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The CDC recently reported on evidence that Chagas disease (or “kissing bug” disease) may be endemic to the United States. A disease is endemic to a location when it is consistently present and spreads at a predictable rate. Kissing bug disease is caused by a parasite found in triatomine bugs (kissing bugs). The disease is spread through bites or contact with kissing bug feces. The bugs live in southern states, including two species in Missouri. Local transmission rates are unknown but likely low, with an estimated 0-10% of the US population getting the disease locally. We are still learning about how this disease is transmitted in the US.
WHAT WE KNOW
Chagas disease is most common in Mexico and parts of Central and South America, but there is evidence that it has been present in the United States since prehistoric times.
Human blood has been found in kissing bugs near houses in the United States, but more research is needed to determine how common this is.
In 2020, a person in Missouri tested positive. The person did not report any symptoms and was notified of the infection after donating blood. Blood is tested for chagas disease and other infections before entering the blood supply.
Early symptoms of Chagas disease are mild, or don’t show up at all. Symptoms are similar to a mild flu-like illness with a fever, body aches, and fatigue. During later stages of the disease, about 20% - 30% of people develop serious symptoms including heart issues and major digestive problems.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning how and if the distribution of Chagas disease could change with warming annual temperatures.
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The CDC recently reported on evidence that Chagas disease (or “kissing bug” disease) may be endemic to the United States. A disease is endemic to a location when it is consistently present and spreads at a predictable rate. Kissing bug disease is caused by a parasite found in triatomine bugs (kissing bugs). The disease is spread through bites or contact with kissing bug feces. The bugs live in southern states, including two species in Missouri. Local transmission rates are unknown but likely low, with an estimated 0-10% of the US population getting the disease locally. We are still learning about how this disease is transmitted in the US.
WHAT WE KNOW
Chagas disease is most common in Mexico and parts of Central and South America, but there is evidence that it has been present in the United States since prehistoric times.
Human blood has been found in kissing bugs near houses in the United States, but more research is needed to determine how common this is.
In 2020, a person in Missouri tested positive. The person did not report any symptoms and was notified of the infection after donating blood. Blood is tested for chagas disease and other infections before entering the blood supply.
Early symptoms of Chagas disease are mild, or don’t show up at all. Symptoms are similar to a mild flu-like illness with a fever, body aches, and fatigue. During later stages of the disease, about 20% - 30% of people develop serious symptoms including heart issues and major digestive problems.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning how and if the distribution of Chagas disease could change with warming annual temperatures.
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Current science suggests this claim is true
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A study published in Nature Medicine suggests that people at high genetic risk of Alzheimer's who followed a Mediterranean diet were less likely to develop the disease. Researchers analyzed 34 years of existing data from 4,215 women. Data included genetic tests, blood samples, and diet questionnaires. In this study, women at a higher genetic risk of Alzheimer's were less likely to develop it if their diet was higher in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lower in red and processed meats. They also had slower rates of cognitive decline. These findings were replicated in a dataset of 1,490 men.
WHAT WE KNOW
Alzheimer’s disease is highly genetic. Having one or two copies of the APOE (apolipoprotein E) gene increases a person’s risk. Those with one copy of this gene are 3 to 4 times more likely to get Alzheimer’s, and people with two copies are 12 times more likely.
This study found that following a Mediterranean diet decreased a person’s Alzheimer’s risk. The Mediterranean diet’s protective effects were stronger for those with the APOE gene, especially those with two copies of the APOE gene, who have a higher genetic risk of the disease.
There is strong evidence from multiple studies that a diet higher in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lower in red meat and processed meats could help prevent cognitive decline.
UNKNOWNS
This study was done with people of European descent. More research is needed that includes other racial groups.
Future studies are needed to confirm this study’s findings and address questions that were unanswered by this study.
We are still learning about how a Mediterranean diet could decrease the risk of dementia.
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A study published in Nature Medicine suggests that people at high genetic risk of Alzheimer's who followed a Mediterranean diet were less likely to develop the disease. Researchers analyzed 34 years of existing data from 4,215 women. Data included genetic tests, blood samples, and diet questionnaires. In this study, women at a higher genetic risk of Alzheimer's were less likely to develop it if their diet was higher in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lower in red and processed meats. They also had slower rates of cognitive decline. These findings were replicated in a dataset of 1,490 men.
