Estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that two in three children and one in four adults have strong fears of needles. These fears may cause individuals to delay or even completely skip vaccinations altogether. In recent years, a nasal spray version of the flu vaccine has gained popularity. But should providers be wary of the nasal spray? Or is it just as good (or better) than the flu shot? AFMC’s epidemiologist Kristy Bondurant, PhD, MDH, discusses the answers to these questions and more.

Despite the precautions and prevention measures health care providers take, there has been a dramatic increase in data breaches over the past decade, with breaches reaching their peak in 2020/2021. With the pandemic being in full force during this time, there was a desperate need for quick technological services in the health care field. The speed at which this technology was being created caused data security and privacy issues. Thus, cybersecurity has become a hot topic in health care over the past decade. How can we all work to prevent data breaches in health care settings?

Recent years have seen a rapid increase in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the medical field. We can expect to see an even larger increase in 2023. While the main uses for AI in medicine usually include diagnostics and disease detection, many more avenues are available. Let’s take a look at some additional ways that AI can support the medical community.

2022 was a hard year for many people. In all the chaos, it can be hard for some people to get a grip on their anxiety. Now that the new year is here, providers may encounter patients who are itching to improve their physical and mental health: new year, new me. It’s important that, as a provider, you know the best resources your patients can use to make healthier choices in 2023.

What is the difference between forgetfulness that comes with age and forgetfulness that comes from a disease like Alzheimer’s? Dr. Masil George, an Associate Professor from the Department of Geriatrics at UAMS recently went on AFMC TV to discuss memory loss and Alzheimer’s. She breaks down the differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia, the overall warning signs, and actions patients can take to mitigate their risk or live more independently if they do have Alzheimer’s.

The stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS can cause significant emotional damage. HIV/AIDS research is vital to decreasing stigma and pushing people closer to a cure. While some organizations focus more on overcoming barriers to HIV/AIDS treatment, others focus on the other half of the story: decreasing the discrimination, fear, anxiety, and overall sense of taboo that people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS experience daily. The University of Alabama recognized faith-based organizations’ role in decreasing stigma (particularly in the deep south). Their Faith-based Intervention to Heal HIV/AIDS (FAITTH) Program has given them the platform they need to make a difference.