Population Studies

Simple digital check-ins improve outcomes for cancer patients, AFT study finds

A new study found that simple weekly electronic symptom check-ins with care teams significantly improves the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. The benefits were notable among patient groups that historically faced barriers to care, including Black patients and those with less formal education.

Patient engagement with open notes following the 21st Century Cures Act

The study found that patient engagement with open notes increased to 55% within two months of implementation, but significant sociodemographic disparities remained. Language barriers may also contribute to the digital divide in open note adoption.

Gut bacteria linked to frailty in older women

A recent study published in Nature Communications has identified a clear link between the composition of gut bacteria and frailty in older women. The research found that lower gut bacterial diversity and impaired function are associated with increased vulnerability to disease, falls, functional impairment, and death.

RURAL health study reveals key drivers of chronic disease in Franklin Parish in Louisiana

Researchers have identified high rates of overweight/obesity (82%) and hypertension (higher than statewide average) in Franklin Parish, with income levels linked to lower hypertension rates. Older residents are also more likely to have undiagnosed high cholesterol and diabetes.

Men may be more likely than women to receive later-stage diagnoses for many cancer types in the United States

A recent study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that men were more likely to be diagnosed with regional and distant stages of 20 nonreproductive solid cancer types in the United States. Men were significantly more likely than women to be diagnosed with regional tongue cancer, salivary gland cancer, oropha...

Prenatal acetaminophen (paracetamol) use and the risk of autism and/or ADHD among sibling-matched cohorts

A population-based study found no association between prenatal paracetamol exposure and risk of autism spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in offspring. The study suggests that positive signals from previous research may be due to familial confounding.

Obesity inequalities in England have widened since COVID-19 – with steepest increases in new cases in young adults

Rates of new obesity cases rose by 4% between 2019 and 2025, with the largest increases seen among young adults. The study also found significant disparities in obesity rates across sociodemographic groups and geographical regions, highlighting the need for deep-seated change to address the underlying factors driving obesity.

Study challenges reliability of widely cited Gaza mortality survey in The Lancet Global Health

A new study reanalyzes the Gaza Mortality Survey, identifying interviewer-level anomalies and inconsistencies with external demographic data. This raises concerns about the survey's representativeness and validity of its estimates of conflict-related deaths in Gaza.

Organ-preserving versus radical resection for ureteral urothelial carcinoma

A population-based study found that radical nephroureterectomy was associated with better overall and cancer-specific survival compared to kidney-sparing surgery. Tumor stage, size, lymph node dissection status, and patient-specific factors play a crucial role in individualized surgical planning.

New Brookings study: ICE surges have triggered massive job losses—including among Americans

A new Brookings Institution study found that ICE surges have caused significant job losses in cities where enforcement is most active. Between 51,000 and 297,000 American-born workers lost their jobs due to the surges, which also led to widespread disruptions throughout industries such as construction.

Life after work: Why social connections matter

A new study found that social connections can help compensate for the loss of mentally stimulating interactions linked to work, with different types of relationships benefiting women and men. The researchers used data from 27 European countries and found that strong social networks appear to buffer the cognitive disadvantage of not wor...

Melanoma cases and deaths highest among Florida’s older adults

A recent study found that melanoma disproportionately affects Florida's senior population, with older men experiencing twice as many skin cancer-related deaths as women. The study highlights gaps in prevention and early detection, particularly among men and non-Hispanic populations.

Online menopause information–seeking search patterns and commercial content over 2 decades

A 20-year study in the UK, Australia, and US reveals a significant increase in menopause-related search patterns focused on commercial products and services. This shift indicates a growing need for non-clinical guidance and support beyond traditional clinical encounters.

Bodies in fashion: Diversity is up, but the ideal stays the same

A recent study analyzing nearly 800,000 fashion images reveals that while representation has broadened, the typical female model body has remained remarkably stable. Diversity is primarily concentrated in a small number of models at the extremes rather than through a shift in the norm itself.

