Health
Health news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
HealthWhy Are Americans So Tired? What a CDC Report Says
A recent report from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics reveals that approximately 71.5% of U.S. adults have experienced fatigue over the past three months. Women and younger adults are more likely to report frequent fatigue, defined as feeling very tired most days. The study, which surveyed around 27,000 adults, indicates that frequent fatigue is linked to higher risks of cognitive difficulties, depression, and anxiety. Notably, fatigue rates are highest among young adults aged 18-34 (19.5%) and American Indian and Alaska Native adults (25.5%). The report highlights the need for awareness of fatigue as a significant health concern.
HealthNonprofit helps provide hearing aids to children in need
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- A San Antonio-based nonprofit is parenting with health care leaders across the Rio Grande Valley to help provide hearing aids to children in need. Aid The Silent is partnering with specialists at DHR Health, Driscoll, UT Health and Methodist Healthcare as part of its mission to advocate for people who are
HealthYour Health Insurance Bills Are About to Increase
Many Americans are expected to face significant increases in their health insurance costs next year, whether through employment, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), or Medicare. Some may experience the highest hikes in decades due to economic pressures, with costs rising faster than in previous years. Approximately 19 million adults purchasing ACA plans will see double-digit increases, averaging around 15% for 2027. Additionally, a $500 reimbursement check has been promised for about 1 million ACA enrollees, although experts doubt it will provide substantial relief. Employer-sponsored insurance is also projected to rise by 8.2% on average, impacting around 165 million Americans.
HealthDo You Sleep with the Light On? Here's What Could Happen to Your Heart, According to a Study
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal reveals that sleeping with exposure to light at night may lead to harmful changes in heart structure and function. Researchers analyzed data from 11,071 participants in the UK Biobank, who wore light and movement sensors while sleeping. Findings indicate that those exposed to light levels above 3 lux had measurable heart damage, including a 2.4% larger left ventricle and a 1.5% thicker heart wall compared to those in darker rooms. These changes, though seemingly minor, are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and strokes.
HealthSTC offers free CPR classes to Valley residents
South Texas College is providing free CPR classes for residents and students aged 16 and older, responding to increased demand. The classes, which take place three times a week in McAllen, are limited to 10 students each and require registration through the college's website. Program Coordinator Xenia Munoz emphasized the importance of having CPR skills during emergencies, as they can significantly impact the outcome of a life-threatening situation. The sessions are funded by an insurance company, and participants who complete the course will receive certification from the American Heart Association.
HealthSouth Texas College offering free CPR classes to the public
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Free community health care courses are returning to South Texas College this fall. The courses are designed to help prepare students for a medical emergency. Students have the opportunity to learn how to recognize an emergency, perform CPR, and other life saving techniques, at no cost. "Although Basic Life Support is
HealthRecord Cyclospora Outbreak Declared Over, But Questions Remain
NEW YORK — The largest Cyclospora food poisoning outbreak in U.S. history has officially ended, health officials announced on Friday. Officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated they are confident that all iceberg lettuce linked to this specific outbreak has been removed from the market. Nearly 13,000 reported cases of Cyclospora were associated with the outbreak across several states, representing the majority of an unprecedented rise in this parasitic diarrheal illness this year. Although the outbreak is declared over, several questions remain unanswered, including its origin. The parasite is transmitted through human feces, and it is still unclear how wastewater could have contaminated enough food to make so many people ill.
HealthGod chose them to help me: Rancho Viejo man reunites with medical team who saved his life
Julio Cardenas, a 73-year-old man from Rancho Viejo, returned to Valley Regional Medical Center in Brownsville to express gratitude to the medical team that saved his life after a serious bike accident in January. Cardenas was hospitalized for nearly two months following the incident, during which his family relied on their faith for his recovery. He credited the doctors, nurses, and therapists for their dedication in keeping him alive. Physical therapist Alma Ramirez noted the emotional impact of seeing Cardenas again, highlighting the bond formed with patients. Cardenas reflected on the experience, stating he may never ride a bike again, viewing it as a sign to prioritize his health.
HealthMore than 200, 000 Texans are waiting for Medicaid approval as enrollment declines
Over 200,000 Texans are currently awaiting Medicaid approval as enrollment declines. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has faced challenges in processing applications promptly, with only 65% processed on time in July, down from 81% the previous year. New requirements from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act mandate more frequent reapplications and proof of employment, contributing to the backlog. As a result, many families, including pregnant women like Vanessa Melendez, are left without necessary healthcare. The decline in Medicaid enrollment has also led to increased visits to emergency rooms, with over 5 million Texans uninsured, the highest in the nation.
HealthFree Narcan available in vending machines across Hidalgo County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department has launched accessible Narcan vending machines to help reverse opioid overdoses. An event was held on Tuesday to celebrate the launch of five Narcan vending machines across Hidalgo County. The first machine was made available back in November 2025 at the Hidalgo County
HealthMaduro's Wife Requests House Arrest from Federal Court Due to Heart Problems
Cilia Flores, the wife of Nicolás Maduro, has requested a federal court to grant her house arrest while awaiting trial, citing serious heart issues that require specialized medical care. Her attorney, Mark Donnelly, argues that she deserves to recover outside of detention after undergoing invasive heart surgery. The request includes conditions such as GPS monitoring and armed surveillance. Donnelly claims that Flores has not received her necessary monthly injection since her imprisonment and has lost over 25 pounds. The court has yet to announce a decision regarding her house arrest request.
