A pioneering study by UPF found that lower-class young people, especially boys, receive twice as many ads about risky financial products as their upper-class peers. The study also reveals marked gender differences in online advertising, with girls receiving more fashion and beauty ads than boys.
ConnectPlayWise offers a low-cost, in-house solution for delivering social-emotional learning (SEL) and reducing loneliness in care homes. The platform allows children aged 7–12 to connect safely with older adults through interactive mini-games, improving socio-emotional skills while fostering intergenerational understanding.
A study found that individuals with childhood overweight had a similar risk of coronary heart disease as those with normal weight throughout childhood and young adulthood. This has significant implications for public health planning, emphasizing early detection and treatment of childhood obesity.
A 1-week social media detox in young adults was associated with reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. The study's findings suggest a potential therapeutic benefit of reducing social media use for mental health concerns.
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.
Researchers compared four flu vaccines and found varying cellular immune responses across different age groups. The Fluzone High-Dose vaccine outperformed others in older adults, while Flucelvax excelled in younger adults.
A recent USC study tracked 85 young adults over four years and found that increased ultra-processed food consumption was linked to elevated blood sugar and early signs of diabetes risk. The researchers also discovered that limiting UPF intake can help prevent disease.
Despite government initiatives, UK children's dental health remains poor, with 26.9% of five-year-olds experiencing tooth decay and disadvantaged areas facing higher rates of tooth extractions. The Child of the North initiative highlights the need for scaled-up and strengthened schemes to address this issue.
A recent study found that fewer than half of young adults with severely high cholesterol levels start taking a statin within five years of first high LDL-C measurement. The study highlights significant care gaps in lipid management among adults aged 18-39, particularly those at high risk for premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular dis...
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.
West Virginia University researchers are working with local partners to stop drug use in youth before it starts. They will expand an existing pilot project to encompass 140 schools in 36 rural counties, tailored to individual community needs.
A nationwide Swedish study found that many young people who died from cardiac arrest had recently sought medical care and showed signs of heart problems. The study suggests that fainting, seizures, and abnormal ECG findings in young people should be taken more seriously to identify those at risk before a sudden arrhythmic death occurs.
A new study by the University of Ottawa exposes how video game studios are violating children's privacy rights. Researchers analyzed 139 privacy policies and found none fully comply with existing legal frameworks.
Youth opioid use in Canada is increasing, with emergency department visits and deaths rising by 369.2% from 2013 to 2021. Effective treatments such as opioid agonist therapy, psychological therapy, and substance use disorder programs are scarce due to long wait-lists and private funding.
Research found that picture books often show boys experiencing more pain than girls, while girls are more likely to cry when faced with pain. The study also highlights the lack of representation of prosocial behavior, such as helping others in need.
A US study found that teenagers who use cannabis are more likely to become regular tobacco users, with 32.7% of those aged 12-17 progressing to regular tobacco use four years later. The study estimates that around 13% of new regular tobacco use is attributable to cannabis.
A new study by Beni-Suef University in Egypt reveals that nearly half of undergraduate students use non-prescription weight loss supplements without prior medical consultation. The researchers found that many users were aware of potential health risks but continued taking the supplements due to social media and family influence.
SourceDe Gruyter·JournalInternational Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 23, 2025
Longitudinal research found that severe stress caused by family structure changes like divorce or separation during infancy triples the risk of developing psoriasis. The study, published in Journal of Investigative Dermatology, emphasizes the need to protect young children from stressful life factors.
SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 21, 2025
A global study by the University of Jyväskylä found that our most emotionally resonant music comes from our teenage years, peaking around age 17. This 'reminiscence bump' helps explain why songs from adolescence remain meaningful even decades later.
A Cornell University study found that middle school-age Cherokee students cited cultural activities, financial privilege, and substance abuse as common stereotypes about themselves or other Native Americans. The research highlights the importance of understanding prevalent stereotypes to support students' development and counter them.
A national study led by Athabasca University researchers found that 37% of Canadian youth reported climate change impacts their mental health. The study identified four main themes, including anxiety, stress, and concerns for the future, highlighting the need for tools and supports to help youth navigate feelings and develop resilience.
