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Lauren Villagran

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Christian Science Monitor

Is birth the 'old-fashioned way' on its way out in Mexico?

By Lauren Villagran | 04/11/13

Mexico has the highest rate of Caesarean surgeries in Latin America. Doctors and patients who prefer the convenience of scheduling birth are just one factor playing a role in Mexico's ranking.

Christian Science Monitor

Test the teacher? Educators balk at Mexico's reforms

By Lauren Villagran | 03/04/13

The powerful teachers' union opposes the new education reform enacted this week, but supporters say it could improve competitiveness and boost Mexico's standing in the global economy.

Christian Science Monitor

Who is a victim in Mexico's drug war violence?

By Lauren Villagran | 12/13/12

A new, controversial memorial to victims of Mexico's drug war may prompt deeper wrestling with what has become a controversial topic.

Christian Science Monitor

Can a gang truce in El Salvador open the door to lasting peace?

By Lauren Villagran | 10/24/12

For years El Salvador battled gangs with prison sentences and an iron fist. But a gang truce brokered in March has lasted longer than anyone expected, with homicide rates plummeting.

Christian Science Monitor

Lucha Libre: A spandex-clad campaign against obesity in Mexico

By Lauren Villagran | 09/05/12

Mexico's health ministry has partnered with Lucha Libre wrestlers to fight obesity there. The campaign includes informational videos and weighing willing attendees outside of the junk food-centric events.

Christian Science Monitor

Questions after Mexican police open fire on US officials

By Lauren Villagran | 08/27/12

Members of the Mexican Federal Police opened fire on a US diplomatic car on Friday. Was it mistaken identity or an assassination attempt?

Christian Science Monitor

Better prepared: Mexico's 7.4 quake causes damage, but no deaths

By Sara Miller Llana and Lauren Villagran, Christian Science Monitor | 03/22/12

Tuesday's earthquake was one of the strongest that residents have felt in the capital since the 1985 quake that killed some 10,000, and still haunts many.

Christian Science Monitor

Garbage piles up in 'green' Mexico City

By Lauren Villagran | 01/18/12
One can't miss the garbage truck in Mexico City, whose arrival is announced by the clanging of a bucket-sized bell and a cloud of pungent exhaust. With the truck in view, residents scurry out to hand over bulging bags of trash, promptly ripped ope