HealthTexas Releases Its First-Ever Official Nutrition Guidelines
The Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee has released its first-ever official nutritional guidelines aimed at helping Texans improve their health. The guidelines recommend filling half of each plate with fruits and vegetables, consuming three servings of healthy proteins daily, and including healthy fats in meals. They also emphasize the importance of whole grains, hydration, and reducing sugary beverages. Established by Senate Bill 25, the committee aims to enhance nutrition education in schools and promote food literacy across Texas. The guidelines will be updated annually based on new research, encouraging Texans to make informed dietary choices.
HealthFree Pap Smear and HPV Screening This Saturday in Harlingen
This Saturday, September 12, women in the Rio Grande Valley can access free Pap smear and HPV testing during a health event in Harlingen. Planned Parenthood South Texas will host its 'Clinic Festival' from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at 712 N. 77 Sunshine Strip, Suite 18. No appointment is necessary. The event celebrates 60 years of service in the community and aims to provide preventive health services to those without insurance. Dr. Iván Meléndez emphasized the importance of early detection of cervical cancer, which is linked to HPV. For those unable to attend, low-cost exams are available at various Hidalgo County clinics.
HealthHidalgo County Expands Free Narcan Access With Five Vending Machines
Hidalgo County has introduced five vending machines that dispense naloxone, known as Narcan, for free to enhance public access to this life-saving medication. The initiative, launched on September 8, is a collaboration between the Hidalgo County Health & Human Services, the DA HIDTA Task Force, and Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas. The first machine has been operational since November 2025 at the Adult Probation Office, with additional machines located in Edinburg, McAllen, Weslaco, and Elsa. Naloxone can quickly reverse opioid overdoses, but officials stress the importance of seeking emergency medical help after use.
HealthOpEd: Prostate Cancer Awareness; A Conversation That Could Save your Life
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of screening for men. In 2026, an estimated 333,830 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed, with 24,090 cases expected in Texas this year. Early detection significantly increases the five-year survival rate to nearly 100%. Men aged 50 and older, or those at higher risk due to family history or ethnicity, should discuss screening options with their healthcare providers. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a common screening method. Additionally, lifestyle choices like avoiding tobacco and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce risk.
HealthFree Narcan now available in Hidalgo County vending machines
Hidalgo County has introduced free Narcan in vending machines located in Edinburg, McAllen, Weslaco, and Elsa, requiring no prescription. This naloxone medication helps block the absorption of narcotics, according to Dr. Ivan Melendez from the Hidalgo County Health Authority. Individuals can obtain up to two doses weekly from the machines. The initiative aims to provide easy access to this life-saving antidote, especially for high-risk groups. Behavioral Health Solutions is also offering free training on overdose recognition and response, having trained over 7,000 people this year. They emphasize naloxone as a treatment and encourage those struggling with addiction to seek support.
HealthCyclospora Outbreak Exposes FDA Inspection Deficiencies for Over a Decade
A nationwide cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce has heightened safety concerns regarding imported food, while highlighting a much longer trend: U.S. regulators are conducting fewer international inspections to detect contaminated products before they reach American plates. Inspections by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at foreign food facilities, including the Mexican farm linked to the ongoing outbreak, have dropped nearly 35% since 2019, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to agency records reviewed by The Associated Press. The pandemic triggered a wave of retirements and departures among FDA inspectors that continues to this day. Even before COVID-19, the agency had long struggled to meet international inspection targets mandated by Congress. Recent staff cuts, reorganizations, and other upheavals during former President Donald Trump's administration could mean even fewer inspections in the coming years, according to former senior FDA officials. 'When you look at the inspection numbers relative to the FDA's responsibility—regarding all the domestic and international companies under its oversight—the agency simply cannot achieve what is required,' said Michael Rogers, who worked nearly 35 years in various inspection roles within the agency. He added that the FDA continues to do many things 'very well with limited resources.'
HealthFree Conferences to Prevent Falls Among Seniors in the Valley
South Texas Health System, in partnership with Prominence Health, is launching a series of free conferences titled "Staying S.A.F.E. from Falls" aimed at preventing falls among seniors in the Rio Grande Valley. With over 14 million adults aged 65 and older experiencing falls annually in the U.S., the initiative will provide information on risk factors, medication safety, and exercises to improve balance. The sessions will take place from September to December at various locations, including Weslaco, McAllen, Mission, and Rio Grande City. These events are open to seniors and caregivers without prior registration required.
HealthFDA Approves AstraZeneca Pill for Treating Advanced Breast Cancer
The FDA has approved AstraZeneca's drug, camizestrant, for treating advanced breast cancer in adults. Marketed as Etcamah, this medication received accelerated approval to address severe conditions. It targets patients with an ESR1 gene mutation, which makes cancer cells resistant to common hormonal therapies like aromatase inhibitors. Patients will need to use Etcamah alongside a CDK4/6 inhibitor, such as Verzenio, Kisqali, or Ibrance. The FDA requires a Guardant360 CDx test to confirm the mutation's presence before treatment. In clinical trials, the drug extended progression-free survival by 16 months, but carries risks of irregular heart rhythms and potential fetal harm.