Health Department Releases Data Fact Sheet on Obesity

July 22, 2008. The Health Department’s Office of Epidemiology and Planning is releasing a data fact sheet on obesity in Baltimore. The goal of fact sheets is to present available data and information on these topics in a manner that is accessible to the public, policymakers, and students. [Press Release] [Data Fact Sheet on Obesity]

Health Department Releases Public Comments on Proposed Cigar Regulation

July 16, 2008. The Baltimore City Health Department is making available the public comments submitted in response to a proposed regulation on cheap, single cigars. [Press Release] [Public Comments]

New Study Finds Hunger in Baltimore: City and State Public and Private Agencies Launch New Effort to Connect Families to Food Resources

July 15, 2008. University of Maryland researchers are reporting that nearly one in 8 low-income families in Baltimore with young children suffer from food insecurity. The findings have led to a new interagency effort to connect needy families to food resources. [Press Release] [HungryinBaltimore.org] [Food Security: Ensuring the Health of Baltimore's Babies]

Testing Reveals Items of Children’s Jewelry with Excess Lead

July 8, 2008. The Baltimore City Health Department has issued violation notices to two businesses prohibiting the sale of a children’s jewelry product that were identified with lead levels in metal components above 600 parts per million. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has been alerted. [Press Release] [Lead in Children's Jewelry Webpage]

Maryland Law and HIV Counseling and Testing

During the 2008 legislative session, the Maryland General Assembly passed legislation entitled "HIV Testing - Informed Consent and Treatment." This legislation makes key changes in the way counseling and consent are done through out the State. A copy of the legislation can be found at the General Assembly's website. The changes in the law go into effect July 1, 2008.

The AIDS Administration is currently developing guidance for providers and HIV testing sites. Click here for information for Healthcare Providers and Facilities and Counseling, Testing and Referral Sites. Click here for the link for all HIV providers in Baltimore City.