health related research topics for students

151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024]

The important area of public health research is essential to forming laws, influencing medical procedures, and eventually enhancing community well-being. As we delve into the vast landscape of public health research topics, it’s essential to understand the profound impact they have on society.

This blog aims to provide a comprehensive guide to selecting and understanding the diverse array of public health research topics.

Overview of Public Health Research Topics

Table of Contents

Public health research encompasses a wide range of subjects, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field. From epidemiology and health policy to environmental health and infectious diseases, researchers navigate through various dimensions to address complex health challenges.

Each category holds its own significance, contributing to the overall understanding of public health dynamics.

Key Considerations in Selecting Public Health Research Topics

Current Relevance: Assess the timeliness of potential topics by considering recent health trends, emerging issues, and societal concerns.
Impact on Public Health: Evaluate the potential impact of the research on improving health outcomes, addressing disparities, or influencing policy and interventions.
Feasibility and Resources: Gauge the practicality of conducting research on a particular topic, considering available resources, data accessibility, and research infrastructure.
Ethical Considerations: Scrutinize the ethical implications of the research, ensuring it aligns with ethical standards and guidelines, especially when dealing with vulnerable populations or sensitive topics.

Top 151+ Public Health Research Topics

Epidemiology.

The Impact of Social Determinants on Disease Outcomes
Patterns and Trends in Emerging Infectious Diseases
Investigating Health Disparities among Different Ethnic Groups
Childhood Obesity and its Long-Term Health Consequences
Assessing the Effectiveness of Contact Tracing in Disease Control

Health Policy

Universal Healthcare: Comparative Analysis of Global Models
The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Healthcare Access
Evaluating Mental Health Policies and Their Impact on Communities
Assessing the Impact of Affordable Care Act on Public Health
Vaccine Policies and Public Perception: A Comprehensive Study

Environmental Health

Climate Change and Health: Adapting to the Challenges
Air Quality and Respiratory Health in Urban Environments
Waterborne Diseases and Strategies for Safe Water Supply
Occupational Health Hazards: A Comprehensive Workplace Analysis
The Impact of Green Spaces on Mental Health in Urban Areas

Infectious Diseases

Antimicrobial Resistance: Strategies for Mitigation
Vaccination Strategies and Herd Immunity
Global Health Security: Preparedness for Pandemics
The Impact of Vector-Borne Diseases on Public Health
Emerging Trends in Antibiotic-Resistant Infections

Chronic Diseases

Lifestyle Interventions for Preventing Cardiovascular Diseases
Genetic Factors in the Development of Cancer: A Comprehensive Study
Aging and Health: Addressing the Healthcare Needs of the Elderly
Diabetes Prevention Programs: Efficacy and Implementation
Mental Health in Chronic Disease Patients: Bridging the Gap

Maternal and Child Health

Maternal Mortality: Understanding Causes and Prevention
The Impact of Breastfeeding on Infant Health and Development
Childhood Immunization: Barriers and Strategies for Improvement
Teenage Pregnancy and Its Long-Term Health Consequences
Mental Health Support for Postpartum Women: Current Gaps and Solutions

Health Behavior and Promotion

Smoking Cessation Programs: Effectiveness and Challenges
Physical Activity Promotion in Schools: Strategies for Success
Nutrition Education and Its Impact on Healthy Eating Habits
Mental Health Awareness Campaigns: Assessing Public Perceptions
The Role of Social Media in Health Promotion

Global Health

Assessing the Impact of International Aid on Global Health
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Programs in Developing Countries
The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Global Health
Communicable Disease Control in Refugee Populations
Global Access to Essential Medicines: Challenges and Solutions

Community Health

Community-Based Participatory Research: Best Practices and Challenges
The Impact of Community Health Workers on Health Outcomes
Health Literacy and its Relationship to Health Disparities
Assessing the Effectiveness of Mobile Health (mHealth) Interventions
Community Resilience in the Face of Public Health Crises

Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety

Hospital-Acquired Infections: Strategies for Prevention
Patient Safety Culture in Healthcare Organizations
Quality Improvement Initiatives in Primary Care Settings
Healthcare Accreditation: Impact on Patient Outcomes
Implementing Electronic Health Records: Challenges and Benefits

Mental Health

Stigma Reduction Programs for Mental Health Disorders
Integrating Mental Health into Primary Care Settings
The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health: Long-Term Implications
Mental Health in the Workplace: Strategies for Employee Well-being
Suicide Prevention Programs: Effectiveness and Outreach

Health Disparities

Racial Disparities in Healthcare: Addressing Systemic Inequities
LGBTQ+ Health Disparities and Inclusive Healthcare Practices
Socioeconomic Status and Access to Healthcare Services
Geographical Disparities in Health: Rural vs. Urban
The Impact of Gender on Health Outcomes and Access to Care

Public Health Education

Evaluation of Public Health Education Programs
Innovative Approaches to Teaching Public Health Concepts
Online Health Education Platforms: Opportunities and Challenges
Interdisciplinary Training in Public Health: Bridging Gaps
Continuing Education for Public Health Professionals: Current Landscape

Digital Health

The Role of Wearable Devices in Health Monitoring
Telehealth Adoption: Barriers and Opportunities
Health Apps for Chronic Disease Management: User Perspectives
Blockchain Technology in Healthcare: Privacy and Security Implications
Artificial Intelligence in Disease Diagnosis and Prediction

Health Economics

Cost-Effectiveness of Preventive Health Interventions
The Impact of Healthcare Financing Models on Access to Care
Pharmaceutical Pricing and Access to Essential Medicines
Economic Evaluation of Health Promotion Programs
Health Insurance Coverage and Health Outcomes: A Global Perspective

Innovations in Public Health

3D Printing in Healthcare: Applications and Future Prospects
Gene Editing Technologies and their Ethical Implications
Smart Cities and Public Health: Integrating Technology for Well-being
Nanotechnology in Medicine: Potential for Disease Treatment
The Role of Drones in Public Health: Surveillance and Intervention

Food Safety and Nutrition

Foodborne Illness Outbreaks: Investigating Causes and Prevention
Sustainable Food Systems: Implications for Public Health
Nutritional Interventions for Malnutrition in Developing Countries
Food Labeling and Consumer Understanding: A Critical Review
The Impact of Fast Food Consumption on Public Health

Substance Abuse

Opioid Epidemic: Strategies for Prevention and Treatment
Harm Reduction Approaches in Substance Abuse Programs
Alcohol Consumption Patterns and Public Health Outcomes
Smoking and Mental Health: Exploring the Connection
Novel Psychoactive Substances: Emerging Threats and Strategies

Occupational Health

Workplace Stress and Mental Health: Intervention Strategies
Occupational Hazards in Healthcare Professions: A Comparative Analysis
Ergonomics in the Workplace: Improving Worker Health and Productivity
Night Shift Work and Health Consequences: Addressing Challenges
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations: A Global Overview

Disaster Preparedness and Response

Pandemic Preparedness and Lessons from COVID-19
Natural Disasters and Mental Health: Post-Traumatic Stress
Emergency Response Systems: Improving Timeliness and Efficiency
Communicating Health Risks During Emergencies: Public Perception
Collaborative Approaches to Disaster Response in Global Health

Cancer Research

Precision Medicine in Cancer Treatment: Current Advancements
Cancer Screening Programs: Efficacy and Challenges
Environmental Factors and Cancer Risk: Exploring Connections
Survivorship Care Plans: Enhancing Quality of Life after Cancer
Integrative Therapies in Cancer Care: Complementary Approaches

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Access to Contraception in Developing Countries: Challenges and Solutions
Comprehensive Sex Education Programs: Impact on Teen Pregnancy
Reproductive Health Rights: Global Perspectives and Challenges
Infertility Treatment: Ethical Considerations and Societal Impact
Maternal and Child Health in Conflict Zones: Addressing Challenges

Cardiovascular Health

Hypertension Prevention Programs: Strategies and Effectiveness
Cardiovascular Disease in Women: Gender-Specific Risk Factors
Innovations in Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs
Artificial Heart Technology: Advancements and Ethical Implications
Impact of Air Pollution on Cardiovascular Health: A Global Concern

Social Determinants of Health

Educational Attainment and Health Outcomes: Exploring Links
Income Inequality and its Impact on Population Health
Social Support Networks and Mental Health: A Comprehensive Study
Neighborhood Environments and Health Disparities
Employment and Health: The Interplay of Work and Well-being

Genomics and Public Health

Population Genomics and its Implications for Public Health
Genetic Counseling and Education: Empowering Individuals and Families
Ethical Issues in Genetic Research: Privacy and Informed Consent
Pharmacogenomics: Tailoring Drug Therapies to Individual Genotypes
Gene-Environment Interactions in Disease Risk: Unraveling Complexities

Public Health Ethics

Informed Consent in Public Health Research: Current Practices
Ethical Challenges in Global Health Research: Balancing Priorities
Confidentiality in Public Health Reporting: Striking the Right Balance
Research with Vulnerable Populations: Ethical Considerations
Ethical Implications of Emerging Technologies in Healthcare

Health Communication

The Role of Media in Shaping Public Health Perceptions
Health Literacy Interventions: Improving Understanding of Health Information
Social Media Campaigns for Public Health Promotion: Best Practices
Tailoring Health Messages for Diverse Audiences: Cultural Competency
Risk Communication in Public Health Emergencies: Lessons Learned

Nutrigenomics

Personalized Nutrition Plans based on Genetic Makeup
Impact of Nutrigenomics on Chronic Disease Prevention
Ethical Considerations in Nutrigenomics Research
Public Perceptions of Nutrigenomic Testing: A Qualitative Study
Integrating Nutrigenomics into Public Health Policies

Public Health and Artificial Intelligence

Predictive Analytics in Disease Surveillance: Harnessing AI for Early Detection
Ethical Considerations in AI-Driven Health Decision Support Systems
Machine Learning in Epidemiology: Predicting Disease Outbreaks
Natural Language Processing in Public Health: Text Mining for Insights
Bias in AI Algorithms: Implications for Health Equity

Health Disparities in Aging

Geriatric Health Disparities: Bridging the Gap in Elderly Care
Ageism in Healthcare: Addressing Stereotypes and Discrimination
Social Isolation and Health Consequences in Aging Populations
Access to Palliative Care for Older Adults: A Global Perspective
Alzheimer’s Disease and Ethnic Disparities in Diagnosis and Treatment
Loneliness and Mental Health in the Elderly: Interventions and Support

Research Methodologies in Public Health

Public health research employs various methodologies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches. Each method brings its own strengths to the research process, allowing researchers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues they investigate.

Community-based participatory research is another valuable approach, emphasizing collaboration with communities to address their specific health concerns.

Challenges and Opportunities in Public Health Research

While public health research is immensely rewarding, it comes with its own set of challenges. Funding constraints, ethical dilemmas, the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of technology pose both obstacles and opportunities.

Researchers must navigate these challenges to ensure their work has a meaningful impact on public health.

