Research Library

American children today are less active than ever before. On this episode, experts explore the relationship between our urban environments, childhood safety, and well-being.

Baker Institute experts examine the implications of the Alabama Supreme Court's recent ruling that frozen embryos can be considered children under state law. Listen as they explore both the science of human embryo research and the impacts on access to reproductive health care in the United States.

Over half of all Americans live in a state where cannabis is legalized. And yet, the federal government has not reclassified marijuana since 1970. According to the Controlled Substances Act, it is considered a “Schedule 1” substance — the same classification as heroin and crack cocaine with no accepted medical use.

Modern-day stresses affect our mental health — but how are they impacting our brain chemistry? An emerging area of research argues that, if unaddressed, deteriorating brain health could diminish economic productivity, social cohesion, and overall happiness. This episode digs into the idea of “brain capital”: a framework that addresses intersections between brain health and other areas of public policy.

On Dec. 8, 2023, the American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP) and Baker Institute held their first Brain Health Summit. Baker Institute Fellow Harris A. Eyre joined experts from AAGP and beyond for a broad-ranging discussion about reducing dementia risks through modifiable lifestyle factors and how treating mental disorders in the young — alongside stress reduction training — can limit brain health issues in later life.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the academic trajectories of students and exacerbated disparities among our youths. In a new conference report, read how policymakers, educators, parents, and researchers propose to close the COVID-19 achievement gap in schools.

Overview

On June 2, 2023, the Baker Institute Center for Health and Biosciences hosted its second annual Firearm Injury…

Health care costs in the U.S. have climbed dramatically in recent decades. Elevated prescription and premium prices have left more Americans at risk of being unable to afford basic health care services. Our experts discuss key factors leading to medical unaffordability and steps policymakers must take to address the issue.

This week, the White House announced a new initiative to tackle the growing use of fentanyl laced with xylazine — known to many as "tranq." This combination of drugs poses an alarming and significant threat to public health.