LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Don’t Miss the Closing Plenary at NCHCMM!
Be sure to join us on Wednesday, July 30, for the powerful closing plenary at the National Conference for Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) in Atlanta: Communicating the Value of Public Health. Sponsored by Deloitte and organized by PHCC and NPHIC, this dynamic session brings together leading voices—Brian Castrucci, Katherine Reed, and Amelia Burke-Garcia—for a conversation on how storytelling, media strategy, and innovation can reshape public understanding of public health. Walk away inspired to elevate your messaging and impact.
This plenary is a must-attend for public health professionals seeking practical strategies to cut through misinformation, engage diverse audiences, and demonstrate the critical role of public health in improving lives. Register today to be part of this energizing conclusion to NCHCMM!
Study Reveals Decline in Mental Health Among U.S. Mothers
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine highlights a significant and ongoing decline in mental health among U.S. mothers—dropping from 38% reporting “excellent” mental health in 2016 to just 26% in 2023.
Conducted by researchers at Columbia University and the University of Michigan, the study analyzed data from nearly 200,000 mothers and found the downturn began even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health experts warn this trend poses a wider risk, as maternal mental health is closely linked to children’s developmental outcomes. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustained, systemic public health strategies that support maternal well-being beyond pregnancy and postpartum care. Read more from The Hill here.
40 Under 40 in Public Health – Deadline is Friday
The de Beaumont Foundation is now accepting nominations for its 40 Under 40 in Public Health Class of 2025, a prestigious program recognizing exceptional leaders under age 40 who are addressing public health challenges and improving community health. Honorees will receive national recognition, exclusive opportunities for career advancement, and professional development to support their continued impact in the field.
Nominations are open through this Friday, June 13, with the Class of 2025 being announced in the fall. This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the work of emerging public health leaders. Nominate yourself or a deserving colleague today and help shape the future of public health. Learn more here.
FEATURED TOPICS
Like Measles, Misinformation is Spreading, Poll Finds
As measles cases surge past 800 nationwide—most in Texas—a new KFF poll reveals a troubling rise in public exposure to vaccine misinformation. While most Americans still trust the measles vaccine’s safety, many report uncertainty when encountering false claims, such as the vaccine causing autism or vitamin A preventing infection.
Notably, 19% of adults believe the vaccine may be more dangerous than the disease. A clear political divide also emerged, with Republicans more likely to believe misinformation. Most concerning: parents who believe such falsehoods are more than twice as likely to delay or skip their children’s vaccines—highlighting an urgent public health communication challenge. Read the full article from NPR here.
FDA Making Plans to End its Routine Food Safety Inspections
The FDA is reportedly exploring plans to shift most routine food safety inspections to state and local agencies—a move that could free up federal resources but raises concerns about oversight and consistency. While the FDA says inspections will continue during a reorganization period, internal sources and layoffs suggest significant changes are underway.
States already handle about one-third of routine inspections, often at lower costs, and supporters argue they meet federal standards. However, critics warn the transition could undermine national food safety, especially in states without inspection contracts. Public health leaders are watching closely, as this shift could reshape federal-state responsibilities in protecting the U.S. food supply. Read more from CBS here.
Deadliest Phase of Fentanyl Crisis Eases, As All States See Recovery
New research from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals a dramatic and sustained decline in fentanyl-related overdose deaths, marking a potential turning point in the opioid crisis. According to CDC data, drug deaths have dropped by nearly 25%, with fentanyl-related fatalities decreasing by over 30% in just one year.
Experts, including Dr. Nabarun Dasgupta, suggest this trend may be long-term, with overdose deaths in some states falling to pre-pandemic levels. While the reasons remain unclear, improved access to Narcan and shifts in drug use behavior may be contributing factors. If sustained, the U.S. could return to pre-2016 overdose levels, signaling a major public health victory. Read the full story from NPR here.
New Ethical AI Guidelines: A Must-Read for Public Health Communicators
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping public health communication, and NPHIC has proudly contributed to a groundbreaking new resource: the Guidelines for the Ethical Use of AI in Public Health Communications. Developed by a diverse working group of public health and technology leaders, this initiative ensures AI is used responsibly while upholding accuracy, transparency, and equity.
Executive Director Robert Jennings and NPHIC supported this effort to provide communicators with practical, adaptable principles for integrating AI ethically. Access the short guide or full working paper here and read more about the guide here and be part of the conversation shaping the future of AI in public health!