Researchers map genetics of blood lipids with unprecedented precision

A study published in Nature Communications identified over 50 previously unknown genes that affect lipid composition in the human body. These findings may provide a better understanding of aging processes and pathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular dysfunctions.

DNA floating in seawater is now enough to let scientists monitor the health of America’s dolphin populations

Researchers can now estimate genetic diversity of dolphins using environmental DNA (eDNA) from seawater samples, providing insights into population size and vulnerability to environmental changes. The study's findings suggest that repeated eDNA sampling can be used to monitor the health of dolphin populations.

New study finds higher dementia risk in insulin-requiring diabetes

One-year mortality among opioid overdose survivors

Large-scale multi-omics study aims to decode aging in the Indian population

Dads are dying after their kids are born, and no one is tracking it

A new Northwestern University study found that 60% of paternal deaths in Georgia between 2017 and 2022 were preventable, resulting from homicide, accidental injury, suicide, or overdose. The study also revealed that fatherhood appears to be protective for men, with lower death rates among those who are fathers.

Critical Path Institute awards $456,000 grant to advance next-generation therapy for rare glycolipid storage disorders

A $456,000 grant from Critical Path Institute will support the development of a brain-penetrant therapy for glycosphingolipid storage disorders. The therapy aims to address neurological symptoms in patients with current limited treatment options.

Firehorse superstition shows women’s education doesn’t affect family formation in Japan

Research finds that women's education level has a minimal direct effect on whether and when women form families. Education shifts the timing of family planning but does not prevent or avoid family formation. Structural barriers persist, including workplaces penalizing mothers and traditional marriage practices.

Teens three times more likely to start with alcohol than no/low alternatives

Young people aged 16-25 are three times more likely to start drinking alcohol than non-alcohol alternatives, according to new research from the University of Sheffield. Despite concerns about a potential 'gateway' effect, no evidence was found that no/lows impact young people's alcohol consumption.

Too hot to handle? Study explores how heat is reshaping US population shifts

A new study from Florida Atlantic University challenges the narrative that rising temperatures will drive Americans away, finding that heat alone isn't driving large-scale out-migration. Instead, population shifts are shaped more by economic opportunity, housing affordability and local quality of life than climate conditions.

Penn researchers use AI to surface unreported GLP-1 side effects in Reddit posts

Researchers identified patient-reported symptoms associated with GLP-1s, including menstrual changes, fatigue, and temperature-related complaints, that may not be fully captured in clinical trials or drug labeling. Nearly 4% of Reddit users reported reproductive symptoms, and fatigue was the second most common complaint.

The World’s happiest country launches a 100-year study to understand human wellbeing

The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare is launching a century-long research initiative to understand the roots of mental health challenges, loneliness, and social uncertainty. The study, Future Finland, will follow 200,000 families over time, examining how biological, behavioral, and social factors influence wellbeing.

Why doesn’t the US recycle more plastic? New study points to lack of access

A new study by the University at Buffalo reveals that unequal access to recycling facilities plays a key role in shaping plastic waste management practices in the US. Wealthier and more college-educated communities are more likely to have convenient access to large-scale industrial recycling facilities, making recycling easier and more...

Pesticides and cancer: A study reveals the biological mechanisms behind an environmental health risk

A study published in Nature Health reveals a strong link between pesticide exposure and the risk of developing certain cancers. The research shows that pesticide exposure increases the risk of cancer by 150% in areas with high levels of pollution, and highlights early biological effects before cancer develops.

Quebec’s residential energy use is better explained by demographics than building age, Concordia study shows

A Concordia University study found that demographic factors such as income and household size drive energy consumption in Quebec's major urban centres. The research used meter readings and census data to reveal strong links between social characteristics and energy use, with higher-income areas and larger households consuming more energy.

Ending birthright citizenship would impact Asians and Latinos most, study finds

A new study finds that ending birthright citizenship would have the largest relative growth of unauthorized births among Asians, while Latinos would comprise 93% of the U.S.-born population without legal status in 2050. The policy change could disenfranchise highly educated immigrants who contribute to the economy.

Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but more than 100 countries still fall short of the global maternal mortality target as progress slows worldwide

Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but progress has slowed in recent years and remains uneven across countries. Improvements in access to quality care could substantially reduce mortality, particularly in high-burden regions.

Walking pace found to strongly predict risk of death

A new study found that walking pace is a strong predictor of mortality risk, especially in people with existing health conditions. Combining walking pace with other physical measures improved mortality predictions, suggesting a simple and cost-effective way to identify high-risk individuals.

How do rapid socio-environmental transitions reshape cancer risk?

A study found North Korean defectors had higher risks of infection-related cancers but lower risks of breast, colon, and prostate cancers compared to South Korean residents. Over time, their cancer profile changed, suggesting adaptation to South Korean society.

University of Ottawa Heart Institute, the University of Ottawa and McGill University launch ARCHIMEDES to advance health research in Canada

The University of Ottawa Heart Institute, McGill University, and the University of Ottawa have launched ARCHIMEDES, a national health data platform providing Canadian researchers with secure access to diverse health data. The platform enables collaboration, supports advanced analyses, including AI algorithms, and prioritizes public trust.

How ancient attraction shaped the human genome

Researchers found that long-standing mating preferences led to sex-biased interbreeding, resulting in the loss of Neanderthal DNA on X chromosomes. The study reveals a complex social history of human evolution, challenging the idea that survival of the fittest drove human migration.

Neighborhood factors related to financial stress are linked to worse breast cancer outcomes

A new study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that neighborhoods with high housing costs and crowded households are associated with shorter breast cancer survival among women. The research team identified four specific variables that drive this relationship, including financial toxicity and stress.

Sandra Bond Chapman inducted into the storied Philosophical Society of Texas

Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, founder of Center for BrainHealth, was inducted into the Texas Philosophical Society for her groundbreaking work on cognitive neuroscience and brain health. Her leadership has propelled UT Dallas's Center for BrainHealth into an international hub advancing brain health research.

As tropical fish move north, UT San Antonio researcher tracks climate threats to Texas waterways

A UT San Antonio assistant professor is studying how climate change and urbanization affect freshwater ecosystems by tracking the expansion of exotic tropical fish species into northern regions. The project aims to provide practical tools for natural resource managers to protect Texas waterways.

Not all gigs are equal: Informal self-employment linked to lower pay, poorer health and instability

A new University of Michigan study finds large differences in financial outcomes, health and stability among formal and informal self-employed workers. Informal self-employment, including gig work, is concentrated among lower-income workers and faces significant challenges.

Education matters more than income to reduce premature adult mortality in India

A new study by IIASA researchers found that education has a stronger association with lower premature mortality than income or household wealth in India. Adults with higher levels of education are less likely to die prematurely, regardless of their economic status.

Spotting skin cancer sooner with the help of artificial intelligence

Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing AI models to accurately detect melanoma by analyzing images of skin abnormalities. The technology can help dermatologists identify cases that may require closer attention, leading to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes.

Shining a spotlight on cancer

A Mizzou researcher developed an antibody that attaches to and lights up EphA2 protein in cancerous tumors, allowing for non-invasive detection and identification of patients who can benefit from targeted treatments. This innovation could save time and money while advancing precision medicine.

Vitamin C may help protect fertility from a harmful environmental chemical

Researchers found that male fish exposed to vitamin C and potassium perchlorate showed improved fertility and less damage to their testes compared to those exposed only to the chemical. The study suggests a potential safeguard for individuals regularly exposed to these chemicals, including military personnel.

Maternal nativity, race, and ethnicity and infant mortality in the US

A population-based cohort study found that U.S.-born individuals had significantly higher odds of infant mortality, particularly among full-term births. Sudden unexpected infant death was a major contributor to these disparities, highlighting the need for investigation into underlying factors contributing to these disparities.

Citizens have greater trust in parliaments which have higher female representation

Research from the University of St Andrews found that increases in women's parliamentary representation are related to enhanced public trust in national parliament. The study, which analyzed data from 107 countries, suggests that broad representation within parliament drives trust-building effects.

