A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that the new federal school meal standards led to increased fruit and vegetable consumption among students. Despite criticism that the standards would lead to more food waste, the study showed no increase in waste, but high levels of waste still persisted.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health identifies toxic chemicals as a major contributor to neurodevelopmental disabilities among children. The researchers propose mandatory testing and international regulation to control the use of these substances.
A six-year-old Massachusetts law requiring only 'fire-safe' cigarettes has been shown to decrease unintentional residential fires caused by cigarettes by 28%. The largest reductions were among fires involving human factors and igniting materials.
A new study led by Harvard School of Public Health found that a Mediterranean-style diet was associated with lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease among a group of young, working US adults. The study showed that promoting Mediterranean dietary habits could have significant health benefits for young populations.
A new study found that low levels of vitamin D in early MS patients are associated with increased disease severity and progression. Increasing vitamin D intake could help stave off symptoms, according to researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
A large-scale study refutes previous findings that suggested being overweight or obese could lead to lower mortality among people with type 2 diabetes. The study found no association between BMI and risk of death, with normal-weight individuals having the lowest risk.
A Harvard School of Public Health study found little evidence that low-income adults in non-expanding states will migrate to expand their coverage. Instead, Medicaid enrollment occurred gradually over time, with participation increasing among previously eligible parents and certain young people.
A meta-analysis found that healthier diet patterns cost significantly more than unhealthy ones, with an average daily difference of $1.50, representing a real burden for some families. The study suggests creating policies to offset these costs and reduce the economic benefits of healthy diets.
A new study found that men with a specific genetic mutation are more than 50% likely to die from prostate cancer if they're overweight or obese. The researchers analyzed data on 1,243 participants and discovered that obesity was linked to higher levels of insulin and growth factor receptors in tumors containing the mutation.
A study from a worldwide research consortium found that controlling three risk factors - blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and blood glucose - can cut the obesity-related risk of heart disease by more than half. High blood pressure poses the biggest risk, accounting for 31% of increased heart disease risk.
Researchers discovered a disease mechanism in type 1 diabetes that can be targeted using simple, naturally occurring molecules like TUDCA. The study highlights the potential for improving ER function and reducing the incidence of T1D in high-risk populations.
A new study has shown that egg development in malaria mosquitoes depends on a switch activated by a male hormone delivered during sex, which could be a viable strategy for controlling the disease. Blocking this switch may impair the ability of the species to reproduce.
A new report from Harvard University proposes recommendations for addressing the challenge of expanding public access to clinical trial data. The authors suggest a system that balances the need for transparency with the protection of research participants' identities, while also minimizing burdens on trial sponsors.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health finds that living close to an airport increases the risk of cardiovascular hospital admissions among older adults. The researchers analyzed data from 6 million participants and found that aircraft noise was associated with a 3.5% higher hospital admission rate for cardiovascular disease.
A Harvard School of Public Health study found a strong link between surgical readmission rates and hospital quality care. Hospitals with better performance on measures like surgical volume and mortality rates had significantly lower readmission rates.
A new study estimates that over 43 million people are injured annually due to unsafe medical care, resulting in nearly 23 million years of lost healthy life. The study found that premature death is a major driver of healthcare-related DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) lost.
A large study found that colonoscopy screening can prevent up to 40% of colorectal cancers, with more frequent intervals recommended for those with a personal history of adenoma or family history of colorectal cancer. The study also suggests that sigmoidoscopy alone is insufficient for reducing the incidence of proximal colon cancer.
A public opinion poll reveals a significant disparity between medical experts and the general public regarding the need to cut Medicare spending. While many experts believe future spending reductions are necessary, only 31% of the public agrees, with most believing Medicare recipients already pay or have prepaid their healthcare costs.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that blacks are more likely to sleep less than seven hours a night, increasing their risk of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and death. Black professionals had the highest prevalence of short sleep, while white professionals had the lowest.
A new study found that consuming at least two servings of whole fruits, particularly blueberries, grapes, and apples, lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes. In contrast, drinking one or more servings of fruit juice daily increases diabetes risk.
A study led by Harvard School of Public Health identified a novel genetic variant associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes. The finding suggests that the genetic risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be different among those with and without diabetes.
Researchers at Harvard School of Public Health discovered that cells move in a group, propelled by forces from within and nearby cells, to fill spaces. This phenomenon, dubbed 'kenotaxis,' could improve understanding of disease mechanisms and inform potential drug targets.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that women exposed to high levels of air pollution while pregnant were up to twice as likely to have a child with autism. The study examined data from over 116,000 nurses and found associations between air pollution and autism risk in children.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health recommends overhauling US bicycle engineering guidelines to reflect current cyclists' preferences and safety data. The study suggests endorsing cycle tracks, physically separated paths adjacent to sidewalks, to encourage more people of all ages to ride bicycles.
Harvard researchers have discovered a novel hormone that regulates glucose production in the liver, offering new avenues for treating type 2 diabetes. The study found that switching off this hormone improves glucose metabolism, providing a potential therapeutic target.
