Research on adult health and behavior. Covers suicide risk, regulated psilocybin, alcohol and cannabis use, and family and life choices.
Research found that children and adolescents need 40% more sucrose in a solution to detect the taste of sugar, with higher taste-detection thresholds and preferred sweeter levels. These age-related differences may result from distinct developmental trajectories with different underlying mechanisms.
Researchers found that severe COVID-19 is associated with endotheliitis and microangiopathy, leading to a multisystem inflammatory syndrome similar to Kawasaki disease. Additionally, obesity in adults under 65 years old increases the risk of intubation or death from COVID-19, but not for those over 65.
A study has identified genetic variants that may contribute to the development of chronic immune and inflammatory diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, in early childhood. The research found thousands of genetic variants driving gene expression across different conditions.
Dolphins under age 10 form close bonds with peers to develop essential skills and social savvy, reflecting future reproductive strategies. Males and females have distinct social behaviors, with males prioritizing friendly interactions and females focusing on foraging and preparing for motherhood.
A recent study by Case Western Reserve University reveals a correlation between states' voting patterns in the 2016 presidential election and decreases in health insurance coverage. States classified as 'red' had the highest uninsured rates, while 'blue' states saw a decrease of over 7.6 million uninsured adults.
This observational study found significant differences in health outcomes between high- and low-income middle-aged adults in the US and England. The results highlight persistent socioeconomic disparities in health, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these gaps.
A new study by Yale University researchers found that a nurse-delivered strategy to prevent falls among older adults reduced the rate of first adjudicated serious fall injury by nearly 10%. The approach also produced significant reductions in self-reported injuries, highlighting its potential in reducing fall-related harm.
A new study published in Pediatrics concludes that children infrequently transmit Covid-19 to each other or adults. With appropriate social distancing measures and community transmission rates considered, many schools can safely reopen in the fall.
A recent study found that breast feeding during infancy reduces lower limb fracture risk, while maternal smoking increases upper limb fracture risk in young adulthood. Exposures during fetal development and early life have lasting effects on bone health.
Researchers tracked eye movements of children aged 5, 8 and 10, and adults, finding they looked longer at faces congruent with heard voices. The study suggests a spontaneous amodal coding of emotions, enabling children to make connections between vocal emotion and facial expression from age 8.
The study found that female neutrophils have enhanced proinflammatory genes and responses to inflammatory stimuli compared to male neutrophils. Sex hormones may drive these differences, with males exhibiting increased mitochondrial metabolism in their neutrophils.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that even minor heart defects can lead to chronic diseases, such as arrhythmia and heart failure, in adulthood. Adults who underwent congenital heart surgery during childhood are more likely to experience lower levels of education and employment rates.
A new study by Brandi Woodell and Philip Schwadel found that emerging adults with same-sex attraction are twice as likely to disaffiliate from organized religion than their heterosexual peers. However, there was little change in prayer among the groups.
A nationally representative US adult sample found that low to moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a slower rate of age-related decline in cognitive function. The study's results suggest that moderate drinking may have protective effects against cognitive decline in older adulthood.
A new study finds that SNAP work requirements lead to a 21% drop in program participation among adults aged 18-49. Black adults experience a significantly higher loss of food assistance benefits compared to white adults, with disabled individuals also facing significant declines.
A new study finds that social interactions with top performers have a positive impact on weight loss success, while those with average performers have a negative effect. The study suggests using the successes of top performers to inspire dieters and avoid using overall group success as a benchmark.
A simulation model suggests that all tax designs would generate substantial health gains and lower health costs in the US. The tiered sugar content tax could generate the largest health gains and cost savings, particularly among younger adults, blacks, and Hispanics.
A new study found that early signs of type 2 diabetes can be detected in children as young as 8 years old through metabolic changes measured by blood samples. The research identified subtle differences in metabolism among participants who were more genetically prone to developing the disease later in life.
A long-term study found that young adults from disadvantaged neighborhoods show epigenetic differences linked to chronic inflammation, tobacco smoke, air pollution, and lung cancer. The researchers suggest that these differences may contribute to long-term health disparities among communities.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that a protein called AP-2 beta induces expression of KCTD1, which triggers kidney structure differentiation. The discovery could lead to therapeutic approaches to block reactivation of beta-catenin in the adult kidney to inhibit renal fibrosis.
