Health

Health
Cities with soda taxes saw sales of sugary drinks fall as prices rose, study finds
Soda taxes are meant to discourage people from drinking too much sugar, which is linked to a host of bad health outcomes. Cities that imposed the taxes saw a 33 percent decrease in the sale of sugary drinks.
Supreme Court allows Idaho abortion ban to be enacted, first such ruling since Dobbs
Idaho’s “Defense of Life Act” would would make it a crime for “every person who performs or attempts to perform an abortion,” even when the woman’s health is greatly endangered.
FDA approves Florida's plan to import cheaper drugs from Canada
The Food and Drug Administration’s authorization of Florida’s plan to import prescription medicines from Canada is a first. But the state still has hurdles to clear before imports could begin.
Coming soon to Minnesota roadways: Oral tests for marijuana, other drug use by drivers
The oral fluid test tools are set to be rolled out this month as part of a pilot project. Initial roadside tests will be able to detect THC, cocaine, opioids, amphetamine, methamphetamine and benzodiazepines.
Lawmaker: Raise fertilizer fees to help pay cost of nitrate pollution
DFL Rep. Rick Hansen says farmers should pay higher fees for nitrogen fertilizer, the source of the majority of nitrate contamination in southeast Minnesota. Farm groups oppose the idea.
Hearing aids may boost longevity, study finds. But only if used regularly
Roughly 40 million adults in the U.S. have hearing loss, but most don't use hearing aids. This increases the risk of social isolation, physical and cognitive decline and may lead to premature death.
As mental health worries rise for Black Minnesotans, focus shifts to strengthening kids, caregivers
The well-being of young children and their caregivers is closely connected, and children struggle when adults struggle. For Black Minnesota kids and their families, poverty and racism compound those problems. Charting a path forward includes preparing kids for a “harsh world,” one expert says.