Americans don’t want to know if they have cancer; New bill would require nationwide sex ed; Suicide taboo in obituaries changing - Morning Medical Update

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Americans don’t want to know if they have cancer

One in four Americans would prefer not to know if they have cancer, according to a recent survey commissioned by Bayer. Additionally, nearly a third of Americans avoid doctor appointments for fear of what the could find. This may stem from a lack of resources and knowledge.

New bill would require nationwide sex ed

The Real Education and Access for Healthy Youth Act (REAHYEA) would make sex education a requirement in schools nationwide. Currently, only California, Oregon, and Washington require sex education in schools. If passed, the bill would provide $100 million in funding from 2024-2029.

Suicide taboo in obituaries changing

Traditionally, loved ones have not listed suicide as the cause of death in obituaries, but things have begun to change. High profile suicides such as actor Robin Williams and designer Kate Spade have helped reduce the stigma. “Being honest can lead to information and awareness, whereas if we keep it shrouded in this big mystery it doesn’t help,” Dan Reidenberg, a psychologist and managing director of The National Council for Suicide Prevention said in an interview.