A study found a significant increase in type 1 diabetes cases among children under five and young adult men in Sweden during the Covid-19 pandemic. The incidence of diabetes increased by 12% in 2021 and 9% in 2022 compared to previous years, with no clear connection between Covid-19 infection and diabetes.
FAU will implement evidence-based prevention strategies for at-risk youth, including LifeSkills Training, mindfulness programming, and peer mentorship. The program aims to drive long-term systems change, train professionals, and serve 600 youth annually over five years.
Poor blood sugar control in adolescence increases the risk of painful future complications for people with type 1 diabetes. Children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a young age have trouble controlling their blood sugar as teens and are more likely to develop neuropathy in adulthood.
A prospective cohort study found that young adults experiencing unfavorable patterns of cardiovascular health are at a marked increased risk for incident cardiovascular disease. Achieving and maintaining high cardiovascular health throughout young adulthood is crucial for preventing later-life cardiovascular disease.
The Keck School of Medicine has been recognized for its commitment to partnering with local communities in Los Angeles to address their critical needs through outreach, education, and service. The institution's community agenda is defined in collaboration with the communities it serves.
A higher cumulative cardiovascular health score in young adulthood is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney events in midlife. The study emphasizes the importance of early life prevention efforts.
A groundbreaking study aims to improve genetic services for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors by integrating digital tools and chatbot technology. Participants will receive tailored communication, digital education tools, and genetic testing, with the goal of increasing uptake of genetic counseling and testing.
A new research project, STREAMS, aims to improve mental health and antiretroviral treatment adherence among adolescents living with HIV in rural Uganda. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of a novel intervention combining mobile technology, economic empowerment, and medication support.
A new study found that pediatric athletes' cardiovascular systems adapt to increased fitness with abnormal changes, including increased cardiac mass, central blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and carotid intima-media thickness. These changes are not yet fully understood and may have long-term effects on cardiovascular health.
A recent study suggests that the rise in early-onset cancer incidence in the US population may not be as significant as initially thought. Much of the increase is attributed to increased diagnostic scrutiny and over-diagnosis, rather than a genuine rise in clinically meaningful cancer cases.
A 17-year study found robust population-level effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, even among sexually experienced adolescent girls and young women who may not have completed the vaccination series. The study's results suggest that the vaccine offers sustained herd protection against HPV-related diseases.
A significant risk factor for in-home firearm homicide is domestic violence and child abuse, highlighting the need for improved safe storage laws and extreme risk protection orders. Young children are disproportionately affected, emphasizing the importance of preventing these deaths through stricter regulations.
School participation in universal free meals was associated with a net reduction in blood pressure outcomes among youths, according to a cohort study. The findings contribute to growing evidence that such programs may improve child health.
A new study in mice found that concussions sustained early in life can lead to subtle brain changes that re-emerge later in life. The research highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and care following head injuries in children, as even mild symptoms may not be immediately apparent.
A new study found that three in five US children enrolled in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) by age 18. The researchers used a microsimulation model to track childhood insurance coverage over 18 years, estimating cumulative insurance outcomes under policy conditions similar to those between 2015 and 2019.
A multidisciplinary panel published in the Journal of Pediatrics advocates for accelerated diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, a life-threatening genetic condition. Universal lipid screening is recommended to identify affected children at high risk of heart disease decades earlier than those without the condition.
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that young individuals place a higher importance on even tooth color, with an average score of 8. White teeth scored 7.25, highlighting the significance of aesthetics in oral health.
The Leopoldina discussion paper advocates for age limits and restrictions on addictive functions in social media to protect children and adolescents from negative effects. Researchers recommend setting a minimum age for access, restricting certain functions, and implementing policies to promote healthy social media use.
A University of East Anglia study found that trauma-focused CBT significantly improved PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation in children with multiple traumas. The therapy was effective and safe, even for those with complex and severe symptoms.
The 2025 Childhood Obesity Conference, hosted by Pennington Biomedical's Greaux Health initiative, aims to educate healthcare providers and promote healthier futures for Louisiana's children through cutting-edge research and evidence-based strategies. Participants can earn up to 7.5 CMEs and gain practical tools to support healthier fu...