In conclusion, public health research topics are diverse and dynamic, reflecting the complex nature of the field. As researchers embark on their journeys, they must carefully consider the relevance, impact, and ethical implications of their chosen topics.

The collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of public health research positions it as a powerful tool in addressing the health challenges of our time. By exploring the depths of these topics, researchers contribute to the collective effort to build healthier and more equitable communities.

As we move forward, a continued exploration of relevant public health research topics is essential for shaping the future of healthcare and improving the well-being of populations worldwide.

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77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Medical research is the gateway to improved patient care and expanding our available treatment options. However, finding a relevant and compelling research topic can be challenging.

Use this article as a jumping-off point to select an interesting medical research topic for your next paper or clinical study.

How to choose a medical research topic

When choosing a research topic , it’s essential to consider a couple of things. What topics interest you? What unanswered questions do you want to address?

During the decision-making and brainstorming process, here are a few helpful tips to help you pick the right medical research topic:

Focus on a particular field of study

The best medical research is specific to a particular area. Generalized studies are often too broad to produce meaningful results, so we advise picking a specific niche early in the process.

Maybe a certain topic interests you, or your industry knowledge reveals areas of need.

Look into commonly researched topics

Once you’ve chosen your research field, do some preliminary research. What have other academics done in their papers and projects?

From this list, you can focus on specific topics that interest you without accidentally creating a copycat project. This groundwork will also help you uncover any literature gaps—those may be beneficial areas for research.

Get curious and ask questions

Now you can get curious. Ask questions that start with why, how, or what. These questions are the starting point of your project design and will act as your guiding light throughout the process.

For example:

What impact does pollution have on children’s lung function in inner-city neighborhoods?

Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise?

How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children?

77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023

Need some research inspiration for your upcoming paper or clinical study? We’ve compiled a list of 77 topical and in-demand medical research ideas. Let’s take a look.

Exciting new medical research topics

If you want to study cutting-edge topics, here are some exciting options:

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19.

Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include:

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health

COVID-19 vaccination rates

The evolution of COVID-19 symptoms over time

New variants and strains of the COVID-19 virus

Changes in social behavior and public health regulations amid COVID-19

Vaccinations

Finding ways to cure or reduce the disease burden of chronic infectious diseases is a crucial research area. Vaccination is a powerful option and a great topic to research.

Examples of vaccination-related research topics include:

mRNA vaccines for viral infections

Biomaterial vaccination capabilities

Vaccination rates based on location, ethnicity, or age

Public opinion about vaccination safety

Artificial tissues fabrication

With the need for donor organs increasing, finding ways to fabricate artificial bioactive tissues (and possibly organs) is a popular research area.

Examples of artificial tissue-related research topics you can study include:

The viability of artificially printed tissues

Tissue substrate and building block material studies

The ethics and efficacy of artificial tissue creation

Medical research topics for medical students

For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you’re a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from:

Sleep disorders

Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person’s overall health.

Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics include:

How stress affects sleep quality

The prevalence and impact of insomnia on patients with mental health conditions

Possible triggers for sleep disorder development

The impact of poor sleep quality on psychological and physical health

How melatonin supplements impact sleep quality

Alzheimer’s and dementia

Cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise worldwide. They currently have no cure. As a result, research about these topics is in high demand.

Examples of dementia-related research topics you could explore include:

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a chosen population

Early onset symptoms of dementia

Possible triggers or causes of cognitive decline with age

Treatment options for dementia-like conditions

The mental and physical burden of caregiving for patients with dementia

Lifestyle habits and public health

Modern lifestyles have profoundly impacted the average person’s daily habits, and plenty of interesting topics explore its effects.

Examples of lifestyle and public health-related research topics include:

The nutritional intake of college students

The impact of chronic work stress on overall health

The rise of upper back and neck pain from laptop use

Prevalence and cause of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

Controversial medical research paper topics

Medical research is a hotbed of controversial topics, content, and areas of study.

If you want to explore a more niche (and attention-grabbing) concept, here are some controversial medical research topics worth looking into:

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Depending on where you live, the legalization and use of cannabis for medical conditions is controversial for the general public and healthcare providers.

Examples of medical cannabis-related research topics that might grab your attention include:

The legalization process of medical cannabis

The impact of cannabis use on developmental milestones in youth users

Cannabis and mental health diagnoses

CBD’s impact on chronic pain

Prevalence of cannabis use in young people

The impact of maternal cannabis use on fetal development

Understanding how THC impacts cognitive function

Human genetics

The Human Genome Project identified, mapped, and sequenced all human DNA genes. Its completion in 2003 opened up a world of exciting and controversial studies in human genetics.

Examples of human genetics-related research topics worth delving into include:

Medical genetics and the incidence of genetic-based health disorders

Behavioral genetics differences between identical twins

Genetic risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders

Machine learning technologies for genetic research

Sexual health studies

Human sexuality and sexual health are important (yet often stigmatized) medical topics that need new research and analysis.

As a diverse field ranging from sexual orientation studies to sexual pathophysiology, examples of sexual health-related research topics include:

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections within a chosen population

Mental health conditions within the LGBTQIA+ community

The impact of untreated sexually transmitted infections

Access to safe sex resources (condoms, dental dams, etc.) in rural areas

Health and wellness research topics

Human wellness and health are trendy topics in modern medicine as more people are interested in finding natural ways to live healthier lifestyles.

If this field of study interests you, here are some big topics in the wellness space:

Gluten sensitivity

Gluten allergies and intolerances have risen over the past few decades. If you’re interested in exploring this topic, your options range in severity from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to full-blown anaphylaxis.

Some examples of gluten sensitivity-related research topics include:

The pathophysiology and incidence of Celiac disease

Early onset symptoms of gluten intolerance

The prevalence of gluten allergies within a set population

Gluten allergies and the incidence of other gastrointestinal health conditions

Pollution and lung health

Living in large urban cities means regular exposure to high levels of pollutants.

As more people become interested in protecting their lung health, examples of impactful lung health and pollution-related research topics include:

The extent of pollution in densely packed urban areas

The prevalence of pollution-based asthma in a set population

Lung capacity and function in young people

The benefits and risks of steroid therapy for asthma

Pollution risks based on geographical location

Plant-based diets

Plant-based diets like vegan and paleo diets are emerging trends in healthcare due to their limited supporting research.

If you’re interested in learning more about the potential benefits or risks of holistic, diet-based medicine, examples of plant-based diet research topics to explore include:

Vegan and plant-based diets as part of disease management

Potential risks and benefits of specific plant-based diets

Plant-based diets and their impact on body mass index

The effect of diet and lifestyle on chronic disease management

Health supplements

Supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry. Many health-conscious people take supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, and more.

Examples of health supplement-related research topics worth investigating include:

Omega-3 fish oil safety and efficacy for cardiac patients

The benefits and risks of regular vitamin D supplementation

Health supplementation regulation and product quality

The impact of social influencer marketing on consumer supplement practices

Analyzing added ingredients in protein powders

Healthcare research topics

Working within the healthcare industry means you have insider knowledge and opportunity. Maybe you’d like to research the overall system, administration, and inherent biases that disrupt access to quality care.

While these topics are essential to explore, it is important to note that these studies usually require approval and oversight from an Institutional Review Board (IRB). This ensures the study is ethical and does not harm any subjects.

For this reason, the IRB sets protocols that require additional planning, so consider this when mapping out your study’s timeline.

Here are some examples of trending healthcare research areas worth pursuing:

The pros and cons of electronic health records

The rise of electronic healthcare charting and records has forever changed how medical professionals and patients interact with their health data.

Examples of electronic health record-related research topics include:

The number of medication errors reported during a software switch

Nurse sentiment analysis of electronic charting practices

Ethical and legal studies into encrypting and storing personal health data

Inequities within healthcare access

Many barriers inhibit people from accessing the quality medical care they need. These issues result in health disparities and injustices.

Examples of research topics about health inequities include:

The impact of social determinants of health in a set population

Early and late-stage cancer stage diagnosis in urban vs. rural populations

Affordability of life-saving medications

Health insurance limitations and their impact on overall health

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

People who belong to an ethnic minority are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions when trying to receive quality medical care. This is due to systemic healthcare racism and bias.

As a result, diagnostic and treatment rates in minority populations are a hot-button field of research. Examples of ethnicity-based research topics include:

Cancer biopsy rates in BIPOC women

The prevalence of diabetes in Indigenous communities

Access inequalities in women’s health preventative screenings

The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in Black populations

Pharmaceutical research topics

Large pharmaceutical companies are incredibly interested in investing in research to learn more about potential cures and treatments for diseases.

If you’re interested in building a career in pharmaceutical research, here are a few examples of in-demand research topics:

Cancer treatment options

Clinical research is in high demand as pharmaceutical companies explore novel cancer treatment options outside of chemotherapy and radiation.

Examples of cancer treatment-related research topics include:

Stem cell therapy for cancer

Oncogenic gene dysregulation and its impact on disease

Cancer-causing viral agents and their risks

Treatment efficacy based on early vs. late-stage cancer diagnosis

Cancer vaccines and targeted therapies

Immunotherapy for cancer

Pain medication alternatives

Historically, opioid medications were the primary treatment for short- and long-term pain. But, with the opioid epidemic getting worse, the need for alternative pain medications has never been more urgent.

Examples of pain medication-related research topics include:

Opioid withdrawal symptoms and risks

Early signs of pain medication misuse

Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control

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150+ Health Related Research Topics: Exploring the World

Health-related research is an ever-evolving field that plays a pivotal role in enhancing our understanding of various health issues, improving medical practices, and contributing to the well-being of society. Choosing the right health related research topics is the first and crucial step in the journey of a researcher.

In this blog, we will delve into the significance of selecting the right health-related research topic, explore various methods to do so, and provide you with a comprehensive list of 150+ potential research topics that could make a significant impact in the realm of public health and medicine.

The Significance of Choosing the Right Research Topic

Table of Contents

Impact on Research Quality

The choice of health related research topics significantly influence the quality and relevance of your study. A well-chosen topic can lead to more meaningful and impactful research.

It ensures that your work contributes to existing knowledge and has practical applications. On the other hand, a poorly chosen topic can result in a lackluster study that fails to address important issues or gaps in the field.

Relevance to Current Health Issues

Health-related research topics should reflect the current issues and challenges faced by society. Research that tackles pressing health concerns is more likely to receive attention, funding, and have a lasting impact.

Topics like emerging diseases, mental health, and healthcare delivery in the age of technology are highly relevant in today’s world.

Contribution to Scientific Knowledge

Meaningful research topics can lead to breakthroughs in scientific knowledge. They can change the way we diagnose and treat diseases, offer new insights into human biology, and help us better understand the intricate relationship between health and the environment.

By choosing a topic that addresses an unexplored aspect of health, you have the potential to make a significant contribution to the scientific community.

How to Select a Health Related Research Topic?

