Articles tagged with Public Health
A comprehensive review of 19 multi-day events found that nearly 70% of reported emergencies were infectious disease outbreaks, with influenza, measles, and meningococcal disease being the top causes. Foodborne illnesses accounted for over one in five incidents, often linked to poor food handling practices.
A Stanford University-led study found that gas stoves emit significant amounts of nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant linked to health issues such as asthma and lung cancer. Replacing gas stoves with electric ones reduces nitrogen dioxide exposure by over a quarter on average across the US.
A recent study found that over 70% of pregnant women consume alcohol-free or low-alcohol drinks, primarily for safety reasons. However, many feel there is a need for clearer information and support on the suitability of these alternatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Researchers have identified antimicrobial peptides as a safe alternative to traditional antibiotics for treating oral diseases. These peptides can inhibit bacterial growth, regulate inflammation, and promote tissue repair, making them a game-changer in oral medicine.
Over half (54%) of all HIV diagnoses in Europe in 2024 were made too late for optimal treatment, according to new data from ECDC and WHO/Europe. This critical testing failure is severely jeopardizing the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.
A new study found that long-term exposure to toxic air can weaken the health benefits of regular exercise. The study analyzed data from over 1.5 million adults and found that people living in high pollution areas had a reduced risk of dying, but not eliminated, despite exercising regularly. Clean air can still enhance health gains, wit...
A new study by ESMT Berlin finds that fractional-dose vaccines can significantly reduce infections during epidemics, especially in low-resource settings. The researchers identify vaccination policies that minimize infections while accounting for limited stockpiles and administration capacity.
A national survey by SFU researchers found that Canadians with Long COVID identify virtual healthcare services as crucial to their care, citing benefits like reduced risk of infections and travel time. The study aims to produce a national guidebook providing recommendations on improving virtual care access for people with Long COVID.
Climate-vulnerable districts in India are at risk of adverse health outcomes, including higher rates of underweight children. The study highlights the impact of climate change on Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in Indian districts.
A new study found that acid rain can destabilize soil microbiomes, making it easier for disease-causing microbes like E. coli O157:H7 to invade and persist. The researchers discovered that acid rain accelerates the evolution of high-risk pathogens, which can lead to severe foodborne illness and increased mortality rates in animals.
A recent study found that microplastics in the natural environment are colonized by pathogenic and antimicrobial resistant bacteria. The study's findings suggest that these microplastics can act as carriers for harmful pathogens, posing a growing risk to environmental and public health.
A new study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that NYC's most aggressive housing quality enforcement programs reduced hazardous housing violations in targeted buildings by half, but did not lead to measurable changes in short-run health care utilization. Despite significant housing quality improvements, the a...
A new study from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health finds that nontraditional benefits play a crucial role in retaining younger public health workers. Younger employees value flexible scheduling and remote work policies more than their older counterparts, making these benefits essential for attracting and keeping talent.
Researchers tested a 'mental model' approach to counter unwarranted fears about mRNA technology. The study found that exposing people to visual models of how vaccines work and/or how cells protect DNA from foreign fragments undercuts the effect of exposure to misconceptions.
A population-based study found that exposure to cannabis retail stores was associated with increased rates of harm, particularly in neighborhoods with higher store densities. The American College of Physicians recommends that managed care strategies prioritize improving health outcomes over cost control.
Two new Cochrane reviews show that HPV vaccines are effective in preventing cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes, especially when given to young people before they are exposed to the virus. Girls vaccinated before the age of 16 were found to be 80% less likely to develop cervical cancer.
A novel study shows that US counties with limited digital tools, weaker support systems, and fewer healthcare resources exhibit poorer cognitive, mental, and physical health. The researchers found that counties with high resilience had significantly better outcomes, and that healthcare infrastructure is a key modifiable factor.
The BfR is part of a nationwide interdisciplinary surveillance system, OHIS, to monitor antibiotic resistance. The goal is to identify trends and develop targeted measures.
The FluWarning system uses genetic code analysis to detect subtle changes in flu viruses that may indicate cross-species transmission. It has been successfully applied to H5N1 bird flu and detected clusters of viral activity in the US, issuing alerts before official reports were published.
Researchers warn that Brazil's domestic policies must align with international commitments on forest conservation and climate justice. The country must take concrete actions, such as reversing anti-environmental policies and protecting indigenous peoples' rights.
