In the last decade, Americans’ relationship with cannabis has transformed: today, dozens of states have legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use and American farmers can grow hemp on an industrial scale. Meanwhile, shoppers can find cannabidiol (CBD), which is derived from cannabis but does not produce a “high” like marijuana, in everything from oils to vapes, chocolate bars, cosmetics—even dog treats. Some say CBD can relieve stress, pain, anxiety, and more, with no side effects. But the evidence for many of these claims is limited, and state and federal laws around the sale of CBD are still evolving. Drawing on a newly-released poll by POLITICO and the Harvard Chan School, this Forum examined public attitudes toward CBD products and recreational marijuana. Panelists examined how research studies of both recreational and medical marijuana offer insights into the current debate. They also discussed the current state of policy and research regarding recreational marijuana in particular, and consider various solutions that have emerged to understand and regulate these rapidly growing industries.This Forum event was presented jointly with POLITICO on December 3, 2019. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

In the last decade, Americans’ relationship with cannabis has transformed: today, dozens of states have legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use and American farmers can grow hemp on an industrial scale. Meanwhile, shoppers can find cannabidiol (CBD), which is derived from cannabis but does not produce a “high” like marijuana, in everything from oils to vapes, chocolate bars, cosmetics—even dog treats. Some say CBD can relieve stress, pain, anxiety, and more, with no side effects. But the evidence for many of these claims is limited, and state and federal laws around the sale of CBD are still evolving. Drawing on a newly-released poll by POLITICO and the Harvard Chan School, this Forum examined public attitudes toward CBD products and recreational marijuana. Panelists examined how research studies of both recreational and medical marijuana offer insights into the current debate. They also discussed the current state of policy and research regarding recreational marijuana in particular, and consider various solutions that have emerged to understand and regulate these rapidly growing industries. This Forum event was presented jointly with POLITICO on December 3, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Recreational Marijuana and CBD: Public Attitudes, Science, and the Law

Hammered by unprecedented natural disasters, parts of the United States have coped with raging wildfires, catastrophic hurricanes, dangerous heat levels, blizzards and floods. In addition, climate change has introduced new risks and exacerbated existing problems, according to the National Climate Assessment. This Forum event convened a dynamic panel of former governors, who will share their unique insights into the challenges of leadership and natural disasters. What does it take to prepare, respond and rebuild? What roles do the public, local and state officials and emergency responders play? What is the intersection between economies and disasters? And what climate change considerations need to be understood?  This Forum event was presented jointly with Reuters on November 14, 2019.Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

Hammered by unprecedented natural disasters, parts of the United States have coped with raging wildfires, catastrophic hurricanes, dangerous heat levels, blizzards and floods. In addition, climate change has introduced new risks and exacerbated existing problems, according to the National Climate Assessment. This Forum event convened a dynamic panel of former governors, who will share their unique insights into the challenges of leadership and natural disasters. What does it take to prepare, respond and rebuild? What roles do the public, local and state officials and emergency responders play? What is the intersection between economies and disasters? And what climate change considerations need to be understood? This Forum event was presented jointly with Reuters on November 14, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Unprecedented Natural Disasters in a Time of Climate Change: A Governors Roundtable

Antibiotics are a pillar of modern medicine. They have saved millions of lives. But as the use of antibiotics has increased, so has the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant microbes that have adapted to survive most, or all, of today’s antibiotics. The CDC reports that two million people are infected with drug-resistant bacteria every year in the United States, and the Review on Antimicrobial Resistance estimated that, around the world, 700,000 people die of such infections annually. That number stands to increase: the Review predicts that, by 2050, drug resistance could be responsible for 10 million deaths a year. And while these numbers are dominated by bacterial infections, fungal infections like Candida auris are also a threat, especially to vulnerable patients in hospitals and nursing homes. Despite drug resistance growing, the development of new antibiotics has slowed. How can policymakers help accelerate the pace of new drug development, and how can all of us—doctors, hospitals, and patients, as well as the agricultural sector—be better stewards of existing drugs? Forum panelists examined the scope of this looming crisis and look at how changes in policy and practice can help us stay one step ahead of these superbugs.Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

Antibiotics are a pillar of modern medicine. They have saved millions of lives. But as the use of antibiotics has increased, so has the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant microbes that have adapted to survive most, or all, of today’s antibiotics. The CDC reports that two million people are infected with drug-resistant bacteria every year in the United States, and the Review on Antimicrobial Resistance estimated that, around the world, 700,000 people die of such infections annually. That number stands to increase: the Review predicts that, by 2050, drug resistance could be responsible for 10 million deaths a year. And while these numbers are dominated by bacterial infections, fungal infections like Candida auris are also a threat, especially to vulnerable patients in hospitals and nursing homes. Despite drug resistance growing, the development of new antibiotics has slowed. How can policymakers help accelerate the pace of new drug development, and how can all of us—doctors, hospitals, and patients, as well as the agricultural sector—be better stewards of existing drugs? Forum panelists examined the scope of this looming crisis and look at how changes in policy and practice can help us stay one step ahead of these superbugs. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Drug-Resistant Infections: Confronting an Escalating Crisis

