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How common is sex for boys before age 13?

A study combining US survey data found that 7.6% of male high school students and 3.6% of males aged 15-24 reported having sex before age 13. The prevalence varied across metropolitan areas, with higher rates among non-Hispanic black and Hispanic males.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 8, 2019

Teens living in US states allowing medical marijuana smoke less cannabis

A large-scale study of American high school students found that legalizing medicinal marijuana has led to a drop in cannabis use among teenagers. The study, which used data from over 800,000 students across 45 states, found a 1.1% reduction in teen cannabis smokers in states with medical marijuana laws compared to those without.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·DateFeb 14, 2019

BU's service-learning initiative to teach hands-only CPR to high school students is successful

The PumpStart program demonstrates effectiveness in teaching high school students life-saving skills and providing medical students with public health education opportunities. High school students showed significant improvements in CPR technique and confidence, while medical students gained higher confidence levels in teaching and ment...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Education·DateJan 4, 2019

Majority of teenagers need food safety education

A new study from the University of Waterloo found that fewer than 50% of recommended food-handling practices were followed by Ontario high school students. The researchers observed significant improvements in thermometer use after a training program, but many students continued to engage in risky behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Food Protection·DateJun 26, 2018

Making a leap from high-ability high school to college of lesser academic status can be a real downer

Undermatching students from high school to college show significant depression symptoms, highlighting the impact of school ability transitions on mental well-being. Researchers found that downward transitions are linked to depression at levels similar to background factors, suggesting a need for counselors to consider school environmen...

SourceBaylor University·JournalYouth & Society·DateMar 29, 2018

Attending a middle vs. a K-8 school matters for student outcomes

A new study by NYU Steinhardt School found that attending a middle school compared to a K-8 school negatively impacts certain measures of students' beliefs about their academic abilities, particularly in reading skills. The researchers suggest strengthening middle schools by focusing on the instructional and social environment, teacher...

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateOct 16, 2017

Cancer prevention & early detection, 2017-2018

The report assesses current cancer risk factors and prevention measures, highlighting improvements in some areas but stagnation or decline in others. Cigarette smoking among adults has dropped to 15% but remains high in certain geographic areas, while obesity prevalence continues to rise, particularly among black women.

Student and school variables can predict high school dropout, study finds

A Georgia State University study found that high school dropout rates are influenced by both student-level and school-level factors. Socioeconomic status plays a significant role in determining dropout rates, regardless of race or ethnicity. Schools can make a difference by offering extracurricular activities and limiting retention pol...

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalSchool Psychology Quarterly·DateApr 10, 2017

Researchers observe reduction in sexual violence among high school students

A recent study by University of Kentucky researchers found a 12-13% lower rate of sexual violence victimization in schools that implemented the Green Dot program, resulting in 120 fewer sexually violent events. The five-year program, funded by CDC and partnering with local organizations, was shown to be cost-effective and culturally im...

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 8, 2017

Black students feel less welcome at schools with excessive suspensions

Research shows that black students in high schools with a large discipline gap perceive less fair and inclusive treatment, feeling less like they belong. Schools can address this by providing diversity training for teachers and staff, using mindfulness and stress management techniques, and exploring alternative discipline methods.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateOct 24, 2016