WHAT WE KNOW
Alzheimer’s disease is highly genetic. Having one or two copies of the APOE (apolipoprotein E) gene increases a person’s risk. Those with one copy of this gene are 3 to 4 times more likely to get Alzheimer’s, and people with two copies are 12 times more likely.
This study found that following a Mediterranean diet decreased a person’s Alzheimer’s risk. The Mediterranean diet’s protective effects were stronger for those with the APOE gene, especially those with two copies of the APOE gene, who have a higher genetic risk of the disease.
There is strong evidence from multiple studies that a diet higher in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lower in red meat and processed meats could help prevent cognitive decline.
UNKNOWNS
This study was done with people of European descent. More research is needed that includes other racial groups.
Future studies are needed to confirm this study’s findings and address questions that were unanswered by this study.
We are still learning about how a Mediterranean diet could decrease the risk of dementia.
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During the week of September 19th, St. Louis was under an “orange” air quality alert for five days in a row. Orange means the air is unhealthy for children, older adults, people with asthma, heart or lung conditions, and other sensitive groups. The poor air quality was due to high levels of ground-level ozone, which forms when pollutants from cars and power plants react with sunlight. Ozone levels are more likely to build up on hot days without a lot of wind. People can help reduce ground-level ozone by driving less during the summer months and getting gas before 10 am or after 7 pm on bad ozone days. To check local air quality, visit airnow.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
Poor air quality increases stress on the body and can trigger heart and lung conditions.
Staying indoors with windows closed and using a HEPA filter can help reduce the amount of air pollution inside the home.
Air quality has gotten worse both in St. Louis and nationally over the past several years.
Gas fumes are released around gas pumps when filling up vehicles. These fumes react with heat and sunlight to form ozone, harming air quality. This is why getting gas before 10 am or after 7 pm can help reduce ozone levels.
UNKNOWNS
Researchers are still learning why air pollution, including ground-level ozone, has been worsening. It is likely due to a variety of factors including warmer yearly temperatures.
Rural Missouri does not have as many air quality monitoring stations as St. Louis. This means that we don’t have a good understanding of air quality in many parts of the state.
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During the week of September 19th, St. Louis was under an “orange” air quality alert for five days in a row. Orange means the air is unhealthy for children, older adults, people with asthma, heart or lung conditions, and other sensitive groups. The poor air quality was due to high levels of ground-level ozone, which forms when pollutants from cars and power plants react with sunlight. Ozone levels are more likely to build up on hot days without a lot of wind. People can help reduce ground-level ozone by driving less during the summer months and getting gas before 10 am or after 7 pm on bad ozone days. To check local air quality, visit airnow.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
Poor air quality increases stress on the body and can trigger heart and lung conditions.
Staying indoors with windows closed and using a HEPA filter can help reduce the amount of air pollution inside the home.
Air quality has gotten worse both in St. Louis and nationally over the past several years.
Gas fumes are released around gas pumps when filling up vehicles. These fumes react with heat and sunlight to form ozone, harming air quality. This is why getting gas before 10 am or after 7 pm can help reduce ozone levels.
UNKNOWNS
Researchers are still learning why air pollution, including ground-level ozone, has been worsening. It is likely due to a variety of factors including warmer yearly temperatures.
Rural Missouri does not have as many air quality monitoring stations as St. Louis. This means that we don’t have a good understanding of air quality in many parts of the state.
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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Tooth decay can impact nutrition and sleep in children, and lead to other infections. Dentists are trained to spot the early signs of tooth decay in infants. The American Dental Association recommends infants be seen by a dentist as soon as their first tooth comes in or by age 1. Getting dental care may be harder for some families because of cost or insurance. Your pediatrician can help find a dentist that accepts your insurance, and Missouri Medicaid covers dental care for children.
WHAT WE KNOW
Dental health impacts more than teeth. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to larger health problems and infections if left untreated.
Early dental visits can help parents learn to care for children’s teeth, which are different from adult teeth. For example, dentists can educate parents about the correct amount of toothpaste to use, how to brush a child's teeth, and which foods or drinks to limit or avoid before bedtime.
