The hottest Public Health Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics
Rory’s Always On Newsletter 575 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. Small changes can lead to big improvements in the NHS, like having administrators handle tasks normally done by doctors, which can cut waiting times significantly.
  2. Many missed hospital appointments could be avoided by improving text reminders and allowing patients to choose their own appointment times, which leads to better attendance rates.
  3. Using simple tech solutions or AI to remind patients about appointments can really help reduce the number of people who don't show up, making the system work better for everyone.
The DisInformation Chronicle 380 implied HN points 12 Jun 25
  1. Michael Hiltzik, a columnist, has been accused of unethical behavior in his journalism, particularly related to COVID-19 vaccine injuries. This raises concerns about the integrity of the information being shared.
  2. Dr. Danice Hertz and Brianne Dressen, both of whom suffered from vaccine injuries, highlight that their experiences are often dismissed and labeled unfairly, emphasizing the need for more open dialogue and research into vaccine side effects.
  3. The reactions and symptoms reported by these individuals are real and significant, stressing the importance of informed consent and proper medical attention for those who experience adverse reactions to vaccines.
Your Local Epidemiologist 1591 implied HN points 28 May 25
  1. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) can be convenient and affordable, but they are often linked to health issues like obesity and heart disease. It's important to know that not all processed foods are bad; some can actually be nutritious.
  2. Research shows that diets high in UPFs may lead to overeating and poorer health, but the exact reasons for this aren't fully understood yet. The type of UPF matters, with sugary drinks and processed meats being the most harmful.
  3. To eat healthier, you can look for foods with lower added sugars and sodium, while being mindful of marketing claims. Sometimes, it’s okay to include UPFs in your diet, especially when they meet your specific needs.
The Honest Broker Newsletter 1118 implied HN points 10 Jun 25
  1. RFK Jr. removed the entire vaccine advisory committee to try to restore public trust in vaccines. This move sparked debate about whether it truly addresses the underlying issues of trust.
  2. Public trust in health institutions has been declining, especially along party lines. Democrats and Republicans view vaccine safety and the credibility of health agencies differently.
  3. Political influence on scientific advice can be harmful. Experts should be chosen for their competency, not their political ties, to ensure credible and trusted public health guidance.
Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts 118 implied HN points 01 Mar 25
  1. The media often overlooks the larger issues in biomedical policy and fails to connect the dots in their reporting. They focus too much on individual actions instead of discussing significant systemic problems.
  2. There is a need for reform in the current biomedical system, particularly regarding how funding and resources are allocated. Many aspects of this system are outdated and not effectively serving public health needs.
  3. It's important to have honest discussions about proposed changes in biomedical policies, rather than framing them as attacks on science. Constructive debate can lead to better solutions and improvements in healthcare.
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Popular Rationalism 1803 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. A court ruled that Merck can lie about vaccine data and not face legal consequences, which many find troubling. This means that companies can manipulate important health information without being punished.
  2. The FDA is criticized for allowing Merck to use misleading data for years while still approving its vaccines. This raises questions about whether the FDA is really protecting public health.
  3. The ruling sets a worrying example because it may reduce public trust in vaccines and pharmaceutical companies. People might feel less safe knowing that companies can distort facts without repercussions.
Popular Rationalism 1486 implied HN points 13 Oct 24
  1. The FDA has created a new Office of Inspections and Investigations, which gives it more power to regulate food production. This raises worries that the agency might focus on favoring big corporations instead of local farmers.
  2. There are concerns that the FDA's actions might align with global agendas, particularly from organizations like the World Economic Forum, which could limit local food production and farmers' rights in the name of environmental goals.
  3. If the FDA continues to enforce regulations that prioritize industrial farming over local agriculture, it could threaten food sovereignty, making the U.S. more reliant on centralized agricultural systems instead of supporting local food sources.
Popular Rationalism 970 implied HN points 17 Oct 24
  1. The CBS News report about whooping cough vaccines contained misinformation, suggesting adults need a booster every ten years for pertussis. This is misleading because the CDC does not recommend regular boosters for pertussis.
  2. The effectiveness of the pertussis vaccine decreases significantly within a few years, meaning people can still get infected and spread the disease even after vaccination. This poses risks, especially to infants who are not fully vaccinated.
  3. The vaccine does not provide herd immunity, making it difficult to rely on vaccinated adults to protect vulnerable groups. The public should be educated about the limitations of the vaccine and the risks of asymptomatic carriers.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 3909 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. The FDA recently banned Red Dye No. 3 due to concerns about its link to thyroid cancer in animals. It's a small victory, but there are many other potentially harmful additives still being used.
