By: Tim Henderson-March 11, 2026 Arkansas Advocate
Twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia now reject at least some federal vaccine guidance as the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to de-emphasize the importance of childhood vaccinations under U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., according to research by KFF, a nonprofit health policy organization based in California and Washington, D.C.
Log a Load for Kids of Arkansas has committed $2.5 million to support heart research at Arkansas Children’s, continuing a decades-long partnership aimed at improving outcomes for children with cardiovascular conditions.
A newly published study reveals that illegal e-cigarettes designed to resemble miniature boba tea cups, cola cans, and toy animals are being widely promoted on Instagram, often portraying young people using the products and marketing them in ways that may appeal to youth.
Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway has been honored as the 2026 winner of the Outstanding Business – Category 1 (150+ Employees) award by the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. The award was presented at the Chamber's 2026 Annual Meeting on March 19.
The Outstanding Business award recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in business operations, community involvement, and commitment to the local economy. Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway was selected for its service and dedication to the health and well-being of the Conway community.
Yunmeng Liu, PhD, an assistant professor in the College of Medicine Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), has received a $3.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
