Harbick, Administrative Specialist at Canadian Fertility Consulting. “It’s an opportunity for our community to come together, express themselves artistically, and raise vital funds for a cause that impacts so many lives.”

Participants are encouraged to register by April 12, 2024, to ensure timely delivery of the paint supplies. Registration and payment are required to secure your spot in this event.

The theme for the evening is to paint a beautiful hatching embryo, with each participant adding their own unique interpretation. No prior painting experience is necessary, as guidance will be provided throughout the virtual session.

Infertility affects one in six Canadians, leading many to explore alternative paths to parenthood. Statistics show that 40% of infertility cases are attributed to female factors, 30% to male factors, and 30% to joint infertility or remain unexplained. Additionally, various factors such as sexual orientation, genetic diseases, gynecological issues, and career considerations contribute to the complexity of infertility challenges faced by individuals and couples across every demographic and economic group.

Canadian Fertility Consulting is Canada’s largest surrogacy and egg donation agency, committed to assisting couples and individuals in their journey to parenthood. With a mission to build families with love, we provide guidance and support throughout the process of exploring alternative methods of family building.

Join us for a night of creativity and compassion as we come together to support Infertility Awareness Week and Fertility Matters Canada. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by infertility.

For more information and to register for the Virtual Paint Night Fundraiser, visit Paint Night Event Registration.

About Canadian Fertility Consulting:

Canadian Fertility Consulting is Canada’s largest surrogacy and egg donation agency, dedicated to helping couples and individuals navigate the challenges of infertility. With a focus on compassion and support, we assist in building families through surrogacy and egg donation arrangements.

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World Health Day 2020: Celebrating Nurses and Midwives in Healthcare

World Health Day: Celebrating nurses and midwives, the backbone of healthcare. #HealthcareHeroes #WorldHealthDay2020

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Today isWorld Health Day, an annual event that takes place on April 7th, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). This day serves as a platform to highlight various health issues and set the tone for future developments in the global wellness and medical world. From mental health to insurance and everything in between, World Health Day tackles it all.

Let’s delve into the history of this significant day. The creation of the World Health Organization marked a turning point in international health efforts. In December 1945, officials from Brazil and China proposed the establishment of a comprehensive and independent international health organization. Half a year later, in July 1946, the WHO Constitution was approved in New York. On April 7, 1948, this constitution entered into force with 61 countries signing an agreement to inaugurate the NGO.

World Health Day: Celebrating nurses and midwives, the backbone of healthcare. #HealthcareHeroes #WorldHealthDay2020

Among the early initiatives of WHO was the introduction of World Health Day. Originally observed on July 22, 1949, the date was later changed to April 7, coinciding with the establishment of WHO, in order to encourage student participation. Since 1950, each World Health Day has been assigned a different theme, chosen by the WHO Director-General in consultation with member governments and staff.

World Health Day offers a globally significant opportunity to draw attention to crucial public health issues that impact communities worldwide. On this day, various promotional programs are launched that extend far beyond April 7th, raising awareness and fostering positive change.

This year, World Health Day shines a spotlight on the exceptional contributions made by nurses and midwives to the healthcare industry. Nurses and midwives are the devoted and restless workforce that has transformed healthcare as we know it. Their tireless efforts, compassion, and expertise make them the backbone of the healthcare system, providing invaluable care and support to individuals and communities across the globe.

World Health Day 2020 celebrates nurses and midwives by organizing advocacy events worldwide. One of the highlights is the launch of the first-ever State of the World’s Nursing Report. This groundbreaking report will provide critical insights and recommendations to optimize the contributions of the nursing workforce. In 2021, a similar report focusing on the midwifery workforce will follow.

On this World Health Day, let us all join hands in acknowledging and appreciating the vital role played by nurses and midwives in providing healthcare. We owe them our gratitude and support. Take a moment to thank a nurse or midwife who has made a difference in your life or participate in events and discussions that promote their recognition.

Remember, every day is an opportunity to prioritize our health and well-being. Let World Health Day serve as a reminder to embrace healthy living, support those who care for us, and work towards a healthier future.

Stay joyful, stay healthy, and happy World Health Day!

https://nationaltoday.com/world-health-day/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/

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Walk Your Way to Better Health

A walk is not just good for your body, it’s also good for your soul. Physical activity, like walking, is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost your mood for better health.

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(Family Features) A walk is not just good for your body, it’s also good for your soul. Physical activity, like walking, is one of the best ways to reduce stress and boost your mood. However, reports show walking rates are declining steadily in the United States.

On average, 1 out of every 4 U.S. adults sits for longer than eight hours each day, per research from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, which can have negative consequences on physical and mental health. Regular exercise improves mood, boosts energy and can even help you sleep better. Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy.

Consider this advice from the American Heart Association, which has worked for decades to promote policies and strategies that make it easier for communities to get and stay active. One example is National Walking Day on April 3, established by the organization to encourage people to move more throughout the day so they can feel, think, sleep and live better.

Indeed, adding more movement can benefit your body and mind in numerous ways, such as:

Lowering disease risk. Getting the recommended amount of physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate, 75 minutes of vigorous or a combination of those activities per week) is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression, according to the U.S Department of Health and Human Services.

Increasing sunlight exposure. Outdoor exercise is an easy way to get moving and take in the sunlight, which can improve mood, boost immunity and help you get some vitamin D. Spending time outdoors is a no-cost option and has been shown to reduce stress, promote a sense of belonging and improve mood.

Improving cognitive and mental function. Physical activity keeps your mind sharp now and later. Studies show higher fitness levels are linked to better attention, learning, working memory and problem solving. What’s more, a study published in the “British Journal of Sports Medicine” shows people who get the recommended amount of physical activity are less likely to develop depression.

Living longer. Healthy life expectancy can be positively impacted by increasing activity. According to research published in the “American Journal of Epidemiology,” swapping just 30 minutes of sitting with low-intensity physical activity reduced risk of death by 17%.

Get moving to reduce your stress and step into better health. Learn more at heart.org/movemore.

Get Inspired to Get Moving

A little creativity can go a long way to make your walk more fun. You might think of walking as a solo activity, but a companion makes it even more enjoyable. Ask colleagues, friends or family to join you.

A walk is a perfect excuse to take a break from a long day at your desk. If you work remotely, take a conference call on the go or plan your walk as a reward for completing a project.

Use your walk as a guilt-free opportunity to listen to a new audiobook or create a walking soundtrack of your favorite upbeat music.

Mix up your scenery. Taking new routes keeps your walks interesting and helps prevent boredom from traveling the same predictable path.

If you need an extra nudge to get moving, a pet may help you get fit. Dog parents are more likely to reach their fitness goals than those without canine companions. In fact, according to the “Journal of Physical Activity & Health,” dog parents are 34% more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking a week than non-dog owners. Pets can also help lower stress, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar and boost your overall happiness and well-being.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock


SOURCE:
American Heart Association

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/health/

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