American journal of preventive medicine
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Adverse childhood experiences are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood that have been associated with lifelong chronic health problems, mental illness, substance misuse, and decreased life opportunities. Therefore, preventing adverse childhood experiences is critical to improving health and socioeconomic outcomes throughout the lifespan. ⋯ Since the start of this initiative, recipients have focused on building surveillance capacity based on the needs of their individual states; implementing strategies and approaches based on the best available evidence to better prevent adverse childhood experiences; and ultimately improve the mental, physical, and social well-being of their populations. Although evaluation of Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences: Data to Action is ongoing, this article outlines the current recipient surveillance, prevention, and data-to-action implementation efforts.
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State-level monitoring of changes in tobacco product use can inform tobacco control policy and practice. This study examines the state-specific prevalence of current cigarette smoking, smokeless tobacco use, and E-cigarette use and related cigarette quitting behaviors among E-cigarette users during 2017-2018. ⋯ During 2017-2018, the prevalence of adult current cigarette smoking and smokeless tobacco use varied across states and remained relatively stable, whereas adult E-cigarette use prevalence significantly increased. Comprehensive state-based tobacco prevention and control efforts are warranted to reduce the morbidity and mortality attributed to the use of all tobacco products, including E-cigarettes, among U.S. adults.
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Prescribing antibiotic prophylaxis is common yet unnecessary for many dental visits. In this analysis, our objective was to assess whether the appropriateness of antibiotic prophylaxis has improved over time. ⋯ Unnecessary prescription of antibiotic prophylaxis by dentists continues to be common. Antimicrobial stewardship strategies are needed to improve prescribing by dentists.
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Smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death. However, effective medicines, including prescription medications often covered by health insurance, are available to aid cessation. ⋯ Total fills and spending decreased from 2009 to 2013 and then increased through 2019, whereas patient spending decreased. Earlier studies suggest possible reasons for these trends, such as gradual implementation of federal requirements for insurance coverage of cessation medications and reduced cost sharing and financial barriers.