Research Library

In 1969, nearly 50% of young people walked or biked to school, now that figure has dropped to just over 10%. This alarming decline in physical activity impacts children’s physical health, social health, well-being, and autonomy — presenting an urgent need to increase their physical activity by enhancing active transportation safety for children. This brief from the Child Health Policy Program provides key insights and policy recommendations.

The U.S. faces worsening maternal health disparities and mortality rates due to lack of access and unaddressed systemic barriers to health. In an issue brief, fellow McClain Sampson and co-author Priscilla P. Kennedy summarize the Biden-Harris Maternal Health Blueprint to achieve maternal health equity through a comprehensive approach and also describe a model of care for Medicaid recipients that is aligned with the Blueprint.

A survey of Houston area high school students finds the highest levels of depression occur among older students and transgender youth. This issue brief from the Child Health Policy Program explains how demographic factors affect survey outcomes, noting that school absenteeism and behavioral issues are also associated with students’ poor mental health.

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.

Attempts to undermine church-state separation in Texas reached a crescendo in 2023, writes nonresident scholar David R. Brockman. In this paper, he explores how three high-profile bills introduced during the state’s 88th legislative session threatened to tear down the wall between church and state.

From an early age, children spend many hours interacting with screens: phones, tablets, and laptops. A new policy brief from the Child Health Policy Program explains the importance of unstructured free play for healthy child development and recommends four policy approaches to reduce screen time and ensure children’s well-being in the digital age.

Non-medical drivers of health, also known as social determinants of health, have a significant impact on health outcomes. As fellow Sandra McKay and her co-authors explain, adequate funding to identify and address non-medical drivers — housing and food insecurity, transport issues, and financial strain — can improve patients’ health and health care delivery systems, while also reducing costs.

By respecting, valuing, and nurturing the brain health of asylum seekers and refugees, we can build healthier, more resilient communities.

Can urban design impact our brain health? This issue brief explores how cities can be redesigned to improve our mental well-being and promote healthy aging.

Latinos are the largest and most rapidly expanding minority group in the U.S. Our latest brief describes the overall state of health and wellness among Latino children and the broader community — including indicators of obesity, mental health, and kindergarten readiness.