A study using genome sequencing technology revealed that pneumococcal bacteria population shifted from targeted vaccine strains to rare, pre-existing types, explaining the vaccine's effectiveness. This breakthrough enables real-time surveillance of bacterial populations, improving understanding of vaccination effectiveness and future d...
A new study from the Oregon Health Insurance Experiment shows Medicaid coverage substantially reduced depression and eliminated catastrophic medical expenditures, increasing diabetes diagnosis and medication use among low-income adults. However, it had no detectable effect on physical health outcomes such as hypertension, high choleste...
A new study found that patients with surgical complications generate higher profit margins for hospitals than those without complications. For privately insured patients, this translates to a 330% higher margin, while Medicare patients see a 190% increase.
A recent Harvard study found that consuming fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids significantly lowers the risk of mortality among older adults, with blood levels linked to extended lifespan. The research suggests that adequate omega-3 intake can extend years of remaining life.
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that women who experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse as children are more likely to have a child with autism. The study, which examined data from over 50,000 women, suggests that childhood trauma may increase the risk of autism in future generations.
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health researchers found that hospital characteristics, not patient risk factors, influence c-section rates in Massachusetts. Hospital practices and culture play a significant role in determining c-section rates.
A study found that tobacco companies have evaded the FDA's ban on 'light' cigarette descriptors by adding color-coding to 'light' packs, allowing smokers to still identify their brands. The companies also failed to apply for approval for these products as required by law.
A Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found significant public support for government actions to address obesity and noncommunicable diseases, particularly those promoting healthy choices. Support was highest for menu labeling requirements and lower for penalizing certain behaviors or health conditions.
The large-scale antiretroviral treatment (ART) program in rural South Africa has led to a rapid and dramatic increase in population adult life expectancy, with gains observed in both men and women. The benefit of providing ART far outweighs the cost, with a cost-effectiveness ratio of $1593 per life year saved.
Researchers found that white, non-Hispanic young adults with higher serum levels of vitamin D had about half the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes than those with lower levels. The study suggests that inadequate vitamin D intake may be an important risk factor for autoimmune diseases.
A new study led by Harvard School of Public Health found that sedentary TV viewing can nearly halve sperm counts, while moderate to vigorous exercise may boost them. Men who watched more than 20 hours of TV weekly had a 44% lower sperm count, while those who exercised for 15 or more hours weekly had a 73% higher sperm count.
Research suggests hard-hitting graphic tobacco warnings may help smokers of all backgrounds quit, with consistent reactions across racial/ethnic and socioeconomic groups. The study found that pictorial warning labels were more effective at highlighting the dangers of smoking and encouraging quitters.
A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers found that popular whole grain products often contain more sugar and calories than similar non-stamped products. The American Heart Association's standard was the best indicator of overall healthfulness, according to the study.
Experts urge a broad public health strategy to reduce US gun violence, drawing on evidence-based strategies from other public health threats. The authors suggest over a dozen recommendations, including taxes, smart guns, and education, to address the root causes of gun violence.
The Global Burden of Disease Study 2010 found that people worldwide view different health conditions similarly, regardless of culture or individual circumstances. The study used surveys to calculate disability weights and healthy life expectancy, revealing that global population is living longer but spending more years in poor health.
A new poll from Harvard School of Public Health shows the US public supports continued investment in Federal Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Americans support policies to improve nutritional impact by incentivizing healthy food purchases and restricting sugary drinks. The survey garnered responses from 3,024 adults, with a majorit...
A new study found an association between reduced fine particulate matter and increased life expectancy in US counties from 2000 to 2007. Reducing air pollution levels may be more beneficial for women, with a stronger link in urban areas.
A recent analysis of voter polls indicates that most Obama supporters favor implementing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and want to ensure continued federal efforts to provide health insurance coverage. However, this sentiment contrasts with views from Republican voters, who are more likely to oppose parts of the ACA's implementation.
A new rapid test for tuberculosis has been found to substantially reduce TB deaths and improve treatment in southern Africa. The study found that implementing the test would prevent an estimated 132,000 TB cases and 182,000 TB deaths over 10 years.
A new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers found that high-dose micronutrient supplementation has no effect on HIV disease progression in patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy. The study also showed that high doses of multivitamins increased the risk of liver problems and other serious conditions.
Researchers mapped 14.8 million Kenyan mobile calls to track malaria spread and found a surprising link between travelers and infected residents in Nairobi. The study reveals the potential for using big data from mobile phones to inform malaria control efforts.
A new analysis of 37 national opinion polls reveals that health care is the second most important issue for likely voters in deciding their 2012 presidential vote. Likely voters who prioritize health care are more supportive of the Affordable Care Act and Medicare, favoring Obama over Romney.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health found that patients entering hospitals with heart attacks in states with mandatory public reporting are less likely to receive angioplasties. High-risk patients were particularly affected, with a 27% lower odds of receiving the procedure.
Researchers found that greater sugar-sweetened beverage consumption is associated with a higher genetic susceptibility to high BMI and increased obesity risk. The study suggests that environmental factors can amplify the genetic risk of obesity by consuming sugary drinks.
A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that men who engage in weight training regularly may reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 34%, compared to those who do not. The study also showed that combining weight training with aerobic exercise can further lower the risk, even as high as 59%.