Selecting a research topic is not a random process; it requires careful consideration and planning. Here are some steps to guide you in choosing the right health related research topics:

Brainstorming Ideas

Identifying Personal Interests: Start by considering your own interests. What health topics fascinate you? Your passion for a subject can sustain you throughout the research process.
Current Health Trends: Analyze current health trends and issues in society. Look for gaps in knowledge or areas where more research is needed. For example, the ongoing discussions around the impact of social media on mental health are ripe for exploration.
Gap in Existing Knowledge: Review existing research in your area of interest. Identify areas where the current knowledge is lacking or where there is conflicting information. These gaps represent opportunities for further research.

Conducting a Literature Review

Finding Research Gaps: A comprehensive literature review is essential. It helps you identify the gaps in current knowledge and what questions remain unanswered. This step is critical in framing your research question.
Analyzing Recent Studies: Investigate recent studies and their findings. Are there emerging trends or new insights that can inform your research topic? Staying up-to-date with the latest research is vital.

Consultation with Advisors and Experts

Seek guidance from your mentors, professors, or other experts in your field. They can provide valuable insights into potential research topics, as well as suggest areas where your skills and resources align with the current needs of the field.

Ethical Considerations in Topic Selection

Ensure that your research topic is ethically sound. Consider the potential impact on study participants, society, and the environment. If your research involves human subjects, animal testing, or sensitive data, it’s important to address ethical concerns from the outset.

150+ Health Related Research Topics: Categories Wise

Chronic health conditions.

Management of Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents
Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors
Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis and Prevention
Weight Management in Childhood Obesity
Cancer Treatment Innovations

Mental Health

Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
Anxiety Disorder Interventions
Child and Adolescent Psychology
Coping Mechanisms for Stress
Depression in Elderly Populations

Infectious Diseases

Emerging Infectious Diseases and Pandemic Preparedness
Vaccine Development and Hesitancy
Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms
Malaria Eradication Strategies
HIV/AIDS Research

Healthcare Delivery

Telemedicine and Remote Patient Monitoring
Health Disparities Among Minority Communities
Mental Health Access and Equity
Healthcare Insurance Models
Medical Malpractice and Patient Safety

Environmental Health

Air Quality and Respiratory Health
Climate Change and Health Impacts
Food Safety in the Supply Chain
Waterborne Diseases and Safety
Occupational Health and Safety

Public Health Policy

Health Regulations in the Tobacco Industry
Maternal and Child Health Policies
Universal Healthcare Implementation
Health Literacy and Education
Aging Population and Healthcare Policy

Nutrition and Dietetics

Impact of Plant-Based Diets on Health
Nutritional Requirements for Athletes
Childhood Nutrition and Obesity Prevention
Food Allergies and Dietary Restrictions
Nutritional Deficiencies in Aging Populations

Pharmaceutical Research

Drug Discovery for Rare Diseases
Precision Medicine and Genomics
Medication Adherence and Compliance
Clinical Trials and Drug Efficacy
Herbal Medicine and Alternative Therapies

Women’s Health

Menstrual Health and Reproductive Issues
Cervical and Breast Cancer Screening
Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy
Domestic Violence and Health Outcomes
Maternal Mental Health

Children’s Health

Childhood Vaccination Schedules
Childhood Obesity Interventions
Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
Pediatric Cancer Treatments

Aging and Gerontology

Longevity and Healthy Aging
Alzheimer’s Disease in the Elderly
Geriatric Healthcare Models
Elderly Nutrition and Care
End-of-Life Care and Decision-Making

Global Health

Health Equity in Low-Income Countries
Global Disease Prevention Strategies
International Health Partnerships
Water and Sanitation Access
Refugee Health and Migration

Addiction and Substance Abuse

Opioid Crisis Interventions
Alcoholism and Treatment Approaches
Smoking Cessation Strategies
Gambling Addiction Research
Adolescent Substance Abuse

Injury Prevention

Road Traffic Safety Measures
Workplace Safety and Injury Prevention
Concussion and Brain Injury Research
Falls Prevention in the Elderly
Firearm Injury Prevention

Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance

Disease Outbreak Investigations
Epidemiological Studies on Non-Communicable Diseases
Disease Surveillance and Data Analytics
Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Cancer Epidemiology and Screening

Health Informatics

Electronic Health Records and Data Security
Telehealth Technology and Adoption
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
Health Data Analysis and Big Data
Health Information Exchange

Health Behavior and Lifestyle

Exercise and Physical Activity Promotion
Smoking Cessation Programs
Sleep Quality and Health Outcomes
Diet and Nutrition Behavior Change
Health Beliefs and Health-Seeking Behaviors

Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Acupuncture and Pain Management
Yoga and Mind-Body Therapies
Herbal Supplements and Safety
Chiropractic Care and Back Pain
Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine

Reproductive Health

Fertility Preservation and Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Sexual Health Education in Schools
Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevention
Birth Control Options and Access
Maternal Mortality and Pregnancy Complications

Bioethics and Medical Ethics

Informed Consent in Medical Research
Ethical Dilemmas in End-of-Life Care
Organ Transplant Ethics
Ethical Considerations in Genetic Testing
Medical Research Involving Vulnerable Populations

Genetics and Genomic Medicine

Personalized Medicine and Genomic Profiling
Genetic Counseling and Rare Diseases
Gene Editing and Ethical Implications
Epigenetics and Health Outcomes
Pharmacogenetics and Medication Response

Dental Health

Dental Hygiene and Oral Health Promotion
Orthodontics and Oral Function
Pediatric Dentistry and Tooth Decay Prevention
Periodontal Disease and Systemic Health
Dental Implants and Prosthetics

Environmental Toxicology

Chemical Exposure and Health Effects
Heavy Metals in the Environment
Pesticides and Human Health
Airborne Pollutants and Respiratory Health
Water Contaminants and Public Health

Health and Technology

Wearable Health Devices and Health Monitoring
E-Health and Mobile Health Applications
3D Printing in Healthcare
Robotics in Medical Procedures
Virtual Reality in Healthcare Training

Neuroscience and Brain Health

Brain Development in Children
Neurodegenerative Diseases Research
Cognitive Enhancement and Neuroethics
Neuroimaging and Mental Health Diagnosis
Neuroplasticity and Stroke Recovery

Pharmacology

Drug Interactions and Adverse Effects
Herbal Supplements and Drug Interactions
Antibiotic Stewardship and Resistance
Psychotropic Medications and Mental Health
Over-the-Counter Medications and Safety

Respiratory Health

Asthma Management and Inhaler Techniques
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Research
Environmental Allergens and Respiratory Conditions
Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Lung Function
Sleep Apnea and Treatment Options

Geriatric Care

Elderly Nutrition and Nutritional Assessment
Dementia Care and Support
Palliative Care and End-of-Life Planning
Geriatric Nursing and Long-Term Care
Elderly Falls Prevention and Mobility

Cardiovascular Health

Hypertension Management and Medication Adherence
Heart Disease Prevention and Lifestyle Interventions
Stroke Rehabilitation and Recovery
Arrhythmia Detection and Cardiac Health
Heart Transplantation and Post-Transplant Care

Palliative Care

Pain Management in Palliative Care
Ethical Considerations in End-of-Life Decision-Making
Bereavement Support and Grief Counseling
Hospice Care and Quality of Life
Pediatric Palliative Care and Family Support

Resources for Health Related Research Topics

In your quest to address these topics, you’ll need access to a variety of resources:

Academic Journals and Databases: Utilize academic journals and online databases to access a wealth of peer-reviewed research articles and studies.
Government Health Agencies: Government health agencies like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer valuable data and research reports.
Research Grant Opportunities: Seek out research grant opportunities from organizations and foundations that fund health-related studies. These grants can provide essential financial support for your research endeavors.

The Research Process

After selecting your research topic, you’ll embark on the research journey. The process typically involves the following steps:

Formulating a Research Question: Clearly define your research question or hypothesis. This will serve as the foundation for your study.
Designing the Research Methodology: Choose the research methods and tools you’ll use to collect and analyze data. Be sure to explain the rationale for your chosen approach.
Data Collection and Analysis: Gather data through experiments, surveys, interviews, or observations. Analyze the data meticulously and draw meaningful conclusions.
Drawing Conclusions: Summarize your findings and relate them to your initial research question. Highlight the implications of your research.
Communicating Research Findings: Share your research findings through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at conferences, and in public health reports. Effective communication is key to maximizing the impact of your research.

Challenges in Health-Related Research

While health-related research is incredibly rewarding, it’s not without its challenges:

Ethical Dilemmas: Researchers often face ethical dilemmas when conducting studies that involve human subjects or sensitive data. It’s essential to navigate these dilemmas responsibly.
Data Privacy and Security: As research increasingly relies on digital data, maintaining the privacy and security of data becomes critical.
Funding and Resource Constraints: Funding can be limited, and resource constraints may hinder research efforts. Grant applications and budgeting are crucial skills for researchers.
Timeliness and Relevance: Keeping up with the rapidly changing landscape of health and medicine is a constant challenge. Research must remain relevant to be impactful.

Health-related research is a dynamic and crucial field that continues to evolve and shape the future of healthcare and public health. Choosing the right health related research topic is the first step in making a meaningful contribution to this field.

By selecting topics that align with your interests, address current health challenges, and bridge existing knowledge gaps, you can embark on a research journey that has the potential to improve lives, advance scientific knowledge, and benefit society as a whole.

As you explore health-related research topics, keep in mind the importance of ethical considerations, stay informed about the latest research trends, and seek guidance from mentors and experts in the field.

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150+ Public Health Research Topics & Ideas For Students

Public health research aims to understand and improve the health of communities and people. Some crucial areas of research in public health today include looking at social factors that affect health, developing helpful health programs, improving access to healthcare, and reducing health differences.

In this blog, we will discuss public health research topics. Public health research uses scientific ways to identify things that influence health, disease, and injury in groups of people. Researchers collect and analyze information to find trends and patterns in health outcomes.

This information is then used to develop programs, policies, and interventions to improve population health. With many continuing and new health challenges, public health research is essential for informing effective strategies to protect and promote the health of all people. Let’s dive in to explore public health research topics.

Why Public Health Research Matters?

Table of Contents

Public health research is important because:

It finds health problems affecting groups of people. This helps public health workers know where help is most needed.
It guides leaders on where to put resources. Findings show where funding should go to improve health the most.
It checks if public health programs and policies work. Research helps improve these efforts over time.
It leads to new health discoveries. Research teaches us more about keeping people healthy.
It encourages healthy choices. When people know what affects their health, they can make better choices.
Research improves quality of life and seeks to help people live longer, healthier lives.
Research builds healthier communities and provides information to help make communities healthier for all.

In short, public health research gives important information to guide work that protects and improves everyone’s health. It’s a key tool for promoting community well-being.

Key Areas in Public Health Research

Here are some key areas in public health research:

Epidemiology

Studies patterns of disease, health risks, and health behaviors in populations. Identifies risk factors that impact community health.

