Population Studies
Articles tagged with Population Studies
Large-scale multi-omics study aims to decode aging in the Indian population
One-year mortality among opioid overdose survivors
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A conservative dialysis strategy and kidney function recovery in dialysis-requiring acute kidney injury
A conservative dialysis approach resulted in faster and more complete kidney function recovery in patients with acute kidney injury. The study's findings suggest that this strategy could be a viable option for treating dialysis-requiring AKI, warranting further investigation.
Informal human milk sharing among US mothers
A large sample of first-time mothers in the US reported informal human milk sharing, with 1 in 27 participants feeding their infants shared milk. Pediatric practitioners should be aware of this trend and counsel families on risks and recommended risk-reduction strategies.
Study finds food security resources for refugees resettling in Australia are accurate but too difficult to read
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that most informational materials meant to assist refugees in Australia are written above the recommended reading level. The study evaluated 184 government and community-developed resources, finding nearly all were accurate but 96% too difficult for refug...
Research finds higher rare risk of heart complications in children after COVID-19 infection than after vaccination
A new study analyzing linked electronic health records found that COVID-19 infections led to a higher and longer-lasting risk of rare heart complications, including myocarditis and thrombocytopenia, compared to vaccination. The research team estimated an additional 2.24 cases of myocarditis per 100,000 children after COVID-19 infection.
Leading the way in targeted cancer treatment
Researchers at the University of Missouri are exploring the use of extracellular vesicles to target lung cancer. By manipulating these tiny messenger particles, scientists can deliver specific instructions to kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.
Health data for 57 million people in England show changing patterns of heart diseases before, during and after the pandemic
The study analyzed linked health data for over 57 million people in England, finding drops in cardiovascular disease incidence during the pandemic. However, diagnoses rates have returned to pre-pandemic levels, with increased cases of heart failure and inflammation of heart tissue observed after the pandemic.
Mizzou researchers help farmers prevent and manage livestock losses
University of Missouri researchers are helping farmers prevent disease outbreaks by teaching biosecurity practices, such as hand sanitizing and wearing farm-dedicated shoes. They also provide guidance on safe composting methods to dispose of dead livestock, reducing the risk of disease spread.
Spanish-language counseling cuts heavy drinking among latinx adults by 22%, UC San Diego study finds
A culturally adapted behavioral intervention delivered in Spanish by community health workers significantly reduced unhealthy alcohol use among Latinx adults. Participants showed nearly twice the reduction in heavy drinking days compared to those who received an educational booklet.
Medicaid expansion linked to improved long-term survival in cancer patients
A recent study published in Cancer Discovery found that Medicaid expansion is associated with improved five-year cause-specific and overall survival rates among cancer patients. The research showed significant improvements in survival rates for patients living in rural areas, high-poverty areas, and those with higher-mortality cancers.
Report: Cardiovascular diseases caused 1 in 3 global deaths in 2023
The latest Global Burden of Disease study reveals a significant increase in cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden worldwide, with CVD causing one in three deaths globally. The report estimates that 79.6% of all CVD deaths are attributable to modifiable risk factors, which has increased globally by 97.4 million since 1990.
Study shows number of childless women in the US continues to rise
A study by University of New Hampshire reports a significant increase in childless women, with 5.7 million more women of prime child-bearing age than expected in 2024. This shift has contributed to 11.8 million fewer births than expected over the past 17 years.
New guideline standardizes consent for research participants in Canada
A new Canadian guideline sets out 75 core elements for participant consent forms to ensure transparency and understanding. The guidance aims to simplify the approval process for all involved in clinical research across Canada.
Young adult intelligence and education are correlated with socioeconomic status in midlife
A new study published in PLOS One found that young adult intelligence, education, and parental education are strongly correlated with midlife socioeconomic status. The study of over 6,000 Danish men suggests that educational attainment and IQ at age 12 are the most powerful predictors of midlife SES.
Ambient air pollution and the severity of Alzheimer disease neuropathology
A study found that fine particulate matter air pollution exposure is associated with increased dementia severity and Alzheimer disease neuropathologic changes. Population-based studies are needed to better understand this relationship.
There is a hidden simplicity behind how people move
The study reveals that when physical constraints are removed, human mobility follows a power-law pattern, decreasing steadily with distance. The researchers found this pattern across five orders of magnitude, from 10 meters to hundreds of kilometers.
‘Peak water security’ crisis, Texas A&M researcher warns
Researchers warn of declining access to safe and reliable water in the US, urging better tracking tools and policy reforms. A new tool, Household Water Insecurity Experiences (HWISE), measures water insecurity in over 1,000 households across the country.