Town Square
Three-Year Anniversary of the Pandemic; Plus, the Origins of COVID-19
Posted on · What we’ve learned about the virus and the efforts to roll out the vaccine against all obstacles.
Category: Health & Science
Health & Science
CDC investigating outbreak on Galveston-based cruise ship after 300-plus become ill
Posted on · Nearly 10 percent of the passengers aboard Princess Cruises' Ruby Princess between Feb. 26 and March 5 reported symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. Princess Cruises said the "likely" cause of the gastrointestinal illnesses was norovirus.
Houston Matters
Can bedside manner be too well-mannered?
Posted on · We consider the communication challenges some doctors face when talking with their patients, particularly in discussions about nutrition and obesity.
Texas
Texas Republicans and Democrats coalesce around proposals to expand paid parental leave
Posted on · A measure to establish paid parental leave for state employees is making its way through the Texas Legislature. It’s authored by a Republican and co-authored by several Democrats.
Health & Science
Texas women denied abortions sue the state, saying the bans put them in danger
Posted on · The lawsuit filed on behalf of five patients who said their lives were put at risk and two physicians asks a state judge to clarify exceptions for medical emergencies under Texas law.
Houston Matters
What a price break on insulin means for health care costs
Posted on · Eli Lilly is reducing prices and capping costs on insulin. Could it be the start of a trend lowering some drug prices?
Town Square
Combatting Homelessness in Houston; Plus, the Creators of “Another City” Explain the Opera’s Empathetic Exploration of the Issue
Posted on · The success of current efforts and challenges in ensuring every citizen finds a home.
Health & Science
Regular trips to the dentist could help reduce chronic joint pain, study suggests
Posted on · A new study looked at how heightened levels of bacteria associated with gum disease correlated with patients reporting arthritis flare-ups.
News
Diabetes and obesity are on the rise in young adults, a study says
Posted on · Young Black adults, Mexican Americans and other Hispanic adults experienced the greatest cardiovascular risk factors, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Health & Science
In Texas, Medicaid ends soon after childbirth. Will lawmakers allow more time?
Posted on · In Texas, many uninsured people can access Medicaid if they get pregnant. But 2 months after giving birth, the coverage ends. Advocates say new moms need a full year, to improve maternal health.
Town Square
Neil deGrasse Tyson on Delusions of Space Enthusiasts; Plus, How Pop Culture Has Inspired the Technology We Use Today
Posted on · The astrophysicist explains the limitations of our advances in space.
Houston Matters
Houston seasonal allergies are at an all-time high, but so are indoor allergies. Expert gives tips on treating them.
Posted on · Overall the tree pollen count is over 2,500 per cubic meters of air.
Health & Science
Wastewater monitoring effective in detecting viral outbreaks at schools, study shows
Posted on · The study measured weekly levels of COVID-19 and influenza in wastewater samples and found that wastewater sampling data was reflective of infection rates in schools themselves.
Town Square
The Challenges Facing America’s Health Care System
Posted on · Experts weigh in on health care in the U.S. and what solutions could help solve some of the issues.
Energy & Environment
Residents near the Jones Road Superfund Site call for more testing and quicker cleanup during a community meeting with EPA
Posted on · The Superfund site is a former dry cleaners that contaminated the soil and groundwater by improperly disposing of its hazardous solvents. Those who use private wells near the site could still be at risk of contamination.