Research on teenage health, behavior, and development. Covers vaping and smoking, youth mental health, social media, and emergency-care trends.
A new study from Trinity College Dublin suggests that teenagers who spend a 'goldilocks amount' of time online may have better mental wellbeing. The research found that low engagement with digital media is also associated with poor mental health outcomes for adolescents, while high engagement predicts worse mental health outcomes.
A large-scale study found that team sport participation is associated with lower mental health difficulties in children and adolescents. In contrast, exclusive individual sport participation may lead to greater mental health issues. The study analyzed data from over 11,000 US kids and adolescents.
A new mobile app provides effective support for children with obesity by tracking their weight development in real-time and offering personalized care. The app achieved twice the weight loss results compared to conventional care, particularly benefiting adolescents who were previously difficult to reach with behavioral therapy.
A new poll found that most Gen Z youth want their healthcare providers to screen for and provide support for social determinants of health. Nearly 81% of respondents believe providers should ask about factors such as housing, food, education, safety, and discrimination.
Children previously infected with COVID-19 or MIS-C are not protected against the newer Omicron variant. However, vaccination shows protective effects, according to a study published in Nature Communications.
A large retrospective study examines the impact of pandemic-related school closures on children's mental health, finding that adolescent females were disproportionately affected. The study reveals a substantial rise in hospitalizations for suicide, psychosis, and eating disorders after statewide school closure orders.
A recent study found that nearly one-quarter of young sarcoma patients continue to use opioids after treatment is completed. The researchers highlight the need for monitoring and age-appropriate strategies to manage pain while minimizing opioid exposure.
The American Heart Association has updated its guidelines for ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in children and adolescents, providing new evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice. The update aims to improve cardiovascular disease prevention and management in young populations.
A study has found that there is no single best moisturiser for children with eczema, highlighting the importance of patient education and choice. The trial, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, compared four types of moisturisers and found that reactions were common regardless of type.
A University of Cologne study finds that children with same-sex parents exhibit comparable social adjustment as those with opposite-sex parents, showcasing the resilience of same-sex families.
A Columbia University study found that altered thalamic activity in adolescence can lead to long-lasting cortical abnormalities, which may contribute to cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia. Boosting thalamic function during adolescence could potentially treat these symptoms.
A one-year study validated the Harmony transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) system's safety and efficacy in treating congenital heart disease patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation. The study showed favorable clinical and hemodynamic outcomes, including low mortality rates and minimal interventions.
Early treatment with psychotropic medications in children and adolescents significantly reduces the risk of developing a substance use disorder (SUD) by 30-35% for ADHD and major depressive disorder. Longer treatment durations also show positive results, especially when initiated before age nine.
Research at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that cannabis vaping is the most popular method of cannabis delivery among all adolescents, with frequent use rising faster than occasional use. The study also highlights disparities in vaping use among different demographic groups and its link to nicotine use.
A new study finds that Kaiser Permanente's Presence of Mind initiative can effectively deliver mental health information to young adults, reducing stigma and improving attitudes toward treatment. The program, launched in 2020, includes live streams, online training sessions, and creator-led content.
The COVID-19 pandemic saw a devastating rise in adolescent mental health crises, with 60% of admitted patients exhibiting suicidal ideation or attempting suicide. Mental health admissions increased for depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and substance-related disorders, particularly among girls.
A new study from Finland found that adolescent athletes' motivation for school and sports are strongly related, with female students generally showing higher motivation for both. Male students tend to be less interested in school, but not in sports, suggesting a need for targeted support to develop their academic motivation.
A global study of over 51,000 adolescents aged 13-15 found that approximately 8.6% reported vaping in the past 30 days, with lower rates for frequent vaping. Countries with higher tobacco taxes tend to have higher adolescent vaping rates.
A study of over 4,000 US high school boys found a strong association between muscle-building exercise and physical fighting, as well as carrying weapons. The research highlights the importance of addressing gender equity and violence among adolescent boys.
A study published in the Journal of Surgical Research found that e-cigarette explosions caused 15 traumatic injuries in children between 2016 and 2019. The devices' use of inferior quality batteries prone to explosion puts users at risk of severe injuries, including burn wounds, jaw fractures, and eye damage.
