The hottest Public Health Substack posts right now

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NIAID Funds and Nature Publishes Doomsday COVID Viral Virulence-Enhancing Technology by Dr. Zheng-Li Shi: Call for Emergency Restrictions and Severe Penalties for Misuse

Popular Rationalism • 277 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🔬 Science Virology Bioethics Public Health
  1. The new method of using customized viral receptors (CVRs) allows scientists to study how viruses infect cells more safely, but it also poses serious risks if misused.
  2. These CVRs can make viruses more contagious and easier to spread, raising concerns about biosecurity and the potential for creating bioweapons.
  3. There's an urgent need for stricter regulations and accountability in viral research to prevent misuse of technologies like CVRs and ensure public safety.

With Kennedy on Board, This is What a Trump Win Will Mean for Democrats

Popular Rationalism • 1367 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Health Political parties Pharmaceuticals Vaccine Safety
  1. A Trump win could force the Democratic Party to rethink its ties with the pharmaceutical industry. This may lead to more transparency and accountability in health policies.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is seen as a potential leader who could push for a health agenda focused on questioning the status quo and prioritizing public health over profit.
  3. The public is becoming more aware of vaccine safety issues, and this awareness may change how health policies are formed and implemented in the future.

Everybody Freeze! It’s the Climate Police

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2415 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate Policy Public Health
  1. New rules in Ottawa limit how long you can warm up your car in winter, aiming to cut emissions. Many people think this is silly given the extreme cold.
  2. Bureaucratic efforts to fight climate change, like the car warming rule, often get a lot of attention but may not really help the environment.
  3. There's a growing debate over whether such regulations are practical or just inconvenience people without making a real difference.

It Is Now Clear Why Masks Never Worked

Unmasked • 46 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Health Research Vaccine debate
  1. Masks did not effectively prevent the spread of COVID-19, as shown by multiple studies over the years. Many places that enforced strict mask mandates still experienced high infection rates.
  2. Experts originally agreed that masks weren’t necessary for the general public, and later claims to the contrary were proven wrong. The research all along suggested masks wouldn't help during a pandemic.
  3. Experiments during the pandemic showed that forcing people, including children, to wear masks didn’t make a difference in controlling the virus, ultimately leading to a conclusion that the mandates were ineffective.

A snapshot into how deportations affect health

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1399 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Mental health Immigration Child welfare Policy Impact
  1. Deportations affect not just the individuals who are removed but also the families and communities left behind, especially children who may experience trauma, stress, and uncertainty.
  2. Studies show that fear of deportation can lead families to avoid seeking medical care, which can have serious public health implications for entire communities.
  3. Support from caregivers, educators, and communities is crucial for children and families affected by these policies, helping them cope and thrive despite the challenges they face.
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A Covid Nasal Vaccine Update

Ground Truths • 10148 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Clinical Trials Policy Infectious Diseases
  1. There are now 6 different nasal vaccines in clinical trials in the US aimed at preventing COVID-19 and blocking its transmission. These vaccines are promising because they might work better than traditional shots.
  2. Two major challenges facing these new vaccines are the low current levels of the virus, which make it harder to gather data from trials, and the uncertainty about ongoing government support for these projects.
  3. Successful nasal vaccines could provide a convenient way to protect people from COVID-19, but it will take time to find out if they really work well in humans.

RFK Jr. guts the U.S. vaccine policy committee

Your Local Epidemiologist • 2249 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Policy Epidemiology Health Insurance
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has removed all members of the U.S. vaccine policy committee, which has been a trusted part of vaccine safety and recommendations for decades.
  2. The change raises concerns about who will be appointed next and whether they will rely on scientific evidence or personal beliefs to guide vaccine policy.
  3. If vaccine recommendations change or lose credibility, it could affect insurance coverage, access to vaccines for children, and create inconsistent state policies that may risk public health.

The Evidence That A Million Americans Died Of COVID

Astral Codex Ten • 32210 implied HN points • 22 May 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Statistics Healthcare Policy Analysis
  1. Many people are unsure if the 1.2 million COVID deaths are accurate, with some believing these deaths are linked to other causes rather than COVID itself.
  2. The data shows that total deaths during the pandemic were higher than usual, which supports the idea that many deaths were directly caused by COVID.
  3. Some argue that they don’t personally know anyone who died from COVID, but with a large population, it makes sense that not everyone would know someone affected.

