The American Journal of Public Health has released a significant new collection titled "CDC’s Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities: Lessons Learned." This collection features a range of promising practices from state, local, and territorial organizations that were funded through the COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant.   The grant aimed to address health disparities exacerbated by the pandemic, particularly among racial and ethnic minority groups and people in rural areas. By providing a crucial funding boost to 108 health departments, the grant enhanced their capacity to...

In the latest ASTHO Public Health Review Morning Podcast, Dr. Marcus Plescia provides an update on current COVID-19 rates across the U.S., highlighting ongoing trends and concerns. Robert Jennings from the National Public Health Information Coalition (NPHIC) discusses the promising role of AI in enhancing public health communication, offering insights into how technology can improve outreach and effectiveness.   Additionally, an upcoming ASTHO webinar will delve into strategies for public outreach, focusing on increasing awareness of PPC services and engaging communities more effectively....

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra recently highlighted the growing public health crisis caused by extreme heat, particularly during his visit to Phoenix, Arizona, where temperatures have soared into triple digits. Becerra emphasized that climate change is driving this crisis, with rising heat levels now posing a greater threat than traditional cold-weather emergencies.   He pointed out that extreme heat is responsible for numerous fatalities, with approximately 1,220 heat-related deaths occurring annually in the U.S. The Biden administration is responding by proposing...

Provisional data for 2023 shows over 3 million deaths in the U.S., with a 6.1% decrease in the age-adjusted death rate compared to 2022. Notably, COVID-19 deaths dropped by 68.9% from 2022. The highest death rates were among non-Hispanic Black individuals, while the lowest were among multiracial individuals.   Leading causes of death included heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injury, with COVID-19 falling to the tenth leading cause. These findings underscore the importance of timely data in shaping public health policies, particularly for high-mortality populations. Monitoring...

Mark your calendars for the 2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) from July 29-31 in Atlanta, GA. Celebrating its 17th year, NCHCMM unites academia, public health researchers, practitioners from federal and state governments, and industry leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue.   Co-hosted by the CDC and NPHIC, this premier public health communications conference promotes innovative ideas and new approaches in health communication, marketing, and media. Attendees can share research, discuss emerging trends, and network with experts in the...