A new study found that acute stress and repeated traumas in adolescents alter functional connectivity between the default mode, salience, and central executive networks. This may lead to a maladaptive response to stressful experiences and increased neural vulnerability.
A new study found that approximately 8.6% of adolescents reported using e-cigarettes in the past 30 days, while only 1.7% engaged in frequent vaping. The researchers suggest that e-cigarettes' novelty and appealing flavors may lead to experimentation but not habit formation.
Researchers found that vaping prevention ads with clear health harms and neutral imagery are more effective, while flavor-related content increases appeal. The study suggests avoiding memes, hashtags, and other 'teen-centric' communication styles.
A new paper highlights the need for uniform patient confidentiality policies for adolescents, as state laws vary significantly and often contradict medical societies' standards. The authors argue that this variability can lead to clinically significant consequences for adolescents seeking care for sensitive issues.
A 10-country survey of adolescents with obesity found that nearly 24% are unaware they have the condition, while two-thirds believe it's their sole responsibility to lose weight. Most participants worry about the impact of obesity on their future health.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago found that gene editing can reverse epigenetic changes in the brain caused by adolescent binge drinking, leading to a decrease in anxiety and excessive drinking behavior. The study used CRISPR-dCas9 technology to manipulate histone acetylation and methylation processes at the Arc gene.
A UK study found that 70% of adolescents are not consuming the recommended amount of fruit and over 90% are not eating enough vegetables. The researchers analyzed data from 16 schools in the West Midlands region, finding that pupils were exceeding daily intake limits for free sugar, potatoes, red meat, and chicken.
A study by University of Colorado Cancer Center member Jennifer Raybin found that creative arts therapy significantly improves quality of life for children and adolescents with cancer. The therapy, conducted by a trained clinician, helps patients express and process emotions through activities like dance, yoga, and art-making.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 96 studies found a strong association between food marketing and eating behaviors in children and adolescents. The study suggests that food marketing may play a significant role in shaping the dietary preferences and consumption habits of young people.
A survey of over 165,000 adolescents found a significant increase in school mental health service use in 2019 compared to prior years. The growth was particularly notable among Black adolescents and those from low-income families.
A new study of over 111,000 adolescents aged 11-17 found that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly increased the risk of self-harm. Additionally, school absence was also associated with a three-fold higher risk of self-harm. These findings suggest that early identification and...
Experts warn that recent progress in child and adolescent health is under threat without comprehensive reform. A holistic approach that spans preconception to adulthood is needed to reduce mortality and improve health outcomes. Strong health systems must partner with social systems to support children's development.
A randomized clinical trial found that micronutrient supplementation improved attention and mood in children with ADHD, with a 54% response rate compared to 18% in the placebo group. The study also showed significant growth benefits in children taking the supplement.
Handgun carrying rates have risen significantly among US adolescents, particularly White, rural, and higher income teens. In contrast, Black, American Indian and Alaskan Native, and lower-income adolescents have seen a decrease in carriage rates over the same timeframe.
A new study published in Royal Society Open Science found that depressive symptoms among English secondary school children increased by 6% during the pandemic. Girls experienced greater symptoms and lower wellbeing compared to boys.
A new study found a bi-directional relationship between gastrointestinal issues and internalized symptoms in children with autism, highlighting the importance of the gut-brain axis. The research aims to develop personalized treatments for individuals with autism experiencing gastrointestinal problems.
A recent study by Boston Children's Hospital found a significant increase in adolescent suicide rates during the pandemic. The analysis of data from 2015 to 2020 revealed a sharp rise in suicides among youth aged 10-19, with 14 states experiencing particularly high numbers.
Resilience and emotional well-being were higher among immigrant youth who lived with family members or had no family members, whereas those without family support expressed lower resilience and more stress. The study highlights the impact of household composition on the mental health of adolescent migrants.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in mental health visits in pediatric primary care, with significant rises in eating disorders and mood disorders. The study highlights the importance of screening and managing youth mental health conditions in primary care during periods of social isolation.
A randomized clinical trial found that outreach messages were minimally effective at promoting scheduling of adolescent well care visits, but had limited impact on completing visits. Efforts to address widening disparities are needed.