Virtual care provision and emergency department use among children and youth

A population-based cohort study found that virtual sick visits to primary care were associated with a small increase in emergency department use in children aged 3 months or older. The study suggests judicious use of virtual primary care to manage acute illness in children is warranted.

New York K-12 enrollment down, but charter, homeschool rates double in a decade

New York state's K-12 enrollment declined by more than 250,000 students over the past decade, while charter schools saw a nearly tripled enrollment and homeschooling rates doubled. The decline is largely attributed to an aging population and shifting educational trends.

Study reveals fisheries danger zones for large seabirds

A new study led by UniSC has pinpointed areas and times when large seabirds like the Antipodean albatross are most at risk of injury or death from fishing longlines. The researchers identified winter hotspots in a latitudinal band near the Tropic of Capricorn, where juvenile and female birds face the highest risk.

Saving lives, not raising birthrates, is Eastern Europe’s best hope against population decline

A new study reveals that reducing mortality through large-scale investment in public health is a more effective and ethically sound strategy than encouraging people to have more children. By focusing on lowering mortality rates, countries can slow population decline and maximize the return on investment in their existing population.

Population-level trends in ADHD medication prescribing

A repeated cross-sectional study found a significant increase in stimulant prescribing for ADHD, with the largest acceleration observed among female adolescents and young adults aged 18 to 64. The study's findings are consistent with prior research but provide new insights into population-level trends.

New FAU research strengthens evidence linking alcohol use to cancer

Research from Florida Atlantic University strengthens evidence that alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, particularly for breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. Higher intake and specific groups, such as African Americans and those with obesity or diabetes, are found to be more vulnerable to the risks.

Sharp rise in ADHD stimulant prescriptions in Ontario, research finds

A new study found a significant rise in ADHD stimulant prescriptions in Ontario, with a 157% increase from 2015 to 2023. The study calls for better clinical guidance to ensure medications are prescribed appropriately and prevent adverse health effects.

Alcohol-free drinks popular during pregnancy – but new research shows guidelines are lacking

A recent study found that over 70% of pregnant women consume alcohol-free or low-alcohol drinks, primarily for safety reasons. However, many feel there is a need for clearer information and support on the suitability of these alternatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Researchers track how housing hardships during childhood influences housing insecurity in young adults

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.

Global number of Internet users increases, but disparities deepen key digital divides

The world's online population grew to 6 billion, while 2.2 billion remain offline, highlighting the importance of digital infrastructure, affordable services, and skills training to achieve universal connectivity. Deep digital divides persist, with uneven coverage, affordability, and skill levels across high- and low-income countries.

Research study suggests speaking more languages might keep you younger

A recent study found that multilingual individuals experience slower biobehavioral aging compared to monolinguals. The study analyzed data from 86,149 participants across Europe and showed that multilingualism is associated with a lower risk of accelerated aging.

What can a whale’s breath tell us? According to a new study, a lot about its health

Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and partners collected respiratory samples from 85 North Atlantic right whales using drones. The study found that the microbial matter carried valuable information about whale health, including distinct patterns linked to characteristics like robust versus thin whales.

Mizzou researchers create a new way to study heart valve stiffness

Researchers developed a 'humanized' model of aortic valve calcification, enabling testing of potential treatments. The breakthrough could lead to new therapies to stop or reverse calcium buildup, improving outcomes for people with heart disease.

A novel climate biostress model and sentinel system seeks to track global climate impacts

Researchers developed a Climate BioStress model to detect biological signatures of climate change. A Sentinel System (CBS3) is proposed to track climate stress indicators across biological, built, and social infrastructures.

How family size affects your health: New study reveals surprising patterns

The study found that having no biological offspring was linked to a higher risk of schizophrenia in both men and women. Having more than one offspring compared to one was associated with disease risks across multiple systems. Each additional offspring reduced mental and behavioral disorders by 7% and breast cancer risk by 18% for women.