It is National Recovery Month, a time to reflect on the roots of substance use disorders. Adolescents experimenting with drugs and alcohol might seem unstoppable judging by the numbers. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 10% of 12-year-olds, 50% of 15-year-olds, and 70% of 18-year-olds have tried alcohol. Half of all 18-year-olds have tried other illegal drugs.

UAB Hospital was again named the best hospital in Alabama by U.S. News & World Report. Eight adult specialties are ranked among the best in the nation. The magazine also notes UAB Hospital as “high-performing” in 16 of 20 assessed adult procedures/conditions in the 2022-2023 Best Hospital rankings, released today.

Brain cancer is rare but serious. Researchers estimate that more than 18,000 adults in the United States will die from cancerous brain tumors this year alone.

Each year, UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center (SRC) selects a patient for the Ambassador of Hope Award. This special honor goes to a disabled individual whose courage and determination inspire hope in others facing the challenges of disability. Jay Fassbender is the 2021 recipient of the award. His story concerns his struggle with the rapid onset of a rare muscular condition.

To provide care faster and more easily, UAB Neurosurgery at Greystone now offers a “fast-track” treatment model to patients with brain and spine conditions, including back pain and sciatic pain.