Articles tagged with Public Health
The number of US pertussis cases has surged sixfold since the pandemic began, with over 26,600 reported in 2024. Many Americans are unaware of whooping cough symptoms or that a vaccine exists to prevent it. Despite widespread agreement on the causes and risks of the disease, vaccination rates remain low.
A new study found that a sizable minority of people with migraine with aura still receive estrogen-containing birth control pills and hormone therapy, despite treatment contraindications. The study highlights the need for updated research on stroke risks associated with these medications among people with this type of migraine.
A special issue of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America seeks to transform how clinicians, educators, and policymakers think about girls' mental health by focusing on systems that support or fail to support them. The issue explores intersectionality, trauma-informed approaches, and the impact of social media on bod...
A new study found that considering factors jointly can capture a more accurate representation of disparities in residential greenspace exposure, driven by structural racism. Exposure to trees and grass provides numerous benefits to physical and mental health, but inequities persist due to disinvestment in marginalized communities.
A new study finds that environmental regulations in the US reduce medical costs and financial losses by up to five times more than the costs associated with implementing these rules. The EPA's operating budget is tiny compared to federal spending, yet it helps protect the environment and save lives.
The study will select the exact phage that is appropriate for each patient's bacteria, and aims to reduce antibiotic use and healthcare costs. Bacteriophages have been shown to be effective against resistant bacteria causing urinary tract infections.
A new wireless fetal heart rate monitoring device improved perinatal mortality by 60% and detected abnormal fetal heart rates 8-10 times more frequently than standard techniques. The technology also reduced the risk of stillbirths and neonatal deaths, but its effectiveness was limited by late introduction in pregnancy.
Research found that early childhood exposure to childcare tax credits affects children's physical and mental health outcomes differently based on their mothers' educational level. Children of more-educated mothers experienced worse health outcomes, while those of less-educated mothers showed improvements.
Researchers developed a genetic method to produce dark males and pale females, making it easier to sort sex in mosquito control. The approach uses CRISPR gene editing to create an engineered sex-linked trait that enables fast and accurate sex separation without complex equipment.
A new study found that brief, light-intensity exercise significantly improves inhibitory control and mood in children, with potential to enhance learning efficiency. The research, conducted at Waseda University, also revealed that even short periods of physical activity can have a lasting impact on cognitive function.
A new policy brief outlines key policy actions to reduce energy insecurity, a growing threat to public health, particularly among vulnerable populations. The report recommends strengthening energy assistance, redesigning utility rates, and creating a more resilient energy system.
A new AI framework uses a pre-trained viral protein language model to predict the adaptation risk of unknown viruses. The framework, called GIVAL, achieves high accuracy and robustness even with incomplete data, providing critical support for early warning and proactive prevention and control of viral infectious diseases.
A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology suggests that strong and supportive relationships can improve heart health for individuals with cardiovascular disease. The review highlights the need to include intimate partners in cardiac rehabilitation programs to support long-term heart health and quality of life.
The book chronicles challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and offers practical guidance on building trust, prioritizing needs of most at risk and reliable communication. Experts share lessons learned from K-12 schools and public health partnerships to navigate future crises.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has received a $30 million gift from the Kate Marmion Charitable Foundation to support public health initiatives. The gift will address health challenges in South Texas, including obesity and limited access to healthcare.
A randomized clinical trial found digital cognitive behavioral therapy to be significantly beneficial for adults with generalized anxiety disorder. The treatment provided sustained benefits and has the potential for public health impact due to its accessibility.
Research suggests soil microbial communities are a top predictor of childhood allergic disease rates, with certain assemblages appearing linked to better health outcomes. The study found that specific soil microbes promote health, while others negatively impact disease prevalence.
A new study reveals that reducing mortality through large-scale investment in public health is a more effective and ethically sound strategy than encouraging people to have more children. By focusing on lowering mortality rates, countries can slow population decline and maximize the return on investment in their existing population.
A study found that only 6% of FDA-approved drugs reflect the US racial and ethnic makeup, with a decline in Black and Hispanic enrollment between 2021 and 2023. The researchers recommend setting diversity goals at preclinical stages and collecting biological samples to understand how people's bodies react to medications.
A study from Rangsit University shows that a simple bypass protocol guided by mean transit time can improve symptoms in 80% of patients with chronic cerebral occlusion or moyamoya disease. The protocol uses non-stress testing to evaluate cerebrovascular reserve and predict postoperative improvement.
A new study from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that sexual minority individuals have a 7% higher odds of primary Cesarean birth compared to completely heterosexual participants. Disparities were especially pronounced when labor was induced, raising concerns about potential provider bias and unequal interve...
A study published in the journal Children found that improving access to safe drinking water can reduce the odds of stunting by about 20%. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,500 children and found that clean water access had a stronger impact on child growth than sanitation.
Research from University of Vermont reveals exposure to Canadian wildfire smoke worsened asthma symptoms in children in the US Northeast. The study found that smoke from hundreds of miles away affected children's health, highlighting growing health risks for the region as climate change fuels more smoke-filled summers.
Cholera-causing bacteria show substantial genetic diversity and widespread multi-drug resistance to commonly used antibiotics in Africa. A new study analyzed genomic data from 104 isolates across Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Zambia, and South Africa, highlighting the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship.
Scientists at Northwestern University have developed the fastest test yet for diagnosing hepatitis C virus, delivering results in just 15 minutes – up to 75% faster than current rapid tests. The highly accurate diagnostic could revolutionize HCV care by improving diagnosis and accelerating treatment uptake.