A survey study found that US adults aged 18-44 experienced a decline in the frequency of sexual activity and an increase in the number of sexual partners. The study suggests factors associated with these changes include demographic characteristics, relationship status, and socio-economic status.
A new study suggests that steroid-sparing therapies can reduce the risk of developing perianal fistulas in children and young adults with Crohn's disease. These treatments have been found to be nearly 60% less effective in developing fistulas, and if they do occur, those treated with such therapies are 55% less likely to undergo surgery.
A study conducted in Finland found that women who experienced childhood trauma became mothers earlier than those with a more stable upbringing. The research used data from volunteers who served in the 'Lotta Svärd' organisation during World War II, showing an increased rate of early motherhood among affected individuals.
The US Preventive Services Task Force has concluded that current evidence is insufficient to make a recommendation regarding primary care-based behavioral counseling interventions to prevent illicit drug use in children, adolescents and young adults. Illicit drug use contributes to the leading causes of death among young people ages 10...
A new study found that mortality rates for epilepsy-related deaths did not decrease between 2009 and 2015, with a six-fold increased risk of death among young adults aged 16-24. The majority of epilepsy-related deaths (78%) were classified as potentially avoidable.
A study found that children exposed to severe institutional deprivation in Romania showed lower IQs and poorer neuropsychological functioning in adulthood. They were also more likely to exhibit ADHD symptoms if they had the most significant difficulties with prospective memory.
Autistic burnout is a chronic state of exhaustion, loss of skills, and reduced tolerance to stimulus caused by chronic life stress and inadequate supports. Research highlights the need for understanding, relieving, and preventing autistic burnout to improve health, quality of life, and independent living.
Researchers identified gene sets linked to protective responses in malaria vaccine trials, highlighting the role of TLR4 and NF-κB in immunity. Pre-immunization signatures also showed promise in identifying non-responders who may benefit from immune priming or interventions.
Research finds that children and young adult burn survivors are more affected by staring, bullying, and uncomfortable questions than physical discomfort. The study suggests that burn units should incorporate supportive strategies to improve social interactions and overall quality of life.
A study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a strong association between long-term exposure to segregated neighborhoods and decreased processing speed in midlife. The study analyzed data from over 1,500 black participants and found that high segregation was linked to poorer cognitive function.
A study published by The BMJ found that childhood body size is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes in later life. However, a larger early life body size may help protect women against breast cancer. The study suggests that maintaining a normal body mass index (BMI) in adulthood can reduce th...
A new study found that children's lack of digital health literacy can lead to misinterpretation of nutrition information and adoption of adult recommendations. Researchers recruited 25 children aged 9-11 who struggled to find credible sources and accurately determine portion sizes.
A new study found that childhood obesity increases the risk of coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes in adulthood, due to persistent effects of obesity over many years. Lowering weight in adulthood may reduce these long-term adverse effects.
A new study found that biases against physically dirty people take root in children as early as age 5 and persist into adulthood. The researchers also discovered that these biases extend to the sick, holding implications for people diagnosed with Covid-19.
A new Northwestern University study links childhood trauma and family dysfunction to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in adulthood. Adults who experienced high levels of adversity in childhood are more than 50% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
A 25-year study found that infants with high behavioral inhibition exhibited introverted adulthood and lower social interactions. Infants with high infant BI also showed heightened brain activity in response to errors during adolescence, associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.
A long-term study found that infant behavioral inhibition is linked to a more reserved personality and higher levels of internalizing psychopathology in adulthood. The research also identified a neurophysiological marker, error-related negativity, as a potential predictor of risk for developing anxiety disorders.
A study by New York University researchers found that nearly half of 17-year-old foster youth use counseling services and almost a third take medications for mental health issues. However, many report feeling unprepared to manage their mental health, highlighting the need for targeted support interventions.
A large observational study of over 33,000 women found that those born by cesarean section were at higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes in adulthood. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, controlled for various factors and found a significant association between cesarean births and increased risk of these conditions.
A study of young adult cancer survivors found that e-cigarette users were more likely to experience cancer relapse compared to non-users. The researchers analyzed national survey data and found a significant association between e-cigarette use and increased risk of cancer recurrence.
