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Hookah tobacco smoking seems to be increasing in both prevalence and frequency

A recent study found that nearly 1 in 5 high school seniors reported hookah smoking in the past year, with a significant proportion being regular users. The increasing prevalence of hookah use among adolescents is a growing public health concern, necessitating targeted interventions and surveillance efforts.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 15, 2015

Study shows that teens lose sleep after change to daylight saving time

A new study finds that high school students lose an average of 32 minutes of sleep per night following the springtime change to daylight saving time. This leads to increased daytime sleepiness and decreased vigilance, posing a risk to teen drivers. The study suggests that this can further restrict their already limited sleep schedules.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateSep 3, 2015

Small high school reform boosts districtwide outcomes

A study by New York University researchers found that small high school reform leads to improved graduation rates and test scores in both new and existing larger schools. The reform resulted in a 13 percentage point increase in graduation rates among students in small high schools compared to those in continuously operating schools.

SourceNew York University·JournalEducational Researcher·DateApr 28, 2015

Trends in indoor tanning among us high school students

According to a study published in JAMA Dermatology, indoor tanning decreased among female US high school students from 25.4% in 2009 to 20.2% in 2013. Frequent indoor tanning was also on the decline, with 10.3% of females engaging in frequent use in 2013. Despite these reductions, indoor tanning remains a common practice among youth.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateDec 23, 2014

Teens still sending naked selfies

A new study from the University of Utah confirms that substantial numbers of teens are engaging in sexting, sending and receiving explicit sexual images via cellphone. The study found nearly 20% of students had sent a nude photo, while 38% had received such a picture, highlighting the potential risks and consequences of this behavior.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateOct 8, 2014

Smart teens rub off on teammates

A new study at Brigham Young University found that high school students who participate in extracurricular activities with members who get good grades are more likely to attend college. The type of team or club doesn't matter, as long as the student is surrounded by peers with high GPAs.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalSocial Science Research·DateSep 16, 2014

Low-income students in charter high schools less likely to engage in risky behavior

A new UCLA-led study reveals that high-performing public charter high schools in Los Angeles significantly reduced the likelihood of engaging in risky health behaviors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, among low-income minority adolescents. These students also scored better on standardized tests and exhibited improved cognitive skills.

Smart and socially adept

According to Catherine Weinberger's study, individuals who exhibit both book smarts and social skills achieve greater success in the workplace. She analyzed data from 1972-1992 high school students and found a strong upward trend for workers with a combination of cognitive ability and social skills.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalThe Review of Economics and Statistics·DateJul 7, 2014

Energy drinks linked to teen health risks

A new report finds energy drink consumption among teenagers may be linked with poor mental health and substance use, with nearly two thirds reporting use in the past year. Younger high school students were more likely to consume energy drinks than older ones, highlighting a trend of concern.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateMar 6, 2014

Most teen workers spend, not save

A new study of 49,000 high school seniors found that most spend their earnings on clothes, music, and entertainment, with males spending more on cars. Despite this, college savers tend to have better grades and lower substance use, but still face negative effects from long working hours.

Most students exposed to school-based food commercialism

A study by Yvonne Terry-McElrath and colleagues found that most elementary, middle, and high school students are exposed to food commercialism at school. The percentage of schools with exclusive beverage contracts decreased from 2007 to 2012, but fast food remained available in many schools.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 13, 2014

How teens choose their friends

A national study led by Michigan State University scholar finds that course-taking influences teenage friendships. Students in similar academic pursuits form close bonds, and small classes often create opportunities for friendships.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·DateNov 15, 2013

A 'yes' to 1 drug could become 'yes' for other drugs

A study of 29,054 high school seniors found that those who use marijuana are less judgmental of other socially acceptable drugs like LSD and amphetamine. Conversely, youths from urban areas and those with strong religious beliefs tend to disapprove of harder drugs like cocaine and heroin.

SourceSpringer·JournalPrevention Science·DateOct 8, 2013