Dental care for adults is not covered by Medicaid for adults in Missouri, but Medicaid does cover dental care for kids.
UNKNOWNS
It can be hard to find a dentist that accepts Medicaid for children, talk to your pediatrician or call 211 to help find a dentist that accepts your insurance.
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Tooth decay can impact nutrition and sleep in children, and lead to other infections. Dentists are trained to spot the early signs of tooth decay in infants. The American Dental Association recommends infants be seen by a dentist as soon as their first tooth comes in or by age 1. Getting dental care may be harder for some families because of cost or insurance. Your pediatrician can help find a dentist that accepts your insurance, and Missouri Medicaid covers dental care for children.
WHAT WE KNOW
Dental health impacts more than teeth. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to larger health problems and infections if left untreated.
Early dental visits can help parents learn to care for children’s teeth, which are different from adult teeth. For example, dentists can educate parents about the correct amount of toothpaste to use, how to brush a child's teeth, and which foods or drinks to limit or avoid before bedtime.
Dental care for adults is not covered by Medicaid for adults in Missouri, but Medicaid does cover dental care for kids.
UNKNOWNS
It can be hard to find a dentist that accepts Medicaid for children, talk to your pediatrician or call 211 to help find a dentist that accepts your insurance.
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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The infant mortality rate captures the number of babies who die before their first birthday. These rates have generally declined nationally for decades. They increased from 2021-2022, then fell again in 2024, but the rates differ by location and race. In 2023, Missouri ranked 31st of 50 in infant mortality, and the rate for Black babies was over double the rate for white babies. Research shows that lack of access to adequate pre-birth and post-birth care, racism, inadequate health insurance coverage, and state policies contribute to these geographic and racial differences.
WHAT WE KNOW
Racial gaps in infant mortality have persisted despite improvements in medical care. These differences persist even when factors like income and education are controlled for, pointing to racism as an underlying cause.
Structural policy changes at state and local levels will likely be needed to address these differences in infant mortality rates.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning how recent policy changes may impact infant mortality.
SOURCE
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The infant mortality rate captures the number of babies who die before their first birthday. These rates have generally declined nationally for decades. They increased from 2021-2022, then fell again in 2024, but the rates differ by location and race. In 2023, Missouri ranked 31st of 50 in infant mortality, and the rate for Black babies was over double the rate for white babies. Research shows that lack of access to adequate pre-birth and post-birth care, racism, inadequate health insurance coverage, and state policies contribute to these geographic and racial differences.
WHAT WE KNOW
Racial gaps in infant mortality have persisted despite improvements in medical care. These differences persist even when factors like income and education are controlled for, pointing to racism as an underlying cause.
Structural policy changes at state and local levels will likely be needed to address these differences in infant mortality rates.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning how recent policy changes may impact infant mortality.
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On August 22nd the FDA began recalling shrimp due to possible contamination with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137. A low level of Cs-137 was detected in a shipment of shrimp from an Indonesia-based supplier. The contaminated shipment did not make it to store shelves; however, the FDA has recalled shrimp from that supplier. Affected products include the Walmart “Great Value” frozen raw shrimp, “Aquastar” refrigerated cocktail shrimp, and “Kroger Mercado” frozen cooked shrimp. Low-dose radiation exposure can cause DNA damage over time, increasing cancer risk. Recalled shrimp should be thrown away or returned for a refund. Visit FDA.gov for updates and a full list of recalled products.
WHAT WE KNOW
The US Border Control and Protection first detected radioactive contamination in shipping containers at ports in Los Angeles, Savannah, Houston, and Miami. Border control contacted the FDA, who conducted testing of the shrimp and found Cs-137 in a single sample.
Cs-137 is typically found at much lower levels in shrimp from the Pacific Ocean. Cs-137 is present in the environment at very low levels from nuclear testing that occurred in the 1950s and 1960s. This does not explain the levels found in the recalled shrimp.
The health risk remains low, and the level detected in the shrimp was far below the FDA’s level that would require health protections.
UNKNOWNS
It is not clear how the shipping containers for the shrimp became contaminated as of 9/5/25. The FDA is conducting an investigation.
