American journal of preventive medicine
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There are substantial disparities in breast and cervical cancer screening that stem from lack of health insurance. Although the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expands insurance coverage to many Americans, there are differences in availability of Medicaid coverage across states. ⋯ As women in nonexpansion states remain uninsured and others gain coverage, existing disparities in cancer screening by race and socioeconomic status are likely to widen. Health risks and associated costs to underserved populations must be taken into account in ongoing debates over expansion.
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American Indians in Oklahoma have higher rates of tobacco use (29.2%) than any other racial group in the state. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline provides free cessation services to all Oklahomans and implements strategies specifically aimed at increasing the utilization and effectiveness of cessation services for American Indians. ⋯ The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline is equally effective for American Indian and white tobacco users who register for Helpline services.
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Supply-side reductions to the calories in chain restaurants are a possible benefit of upcoming menu labeling requirements. ⋯ Large chain restaurants significantly reduced the number of calories in newly introduced menu items. Supply-side changes to the calories in chain restaurants may have a significant impact on obesity prevention.
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Health insurance status affects access to preventive services. Effective use of preventive services is a key factor in the reduction of important health concerns and has the potential to enable adults to live longer, healthier lives. ⋯ Generally, uninsured African American and Hispanic populations fare better than uninsured whites in preventive service utilization. Future research should examine reasons behind these racial/ethnic differences to inform policy interventions aiming to increase preventive service utilization among the uninsured.