Health Disparities

Health Disparities examine differences in health outcomes, access to care, and quality of life across populations. It seeks to understand and reduce inequities.

Social Determinants of Health

It examines how social, economic, and environmental factors shape health and well-being. Focuses on improving conditions for healthy living.

Health Promotion

Health Promotion develops and evaluates programs and policies to encourage healthy lifestyles, behaviors, and choices. It also promotes wellness and disease prevention.

Environmental Health

Explores links between environmental exposures and health. Identifies and mitigates ecological hazards and risks.

Health Systems and Policy

Health Systems and Policy analyze health system structures, functions, and reforms to optimize quality, access, costs, and outcomes. It also evaluates health policies.

Community Health Assessments

Collects and analyzes data on population health status, needs, resources, and priorities to guide public health planning.

Program Evaluation

Assesses effectiveness and impact of public health programs and interventions. It also helps refine approaches.

Public Health Preparedness

Examines capacities to prevent, respond to, and recover from health emergencies and disasters and strengthens public health systems.

Health Communication

Develop strategies to provide health information and influence health behaviors and social norms. Tailors are messaging for diverse audiences.

150+ Public Health Research Topics

Here is a list of 150+ public health research topics categorized into 15 groups.

Infectious Diseases: Public Health Research Topics

Emerging infectious diseases: Challenges and responses
Antimicrobial resistance: A global threat
Vaccination strategies for preventing infectious diseases
Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in different regions
Impact of COVID-19 on mental health
Vector-borne diseases: Surveillance and control
Tuberculosis control and prevention
Malaria elimination strategies
Influenza outbreak preparedness
Waterborne diseases: Prevention and control

Chronic Diseases: Public Health Research Topics

Diabetes prevention and management
Cardiovascular disease risk factors and interventions
Cancer screening programs: Effectiveness and challenges
Obesity prevention in children and adults
Chronic respiratory diseases: Trends and interventions
Mental health and chronic illness
Substance abuse and its impact on chronic diseases
Aging and the risk of chronic conditions
Environmental factors in chronic disease development
Genetic predisposition to chronic diseases

Environmental Health Research Topics

Air pollution and respiratory health
Water quality and its impact on public health
Climate change and health disparities
Occupational health and safety
Urban planning for healthier cities
Food safety and its implications for public health
Environmental justice and health outcomes
Pesticide exposure and health risks
Noise pollution and its effects on well-being
Built environment and public health
Electronic waste and its health implications

Health Policy and Management: Public Health Research Topics

Healthcare disparities in underserved populations
Health insurance coverage and access to care
Health system strengthening in developing countries
Telemedicine: Opportunities and challenges
Ethics in Health policy decision-making
Healthcare workforce shortages: Causes and solutions
Cost-effectiveness of public health interventions
Public-private partnerships in healthcare
Quality improvement in healthcare delivery
Health information technology and patient outcomes
Global health governance and policy

Maternal and Child Health: Public Health Research Topics

Maternal mortality reduction strategies
Early childhood development and its long-term impact
Breastfeeding promotion and support
Adolescent reproductive health education
Neonatal care and preterm birth prevention
Childhood immunization programs
Child malnutrition: Causes and interventions
Parental influences on child health behaviors
Teen pregnancy prevention programs
Access to prenatal care in low-income communities

Health Behavior and Education: Public Health Research Topics

Health promotion through social media
School-based health education programs
Tobacco control and smoking cessation interventions
Physical activity promotion in communities
Nutrition education and behavior change
Substance abuse prevention campaigns
Sexual health education in schools
Stress management and mental health promotion
Community engagement in health initiatives
Health Literacy and its effect on Individuals’ health outcomes

Global Health Research Topics

Eradication of infectious diseases in developing countries
Humanitarian interventions in conflict zones
Water and sanitation programs in underserved regions
Access to essential medicines in low-income countries
Reproductive health in the global context
International collaborations in health research
Refugee health and well-being
Cultural competence in global health practice
Impact of globalization on health outcomes
Health diplomacy and international relations

Epidemiology and Biostatistics: Public Health Research Topics

Surveillance systems for disease tracking
Statistical methods in epidemiological research
Spatial analysis in public health studies
Meta-analysis in health research
Longitudinal studies in epidemiology
Big data analytics in public health
Genetic epidemiology: Advancements and challenges
Screening methods for disease detection
Causal inference in observational studies
Bayesian statistics in health research

Health Equity and Social Determinants: Public Health Research Topics

Social determinants of health disparities
LGBTQ+ inclusive healthcare policies
Racial and ethnic health inequities
Income inequality and health outcomes
Access to healthcare in marginalized communities
Intersectionality and health disparities
Gender-based health disparities
Educational attainment and health outcomes
Housing and its impact on health
Cultural competence in healthcare delivery
LGBTQ+ health disparities and inclusivity

Mental Health Research Topics

Stigma reduction in mental health disorders
Suicide prevention strategies
Mental health in the workplace
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) interventions
Access to mental health services in rural regions
Child and adolescent mental health programs
Substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders
Technology-based mental health interventions
Cultural perspectives on mental health
Resilience and mental well-being

Health Technology and Innovation: Public Health Research Topics

Wearable technology in health monitoring
Artificial intelligence in disease diagnosis
Mobile health (mHealth) applications
Telehealth and remote patient monitoring
The role of citizen science in health innovation
Health informatics and electronic health records
3D printing in healthcare
Precision medicine and personalized healthcare
Virtual reality in health education and therapy
Robotics in healthcare delivery
Ethical considerations in health technology

Community Health Research Topics

Community-based participatory research
Community health assessments and planning
Grassroots health advocacy
Community health worker programs
Social support networks and health outcomes
Faith-based health initiatives
Community resilience in health emergencies
Cultural competence in community health programs
Community gardens and their impact on nutrition
Social marketing for health behavior change

Occupational Health Research Topics

Workplace stress and mental health
Occupational exposure to hazardous substances
Ergonomics in the prevention of work-related injuries
Occupational health and well-being programs
Worksite health promotion initiatives
Shift work and its impact on health
Occupational health surveillance
Prevention of workplace violence
Occupational health in the gig economy
Role of unions in promoting occupational health

Disaster Preparedness and Response: Public Health Research Topics

Public health planning for natural disasters
Emergency response coordination and communication
Mental health support in disaster-affected communities
Infectious disease control in emergency shelters
Disaster risk reduction strategies
Humanitarian aid in post-disaster scenarios
Community resilience in disaster-prone areas
Lessons learned from past pandemics for future preparedness
Public health implications of climate-related disasters
Technology in disaster response and recovery

Health Economics: Public Health Research Topics

Cost-effectiveness of preventive healthcare measures
The economic effect of chronic diseases on healthcare systems
Healthcare financing models and access to care
Value-based healthcare delivery
Pharmaceutical pricing and access
Economic evaluation of public health interventions
Health disparities and economic inequality
Impact of health policies on economic productivity
Global economic implications of health crises
Social determinants of economic well-being

Feel free to choose any of these topics for your research or adapt them based on your specific interests and requirements.

Challenges and Opportunities in Public Health Research

Here are some critical challenges and opportunities in public health research:

The complexity of public health problems – Issues like obesity, cancer, or health inequities have multiple interrelated causes, requiring sophisticated research approaches.
Data limitations – Public health data may be inconsistent, incomplete, or lack granularity to address specific research questions. There are gaps in data collection.
Community involvement – Public health research should engage intended populations, but this takes time and trust-building. Historically marginalized groups may be skeptical.
Policymaker investment – Research needs policymaker buy-in, but political timelines and priorities may not align. Demonstrating the value of research investment can be difficult.
Funding constraints – Public health research competes for limited funding, especially long-term support needed for community interventions or infrastructure.
Interdisciplinary coordination – Addressing public health issues requires collaboration across fields like medicine, social sciences, urban planning, etc. This can be complex to coordinate.

Opportunities

New technologies – Emerging data analysis methods, geospatial mapping, online engagement tools, and more can enable innovative, rigorous research.
Community partnerships – Strong relationships with local organizations allow the co-design of research that best meets community priorities and knowledge.
Cross-sectoral collaboration – Partnering with groups in other sectors like education, transportation, and environment brings new perspectives.
Translation into policy and practice – Timely research translation maximizes opportunities to apply findings for impactful policy and program improvement.
Capacity building – Investing in researcher training, community involvement, research literacy, and public data access expands quality research efforts.
Health equity focus – Center health equity goals in research to effectively address the needs of marginalized groups.
Communication of findings – Using diverse media to communicate findings to various audiences effectively advances research uptake.

Final Remarks

In this blog, we have discussed the public health research topics. Public health research is fundamental to helping keep communities healthy. Researchers study many different health topics and problems. They examine diseases, health programs, healthcare access, and group differences.

The research gives information to make health policies, create health programs, and help people live longer. There are challenges like limited funding and complex problems. But new technologies and working with local groups can help do good research.

The findings are used to improve health for everyone. More public health research is needed to address new health problems and help build a healthier world. I hope you enjoyed this post and chose the right public health research topic.

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226 Hot Public Health Thesis Topics For Top Grades

Are you stuck trying to get the best current public health research topics for thesis and writing it? If yes, know you are not alone. A lot of students find the tasks challenging, but we are here to help. Keep reading our informative guide that demonstrates how to prepare an engaging public health paper.

We will also highlight hot 226 health policy topics for paper and other public health ideas for dissertation that you can use for top grades. Why settle for less when we can help you select the best college or university papers?

What Is Public Health?

Before looking at the top public health statistics undergraduate thesis topics or other public health research ideas, let’s start with the definition. So, what is public health?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), public health is “the art and science of preventing diseases, helping to prolong life and promote health using organized efforts. Good examples of public health efforts include preventing outbreaks, educating the public on health choices, promoting fitness, preparing for emergencies, and avoiding the spread of infectious diseases. Public health

How To Write A Great Public Health Dissertation

If you are a graduate or masters student, one of the most comprehensive documents that you need to prepare is the dissertation. It is an expansive paper and comes at the end of your course. Remember that you need to ensure it is prepared well because a team of professors will ultimately evaluate it. So, here are the main steps that you need to follow to prepare a high quality dissertation:

Identify the topic of study Comprehensively research the topic and identify the main points to support it Develop the thesis statement for the dissertation (this thesis will ultimately be tested after gathering your data) Develop an outline for the dissertation. This guide should tell you what to write at what specific instance. Here is a sample outline: Topic of the study Introduction. Start with the thesis statement, followed by the objectives of the study. Then, the rest of the introduction should be used to set the background for the study. Literature review: Review relevant resources about the topic. Methodology: Explain the methodology that was used during the study. Is Results and analysis: Provide the results gathered during the study. Discussion and conclusion: Here, you should discuss the study results and demonstrate whether they approve or disapprove the thesis statement. If you found any gaps in the previous studies, highlight them too and call for further studies. Bibliography: This is a list of all the resources you used to prepare the paper. Write the first draft following the outline we have just listed above. Write the final copy by refining the first draft, proofreading, and editing it.

