Latest news with #advocacy
The Guardian
5 hours ago
- Health
- The Guardian
How did your MP vote on the assisted dying bill?
Final Commons vote to approve the bill to allow some terminally ill people to get help in ending their lives .
CBS News
21 hours ago
- Politics
- CBS News
LGBTQ+ advocates in Massachusetts worried crisis hotline could be shut down by Trump administration
National crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youth could be shut down by Trump administration National crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youth could be shut down by Trump administration National crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ youth could be shut down by Trump administration LGBTQ+ advocates in Massachusetts are concerned that the Trump administration could be discontinuing LGBTQ-specific support for youth on the national 988 suicide hotline. "Suicide prevention is about people, it's not about politics," said Mark Henson, Interim Vice President of Advocacy and Government Affairs for The Trevor Project. The organization is a national suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ+ youth. Moulton: People are going to die Rep. Seth Moulton sponsored the creation of the 988 hotline that includes help for veterans as well as LGBTQ+ youth. He voiced his displeasure on social media saying in part, "That's wrong. It's hateful. People are going to die because of this cut." The Trevor Project piloted and operated the LGBTQ+ section of 988, but now they may lose that federal funding. "We are very concerned that should this federal funding go away. We're still going to provide our services, but the demand can significantly increase," explained Henson. The Trevor Project studies show that 39% of LGBTQ+ young people in Massachusetts considered suicide in the past year, and 11% admitted to attempting suicide. "Nationally, 84% of LGBTQ+ youth said they wanted to access mental health care, but only half of them were able to, and the number one reason why they weren't able to was fear," said Henson. More than 1 million called crisis hotline Since its inception three years ago, Henson said 1.3 million LGBTQ+ children have called the number. "We've been trying to prepare young adults that the future is not going to be friendly, the near future," said Kristen Becker, founder of the program Summer of Sass. WBZ-TV first introduced you to Becker in 2023. Summer of Sass is a program that brings LGBTQ+ kids to Provincetown for the summer to escape situations of unacceptance in other states. "If we can't get behind suicide prevention, it's really mind blowing to me," said Becker. They are now bringing in a counselor who is available on WhatsApp if kids are in crisis. "It's just a real sad day for everyone who cares about mental health at all," said Becker.
News.com.au
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Heigl praised for honest bladder reveal
One of the world's most well known actresses has been praised for throwing her weight behind speaking about a topic that is typically considered 'taboo'.
The Independent
a day ago
- Health
- The Independent
Struggling with UTIs after menopause? Experts say this can make a difference
After menopause, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be more frequent, yet most Canadian women (82 per cent in a recent survey) don't realise the two are associated. At the Sex, Gender and Women's Health Research Hub, our team's advocacy aims to increase awareness and highlight proven strategies to help prevent UTIs for women later in life. Why are UTIs more common after menopause? The main culprit for increased UTIs in menopausal women is the drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary tract tissue health. As estrogen declines, the lining of the urethra — the tube through which urine flows out of the body — becomes thinner and more fragile. Also, there are fewer infection-fighting blood cells in the urinary tract, and mucosal immunity — the specialised immune defences present at the mucosal surfaces lining the urinary tract that include physical and chemical barriers, cellular receptors and antibodies — is reduced. This weakens the local immune response, making it easier for bacteria to cause infections. Additionally, changes in vaginal flora — the bacteria that naturally protect against infections — results in the urinary tract being vulnerable. Other factors can contribute to UTI risk at this stage of life, too. Women whose bladder muscles have weakened with age, or who have developed pelvic organ prolapse, can experience incomplete bladder emptying. This leads to urine retention and an increased chance of bacterial growth. Similarly, if women experience urinary incontinence, the leakage and moisture on incontinence pads or underwear can create an environment where bacteria thrive. And while sexual activity itself does not directly cause UTIs, it can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Signs of a UTI Bacteria in the urine without symptoms are called asymptomatic bacteriuria. It is not a UTI and should not be treated; a UTI is only diagnosed when bacteria and symptoms are both present. The most obvious symptoms include: A new, strong, persistent urge to urinate; A burning sensation while urinating; Frequent urination in small amounts; Pelvic discomfort or pressure. In severe cases, UTIs can lead to kidney infections, so when symptoms include fever, chills and back pain, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. For women in their 80s or older, or sometimes younger women who are living with medical conditions such as dementia, urinary tract infections can manifest as behavioural changes such as confusion, withdrawal or reduced appetite. However, new-onset delirium should always be investigated by a medical team rather than assumed to be a UTI. Evidence-based strategies to prevent UTIs Several medical and lifestyle interventions can make a significant difference: 1. Vaginal estrogen therapy One of the most effective ways to prevent recurrent UTIs in postmenopausal women is vaginal estrogen therapy, which delivers small doses of estrogen directly to the vaginal tissues through creams, tablets or rings. Studies have shown that vaginal estrogen can restore the natural protective barrier of the urinary tract, reducing UTI risk significantly. It can be used by breast cancer survivors as it does not have the same risks associated with menopause hormone therapy (MHT). 