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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
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This is true
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
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Current science suggests this claim is true
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From mid-June to early August each year, dust clouds from the Sahara Desert blow over the Southern U.S. The dust clouds come every 3-5 days and stay about a mile above ground level. The dust may worsen symptoms of asthma, allergies, chronic lung disease, or COPD. Closing windows and avoiding lengthy outdoor activities can help minimize the amount of dust inhaled. Air quality can be monitored on your local weather channel, weather app, or AirNow.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The current dust cloud is 2,000 miles wide and 750 miles from north to south, making it the largest dust cloud so far in 2025.
The sand carried by the air masses is a form of particle pollution and has the potential to negatively impact air quality.
People with chronic lung disease, asthma, and other lung conditions can consider wearing masks when outdoors and keeping doors and windows closed indoors if air quality reaches levels that are moderate or unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The Saharan Air Layer carrying the dust clouds can also lessen the formation of thunderstorms due to interactions of the hot dry air mass in the atmosphere.
For the most up to date information on air quality in your region, check your local weather channel or AirNow.gov.
UNKNOWNS
The exact timing and level of impact on air quality of the Saharan Dust Clouds is hard to predict due to local variations.
It is hard to predict how the Saharan Air Layer or dust clouds will shift in the coming decades from other atmospheric changes like warmer temperatures.
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From mid-June to early August each year, dust clouds from the Sahara Desert blow over the Southern U.S. The dust clouds come every 3-5 days and stay about a mile above ground level. The dust may worsen symptoms of asthma, allergies, chronic lung disease, or COPD. Closing windows and avoiding lengthy outdoor activities can help minimize the amount of dust inhaled. Air quality can be monitored on your local weather channel, weather app, or AirNow.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The current dust cloud is 2,000 miles wide and 750 miles from north to south, making it the largest dust cloud so far in 2025.
The sand carried by the air masses is a form of particle pollution and has the potential to negatively impact air quality.
People with chronic lung disease, asthma, and other lung conditions can consider wearing masks when outdoors and keeping doors and windows closed indoors if air quality reaches levels that are moderate or unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The Saharan Air Layer carrying the dust clouds can also lessen the formation of thunderstorms due to interactions of the hot dry air mass in the atmosphere.
For the most up to date information on air quality in your region, check your local weather channel or AirNow.gov.
UNKNOWNS
The exact timing and level of impact on air quality of the Saharan Dust Clouds is hard to predict due to local variations.
It is hard to predict how the Saharan Air Layer or dust clouds will shift in the coming decades from other atmospheric changes like warmer temperatures.
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This is true
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCE
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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From mid-June to early August each year, dust clouds from the Sahara Desert blow over the Southern U.S. The dust clouds come every 3-5 days and stay about a mile above ground level. The dust may worsen symptoms of asthma, allergies, chronic lung disease, or COPD. Closing windows and avoiding lengthy outdoor activities can help minimize the amount of dust inhaled. Air quality can be monitored on your local weather channel, weather app, or AirNow.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The current dust cloud is 2,000 miles wide and 750 miles from north to south, making it the largest dust cloud so far in 2025.
The sand carried by the air masses is a form of particle pollution and has the potential to negatively impact air quality.
People with chronic lung disease, asthma, and other lung conditions can consider wearing masks when outdoors and keeping doors and windows closed indoors if air quality reaches levels that are moderate or unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The Saharan Air Layer carrying the dust clouds can also lessen the formation of thunderstorms due to interactions of the hot dry air mass in the atmosphere.
For the most up to date information on air quality in your region, check your local weather channel or AirNow.gov.
UNKNOWNS
The exact timing and level of impact on air quality of the Saharan Dust Clouds is hard to predict due to local variations.
It is hard to predict how the Saharan Air Layer or dust clouds will shift in the coming decades from other atmospheric changes like warmer temperatures.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCES
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heard this concern.
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