News

Restriction vs. incentives: The complex reality of SNAP food policies

U-M expert: SNAP food restrictions don't improve health outcomes, while incentive programs show promise

Several states are considering restricting SNAP benefit purchases for soda and certain products like chips and candy. Michigan Public Health professor and researcher Kate Bauer explains why such restrictions fail to improve health outcomes while increasing stigma, and offers evidence-based alternatives that preserve dignity for recipients.

Canady: 'A just world is healthier tomorrow than it is today for all'

National public health thought leader states case for making room at the table for everyone

Renée Branch Canady, known for her eloquence and passion for public health, delivered a heartfelt message of hope amid challenging times on April 1 at the University of Michigan School of Public Health’s Cornely Community Room. The talk, “Bring a Folding Chair: Making Room at the Table for Health Equity," was a fitting reminder of how pivotal health equity is within the work and lives of the public health community.

April Zeoli receives 2024 presidential award for public engagement

Zeoli, associate professor of Health Management and Policy at the School of Public Health, received the President’s Award for Public Impact. She is the nation’s leading expert on policy interventions for firearm use in intimate partner violence.

On the Heights: March 2025

Departmental news, research highlights, community achievements, and more to help you stay connected with the Michigan Public Health community.

HIV risk decreases in transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse individuals receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy, U-M study says

Overall, the study, published in The Lancet HIV journal, found that hormone therapy for patients receiving medical care to align their physical characteristics with their gender identity improved all HIV-related health outcomes for transgender, nonbinary and gender diverse people.

A ripple effect of cutting global vaccine programs

Q&A with Abram Wagner

Epidemiologist Abram Wagner discusses why US funding for global vaccination programs benefits Americans through job creation, disease prevention, and economic stability, while building international goodwill and protecting vulnerable populations worldwide.