2. Non-antibiotic prevention Methenamine hippurate (one gram orally, twice a day) is effective in reducing UTIs by creating an environment that prevents bacterial growth. In Canada, women need to obtain this medication from a compounding pharmacy. 3. Low-dose antibiotic Doctors may prescribe low-dose antibiotics – about half the standard dose – for several months. If sexual activity is a trigger for UTIs, antibiotics can be used episodically after sex. However, antibiotics can cause side effects and create antibiotic-resistant bacteria. 4. Diet supplements Scientific evidence on consuming cranberry-based products to prevent UTIs is mixed. Some studies suggest that certain compounds in cranberries (proanthocyanidins, or PACs) prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder lining, while others show no benefit. If trying these products, women should choose brands with high concentrations of PACs, the active ingredient. Similarly, probiotics, especially those containing Lactobacillus strains, may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, which in turn can lower UTI risk. However, research is still evolving. 5. Hygiene and lifestyle habits Though there is limited evidence, simple everyday habits may help in preventing UTIs: Staying hydrated – Drinking water helps to flush bacteria from the urinary tract. For women who drink a low volume of fluids each day (less than 1.5 litres), increasing water intake may help. Urinating regularly – Avoid holding urine for long periods and aim to void every three to four hours during the day. Urinating after sex – This helps clear bacteria introduced during intercourse. Choosing breathable underwear – Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes reduce the buildup of moisture, which in turn reduces bacterial growth. More innovations on the horizon Vaccines are one of the most promising developments for preventing recurrent UTIs. In one early trial, overall recurrences decreased by 75 per cent for women given an oral vaccine, with no major side effects reported. Trials are currently underway in Canada, and researchers hope vaccines will provide a more effective and long-term solution. When to see a doctor Any woman who is experiencing frequent UTIs — defined as two infections in six months or three in a year — in menopause should talk to their doctor or primary care provider. Together, they can determine the best preventive targeted strategies. Knowledge is power, and there is more information available today than ever before. UTIs are not an inevitable part of ageing. With the right combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes, women can reduce postmenopausal risk. Erin A. Brennand is a Gynecologist & Associate Professor in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary. Jayna Holroyd-Leduc is a Professor and Head in the Department of Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary. Pauline McDonagh Hull is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary.
CTV News
a day ago
- Business
- CTV News
People with disabilities concerned proposed Liberal bill will increase federal taxes
Nicholas Taylor, 39, of Cooks Brook, N.S., outside of their mother's home in this undated handout photo. HALIFAX — Advocacy groups are asking the federal Liberal government to adjust its proposed tax bill to ensure people with disabilities don't end up paying more to the Canada Revenue Agency. Inclusion Canada says it favours Ottawa lowering the lowest marginal tax rate from 15 to 14 per cent, as proposed in the bill that passed first reading earlier this month. However, the group says the unintended result of the change is that tax credits for people with disabilities will decrease in many cases. That's because the credit — used to reduce taxes payable — is generated by a formula that is tied to the marginal tax rate, and by dropping that rate to 14 per cent, the credit shrinks. Krista Carr, the CEO of Inclusion Canada, said in a telephone interview Monday 'we're really hoping this is something that will be remedied, but as of yet we've not had a response.' The lobby group says without this change, many lower income people with disabilities who rely on the tax credit will be paying about $100 a year more to Ottawa. The March of Dimes, an organization that also works on behalf of people with disabilities, says in a release that families with children with disabilities would lose an average of about $156 per child. The federal Finance Department didn't immediately provide a comment on the groups' request for the change to the bill. The Liberals have said reducing the marginal tax rate will save two-income families up to $840 a year in 2026. Ottawa has also noted that beginning in July eligible Canadians can receive up to $2,400 a year from the Canada Disability Benefit. Carr said people with disabilities will lose money in the tax credits 'that are fundamentally important to them as it helps offset the expenses related to disabilities.' She argues the simple fix is to amend the bill to keep the marginal tax credit rate at 15 per cent, 'just for the calculation of these particular tax credits.' Carr also said tax credits on medical expenses will also be affected, and that could further add to the tax bill for people with disabilities. Nicholas Taylor, a resident of Cooks Brook, N.S., said in an interview Tuesday that the extra $100 in taxes would be roughly equivalent to a month of medication costs. The 39-year-old has polyneuropathy — a condition that where peripheral nerves in the body are damaged — which limits Taylor's mobility and requires the use of a wheelchair. 'For myself, that's a month's worth of medication. I'm diabetic and the blood strips that I have to purchase, they're also about $100 for a package,' Taylor said. With tax payments annually of about $450 on $12,000 in income, Taylor estimates the extra $100 the changes may cost him represents a 25 per cent tax increase. 'We need people with disabilities to be consulted before policies like this are brought in,' Taylor added. This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 19, 2025. By Michael Tutton
