Young People
Articles tagged with Young People
University of Pennsylvania awarded Institutional Challenge Grant to advance partnership on youth homelessness in Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania has been awarded a three-year, $650,000 Institutional Challenge Grant to support a research-practice partnership focused on addressing youth homelessness across the Commonwealth. The partnership aims to examine the effectiveness of state policies in reducing homelessness and create an evidence-based polic...
Younger teens most at risk for inhalant use, new study finds
A new study from the University of Mississippi found that younger teens are most likely to try psychoactive inhalants like nitrous oxide. The study also linked inhalant use to certain behaviors such as smoking tobacco and getting into fights, with teenage girls having the highest odds of developing inhalant use disorder.
Survey: Kids’ mental health, behavior top triggers of parent stress
A new national survey found nearly all parents (97%) felt stress related to parenting in the past month, with children's behavioral issues and emotional/mental health being top sources of that stress. The Kids Mental Health Foundation offers free resources to help parents build healthy homes and reduce stress.
Bowel and ovarian cancer cases rising among younger adults in England
Cancer cases are on the rise among younger adults in England, with a significant increase in bowel and ovarian cancer rates. The study found that excess weight is a key contributor, but it's unlikely to fully explain this trend, as trends in risk factors such as smoking and diet have been stable or improving over the past decade.
Children and young people from deprived areas less likely to gain access to mental health care
A new study found significant socio-economic inequalities in accessing mental health care, with children from deprived areas more likely to have their referrals rejected or experience worse clinical outcomes. Younger children under 11 are also less likely to receive help, hindering early intervention efforts.
Distance traveled among out-of-state Chicago abortion fund callers
The study found that out-of-state Chicago Abortion Fund callers traveled more than 3 times the distance to Illinois after Dobbs compared to before. These callers were also more likely to have private or no insurance, be from rural areas, and receive hospital-based care during their pregnancy.
Breastfeeding duration and cognitive performance among youths
A cross-sectional study found no association between longer breastfeeding duration and cognitive performance in unadjusted models, however, a positive correlation emerged after controlling for socioeconomic factors. Longer breastfeeding durations were more common among low-income families, highlighting the need for continued support.
Suicide mortality among adolescents and young adults after launch of a suicide and crisis lifeline
The study found significant reductions in suicide mortality among adolescents and young adults after the US launched its 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Larger reductions were observed in states with the highest adoption of the 988 Lifeline services.
Pediatric investigation study reveals urbanization shapes mental health of youth in China
A recent study found that children from rural China are more prone to emotional issues, while urban children show more behavioral problems. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and underscore the impact of environment on mental health outcomes.
Bullying, state policy, and mental health symptoms in gender-diverse youths
A cohort study found that bullying and restrictive legislation were associated with higher rates of psychotic-like experiences in gender-diverse youths. The study suggests that supportive environments and policies can help alleviate mental health concerns among this population.
Heavy drinking, alcohol use disorder, and obesity
A nationally representative study found nearly 1 in 10 U.S. adults with heavy drinking and obesity conditions, highlighting the need for preventive efforts in younger and middle-aged adults without insurance or Medicaid coverage to curb rising rates of alcohol-associated liver disease deaths.
Young-onset colorectal cancer mortality by education
A nationwide study reveals that individuals with lower educational attainment are more likely to die from colorectal cancer at a younger age. The disparity in young-onset CRC mortality nearly doubled over the past three decades among those with 12 years or less education compared to those with 16 or more years of education.
Online searches for gun-related harm
A notable minority of US youth and young adults, particularly those facing structural disadvantages and mental health distress, engage in intentional online searches for gun-related harm. Public health strategies combining digital interventions with structural reforms offer promise to reduce gun-related harm among vulnerable populations.
New partnership broadens reach of Pennington generation study
The Pennington Generation study aims to explore the impact of physical activity, nutrition, and sleep on children's health and growth. The study will examine how these behaviors relate to weight gain and obesity over time.
Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
“Better design instead of blanket bans”
The report proposes new strategies for digital safety, including AI-powered tools to detect and intervene in harmful situations. Experts also recommend involving children and youths in the design process, particularly schools, to promote agency and well-being.
Psychotherapists aren’t prepared to treat eating disorders in boys and men
A binational study found most psychotherapists lack adequate knowledge and confidence treating eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia in boys and men. Clinicians identified a need for specialized training on assessing unique risk factors, tailoring treatment to male-specific experiences, and addressing stigma.
Screen time among children and adolescents has increased over three decades – especially after COVID-19 pandemic
A new systematic review found that screen time use among children and adolescents has dramatically risen over the past three decades, with a clear increase occurring after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The review analyzed 60 peer-reviewed studies and found that older children and adolescents reported higher screen time than young...
Video training helps young adults with disabilities navigate romance
Researchers developed a video modeling program to enhance romantic relationship skills in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that participants significantly improved their decision-making skills across four relationship domains, averaging 76% accuracy after the intervention. The findings high...
Young people’s critical capacity regarding digital advertising reproduces social inequalities
A recent study by Pompeu Fabra University reveals that socioeconomic conditions significantly impact young people's ability to detect algorithmically personalized advertising. The study finds that lower socioeconomic status is linked to decreased critical capacity, exacerbating structural inequalities.
Youth in foster care with disabilities may need tailored services that support the transition into adulthood
A recent study by Melissa Villodas and Gilbert Gimm found that youth in foster care with disabilities received special education and mentoring services at higher rates than others. In contrast, those without disabilities used room and board financial assistance more frequently. The researchers' interdisciplinary collaboration aims to i...
Sleep health dimensions from wearables and transdiagnostic mental health in young adolescents
The study identified six sleep health dimensions in young adolescents: irregularity, timing, duration, social jetlag, weekend oversleep, and continuity. Greater irregularity was associated with higher concurrent transdiagnostic mental health symptoms, while shorter duration was linked to increased symptoms at follow-up.
Physical activity improves work ability
A 45-year study found that early life leisure-time physical activity is linked to better work ability in late adulthood. Higher levels of activity throughout the lifespan contribute significantly to work ability, with a dose-response association observed in late adulthood.
Geographic, racial, and sex disparities in time to treatment for early-onset colorectal cancer
A cross-sectional analysis found significant delays in treatment initiation for early-onset colorectal cancer in all-urban populations, with young male, Asian or Pacific Islander, Black, or Hispanic patients disproportionately affected. These delays, exceeding 90 days, challenge assumptions of uniformly timely access in urban settings.
Teens and young adults with ADHD and substance use disorder face treatment gap
A new study in 15- to 25-year-olds finds that ADHD treatment improves outcomes for young people with ADHD and substance use disorder, including a 30% decrease in mortality. Despite being diagnosed with both conditions, young people are less likely to receive ADHD medication.
Specific gut bacteria species (R inulinivorans) linked to muscle strength
Research found that Roseburia inulinivorans is positively associated with muscle mass and strength in both young and older adults. The study suggests that R inulinivorans may play a causal role in muscle strength, with notable increases in forelimb grip strength and larger muscle fibre size in mice treated with the bacteria.
Students with lower self-control tend to procrastinate with short-form video; sleep suffers, but not grades, study finds
A study found that college students with lower self-control and habitual use of short-form videos experience poorer sleep health and higher stress, but not diminished academic performance. Researchers suggest that institutions of higher learning and society can help by providing holistic mental health and student health outreach services.
Smartphone use during school hours and association with cognitive control in youths ages 11 to 18
A cross-sectional study found that smartphone use during school hours is associated with reduced cognitive control in youths aged 11-18. The study highlights the need for school-level policies and digital literacy programs to address habitual smartphone-checking behaviors that fragment attention.
Study finds teens spend nearly one-third of the school day on smartphones, with frequent checking linked to poorer attention
A new study found that middle and high school students spend nearly one-third of the school day on their smartphones, with frequent checking linked to weaker attention and impulse control. The study also found that students who checked their phones more frequently showed poorer cognitive control, a key skill for learning and academic s...
