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Climate change and the role of disseminated coccidioidomycosis in at-risk populations, including pregnant people

Background The soil-dwelling pathogenic fungus Coccidioides is native to the Southwestern United States and parts of South America. Coccidioides causes coccidioidomycosis in humans, or Valley fever (VF), through inhalation of airborne fungal spores.1 VF is predominantly a respiratory disease, but can manifest in any organ system.2 About 60% of cases are asymptomatic.3 The remaining 40% …

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HPV Vaccination and Cervical Cancer Rates – How Utah is doing compared to the rest of the US

Abstract Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with nearly all sexually active individuals exposed to it at some point in their lives. While most HPV infections resolve on their own, persistent infections with high-risk strains, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, can lead to cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is highly effective in …

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Diabetes among American Indian/Alaska Native Utah Women

More than 30 million Americans are currently living with diabetes—approximately 1 in every 10 people.1 Of these cases, over 90% are classified as type 2 diabetes. 2 Diabetes is more prevalent within certain populations and age groups, with risk generally increasing with age. While about 10% of the overall adult population has diabetes, this figure …

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The Intersection of Smoking, Mental Health, and Social Well-Being Among Women in Utah: A Data Snapshot

Abstract Cigarette smoking remains a leading preventable source of morbidity and death among women in the United States. This data snapshot examines the intersection of smoking behavior, mental health, and social health among Utah women, a state with unique demographic and cultural influences on health behavior. While Utah’s smoking prevalence is lower than that of …

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Systematic Analysis of Factors Contributing to the Prevalence of Depression Among Women in Utah, Compared to the National Average

Background This data snapshot presents a comparative analysis of the mental health of women in Utah relative to the national average for women across the United States. It explores the factors that contribute to the notably higher rates of depression among women in Utah compared to the national average. The study explores key questions, including …

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Trends in Stillbirth Rates in Utah

Background Stillbirth, sometimes called fetal mortality, is a public health issue that spans many of the seven domains of health. However, stillbirth remains relatively undiscussed and unexplored. Even the definition is not widely agreed upon across states and nations.1 In Utah, stillbirth is defined as a baby of at least 20 weeks gestational age being …

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Letter from the Editor, Karen Schliep, PhD MSPH, 2023-24

It is with great enthusiasm and deep appreciation that I present to you the 2023/2024 issue of the Utah Women’s Health Review. This issue is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and a growing momentum in Utah and beyond to advance women’s health research across the lifespan. This year’s Review includes …

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Depression and Anxiety in Women

The emotional health and wellness needs of women vary throughout their lifespan.  Symptoms related to and diagnoses of anxiety and depression are core components of mental health. In this article, we will focus on anxiety and depression among women during adolescence, the childbearing and reproductive years, and the perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal period. Understanding how …

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Does Maternal Age Modify the Association Between Gestational Diabetes and Primary C-section Delivery? A Cross-Sectional Study of Utah PRAMS Data

Abstract Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is prevalent in expecting mothers and is associated with various adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Previous studies suggest a relationship between GDM and cesarean section (CS). However, the results of these studies in the context of primary CS and mothers’ age are limited and inconsistent, when other factors are …

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