The Applied Microbiology International (AMI) society has issued a warning about the threat of antimicrobial resistance in viruses and other pathogens. AMI is urging policymakers to strengthen the revised Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, including all types of pathogenic organisms.
A new study from the University of Exeter suggests that collaborating with local communities is key to effective management of urban green spaces. By understanding how communities use and value these areas, local governments can create biodiverse and resilient spaces that support nature and public wellbeing.
The 2025 European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology (ESCAIDE) brings together over 3,000 participants to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaboration in infectious disease prevention and control. The conference highlights urgent priorities such as building trust in science, demonstrating science-based ...
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a new method to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria using bacteriophages, which target the Klebsiella pneumoniae species. The evolved phages demonstrated improved effectiveness in killing multiple bacterial strains, including multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant K. pneumoniae.
A novel nanogel technology has been developed to kill drug-resistant bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, with high selectivity and efficiency. The technology uses a heteromultivalent nanogel that binds to specific proteins on the bacterial surface, disrupting the membrane and leading to rapid bacterial death.
The final set of data on nearly 250 metabolites has been released by UK Biobank, helping researchers predict disease risk and drive treatment strategies for neurological conditions, heart disease, and cancer. The data will also aid in understanding the biological processes that genetic or protein data alone might miss.
A new approach developed by University of Waterloo researchers uses social media posts to identify early warning signs of increasing vaccine skepticism. This method can detect patterns in data much more effectively than traditional methods, providing a bigger lead time before an outbreak occurs.
Research shows that infants of stressed mothers have an earlier and faster tooth eruption, with more teeth by six months of age. Cortisol levels during late pregnancy are associated with this accelerated process.
Researchers at McGill University found that heavy cannabis use during pregnancy can cause delays in brain development in the fetus that persist into adulthood. The study used advanced MRI techniques to track the effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on mice across key developmental stages.
A state-level incentive program aimed at improving diet in SNAP participants showed no significant increase in fruit and vegetable intake. However, the study found benefits among existing high-fruit-and-vegetable consumers. Enhanced implementation strategies may be needed to maximize public health outcomes.
The partnership aims to co-develop and evaluate next-generation self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines targeting seasonal and pandemic influenza. Apriori's Octavia platform will be combined with A*STAR IDL's saRNA delivery technology to develop improved H5 influenza vaccines that anticipate infection in humans.
A new study shows that starting opioid agonist treatment after a hospitalization for toxicity can cut the risk of a repeat event almost in half. The research found that only about 12% of people who experienced a toxicity started OAT within 30 days, but it was highly effective in reducing repeat toxicity.
A new study finds that past heat waves in Europe could become far deadlier in today's warmer climate, with weekly deaths potentially reaching up to 32,000. Researchers used AI and statistical techniques to estimate the death toll based on historical data and global average temperatures.
A new Lancet Series exposes the tactics used by UPF companies and outlines a roadmap for change. The series calls for government regulation, community mobilisation, and accessible healthier diets to address the growing consumption of ultra-processed foods.
Researchers developed a standardized language for describing cannabis and hemp aromas, which can aid in quality assessment beyond THC potency. The study found that hemp and cannabis exhibit overlapping sensory profiles, with distinct aroma characteristics emerging from each.
A 20-year study found that reducing arsenic exposure lowered mortality rates from heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. Participants with lower arsenic levels had significantly lower mortality risks compared to those with continued high exposure.
Research suggests that health apps, wearables, and interactive programs can improve physical activity, diet, and weight outcomes for children and teens. Mobile apps had the greatest impact on diet and weight outcomes, while wearables were most effective for reducing sedentary time.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that child firearm injuries rise as soon as the school day ends, with a peak risk in the first 15 minutes after dismissal. Community-level interventions providing safe spaces for youth are crucial to prevent such violence.
A study published in Journal of Translational Medicine found that successful root canal treatment can reduce inflammation linked to heart disease and improve levels of blood sugar and cholesterol. The researchers discovered a link between monitoring blood metabolic markers after dental treatment, which could help assess recovery and risk.
A University of Sydney-led study found that 42% of Australian adults experienced traumatic events as children, leading to a 50% higher risk of developing mental health or substance use disorders. Childhood trauma is linked to chronic physical health conditions and can have lifelong consequences.