Color

Amid the bustle on U.S. college campuses, a growing challenge is causing concern. Many college students of color report mental health issues–including depression, anxiety and, among some groups, increased risk for suicide–that are not well understood or effectively addressed. According to surveys conducted by Harris Poll, students of color feel both more isolated and more overwhelmed than their white classmates. At the same time, they are less likely to seek counseling services on campus. Bringing together experts with diverse experiences and perspectives, this Forum explored how colleges can better support the social, emotional and mental health needs of students of color, particularly during the critical transition to college. Panelists emphasized evidence-based steps and policies that can help cultivate a positive and healthy experience for college students of color.This Forum event was presented in partnership with The Steve Fund and jointly with HuffPost on September 18, 2019. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

Amid the bustle on U.S. college campuses, a growing challenge is causing concern. Many college students of color report mental health issues–including depression, anxiety and, among some groups, increased risk for suicide–that are not well understood or effectively addressed. According to surveys conducted by Harris Poll, students of color feel both more isolated and more overwhelmed than their white classmates. At the same time, they are less likely to seek counseling services on campus. Bringing together experts with diverse experiences and perspectives, this Forum explored how colleges can better support the social, emotional and mental health needs of students of color, particularly during the critical transition to college. Panelists emphasized evidence-based steps and policies that can help cultivate a positive and healthy experience for college students of color. This Forum event was presented in partnership with The Steve Fund and jointly with HuffPost on September 18, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Mental Health and Wellness for Students of Color: Transitioning to College

The U.S. officially eliminated measles nearly 20 years ago. Yet, this year, more than 1,100 cases have been reported, despite being preventable by vaccine. The CDC says the majority of cases are among those who were not vaccinated.This Forum looked at the drivers of the 2019 outbreaks and, more generally, the challenges of vaccine acceptance. Why do some parents delay or decline vaccinating their children? How might their concerns be addressed? What about exemptions? Why does the global picture matter? And what can be done once an outbreak begins? New polling data framed this discussion, providing a uniquely current picture of vaccine acceptance in the U.S.Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with PRI's The World &amp; WGBH on September 12, 2019.Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

The U.S. officially eliminated measles nearly 20 years ago. Yet, this year, more than 1,100 cases have been reported, despite being preventable by vaccine. The CDC says the majority of cases are among those who were not vaccinated. This Forum looked at the drivers of the 2019 outbreaks and, more generally, the challenges of vaccine acceptance. Why do some parents delay or decline vaccinating their children? How might their concerns be addressed? What about exemptions? Why does the global picture matter? And what can be done once an outbreak begins? New polling data framed this discussion, providing a uniquely current picture of vaccine acceptance in the U.S. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with PRI's The World &amp; WGBH on September 12, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

The Measles Outbreak: Why Vaccines Matter

Maternal mortality dropped by almost half over the last 25 years around the world. However, in startling contrast, deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth doubled in the United States between 2000 and 2014, putting the nation second-to-last in maternal mortality among countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Further, pernicious racial disparities mean that black women in the United States face a deeply distressing three- to four-times higher risk of pregnancy-related deaths. What factors are driving these increases and disparities? What changes will narrow the survival gap between white and black women? How can health care systems more effectively prevent complications and poor outcomes? And how can mothers themselves and their communities be agents for change for a more equitable and safe delivery of the next generation? Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with PRI's The World &amp; WGBH on March 4, 2019. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

Maternal mortality dropped by almost half over the last 25 years around the world. However, in startling contrast, deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth doubled in the United States between 2000 and 2014, putting the nation second-to-last in maternal mortality among countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Further, pernicious racial disparities mean that black women in the United States face a deeply distressing three- to four-times higher risk of pregnancy-related deaths. What factors are driving these increases and disparities? What changes will narrow the survival gap between white and black women? How can health care systems more effectively prevent complications and poor outcomes? And how can mothers themselves and their communities be agents for change for a more equitable and safe delivery of the next generation? Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with PRI's The World &amp; WGBH on March 4, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Deaths From Pregnancy and Childbirth: Why Are More U.S. Mothers Dying and What Can Be Done?

