A new study found that participating in civic activities with others can reverse the normal brain shrinkage associated with aging. Seniors who engaged in meaningful social activities showed significant increases in brain volume and improved memory function over two years.
Radon levels in Pennsylvania homes have risen since 2004, coinciding with the onset of fracking. The study found higher readings in buildings near active gas wells compared to low-activity areas. Radon is a known carcinogen that can accumulate in homes without adequate ventilation, increasing lung cancer risk.
Researchers identify molecular pathway reducing misfolded proteins implicated in ALS and dementia. Inactivating specific genes can improve mobility in roundworms and human cells, suggesting potential therapeutic value.
Researchers found that simpler antibiotic regimens are as safe and effective as standard treatments, allowing more infants with severe infections to receive life-saving treatment at home. The study demonstrated that outpatient treatments with fewer injections can produce similar results to the traditional course of twice daily injections.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health analyzed over 81 published journal articles and found that raw milk is associated with nearly 100 times more risk of foodborne illness than pasteurized milk. The study strongly discourages the consumption of raw milk, especially among elderly, pregnant women, and children.
Researchers estimate that a large measles outbreak in West Africa could infect nearly twice as many people and kill thousands more due to significant decreases in vaccinations for childhood diseases. The Ebola crisis has led to a 45% increase in unvaccinated children, posing a substantial risk to public health.
New research suggests that counseling couples about physical activity can improve the health of both spouses. When a wife meets recommended exercise levels, her husband is 70% more likely to meet those levels at subsequent visits.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that one-quarter of insurance exchange plans appear non-compliant with parity laws requiring equal benefits for general medical and mental health care. The research highlights inconsistencies in benefit brochures, including prior authorization requirements and financial r...
A survey of 420 primary care physicians found that nearly three-quarters reported accessing their state's database easily, but most faced barriers to using the data. The study suggests that improving program usability and information sharing between states could increase participation and reduce prescription drug abuse.
Researchers have identified a region in the human genome associated with peanut allergy in U.S. children, suggesting that genes may contribute to its development. The study also found evidence of epigenetic changes that may influence whether those with genetic susceptibility develop the allergy.
A new analysis suggests that people who consume at least one can of soda per day may be exposed to a potential carcinogen called 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) from caramel-colored soft drinks. Researchers estimate that this exposure could elevate cancer risk over a lifetime, highlighting the need for regulation and reformulation of these b...
A new study found that Lyme disease costs the US healthcare system between $712 million and $1.3 billion a year, with patients experiencing persistent symptoms after completing antibiotics. The condition, also known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, affects an estimated 240,000 to 440,000 people each year.
Researchers found that e-cigarettes compromise the immune system in mice, increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections and impairing lung function. The study also identified 'free radical' chemicals in e-cigarette vapors, previously thought only to be found in tobacco cigarettes and air pollutants.
A large study in sub-Saharan Africa found that vitamin A supplementation reduced malaria risk in children by 54% if administered during the wet season and to older children. The researchers suspect vitamin A boosts immunity and helps clear out the malaria parasite more quickly.
Women with high DDT levels and sufficient B vitamin intake had a 42% greater chance of early miscarriage than those with lower DDT levels. However, women with high DDT and low B vitamin levels took nearly twice as long to conceive.
A daily multivitamin supplement given to pregnant women in rural Bangladesh reduced pre-term births and increased infant birth weight, resulting in healthier babies. The study found that the supplement improved birth outcomes by increasing fetal development time and birth weight.
A survey of primary care physicians suggests a decrease in opioid prescriptions, with 58% reporting reduced prescribing habits. The study highlights the growing concern among doctors about the risks of prescription opioid use, including addiction and death by overdose.
New research finds nearly half of all children in the US are exposed to at least one traumatic experience, increasing risk of negative long-term health consequences. Training parents and communities to help children cope with trauma may soften the blows and lead to later success.
A new study found that vitamin E deficiency is associated with a greater risk of miscarriage among pregnant women in rural Bangladesh. The research suggests that improving diet and prenatal supplements could have a direct impact on fertility.
People diagnosed with diabetes in midlife experience significant memory and cognitive problems over the next 20 years, aging their minds five years faster. Controlling blood sugar levels at age 50 can help prevent this decline and delay dementia.
Researchers found that psychosocial counseling significantly reduced repeat suicide attempts and deaths by suicide, with benefits lasting up to five years. The study's findings suggest that talk therapy-focused suicide prevention can be an effective strategy for populations at high risk of suicide.
The new regulations, while improving some aspects of school meals, may not address the root issue of processed carbohydrates and added sugars. Researchers recommend expanding requirements to limit added sugars and processed foods to ensure carbohydrate quality.
Researchers found better health outcomes in Nigerian city of Ibadan compared to Baltimore and Johannesburg, where teens reported high rates of mental health problems, substance use, and violence. In contrast, New Delhi teens reported little depression and cigarette smoking.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researcher Timothy Roberton found that a lack of trust among community members and frontline health workers contributed to the spread of Ebola. In Guinea, villagers refused to listen to public health messages, ignoring advice on how to protect themselves from the disease.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers suggests that people who cook meals at home tend to eat healthier and consume fewer calories. Those who frequently cook at home also tend to rely less on frozen foods and fast food, even when eating out.
