public health

Where trees are growing — and who has access to their shade — affects health and well-being, especially in Florida, one of the hottest states in the country.

Even as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, litigation — whether about vaccines, masks, or a range of other public health policies made during the pandemic — isn’t about to end.

The first FDA-authorized cigarettes with 95% less nicotine than traditional smokes will go on sale in Florida in early July.

Advocates want more transparency across the U.S. after New York and California pass laws requiring disclosure of ingredients on menstrual product packaging.

A growing body of research is finding links between air quality and mental health, as therapists report seeing patients with symptoms linked to pollution.

The full health risks of wearing apparel made with PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are still unknown. But states are taking action so clothing makers will remove them.

Washington state regulators found formaldehyde, lead and arsenic in lipstick, powder foundations, skin lotions, and hair products marketed to and popular with women of color. Legislators there several other states are seeking to ban the products.

The veterinary tranquilizer xylazine, the choice du jour of local drug dealers to cut fentanyl, leads to necrotic ulcers and leaves street medics and physicians confused about how best to deal with this wave of the opioid crisis.

Local health departments combat disparities by funding immigrant and minority community groups and letting them decide how best to spend the money.

The network would let parts of the health system share information during emergencies. It still hasn’t been planned, even after the communication and data-sharing failures put on display during the pandemic.