A study published in Translational Psychiatry found that following a well-formulated ketogenic diet for at least 10 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in depression symptoms, improved global well-being, and enhanced cognitive performance among college students. The pilot trial showed a roughly 70% reduction in depression symptoms.
New research published in CMAJ found that Black adolescents with mental distress are less likely to access mental health care, with Black girls being the least likely. The study highlights the need for culturally responsive and sex-specific adaptations to care, as well as policy changes to equalize mental health service use.
Problem gambling in minors is linked to a higher risk of suicide, substance use disorder, theft, and assault. The Canadian Medical Association Journal urges the federal government to expedite legislation to regulate sports betting advertising and protect young people from its harms.
A new study found that 89% of children and young people play video games, with loot box purchases linked to enhancement, distraction/compulsion, and FOMO. The yRAFFLE scale validated the motivations of children and young people who buy chance-based items in games.
A study found that adolescents become highly motivated to seek rewards after just a few hours of social isolation, which can be beneficial in driving them towards social interaction. However, limited opportunities for connection may lead to pursuing less healthy rewards.
A study of over 4,400 Australian children found that those experiencing tooth loss were more than four times as likely to be bullied. Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and rural areas were disproportionately affected. The researchers highlight the need for improved access to dental care and prevention programs.
A comprehensive state ban on flavored e-cigarettes leads to a decrease in vaping among young adults aged 18–24 years by about 2–3 percentage points, while increasing traditional cigarette use by a similar amount. For youth under 18, there is suggestive evidence of an increase in cigarette use, undermining broader tobacco control efforts.
A recent study published in Journal of Adolescent Health found that young people from diverse cultures worldwide perceive digital environments as affecting their mental health. They highlight the need for more support and involvement from adults in their digital lives, including reflection on one's own digital habits.
A state ban on flavored e-cigarettes may lead to a net negative effect on health for young adults, increasing traditional cigarette use while reducing vaping. The study found that comprehensive bans had no impact on tobacco participation among adults aged 25 and older.
A new study from Murdoch University found that overlapping sleep problems increase the chances of accidents on the road and at work. Young adults with sleep disorders, insufficient sleep, and shift work were more likely to experience near-miss road incidents and fall asleep while driving.
A study by University of Otago researchers found that young adults who prioritize good sleep, eat more fruit and vegetables, and stay physically active experience improved well-being. These basic lifestyle behaviours can meaningfully enhance well-being without costly interventions.
A new study by the University of Surrey found that schools struggle to address sexual harm due to narrow definitions and institutional constraints. The research proposes a 'both/and' approach combining swift responses with long-term cultural change to build environments where harmful behaviors are less likely to occur.
A recent study found that large portions of obesity-related conditions in US adolescents and young adults are attributable to obesity. Treating and preventing obesity may reduce these conditions and associated costs. The researchers emphasize the importance of addressing childhood obesity to prevent future health issues.
Research highlights the complex role of police officers in schools, where relationship-based approaches can undermine trust and limit effective safeguarding responses. Police officers' dual roles blur boundaries, causing damage to trust, especially among girls affected by sexual harm.
The American Heart Association has named 15 students as national Youth Heart Ambassadors for the 2025-26 school year. These student ambassadors will promote healthy habits, raise awareness of heart disease and stroke prevention, and advocate for CPR education in schools.
A study of over 10,000 teenagers found that sleep problems at age 14 were directly associated with self-harm behaviour at both ages, highlighting the importance of prioritizing sleep health in adolescents. The research also suggests that poor sleep can have long-lasting impacts on mental health.
Participation in Finnish youth sports clubs has significantly increased since the 1980s, particularly among girls. However, rural areas and low-income families continue to face significant barriers to accessing sports opportunities due to rising costs and limited accessibility.
A study by Annenberg Public Policy Center found that firearm use in popular US movies increased by 200% from 2000 to 2021, mirroring the rise in firearm homicide rates among young people aged 15-24. The research suggests that portrayal of guns in entertainment may play a role in promoting their use for violent purposes.
A systematic review of 172 studies reveals significant gaps in global representation of adolescent mental health research. Traditional bullying is reported more frequently in low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries.