The hottest Public Health Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics

The Bomb Test Downwinders and the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act

Gordian Knot News • 153 implied HN points • 24 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health
  1. Residents downwind of nuclear bomb tests in the 1950s received significant radiation doses, but studies showed no increase in cancer rates among them.
  2. Public concern about the health effects of these tests surged after the 1970s, leading to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act that provides payouts to those affected, despite no solid evidence linking fallout to health issues.
  3. The perception of danger from radiation exposure has changed over time, with many now believing that low doses of radiation have harmful effects, supported by government compensation programs, even when actual risks seem low.

This one paragraph in abstract of the Mead, Wolfinger, Rose, Seneff, Kirsch et al. paper and these 3 words indicate why this abstract MUST be rewritten (paper taken down): 1)'modified' is a Malone

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 530 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The abstract of the paper calls for a temporary halt on modified mRNA products until certain questions are answered.
  2. There is concern that the language used in the abstract could soften the stance against mRNA technology and COVID vaccines.
  3. The need for clarity and transparency in scientific communication to ensure the public receives the truth without any games.

The COVID Digest, 18Feb2023

The COVID Digest • 1100 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health
  1. The author is taking a break from writing about COVID-19 after three years of pandemic updates.
  2. There has been a significant decrease in hospitalizations and ICU admissions in Georgia as waves of the pandemic progressed.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of public health in addressing disparities and ensuring access to healthcare for all.

2 men with same problem, one a POTUS, one a bench pipetting scientist, one a leader, one a fraud: Trump vs Malone, how do they have same problem? 1)Trump, was against lockdowns & vaccine now supports

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 511 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Trump initially against lockdowns and vaccines, now supporting them. Needs to address why he shifted his stance.
  2. Dr. Malone, an advocate of mRNA technology, faced criticism for supporting vaccines based on his technology but then going against them. People question his credibility.
  3. Both Trump and Malone need to address their inconsistencies and the public's distrust towards their actions and statements.
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JN.1 - how worried should you be?

Logging the World • 737 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health
  1. A new faster-growing variant, JN.1, has emerged from the BA.2.86 family, showing potential for significant impact on COVID trends.
  2. The growth rate of JN.1 suggests a concerning pattern of exponential increase over time, raising alarm for future hospital admissions.
  3. Changing social behaviors post-Christmas may lead to a potential decrease in overall growth rates, impacting the severity of future COVID waves.

How to Legislate in a Half-Known World

After Babel • 654 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health
  1. Lawmakers should act on available evidence even if it isn't perfect. Waiting for absolute proof can delay important decisions that affect people's lives, especially kids.
  2. Policymaking often requires balancing what's known with the unknown. Legislators face various pressures and must make decisions with limited information in a timely manner.
  3. It's important for lawmakers to demand safety from companies before allowing their products. Just like with drugs and food, firms should prove their products are safe for children, not the other way around.

A frenzy of forgetting

¡Do Not Panic! • 1061 implied HN points • 09 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics Public Health
  1. Over 25 million people have died from COVID in the last 3.5 years
  2. There is a trend towards forgetting the impact of the pandemic amidst the massive death toll
  3. Cultural amnesia can allow societies to gloss over traumatic events, hindering true healing and understanding

Covid Situation Report: Mar 28, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 339 implied HN points • 30 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Covid cases and hospital admissions are currently low and showing a downward trend. This means the winter surge is considered over.
  2. The Juno variant is still the main strain, but no new variants have been detected that could cause another surge.
  3. A Spring 2024 booster campaign is starting for vulnerable groups, reminding us that older individuals have a higher risk of hospitalization if infected.

BOMBSHELL: The CDC Has Updated Its “Autism and Vaccines” Page

Injecting Freedom • 152 implied HN points • 20 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The CDC has updated its stance on vaccines and autism, admitting that they haven't proven that vaccines do not cause autism.
  2. Previous studies suggesting there is no link between vaccines and autism have serious flaws and have been largely ignored by health authorities.
  3. The CDC is now supporting further research on the relationship between infant vaccines and autism, acknowledging that more studies are needed.

Year-on-year COVID comparisons

Logging the World • 1056 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Overall, COVID admissions and death rates in 2023 are lower than the corresponding days in 2022, suggesting positive progress in managing the virus.
  2. Comparisons of primary beds occupied 'for COVID' show similar positive trends in 2023 compared to 2022, indicating improved conditions.
  3. The data suggests that in 2023, COVID outcomes have improved significantly compared to previous years, with lower deaths and better management, showcasing progress in handling the pandemic.

Vaccines for all?

Independent SAGE continues • 299 implied HN points • 11 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Many children around the world are not getting vaccinated, especially in poor or remote areas. This puts them at high risk for diseases like measles, which is highly contagious.
  2. Vaccine access can be improved with flexible delivery methods, like mobile clinics that bring vaccines directly to communities. This has worked well in places like Sierra Leone and Scotland.
  3. There's a lot of fear and misinformation about vaccines that affects people's willingness to get vaccinated. It's important to listen to concerns and provide accurate information to build trust.

Prominent Hollywood Director Makes Wild, Inaccurate Claims About New Zealand's COVID Policies And Outcomes, Calls US Insane

Unmasked • 41 implied HN points • 24 Jan 26
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Supporters of strict COVID measures are described as acting like religious fanatics who cared more about moral superiority than real-world results.
  2. James Cameron is singled out for making wild, inaccurate claims about New Zealand’s COVID response and for calling the US 'insane,' presented as an example of that mindset.
  3. The piece argues that lockdowns, mandates, and other COVID policies were repeatedly proven wrong, yet many people refuse to admit the outcomes didn’t justify those measures.

Yale’s “Integrity Project” Is Spreading Misinformation About The Cass Review And Youth Gender Medicine: Part 3

Singal-Minded • 1453 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Yale's Integrity Project has been criticized for spreading misinformation about youth gender medicine and the Cass Review. Many argue that their claims are not based on solid evidence.
  2. Critics of the Integrity Project highlight that their arguments often lack proper context or are misleading. They suggest that the project's authors are prioritizing a legal narrative over accurate scientific discourse.
  3. The debate around gender medicine for youth is complicated and filled with differing opinions. It's important to critically evaluate sources and claims to understand the real effects of treatments like puberty blockers.

Covid Situation Report: May 16, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Covid positivity rates are rising again, but hospital admissions have mostly stabilized. Older adults, especially those over 65, still face higher hospitalization rates.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is going well, with over 2.8 million doses given. However, many immunocompromised individuals have not been vaccinated yet.
  3. Covid deaths are much lower compared to last year, proving that while we have challenges, the situation is improving overall.

Following the science to the grave

¡Do Not Panic! • 1022 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Public Health
  1. Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent around the world, a glimpse into the future of climate change.
  2. Countries heavily reliant on tourism and agriculture are facing economic turmoil due to extreme heat and climate change.
  3. The scientific community can be influenced by capitalist interests, leading to dangerous consequences like downplaying climate change risks.

Covid Situation Report: May 23, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 179 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Covid positivity rates have peaked and are now decreasing, indicating a potential end to the recent wave of infections.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is going well, with over 3.3 million doses given, but vaccination among vulnerable groups remains low.
  3. A new variant, KP.2, is spreading but doesn't appear to be more aggressive than others currently in circulation.

We are likely at peak season

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1384 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Right now, many people are getting sick, and it seems like we are in the peak season for respiratory illnesses. The usual patterns we see are pretty much the same as before the pandemic.
  2. Flu cases are very high but appear to be slowing down. However, we might still face more waves of flu with different strains hitting later in the winter.
  3. Covid-19 cases are increasing, but they are lower than in past winters. Vaccination and past infections have helped build immunity, which is why this winter seems milder.

