American journal of preventive medicine
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Youth experience significant mental health (MH) needs, and gender- and racially/ethnically-diverse youth are less likely than peers to receive care. School-based health centers (SBHCs) are a healthcare delivery model that may decrease disparities. This study examined the role of SBHCs in reducing disparities in MH care receipt among SBHC clients. ⋯ SBHCs may reach youth who are traditionally less likely to seek care in other settings, including racially/ethnically- and gender-diverse youth. As in other settings, engaging males in healthcare is an area for improvement. These findings help to demonstrate the potential of SBHCs for decreasing disparities in mental health care.
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Since 2020, many types of intoxicating cannabis products have entered the U.S. market. Hemp-derived intoxicating cannabis products, including hexahydrocannabinol and delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, pose concerns regarding their youth-oriented marketing, potency, and health effects. Some states have attempted to ban, restrict, or regulate their sale. However, the effectiveness of these laws and their enforcement is unclear. This study provides insights into the retail landscape of intoxicating cannabis products sold across the U.S. ⋯ Taking licensed dispensaries into consideration, intoxicating cannabis products can be purchased in retail stores located in all 50 states; Washington, District of Columbia; and Puerto Rico. Intoxicating cannabis products are widely available in vape shops, even in most states with relevant bans/restrictions. Enhanced laws, surveillance, and enforcement are needed. The 2024 Farm Bill and state laws should explicitly prohibit hemp-derived intoxicating cannabis products.
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Few studies have examined county-level hotspots of veteran suicide and associated place-based contributors, limiting development of targeted community-level prevention strategies. The objectives of this national spatial analysis of all veteran suicides were to identify areas of the United States with higher-than-expected veteran suicide rates and determine county-level social and economic characteristics associated with areas of higher risk. ⋯ This study contributes to a comprehensive public health approach to veteran suicide prevention by identifying where resources are needed most, and which place-based intervention targets have the largest potential for impact. Findings suggest that public health efforts to address suicide among veterans should address community-level firearm access and identify ways to alleviate deleterious effects of social fragmentation.
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People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are highly vulnerable to discrimination and violence, which impact physical and mental health. The study examines past-month discrimination and violence against PEH in Los Angeles County (LAC). ⋯ Study findings highlight the dangers of homelessness in the U.S., particularly for those who are unsheltered outdoors.
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Successful delivery of the virtual Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) is influenced by a beneficiary's access to a computer and use of the Internet. ⋯ Approximately 30% of potentially MDPP-eligible beneficiaries (representing ∼6 million beneficiaries) lacked full digital access. Efforts to encourage enrollment in the virtual MDPP must address digital disparities for beneficiaries at-risk for type 2 diabetes.