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On August 22nd the FDA began recalling shrimp due to possible contamination with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137. A low level of Cs-137 was detected in a shipment of shrimp from an Indonesia-based supplier. The contaminated shipment did not make it to store shelves; however, the FDA has recalled shrimp from that supplier. Affected products include the Walmart “Great Value” frozen raw shrimp, “Aquastar” refrigerated cocktail shrimp, and “Kroger Mercado” frozen cooked shrimp. Low-dose radiation exposure can cause DNA damage over time, increasing cancer risk. Recalled shrimp should be thrown away or returned for a refund. Visit FDA.gov for updates and a full list of recalled products.
WHAT WE KNOW
The US Border Control and Protection first detected radioactive contamination in shipping containers at ports in Los Angeles, Savannah, Houston, and Miami. Border control contacted the FDA, who conducted testing of the shrimp and found Cs-137 in a single sample.
Cs-137 is typically found at much lower levels in shrimp from the Pacific Ocean. Cs-137 is present in the environment at very low levels from nuclear testing that occurred in the 1950s and 1960s. This does not explain the levels found in the recalled shrimp.
The health risk remains low, and the level detected in the shrimp was far below the FDA’s level that would require health protections.
UNKNOWNS
It is not clear how the shipping containers for the shrimp became contaminated as of 9/5/25. The FDA is conducting an investigation.
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The CDC recently reported on evidence that Chagas disease (or “kissing bug” disease) may be endemic to the United States. A disease is endemic to a location when it is consistently present and spreads at a predictable rate. Kissing bug disease is caused by a parasite found in triatomine bugs (kissing bugs). The disease is spread through bites or contact with kissing bug feces. The bugs live in southern states, including two species in Missouri. Local transmission rates are unknown but likely low, with an estimated 0-10% of the US population getting the disease locally. We are still learning about how this disease is transmitted in the US.
WHAT WE KNOW
Chagas disease is most common in Mexico and parts of Central and South America, but there is evidence that it has been present in the United States since prehistoric times.
Human blood has been found in kissing bugs near houses in the United States, but more research is needed to determine how common this is.
In 2020, a person in Missouri tested positive. The person did not report any symptoms and was notified of the infection after donating blood. Blood is tested for chagas disease and other infections before entering the blood supply.
Early symptoms of Chagas disease are mild, or don’t show up at all. Symptoms are similar to a mild flu-like illness with a fever, body aches, and fatigue. During later stages of the disease, about 20% - 30% of people develop serious symptoms including heart issues and major digestive problems.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning how and if the distribution of Chagas disease could change with warming annual temperatures.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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A study published in Nature Medicine suggests that people at high genetic risk of Alzheimer's who followed a Mediterranean diet were less likely to develop the disease. Researchers analyzed 34 years of existing data from 4,215 women. Data included genetic tests, blood samples, and diet questionnaires. In this study, women at a higher genetic risk of Alzheimer's were less likely to develop it if their diet was higher in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lower in red and processed meats. They also had slower rates of cognitive decline. These findings were replicated in a dataset of 1,490 men.
WHAT WE KNOW
Alzheimer’s disease is highly genetic. Having one or two copies of the APOE (apolipoprotein E) gene increases a person’s risk. Those with one copy of this gene are 3 to 4 times more likely to get Alzheimer’s, and people with two copies are 12 times more likely.
This study found that following a Mediterranean diet decreased a person’s Alzheimer’s risk. The Mediterranean diet’s protective effects were stronger for those with the APOE gene, especially those with two copies of the APOE gene, who have a higher genetic risk of the disease.
There is strong evidence from multiple studies that a diet higher in vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lower in red meat and processed meats could help prevent cognitive decline.
UNKNOWNS
This study was done with people of European descent. More research is needed that includes other racial groups.
Future studies are needed to confirm this study’s findings and address questions that were unanswered by this study.