A study examines adolescent perspectives on TikTok's mental health benefits and risks, including how the algorithm enables unique connections with peers around interests and mental health struggles. Participants also discussed excessive use, peer comparison, and challenges in regulating their TikTok use.
Firearm-related deaths have surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of death among children under 19, with a widening racial gap. Secure gun storage counseling and hospital-based violence intervention programs show promise for prevention and reduction of all three categories of gun violence.
A new study found that many adolescent and young adult men with sickle cell disease are unaware of potential fertility issues associated with the disorder. The research suggests a need for accessible fertility education and testing options to address this knowledge gap, particularly in how SCD and treatments may affect fertility.
A new UC San Francisco study found that nearly half of young adults had mental health symptoms during the pandemic, with many unable to access therapy. The study highlights the importance of addressing barriers to care, including cost, stigma, and confidentiality concerns.
A new study finds that asymmetrical family structures, such as single-father or single-mother households, are associated with higher delinquency rates among adolescents. In contrast, symmetrical arrangements like mother-stepfather families show lower rates of delinquent behavior.
Research from Trinity College Dublin suggests that cumulative childhood trauma is a key indicator of suicide ideation among university students. The study found that 35.2% of participants reported adverse childhood experiences, and serious levels of suicidal thoughts were common.
Researchers found that adolescents who consumed ultra-processed foods were more likely to be obese, having abdominal and visceral obesity. The study used data from 3,587 US adolescents aged 12-19, dividing them into three groups based on the amount of ultra-processed foods in their diets.
This study examines shifts in adolescent overdose deaths, highlighting the growing threat of illicit fentanyl. Researchers analyzed CDC data to understand the impact of increased fentanyl use on this age group.
Adolescent drug overdose deaths nearly doubled in 2020 and rose another 20% in early 2021 compared to the 10 years prior, despite stable drug use rates. The increase is largely attributed to illicit fentanyls found in counterfeit pills, which can be deadly if ingested.
A new study published in Surgical Endoscopy found that adolescents with obesity who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy benefited from reduced obesity and concomitant organ damage, regardless of their age at the time of surgery. Additionally, adolescents with a family history of bariatric surgery had a higher weight prior to weig...
A study by Florida Atlantic University found that aggressive and disruptive children engage in frequent conflicts with classmates to strengthen their position in the group and enhance their popularity. However, this approach can amplify dangers and is not a healthy avenue to well-being.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that taxes on soda reduce consumption among adolescent boys, but not girls. The study analyzed data from Mauritius and Maldives and found that the tax decreased the likelihood of boys consuming soda, but had no impact on their frequency or body mass index.
A new study reveals that adolescents with severe obesity are reluctant to undergo metabolic bariatric surgery due to limited access to care and social stigma. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to inform young patients about this effective treatment option.
A study of 2,100 adolescent young carers in the UK found that 28% considered self-harming and 12% contemplated harming others. The pressure of caring for a family member or friend can lead to poor well-being and distress, particularly among girls.
A study by the American Psychological Association found that police stops in teens can lead to increased psychological distress, including anxiety, anger, and depression, which in turn can cause disengagement from school. Racial and ethnic minority youth reported more invasive police encounters than white youth.
A new study by NIH-funded researchers shows that adolescents with severe substance use disorder symptoms are more likely to develop prescription drug misuse and overdose risks in adulthood. Screening for substance use disorder in teens may help predict adult problems and prevent overdoses.
A recent study found that young people in rural areas carry handguns nearly twice as often as urban youths, with one in three reporting carrying by age 26. The study identified six longitudinal trajectories of handgun carrying, suggesting different cultural contexts and motivations for the behavior.
A recent study found that child abuse investigations by Child Protective Services (CPS) do not necessarily prevent poor sexual health outcomes in adolescent girls. In fact, the researchers discovered that girls who underwent investigation were more likely to experience adverse sexual health outcomes, including STIs and pregnancy, befor...
A significant proportion of youth with substance use and depression show early improvements in depression during treatment for substance use. Lower frequency of cannabis use at baseline is a predictor of early depression response. Both additional CBT or community treatment improved depression symptoms in those without an early response.
Research suggests that girls are more vulnerable to negative effects of social media on life satisfaction between ages 11-13, while boys experience this effect at 14-15 years old. Increased social media use predicts lower life satisfaction at age 19.