In 2017, reports of hate crimes in the United States increased for the third consecutive year, according to the FBI. In addition to physical acts, such actions and other messages of racism, intolerance and extremism potentially impact large numbers of people online. In this Forum, experts tackled the painful and distressing spread of hate and racism. What social, political and psychological forces drive prejudice? How do modern media and the Internet enable and amplify hateful and racist messages? What are the impacts on the health and cohesion of society — and what can be done? This Forum event was presented jointly with PRI’s The World &amp; WGBH on February 13, 2019. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

In 2017, reports of hate crimes in the United States increased for the third consecutive year, according to the FBI. In addition to physical acts, such actions and other messages of racism, intolerance and extremism potentially impact large numbers of people online. In this Forum, experts tackled the painful and distressing spread of hate and racism. What social, political and psychological forces drive prejudice? How do modern media and the Internet enable and amplify hateful and racist messages? What are the impacts on the health and cohesion of society — and what can be done? This Forum event was presented jointly with PRI’s The World &amp; WGBH on February 13, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

The Spread of Hate and Racism: Confronting a Growing Public Crisis

Rare cancers present doctors, researchers, and patients with a unique set of challenges. Rare cancers often are diagnosed at later stages. Patients typically have limited treatment options, in part because the small number of diagnoses makes gold-standard clinical trials difficult. The picture is further complicated by increasingly expensive cancer drug costs. Yet, promises of emerging technologies, improved diagnostics, targeted therapies and pharmaceutical options provide hope. Calls for new ways to study rare cancers are being made so that patients can get access to better treatments more quickly. In this Forum, panelists discussed how advances in cancer immunology, innovative trial designs, and international data sharing can create new hope for patients with rare cancers. Supported by The Economist Group, this Forum event was presented on February 1, 2019. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

Rare cancers present doctors, researchers, and patients with a unique set of challenges. Rare cancers often are diagnosed at later stages. Patients typically have limited treatment options, in part because the small number of diagnoses makes gold-standard clinical trials difficult. The picture is further complicated by increasingly expensive cancer drug costs. Yet, promises of emerging technologies, improved diagnostics, targeted therapies and pharmaceutical options provide hope. Calls for new ways to study rare cancers are being made so that patients can get access to better treatments more quickly. In this Forum, panelists discussed how advances in cancer immunology, innovative trial designs, and international data sharing can create new hope for patients with rare cancers. Supported by The Economist Group, this Forum event was presented on February 1, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Rare Cancers: Charting a Faster Route to Treatment

In this uniquely insightful Forum, experts examined key health and education policies — and their broad implications — that are likely to be enacted by the new Congress. The panelists discussed the current climate, including the government shutdown. For background, the discussion drew on a newly-released poll by POLITICO and the Harvard Chan School. This Forum event was presented jointly with POLITICO LLC on January 23, 2019. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

In this uniquely insightful Forum, experts examined key health and education policies — and their broad implications — that are likely to be enacted by the new Congress. The panelists discussed the current climate, including the government shutdown. For background, the discussion drew on a newly-released poll by POLITICO and the Harvard Chan School. This Forum event was presented jointly with POLITICO LLC on January 23, 2019. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

The New Congress: What’s Next on Crucial Health and Education Issues?

What is it like to be seriously ill in America today? From heavy financial burdens — despite insurance —  to varied hospital experiences, to impacts on caregivers, people with serious illnesses shared their experiences through a recent poll by the New York Times, the Commonwealth Fund, and the Harvard Chan School. The findings carry significant implications for national debates on basic health insurance requirements and on the reach of programs such as Medicare. In this Forum, a panel of experts unpacked the poll findings, as well as explored practical ways in which health systems can change to help the most ill Americans. This Harvard event was presented in collaboration with The Commonwealth Fund on December 5, 2018. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

What is it like to be seriously ill in America today? From heavy financial burdens — despite insurance — to varied hospital experiences, to impacts on caregivers, people with serious illnesses shared their experiences through a recent poll by the New York Times, the Commonwealth Fund, and the Harvard Chan School. The findings carry significant implications for national debates on basic health insurance requirements and on the reach of programs such as Medicare. In this Forum, a panel of experts unpacked the poll findings, as well as explored practical ways in which health systems can change to help the most ill Americans. This Harvard event was presented in collaboration with The Commonwealth Fund on December 5, 2018. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

Being Seriously Ill in the U.S.: Financial and Healthcare Impacts

An exchange focused on health issues and controversies of current concern to decision-makers around the world.