A five-year study led by Leila Larson aims to improve childhood health and development in resource-limited settings. The BUNDLE study employs a combination of responsive caregiving, nutrient-dense foods, and disease prevention and treatment, addressing critical adversities faced by many children.
A new study will analyze the effects of extreme weather on childhood development using big data. The research aims to better understand how weather-related events influence pediatric health and development, which could help address growing health disparities.
A blueprint for reducing firearms harms has been presented, suggesting investments in community-based initiatives and advancements in firearm technologies. The experts also recommend reframing gun violence as a public health issue and supporting coordinated action at federal, state, and local levels.
The degree integration course provides a master's course in basic medicine, Medical Education, and nursing for healthcare professionals in developing countries. Currently, 27 students are being trained, with the goal of creating a virtuous cycle of research, education, and practice in their home countries.
A European study found that long-acting monoclonal antibody immunisation effectively prevented hospitalisation due to RSV infection among children under two years old. The overall immunisation effectiveness was 79%, with a decline in protection over time, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst study found that gerrymandering in North Carolina resulted in reduced access to federally qualified health centers. ZIP codes with more gerrymandering had fewer health centers and were less likely to gain new ones, leading to longer travel distances for patients.
A study of nearly 30,000 female nurses found that consuming more ultra-processed foods was associated with a 45% higher risk of developing adenomas, precursors to early-onset colorectal cancer. The study's findings support the importance of reducing ultra-processed food intake as a strategy to mitigate the rising burden of early-onset ...
A 47-year-old man from New Jersey died after consuming beef due to a tick-borne meat allergy caused by the Lone Star tick's alpha-gal sugar. Researchers identified the allergy and its link to fatal anaphylaxis, urging physicians to investigate severe abdominal pain after eating red meat in areas with high Lone Star tick populations.
In response to rising RSV cases, ECDC advises policymakers and public health authorities on effective ways to mitigate the impact of RSV disease in infants. Immunisation interventions, including long-acting monoclonal antibodies and maternal vaccines, can prevent severe illness and hospitalization.
A new paper by University of Maryland School of Medicine researcher David Gorelick proposes six core competencies for medical students to know about cannabis before entering practice. The competencies address clinical utility, risks, legal landscape, and scientific evidence around medical cannabis.
Researchers have found that a one-hour plasma glucose concentration is a more sensitive marker for early detection of impaired glucose tolerance than traditional methods. This biomarker can help identify at-risk individuals and enable targeted prevention strategies.
A comprehensive review identifies exosomes as critical mediators in the process of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-related diseases. OSA-induced intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation alter exosome secretion and content, disrupting cell function and leading to various comorbidities.
A new report from Northwestern University offers six practical strategies to improve the doctor-patient bedside encounter in an era dominated by AI. By employing these strategies, clinicians can strengthen patient-physician relationships, combat inequities, and reduce burnout, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
The Phase 3 study demonstrated the safety and non-inferiority of EuTYPH-C Inj.® Multi-dose compared to a World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified comparator TCV, Typbar TCV®. The vaccine was shown to be well-tolerated across all age groups with no serious adverse events.
Headache disorders affect nearly one in every three people, causing significant disability and health loss. Migraine and medication overuse drive most of the global burden, emphasizing the need for improved prevention, management, and access to care.
Researchers analyzed carotid plaque samples from 75 Chinese and 111 US patients, revealing distinct differences in plaque morphology, size, and composition. The study highlights the importance of understanding population-specific variations to develop personalized treatment approaches for cerebrovascular events.
A study in Arequipa, Peru found that efforts to track dog-related rabies in poorer areas were lacking, despite higher disease prevalence. An active surveillance system improved data collection and analysis, revealing striking differences between risk and surveillance.
The study found that having no biological offspring was linked to a higher risk of schizophrenia in both men and women. Having more than one offspring compared to one was associated with disease risks across multiple systems. Each additional offspring reduced mental and behavioral disorders by 7% and breast cancer risk by 18% for women.
The Blue Zones Certification Course recognizes clinicians with the knowledge to promote longevity, well-being, and health equity. Clinicians will gain expertise in applying evidence-based lifestyle habits to prevent chronic diseases.
A study by Brown University and Harvard University found that premature deaths among adults aged 18-64 increased by 27% from 2012 to 2022, with Black Americans facing a 38% higher rate. This trend prevents many from accessing Medicare benefits, highlighting the inequities in the social safety net.