A new study found that despite choosing healthier options, young children in NYC public schools barely touch their vegetables and whole grains. Only 75% of kids chose lean protein, but only 24% ate a bite of veggies.
Researchers have found that premature infants are exposed to unsafe levels of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a chemical used in many plastic devices. The study suggests that this exposure may contribute to illness and long-term health problems.
A new study found that older women with moderate to severe breathing disruptions during sleep are more likely to experience a decline in their ability to perform daily activities. The research suggests that treatment of sleep-disordered breathing may help prevent functional decline.
Researchers found HIV-infected adults diagnosed with kidney failure six months younger than the general population, while heart attack and cancer diagnoses were similar. The study suggests successful treatments are helping HIV-infected persons achieve similar longevity.
Researchers have developed a new test that can analyze thousands of FDA-approved drugs to find effective treatments for Lyme disease. The test, called the SYBR Green I/PI assay, enables the measurement of bacterial viability after drug treatment, making it more accurate and efficient than existing methods.
A new study suggests that modifying grocery store environments can encourage healthier food choices among children. Researchers propose strategies like placing healthy options at eye level, allowing sample tastings, and offering cooking classes.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that installing calorie-counting signs in stores led to a significant decrease in sugary drink purchases among black adolescents. The study, which lasted six weeks, showed that teens who saw the signs were more likely to choose lower-calorie beverages or smaller sizes.
A new study finds that intensive parenting and health education provided in homes of pregnant American Indian teens reduced drug use, depression, and behavior problems. The Family Spirit intervention was also cost-effective and created badly needed jobs in low-income communities.
New research found large chain restaurants introduced lower-calorie options, averaging 12% fewer calories than traditional menu items. This voluntary action may help reduce caloric intake and impact the nation's obesity epidemic.
Researchers found that small gasoline spills at gas stations can cumulatively harm soil and groundwater in residential areas, potentially impacting the health of those who use wells as a water source. The study suggests that these spills may be a larger issue than previously thought due to their frequency and cumulative effect.
A study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that child mortality rates have decreased globally, but complications from preterm birth and pneumonia remain major causes of death. The largest burden of child mortality is in sub-Saharan Africa, where nearly half of deaths occur.
A recent study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that people are more likely to have negative attitudes toward those suffering from drug addiction than those with mental illness. The researchers suggest that society often perceives substance abuse as a moral failing rather than a treatable medical condition.
A large study found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is more effective and can have lasting effects than medication for social anxiety disorder. CBT helps people challenge irrational fears and overcome avoidance of social situations.
A new study found that providing statistical information about injury risks can increase public support for road safety laws. The survey of 2,397 adults showed significant increases in support for laws aimed at drunk driving and red-light running after participants were given statistics on related injury risks.
Researchers have discovered a six-fold higher risk of developing heart failure among people with diabetes who appear healthy. A highly sensitive test found elevated troponin levels indicating microscopic heart muscle damage, unrelated to high cholesterol.
A new study from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds that weekly text messages can greatly improve understanding of nutrition labels and encourage healthier food choices. Participants who received the reminders were twice as likely to correctly identify the 2,000-calorie value after four weeks.
A new study reveals that nearly half of hog workers in North Carolina carry livestock-associated Staphylococcus aureus, with 46% persistently carrying the bacteria up to four days after exposure. The drug-resistant strains have implications for public health, potentially spreading to family members and communities.
A new study by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health suggests that normal-weight nutrition and exercise counselors report feeling significantly more successful in getting their obese patients to lose weight than those who are overweight or obese. Patients may be more receptive to those who practice what they pr...
A new study found that most alcohol ads in US magazines from 2008-2010 used 'drink responsibly' messages to promote products, not provide clear warnings about the risks of excessive drinking. The ads failed to convey basic public health information, and instead often contradicted scenes depicted in the ads.
A study found that many hospitals in low- and middle-income countries have insufficient stocks of sterile gloves, eyewear, and other protective equipment. This is particularly concerning in the context of the current Ebola outbreak.
New research suggests states with medical marijuana laws have 25% lower prescription opioid overdose death rates compared to those without. This could be due to people choosing alternative treatments for chronic pain, or the law changing how prescription medications are abused.
A new study finds that calcium buildup in coronary arteries is a strong indicator of heart disease risk in individuals with chronic kidney disease. This measure outperforms other commonly used tests in predicting cardiovascular disease among CKD patients, who are at high risk for heart disease.
Researchers have better understood how bacteria can protect itself from harm, using X-ray crystallography to visualize the molecular machinery known as Cascade. The unique ladder-like structure allows RNA to scan DNA more efficiently than a double-helix structure, enabling faster recognition and destruction of viral invaders.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have discovered a new clue to understanding how the most important medication for tuberculosis works. The antibiotic Pyrazinamide cuts off the energy production of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, killing the bacteria by disrupting PanD, an enzyme crucial to synthesis of co-enzym...
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have found a potential new path toward malaria immunization by injecting a vaccine-like compound into mice. The approach, known as Vector Immunoprophylaxis (VIP), triggers the creation of antibodies that prevent malaria in 70% of mice.