The Forum at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Mental health issues are alarmingly on the rise among college students, and a serious gap exists in campus services to help them. What can be done to meet this growing need, spurred by issues of anxiety and depression, that has been described as sudden and dramatic by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health? In a spring 2017 survey by the American College Health Association, 39 percent of college students reported feeling so depressed that they were having trouble functioning, and 61 percent said that they had overwhelming anxiety in the previous 12 months. This Forum  served as a call to action, asking how to develop a campus culture that prioritizes the prevention of mental health issues and the destigmatization of existing conditions. An expert panel featured leaders from academia, mental health advocacy and psychology, who spoke from a public health and health care delivery perspective. How do we support students in need; remove barriers, particularly for already marginalized students; boost communication; and promote wellness drivers, such as improved sleep, nutrition, exercise and social connectedness? And how do we gather the much-needed evidence for public health policies? Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with HuffPost on Tuesday, April 17, 2018.

Mental health issues are alarmingly on the rise among college students, and a serious gap exists in campus services to help them. What can be done to meet this growing need, spurred by issues of anxiety and depression, that has been described as sudden and dramatic by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health? In a spring 2017 survey by the American College Health Association, 39 percent of college students reported feeling so depressed that they were having trouble functioning, and 61 percent said that they had overwhelming anxiety in the previous 12 months. This Forum served as a call to action, asking how to develop a campus culture that prioritizes the prevention of mental health issues and the destigmatization of existing conditions. An expert panel featured leaders from academia, mental health advocacy and psychology, who spoke from a public health and health care delivery perspective. How do we support students in need; remove barriers, particularly for already marginalized students; boost communication; and promote wellness drivers, such as improved sleep, nutrition, exercise and social connectedness? And how do we gather the much-needed evidence for public health policies? Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with HuffPost on Tuesday, April 17, 2018.

College Students and Mental Health: Confronting an Emerging Crisis

California, Massachusetts, Maine, and Nevada became the latest states to legalize recreational marijuana, bringing to 28 the number of states that have okayed the drug for medicinal use, recreational use, or both. Even more states have rules that allow certain kinds of cannabis extracts to be used for medical purposes. At the same time that state legalization is increasing, the Trump administration is signaling that it may ramp up enforcement of federal drug laws, even when they come into conflict with state laws allowing recreational marijuana use. State and local governments may find themselves on uncertain legal ground. Meanwhile, policymakers navigating this new landscape are also working largely without the benefit of a solid foundation of scientific evidence on the drug’s risks and benefits. In fact, a new National Academy of Medicine report describes notable gaps in scientific data on the short- and long-term health effects of marijuana. What do we know about the health impacts of marijuana, and what do we still need to learn? This Forum brought together researchers studying marijuana’s health impacts with policymakers who are working to implement new laws in ways that will benefit and protect public health. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with The Huffington Post on Friday, March 24, 2017. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

California, Massachusetts, Maine, and Nevada became the latest states to legalize recreational marijuana, bringing to 28 the number of states that have okayed the drug for medicinal use, recreational use, or both. Even more states have rules that allow certain kinds of cannabis extracts to be used for medical purposes. At the same time that state legalization is increasing, the Trump administration is signaling that it may ramp up enforcement of federal drug laws, even when they come into conflict with state laws allowing recreational marijuana use. State and local governments may find themselves on uncertain legal ground. Meanwhile, policymakers navigating this new landscape are also working largely without the benefit of a solid foundation of scientific evidence on the drug’s risks and benefits. In fact, a new National Academy of Medicine report describes notable gaps in scientific data on the short- and long-term health effects of marijuana. What do we know about the health impacts of marijuana, and what do we still need to learn? This Forum brought together researchers studying marijuana’s health impacts with policymakers who are working to implement new laws in ways that will benefit and protect public health. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with The Huffington Post on Friday, March 24, 2017. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Marijuana: The Latest Scientific Findings and Legalization

LEAD

On the whole, American drinking water is safe. However, more than a year after toxic lead levels forced a federal state of emergency in Flint, MI, 63 percent of Americans report that they worry a great deal about polluted drinking water. This statistic comes from a new Gallup poll indicating that water pollution ranks the highest of six environmental concerns among respondents. While pipes in Flint are expected to be replaced with the help of a $97 million settlement, there are other cities with histories of unsafe lead levels — or other toxins — in drinking water. These contaminants can threaten health, particularly among children. This Forum grappled with safekeeping American drinking water supplies. Does the drinking water infrastructure need replacement? How would such an effort look? Do public alert systems help? What about other potential lead exposure sources? What is the role of regulation in a time of proposed deep cuts to EPA funding? What does the public need to know? This timely discussion was held in advance of Earth Day. Presented April 20, 2017, jointly with The Huffington Post. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

On the whole, American drinking water is safe. However, more than a year after toxic lead levels forced a federal state of emergency in Flint, MI, 63 percent of Americans report that they worry a great deal about polluted drinking water. This statistic comes from a new Gallup poll indicating that water pollution ranks the highest of six environmental concerns among respondents. While pipes in Flint are expected to be replaced with the help of a $97 million settlement, there are other cities with histories of unsafe lead levels — or other toxins — in drinking water. These contaminants can threaten health, particularly among children. This Forum grappled with safekeeping American drinking water supplies. Does the drinking water infrastructure need replacement? How would such an effort look? Do public alert systems help? What about other potential lead exposure sources? What is the role of regulation in a time of proposed deep cuts to EPA funding? What does the public need to know? This timely discussion was held in advance of Earth Day. Presented April 20, 2017, jointly with The Huffington Post. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Lead Contamination Beyond Flint: Drinking Water and Children's Health

By 2050, a projected 9.7 billion people will inhabit the planet. How will we produce enough nutritious food to support this burgeoning population and ensure access to food resources, particularly as climate change stresses the environment? This Forum explored innovative methods and systems for producing food, as well as new types of products and underutilized sources. The panelists talked about emerging technologies, including advances in genomics and aeroponics, to grow food. They also discussed ways to sustain at-risk food resources made vulnerable from climate change, and the impacts for populations in developing countries. Part of The Andelot Series on Current Science Controversies, this event was presented jointly with PRI's The World and WGBH on December 13, 2016. Watch the entire series from The Forum at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health at www.ForumHSPH.org.

By 2050, a projected 9.7 billion people will inhabit the planet. How will we produce enough nutritious food to support this burgeoning population and ensure access to food resources, particularly as climate change stresses the environment? This Forum explored innovative methods and systems for producing food, as well as new types of products and underutilized sources. The panelists talked about emerging technologies, including advances in genomics and aeroponics, to grow food. They also discussed ways to sustain at-risk food resources made vulnerable from climate change, and the impacts for populations in developing countries. Part of The Andelot Series on Current Science Controversies, this event was presented jointly with PRI's The World and WGBH on December 13, 2016. Watch the entire series from The Forum at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health at <a href="http://www.ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.ForumHSPH.org</a>.

The Future of Food: Feeding the Planet During Climate Change

Despite decades of research and relentless messaging about the importance of diet and exercise, type 2 diabetes remains a major threat to the lives of millions of Americans. As new diagnoses in some populations plateau, rates in others groups, including African Americans and Latinos, are increasing. Why does this largely preventable and multifactorial condition persist? What are the latest treatments available for individuals living with diabetes? And what technological and medical breakthroughs lie on the horizon? In this Forum — held on World Diabetes Day — experts in medical innovation, food policy, diabetes and obesity research, and community outreach assessed the promise of new approaches to diabetes, as well as explored remaining challenges. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with HuffPost on Tuesday, November 14, 2017.

Despite decades of research and relentless messaging about the importance of diet and exercise, type 2 diabetes remains a major threat to the lives of millions of Americans. As new diagnoses in some populations plateau, rates in others groups, including African Americans and Latinos, are increasing. Why does this largely preventable and multifactorial condition persist? What are the latest treatments available for individuals living with diabetes? And what technological and medical breakthroughs lie on the horizon? In this Forum — held on World Diabetes Day — experts in medical innovation, food policy, diabetes and obesity research, and community outreach assessed the promise of new approaches to diabetes, as well as explored remaining challenges. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with HuffPost on Tuesday, November 14, 2017.

The Diabetes Epidemic: The Latest on Treatment and Prevention

According to the CDC, nearly 29 million U.S. women and 16 million U.S. men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime. Most of those experiences occur before the age of twenty-five. The evidence is clear that domestic violence takes a physical and emotional toll on individuals, families and communities. Those exposed both directly and indirectly are at a greater risk of mental health disorders, infectious and chronic diseases and death. And the global annual cost in lost productivity, health care, and law enforcement is estimated to be in the trillions. This Forum event, held during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, explored the many dimensions of domestic violence, the need for evidence-based prevention strategies and the role that the public and private sectors need to play to shift the conversation from intervention to preventive action. The panel included thought leaders and experts in public health and research coming together to advance the prevention of domestic violence. This event was Presented jointly with The Huffington Post on October 24, 2016. Watch the entire series from The Forum at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health at www.ForumHSPH.org.

