skip to Main Content

5 Ways The Government Shutdown Could Be Bad For Your Health

Jen Christensen

The government shutdown effects everyone in this country because it means that it is not fulfilling its role in protecting our public health. The government shutdown means that flu fighters were furloughed during one of the worst flu seasons that we have seen in a long time. Other health concerns related to the government shutdown include longer wait times for veterans hoping to get disability, interruption of lifesaving drug discovery, and many others.


Got Your Flu Shot Yet? Consider This A Reminder

Patti Neighmond

A recent review of international research shows that reminders increase the likelihood that adults will get vaccinations, including the flu vaccine. Among the types of reminders looked at–phone calls, texts, email, and post cards–phone calls were most effective. This could be particularly important for ensuring older adults, whose immune systems are weaker, get their flu vaccines.


This blood test may be able to detect 8 types of cancer, study says

Jacqueline Howard and Madison Park

Progress has been made on a blood test, called CancerSEEK, that could possibly detect tumors of the breast, colorectum, ovary, stomach, liver, esophagus, and pancreas. While this test lays the foundation for cancer blood screenings, more work and research is needed before CancerSEEK can be used in a clinical setting. This blood test has a lot of potential, as it is non-evasive, fast, and could cost $500 or less.