Many parents, even those who vaccinate against other diseases, wonder why their newborn baby could possibly need the hep B vaccine. But public health agencies around the world agree: babies do need the hepatitis B vaccine. This article explains why.
Category: Risk
Coronavirus Shows We Still Suck At Assessing Risk
I was really looking forward to co-chairing a session at the Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting this year. The organizers wisely canceled the meeting due to the one risk on everyone's mind these days: coronavirus. My talk? “Communicating Risk in a (Mis)information-filled World,” in which I explore how errors in risk perception lead to public … Continue reading Coronavirus Shows We Still Suck At Assessing Risk
Are we worried about flame retardants?
When I was pregnant with my first child in 2008, the nurse who taught our pregnancy class recommended that we use Dreft detergent. One of her reasons was that they don’t strip clothes of their flame retardants. At which point, I raised my hand and asked, “but don’t we want to avoid flame-retardant exposures?” Consider … Continue reading Are we worried about flame retardants?
The anti-vaccine movement isn’t about evidence. It’s about trust.
Many parents are wary of vaccines due to understandable concerns about our healthcare. However, these concerns should not give parents a blank check to avoid vaccinating. This post explores why.
A Guide to Washing Produce
This post focuses on the importance of washing produce, recommended methods to wash fruits and vegetables, the safety of food wax, and whether cleaning solutions are needed to wash fruits and vegetables.
Is Caffeine Safe For Children?
Is caffeine safe for children? Does it stunt growth? How much is safe? Learn more in this post.
(Don’t) Jump Around: A Look at Trampoline Safety
Several years ago, my youngest broke his leg at a trampoline park while we were on vacation visiting my parents. In the urgent care center across the street, the nurses informed me that such accidents were frequent, with toddlers coming in multiple times a week with broken legs. Given their popularity and the risk associated with … Continue reading (Don’t) Jump Around: A Look at Trampoline Safety
Gun Safety and Children: Risks and Responsibilities of Gun Ownership
We are a diverse group of women with diverse views, as outlined in our first blog post. Gun control is no exception. Our experience and perspectives range from desiring a complete ban on all weapons to having served in the armed forces and enjoying visits to the firing range. However, we encourage evidence based-parenting, seek … Continue reading Gun Safety and Children: Risks and Responsibilities of Gun Ownership
Internet safety for kids
What's safe when it comes to apps, channels, and games? How can we improve internet safety for children and for media in general?
Ask SciMoms: Is arsenic in rice harmful?
Is arsenic in rice safe? Does it cause cancer? Is rice cereal safe for children? These questions are explored in this post.
