Research on the US population and its health. Covers cancer-trial sponsorship, myopia control, statistical literacy, and substance-use trends.
A new study by Boston University School of Medicine found that deaths due to guns have increased since 2014, with years of life lost rising due to gun violence affecting younger people more, especially men and non-Hispanic black populations.
Research reveals that communities experiencing demographic change moved towards pro-immigration Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, contradicting conventional wisdom. The study used a novel approach analyzing voting precincts instead of large geographic areas.
A peer-reviewed commentary warns of widening HIV infection disparities among Hispanics/Latinos, with the highest increase seen in gay and bisexual men aged 25-34. The article advocates for targeted investment in stigma reduction, treatment accessibility, behavioral interventions, and community leadership engagement to address the crisis.
A study published in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology found that 17% of children with food allergies are also allergic to sesame. The researchers developed a mathematical model to predict sesame allergy in children with food allergies, which could help clinicians identify this common allergy.
A new study found that calorie labeling in a fast-food restaurant franchise resulted in an initial small decrease of 60 calories per transaction, equivalent to a 4% reduction. This effect was short-lived, with calorie purchases increasing over time.
Kaiser Permanente research identifies a national trend of increasing deaths due to heart failure among US seniors, with over 647,000 people dying from heart disease in 2017. The study highlights the importance of addressing heart health in older adults as the population continues to age and grow.
A study found that Trump's immigration statements made Latino immigrants feel unsafe and anxious, leading to delayed healthcare access. The survey of 452 undocumented immigrants revealed a significant impact on their perceptions of safety and emergency care.
A new report outlines social determinants' critical role in population health, highlighting systemic inequalities that cut across multiple factors. The report recommends policy actions to address socioeconomic disparities in cancer incidence, including addressing income inequality and supporting targeted provisions.
A new study reveals high levels of genetic diversity in US Deformed Wing Virus (DWV), a leading cause of honey bee colony losses. The diverse lineages of this virus equally harm bees and complicate the development of antiviral treatments, which could be used to create a vaccine.
A recent lupus study reveals significant epigenetic differences between black women and other populations, impacting disease progression and severity. Researchers found that increased risk of lupus can be linked to epigenetic changes, which could lead to new treatments and better understanding of the disease.
A survey of 1,718 individuals from 69 countries found Hispanic and Latinx people willing to participate in genomics research studies, but with notable differences when segmented by country of birth and residence. Researchers emphasize the need for diversity in genetics research, including community-oriented approaches and cultural rele...
A study found high rates of 'cold-loving' fungus infection in frogs from the Peruvian Amazon, a region previously thought to be free from disease. The discovery suggests that important reservoirs of infection may exist beyond areas with high mortality rates, threatening global frog populations.
Research suggests that elite athletes, particularly football linemen in the US, have a higher risk of cardiovascular problems due to rapid weight gain during early training. Aerobic training can help offset this risk, according to a new study published in JAMA Cardiology.
A new study reveals that rural areas in the US are aging faster than cities, leading to greater climate change vulnerability. The research projects a divide in population age structure across the country, with thinly-populated counties in the Midwest and Rocky Mountains facing the most drastic aging.
The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute will lead the FDA Sentinel System, a national program monitoring drug safety using electronic health data. The institute's 10-year experience in developing and operating the system will be expanded with the addition of a new Sentinel Innovation Center.
Researchers estimate 19.6 million people have hypothyroidism, with individuals diagnosed more likely to develop sleep apnea. They also found patients undergoing hormone replacement therapy at the time were 2.51 times more likely to have a sleep apnea diagnosis.
A new study found that partial replacement, or hemiarthroplasty, is a viable alternative to total hip arthroplasty for treating displaced femoral neck fractures in patients over age 50. The study reported similar rates of outcome measures between the two techniques, with no significant difference in the incidence of secondary procedures.
A new study found that racial/ethnic mortality rate disparities have been widening since 2009, especially among infants and children. The study's findings suggest that addressing the root causes of these disparities is crucial to regaining lost ground and achieving health equity.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that diagnostic radiologists with lifetime ABR certificates were significantly less likely to participate in Maintenance of Certification (MOC) programs. Participation rates were only 13.9% among those with lifetime certificates, compared to nearly universal participation...
A recent UCSF study revealed that unauthorized immigrant recipients of liver transplants in the US have similar three-year survival rates as US citizens. Despite this, disparities in access to life-saving organs vary widely by state due to policies and provider attitudes.
Tropical Storm Kiko's circular area of strong storms was observed by NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite on Sept. 17, showing bands of thunderstorms over the northern and western quadrants. The storm is moving west-southwest at 6 mph with maximum sustained winds near 60 mph.
A study in Wisconsin adults found a positive correlation between childhood experiences of belonging, protection, and self-expression with reduced rates of depression and improved mental health. The research suggests that these early life experiences can have lasting effects on mental and relational well-being.
A study by Texas State University researchers found that horticultural community service programs significantly reduced recidivism rates. The research suggests that participation in these programs can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, leading to a successful transition back into society.
A new study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that minority students remain underrepresented in medical schools, despite increasing numbers over time. The study's findings suggest that while diversity in medical education has improved, it still lags behind the country's shifting demographics.
Despite an increase in medical school applicants from diverse backgrounds, racial/ethnic representation remains underrepresented among US medical students. The study analyzed data from 2002 to 2017 and found that absolute numbers and proportions of minority students have ticked up over time but haven't kept pace with the U.S. population.
A US land-use program has led to a rebound in white-tailed deer numbers and other wildlife in North Dakota. The Conservation Reserve Program provides permanent cover and high-quality forage, promoting fawn survival and increasing biodiversity.
Rutgers University studies reveal higher rates of cognitive impairment among older Chinese American women, linked to depression, chronic conditions, and lower education levels. The research emphasizes the need for policy interventions to address linguistic, cultural, and socioeconomic barriers.
A large study published in The BMJ found that even light physical activity reduces the risk of early death, with more intense activity having a greater impact. The study analyzed data from over 36,000 adults and found that spending 9.5 hours or more sedentary per day increases the risk of death.
A new study found that the prevalence of depression, cannabis use, and alcohol abuse among US former smokers increased from 2005 to 2016. The results show that former smokers are more likely to be male, married, and non-Hispanic white, with higher incomes and education levels.
A new study from Oregon State University finds that clinical research funding for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders is still underrepresented in the NIH budget, with only 0.17% of total funding allocated to projects involving these populations between 1992 and 2018.
Researchers found that highland and lowland populations had distinct craniofacial variations, with adaptations to climate and altitude contributing to the differences. The study suggests a complex interplay of environmental factors, rather than just genetic drift, in shaping human diversification in the New World.
Climate change and drought are exacerbating malnutrition outcomes in children worldwide, with stunting affecting at least one-third of children in Africa and South Asia. A new study maps the effects of drought on child nutrition, identifying areas most vulnerable to climate shocks and factors influencing vulnerability.
Rutgers researchers analyzed data from over 3,000 Chinese Americans aged 60+, finding widespread psychological and social stressors associated with caregiving distress and intergenerational conflict. The study highlights the need for improved research participation and health equity among minority groups.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital finds that more than one in four US adults with diabetes were not diagnosed, while nearly one in three received inadequate care. Younger, female, and non-white adults were particularly affected by disparities in meeting treatment targets.
A study found that older adults with moderately severe dementia living at home have worse health and more symptoms than those in residential care or nursing facilities. The research highlights the need for better understanding and addressing geriatric palliative care needs of people with dementia wherever they live.
A new study from the University of Texas at Austin develops a predictive model for sorting delinquent credit card users into categories based on their likelihood of paying back overdue debt. The model can help banks determine when to chase debts and when to let them go, reducing financial risks and uncertainty.
A new approach predicts US population and income changes at the level of individual counties, enhancing understanding of potential climate change scenarios. The model accounts for labor migration and various social and economic factors.
A study by NOAA researchers has identified four Pacific salmon population groups as especially vulnerable to climate change, including Chinook in California's Central Valley and sockeye in Idaho's Snake River basin. The populations face threats from elevations in stream and sea surface temperatures as well as ocean acidification.
A study found that current fine particulate matter pollution in the US is associated with an estimated 15,612 female deaths and 14,757 male deaths, resulting in a loss of national life expectancy by 0.15 years for women and 0.13 years for men. Lowering PM2.5 pollution could benefit the entire US population and reduce health inequalities.
