National Updates
U.S. States Report Slight Decline in High-Obesity Rates
A new report from Trust for America’s Health shows that the number of U.S. states with adult obesity rates at or above 35% dropped from 23 to 19 in 2024. While overall obesity still affects ~40% of adults, experts caution that funding and program cuts could threaten gains. AP News
Governors Launch Public Health Alliance to Offset Federal Gaps
Fifteen U.S. governors have formed the Governors Public Health Alliance to coordinate on vaccine policy, emergency response, and data sharing—responding to gaps created by federal funding and staffing cuts. Reuters
CDC Layoff Reversals After Staffing Error During Shutdown
Following criticism, the administration reversed firings of over half the ~1,300 CDC employees originally dismissed in early October, citing a “coding error.” Still, around 600 remain off payroll. The Guardian
COVID-19 Vaccines Becoming Widely Available Again
After recent uncertainties, the CDC has pivoted to broader COVID vaccination availability. The guidance now encourages individualized decision-making in consultation with providers. WIRED
Texas Updates
Emergency Hemp Sale Rules for Minors Enforced
The Texas Department of State Health Services enacted emergency rules banning consumable hemp product sales to persons under age 21. Texas Health Services
Texas Health Conference “Texas Covered 2025” Announced
The annual Texas health policy event Texas Covered 2025 is scheduled for November 3–5 in Austin, focusing on the most pressing issues in state healthcare. Texas Association of Health Plans
Global Health Alerts
Planetary Health Diet Study Highlights Massive Lives Saved
A new EAT-Lancet Commission study estimates that widespread adoption of the flexitarian “Planetary Health Diet” could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths annually, while cutting global healthcare costs and emissions. Food & Wine
Clinical Tips for Providers
Use the obesity report to motivate patient conversations about nutrition, physical activity, and access to weight management resources.
Coordinate with local public health offices to engage in the state governors’ alliance efforts—share best practices in preparedness.
Ensure your clinic is ready for expanded COVID vaccine demand—update staff on the latest guidance.
For Texas practices: enforce the new hemp rules in your patient counseling (especially adolescents).
Consider integrating dietary counseling referencing the Planetary Health Diet—focus on gradual shifts to more plant-based foods.
