Epidemiologic Science Results

Flu clues: Digging into 15 years of household data

$14.2-million NIH award to University of Michigan funds research to untangle intricacies of person-to-person flu transmission—and reduce illness, deaths, economic losses

A $14.2 million NIH award launches MiCRIT, where Michigan Public Health's Emily Toth Martin and the Medical School's Adam Lauring will mine 15 years of household data to learn how flu spreads person to person and how to stop it.

Common weed killer may affect hormones tied to pregnancy and fetal development, new research finds

Higher glyphosate levels were linked to hormonal shifts in a study of pregnant women in Puerto Rico.

Researchers measured glyphosate and its breakdown product AMPA in urine samples from pregnant women, then tracked how levels corresponded to shifts in estrogen, thyroid hormones, and CRH—a hormone tied to labor and stress response.

National biodefense leaders call for coordination and stable public health support

The University of Michigan hosted the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense for campus discussions on strengthening US preparedness for biological threats. Leaders highlighted the need for sustained federal leadership, stable research funding, and bipartisan action. Speakers urged One Health coordination, clearer public communication, and updated biodefense strategy to protect supply chains and counter outbreaks.

Cumulative lead exposure linked to increased Alzheimer's and dementia risk, U-M study finds

Researchers show bone lead from past environmental exposures increases dementia risk in older US adults

New U-M research reveals older adults with high cumulative lead exposure face nearly triple the Alzheimer's risk. The study suggests reducing population lead levels could prevent thousands of dementia cases annually.

Study pairs key air pollutants with home addresses to track progression of lost mobility through disability

Research traces 10 years of exposure to deteriorating mobility in older Americans

Long-term exposure to higher residential air pollution levels is associated with faster declines in physical function and reduced chances of recovery, according to a new U-M study. The research suggests cleaner air may allow people to stay stronger and more independent as they age.

Building a better vaccine: Study IDs expanded, role of flu antibodies in preventing transmission

Findings suggest future vaccines use natural antibodies to target both infection and spread

Today’s influenza vaccines primarily prevent infection in individuals, but new research led by the University of Michigan and the Institut Pasteur suggests that incorporating antibodies generated after infection could lead to more powerful vaccines by also reducing person-to-person transmission.