Up, up, and away

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1530 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Influenza-like illnesses are on the rise in the U.S., which means more people are getting sick. It's not peak season yet, but it's a good idea to wear a mask when traveling.
  2. The flu is spreading quickly, especially the Flu A strain. Vaccination rates are lower this year, which may lead to more severe cases, so getting vaccinated is still encouraged.
  3. Covid-19 cases are increasing gradually, with new variants making it easier to catch. As we head into winter and holiday gatherings, it's wise to get vaccinated to stay protected.

22 Public Health Accomplishments in 2024

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1472 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. dropped thanks to programs that provide treatment and education on overdose prevention. This is a big win after many years of rising deaths.
  2. There was a 2% decline in sexually transmitted infections, showing that efforts to control and educate about these diseases are making a difference.
  3. Cervical cancer deaths are decreasing among young women, likely due to the success of the HPV vaccine. This suggests that vaccination is successfully protecting future generations.

Updated estimates of Long Covid in England and Scotland show that it remains a serious issue

Independent SAGE continues • 239 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. About 1.1 million people in England and Scotland are estimated to have Long Covid lasting at least 12 weeks, which is a significant number. This suggests that Long Covid is still a serious health problem affecting many individuals.
  2. Most people with Long Covid have been living with it for a long time; over 50% have had it for more than two years. Many new cases are still emerging, especially among those with repeated infections.
  3. Long Covid significantly impacts daily life for many, with nearly 73% experiencing some limitations and about 23% facing major difficulties in their daily activities. Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating.

RFK Jr.: Pedigreed Menace

OLD GOATS with Jonathan Alter • 982 implied HN points • 25 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is running for President and could potentially be used by the right to attack Joe Biden.
  2. Despite his troubled past, Kennedy's candidacy is gaining some support, particularly from conservatives and younger voters.
  3. Kennedy's controversial views and history may make him a disruptive and polarizing figure in the upcoming election.

Live Video with Dr. Amy Acton

Thinking about... • 118 implied HN points • 20 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health
  1. Dr. Amy Acton is running for governor of Ohio and has a strong background in public health. She's recognized for her calm leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  2. The upcoming live video on November 20 will be an informal chat about Ohio's issues and potential solutions.
  3. Timothy Snyder encourages viewers to join the live conversation through the Substack app and share it with others interested in the discussion.

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 Public Health
  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.

MAHA Movement Needs to Focus on Changing Processes, Not Enacting Bans

The DisInformation Chronicle • 95 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The MAHA movement should focus on improving systems instead of just putting bans in place. This means changing how things work rather than just restricting them.
  2. It's important to think about better processes to prevent problems rather than just creating rules that might not work.
  3. By changing how we do things, we can find more effective solutions that really help, instead of just saying no to certain actions.

Supreme Court Vacates NY Ruling That Amish Cannot Have an Exemption to Vaccination Requirements

Injecting Freedom • 99 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health
  1. The U.S. Supreme Court vacated the Second Circuit’s decision in Miller v. McDonald and sent the case back for reconsideration, which affects whether New York can enforce vaccine requirements against the Amish.
  2. The legal fight focuses on New York fining Amish schools for refusing mandated vaccines and whether compelling vaccination violates the community’s sincerely held religious beliefs.
  3. It is asserted that the Amish children in this matter have lower rates of chronic health issues than nearby vaccinated populations, and litigation is ongoing to defend their claimed right to avoid vaccination.

Chartbook 335 The shame of US maternal mortality - mounting crisis or chronic condition?

Chartbook • 1530 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The US has a very high maternal mortality rate compared to other wealthy countries, which is surprising given its wealth and health spending.
  2. The maternal mortality rate in the US is not improving and shows significant racial disparities, especially affecting Black and Native American women.
  3. Some experts question the accuracy of the data on maternal mortality, suggesting that it may be overstated, but overall, the problem of high maternal deaths remains a serious issue.