According to the CDC, nearly 29 million U.S. women and 16 million U.S. men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime. Most of those experiences occur before the age of twenty-five. The evidence is clear that domestic violence takes a physical and emotional toll on individuals, families and communities. Those exposed both directly and indirectly are at a greater risk of mental health disorders, infectious and chronic diseases and death. And the global annual cost in lost productivity, health care, and law enforcement is estimated to be in the trillions. This Forum event, held during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, explored the many dimensions of domestic violence, the need for evidence-based prevention strategies and the role that the public and private sectors need to play to shift the conversation from intervention to preventive action. The panel included thought leaders and experts in public health and research coming together to advance the prevention of domestic violence. This event was Presented jointly with The Huffington Post on October 24, 2016. Watch the entire series from The Forum at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health at <a href="http://www.ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.ForumHSPH.org</a>.

The Domestic Violence Crisis: Mobilizing the Public and Private Sectors

President Trump recently described a plan to tackle the opioid abuse crisis that includes tougher sentencing on dealers and expanding access to treatment. The President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis cites the need to move ahead quickly with treatment alternatives for those addicted to opioids. Yet, recent public surveys show that Americans are confused about opioid-treatment programs, with only about half believing there is an effective, long-term addiction treatment. There are programs offered for the treatment of opioid addiction, including medicated–assisted treatment, drug rehabilitation programs, addiction support groups, and counseling. This Forum – featuring the unique perspectives of former governors and the 21st United States Secretary of Health and Human Services — will examine the state government’s role in current and future approaches to treatment. These approaches may include educating the public about these alternatives, paying for them, regulating their performance and availability, training and certifying health professionals in their use, and developing guidelines for certification of these treatments. This is the second in a series of Governors Roundtables. Part of The Andelot Series on Current Science Controversies, this Forum event was presented jointly with Reuters on Thursday, April 12, 2018. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

President Trump recently described a plan to tackle the opioid abuse crisis that includes tougher sentencing on dealers and expanding access to treatment. The President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis cites the need to move ahead quickly with treatment alternatives for those addicted to opioids. Yet, recent public surveys show that Americans are confused about opioid-treatment programs, with only about half believing there is an effective, long-term addiction treatment. There are programs offered for the treatment of opioid addiction, including medicated–assisted treatment, drug rehabilitation programs, addiction support groups, and counseling. This Forum – featuring the unique perspectives of former governors and the 21st United States Secretary of Health and Human Services — will examine the state government’s role in current and future approaches to treatment. These approaches may include educating the public about these alternatives, paying for them, regulating their performance and availability, training and certifying health professionals in their use, and developing guidelines for certification of these treatments. This is the second in a series of Governors Roundtables. Part of The Andelot Series on Current Science Controversies, this Forum event was presented jointly with Reuters on Thursday, April 12, 2018. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Opioids and Addiction: A Governors Roundtable on State Approaches to Treatment

How can common chemicals affect our health? This Forum at HSPH was presented jointly with The Huffington Post. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

How can common chemicals affect our health? This Forum at HSPH was presented jointly with The Huffington Post. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Hormone-Altering Chemicals: Fertility and Health Implications

Will the next great medical insight come from a clinical trial, a laboratory study — or a database search? Today, health systems and insurers have access to a mountain of data about millions of Americans: what medications they take, their health history, even, in some cases, their genetics—plus an emerging body of mobile health data. Using “big data” techniques, doctors and researchers are already mining this data to deliver better care and to gain insights into the kind of hyper-specific questions that clinical trials and observational studies struggle to answer. The approach promises major, rapid-fire, highly-personalized discoveries. At the same time, with the specter of cyberattacks and hacks looming, the need for rugged privacy protection has never been greater. In this Forum, experts in healthcare data and privacy will discuss the potential for future discovery, practical steps to enable progress, and how information can be kept secure. Part of the The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with HuffPost on Tuesday, December 5, 2017. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

Will the next great medical insight come from a clinical trial, a laboratory study — or a database search? Today, health systems and insurers have access to a mountain of data about millions of Americans: what medications they take, their health history, even, in some cases, their genetics—plus an emerging body of mobile health data. Using “big data” techniques, doctors and researchers are already mining this data to deliver better care and to gain insights into the kind of hyper-specific questions that clinical trials and observational studies struggle to answer. The approach promises major, rapid-fire, highly-personalized discoveries. At the same time, with the specter of cyberattacks and hacks looming, the need for rugged privacy protection has never been greater. In this Forum, experts in healthcare data and privacy will discuss the potential for future discovery, practical steps to enable progress, and how information can be kept secure. Part of the The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with HuffPost on Tuesday, December 5, 2017. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

The Health Data Revolution: Improving Outcomes, Protecting Privacy

More than half of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer Americans report that they have experienced violence, threats or harassment because of their sexuality or gender identity. Nearly one in five LGBTQ people has avoided seeking medical care for fear of discrimination. In this Forum, experts in LGBTQ health explored health disparities and discrimination that impact the LGBTQ community. Drawing from a recent poll by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, our panel looked at the impact of these experiences on physical and mental well-being — and what can be done to help. This Forum event was presented jointly with NPR on March 21, 2018. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