Awesome Public Health Thesis Topics

Here are the leading thesis topics in public health for top grades. You can use them as they are or tweak a little to suit your preference.

Public Health Thesis Topics In Mental Issues

What is the role of public health in addressing mental issues in society?
Seasonal affective disorder: A review of the disorder’s prevalence rates.
Society should always listen to the needs of mentally ill persons.
Eating disorders in adults: A review of the treatment strategies used for adults in the UK.
What is the relation between climate change and emerging public health issues?
Comparing depression prevalence rates in the UK to those of the US.
What are the main causes of anxiety disorders in society?
A review of the connection between HIV/AIDS and mental health issues in society.
Running a public health facility: What is the most important equipment?
Emerging public health issues in developing countries.
Analyzing the psychological problems of breast cancer.
What strategies should people use to prevent their mental health from social media dangers?
A review of the public health benefits associated with active lifestyles.
Stress: Why is it a major risk factor for mental health in many communities?
What are the most common mental health issues in society today?
Comparing the rates of depression and stress in China and the UK.
Addressing anxiety-related disorders: Is cognitive-behavior therapy the best treatment method?
A review of the economic burden of living with a person suffering from anxiety disorders.
How does depression impact the quality of life?
Comparing training of public health officers in the US to India.

Unique Research Topics In Public Health

Surrogacy: A review of associated ethical issues.
Prevalence of medical errors in hospitals: A review of the policies used to prevent the problem in the United States.
Blood transfusion: What are the side effects?
A review of doctors’ roles in promoting healthy lifestyles.
Maintaining healthy body weight: Comparing the effectiveness of the recommended methods.
A review of organ donation trends in Europe and Asia.
Analyzing the ethical factors around cloning: When should it be allowed?
The ethics of human experimentation.
Comparing the rates of heart attacks in women to men in the United States.
What are the main causes of heart attacks? Can it be prevented?
Progress in diabetes studies and treatment: Is it possible to get a cure in the future?
Biological weapons and their impacts on society: A review of the Leukemia rates in Japan.
Pre-diabetes in children: What are the main symptoms, and how can it be addressed?

Public Health Paper Topics On COVID-19

How will COVID-19 change life?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of self-isolation?
Life lessons that you learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What challenges has your community faced during COVID-19 pandemic?
School life during COVID-19 pandemic.
A review of mass media operations during pandemic.
What projects did you undertake during the pandemic?
A review of projects that your community undertook during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A closer look at the backlash against Asians in Europe at the start COVID-19 pandemic period.
Preparing for the next pandemic: What lessons did the world learn from the COVID-19 pandemic?
The best strategies for staying healthy during a pandemic.
Is there anything that we could have done to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic?
Comparing the effectiveness of Europe and American healthcare preparedness for tackling disasters.
A review of mental health status in a community of your choice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A review of COVID-19 emergence theories: Which one do you think is more credible?
Comparing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to Ebola.
Vaccines development for viral infections: What made the development of the COVID-19 vaccine possible so fast, whereas that of HIV/AIDS has taken so long?
A review of the vaccine development process.
Time for review: How effectively do you think your government responded to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Rethinking public health on a global scale: Demonstrating why effective healthcare is only possible when looked at globally.

Interesting Public Health Research Topic Ideas

What is the importance of learning public health in school?
Identify and review a common public health issue in your community.
The history of human health: Comparing what was considered healthy in ancient times to what is referred to as healthy today.
Going vegan: How can it impact your health?
Excessive weight: Is it the new threat to human civilization?
Is bodybuilding healthy?
Body positive: Is it a new health standard or ignorance of body issues?
Things to consider when selecting healthy food to eat.
Why psychological health should be part of every community in society.
The health of newborns: What is the difference between their healthcare and that of adults?
Emerging trends in the healthcare industry: How can the latest trends benefit society?
Comparing depression and anxiety in two countries of your choice.
Physical wellness must include healthy behavioral patterns and nutrition.
A sense of belonging is paramount to personal and community health.
What is the relationship between spirituality and public health?
A review of stigmatization of mental health issues in a community of your choice.
Is it possible to prevent depression?
At what point should children start learning sex-related education?
Comparing the two main public health issues in two cities: London and New York.
What is the relationship between poverty and public health?

Hot Researchable Topics In Public Health

The resurgence of measles in society: The best guidance for clinicians.
Tackling the growing national drug problem.
Bioterrorism preparedness for global disasters.
A review of recent vitamin D recommendations for older adults.
Strategies for maintaining maternal mortality at low levels across the globe.
Efforts by Asian governments to reduce infections from using unsafe water.
Over-the-counter drug abuse in Europe: Compare two countries of your choice.
Health care providers’ roles in preventing bullying in society.
Knowledge management in the UK healthcare organizations.
The health benefits of good healthcare waste management.
Characteristics of dental wastes in hospitals.
Comparing the most prevalent public health issues in developed and developing nations.
Latest trends in financing public health.
The relevance of clinical epidemiology in public health.
Evidence based public health.
Epidemiological burden of HIV/AIDS in developing countries.
Addressing cervical cancer in developing countries: Is it possible to eliminate it completely?
Ethics in public health clinical research.
Comparing the strategies used in teaching and motivating public health professionals in developing and developed countries.

Research Topics In Public Health For Masters

Advertising and impacts on food choices in the community.
The use of stem cell technologies for cancer treatment: What are the latest trends?
Bio-printing: Is it the future of organ transplants?
Nutrition education: How does it promote healthy diets?
Exercising: What role does it play in promoting strength and balance in the elderly?
Weight loss surgery: What are the key advantages and disadvantages?
Heart disease is a major public health issue in society.
Alternative strategies for treating depression in society: Are they effective?
Healthcare leadership and its importance in public health.
Legal aspects of public health care in the society.
Mental disabilities in patients: A review of the emerging trends in the UK.
How does the United States promote the development of public health?
Inequalities in medicine: What impact does it have in public health?
The most controversial issues in public health in the UK.
What are the most preferred storage systems for medical supplies in the UK public health facilities?
Reimagining the public health systems on the globe: Where do you see the UK health system in the next 20 years?

Hot Thesis Topics Public Health

Mandatory overtime work for medical staff: How does it impact their commitment to their job?
Nursing shortage and its impact in public health.
Strategies for improving public health in the EU.
Mental health issues among asylum seekers in the United States.
Common mental issues among veterans returning from war: A case study of the United States.
What functions does management play in healthcare settings when handling key public health issues?
How poor relationships between nurses and doctors can impact public health services delivery.
Third-party players in public health and their roles.
Financial reporting standards in public health facilities.
What is the correlation between revenue collection in society and the quality of patient services?
Reviewing the coordination of public health officials during disasters.
The importance of staff training on quality of health services.
Comparing the differences between alternative medicine and conventional medicine in addressing public health issues in society.
Obesity: What are the main causes in child-going age?
A review of health consequences of caffeine.
Medical marijuana: What are the main pros and cons?
A review of the US Farm Bill Amendments that legalized use of cannabis in the US.
Doing sports: Is it always healthy?
Low-fat or low-carb diet: Which one is better in addressing overweight and diabetes issues?
Preventing communicable diseases: Evaluating the prevention strategies used in Asia.
What is the estimated cost of treating heart problems?

Controversial Public Health Dissertation Topics

Smoking and impacts of current efforts to address cancer in the society.
A review of the main causes of heart attacks in society today.
Tobacco ads: Evaluating their impacts and the relationship to the current cancer trends in the society.
Sleep disorders: Explain why they should be considered a public health issue.
Staffing shortage and the impacts in fighting COVID-19 pandemic in Asia.
Analyzing risk management of treating different diseases in the community.
COVID-19 pandemic in numbers: Comparing the infection rates in the developed and developing countries.
Reviewing strategies used in the US public health system to achieve equity: How effective are they?
Analyzing the main challenges in the UK medical care system.
Rising cases of suicides in the society: What are the main causes?
A comprehensive review of strategies used to prevent suicides in the 21st century in the US.
Use of vaccines to prevent diseases: Do adults still need the vaccines?
Heat-related deaths: What strategies should be adopted?
Chronic-diseases prevention: Comparing the strategies used in developing and developed countries.
Are we becoming too dependent on antibiotics in fighting diseases?
Opioid crisis: Are the doctors to blame for it?
Use of blockchain in growing accuracy of clinical trials in medicine.
What dangers are posed by nuclear wastes in society?
Assessing US industrial facilities compliance rates to cut down emissions.
Using clean energy as a strategy of improving public health: What are the expectations?
What is the healthiest country?
Evaluating the correlation between gaming and deviant behavior among children in society.
COVID-19 could have been prevented if WHO was more vigilant?

Public Health Research Questions

Is the high cost of medical healthcare in the United States justified?
What is the correlation between poverty and poor health in society?
Should health care for homeless people be free?
Unconventional medicine: Should it be part of the UK healthcare system?
Should doctors be responsible for medical errors?
Should medical officers or health facilities be allowed to promote selective medical products?
Should all healthcare facilities in the UK be required to have translators for non-English speaking clients?
Mental health issues associated with domestic violence: A case study of France.
Is it a good idea to legalize euthanasia?
What are the benefits of using surgical masks in public?
What are the most important lessons from the different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic reported on the globe?
Who is more responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic?
Ebola or COVID-19 pandemic: Which is worse?
What are the main causes of epidemics on the globe?
Public health planning: What are the most important things to think about?
Should governments pay the cost of rehabilitating drug addicts in society?
Teaching children healthy lifestyles: What are the best strategies?
What problems do people with autism face in society?
What are the leading causes of child mortality in your community?
Gun violence in the United States: Should it be considered a public health issue?
What illnesses are considered foodborne?

Easy Topics In Public Health

All workplaces should support breastfeeding.
What are the best strategies to reduce pollution in society?
Public health benefits of recycling waste in society.
Reviewing the causes of poor water quality in the developing world.
Comparing water quality standards policies in the UK and US.
Health impacts of the rapid depletion of o-zone depletion.
Better planning of infrastructural development is important for healthier societies: Discuss.
The US is better prepared to handle pandemics that might arise after the COVID-19 pandemic. Discuss.
A review of common diseases spread by vectors.
A review of key policies installed to protect employee health.
Legal age for consuming energy drinks should be set by the government to address the problem of diabetes.
Smoking: Should it be banned in public?
What are the best strategies for raising awareness in public?
Can reducing the workload of employees in manufacturing facilities improve their health?
Sunbathing should be restricted to prevent the risk of cancer: Discuss.
Should abortion be banned in society?
School-related stress: How can it be prevented?
Should birth control be made available and free for all teenagers?
What should be categorized as a bad health habit?
Compare and contrast two common treatment methods for treating behavioral disorders.
Internet addiction: What are the main dangers of internet addiction?

