On the Heights: March 2025
Departmental news, research highlights, community achievements, and more to help you stay connected with the Michigan Public Health community.
Epidemiology Results
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.
Abnormal menstrual bleeding, a likely culprit in menopausal fatigue, rarely discussed as cause
Q&A with Siobán Harlow
Although midlife women going through menopause often report feeling tired or fatigued, the causes of this fatigue are seldom discussed in the lay or scientific literature. Among other causes, excessive menstrual bleeding may increase the risk of iron deficiency/anemia that contributes to fatigue.
Rising pollen levels pose deadly risk for older adults
As climate change intensifies pollen seasons across the country, new research from the University of Michigan reveals a connection between pollen exposure and death rates among older adults with breathing problems.
Improving global health: A closer look at WASH interventions
Q&A with Andrew Brouwer and Joe Eisenberg
A recent study led by Michigan Public Health researchers offers new insights into why water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions sometimes fall short, and how to approach the developments of more effective public health strategies.
Study of COVID-19 deaths challenges claims, understanding of pandemic-era suicides
Narratives behind numbers point to need for better coordination, support by employers, communities, public health leaders in future crises, especially mental health
University of Michigan researchers dug deeper into the narratives behind the numerical data of COVID-19-era suicides to inform future public health responses.