The hottest Preventive Care Substack posts right now

The CDC has green-lighted a ninth Covid mRNA shot for those following the official vaccination schedule, totaling nine doses within three years.
The latest shot targets a variant that no longer exists, raising questions about continued vaccinations against obsolete threats.
Pharmaceutical companies may be promoting additional shots under the guise of protection against new variants, despite the variants not being present during the shot's creation.

New US guidelines recommend starting colon cancer screening at age 45 for average-risk individuals.
There are three main methods for colon cancer screening in the US: FIT, sDNA-FIT, and colonoscopy.
Offering multiple screening methods increases screening rates and allows people to choose the test they prefer.

Some studies suggest that asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 may have low viral infectivity, meaning they are less likely to spread the virus.
Having a full-body MRI has benefits like early cancer detection, but it may not always be necessary for everyone and should be evaluated based on individual health considerations.
Ensure to stay informed about current health topics and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance.

Condoms are now covered by the ACA.
There was a stealthy change to include condoms in preventive health care coverage.
The gender imbalance in contraceptive coverage is slowly being addressed.

Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Personalized risk estimates help with the decision to take a statin drug
Understanding tools like the ACC ASCVD risk estimator and coronary calcium scan can inform treatment choices
Engaging in shared decision-making with patients can lead to more informed choices about statin use

Regularly managing your underlying health is crucial to prevent serious health issues.
Prioritize scheduling check-ups, keeping track of symptoms, and seeking medical advice promptly.
Taking small steps like walking, sleeping well, socializing, and triaging medical needs can significantly improve overall health and well-being.

Protecting vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and immunocompromised, is crucial as we navigate the ongoing challenges of the pandemic.
High-risk individuals can take steps to safeguard themselves, like getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing high-grade masks, and utilizing preventive medications.
Efforts like global vaccine equity, recognizing natural immunity, improving ventilation, and increasing access to mental health services are vital for creating a safer, healthier post-pandemic world.

Health is more than just the absence of disease; it's about optimizing overall well-being, treating root causes, and connecting physical and mental health.
Focus on individualized health goals beyond just preventing COVID-19, such as scheduling preventative screenings and prioritizing mental health.
Balancing risks is crucial in medicine and public health, emphasizing the importance of vaccination, booster shots, and wider access to antiviral medications.

Many people are experiencing pandemic fatigue due to the ongoing uncertainty and lack of clear endpoint.
It's important to prioritize both mental and physical health by checking in with a doctor for a tune-up.
Hopeful signs for the future include increasing mask usage, ongoing vaccine development, and improving therapeutics for COVID-19.