  2. Red Dye No. 3 will likely be replaced by Red Dye No. 40, which also has warnings about its effects on children in Europe. This shows that simply switching one dye for another isn't a true solution.
  3. There is a growing concern that synthetic dyes are just a small part of a larger problem with harmful chemicals in our food and products. It's important for consumers to demand safer options.
COVID Reason 793 implied HN points 18 Oct 24
  1. Masks became a way for people to show off their moral values, as if wearing one makes them better than others. It's interesting how people judge each other based on this simple piece of fabric.
  2. There’s a lot of confusion about how effective masks really are, with people switching their opinions constantly. This confusion helps keep people divided and distracted.
  3. Wearing masks has turned into a sign of tribal loyalty, where people identify if someone is 'with them' or 'against them.' This shows how easily they fall back on basic group instincts.
Popular Rationalism 534 implied HN points 21 Oct 24
  1. U.S. public health officials and researchers may have acted in ways that helped foreign countries, especially China, instead of focusing solely on American interests. This raises questions about whether they were following the law.
  2. There is evidence suggesting that decisions made by U.S. health leaders, like lifting a ban on risky research, potentially contributed to the COVID-19 outbreak. Their actions may not have prioritized public safety.
  3. A lack of transparency and accountability in how health officials manage information during the pandemic has eroded public trust. Many feel that critical details about the virus's origins were suppressed to protect certain interests.
Bailiwick News 1783 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. From 1911 to 1943, U.S. Congress didn't create laws to establish clear definitions or standards for biological products, like vaccines and toxins. This meant there were no guidelines for safety or labeling requirements.
  2. The 1902 Virus-Toxin Act only focused on the licensing of manufacturers, not the products themselves. This led to a lack of oversight on what was in those products and whether they were safe to use.
  3. Even with new regulations in later years, there was still confusion and gaps in laws about the safety and efficacy of biological products, allowing manufacturers to operate without strict requirements.
Michael Shellenberger 1628 implied HN points 23 May 25
  1. The Biden Administration labeled people against COVID-19 mandates as 'Domestic Violent Extremists'. This led to concerns about freedom of speech.
  2. Documents suggest that this label allows authorities to investigate these individuals, often starting with assessments by the FBI.
  3. Criticism of the mandates is linked to various conspiracy theories, which could influence actions by social media companies to remove related content.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2049 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. Trump's approach to foreign policy focuses mainly on the Americas, which could leave the U.S. vulnerable in other parts of the world. It's important for the U.S. to stay influential globally as it affects everyone back home.
  2. The release of DeepSeek, an AI model from China, could push the U.S. to enhance its technology efforts. This represents a big moment for innovation, similar to the space race.
  3. San Francisco is reconsidering its harm reduction strategies for drug addiction as overdose rates rise. Some leaders are looking for stricter laws, including mass arrests to get users into treatment.
The DisInformation Chronicle 590 implied HN points 05 Jun 25
  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.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1683 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is facing strong opposition in his Senate confirmation hearing as Trump's pick for Health and Human Services. The situation shows a surprising shift in political relationships as former friends now oppose him over party lines.
  2. The rise of the MAHA moms is being compared to the influential soccer moms of the past. These women are rallying around health issues for their children and using their voices to impact legislation.
  3. Critics of the MAHA movement warn that it may overlook the needs of working-class Americans who struggle with health issues and don’t have the means to support the lifestyle changes promoted by the movement.
Asimov Press 206 implied HN points 23 Feb 25
  1. Lenacapavir is a new injectable drug that can prevent HIV for up to six months, showing a higher effectiveness than daily pills.
  2. The drug is being offered at reduced prices in many low-income countries, but there are concerns about access and affordability in some regions.
  3. Despite its promise, lenacapavir's future depends on getting it to those who need it, especially given changes in government funding for HIV prevention programs.
Disaffected Newsletter 2457 implied HN points 06 Sep 24
  1. Oktoberfest in Burlington was canceled due to health concerns about Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which affects mosquitoes in the area.
  2. Despite the low number of cases, local officials advised residents to avoid outdoor activities during certain hours to prevent infections.
  3. The response reflects a larger trend of reacting emotionally to health risks, leading to broader community actions that some see as extreme or unnecessary.
COVID Reason 753 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a flood of poor-quality scientific studies. Many rushed papers were published that had unreliable findings, highlighting a major issue in research standards.
  2. To improve science in the future, researchers need to focus on real problems and provide real-world data instead of relying heavily on models. Transparency is also crucial so everyone can trust the research and its sources.
