At the height of the tuberculosis epidemic in the 19th century, doctors began advising people to venture outside to escape the “bad air” in their homes. In the 1960s, by contrast, AC became widespread in the U.S., increasing the appeal of staying inside. These days, many of us—the so-called “indoor generation”—spend summer mostly inside, relying…
A dangerous mpox outbreak is unfolding in Sierra Leone. In just the first week of May, cases rose by 61%, and suspected cases surged by 71%. Roughly half of all confirmed mpox cases in Africa now come from this small West African nation. The virus is moving widely, across geographies, genders, and age groups. And…
When Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. began his tenure as Health and Human Services Secretary, he pledged, “We won’t take away anyone’s vaccines.” However, recent policy changes under his leadership—coupled with the unprecedented dismissal of all 17 members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) on June 9—have proven that statement false, raising grave concerns for…
Big data can help make Americans healthier, and the Trump Administration has stated—in its recently released Make America Healthy Again report and elsewhere—that building a national big-data platform is one of its primary goals. As scientists who use large data sets to study health, we’re excited about its potential and the willingness of the federal…
Going to the dentist is essential for preventing and detecting cavities, gum disease, and other oral issues. But few people go enough: According to the latest federal data, only 65% of adults had a dental exam or cleaning in the past year. How often do you really need to visit the dentist? Here’s what oral…
Various chemicals, from those in plastics to food additives, have made headlines lately for their potential roles in triggering diseases. Pesticides are unique among chemicals, though, says Melissa Perry, an environmental epidemiologist and dean of George Mason’s College of Public Health. “They’re deliberately manufactured to kill things.” By poisoning weeds, pesticides clear the way for…
Getting enough fiber is crucial for optimal health, yet more than 90% of Americans don’t. Federal dietary guidelines recommend 25–34 grams of fiber per day for adults, depending on age and gender—but the average American adult eats only about 8 grams a day“which is far below recommended intake regardless of age or sex,” says Dr….