Research on the US population and its health. Covers cancer-trial sponsorship, myopia control, statistical literacy, and substance-use trends.
New studies reveal that hypertensive individuals experience higher rates of cognitive decline compared to non-hypertensive populations. Additionally, African Americans with hypertension bear a disproportionate burden of disability and mortality associated with the condition. These findings underscore the importance of effective managem...
A new study reveals that adults in the US provide over a billion hours of unpaid caregiving every week, primarily provided by women. The researchers project a rise in the need for such care, with the value of unpaid care projected to increase to $839 billion by 2050.
Researchers found that up to 20% of a mosquito population's genome is subject to evolutionary pressures, leading to local adaptation and potential resistance to pesticides. The study provides insights into the contemporary evolution of mosquitoes and informs strategies to control populations.
A new study finds that as smoking declines overall, remaining smokers are actually less likely to smoke and more likely to quit. The study challenges the need to promote e-cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy, suggesting that current tobacco control policies have been successful in reducing smoking prevalence.
A new study on Kennewick Man's DNA reveals a close genetic link to Native American populations, particularly the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation in Washington. The findings challenge a previous study that suggested a connection to indigenous Japanese or Polynesian peoples.
A new study based on Kennewick Man's genome sequence shows that he is more closely related to modern Native Americans than to any other population worldwide. This contradicts earlier cranial morphology analyses that suggested a European or Asian ancestry, sparking controversy and legal battles over the skeleton's repatriation.
The study found that almost one-third of the U.S. population are informal caregivers, with women providing more unpaid care hours than men. Elderly people were frequently cared for by spouses, not adult children. The researchers also estimated the value of unpaid care nationwide at $691 billion in 2012.
The incidence rate of acute traumatic spinal cord injury remained relatively stable between 1993 and 2012, with a slight increase among older adults. The majority of cases were associated with falls, leading to a significant rise in spinal cord injuries among those 65 years or older.
A recent study by the NIH found that nearly 1 in 7 Hispanic/Latino adults have some form of hearing loss, with Puerto Ricans facing the highest risk. The study identified several factors contributing to this risk, including age, education level, and diabetes.
A study published in JAMA Network examines the association between genetic variants and cognitive impairment, revealing that intermediate-size copy number variations may negatively affect educational attainment. The research suggests a potential link between these genetic variants and intellectual disability.
Higher adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans was associated with a 14-23% lower mortality rate from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other diseases in a low-income population in the southeastern US. Participants with the healthiest diet had only about 80% of the risk of death compared to those with the least healthy diet.
A new study suggests that widespread diabetes screening in India using current methods could lead to massive waste of resources and unnecessary testing. The researchers estimate that only between 26 million and 37 million out of 567 million eligible individuals would meet the international diagnostic criteria for diabetes.
A new study projects that US residents' exposure to extreme heat could increase four- to six-fold by mid-century, driven by both a warming climate and a growing population. The research found that the average annual exposure to extreme heat in the US during this period is expected to be between 10 and 14 billion person-days.
A new study finds that nearly one-quarter of Americans over 65 are currently or at risk of being 'elder orphans', a vulnerable group requiring greater awareness and advocacy efforts. This population faces risks such as functional decline, mental health issues, and premature death due to lack of social support.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has launched a comprehensive public health approach to reduce the impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI). New research highlights four pillars: improving understanding of TBI's public health burden, reducing incidence through primary prevention, enhancing recognition and management o...
A rapidly expanding elderly population is projected to face significant challenges accessing high-quality cancer care in Mexico due to diagnostic delays and financial burdens. The country's aging population is anticipated to experience a 75% rise in new cancer cases by 2030.
A study found that nearly 80% of uninsured callers could schedule primary care visits, but the average cost was $160, which is unaffordable for many. Only 18% were told they could pay later, with a median payment plan of 61%. Expanding Medicaid would enable more people to afford basic healthcare.
Research suggests a strong association between short-term household debt and depressive symptoms, particularly among unmarried individuals, those nearing retirement age, and those with lower education levels. The study highlights the potential impact of debt on mental health and informs lending practices.
A recent DNA study reveals that all early Eskimos migrated from Alaska's North Slope, providing the first genetic link between Iñupiat populations and their ancestral homeland. The research also suggests two major migrations to the east from the North Slope at different times in history.