  3. Healthcare workers faced immense challenges during the pandemic and deserve more support. The lessons learned from this crisis should help us prioritize quality scientific work and the human aspect of healthcare.
Noahpinion 13470 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  1. RFK Jr. has been a strong opponent of vaccines, which may influence U.S. vaccination policies if he takes a leadership role in the government. This could lead to less public support for vaccinations.
  2. Beliefs can be useful for creating group unity, even if those beliefs are not based on facts. Sometimes, being a part of a group means accepting ideas that might not be true in reality.
  3. The tension between what is real and what people believe can impact society. It shows how important it is to balance scientific facts with how communities view and accept those facts.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 18799 implied HN points 08 Nov 24
  1. The vaccines didn't work as well as promised, and it's important to look at how the public was informed about them. Many people might have been misled about their effectiveness.
  2. There was a lot of pressure from officials to follow strict guidelines, but some of these recommendations may not have been based on solid research.
  3. The narrative that there was a 'pandemic of the unvaccinated' was likely part of a larger campaign, aimed at stirring emotions and turning the public against each other.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 14365 implied HN points 19 Nov 24
  1. The term 'fringe' is often used to dismiss views that many people actually support. It's important to reconsider what we label as fringe.
  2. Critics can be quick to judge individuals based on their views without considering the larger public opinion that might align with those views.
  3. There seems to be a disconnect between mainstream experts and the beliefs of the general population, leading to debates about academic freedom and public health policy.
David Friedman’s Substack 206 implied HN points 23 Feb 25
  1. The pandemic response showed many mistakes, like unnecessary lockdowns and wrong theories about how the virus spread. Learning from these errors can help us better handle future pandemics.
  2. Politics played a big role in how people reacted to health measures, with facts becoming linked to personal beliefs. This shows how polarized views can affect public health decisions.
  3. Trust in science was low because there were no clear, reliable sources of information. It's important to establish trustworthy scientific reporting to avoid confusion during health crises.
Your Local Epidemiologist 1287 implied HN points 19 May 25
  1. A recent breakthrough in genetics used new tools to fix a baby's rare disease by editing their DNA. This could lead to treatments for many other genetic disorders.
  2. Florida is removing fluoride from drinking water, which could affect many people's dental health. This decision might inspire other states to follow suit.
  3. Proposed cuts to Medicaid could leave 8.6 million people without health coverage, highlighting the importance of contacting lawmakers about healthcare access.
Popular Rationalism 574 implied HN points 16 Oct 24
  1. mRNA vaccines face big challenges because of how fast RNA viruses can change. It's unlikely they'll be able to completely eliminate the virus over time.
  2. These vaccines can push viruses to evolve in ways that make them escape detection and survive better. This means the virus can keep changing and might even become more dangerous.
  3. Natural immunity, from getting the virus instead of a vaccine, can be broader and may help prevent newer variants. This shows how different immune responses can affect how the virus evolves.
Your Local Epidemiologist 1591 implied HN points 15 May 25
  1. Drug prices in the U.S. are much higher than in other countries because drug companies set their own prices, and patents keep competition away for many years. This results in Americans paying more for medications.
  2. High drug prices lead people to skip doses or avoid taking medicine altogether, which can result in serious health issues. Many people can't afford their medications, causing preventable health problems.
  3. There are possible solutions to lower drug prices, like the government negotiating prices and reforming patents to allow generics more quickly. However, it requires public pressure and political will to make these changes happen.
Unmasked 92 implied HN points 27 Feb 25
  1. There was a lot of misinformation about COVID vaccines when they came out. Experts made claims that were not supported by facts, leading to confusion about their effectiveness.
  2. Key figures like Dr. Fauci and Rochelle Walensky made statements that turned out to be incorrect, which worsened public trust and guided harmful policies.
  3. Recent research suggests that the long-term side effects of vaccines are more significant than previously acknowledged, highlighting ongoing issues around vaccine communication and transparency.
COVID Reason 1050 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. Chaos and confusion can be more powerful than a virus. When people are confused, they struggle to find the truth.
  2. Control is the real goal, not just dealing with the virus itself. Keeping people afraid and divided helps maintain that control.
  3. History shows us that fear can tear communities apart. Encouraging suspicion between neighbors can lead to a lot of conflict and chaos.
Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts 180 implied HN points 24 Feb 25
  1. FDA approvals for Pfizer drugs may not have enough safety and effectiveness data. This raises concerns about the reliability of the drugs available to the public.