Greaux Healthy Day declared in Lake Charles: Pennington Biomedical’s Greaux Healthy Initiative highlights childhood obesity challenge in SWLA
The Greaux Healthy initiative, launched by Pennington Biomedical Research Center, aims to prevent and treat childhood obesity in Louisiana. Studies show that childhood obesity is a national healthcare crisis in Louisiana, with over 1 in 3 children living with overweight or obesity.
Online doctors – popular but price-sensitive for young people
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that young adults are more likely to consume healthcare through online apps, especially when no patient fees are charged. Women tend to have higher consultation rates than men, who experience a sharper decline in consultations once they turn 20.
Do muscles remember being weak?
New research reveals that skeletal muscle retains a 'molecular memory' of repeated disuse, which differs between young and old muscles. Younger muscles show resilience, while older muscles become increasingly susceptible to atrophy. The study provides insights into how muscle responds to inactivity and its potential for recovery.
Adolescent cannabis use may follow the same pattern as alcohol use
A new study based on extensive data from Swedish school surveys found that changes in average cannabis use among adolescents are reflected across the entire group. The distribution of cannabis use has remained highly stable over time, with increases or decreases occurring in parallel across all user groups.
Girls as young as nine know influencer culture is fake, yet it still shapes how they see themselves
A new study finds that influencer culture affects girls' self-perception, with many recognizing the inauthenticity of online content yet still feeling pressured to conform. Researchers suggest that shifting attention away from individual girls and onto the culture that profits from their insecurity is key to change.
Exposure to alcohol-related social media content and desire to drink among young adults
Exposure to alcohol-related social media content is associated with increased desire to drink among young adults, regardless of prior alcohol use. Social media influencers may contribute to normalization of alcohol consumption among this age group.
Zero-alcohol ads hook teens
A study of 382 adolescents aged 15–17 found that zero-alcohol advertisements significantly increased their intentions to try full-strength versions. Teenagers who liked the ads showed more positive attitudes toward the brands and clearer intentions to drink.
More time spent on social media linked to steroid use intentions among boys and men
A new study found that social media use, particularly exposure to muscularity-focused content and body comparisons, is strongly associated with increased intentions to use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Young men who frequently view muscular bodies or advertisements promoting muscle-building supplements also report stronger intentions.
Cardiovascular events in women with prior cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion
A nationwide study found that adolescents and young adults with prior cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. The study suggests that women with prior HSIL should be more closely monitored for cardiovascular disease and prevention strategies should be imple...
New guidelines from NCCN detail fundamental differences in cancer in children compared to adults
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has published new guidelines for Pediatric Soft Tissue Sarcomas, highlighting the unique characteristics of this childhood cancer. The guidelines focus on rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a subtype with varying genetic changes that influence treatment outcomes.
Study finds link between sugary drinks and anxiety in young people
A recent study published in Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics has identified a link between high sugary drink consumption and anxiety symptoms in adolescents. The research team found consistent associations between energy-dense but nutrient-poor drinks and increased anxiety rates.
Telehealth improves access to genetic services for adult survivors of childhood cancers
A recent clinical trial found that remote telehealth services increased the uptake of genetic counseling and testing in adult survivors of childhood cancers. The study showed a significant impact on reducing morbidity and mortality by driving earlier detection of subsequent cancer.
Adolescent and young adult requests for medication abortion through online telemedicine
The study found increased requests for medication abortion among adolescents in states with gestational bans and parental consent requirements. Young adults also sought more medication abortion services post-Dobbs, with the highest demand in states with restrictive abortion laws.
Young carers falling behind by end of primary school
A national study found young carers in England consistently experience educational disadvantages compared to non-carer peers. By the end of primary school, they were 35% less likely to reach expected standards across reading, writing and maths, with lower GCSE achievement rates.