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Public Health Research Topics: 200+ Ideas to Write Your Paper On

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Are you searching for the most fitting public health research topics for your academic assignments? Don't fret, we've got your back. Many scholars stumble upon this hurdle, but we're here to lend a helping hand. Check this guide from our online paper writing service to find a compelling public health topic idea for your project. We'll spotlight an assortment of fascinating public health topics for research papers to give you various suggestions to choose from.

What Are Public Health Research Topics?

Public health research topics are areas of study within the larger field of public health. They cover diverse issues like community health, disease prevention, and health policies. These research topic ideas help us understand and improve global healthcare. They can explore various factors like environmental impacts on public overall wellbeing or the effectiveness of health policies. In a nutshell, each topic is a chance to improve global health and devise effective strategies.

Characteristics of Good Public Health Research Topics

Choosing the right public health research topic is the first step to anchoring a successful project. A good research idea serves as the foundation providing a frame for your study. Here are some key characteristics that define good public health research topics:

Unique Your idea should offer a fresh perspective or address underexplored areas within public health.
Researchable Your topic should be within the scope of your resources and abilities. Make sure there are sufficient and accessible data sources to draw from.
Information-rich A research idea should evolve around issues that offer enough breadth and depth of information to support a rigorous analysis.
Specific It must be focused, clearly defined, and concise, preventing the research from becoming too broad or vague.
Relevant Try to align with current public health issues and trends, or have clear implications for policy, practice, or further research.

How to Choose a Public Health Research Topic?

The selection process can be daunting, but there are numerous ways to come up with an interesting and thought-provoking idea. Here are some tips on picking proper public health research topic ideas:

Start small Start by exploring areas that interest you and narrow down your search as you go along.
Explore resources Utilize online databases, literature reviews, and other sources to get more information on your topic.
Review current trends Check out the most recent publications to know what public health topics are in vogue and how they can be applied to your project.
Brainstorm ideas Take some time out for brainstorming sessions with your peers or professors. You'll come up with incredible insights that may spark the perfect topic.
Narrow down the list After you've gathered a sufficient amount of ideas, go through them and cut away any irrelevant or redundant topics.

List of Research Topics in Public Health

Ready to dive into the world of public health research but don't know where to start? Well, grab your pen and get ready to tick public health topics for research that meet your needs. Each of these subjects is original and offers a unique perspective in the global health domain.

How do climate changes influence public health?
How is the digital age affecting global health?
Dissecting health disparities in racial and ethnic minorities.
Are some health systems more effective than others?
What role does public health play in pandemic response?
Confronting the obesity epidemic.
Understanding the link between clean water access and public health.
What are some implications of e-cigarettes on public wellbeing?
Investigating strategies for promoting healthy aging.
How can we achieve global health security?
How does nutrition influence global communities?
Can urban planning affect public health?
Global crisis of antibiotic resistance.
What's the impact of stress on overall health?
Evaluating how air pollution impacts people?

Good Public Health Research Topics

Are you looking for public health project ideas that are both interesting and pertinent? Here's a list of the most compelling ideas to base your study on.

Social media in the discourse of public health.
Analyzing the effects of climate change on global disease patterns.
Exploring how technology is transforming healthcare delivery and access in disadvantaged communities.
Assessing the impact of health education on health behaviour change.
Investigating how public transport systems can improve access to healthcare services.
Analyzing strategies for reducing preventable chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension.
Private vs public clinics.
Nature-based interventions in promoting global health.
Investigating the role of education in healthy lifestyle choices.
Analyzing how artificial intelligence can be used to combat public health epidemics.
Examining strategies for managing infectious diseases across borders.
How does food insecurity influence public health outcomes?
Analyzing the effectiveness of public health policies in addressing global poverty.
Investigating how to build resilient and healthy communities after natural disasters.
Exploring how healthcare workers can better respond to social determinants of health.

Interesting Public Health Research Topics

If you are looking for something more unique and offbeat, check out these public health topics for a research paper or project.

Natural disasters on global health outcomes.
Investigating the use of virtual reality in managing hospitals worldwide.
How video games can promote physical activity?
How does digital healthcare influence global medical privacy?
Using mobile healthcare applications in rural areas.
Exploring the use of drones in global care delivery.
Evaluating strategies for reducing food waste and its influence on public health outcomes.
Examining how urban green spaces affect public wellbeing.
Using big data to predict outbreaks in global communities.
Artificial intelligence in diagnosing and managing chronic illnesses.
Analyzing strategies for reducing poverty-related diseases in developing countries.
Access to healthcare and its influence on mortality rate.
Using digital platforms in managing health issues across populations.
Investigating strategies for promoting mental health in underprivileged communities.
Exploring the influence of media on public health awareness.

Easy Research Topics About Public Health

Are you new to this domain and feeling a bit overwhelmed? We've all been there. That's why our team of seasoned term paper writers has put together a list of simpler topics for beginners. Think of them as the basic steps that will help you reach that balance. Let's set the stage with this simplified list of research topics in public health:

Understanding basic hygiene and its role in public health.
Does regular exercise contribute to better public health?
How does fast food culture affect public health?
Public health benefits of clean air.
Can pets improve global community wellbeing?
Why is health education important in schools?
Investigating the connection between social wellbeing and clean water.
Basic nutrition: What everyone should know?
Vaccinations: Why are they important?
How does poverty affect public health?
The role of public parks in promoting community health.
Stress: Its effects and ways to manage it.
Why smoking is dangerous?
AIDS awareness and its influence on global communities.
Exploring the link between pollution and global health.

Best Public Health Research Topics

Are you trying to make an impression with your global health research? You're on the right track! Below we've whipped up a list of the best public health topics to research that are not only in tune with the times but also versatile enough to fit any research. Just remember to always back up your ideas with strong, reliable evidence.

Health impacts of urbanization and city life.
Are healthier food options really healthier?
Prevalence of obesity: Causes and prevention.
How do vaccination campaigns affect public health?
How has COVID-19 reshaped public health policies?
Worldwide pollution and its effects on respiratory system.
The rise of telemedicine: A boon or a bane?
What is the role of physical activity in public health?
The correlation between education level and health outcomes.
How does income inequality impact public health?
Is there a link between social media use and anxiety?
Evaluating strategies for reducing drug and alcohol abuse within communities.
How can we achieve gender parity in public health?
Analyzing public policies for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
What are some implications of e-cigarettes for public wellbeing?

Current Research Topics in Public Health

There are so many topics and so much potential in them! To help you navigate this vast domain, we've gathered some of the best public health research questions that are perfect for a wide array of studies.

Health impacts of microplastics in our environment.
Psychological effects of long-term isolation.
How do urban green spaces influence community health?
Impact of shift work on physical wellbeing.
Potential risks of genetically modified foods.
Food deserts and their effect on community wellbeing.
How does the gig economy affect workers' health?
The role of bees in global health.
Mental health implications of cyberbullying among teenagers.
Antibiotic overuse in livestock.
Global consequences of increasing screen time.
Universal basic income on public health.
Addressing intimate partner violence as a public health issue.
Health literacy and its influence on global community.
Exploring the effect of noise pollution on human health.

Unique Public Health Research Topics

Do you want to stand out from the crowd with your public health research? Check these authentic research topics on public health that will put a spotlight on your hard work.

Addressing loneliness as a public health issue.
The role of urban farming in promoting food security.
Exploring the health effects of microaggressions.
How does light pollution affect humans?
Global strategies for dealing with "brain drain."
The role of architecture in hospital infection control.
Can we design cities to be healthier?
What are some negative effects of "fast fashion?"
Is there a link between deforestation and disease outbreaks?
Implications of 3D printed food.
A look into the long-term effects of forest fires.
Can providing universal internet access improve public health?
Studying implications of deep-sea mining.
Effects of climate change on water-borne diseases.
How does air travel influence global health?

>> View more: Healthcare Research Topics

Controversial Public Health Research Topics

Public health, being as diverse and ever-evolving as it is, certainly has its fair share of topics that stir up debate. They might make you sweat a bit, but they definitely add a kick. Buckle up and get ready to dive into these controversial public health research ideas:

Should vaccination be mandatory for everyone?
Are digital health records an invasion of privacy?
The debate over the global effects of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Do energy drinks pose a significant risk?
Are alternative medicines effective or just a placebo effect?
Is healthcare a right or a privilege?
Implications of animal testing in global medical research.
Should junk food be taxed to combat obesity?
Use and abuse of ADHD medications.
Pros and cons of medical marijuana.
Is the anti-vaccination movement a public risk?
Impact of consumerism on healthcare quality.
Implications of surveillance in disease control.
Debates on the allocation of resources in a pandemic.
Should doctors be allowed to go on strike?

Public Health Research Topic Ideas for Students

Regardless of whether you are a beginner undergraduate student or an experienced doctoral candidate, the cornerstone of a successful project is an engaging topic. We have compiled a list of public health research question ideas suitable for every academic level. Choose the one you like and consider consulting with professional college paper writers to get expert help.

Public Health Research Topics for High School

High school students are required to carry out both analysis and research. But compared to other academic levels, it shouldn't be too extensive. We've curated a collection of researchable topics in public health that strike a balance between complexity and analysis. So, equip yourself with the spirit of inquiry and let's explore these ideas.

Local impact of poor air quality on public health.
Reasons for the rise in teenage smoking rates.
Analyzing strategies to reduce youth substance abuse.
What are some effective strategies for preventing teen pregnancies?
The role of school-based health education in improving public wellbeing.
What is the relationship between poverty and obesity?
What are some ways to reduce food insecurity among youth?
The correlation between school meals and childhood obesity.
Importance of school nurses in promoting public health.
The role of public health standards in preventing infectious diseases.
The impact of surgical site infections on public health.
The role of sanitation standards in mitigating public health risks.
School-based interventions for managing childhood diabetes.
Evaluating the effect of insurance reforms on healthcare accessibility.
An analysis of HIV/AIDS policies in South Africa.

Public Health Research Topics for College Students

Once you reach college, the research should be a bit more demanding. And so should public health topics for research papers! Here are some interesting ideas that require sufficient analysis and can amaze your professors.

Global efforts to reduce waterborne diseases.
Examining healthcare disparities in developing countries.
A look into methods for preventing cancer screenings disparities.
Evaluating public health interventions for managing diabetes.
Are alternative therapies an effective substitute for insulin?
How can public health education reduce maternal mortality?
How does telemedicine improve global healthcare delivery?
Malaria control in Sub-Saharan Africa: Progress and challenges.
Evaluating the efficacy of workplace wellness programs.
Assessing strategies to reduce suicide rates among youth.
Analyzing the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases with people.
Addressing malnutrition in children: A case study of Ethiopia.
The role of clean water access in public health in Bangladesh.
Obesity crisis in Mexico: A look into global implications.
How does Japan's aging population impact policies?

Public Health Research Questions

Now that you are in graduate school, you will be expected to come up with original research topics and explore them in-depth. Here are some creative public health research questions to motivate your advanced studies.