  2. There is a pattern of FDA regulators moving to jobs at pharmaceutical companies after approving their products. This can create a conflict of interest and lead to questions about transparency.
  3. The system seems designed to favor big pharmaceutical companies rather than prioritize patient safety and well-being. This indicates a troubling relationship between regulators and the companies they oversee.
Singal-Minded 597 implied HN points 04 Jun 25
  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.
Astral Codex Ten 27324 implied HN points 01 Jan 25
  1. H5N1 bird flu started in birds but can spread to other animals and possibly humans. There are concerns about it becoming a bigger threat as it mutates.
  2. Currently, experts estimate a 5% chance of H5N1 causing a human pandemic in the next year, but it could rise to 50% over the next 20 years.
  3. If H5N1 does become a pandemic, most forecasts suggest it won't be as deadly as the Spanish flu, with risks ranging from normal flu severity to several times worse.
Unreported Truths 28 implied HN points 11 Jun 25
  1. The Berenson v Biden case is on hold until a judge makes a decision. The government asked for more time, which both sides agreed to.
  2. There are different claims in the lawsuit, some against government officials and some against private individuals. It's complicated because some defendants have roles in both categories.
  3. Everyone is waiting for the judge's ruling, and it’s unclear what the outcome will be. The situation involves a lot of legal details and intertwining parties.
COVID Reason 495 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. Government lockdowns during the pandemic didn't work as intended and caused more harm than good, affecting people's mental health and education.
  2. Censorship stifled important discussions and alternative viewpoints, which are essential for scientific progress.
  3. Academic institutions didn't uphold free expression and debate, which is key for critical thinking and finding the truth.
HEALTH CARE un-covered 439 implied HN points 23 Sep 24
  1. Ten states have not expanded Medicaid, leaving millions of people without health coverage. These states have some of the highest rates of uninsured residents.
  2. Many people in the coverage gap are working but still can't afford health insurance. Their incomes are too high for Medicaid but too low for ACA subsidies.
  3. The refusal to expand Medicaid often comes from political choices, not a lack of need. Many residents want the expansion, but their state governments are not listening.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2160 implied HN points 15 Jan 25
  1. Climate change isn't the main cause of the L.A. fires; rather, the amount of flammable material and infrastructure choices play a bigger role. Clearing brush and using fireproof materials in construction can help save areas from fires.
  2. Steven Koonin argues that focusing solely on reducing carbon emissions won't address the immediate fire risks. He believes there are more direct and practical solutions to prevent such disasters.
  3. The discussion highlights differing opinions on climate issues, especially in relation to immediate environmental disasters like wildfires. It's important to consider various factors rather than attributing everything to climate change.
David Friedman’s Substack 233 implied HN points 20 Feb 25
  1. Fertility rates are dropping worldwide, even in nations that used to have high rates. This is happening due to reasons like better job opportunities for women and fewer economic benefits from having children.
  2. The decline in fertility can have mixed effects, such as less housing and resources per person, but also potential challenges in creating new ideas and technology due to fewer people contributing.
  3. To address the fertility decline, options include promoting family support or medical advancements that make having children easier, although implementing these solutions can be complicated.
News from Uncibal 835 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. Alcohol is more than just a drink; it's linked to our freedom. When people try to limit our drinking, it can mean they're also trying to limit other freedoms.
  2. Drinking responsibly helps us learn about our choices and how to live with others. It's part of growing up and being a good citizen in society.
  3. If society starts to restrict our alcohol consumption, it could show a bigger problem. It might mean that people are becoming less capable of handling their freedoms well.
The Shores of Academia 39 implied HN points 29 Oct 24
  1. The CDC report links frequent social media use to increased risks of bullying, feelings of sadness, and suicidal thoughts among teens. It found that a significant number of high school students use social media frequently, which may affect their mental health.
  2. Chris Ferguson criticizes the CDC report, claiming it shows bias and incompetence without providing solid evidence for his accusations. He describes the CDC's findings as exaggerated and accuses the authors of unethical behavior, which raises questions about his arguments.
  3. The conversation around social media impacts on mental health is polarizing, with some dismissing concerns as moral panic. This reflects a broader debate about the effects of digital technology on youth and the responsibility of researchers to communicate findings accurately.
Astral Codex Ten 14935 implied HN points 07 Feb 25
  1. To improve kidney donations, policies may allow compensation for organ donors, which could help reduce the waiting list and save lives.
  2. There is a push for better transparency in healthcare data from the FDA, which could improve research and lead to safer medical products.
  3. Novel research ideas are often underfunded, so increasing support for unconventional studies and human challenge trials could speed up medical advancements.