NIH Dissolving Pricey Infectious Disease Centers as Scripps’ Kristian Andersen Prepares to Flee the US for Norway

The DisInformation Chronicle • 590 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The NIH is shutting down its expensive Infectious Disease Centers, which were started to handle emerging diseases. This move means that some funded researchers might lose their grants.
  2. Kristian Andersen, a researcher involved in the controversial 'Proximal Origin' paper, is leaving the US to take a position at the University of Oslo. His past work has sparked serious scrutiny about its ties to grant funding.
  3. There are ongoing investigations into whether Andersen misled intelligence agencies regarding the origins of COVID-19. This has raised concerns about academic integrity and accountability.

Thanksgiving Outlook

Force of Infection • 135 implied HN points • 23 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Flu activity is starting to increase in many areas, especially among young children. It's important to stay aware of this as you celebrate Thanksgiving.
  2. COVID-19 cases are currently low, but we might see an increase soon in some states. It's something we should keep an eye on.
  3. Norovirus is on the rise, especially with Thanksgiving coming up. Make sure to wash your hands and be cautious when preparing food for others to prevent spreading it.

Department Of Homeland Security Illegally Targeted Covid Dissent, New Documents Suggest

Michael Shellenberger • 1354 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health
  1. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) might have illegally targeted people who disagreed with COVID-19 policies by pushing social media to censor certain opinions.
  2. New documents suggest that DHS started monitoring COVID-related speech as early as February 2020, raising concerns about overstepping its legal boundaries.
  3. This surveillance and censorship might violate laws that restrict government agencies from involving themselves in issues without clear permission from Congress.

Expert Critics Of The HHS Report On Youth Gender Medicine Are Projecting—And Helping Implode Their Own Credibility (Part 1 of 2)

Singal-Minded • 597 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The HHS report on youth gender medicine raises skepticism due to its ties to past administrations, but it actually offers a well-done summary of the current evidence, which is lacking in support for youth gender treatments.
  2. Critics of the HHS report, like the American Academy of Pediatrics, have responded quickly and forcefully but often without providing clear evidence or details to back up their claims.
  3. The conversation around youth gender medicine is complicated, and the rushing to judgment by authorities has damaged their credibility, making it harder for families to find trustworthy guidance.

Beware STAT News and Other Pharma-Sponsored Media Outlets

The DisInformation Chronicle • 415 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Watch out for news sources like STAT News that may be influenced by pharmaceutical companies. They might not tell the full story about drug safety.
  2. The FDA stopped the use of a gene therapy called ELEVIDYS after serious issues arose, including participant deaths. It's important to question how such treatments got approved in the first place.
  3. There may be a conflict of interest when media outlets promote certain drug companies. It's wise to consider who funds the news and the motivations behind it.

Commonwealth Fund: The U.S. Health Care System Is an International Embarrassment

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 3 HN points • 25 Sep 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. The U.S. spends a lot more on healthcare than other rich countries but still has many people in medical debt. This shows that high costs are a big issue for Americans, even for those with insurance.
  2. Many Americans, even those with jobs, are underinsured because of high deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. This leads to people avoiding necessary medical care.
  3. The government is trying to reduce medical debt and propose solutions like capping out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs. This would help many people afford their medications and healthcare services more easily.

What does the latest data tell us about Long Covid?

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 27 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Long Covid is still a big health problem, with about 2 million people in the UK affected as of March 2024.
  2. Certain groups are more likely to suffer from Long Covid, such as those living in poorer areas and certain ethnic groups, especially Mixed and Asian communities.
  3. Many people with Long Covid experience serious symptoms that greatly affect their daily activities, especially if they've been suffering for over two years.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 25, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health
  1. Covid cases in England have stabilized, with low hospital admissions, even though there was a slight rise in positivity rates this week.
  2. Long Covid continues to affect about 2 million people in England and Scotland, especially those aged 45 to 64, with many suffering for over two years.
  3. A new Spring Covid vaccine campaign is underway, targeting the elderly and vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions against Covid.