During American Stroke Month, the American Heart Association is expanding its stroke warning acronym. For years, people were taught to remember 'F.A.S.T.' Now, health experts in Missouri and across the country are urging residents to learn 'B.E. F.A.S.T.' – adding two additional warning signs that could help people recognize a stroke sooner and seek life-saving treatment faster.

Missouri residents searching for relief from rising insurance premiums are exploring new Farm Bureau health plans. But unlike ACA coverage, applicants can still be denied based on their medical history.

A new poll from the Missouri Foundation for Health shows strong support among Missouri residents for access to birth control, finding many have concerns about future barriers to care. Advocates say the study underscores the need for lawmakers to expand access to birth control across the state.

A coalition of sustainable farming groups is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to reject an effort by Bayer-owned Monsanto to avoid cancer lawsuits tied to its weed killer Roundup, arguing farmers and communities deserve clear warnings about health risks linked to glyphosate. The coalition says reliance on glyphosate harms people and the environment, while sustainable alternatives like crop rotation and organic farming are growing and could reduce dependence on toxic pesticides.

A new effort is taking aim at maternal health disparities in Missouri’s Bootheel. UnitedHealthcare is teaming up with the Missouri Bootheel Regional Consortium to invest $250,00 in the area - which has alarmingly high infant mortality and preterm birth rates, along with gaps in early prenatal care.

A new analysis shows how nature loss disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income households in Illinois and across the country. These communities are also more likely to live in polluted areas, which further increases their vulnerability to climate change and poor health outcomes. Experts argue that current policies and conservation practices often worsen these inequities and are calling for community-centered approaches that address systemic racism and ensure equitable access to natural spaces.

New guidance on cholesterol from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology highlights the importance of early detection and treatment to reduce the risk of heart disease, the nation’s leading cause of death. Experts say prevention is possible with the right mix of habits and care.

Johns Hopkins Medicine reports, “Research has shown that listening to music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory.”

Missouri health officials are warning about nitazenes - a powerful synthetic opioid now appearing in the state’s drug supply. Experts say the drugs are stronger than fentanyl and often mixed with other substances, increasing overdose risk. Narcan can still reverse overdoses, though multiple doses may be needed.

While we love all the chocolate bunnies, jellybeans, and Cadbury eggs available this time of year, common Easter decorations, treats, and toys can be dangerous for our cats and dogs.