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Maui wildfires toxic particles; Renaming obesity; Suicides reached all-time high in 2022- Morning Medical Update

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Maui wildfires toxic particles

Even as the destruction subsides, experts warn Maui residents who want to return to the destruction left by wildfires. “It is not safe. It is a hazardous area and that’s why experts are here,” Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen said in a press conference. Officials say it’s imperative that residents steer clear until cleanups take place.

Renaming obesity

Some experts are in favor of renaming obesity due to the stigma surrounding the disease. One previously introduced term is adiposity-based chronic disease. Destigmatizing the disease would increase access to care, reduce personal blame, and contribute to an overall more supporting environment.

Suicides reached all time high in 2022

The highest ever recorded number of suicides in United States history was in 2022 with 49,449 suicides. This marks a 2.6% increase from suicide rates in 2021. "Nine in 10 Americans believe America is facing a mental health crisis. The new suicide death data reported by CDC illustrates why," U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement.

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