Prevalence of youth overweight, obesity, and severe obesity
The study found excess adiposity remained highly prevalent among US youths in 2024, with certain racial and ethnic subgroups affected more. The prevalence of severe obesity was also higher for these subgroups.
Mortality among youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy
Research highlights increased mortality risks among individuals with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy compared to the general population. The study's findings can inform public health strategies to address health disparities and excess mortality associated with developmental disabilities.
IBS in adolescence is usually resolved – and can be influenced
A long-term study of over 2,500 individuals found that two out of three adolescents with IBS no longer met the criteria by adulthood. Factors such as sleep, mental wellbeing, gastrointestinal disorders, and family history played a role in the persistence of symptoms.
Generative AI applications use among us youth
A cross-sectional study found that up to half of adolescents in the US were using generative AI apps, while a small subset engaged in heavy use. The study highlights the need for future research on individual differences in GenAI use and its impacts on adolescent development.
Trends in US live births by race and ethnicity, 2016-2024
Non-Hispanic white births now constitute less than half of US births, while Hispanic births exceed one-fourth. These shifts reflect declining fertility across most groups, contrasted with immigration trends and younger ages among Hispanic women that sustain overall birth rates.
How does TikTok shape young peoples' dietary preferences?
A study found that TikTok influences dietary habits by leveraging algorithmic mechanisms, entertainment content, and users' emotional connections. The platform affects food preferences, dining choices, and recipe evaluations among young people.
Study finds longer hospital stays and higher readmissions for young adults with complex childhood conditions
A new study found that young adults with complex childhood-onset conditions experience longer hospital stays, higher readmission rates, and greater use of resources in adult hospitals. These patients account for 6.7% of young adult hospitalizations but occupy 10.7% of all hospital bed-days.
Tailored treatment approach shows promise for reducing suicide and self-harm risk in teens and young adults
A new study demonstrates a health care approach matching treatment intensity to individual risk levels can significantly reduce self-harm and depression among at-risk adolescents and young adults. The randomized clinical trial found significant reductions in self-harm behaviors, improved patient satisfaction, and high follow-up rates.
Leading cancer deaths in people younger than 50 years
Cancer mortality rates have decreased for breast cancer and leukemia, despite increasing incidence, while colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of death among US young adults. Colorectal cancer surpasses lung, breast, and prostate cancers as the leading cancer-related death in people under 50 years old.
Prenatal and early-life pollution exposures may influence childhood blood pressure patterns, ECHO study finds
A new study from the ECHO Program found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) before and after birth may influence childhood blood pressure patterns. High blood pressure in children is a growing concern worldwide, with nearly 80% increase over two decades.
Adverse prenatal exposures linked to higher rates of mental health issues, brain changes in adolescents
Children with adverse prenatal exposures showed higher rates of behavior problems, faster cortical thinning, and more depressive symptoms than children with fewer APEs. Researchers found a persistent association between multiple APEs and increased odds of mental health problems as kids grew older.
Quadrivalent HPV vaccine and high-grade vulvovaginal lesions
A new study found that quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is associated with a reduced risk of high-grade vulvovaginal lesions. Expanding HPV vaccination, especially at younger ages, may help prevent these lesions.
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.
Journal highlights need to transform girls’ mental health care
A special issue of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America seeks to transform how clinicians, educators, and policymakers think about girls' mental health by focusing on systems that support or fail to support them. The issue explores intersectionality, trauma-informed approaches, and the impact of social media on bod...
Jeonbuk National University study shows positive parenting can protect adolescents against self-harm
A recent study by Jeonbuk National University researchers found that positive parenting styles can significantly reduce the risk of self-harm in adolescents. The study analyzed data from over 3,900 participants and identified three distinct parenting styles: negative, average, and positive, with positive parenting being the most protec...
Helping young adults rethink uncertainty reduces anxiety and depression: study
A single 20-30 minute online course can improve young adults' tolerance of uncertainty, leading to reduced anxiety and depression. The course, which took less than half an hour to complete, showed lasting effects on mental health even a month after completion.