3 in 5 liver cancer cases are preventable; William Carey University opens institute to boost Mississippi’s rural health workforce; most people understand alcohol, smoking risks in pregnancy, but miss key health details – Morning Medical Update

Three in five liver cancer cases are preventable, Lancet Commission finds

A new report from The Lancet Commission on liver cancer reveals that 60% of global liver cancer cases are linked to modifiable risk factors — primarily hepatitis B and C, alcohol use and obesity-related liver disease. Without urgent intervention, liver cancer cases could double by 2050, with deaths rising from 760,000 to 1.37 million annually. The report calls for global action including hepatitis vaccination, alcohol regulation, and screening for liver damage in high-risk populations as obesity-linked cases climb sharply, especially in the U.S., Europe and Asia.

William Carey opens new institute to boost Mississippi’s rural health workforce

William Carey University has dedicated the Charles W. Pickering Institute of Primary Care; a $20 million state-supported facility aimed at expanding access to primary care in Mississippi. The new center will train more osteopathic physicians, especially for rural and underserved communities, through advanced simulation labs and clinical education. State Health Officer Daniel Edney, M.D., FACP, FASAM, called the institute a vital step toward improving life expectancy and health outcomes in the state, which continues to face one of the nation’s most severe physician shortages.

Americans understand alcohol and smoking risks in pregnancy, but miss key health details

A national survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds most Americans recognize the dangers of smoking and drinking during pregnancy, but many lack knowledge on recommended vaccines, iron supplements and healthy weight gain. Only 11% correctly knew the measles vaccine isn’t advised for pregnant people, and fewer than half knew iron supplements are needed only for anemia. Researchers say better public education is vital to support maternal and infant health — especially as gaps persist among women of childbearing age.