Sweetened drinks represented 62% of children's drink sales in 2018

Fruit drinks and flavored waters that contained added sugars and/or low-calorie (diet) sweeteners dominated sales of drinks intended for children in 2018, making up 62% of the $2.2 billion in total children's drink sales. The report also found that companies spent $20.7 million to advertise children's drinks with added in sugars in 2018, primarily to kids under age 12.

Read more

One in three young adults receive medication for opioid use disorder after overdose

A new study found that one in three young adults receive medication for opioid use disorder within 12 months of a non-fatal opioid overdose. The study shows which medications — buprenorphine, methadone or naltrexone — are being taken, and how long after the overdose they receive the treatment.

Read more

First large-scale study of universal screening for autism raises questions about accuracy

In the first large, real-world study of universal screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in toddlers, researchers have found that the most widely used and researched screening tool is less accurate than shown in previous studies conducted in research laboratory settings. The new study also revealed significant disparities in detecting early autism symptoms in minority, urban and low-income children.

Read more

Test for life-threatening nutrient deficit is made from bacteria entrails

A pocket-sized zinc deficiency test could be taken to remote regions where masses are malnourished – no complex transport or preservation necessary. It could be evaluated on the spot, and this initial test could be expanded into more comprehensive micronutrient fieldtests.

Read more

Study questions routine sleep studies to evaluate snoring in children

A new finding suggests that the pediatric sleep study — used to diagnose pediatric sleep apnea and to measure improvement after surgery — may be an unreliable predictor of who will benefit from having an adenotonsillectomy.

Read more