Research on adult health and behavior. Covers suicide risk, regulated psilocybin, alcohol and cannabis use, and family and life choices.
A large cohort study found that fewer than 1 in 4 adults with overweight or obesity without diabetes remained on GLP-1RA treatment after 12 months. Treatment switching between GLP-1RA agents was common, reflecting active therapy management and the emergence of new formulations and weight management agents.
A low-cost digital intervention increased expectation to adopt health behaviors among adults using GLP-1RAs, with effects persisting for 2 weeks. The written microsteps intervention plus short video boosters may play a role in promoting sustained behavior change.
A recent study found that nearly 6 in 10 long COVID patients have recovered, but many adults over 35 continue to experience lasting symptoms. The study's authors suggest greater investment in understanding biological mechanisms may provide insights into pathways of persistence and potential targets for intervention.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found GLP-1 RAs produce significant weight loss across various subpopulations, including women who show improved outcomes compared to men. These findings have implications for clinical decision-making.
Exposure to alcohol-related social media content is associated with increased desire to drink among young adults, regardless of prior alcohol use. Social media influencers may contribute to normalization of alcohol consumption among this age group.
A new poll finds that pets contribute to healthy aging benefits for older adults, including increased sense of purpose and reduced stress. However, 31% of pet owners aged 50+ report that owning a pet strains their budget, mainly due to financial costs.
This cross-sectional study highlights critical gaps in accessible mental health services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The findings underscore the need for policy reforms to address systemic inequities and provide disability-informed care.
A nationwide study found that adolescents and young adults with prior cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. The study suggests that women with prior HSIL should be more closely monitored for cardiovascular disease and prevention strategies should be imple...
Nearly 2/3 of US adults reported using medication in the past 7 days, with similar prevalence of over-the-counter and prescription medications. This study emphasizes the reliance on these therapies and underscores the need for increased accessibility to address health disparities.
A cohort study found that historically Black college or university attendance was associated with improved cognitive function compared to predominantly white institution attendance. The association held true for those attending college before and after legal racial segregation and discrimination in education.
A study by NYU School of Global Public Health found that anxiety about aging contributes to accelerated epigenetic aging, with greater concern about declining health having the strongest association. This can lead to physical decline and increased risk of age-related diseases.
A cross-sectional study investigates the effect of a smartwatch feature that alerts users about high blood pressure, impacting a significant portion of U.S. adults without diagnosed hypertension. The study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 participants received notifications and subsequently sought medical attention.
Research highlights increased mortality risks among individuals with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy compared to the general population. The study's findings can inform public health strategies to address health disparities and excess mortality associated with developmental disabilities.
A new study found semaglutide to be an effective treatment for preventing secondary cardiovascular disease in US adults. The medication meets conventional thresholds when used alone, but its cost-effectiveness is improved with combination therapy.
A recent study found that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalizations are associated with a higher risk of cardiorespiratory events, with some conditions experiencing elevated risks up to 180 days after admission. The findings highlight the importance of increasing RSV immunization in adults to mitigate this risk.
A recent poll found that 42% of people over 50 haven't gotten either flu or COVID-19 vaccines in the past six months. The leading reason for not getting vaccinated was a lack of perceived need, despite clear evidence showing vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness and death in older adults.
US adults with uncontrolled blood pressure are often not taking antihypertensive medication, yet many have blood pressures within 10mmHg of the 2025 goal. Most adults with uncontrolled BP could achieve control through initiation of medication and lifestyle modification
A long-term study of over 2,500 individuals found that two out of three adolescents with IBS no longer met the criteria by adulthood. Factors such as sleep, mental wellbeing, gastrointestinal disorders, and family history played a role in the persistence of symptoms.
A cohort study of 47,000 adults found that males had a 63% greater risk of all-cause mortality compared to females after adjusting for demographic and behavioral factors. The study suggests intrinsic biological factors, such as sex hormones or immune response, may contribute to these sex differences in mortality.
