Speaker says epidemiology got its start centuries ago
September 24, 2012 -- Can an academic discipline have an exact birthday? Alfredo Morabia thinks so, and he believes that epidemiology’s 350th birthday is 2012—because 1662 is the year that an Englishman named John Graunt compiled, for the first time…
Life expectancy declines among least-educated whites
Life expectancy among the least-educated white Americans has fallen markedly over the past two decades, according to recent research, including some studies by Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) experts. A front-page article in the September 20, 2012…
Lower birth rates bring economic benefits but raise short-term inequality
As a country’s birthrate declines, people of working age make up a larger share of the population, which can fuel economic improvement. But a new study by Harvard School of Public Health researchers finds that lower birthrates raise…
HSPH students create map of toilets in Mumbai slum, aim to improve sanitation
In the Mumbai slum known as Cheeta Camp, there’s a problem with toilets. There aren’t enough; people don’t like the public toilets run by the government because they’re dirty and dark; and little kids mostly don’t use the…
Harsh immigration policies may undermine public safety, study finds
May 2, 2012 Tough enforcement of immigration laws may limit illegal immigration—the intended consequence—but may also have the unintended effect of undermining public safety, by alienating immigrants and thus making them less likely to cooperate with police on…
Report says countries must address needs of world's aging population
April 6, 2012 The needs of the world’s growing over-60 population should be addressed “early and swiftly” to minimize the risk of future strain on health and economic resources and to maximize the well-being and productivity of what…
Population explosion demands thoughtful response
With the world’s population projected to reach a staggering 9.3 billion by 2050, it’s imperative that there be a thoughtful and vigorous response to the challenges posed by such demographic upheaval, says David Bloom, HSPH professor of economics…
World population to surpass 7 billion in 2011
Explosive Population Growth Means Challenges for Developing Nations For immediate release: Thursday, July 28, 2011 Boston, MA - Global population is expected to hit 7 billion later this year, up from 6 billion in 1999. Between now and…
Rapid population growth poses daunting challenges for Africa
The world’s population is predicted to reach 10.1 billion by 2100, according to a United Nations report released May 3, 2011. Much of the growth is expected to occur in Africa, where the population could triple to 3.6 billion by…
Report recommends new United Nations Population Fund head focus on sexual and reproductive health
The new head of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) should focus on the agency’s core mission—promoting sexual and reproductive health, including universal access to family planning, according to a new report by a Center for Global Development…