February 8, 2018. It is essential that the State of Maryland stop paying for artificial turf fields and playgrounds that can clearly exacerbate our children’s existing health problems and cause new health problems. Let’s instead invest in safe, natural playing fields, unless any artificial alternatives are proven to be safer, more effective, and as cost-effective as grass.
Read More »On Health Policy
NCHR Testimony to House Appropriations Committee Regarding Playground and Athletic Field Surfaces
February 8, 2018. Companies that make and install synthetic turf on these types of surfaces maintain that it is proven safe and cost-effective compared to grass. However, these materials are not required by any federal government agency to be proven safe. These surfaces can expose children to harmful chemicals and can put children at risk of injury. We appreciate the Committee’s close attention and legislative oversight of this important safety issue for our state’s children and their schools.
Read More »NCHR and WomenHeart Comments on USPSTF Draft Recommendation Statement Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Screening with Electrocardiography (ECG)
Jan 22, 2018, We commend the USPSTF for reviewing the evidence and developing evidence-based recommendations. There is substantial evidence to recommend against screening in low risk adults and is insufficient to support screening in higher risk adults.
Read More »NCHR Comments on the FDA’s Opioid Public Steering Committee (OPSC)
December 21, 2017. We applaud the FDA for addressing their role in developing strategies to “confront” the opioid crisis. We agree that the magnitude and scope of this crisis requires urgent action and agree that the FDA should consider patients’ and other relevant groups’ interests in developing effective approaches to reduce further harm from opioids.
Read More »Letter to Zoetis to Concerning Antibiotics for Food-Producing Animals
December 15, 2017. Organizations urge Zoetis to request voluntarily that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdraw the approval for use in food-producing animals of Zoetis products that contain drugs in the polymyxin class.
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