Child Health

pistol silhouette

The Facts on the US Children and Teens Killed by Firearms

Marc A Zimmerman, Patrick Carter, Rebecca Cunningham

Injury is the leading cause of death for U.S. children and adolescents, accounting for over 60% of all deaths in this group. Many of these deaths occur during fun, everyday activities, like swimming in the backyard pool or during a family car ride. But a disproportionate and disturbing number of these deaths in the U.S. occur as a result of firearms.

Solitary Confinement in a Prison

Solitary Confinement of Adolescents: A Mental Health Crisis

Madison Polay, BS '19

Though an Obama-era executive order prohibits solitary confinement of juveniles in the federal prison system, in part because of negative mental health implications, state prison systems not subject to federal regulation continue to isolate minors. Michigan Public Health graduate Madison Polay explores the issue and the need for critical policy change.

stressed teenage student sitting outside of school

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Public Health and Public Schools to Support Students

Laura Hollander, MPH '19

Many Michigan public schools are under pressure to improve student grades and test scores. But currently the connection between student grades and student health is under-recognized. To improve student health, schools should include public health programs about mental and behavioral health in classrooms.

the interior of a prison block seen through prison bars

Inadequate Health Care: A Significant Problem Affecting Incarcerated Women

Danya Ziazadeh, BS '19

The United States prison system is generally built on a male-specific model, leaving many correctional facilities significantly unprepared to meet the unique biological, psychological, and social health needs of women. This has a negative impact on the health of female inmate populations and presents a challenge that must be addressed.

Family walking down the street

Making Family Planning a Household Name: The Legacy of Title X

Chloe Bakst

Title X provides for a diverse array of services, including medical care like contraception, training for nurses and other care providers, and systematic data collection. Despite fifty years of shrinking financial support, can it continue to be successful?

Dog looking up

Can Pets and Pregnancy Go Together?

Mingzhou Fu

Is it wise to take time away from your pet during pregnancy? Some expecting mothers consider sending their pets away because they worry about certain diseases. But if properly handled, your furry family members should be able to hang around.