public health

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.

Some rural residents must travel hours for a sexual assault exam. Specialized telehealth services are expanding so they can obtain care closer to home.

Noise pollution is a growing problem that isn’t confined to the ears: It can cause harm throughout the body. California is taking baby steps to address the din from traffic and illegally modified cars, but public health experts urge lawmakers to act more boldly.

As public health departments work on improving their message, the skepticism and mistrust often reserved for COVID-vaccines now threaten other priorities, including flu shots and childhood vaccines.

While supporters cheer the PASTEUR Act as an essential strategy to stem the rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, critics call it a multibillion-dollar giveaway to Big Pharma.