More than half of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer Americans report that they have experienced violence, threats or harassment because of their sexuality or gender identity. Nearly one in five LGBTQ people has avoided seeking medical care for fear of discrimination. In this Forum, experts in LGBTQ health explored health disparities and discrimination that impact the LGBTQ community. Drawing from a recent poll by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, our panel looked at the impact of these experiences on physical and mental well-being — and what can be done to help. This Forum event was presented jointly with NPR on March 21, 2018. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Health in the LGBTQ Community: Improving Care and Confronting Discrimination

How do African Americans experience discrimination in daily life? A new poll by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health illuminates reports from African Americans who share their personal experiences with discrimination. With unprecedented documentation, the poll covers a range of areas — from police interaction, to job applications, to health care, to racial slurs. This Forum explored the poll results and their implications for a healthier, more equitable, and just society. This poll is the first among a series of reports that surveyed additional groups, including Latinos, Asian Americans, Native Americans, men, women, and LGBTQ adults, on their experiences with discrimination. This Forum event was presented October 24, 2017, in collaboration with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and NPR.

How do African Americans experience discrimination in daily life? A new poll by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health illuminates reports from African Americans who share their personal experiences with discrimination. With unprecedented documentation, the poll covers a range of areas — from police interaction, to job applications, to health care, to racial slurs. This Forum explored the poll results and their implications for a healthier, more equitable, and just society. This poll is the first among a series of reports that surveyed additional groups, including Latinos, Asian Americans, Native Americans, men, women, and LGBTQ adults, on their experiences with discrimination. This Forum event was presented October 24, 2017, in collaboration with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and NPR.

Discrimination in America: African American Experiences

Americans pay more money – sometimes much more money – for prescriptions than consumers in many other wealthy countries. Why? The drivers are many and complicated. Pharmaceutical companies, employers, health care providers, patients, lawmakers, and pharmacy benefit managers all play a role. Calls to make prescriptions more affordable have prompted new efforts, including at the federal level. Last May, for example, President Trump introduced a plan intended to help reduce drug prices. This Forum event aimed to demystify the prescription drug pricing process. Experts weighed issues such as regulation, price negotiation and competitive market pressures, ultimately asking why prescription costs matter for public health. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with Reuters on September 26, 2018.

Americans pay more money – sometimes much more money – for prescriptions than consumers in many other wealthy countries. Why? The drivers are many and complicated. Pharmaceutical companies, employers, health care providers, patients, lawmakers, and pharmacy benefit managers all play a role. Calls to make prescriptions more affordable have prompted new efforts, including at the federal level. Last May, for example, President Trump introduced a plan intended to help reduce drug prices. This Forum event aimed to demystify the prescription drug pricing process. Experts weighed issues such as regulation, price negotiation and competitive market pressures, ultimately asking why prescription costs matter for public health. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with Reuters on September 26, 2018.

U.S. Drug Prices: Why Are They So High?

What do rural Americans say are the biggest problems in their local communities? A new poll finds that drug/opioid abuse and economic concerns are the top challenges. When it comes to drug addiction and abuse, a majority of rural Americans say opioid addiction is a serious problem in their community. On economic issues, rural Americans largely hold negative views of their local economy, but nearly one-third have seen economic progress in recent years. What may help? A majority of rural Americans believe outside help will be necessary to solve major community problems in the future, and many believe government will play an important role. Convened shortly before National Rural Health Day and after the nation’s midterm elections, a panel of experts explored the public health and policy implications of these findings within the broader context of life in rural America. This Forum event was presented jointly with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and NPR on November 9, 2018. Watch the entire series: https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/

What do rural Americans say are the biggest problems in their local communities? A new poll finds that drug/opioid abuse and economic concerns are the top challenges. When it comes to drug addiction and abuse, a majority of rural Americans say opioid addiction is a serious problem in their community. On economic issues, rural Americans largely hold negative views of their local economy, but nearly one-third have seen economic progress in recent years. What may help? A majority of rural Americans believe outside help will be necessary to solve major community problems in the future, and many believe government will play an important role. Convened shortly before National Rural Health Day and after the nation’s midterm elections, a panel of experts explored the public health and policy implications of these findings within the broader context of life in rural America. This Forum event was presented jointly with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and NPR on November 9, 2018. Watch the entire series: <a href="https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/</a>