A new study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that the Northeast and West fared better than the Midwest and South in terms of changing socioeconomic status. Neighborhoods with higher percentages of Asians showed above-average change, while those with high numbers of blacks experienced below-average improvements.
A new study predicts that increased air conditioning adoption will lead to significant increases in energy consumption and strain on energy infrastructures worldwide. The authors call for action now to develop more energy-efficient and affordable air conditioners for poorer populations.
A new study reveals that monk parakeets invading Europe and North America share similar genetic patterns, indicating they originated from the same small area in Uruguay. The invasive populations have lower genetic diversity compared to native populations, which is unusual for species with successful invasions.
A new report by the Seismological Society of America estimates that 143 million Americans are exposed to potentially damaging ground shaking from earthquakes. The average long-term value of building losses from earthquakes is $4.5 billion per year, with California, Oregon, and Washington accounting for roughly 80% of losses.
A recent study by Duke-NUS Medical School researchers found an association between meals eaten away from home and high blood pressure in university-going young adults. The study, which surveyed over 500 participants, showed that pre-hypertension was prevalent in 27.4% of the population, with men more likely to be affected than women.
A recent study reveals nearly double growth in middle-aged hip replacements between 2002-2011, primarily due to population expansion. This trend poses significant challenges for healthcare costs, access, and future revisions.
A new US county-by-county map shows diverse land use patterns, with green counties operating efficiently and red counties consuming more land per capita. The study integrates satellite data with census population information to identify socio-economic patterns linked to land consumption.
Researchers analyzed DNA samples from 64 populations in Europe, Africa, and the Americas to uncover the genetic fingerprints of the slave trade and colonization. The study found that Americans have a complex genetic profile, with varying proportions of African and European ancestry.
As the US population ages, chronic subdural hemorrhage (SDH) is expected to become the most common adult brain condition requiring neurosurgical intervention. By 2030, hospitals and neurosurgeons may be under-manned to handle the projected increase in patients with SDH.
A study led by Benoît Laplante finds that consensual unions have become increasingly popular among higher-income groups in Latin America. University-educated women are no longer limited to having children out of wedlock, as fertility rates correlate with living in a conjugal relationship rather than its legal nature.
A study by Population Council reveals that consensual unions are becoming a common family arrangement for bearing children among educated women in Latin America. The trend is seen as a shift from limited economic and social opportunities, with educated women now entering these unions to have children.
A UCLA study identifies four key problem areas for Latinos under the Affordable Care Act: uninsurance of undocumented residents, growing Latino population in non-expansion states, increased demand on health systems, and language barriers. Insuring undocumented residents could improve access to care and reduce costs.
A study published in Scientific Reports identified a rural community in Brazil that still adheres to traditional sleep patterns, unlike many urban areas where artificial lighting has disrupted the natural day-night cycle. The researchers found that town residents and those living in the countryside have different preferred wake-up and ...
Researchers calculate vaccine coverage among exposed populations in California, Arizona, and Illinois as far below 96-99% necessary for herd immunity. The virus's effective reproduction rate is estimated between 3.2-5.8, emphasizing the importance of vaccination to control outbreaks.
A recent study found that nearly 290,000 older adults from the US volunteered abroad in 2012, a 60% increase from the previous decade. Host organizations are clamoring for baby boomer volunteers with professional skills to offer. The average age of these volunteers was over 64, and they spent an average of 13 weeks abroad.
A new study by Penn Medicine researchers found that even with optimal conditions, a large proportion of the US population would be unable to access a comprehensive stroke center within 60 minutes. The study suggests that population-based planning is crucial to develop systems of care given finite resources.
A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that people with a history of gout have a 24% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The researchers analyzed data from over 3.7 million people and found this protective effect, possibly due to uric acid's antioxidant properties.
A new study published in Neurology reveals that only up to 63% of the US population has access to a comprehensive stroke center within an hour, even under optimal conditions. Conversion of primary stroke centers to comprehensive ones could improve access for 23% more people.
A Northwestern University study found that community navigators can significantly improve healthcare outcomes for low-income, uninsured Spanish-speaking women. Despite facing numerous barriers, patients in the navigation program had shorter follow-up times and did not experience delayed diagnoses compared to English-speaking counterparts.
