A study published in JAMA Pediatrics examined the relationship between screen use at bedtime and sleep duration and quality among youths aged 11 to 14 years. Conducted from March to December 2021 in Dunedin, New Zealand, the repeated-measures cohort study involved 79 participants. The researchers used wearable or stationary cameras to objectively measure screen time...
In recent years, the impact of “unhealthy commodities” such as tobacco, alcohol, social media, and ultra-processed foods on mental health has garnered increasing attention from researchers and public health officials. A comprehensive study led by Kate Dun-Campbell from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine sheds light on these commercial determinants and their association...
Cannabis use has long been promoted by its advocates as a safe, natural alternative to other substances. However, recent research challenges this perception, highlighting significant health risks associated with its use, particularly concerning cardiovascular health. A study conducted in France has brought to light alarming statistics regarding the increased risk of heart attacks and strokes...
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition characterised by painful, inflamed nodules, primarily affecting areas rich in apocrine glands. Established as a risk factor, tobacco smoking has been closely linked with the development of HS. Yet, the influence of smoking cessation on HS risk remains underexplored. A comprehensive nationwide cohort study involving over 6...
Adolescence marks a critical period in the development of lifelong habits, including those related to alcohol use. A comprehensive cohort study published in JAMA Network Open delves into the complex factors influencing alcohol misuse trajectories from adolescence to young adulthood. This study employs latent growth curve modelling to analyse the impact of personality traits, social...
An article from Medium contrasts the lives and drinking habits of musicians Jimmy Buffett and Steve Harwell to illustrate different outcomes related to alcohol consumption. Jimmy Buffett, known for his “island escapism” lifestyle, has managed to balance his drinking with a successful career and relatively good health. In contrast, Steve Harwell, former lead singer of...
In a compelling opinion piece, Julian Somers discusses the pressing issues of addiction and homelessness and advocates for evidence-based solutions, as published by the Vancouver Sun. Somers highlights the success of recovery-oriented housing, which has shown significant effectiveness and cost savings compared to current approaches. He points to international examples, such as Portugal’s focus on...
Alcohol consumption is a pervasive issue worldwide, with significant implications for public health. Understanding the factors that influence drinking behaviour is crucial for developing effective interventions. A recent study explores the role of memory in moderating alcohol consumption, specifically in females, by examining how recollecting a prior drinking episode can reduce the motivation to drink....
Sleep is a fundamental element of childhood development, impacting everything from cognitive growth to emotional regulation. Recent research from Penn State University adds another dimension to the importance of sleep by linking childhood sleep patterns to adolescent substance use. Specifically, the study investigates how sleep duration and bedtime in early years can influence the likelihood...
As the global population ages, understanding the health impacts of lifestyle choices, such as alcohol consumption, becomes increasingly significant. Recent research sheds light on the potential risks associated with regular alcohol consumption for individuals over the age of 60, emphasising a heightened risk of early death, particularly from cancer and cardiovascular issues. Study Overview A...