LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
New PHCC Guide Offers Practical Strategies for Public Health Communicators
The Public Health Communication Collaborative (PHCC) has released Overcoming Challenges & Leveraging Strengths: An Action Guide for Communicators at Public Health Agencies, a new resource designed to support governmental public health communicators.
Based on 50 in-depth interviews with health department communicators across the country, the guide identifies 14 key factors that influence communications effectiveness, including staffing, authority, relationships, political context, and technology.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, the guide provides practical tactics recommended by peers and a “choose-your-own-adventure” format with worksheets to help teams assess their current environment and identify realistic steps to strengthen their communications efforts.
GLP-1s Could Help Curb Substance Use Disorders
Emerging research suggests GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, may help reduce use of alcohol, opioids, nicotine, and other substances. A recent study analyzed records from over 600,000 adults with Type 2 diabetes, finding fewer hospitalizations, emergency visits, and deaths among those using GLP-1s compared with other diabetes drugs.
While most prior research focused on alcohol use disorder, these findings point to broader potential effects on multiple substance use disorders and possibly prevention. Researchers note further randomized trials are needed, but GLP-1s may represent a promising tool in addressing substance use from a public health perspective. Read more from NBC News here.
ASTHO Webinar Explores Strategies for Radiological Risk Communication
Public health communicators play a critical role in preparing communities for complex emergencies, including radiological events. In an upcoming webinar hosted by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), radiation readiness communications expert Jessica Wieder will share insights from her career in radiological preparedness and emergency communications.
The discussion will explore key considerations for effective risk communication, including coordinating messages across agencies, addressing public concerns, and countering misinformation. Participants will also learn about practical tools and resources designed to strengthen preparedness planning and support state, local, and territorial public health partners working to deliver clear, trusted information during emergencies. Register here.
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New Voices From the Field Podcast: Sharing to Survive: Building Resilient Health Communication Research Networks through AI-Powered Collaboration
Recorded during the 2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) in Atlanta, NPHIC’s Public Health Speaks podcast continues its Voices from the Field series with a new episode, Sharing to Survive: Building Resilient Health Communication Research Networks through AI-Powered Collaboration.
In this conversation, Dr. Kristen Swain, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Journalism at the University of Mississippi, examines how emerging AI tools can help health communication researchers share smarter, break down silos, and strengthen cross-sector collaboration. The episode explores how AI-powered collaboration can accelerate knowledge sharing, improve research translation, and build more resilient systems to address complex public health challenges—offering timely insights for communicators, researchers, and AI-curious professionals alike. Listen to the episode here.
Journalism, Media, and Technology Trends and Predictions for 2026
For public health communicators, the ways audiences access and trust information are shifting faster than ever, driven by generative AI and the rise of personality-led news. A 2026 global survey of media leaders highlights declining engagement with traditional journalism, especially among younger audiences who prefer platforms, influencers, and AI-powered “answer engines.”
Publishers anticipate major drops in search and social referral traffic and are pivoting toward original reporting, human-centered stories, and video and audio formats. While AI offers efficiencies in newsgathering and distribution, it also risks commoditizing general news. These trends emphasize the importance of credible voices, adaptable content, and meeting audiences where they increasingly seek information. Read more from Reuters here.
Exercise is as Effective as Medication in Treating Depression, Study Finds
A new Cochrane review of 73 randomized controlled trials involving 5,000 people finds that exercise—ranging from light walking to moderate activity—can be as effective as medication or therapy in reducing depressive symptoms. Exercise boosts neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, and supports brain neuroplasticity through increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), enhancing the brain’s ability to adapt.
Combining aerobic and resistance training may offer additional benefit. Experts note that exercise is low-cost, accessible, and generally safe, yet remains underutilized, underscoring its potential as a foundational, first-line public health strategy for mental wellness. Read more from NPR here.
OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Health in a Push to Become a Hub for Personal Health Data
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Health, a dedicated platform allowing users to securely connect medical records and wellness apps to personalize health conversations. Designed to enhance patient engagement and decision-making, the tool flags potential medication risks by integrating user data without training its AI on personal medical information.
Early examples highlight its potential to help patients navigate complex care systems. While initially available to a limited group, OpenAI plans broader rollout on web and iOS. ChatGPT Health incorporates layered protections, multi-factor authentication, and record management features, signaling a growing intersection of AI and public health communication. Read more from Fortune here.