The role of social media in healthcare communication.
What role does mental health play in global population, and how can community programs address this?
How effective are public health campaigns in reducing the prevalence of smoking?
How has the COVID-19 pandemic shaped future public health strategies?
How can community initiatives combat the opioid crisis?
How does access to green space impact community health?
How can education programs effectively address the rise of sexually transmitted diseases in adolescents?
How can global systems improve to better accommodate people with disabilities?
What strategies can be employed to combat health disparities in racial and ethnic minorities?
How can public initiatives improve maternal health in low-income regions?
What are some effects of plastic pollution on people and how can it be mitigated?
Assessing the importance of public health standards in food industries.
The role of robotic surgery in improving public health outcomes.
Importance of standard guidelines in managing epidemics.
Effects of urbanization on residents of Brazil.

Public Health Research Proposal Topics

As a university student in public health, you will be expected to come up with original public health research proposal topics. Here are some thesis ideas and public health dissertation topics you can choose for a lengthy study.

Evaluating the role of immunization programs in mitigating childhood diseases.
A comparative study on the impact of public and private systems on population health.
How does healthcare reform influence access to care for low-income populations.
Evaluating the impact of the built environment on community health outcomes.
Are e-health services effective in rural settings?
Exploring the efficacy of school-based health education in India.
An analysis of public health initiatives to combat diabetes in Africa.
Assessing the benefits and risks associated with telemedicine.
Examining the impact of global warming on public health outcomes.
How does the use of mobile-health apps improve patient engagement?
A look into methods to reduce healthcare disparities in LGBTQ+ populations.
Assessing strategies to reduce homelessness and its impact on public health.
What changes are needed to improve global pandemic preparedness?
How can we reduce environmental health risks associated with industrialization?
Exploring factors that influence infant care practices in low-income regions.

>> Read more: How to Write a Research Proposal

Bottom Line on Public Health Topics for Research Papers

With these ideas in mind, we hope you will be able to craft an outstanding paper that can add value to the global domain. Choose the most appropriate research topic about public health and don't forget to credit your sources as you write. Feel free to look through our blog to find more inspirational ideas, starting from psychology research paper topics to business research topics .

Reach out to our professional academic service and buy a research paper from our expert writers. We guarantee a unique, thoroughly researched, and perfectly formatted paper that will boost your grades and save you time.

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Exploring community health nursing research topics: a comprehensive guide for nursing students, carla johnson.

August 25, 2023
Essay Topics and Ideas

Community health nursing is a dynamic and vital field within the nursing profession, focused on providing holistic care to populations within a defined community. This specialized branch of nursing goes beyond individual patient care, extending its reach to families, groups, and entire communities. This article will delve into community health nursing, explore its significance, and provide valuable resources for nursing students to engage in research, evidence-based practice (EBP) projects, capstone projects, research paper topics, research questions, and essay ideas.

What You'll Learn

Understanding Community Health Nursing: A Holistic Approach

Community health nursing emphasizes preventive care , health promotion, and disease prevention within a specific community. This holistic approach involves understanding the community’s unique needs, cultures, and challenges to provide targeted interventions that improve health outcomes. As nursing students, you will find this field to be a gateway to understanding the broader healthcare landscape and the interconnectedness of various factors that influence health.

Community health nursing research topics

PICOT Questions on Community Health Nursing

P: Adult population in psychiatric care ; I: Implementation of daily RS questionnaire; C: Units without the daily survey; O: Reduction in utilization of restraint and seclusion; T: 6 months. Can the implementation of a daily RS (Restraint and Seclusion) questionnaire for adults in psychiatric care lead to a significant decrease in the utilization of restraint and seclusion within a period of 6 months?
P: Pediatric population in school settings; I: Introduction of daily exercise regimen; C: Schools without daily exercise; O: Improvement in BMI and overall fitness; T: 1 academic year. Does introducing a daily exercise regimen in school settings for pediatric populations result in a noticeable improvement in BMI and overall fitness over the course of 1 academic year?
P: Elderly population in assisted living facilities; I: Implementation of fall prevention program; C: Facilities without fall prevention program; O: Reduction in fall-related injuries; T: 1 year. Is there a significant reduction in fall-related injuries among the elderly residing in assisted living facilities after the implementation of a comprehensive fall prevention program within 1 year?
P: Low-income pregnant women; I: Provision of prenatal education classes; C: Those without access to prenatal education; O: Increase in prenatal knowledge and healthier pregnancy outcomes; T: Throughout gestation. Can providing prenatal education classes to low-income pregnant women lead to increased prenatal knowledge and improved pregnancy outcomes when compared to those without access to such education?
P: Diabetic population within the community; I: Establishment of a mobile diabetic clinic; C: No mobile clinic available; O: Enhanced diabetic management and reduced hospitalizations; T: 2 years. Does the establishment of a mobile diabetic clinic within the community lead to better diabetic management and a decrease in hospitalizations over a span of 2 years?
P: Adolescent population in schools; I: Implementation of comprehensive sexual education; C: Schools with standard sexual education; O: Reduction in teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs); T: 3 years. Over a period of 3 years, does the implementation of comprehensive sexual education in schools result in a significant decrease in the rates of teen pregnancies and STIs among adolescents compared to schools with standard sexual education?
P: Homeless population; I: Launch of mobile healthcare unit; C: No access to regular healthcare; O: Improvement in overall health status and decrease in emergency room visits; T: 1 year. Can the introduction of a mobile healthcare unit for the homeless population improve their overall health status and a noticeable reduction in emergency room visits within a year?
P: Rural elderly population; I: Initiation of telehealth services ; C: Lack of telehealth services; O: Enhanced access to healthcare and better management of chronic conditions; T: 18 months. Does the introduction of telehealth services for the rural elderly population lead to increased access to healthcare services and improved management of chronic conditions over the course of 18 months?
P: New mothers; I: Implementation of postpartum support groups; C: No postpartum support groups available; O: Reduction in postpartum depression rates and improved maternal well-being; T: 1 year. Can the implementation of postpartum support groups for new mothers lead to a significant reduction in postpartum depression rates and an overall improvement in maternal well-being within a year?
P: LGBTQ+ youth; I: Creating safe spaces in schools; C: Absence of designated safe spaces; O: Decreased mental health challenges and higher academic achievement; T: Ongoing. Does creating safe spaces within schools for LGBTQ+ youth lead to a noticeable decrease in mental health challenges and a rise in academic achievement over an ongoing period?

Evidence-Based Practice Projects Ideas

Evaluating the effectiveness of community-wide vaccination drives in reducing vaccine-preventable diseases.
Assessing the impact of a smoke-free policy in public spaces on community members’ respiratory health.
Investigating the outcomes of a nutrition education program in improving dietary habits among low-income families.
Analyzing the effectiveness of a community-based mental health awareness campaign in reducing stigma and increasing help-seeking behavior.
Exploring the outcomes of a diabetes management intervention using mobile health apps in urban communities.
Studying the effects of a community gardening initiative on physical activity levels and nutrition awareness.
Investigating the utilization and impact of telemedicine services in remote rural areas.
Assessing the benefits of a community fitness program on cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a school-based anti-bullying campaign on students’ mental health.
Analyzing the outcomes of a community-driven initiative to increase access to clean drinking water in underserved areas.

Nursing Capstone Project Ideas

Developing a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan for a local community.
Designing and implementing a culturally sensitive prenatal care program for immigrant populations.
Creating a curriculum for training community health workers in identifying and addressing social determinants of health.
Establishing a support network for caregivers of elderly individuals living at home.
Designing a mental health first aid training program for community leaders and volunteers.
Implementing a community-based program to promote physical activity among children with obesity.
Creating a resource guide for LGBTQ+ youth to access healthcare services without discrimination.
Developing a community-wide initiative to combat opioid misuse and overdose.
Establishing a telehealth platform for remote health consultations in underserved regions.
Designing a comprehensive sexual education curriculum for high schools to address varying cultural norms.

Nursing Research Paper Topics

The impact of community health nursing interventions on reducing health disparities .
Exploring the role of community health nurses in disaster response and recovery.
Analyzing the effectiveness of school-based health clinics in improving student health outcomes.
Investigating the barriers and facilitators of healthcare access in underserved rural communities.
The role of community health nursing in promoting healthy aging and elderly care.
Addressing mental health stigma through community-based interventions led by nurses.
Analyzing the outcomes of community health education programs on reducing tobacco use .
Exploring the relationship between community engagement and positive maternal-child health outcomes.
The effectiveness of telehealth services in bridging healthcare gaps in remote areas.
Investigating the impact of community health nursing in preventing and managing chronic diseases.

Community Health Nursing Research Questions

How does the presence of community health nurses influence health outcomes in underserved urban neighborhoods?
What are the key components of successful school-based vaccination programs , and how do they impact disease prevention?
How do cultural competence and sensitivity affect the effectiveness of community health nursing interventions?
What are the main challenges community health nurses face in addressing social determinants of health ?
How does community engagement contribute to the sustainability of community health initiatives led by nurses?
What strategies effectively promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma within communities?
How do telehealth services improve access to healthcare for individuals in geographically isolated regions?
What role do community health nurses play in detecting and managing chronic diseases ?
How do community health interventions impact healthcare utilization patterns and costs?
What are the outcomes of community health nursing programs focused on improving maternal and child health?

Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

The Role of Community Health Nursing in Promoting Population Health.
Addressing Health Disparities: The Impact of Community Health Nursing.
Community-Based Approaches to Preventing Teenage Pregnancy .
Telehealth: Bridging Healthcare Gaps in Underserved Communities.
Cultural Competence in Community Health Nursing: Challenges and Strategies.
Disaster Preparedness and Response: The Critical Role of Community Health Nurses.
The Influence of Social Determinants of Health on Community Health Nursing Interventions.
Community Health Education: Strategies for Promoting Healthy Lifestyles.
Exploring the Connection Between Mental Health and Community Well-being.
Innovations in Community Health Nursing: Harnessing Technology for Better Outcomes.

As nursing students, you are poised to become the next generation of community health nurses, armed with the knowledge and skills to impact the health and well-being of diverse populations positively. Community health nursing offers numerous opportunities for research, practice, and advocacy. By delving into PICOT questions, evidence-based practice projects, capstone projects, research paper topics, and research questions, you can deepen your understanding of this vital field and contribute to its growth. Don’t hesitate to seek our writing services if you need assistance with your community health nursing assignments or essays. We understand the demands of nursing education and are here to support you in your academic journey. Your dedication to improving community health is commendable, and together, we can pave the way for healthier, more vibrant communities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Community Health Nursing

Is community health nursing the same as nursing? Community health nursing is a specialized branch of nursing that focuses on providing holistic care to populations within specific communities. While nursing is a broader field encompassing various specialties, community health nursing is distinct in its emphasis on preventive care and health promotion within communities.
What are the qualifications of a community health nursing? To practice community health nursing, one typically needs a registered nurse (RN) license. Many community health nurses also hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, and advanced practice may require additional education such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in community health.
Do community health nurses work in hospitals? While community health nurses primarily work in community settings like public health departments, schools, and clinics, they can also collaborate with hospitals to provide education, preventive care, and continuity of care to patients transitioning from hospital to home.
Can a community health nurse become a doctor? Community health nurses can certainly pursue further education and career advancement, but the path to becoming a doctor is different. Becoming a doctor requires completing medical school and earning a medical degree (MD) or a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) degree, whereas community health nursing involves nursing education and training.