Vaccination is legalized, decriminalized, government-sponsored, government-run torture, mutilation and homicide.

Bailiwick News • 6598 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Government Regulation Legal issues Medical Ethics
  1. Vaccination programs have been criticized as harmful and misleading, with claims that they cause suffering and even death.
  2. The argument is made that individuals can resist these programs by not participating and by advocating for changes in laws that enable them.
  3. There is a belief that the government has misled the public about the safety and regulation of vaccines, making individuals skeptical about their trust in these medical interventions.

The Other COVID Reckoning

Astral Codex Ten • 30214 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health COVID-19 Mortality Policy Analysis Social Impact
  1. COVID-19 has caused an incredible number of deaths, but many people have stopped talking about them, even though the toll is higher than many major historical events.
  2. The reasons for this neglect may include that the deceased were often older people, and there aren't public stories shared by those who lost loved ones, making the impact feel less personal.
  3. While there were many debates about COVID responses, the focus should be on remembering those who lost their lives, as it can help us appreciate the seriousness of the situation.

WPATH, part I: "The dignity of risk and the right to regret"

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1884 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Medical Ethics Patient rights Gender Issues Public Health Policy Debate
  1. Teenagers have the right to make decisions, even if they might regret them later. This is part of growing up and learning about themselves.
  2. Medical decisions, especially about serious treatments like hormone therapy, require careful consideration. They aren't just like normal teenage risks of dating or making silly choices.
  3. Clinicians must take responsibility for their actions and the potential harm they can cause. It's important to really think about the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions for young people.

What I’m learning from MAHA

Your Local Epidemiologist • 3091 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Health Communication
  1. It's important to work with trusted voices in the community to make health information easier to understand. By collaborating, we can create better resources that respect people's choices.
  2. People want to have control over their health decisions, but they also need guidance. Public health should support individual choice while promoting community health.
  3. Public health is all about protecting people, not making profits like big companies. We need to clarify this to build trust and show how we can help communities thrive.

Top Links 652 China's manufacturing dominance. The rouble running riot. How PM2.5 kills & the politics of the Rebecca riots.

Chartbook • 400 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Economic Policy Public Health Environmental Policy Labor relations
  1. China has a huge impact on global manufacturing, producing about one-third of the world's goods. This shows how essential China is in many important production areas.
  2. The rouble is experiencing significant fluctuations, which could affect the economy and trade. These changes can create challenges for Russia and its partners.
  3. PM2.5 pollution is harmful to health and has led to serious political issues in some areas. Understanding its effects can help address public health and environmental concerns.

The Microplastic Concerns Elevate—To the Brain

Ground Truths • 13384 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Environmental health Toxicology Nutrition Health Impact
  1. Microplastics are accumulating in the brain and other organs, with much higher levels found in people with dementia. This is raising alarms about their possible effects on health.
  2. Studies have shown that microplastics can affect blood flow in the brain, leading to issues like blood clots. This suggests they could contribute to neurological problems.
  3. To reduce exposure to microplastics, people can avoid plastic packaging and heating plastic items. There's also a need for broader action to cut down plastic production overall.

Covid still quiet, measles, ticks, smoke, EMTALA, and seed oil confusion

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1232 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Healthcare policy Nutrition Environmental health
  1. A new class of antibiotics has been approved for treating urinary tract infections, which is great news in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
  2. Measles cases are rising in several states, especially among unvaccinated children, highlighting the importance of vaccination during summer travel.
  3. Wildfire smoke from Canada is affecting air quality in many areas, so it's smart to check local air quality levels and take safety precautions when needed.

About Those Onesies

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 16872 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Public Health Civil Liberties Populism Media Critique
  1. Senator Sanders had a tense exchange with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., which seemed surprising given they agree on many issues. It raised questions about why there was such hostility.
  2. The Virality Project labeled both Sanders and Kennedy as 'censored,' showing how the content moderation system can target people for their overall views, not just specific statements.
  3. Sanders once had a strong populist appeal but lost some of that by not defending free speech for those with differing views, which goes against the core of liberal values.

What do you think of my solution for the microplastics issue?

Trevor Klee’s Newsletter • 223 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Public Health Food Safety Environmental health Toxicology
  1. Microplastics are everywhere, including in our food and water. It's hard to completely avoid them.
  2. Plasticizers, which make plastics soft, might be harmful to our health.
  3. A new idea is being explored to create a food-safe supplement that could help remove plasticizers from the body.