A cross-sectional analysis of nationwide population data reveals that high-deductible health plans are associated with worse overall and cancer-specific survival among cancer survivors. The study suggests that financial disincentives for medical care may lead to delayed or foregone necessary care, ultimately worsening cancer outcomes.
The study analyzed US state-level adult obesity prevalence from 1990 to 2022, showing a significant increase to 42.5% by 2022 and forecasted to 46.9% by 2035. Disparities in obesity rates vary substantially by race and ethnicity.
A cohort study of St. Louis adults found that heightened cumulative lifespan stress and elevated inflammation were associated with shorter survival among Black participants. The findings highlight the need for policies addressing structural racism and treatments reducing inflammation to reduce mortality disparities.
A cohort study found that stronger family connections during adolescence can lead to improved social connections in adulthood. The study suggests that increasing family connection may help mitigate the effects of adult social disconnection.
A randomized clinical trial found that a smart speaker-based intervention significantly improved mental distress, quality of life, and diabetes self-care among older adults with type 2 diabetes. This easily implemented self-management strategy may enhance health outcomes in this population.
Cancer mortality rates have decreased for breast cancer and leukemia, despite increasing incidence, while colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of death among US young adults. Colorectal cancer surpasses lung, breast, and prostate cancers as the leading cancer-related death in people under 50 years old.
Researchers support using antibiotics for uncomplicated acute appendicitis due to low recurrence rates at 10-year follow-up. The treatment option is recommended for adult patients, reducing the need for future surgery.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found a high prevalence of interpersonal violence globally among transgender and gender-diverse adults. The findings underscore the urgent need for evidence-based violence prevention and response strategies across settings to address this issue.
A recent survey study found a significant association between generative AI use and increased depressive symptoms in US adults. The magnitude of the effect varied by age group, suggesting that further research is needed to understand the causal relationship and underlying factors.
Research reveals structural brain changes in older adults affect ability to shift between tasks and update environmental information. These changes may lead to deficits in behavioral adaptability, emphasizing the importance of identifying age-related brain structure changes.
An updated Cochrane review of 21 clinical trials involving over 2,100 adults found no high-quality evidence that cannabis-based medicines reduce neuropathic pain more than placebo. Small improvements were reported by patients using products with both THC and CBD, but these changes were not clinically meaningful.
A 2025 survey found that U.S. adults view opioid overdose as a serious problem, with differing opinions on who is responsible for reducing overdose rates. The study suggests varying preferences for future actions to address overdose among conservatives, moderates, and liberals.
A recent study by researchers at the University of California, Riverside, found that a specific brain region known as the caudate nucleus is strongly linked to physical strength in older adults. The discovery could help detect and prevent frailty before it begins.
Chronic pain prevalence differs between rural and urban adult cancer survivors, with rural areas showing higher rates despite having fewer resources. Limited access to pain specialists and insurance challenges contribute to these disparities.
A study by Penn State's Allison Fleming found that poor health is the primary driver of forced retirements. State vocational rehabilitation agencies may be able to help individuals with disabilities remain in the workforce longer, addressing issues such as financial and health costs associated with early retirement.
A single 20-30 minute online course can improve young adults' tolerance of uncertainty, leading to reduced anxiety and depression. The course, which took less than half an hour to complete, showed lasting effects on mental health even a month after completion.
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.
Approximately one-third of US adults met criteria for metabolic syndrome in 2023, with no significant change in prevalence between 2013 and 2023. Triglyceride levels demonstrated a modest increase over the past decade.
A study published in JAMA Network Open reveals low adherence to cervical cancer screening guidelines among commercially insured US adults, with only 7.3% following recommended guidelines. The findings suggest that guideline confusion and lack of incentives are contributing factors to this issue.
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.
A new study by Prof. Anat Zohar and Dr. Yochai Z. Shavit finds that older adults learn best through active learning methods, such as connecting new ideas to existing knowledge and experiences. This approach can boost memory, emotional well-being, and a sense of purpose in later life.