Researchers analyzed indicators of conflict and intergroup interaction in Eastern North America, finding that warfare varied widely over time and space. They identified patterns across extremely large areas, including fortified settlements and skeletal remains of warfare victims.
The rate of Latino physicians per 100,000 Latinos in the US has declined by 22% since 1980, according to a new study. The shortage of culturally familiar doctors negatively affects healthcare for U.S. Latinos, who face barriers to quality care due to language and cultural barriers.
The NELSON trial found that individuals with better health profiles and younger age were less likely to participate, but the study's findings remain relevant due to modest differences. The trial showed a higher mortality rate among eligible non-participants compared to participants.
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that 25% of homeless people surveyed in Toronto had vision problems, including blindness, four times higher than the general population. Glasses or contact lenses would help only two in five individuals with vision issues.
The Affordable Care Act's health insurance cooperatives have had a tangible impact on the marketplace, offering more products and lower-priced plans than traditional insurers
A meta-analysis of 18 studies found that injectable progestin DMPA is associated with a 50% higher risk of HIV infection among African women. In contrast, other hormonal contraceptives showed no significant increased risk.
The ORNL model provides unprecedented county-level predictions of future US population growth, with implications for urban planning and climate change adaptation. The study finds that counties in California and Arizona are projected to experience high levels of sprawl growth by 2030 and 2050.
A public health program promoting EPT increased treatment use, reducing chlamydia and gonorrhea rates, while also contributing to a state-wide reduction in both diseases.
A team of scientists evaluated native fine-leaved Festuca species for potential use in urban landscapes. The study found that tall-statured, multicolored Festuca germplasm shows promise as low-input ornamental grasses in the western United States.
A Baylor University study of five large Jewish urban communities found that affiliated Jews and those attending synagogue report significantly better health than secular or non-practicing Jews. The study used data from 5,000 Jewish adults in four major population centers.
The LongROAD project tracks 3,000 active drivers aged 65-79 years for 5-10 years to shed light on aging drivers' safety needs. Findings will inform future interventions to maintain independence.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that liver cirrhosis is more common than previously thought, affecting approximately 633,000 adults in the US yearly. The study also revealed that 69% of these individuals may not be aware they have the disease.
The American Diabetes Association has lowered its recommended BMI cut point for type 2 diabetes screening in Asian Americans from 25 kg/m2 to 23 kg/m2. This change is based on evidence that many Asian Americans develop the disease at lower BMI levels than other populations.
A recent study using 23andMe data reveals fine-scale differences in US genetic ancestry, reflecting African, European, and Native American influences. The research provides new insights into the complex history of the US population, shedding light on the impact of slavery, immigration, and colonization.
Researchers analyzed 160,000+ genomes to uncover subtle differences in genetic ancestry across US regions. Regional ancestry differences reflect historical events like immigration waves.
A new study by RAND Corporation found that unauthorized immigrants who previously been removed from the US are 2.5 times more likely to be rearrested after leaving jail. Researchers also found that these individuals were rearrested more frequently and sooner, highlighting the need for targeted immigration enforcement efforts.
Researchers identify a proactive approach to help low-SES smokers quit smoking, with telephone-based motivational counseling and free nicotine replacement therapy increasing quit rates. The study found that community resources, such as physical activity and job counseling referrals, were crucial in promoting tobacco cessation.
A randomized clinical trial found that a telephone-based motivational counseling intervention with tobacco treatment specialists increased quit rates among low-SES adult smokers compared to usual care. The program also showed promise in addressing social context factors related to smoking, with women, blacks, and those living in low-in...
A team of Penn State engineering students designed workstations that allow users to share space while maintaining their own work areas. The researchers used simulations to determine optimal table shapes and sizes for accommodating groups of different sizes, ultimately publishing their findings in Applied Ergonomics.
A genetic study found shared mutations between house dust mite populations in the US and South Asia, indicating migration across continents. The discovery highlights the potential for these tiny creatures to travel long distances and establish new populations.
A small group of hunter-gatherers in Southern Africa remained isolated and distinct from other African ethnicities for most of the past 150,000 years. Their genetic history reveals limited gene flow with non-Khoisan populations.
A large cohort study found that women with celiac disease do not report fertility problems more often than women without the condition. However, rates of infertility were slightly higher among women diagnosed with celiac disease at a younger age, likely due to increased concern prompting earlier consultations.