Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga
Health equity reporter, Kansas News ServiceBek Shackelford-Nwanganga reports on health disparities in access and health outcomes in both rural and urban areas.
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This is the first confirmed measles case in Kansas City since 2018. Although measles is one of the most contagious diseases, experts say there’s a clear way to avoid it: vaccination. -
Many Americans struggle with medical debt, and those expenses can cause families to give up non-essential costs like extracurricular sports. The Finish Strong Foundation helps pay sports fees so kids can finish their season. -
The influx of people could mean a greater chance of disease spreading. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment will have training, reporting and testing information for diseases and travel health notices. -
According to recent data from medical records, Nebraska and Kansas have the highest rates of Parkinson’s disease diagnoses. Groups in Kansas are helping people with Parkinson’s slow the progression of the disease through activities including exercise and art classes. -
The newly released state data shows it’s the second consecutive year abortions in Kansas have exceeded annual numbers prior to 2022, when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. -
According to a report by the March of Dimes, scores in Kansas improved overall. But people of color still face the biggest disparities, like higher preterm birth rates and disproportionate infant deaths. -
In Kansas and nationwide, the number of women having babies in their 40s is increasing. It comes as the overall birth rate declines and younger women are having fewer babies. -
Enhanced credits for health insurance purchased from the Affordable Care Act marketplace expire at the end of this year. If they aren’t renewed, premiums will skyrocket for many people in Kansas and nationwide. -
Health care workers for Kansas and Missouri clinics run by Encompass Medical Group are demanding higher wages. They say new hires are making more than long-time employees. -
A report says several Kansas policies restrict access to birth control. Also, the state falls short of protecting access to contraceptives by having no policies in several key areas.