A new study found that adults hospitalized with RSV often struggle with breathlessness, reduced ability to perform everyday activities, and lower quality of life six to 12 months after their hospitalization. The study also showed that younger adults can experience serious RSV infections requiring hospitalization, similar to older adults.
A new report highlights the surge in child sexual exploitation and abuse online, with AI-generated material increasing by 1,325% in a year. The WeProtect Global Alliance's Global Threat Assessment 2025 provides a practical tool for technology companies and governments to tackle the crisis.
A new study estimates that substance use disorders result in nearly $93 billion in lost productivity in the US, including $3,703 per adult. The analysis highlights the need for prevention and treatment strategies to reduce harm and costs beyond healthcare expenses.
A new study suggests that prevention campaigns for cannabis-related vehicle crashes should target middle-aged and older adults, who are at risk of driving after using the drug. Adults over 50 who use cannabis daily or have mental health reasons are most likely to drive after using THC-containing products.
Researchers have created a simple and efficient system to understand norovirus gene functions, enabling the development of antivirals and vaccines. The new method involves injecting norovirus cDNA clones into zebrafish embryos to generate infectious human noroviruses.
A study of over 70,000 people found that fewer than 13% meet recommended sleep and physical activity targets. Improving sleep quality was associated with higher daily activity levels. The findings suggest prioritizing sleep may be the first step toward a healthier, more active life.
A new study published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials found that small home appliances with electric heating coils and brushed DC motors emit large quantities of ultrafine particles, posing significant health hazards. The study suggests that children are at a higher risk due to their smaller airway diameters.
New research by MIT researchers found that even with the same CO2 reduction, air travel causes about three times more damage to air quality than comparable electricity purchases. The study highlights the importance of considering co-pollutants and regional factors when evaluating climate actions.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University discovered that Fibulin-5 levels increase as liver fibrosis advances, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment. This finding holds promise for developing a more accurate method to detect liver damage in chronic hepatitis C patients.
A survey study found that overall trust in scientists as sources of cancer information is high, but ideologically diverse. The results suggest the need for tailored messaging and trusted messengers to reach diverse audiences with evidence-based cancer information.
Researchers found a link between mid-14th-century volcanic activity and the start of the Black Death, which killed millions across Europe. The study suggests that climate-driven trade changes carried the deadly bacterium Yersinia pestis, leading to widespread devastation.
A new study from UC San Diego finds that adults who experienced intimate partner violence are more likely to own firearms and purchase them recently. The analysis of statewide survey data suggests a strong association between experiencing or perpetrating intimate partner violence and increased firearm ownership rates.
A new study highlights five ways microplastics can trigger inflammation and damage in the brain, including immune cell activity and oxidative stress. Microplastics weaken the blood–brain barrier, causing immune cells to attack them and leading to further damage.
In-flight cardiac arrest is a rare yet catastrophic event that claims up to 86% of air fatalities. Implementing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on board could significantly boost survival rates from 6% to up to 70%. The authors recommend standardized CPR protocols training, telemedicine integration, and mandatory AED placement.
A survey of adults in the US found that most people prefer the American Medical Association's (AMA) guidance on vaccine safety over the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC), citing concerns about the CDC's recent changes to its website. According to the survey, 35% of Americans would accept the AMA's recommendation, while...
A Bar-Ilan University study suggests that incorporating more walking into daily commutes can improve health without adding extra travel time. By increasing the walking distance thresholds in trip planning, researchers found that most commuters could benefit from an average of nine minutes of walking per day.
A new study found that breast density notifications can lead to increased levels of confusion and anxiousness among women, contradicting the intended goal of empowering them. Women with denser breast tissue may require additional screening methods, which can result in higher out-of-pocket costs.
Social media influencers share biased or misleading medical advice, causing harm, experts argue. Strategies include effective regulation, stronger accountability, and user empowerment through targeted education.
A national study led by Curtin University found that Australian's location significantly affects their body weight. The research tracked individuals across 14 years and discovered that people tend to adapt to the typical weight profile of their new community., Local food environments, walkability, and access to green space are key fact...
Three prominent nursing researchers strongly defend the National Institute of Nursing Research's necessity and impact on public health. They argue that the Institute's research strengths are greater now than ever before, particularly in promoting health across the lifespan with a life course perspective.
The FAIR Consensus Statement offers practical recommendations to reduce injury risk and improve safety in female, woman, and girl athletes. The guidelines mandate sport-specific strength exercises, enforced fair play, and proper equipment use to prevent injuries.
A study conducted in Punjab, India, reveals a significant perception gap regarding air pollution from stubble burning. Residents are more likely to recognize severe air pollution in urban areas but underestimate its impact locally. Personal or familial health experiences play a crucial role in shaping awareness of the issue.
Experts Gregory Folkers and Anthony Fauci highlight promising therapeutic developments in antiretroviral treatments for HIV/AIDS. The authors emphasize the need for continued research to end the AIDS epidemic, citing recent advances as unfinished business.
A recent study published in Nature Health found that higher park accessibility is associated with increased daily physical activity. The researchers analyzed wearable step-counter data from 7,013 anonymous users in 53 U.S. metropolitan areas and found a strong link between park accessibility and movement.
A new trial found that increasing or decreasing sugar intake in a person's diet has no effect on their preference for sweet foods. Researchers suggest that public health advice may need to focus on reducing sugar and energy-dense foods, rather than eliminating all sweet options.
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.