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Overdose Deaths Drop in NY State
New York experienced a significant decline in overdose fatalities in 2024, with an estimated 80,000 deaths—a 27 percent decrease from the 110,000 reported in 2023. Health experts attribute this downturn to enhanced public health initiatives, increased availability of treatment programs, and broader access to overdose-reversal medications. (Source: The Highlands Current)
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What Parents Should Know About Teen Screen Time and Mental Health
A recent article from MyCentralJersey emphasizes the importance of parents modeling healthy screen habits to mitigate the mental health risks associated with excessive screen time among teenagers. Experts recommend strategies such as setting consistent boundaries, engaging in open conversations about online content, and encouraging screen-free family activities to promote better mental well-being in adolescents. (Source: MyCentralJersey)
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America's Poison Centers Warns Public About Dangers of Pink Cocaine
America's Poison Centers has issued a public warning about the rising threat of "pink cocaine," a synthetic party drug gaining popularity in the U.S., which often contains a mix of dangerous substances like ketamine, MDMA, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Since January 2024, 18 exposures have been reported across four states, with most cases requiring medical treatment and some resulting in life-threatening symptoms or hospitalization. (Source: Patch)
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Jersey City, Bayonne Pharmacies to Pay Large Fines for False Billing
Four pharmacies in Jersey City and Bayonne have agreed to pay substantial fines to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to federal healthcare programs. The settlements address accusations of fraudulent billing practices, underscoring the government's commitment to combating healthcare fraud. (Source: TAPinto)
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How Cuts to the Nation's Main Mental Health Agency Could Impact Americans
The federal government is dissolving the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), integrating it into a new agency amid broader health system restructuring, resulting in the loss of approximately one-third of its staff. This move has raised concerns among lawmakers and healthcare providers about potential disruptions to critical services like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and community-based mental health programs, particularly in underserved rural areas. (Source: NPR)
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