A national study found that the 2016 US presidential election was associated with an increase in preterm births among Latina women, with nearly 1,342 additional male and 995 female preterm births recorded after the election. The study suggests potential links to anti-immigration policies.
A UTSA researcher examines how individuals use social media to engage with their cultures, finding that technology enables people to construct a 'third land' and enact ethnic identities. The study highlights the importance of online participation in shaping identity formation and sense of belonging among immigrant populations.
Research from University of Pennsylvania demographers finds that non-Hispanic white life expectancy has slowed or reversed since 2010, especially among 25- to 44-year-olds and women. The trend is particularly stark in rural areas, where mortality has risen despite progress seen in urban centers.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that racial residential segregation explains greater racial disparities in fatal police shootings. The ratio of Black to White victims of police shootings increases by 44% for each percent of a city's Black population that would need to move for an equal distribution.
Researchers developed two new algorithms that can identify patients at high risk of HIV and may benefit from preventive care. The models use data from patients' electronic health records to flag potential candidates for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication, which is over 90% effective in preventing HIV acquisition.
A study suggests that current USPSTF guidelines for African American smokers may lead to fewer screenings due to lower smoking pack-year history. Lowering the pack-year requirement and minimum age criterion could increase eligible African Americans for lung cancer screening.
A new study found that veterans with PTSD are twice as likely to die from suicide, accidental injury, and viral hepatitis than the general population. The study also identified age-specific mortality risks for veterans with PTSD.
Researchers found 27 new genomic variants linked to conditions like blood pressure, type II diabetes, and chronic kidney disease in diverse populations. The study aimed to understand how genomic variants influence disease risk in different ethnic groups.
A new study identifies 65 genetic variants in understudied minority populations, which could improve precision medicine for these groups. The findings highlight the need for equitable inclusion of diverse populations in genetic research to address chronic disease disparities.
A large-scale genetic study of diverse populations found that genetic mutations contributing to chronic diseases like diabetes vary across ethnicities. The research highlights the importance of including diverse populations in genetic studies to develop effective treatments for debilitating diseases.
A recent multicenter analysis found that including diverse populations in large-scale genomic studies is critical for reducing health disparities and accurately representing genetics-related disease risks. The study identified 27 new trait-variant associations, furthersing our understanding of the genetic architecture of traits.
A new paper provides an updated national birth weight reference for the United States using the most recent, nationally representative birth data. The study aims to improve clinical indicator of morbidity and long-term health outcomes in children and their mothers by addressing previous limitations.
A new study finds significant variation in triple-negative breast cancer incidence among black women born in different US regions. U.S.-born and Western-African-born women have the highest rates, while Eastern-African-born women have lower rates compared to both groups.
Researchers say education is primary driver of true demographic dividend, regardless of changing age structures. A new model proposes that a strong demographic dividend can be gained from more working-age individuals who are better educated.
A study of ancient DNA from Siberia, Alaska, and Canada found that a significant genetic contribution from Paleo-Eskimos shaped the modern populations in the region. The researchers discovered that Paleo-Eskimos interbred with southern Native peoples and influenced the spread of Na-Dene languages.
A large national study tracked the health of over 3,000 US veterans using a standardized tool, finding they scored worse in several areas, including anxiety, depression, and pain. The study's results provide valuable insights into the health of veterans relative to the general population.
A new statistical framework has been developed to evaluate the effectiveness of mosquito control programs across various time and space scales. The model, applied to a citywide intervention in Iquitos, Peru, found that insecticide spraying reduced Ae. aegypti populations by an average of 67%.
A study found that US counties with high slave populations in 1860 display higher pro-White bias among White residents and lower bias among Black residents. Structural inequalities, such as poverty and neighborhood segregation, also correlate with implicit bias.
A study found that Blacks, Asians/Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics are at increased risk of developing kidney, neurological, and blood problems following a lupus diagnosis. This highlights the need for greater awareness and early treatment in these populations.
A new NIH supplement explores the role of health information technology in addressing health disparities. Researchers discuss the potential of health IT to increase access to care, improve healthcare quality, and promote better patient-clinician communication.
Researchers reconstructed the red swamp crayfish invasion routes using mitochondrial gene analysis, revealing diverse introduction scenarios in North America and Europe. Genetic data suggest additional unrecorded introductions may have occurred from the US or other invaded territories.