We are still learning about how a Mediterranean diet could decrease the risk of dementia.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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During the week of September 19th, St. Louis was under an “orange” air quality alert for five days in a row. Orange means the air is unhealthy for children, older adults, people with asthma, heart or lung conditions, and other sensitive groups. The poor air quality was due to high levels of ground-level ozone, which forms when pollutants from cars and power plants react with sunlight. Ozone levels are more likely to build up on hot days without a lot of wind. People can help reduce ground-level ozone by driving less during the summer months and getting gas before 10 am or after 7 pm on bad ozone days. To check local air quality, visit airnow.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
Poor air quality increases stress on the body and can trigger heart and lung conditions.
Staying indoors with windows closed and using a HEPA filter can help reduce the amount of air pollution inside the home.
Air quality has gotten worse both in St. Louis and nationally over the past several years.
Gas fumes are released around gas pumps when filling up vehicles. These fumes react with heat and sunlight to form ozone, harming air quality. This is why getting gas before 10 am or after 7 pm can help reduce ozone levels.
UNKNOWNS
Researchers are still learning why air pollution, including ground-level ozone, has been worsening. It is likely due to a variety of factors including warmer yearly temperatures.
Rural Missouri does not have as many air quality monitoring stations as St. Louis. This means that we don’t have a good understanding of air quality in many parts of the state.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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Tooth decay can impact nutrition and sleep in children, and lead to other infections. Dentists are trained to spot the early signs of tooth decay in infants. The American Dental Association recommends infants be seen by a dentist as soon as their first tooth comes in or by age 1. Getting dental care may be harder for some families because of cost or insurance. Your pediatrician can help find a dentist that accepts your insurance, and Missouri Medicaid covers dental care for children.
WHAT WE KNOW
Dental health impacts more than teeth. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to larger health problems and infections if left untreated.
Early dental visits can help parents learn to care for children’s teeth, which are different from adult teeth. For example, dentists can educate parents about the correct amount of toothpaste to use, how to brush a child's teeth, and which foods or drinks to limit or avoid before bedtime.
Dental care for adults is not covered by Medicaid for adults in Missouri, but Medicaid does cover dental care for kids.
UNKNOWNS
It can be hard to find a dentist that accepts Medicaid for children, talk to your pediatrician or call 211 to help find a dentist that accepts your insurance.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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The infant mortality rate captures the number of babies who die before their first birthday. These rates have generally declined nationally for decades. They increased from 2021-2022, then fell again in 2024, but the rates differ by location and race. In 2023, Missouri ranked 31st of 50 in infant mortality, and the rate for Black babies was over double the rate for white babies. Research shows that lack of access to adequate pre-birth and post-birth care, racism, inadequate health insurance coverage, and state policies contribute to these geographic and racial differences.
WHAT WE KNOW
Racial gaps in infant mortality have persisted despite improvements in medical care. These differences persist even when factors like income and education are controlled for, pointing to racism as an underlying cause.
Structural policy changes at state and local levels will likely be needed to address these differences in infant mortality rates.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning how recent policy changes may impact infant mortality.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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On August 22nd the FDA began recalling shrimp due to possible contamination with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137. A low level of Cs-137 was detected in a shipment of shrimp from an Indonesia-based supplier. The contaminated shipment did not make it to store shelves; however, the FDA has recalled shrimp from that supplier. Affected products include the Walmart “Great Value” frozen raw shrimp, “Aquastar” refrigerated cocktail shrimp, and “Kroger Mercado” frozen cooked shrimp. Low-dose radiation exposure can cause DNA damage over time, increasing cancer risk. Recalled shrimp should be thrown away or returned for a refund. Visit FDA.gov for updates and a full list of recalled products.
WHAT WE KNOW
The US Border Control and Protection first detected radioactive contamination in shipping containers at ports in Los Angeles, Savannah, Houston, and Miami. Border control contacted the FDA, who conducted testing of the shrimp and found Cs-137 in a single sample.
Cs-137 is typically found at much lower levels in shrimp from the Pacific Ocean. Cs-137 is present in the environment at very low levels from nuclear testing that occurred in the 1950s and 1960s. This does not explain the levels found in the recalled shrimp.
The health risk remains low, and the level detected in the shrimp was far below the FDA’s level that would require health protections.
UNKNOWNS
It is not clear how the shipping containers for the shrimp became contaminated as of 9/5/25. The FDA is conducting an investigation.
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heard this concern.
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