内容摘要：Some experts worry that the recent decline could be slowed or stopped by reductions in federal funding and the public health workforce, or a shift away from the strategies that seem to be working.

Some experts worry that the recent decline could be slowed or stopped by reductions in federal funding and the public health workforce, or a shift away from the strategies that seem to be working.

Diene, who comes from a rural village in Senegal, has riboflavin transporter deficiency. High doses of vitamin B2—a supplement available on Amazon—can slow, stop and even reverse damage from this condition that is fatal without treatment.Diene took her first dose when she was diagnosed in August 2023. She still has some difficulty hearing, but Diene is walking again. She has regained the strength in her face and hands. Diene’s brother Thierno said vitamin B2 is expensive, but he knows his sister needs it for the rest of her life.

“I am happy,” Diene said, smiling. “I hope to keep improving.”While efforts like these help patients, they also allow doctors to collect data—and that’s vital for rare disease research, policy and drug development, said Lauren Moore, chief scientific officer at the National Ataxia Foundation.“The most prevalent diseases get the most attention and the most funding,” she said. “Data … really is the first step.”

A $50,000 grant from the foundation allows Rodriguez and colleagues to enroll study participants in Senegal and Nigeria with inherited ataxias—which can lead to muscle weakness, loss of mobility, hearing and vision difficulties and life-shortening heart problems.Pathe Gueye, left, and Ndeye Lam, right, stand on their roof in Dakar, Senegal Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025. Their daughter Mariama died at age 13 of a rare genetic disease. (AP Photo/Annika Hammerschlag)

Pathe Gueye, left, and Ndeye Lam, right, stand on their roof in Dakar, Senegal Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025. Their daughter Mariama died at age 13 of a rare genetic disease. (AP Photo/Annika Hammerschlag)

The USAID cuts have not affected his research, but grant awards are limited. Rodriguez, Senghor and Rokhaya Ndiaye, professor of human genetics at the University of Dakar, are making plans to ensure genetic testing continues in Senegal.When Sonya Islam was too tired to crawl out of bed for suhoor as a child, her mother would bring her a banana and a glass of milk. Now a dietician at VCU Health, she sees the wisdom in that meal: a combination of fiber and protein.

“Having sustained fuel that can last for as long as possible is critical,” she said.This article is part of AP’s Be Well coverage, focusing on wellness, fitness, diet and mental health.

She suggests foods with healthy fats in them — like avocados and nuts — as well as high-fiber, hydrating vegetables and fruits. Sugary foods aren’t the best idea since they digest quickly and can trigger cravings.While that cup of coffee or tea may be tempting, experts say it’s best to fight the urge. Instead, hydrate with water and non-caffeinated drinks.