Why Bother Checking? Halloween Candy Is Already Full of Poisons.

The Society of Problem Solvers • 359 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Diet Chronic Illness Health Education Public Health
  1. Many popular candies contain harmful ingredients like seed oils and food dyes, which can affect health negatively. It's important to pay attention to what's really in our food.
  2. Instead of just worrying about safety from external dangers, we should recognize that the candies we buy might already be unhealthy. Eating the right foods can lead to better health outcomes.
  3. Solving health problems is possible with the right changes in diet and lifestyle. A focused approach like the Carnivore diet could help improve chronic health issues.

Well Being: Measles- Truth Versus Fiction

Who is Robert Malone • 14 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Vaccination Infectious Disease Immunology Health Education
  1. Measles is highly contagious and can lead to outbreaks, especially in areas with low vaccination rates. The U.S. declared measles eliminated in 2000, but outbreaks still happen due to various factors.
  2. Vaccines like the MMR vaccine have some failure rates, meaning not everyone is protected even after receiving it. This raises concerns about how many children might still be at risk.
  3. As more people travel internationally, the chance of measles spreading in the U.S. increases. More mandates for vaccinations may not solve the issue of rising measles cases, as herd immunity wanes.

The Most Devastating Report So Far

COVID Reason • 1031 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Government Policy Vaccination Misinformation Social Impact
  1. The government spent nearly $1 billion to promote misleading information about COVID vaccines and masks. This kind of spending could seriously hurt a private company if they did the same.
  2. The PR campaign exaggerated the dangers of COVID and claimed vaccines were very effective, even saying they stopped transmission. This created a loss of trust when real-life results showed otherwise.
  3. The ads scared parents into thinking there were strict health rules for schools unless their kids got vaccinated and masked up. Many of the risks of the vaccines were not properly discussed, leading to confusion.

Voices in Print

Force of Infection • 28 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Patient rights Medical Research Public Health Healthcare policy
  1. Patients can offer valuable ideas to improve healthcare based on their personal experiences. It's important for these voices to be heard in medical discussions.
  2. The Voices in Print project connects patients with professional writers to share their suggestions in a clear way. This helps bring patient insights into medical literature.
  3. They are looking for new patient partners who have specific ideas on improving care, and participation in the project is free.

Ensitrelvir (Xocova®): Japanese Company Shionogi & Co., Ltd. Sets a Model for Success in Translational Research for the Coming Future of Ethical Science

Popular Rationalism • 455 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Pharmaceuticals Drug Development Clinical Trials Public Health
  1. Ensitrelvir, also known as Xocova, is a new antiviral pill that is 30 times more effective than a placebo. It was developed by a Japanese company called Shionogi & Co., which worked closely with researchers.
  2. This medication targets a key enzyme the virus needs to replicate, making it effective against COVID-19 symptoms, especially those caused by Omicron variants. It has shown a strong safety profile and fewer side effects compared to some other treatments.
  3. Xocova is easier to take than some alternatives because it requires only a once-daily dose and has fewer interactions with other medications. This makes it a more convenient option for many patients.

Anti-depressants: The trials last 8 weeks; People take them for 8+ years

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 85 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Mental health Medications Clinical Trials Public Health Psychiatry
  1. People often take anti-depressants for many years, even decades, but they were only studied for about 8 weeks in trials.
  2. There isn't clear evidence that taking these medications long-term is better than not starting them at all, which raises concerns about their effectiveness.
  3. We need longer and better studies to truly understand the benefits and downsides of anti-depressants, including how they impact things like sexual health.

Climate “Endangerment”

David Friedman’s Substack • 242 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Environmental Policy Public Health
  1. The debate about climate change includes arguments about whether its overall effects are negative or if there can be positive impacts too. It's important to look at both sides to really understand the issue.
  2. Some scientists believe that overturning a key EPA finding on climate endangerment would be very hard, especially when many signs show that climate change is already hurting people now.
  3. There's a worry that a mistaken belief in a scientific consensus on climate change could be maintained because researchers often rely on each other's work. This can lead to bias if everyone is already leaning towards the same conclusion.