Researchers found that infants aged 12-15 months watched for longer when presented with incongruent speech patterns, suggesting they have formed expectations not only about infant-directed speech but also adult-directed speech. This study raises questions about the mechanisms of infants' expectations and social importance of different ...
A recent study published in Neuro-Oncology has made significant progress in understanding low-grade gliomas (LGG) in NF patients, which affect nearly a third of those with NF1. The research collaboration between NF experts and LGG specialists aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for these patients.
Researchers found that swallowing and reflex airway closure can disrupt sleep and trigger tachycardia in healthy adults. These defense mechanisms tend to coincide with spontaneous arousal from sleep, suggesting a potential link between sleep disruption and cardiovascular issues.
A 10-year longitudinal study found that young people given a religious upbringing at home by both parents have the strongest faith in God. In contrast, those with only one parent or no parental influence experience wavering faith.
A study analyzing data from 155 trans women and 55 trans men found that gender dysphoria typically starts in adolescence or early adulthood. The researchers identified a correlation between the age of onset and the likelihood of seeking genital gender-affirming surgery.
A new study highlights that appendicitis is often missed in emergency department visits, with a diagnosis rate of 3.8% to 15% in children and 5.9% to 23.5% in adults. The study found factors such as symptoms mislabeling, patient demographics, and diagnostic tests played a role in the missed diagnoses.
A recent study found an exponential increase in bowel cancer among adults under 50, driven by tumors of the lowermost portion of the bowel. The incidence has risen quickly in southern regions, particularly in the South West.
A new study finds that the Affordable Care Act has reduced racial and ethnic gaps in access to health insurance, but significant disparities remain. The analysis shows that Black and Hispanic Americans are still less likely to have health coverage and more likely to avoid care due to cost, compared to non-Hispanic whites.
The USPSTF now recommends screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) in adults aged 18-79, following a decade of rising cases linked to increased injection drug use. This updated guidance aims to reduce deaths from HCV, which exceeds those of other reportable infectious diseases.
A new study reveals that colon cancer is different in children, adolescents, and young adults, with younger patients more likely to have metastases outside the colon. The findings call for more intensive surveillance and treatment in those who have symptoms.
Research led by Duke Health finds wide swings in young adult blood pressure readings increase cardiovascular disease risk by middle age. The study suggests ignoring variability in blood pressure readings may mask an early warning sign of heart disease.
A study found that adult exposure to chickenpox is associated with a lower risk of developing shingles, but the protective effect does not last forever. The researchers suggest that previous assumptions about childhood varicella vaccination policy in the UK may need to be revisited.
A study on esports athletes' sleep habits found that most do not get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, leading to impaired mental health and performance. Esports organisations are now taking steps to address this issue through sleep interventions.
Researchers at Princeton University found measurable similarities in baby and adult brain activity during natural play, showing that babies' brains are 'on the same wavelength' as adults', leading to a feedback loop of influence between their brains.
Researchers found that adult female mice exhibit abnormal neuron activity when learning to respond to young pups' distress cries. The findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies for Rett syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder affecting brain rewiring in adults.
Researchers used a genomics tool to analyze twins' gut microbial strains before and after separating. They found that certain strains remained stable over time, even after years of living apart. The study suggests the possibility of shared microbes between non-cohabitating twins for decades.
A recent study found that persistent physical activity during leisure time from childhood to middle age was associated with higher fruit and vegetable consumption. Conversely, decreasing physical activity was linked to lower consumption, particularly in young adulthood. The study suggests that promoting holistic well-being by combining...
Research reveals that early-life deprivation is associated with reduced total brain volume and altered brain structure, even after years of environmental enrichment. This study suggests that early adversity can have lasting impacts on adult brain development.
Researchers found that Romanian adoptees who experienced institutional deprivation as children had smaller brains (8.6% smaller) compared to English adoptees. The study also showed a correlation between deprivation and lower IQ and ADHD symptoms, suggesting brain changes may play a mediating role.
Research at Cornell University found that food restrictions predict loneliness among children and adults, causing increased feelings of exclusion. Participants experienced 'food worries' and fretted about their dietary choices, leading to a degree of loneliness comparable to that reported by unmarried or low-income adults.