The Health and Economic Concerns of Rural Americans

Six months after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, a panel of experts assessed persistent public health challenges on the island and the outlook for long-term recovery. Power restoration, health care coordination, and medical services delivery on the island are just some of the pressing issues the panelists explored. They discussed the potential threats of extreme hurricanes more broadly, noting that 2017 was one of the most destructive seasons on record. What can be done to better prepare and respond to killer storms, and to build resiliency to combat such disasters? How can the public and private sectors work together? And what have we learned generally from past hurricanes - and specifically from ongoing efforts in Puerto Rico - to meet the many challenges ahead? This Forum event was presented jointly with PRI's The World &amp; WGBH on Friday, March 9, 2018. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

Six months after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, a panel of experts assessed persistent public health challenges on the island and the outlook for long-term recovery. Power restoration, health care coordination, and medical services delivery on the island are just some of the pressing issues the panelists explored. They discussed the potential threats of extreme hurricanes more broadly, noting that 2017 was one of the most destructive seasons on record. What can be done to better prepare and respond to killer storms, and to build resiliency to combat such disasters? How can the public and private sectors work together? And what have we learned generally from past hurricanes - and specifically from ongoing efforts in Puerto Rico - to meet the many challenges ahead? This Forum event was presented jointly with PRI's The World &amp; WGBH on Friday, March 9, 2018. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Extreme Hurricanes: The Challenges for Puerto Rico and Beyond

“Lose belly fat.” “Build muscle.” “Lower your cholesterol.” “Improve your sex drive.” Browse the shelves of any supermarket or pharmacy, and you will find dietary supplements that promise to do all this, and more. Supplements are a multi-billion-dollar business, and today more than half of American adults take them, many at the advice of their doctors. But dietary supplements can have real risks. They are not required by federal law to be proven safe “to the FDA’s satisfaction” before hitting the market, raising concern among critics about a perceived lack of safety oversight and consumer education. Using the latest science as the basis for discussion, Forum experts examined the risks and benefits of supplements. How effective are they? What about dosages — or interactions with prescription medications? Should supplements be subject to more stringent rules and tests? What role should doctors, pharmacists, and drugstores have in helping consumers make safe, educated choices about supplements? This panel attempted to help sort the facts about supplements and health. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with PRI’s The World &amp; WGBH on May 11, 2017. Watch the entire series at ForumHSPH.org.

“Lose belly fat.” “Build muscle.” “Lower your cholesterol.” “Improve your sex drive.” Browse the shelves of any supermarket or pharmacy, and you will find dietary supplements that promise to do all this, and more. Supplements are a multi-billion-dollar business, and today more than half of American adults take them, many at the advice of their doctors. But dietary supplements can have real risks. They are not required by federal law to be proven safe “to the FDA’s satisfaction” before hitting the market, raising concern among critics about a perceived lack of safety oversight and consumer education. Using the latest science as the basis for discussion, Forum experts examined the risks and benefits of supplements. How effective are they? What about dosages — or interactions with prescription medications? Should supplements be subject to more stringent rules and tests? What role should doctors, pharmacists, and drugstores have in helping consumers make safe, educated choices about supplements? This panel attempted to help sort the facts about supplements and health. Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with PRI’s The World &amp; WGBH on May 11, 2017. Watch the entire series at <a href="http://ForumHSPH.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ForumHSPH.org</a>.

Supplements and Health: Sorting the Facts

Cancer. Alzheimer’s. Precision medicine. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The opioid crisis. These are all areas that stand to benefit from boosted federal funding. On the other hand, other areas may take a hit — immunizations, preparedness for outbreaks and epidemics, and chronic disease prevention programs to name a few. And where does the support for basic research that drives innovation fit in? In this Forum, a panel of experts explored the promises for advancing cutting-edge treatments and research to prevent diseases that affect millions – while looking at the implications for areas where funding may be reduced. What lies ahead in the landscape for the future of medical research? Presented jointly with NBC News Digital, and part of The Andelot Series on Current Science Controversies, this Forum event took place Monday, November 6, 2017.

Cancer. Alzheimer’s. Precision medicine. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The opioid crisis. These are all areas that stand to benefit from boosted federal funding. On the other hand, other areas may take a hit — immunizations, preparedness for outbreaks and epidemics, and chronic disease prevention programs to name a few. And where does the support for basic research that drives innovation fit in? In this Forum, a panel of experts explored the promises for advancing cutting-edge treatments and research to prevent diseases that affect millions – while looking at the implications for areas where funding may be reduced. What lies ahead in the landscape for the future of medical research? Presented jointly with NBC News Digital, and part of The Andelot Series on Current Science Controversies, this Forum event took place Monday, November 6, 2017.

Breakthroughs in Disease Treatment: The Landscape Moving Forward

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