Wired’s Scicomm Writer Emily Mullin Attacks Independent Research, Because of Course

The DisInformation Chronicle • 565 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism COVID Policy Political narratives Science communication Public Health
  1. The article critiques a piece by Emily Mullin that is critical of a new science journal, saying it contains many errors and misleading statements. It argues that journalists can sometimes promote their own biases instead of focusing on factual reporting.
  2. It highlights a term called 'dial-a-quote,' where writers seek quotes from people they know will support their narrative, instead of looking for a balanced perspective. This practice can skew the way information is presented to readers.
  3. The discussion raises concerns about the credibility of some researchers who contribute to science writing. It points out how certain quotes and opinions may align with existing narratives rather than presenting objective scientific information.

Learning curve.

Bailiwick News • 5983 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Government Policy Medical Ethics
  1. Vaccines have historically been linked to harm for multiple generations, raising concerns about their safety and effectiveness.
  2. There is a belief that government and health officials have manipulated regulations to make vaccine approvals easier without proper safety standards.
  3. Many urge individuals to stop vaccinating, especially children, citing a lack of trust in the health system and its practices.

Anaphylaxis, allergens, immunogenicity, vaccines.

Bailiwick News • 3269 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Pharmaceuticals Regulations Allergies
  1. Vaccines and many biological products can cause allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. This means they can intentionally harm people while claiming to protect them.
  2. There are laws that make it hard to hold companies accountable for the negative effects of vaccines. These laws allow harmful practices to continue under the guise of vaccination programs.
  3. Congress is more focused on how effective these vaccines are at causing harm, rather than their safety. This reflects a deeper concern about managing public health costs rather than protecting individuals.

Covid summer and confusion, measles, cucumber recall, maternal health declining, and a curious MAHA report

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1855 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Maternal health Disease outbreaks Health Policy
  1. COVID-19 cases are currently low in the U.S., but summer waves are common. A new variant could lead to increasing cases, so it's important to stay informed.
  2. There is a lot of confusion around who can get COVID-19 vaccines right now. Eligibility seems to change often, and it's crucial to keep up with the latest guidelines.
  3. The MAHA report raised concerns about children's health but lacked detail on important issues like poverty. We need clear strategies and proper funding to truly improve children's health.

The first RCT for GLP-1 drugs and alcoholism isn't what we hoped

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 1109 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Addiction Medications Clinical Trials Public Health Research
  1. GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide help with diabetes and obesity, but new research shows they might not be effective for alcohol addiction as previously thought. The first clinical trial results were disappointing.
  2. The trial had only 48 participants and mixed results, with no clear evidence that semaglutide reduced alcohol consumption. Some data suggested it might help in a lab setting, but overall findings were weak.
  3. Despite the poor results, there are still many personal stories claiming these drugs help with addiction. More research is needed, as the search for effective treatments for addiction continues.

We're Heading into a Pandemic within a Pandemic. N95 Masks Will Save Your Life. Wear Them.

OK Doomer • 4006 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemics Masks Vaccines Healthcare
  1. N95 masks are very effective at preventing the spread of respiratory diseases. They can trap tiny viral particles and are better than regular surgical masks.
  2. Wearing masks has been shown to save lives during disease outbreaks. Studies show that areas with mask mandates have lower infection rates.
  3. It's important to continue wearing masks as new diseases emerge. Good quality masks should be readily available to everyone, but that's still a challenge in many places.

In a World Without Medicine, These Plants Could Save Your Life

OK Doomer • 340 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Herbal Medicine Infection Control Preventive Care Public Health Natural remedies
  1. Plants can be powerful for health, especially when medicine isn't available. They can help fight infections and offer protection against illnesses.
  2. Some plant compounds are effective, like star anise, which works similarly to certain medications. Always check with a doctor before using them, especially if you're on other meds.
  3. Current events like vaccine delays remind us to look into natural alternatives. Researching these plant-based options can prepare us for uncertain times.

Medical Roundup #4

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1747 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Medical Ethics Healthcare policy Drug Development Public Health Life Extension
  1. Medical news has slowed down as other topics grab our attention, but real developments are happening quickly due to advancements in AI.
  2. Life expectancy is on the rise in many countries, and we are seeing breakthroughs in preventative healthcare and treatment options, like effective ways to prevent HIV.
  3. It is important to be cautious and proactive about your health. Sometimes doctors may not give the full picture, so getting a second opinion can make a difference.

Number of people living in county could be as much as 50,000 higher than thought, health watchdog learns

NN Journal • 218 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Community health
  1. The population in Northamptonshire might actually be about 50,000 people higher than previously thought.
  2. According to a health official, nearly 844,000 people are registered with health services in the county.
  3. This number is significantly more than what the last census recorded, which raises questions about population tracking.