A cohort study of adults aged 45 or older with RSV infection found a significant excess risk of cardiovascular events over 1 year, comparable in magnitude to influenza infection. This highlights the importance of RSV as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and underscores the need for vaccination to mitigate this burden.
A cohort study found that participation in New York's medical cannabis program was associated with lower rates of opioid prescription during a 18-month follow-up. The study controlled for unregulated cannabis use, suggesting that medical cannabis may be an effective alternative to opioids for managing chronic pain.
Research finds that standard road crossing intervals are too short for older adults with limited mobility, resulting in a need for slower crossings. The study analyzed walking speeds of 1,110 adults aged 65 and over and found that just 1.5% can cross the road within the typical time allowed by pedestrian signals.
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.
A growing trend of antipsychotic medication prescription increases in older U.S. adults, with long-term care pharmacies being a primary source. Non-psychiatrist prescribers contribute to the trend, highlighting concerns over medication accessibility and oversight.
ConnectPlayWise offers a low-cost, in-house solution for delivering social-emotional learning (SEL) and reducing loneliness in care homes. The platform allows children aged 7–12 to connect safely with older adults through interactive mini-games, improving socio-emotional skills while fostering intergenerational understanding.
Withdrawal of tirzepatide after 36-week treatment led to 25% or greater weight regain in most participants within a year, reversing initial cardiometabolic parameter improvements. Continued obesity treatment is crucial for sustained benefits.
A Rutgers-led study reveals that exposure to housing hardship before age 5 may influence housing insecurity in early adulthood. Adults who experienced childhood housing insecurity showed similar probabilities of housing insecurity at age 22, even after their housing situation stabilized.
Adults with higher levels of physical activity during midlife and late life have a lower risk of all-cause and Alzheimer's disease dementia. This cohort study, part of the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort, found similar reductions in risk across different age groups.
A study published in PLOS One found that childfree people exist in developing countries, with varying prevalence rates across regions. The researchers analyzed data from over 2 million people in 51 countries and found a strong link between human development and childfree rates.
A new study finds that an AI-powered lifestyle intervention is noninferior to human coaching in achieving a composite outcome in adults with prediabetes and overweight or obesity. The AI-led Diabetes Prevention Program was noninferior to the human-led program in terms of weight reduction, physical activity, and HbA1c levels.
A 52% increase in complicated cases of diverticulitis was found among patients under 50, with a shift towards younger demographics and more aggressive disease presentations. Treatment strategies have evolved, but the exact causes of this trend remain poorly understood.
A cohort study found that night light exposure was a significant risk factor for developing cardiovascular diseases among adults over 40. Avoiding light at night may be a useful strategy for reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases.
A Norwegian study of over 21,000 adolescents and young adults found that those with persistent parental opioid prescriptions faced more than double the risk of persistent opioid use. The study suggests considering family-based approaches to managing pain conditions in adolescents and young adults.
A significant genetic correlation has been identified between childhood cognitive function and parental longevity, providing molecular evidence for the connection. The study found that shared genetic factors influence both early cognitive abilities and lifespan, with a genetic correlation of 0.35.
A surveillance study found that cancer incidence rates for 13 types of cancer rose in both younger and older adults worldwide, with increases related to obesity. This analysis suggests that research priorities should consider cancer types seen rising in both age groups.
A randomized clinical trial found that colchicine did not improve functional capacity or inflammatory markers in adults with long COVID. Researchers highlight the need for new therapeutic strategies for this condition.
The researchers are studying how brief, playful social interactions affect brain function and cognitive performance in older adults using advanced brain imaging techniques. They aim to develop simple and inexpensive interventions that can be implemented in clinical settings and in the community.
This study found that GLP-1RAs and SGLT2is offer the greatest cardiovascular benefits for adults with type 2 diabetes. The magnitude of benefit depends on baseline age, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and kidney impairment.
A new study published in PLOS One found that running with a stroller reduces vertical loading metrics by up to 17%, potentially decreasing injury risk. However, torsional loading metrics increased significantly, posing a potential trade-off.