Health

Most public health statistics show Mississippi is the most unhealthy state in the nation, and a critical nurse shortage is hampering access to care for many residents. MPB's Daniel Cherry reports how advocates are calling for policy changes to alleviate the need for more people on the health care front lines.

Proposed immigration legislation introduced this week put Mississippi on the national radar.

Highway safety officials say seat belts are catching on in Mississippi. MPB's Daniel Cherry reports how advocates say enforcement of seat belt laws saves hundreds of lives each year.

State lawmakers are running out of time to develop a strategy for making big changes to Mississippi's mental health system or face the penalty.

The personhood debate is back in the state capitol.

 More people die of heart disease in Mississippi than anywhere else in the nation

With tight budgets and major health issues across Mississippi, immunizations and HIV services have been suspended at the state health clinic in Ocean Springs.  Now some of the services may be coming back.

Forty-nine communities in Mississippi are smoke-free. Biloxi is considering joining the group, but  there’s controversy about whether casinos should be included.

Mississippi has one of the highest rates of HIV infections in the nation...now community and religious leaders are taking a stand against the virus.

Advocates are asking lawmakers to ban smoking in public places and in some cases, even on the roadways.

Heart disease is the leading killer of women across the nation and the issue is multiplied in Mississippi with stubborn problems of obesity, unhealthy diets and inadequate exercise.

Exactly 200 years ago, a series of strong earthquakes hit an area stretching from Illinois – all the way down to Mississippi. Experts say that the likelihood of another major quake is rising steadily.

A new drug court for veterans has started for Jackson, George and Greene Counties, to meet the needs of those who have served in the often traumatic fight for freedom.

A new program aimed at getting Mississippi produce straight from the farm to restaurant tables has kicked off in the state.

The National Institutes of Health is looking for 55,000 people to take part in a long-term study on the possible health effects of the BP oil spill.  So far, 1,300 people in Mississippi have signed up