Francis Collins retires from the NIH

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 128 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Biotechnology Policy Analysis Epidemiology Research Ethics
  1. Francis Collins helped find the cystic fibrosis gene, which saved many lives. However, his support for gain of function research and certain policies during the pandemic raised concerns.
  2. Many believe that the impact of Collins' leadership during the pandemic was negative, leading to loss of trust in science and vaccination. His actions may have contributed to millions of deaths and economic losses.
  3. Collins did not explore if the way the NIH gives out grant money was effective. Despite advancements in genetics, many common health issues remain largely unresolved.

Covid vaccines for pregnancy and babies: Sorting fact from chaos

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1023 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Pregnancy COVID-19
  1. Pregnant women and children can still get the Covid-19 vaccine, which is both safe and effective. This helps protect the mother and child from the virus.
  2. Vaccination during pregnancy can pass important antibodies to the baby, offering short-term protection after birth. But as these antibodies fade, it's crucial for babies to get their own vaccinations starting at 6 months.
  3. There has been some confusion about vaccine eligibility lately due to changing recommendations, but speaking with a healthcare provider can help clarify options for parents.

SIGN THIS PETITION TO THE TRUMP CAMPAIGN TO END VACCINE MANDATES, RESTORE OUR RIGHTS TO SUE FOR VACCINE INJURIES, PROTECT EXEMPTIONS AND REMOVE LIABILITY PROTECTIONS

Popular Rationalism • 1169 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Strategy Public Health Political Campaigns Vaccine Policy
  1. There is a push to end vaccine mandates and allow people to choose whether to get vaccinated without penalties. This means making sure people don't have to worry about losing their jobs or education over their vaccine choices.
  2. The group wants to restore the right for people to sue vaccine manufacturers if they get hurt by a vaccine. This is important for holding companies accountable.
  3. They are also asking for more freedom to refuse vaccines by protecting exemptions in every state. This would let more people avoid getting vaccinated for personal or religious reasons.

What would making America healthy really mean?

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1742 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Making Health Systems Community health Healthcare Innovation
  1. America's health system is facing serious problems, with cuts to important services like Medicaid and a lack of support for scientists. This is making it harder for people to get the care they need.
  2. We need to imagine a better future where everyone has access to clean air, healthy food, and support systems that actually work for families. This means integrating health services and making them easy to access.
  3. It's important for leaders to listen to people and build a health system that is fair, data-driven, and responsive. We must prioritize long-term health over short-term fixes.

Deliberate induction of anaphylaxis by vaccination

Bailiwick News • 2773 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Medical Ethics Health Policy Bioethics
  1. Vaccines can potentially cause serious allergic reactions, known as anaphylaxis, which may not be easily predictable. This can happen even with substances that are usually safe when eaten.
  2. Some historical research on anaphylaxis reveals a connection between vaccinations and the increase in allergies and autoimmune conditions today, suggesting that vaccines might sensitize people to allergens.
  3. Many vaccines contain proteins or substances that could trigger allergies, and the lack of stringent regulation in vaccine development means that people might not be fully aware of the risks involved.

BMC Women's Health Publishes a Deeply Flawed Study on Parental Acceptance of HPV Vaccinations. Plus: Three Key Questions Required of Any HPV Vaccine Efficacy Trial

Popular Rationalism • 733 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Research Methodology Epidemiology Cancer prevention
  1. The recent study on parental acceptance of HPV vaccinations has major flaws that make its results questionable. Problems include small sample sizes and not enough diversity in participants.
  2. There is growing concern about HPV type replacement, where non-vaccine types may become more common after vaccination. This could lead to an increase in HPV-related cancers despite vaccination efforts.
  3. Future studies on HPV vaccine efficacy need to focus more on long-term effects and should clearly address issues like type replacement and the percentage of cancers caused by non-vaccine-targeted HPV types.

The Covid Screwtape Letters - Part 4 - The "New Normal"

COVID Reason • 475 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Social Behavior Remote work Mental health
  1. Social distancing has made people feel more isolated and suspicious of each other. It's now hard for them to feel comfortable with close contact, like handshakes or hugs.
  2. Working from home sounds good, but it has turned into a way to control people's lives. They end up working more and feel stuck, as their home becomes like an office.
  3. People might miss in-person interactions, but they are being trained to prefer the convenience and safety of digital communication. This can make real connections feel uncomfortable.