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Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

What is a nursing research paper.

What They Include
Choosing a Topic
Best Nursing Research Topics
Research Paper Writing Tips

Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

Writing a research paper is a massive task that involves careful organization, critical analysis, and a lot of time. Some nursing students are natural writers, while others struggle to select a nursing research topic, let alone write about it.

If you're a nursing student who dreads writing research papers, this article may help ease your anxiety. We'll cover everything you need to know about writing nursing school research papers and the top topics for nursing research.

Continue reading to make your paper-writing jitters a thing of the past.

A nursing research paper is a work of academic writing composed by a nurse or nursing student. The paper may present information on a specific topic or answer a question.

During LPN/LVN and RN programs, most papers you write focus on learning to use research databases, evaluate appropriate resources, and format your writing with APA style. You'll then synthesize your research information to answer a question or analyze a topic.

BSN , MSN , Ph.D., and DNP programs also write nursing research papers. Students in these programs may also participate in conducting original research studies.

Writing papers during your academic program improves and develops many skills, including the ability to:

Select nursing topics for research
Conduct effective research
Analyze published academic literature
Format and cite sources
Synthesize data
Organize and articulate findings

About Nursing Research Papers

When do nursing students write research papers.

You may need to write a research paper for any of the nursing courses you take. Research papers help develop critical thinking and communication skills. They allow you to learn how to conduct research and critically review publications.

That said, not every class will require in-depth, 10-20-page papers. The more advanced your degree path, the more you can expect to write and conduct research. If you're in an associate or bachelor's program, you'll probably write a few papers each semester or term.

Do Nursing Students Conduct Original Research?

Most of the time, you won't be designing, conducting, and evaluating new research. Instead, your projects will focus on learning the research process and the scientific method. You'll achieve these objectives by evaluating existing nursing literature and sources and defending a thesis.

However, many nursing faculty members do conduct original research. So, you may get opportunities to participate in, and publish, research articles.

Example Research Project Scenario:

In your maternal child nursing class, the professor assigns the class a research paper regarding developmentally appropriate nursing interventions for the pediatric population. While that may sound specific, you have almost endless opportunities to narrow down the focus of your writing.

You could choose pain intervention measures in toddlers. Conversely, you can research the effects of prolonged hospitalization on adolescents' social-emotional development.

What Does a Nursing Research Paper Include?

Your professor should provide a thorough guideline of the scope of the paper. In general, an undergraduate nursing research paper will consist of:

Introduction : A brief overview of the research question/thesis statement your paper will discuss. You can include why the topic is relevant.

Body : This section presents your research findings and allows you to synthesize the information and data you collected. You'll have a chance to articulate your evaluation and answer your research question. The length of this section depends on your assignment.

Conclusion : A brief review of the information and analysis you presented throughout the body of the paper. This section is a recap of your paper and another chance to reassert your thesis.

The best advice is to follow your instructor's rubric and guidelines. Remember to ask for help whenever needed, and avoid overcomplicating the assignment!

How to Choose a Nursing Research Topic

The sheer volume of prospective nursing research topics can become overwhelming for students. Additionally, you may get the misconception that all the 'good' research ideas are exhausted. However, a personal approach may help you narrow down a research topic and find a unique angle.

Writing your research paper about a topic you value or connect with makes the task easier. Additionally, you should consider the material's breadth. Topics with plenty of existing literature will make developing a research question and thesis smoother.

Finally, feel free to shift gears if necessary, especially if you're still early in the research process. If you start down one path and have trouble finding published information, ask your professor if you can choose another topic.

The Best Research Topics for Nursing Students

You have endless subject choices for nursing research papers. This non-exhaustive list just scratches the surface of some of the best nursing research topics.

1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics

Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties.
Discuss the impact of evidence-based respiratory interventions on patient outcomes in critical care settings.
Explore the effectiveness of pain management protocols in pediatric patients.

2. Community Health Nursing Research Topics

Assess the impact of nurse-led diabetes education in Type II Diabetics.
Analyze the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to healthcare services.

3. Nurse Education Research Topics

Review the effectiveness of simulation-based learning to improve nursing students' clinical skills.
Identify methods that best prepare pre-licensure students for clinical practice.
Investigate factors that influence nurses to pursue advanced degrees.
Evaluate education methods that enhance cultural competence among nurses.
Describe the role of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and burnout among nurses.

4. Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

Explore patient outcomes related to nurse staffing levels in acute behavioral health settings.
Assess the effectiveness of mental health education among emergency room nurses .
Explore de-escalation techniques that result in improved patient outcomes.
Review the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in improving patient outcomes.

5. Pediatric Nursing Research Topics

Assess the impact of parental involvement in pediatric asthma treatment adherence.
Explore challenges related to chronic illness management in pediatric patients.
Review the role of play therapy and other therapeutic interventions that alleviate anxiety among hospitalized children.

6. The Nursing Profession Research Topics

Analyze the effects of short staffing on nurse burnout .
Evaluate factors that facilitate resiliency among nursing professionals.
Examine predictors of nurse dissatisfaction and burnout.
Posit how nursing theories influence modern nursing practice.

Tips for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

The best nursing research advice we can provide is to follow your professor's rubric and instructions. However, here are a few study tips for nursing students to make paper writing less painful:

Avoid procrastination: Everyone says it, but few follow this advice. You can significantly lower your stress levels if you avoid procrastinating and start working on your project immediately.

Plan Ahead: Break down the writing process into smaller sections, especially if it seems overwhelming. Give yourself time for each step in the process.

Research: Use your resources and ask for help from the librarian or instructor. The rest should come together quickly once you find high-quality studies to analyze.

Outline: Create an outline to help you organize your thoughts. Then, you can plug in information throughout the research process.

Clear Language: Use plain language as much as possible to get your point across. Jargon is inevitable when writing academic nursing papers, but keep it to a minimum.

Cite Properly: Accurately cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Nursing research papers will almost always implement APA style. Check out the resources below for some excellent reference management options.

Revise and Edit: Once you finish your first draft, put it away for one to two hours or, preferably, a whole day. Once you've placed some space between you and your paper, read through and edit for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Reading your essay out loud is an excellent way to check for the 'flow' of the paper.

Helpful Nursing Research Writing Resources:

Purdue OWL (Online writing lab) has a robust APA guide covering everything you need about APA style and rules.

Grammarly helps you edit grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Upgrading to a paid plan will get you plagiarism detection, formatting, and engagement suggestions. This tool is excellent to help you simplify complicated sentences.

Mendeley is a free reference management software. It stores, organizes, and cites references. It has a Microsoft plug-in that inserts and correctly formats APA citations.

Don't let nursing research papers scare you away from starting nursing school or furthering your education. Their purpose is to develop skills you'll need to be an effective nurse: critical thinking, communication, and the ability to review published information critically.

Choose a great topic and follow your teacher's instructions; you'll finish that paper in no time.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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244 Brilliant Health Research Paper Topics

Health is one of the core tenets of human survival. It is impossible to go a day without hearing or reading news on various aspects of human health. With the global coronavirus pandemic, health discussions have become more intensified in the recent past. Nonetheless, this is not a guarantee that you will find useful health-related topics for the research paper. That is why we have put together this informative article to help you identify quality writing ideas for your health paper. But first,

What Is A Health Research Paper?

It is an academic piece of writing that deals with diseases, their causes, prevention, and cure. Health is a complex subject with various dimensions – it is a vital science beyond the normal check-up and diagnosis in your local clinic.

To have a captivating research paper in health, you need to be well-versed in this field’s different concepts. As if that is not enough, you also have to relate how man’s different activities contribute to health problems or solutions. Knowing how to write health papers will therefore take time and effort. It is not an easy task to write a research paper for a good grade. It is not like a normal high school essay where you will tell the tutor about yourself and score highly – no! Students will have to involve in intensive research to come up with captivating health research papers. Students pursuing health-related courses in college or university sometimes spend countless research hours coming up with health topics for research papers. So, d on’t be afraid to get research paper help from our professional writers. However, our professional writing experts have collated a list of interesting health topics for your inspiration.

Easy Health Related Topics For Research Paper

Investigate the dietary requirements of a patient suffering from cancer
The role of the World Health Organization in determining health policies
How to care for a diabetic patient at home
Why most people prefer seeking advanced healthcare abroad
Why is heart surgery the most complicated of all?
Why people should go for regular check-ups whether or not they are sick
The role of the media in contributing to the spread of fake information on health
Is it advisable to have a family doctor?
Adverse effects of X-rays on the human body
Why pregnant women should deliver in health facilities
The impact of political decisions on the state of healthcare in a country
Why mothers should be informed on the critical role of immunizations to children
Effects of taking over-the-counter prescribed drugs

Health Research Topics On COVID-19

Why ventilation is necessary for curtailing the spread of coronavirus
Discuss challenges in the development of the coronavirus vaccines
Why it is necessary to wear a mask at all times while in public places
What is the risk of adolescents with no underlying health conditions contracting coronavirus?
Analyze why there are many asymptomatic COVID-19 related patients
The impact of technology on the development of coronavirus vaccines
How long should one take before going for the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Discuss the essence of washing hands every time in fighting the coronavirus
What properties of soap make it suitable for fighting coronavirus?
Should children under ten years receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
The implication of opening learning institutions on the spread of the virus
The role of the media in helping people make informed decisions about COVID-19
Why it is necessary to have a sanitizer in the fight against coronavirus

Interesting Health Topics

The role of personal hygiene in preventing bacterial infections
Should diabetic patients inject insulin by themselves?
The impact of advertisements on medical products
Why research is necessary for the development of drugs
Does testing drugs on rats affect their efficiency in human beings?
The crucial role of a personal First Aid kit at home
What is the first step in treating a bruised ankle?
Effects of using a wheelchair on a person’s growth and development
Discuss the relationship between doctors and glasses
What is the maximum amount of time that one should spend in a critical care unit?
The role of technology in intensive care units: A case of specialized life-support machines
Discuss the health benefits of circumcision at a young age
How to prevent eye strain when using a computer for long hours

Nursing Health Related Topics For Research Paper

Challenges faced by nurses in caring for coronavirus patients
The impact of night shifts on the effectiveness of nurses
Are robots able to supplement the role of nurses in infectious disease units?
What is the place of emotions in the care of critically ill patients?
Evaluate the susceptibility of Europeans to Malaria through mosquito bites
Examine the effectiveness of caring for patients from their homes
Are the number of years spent in a nursing school effectively to gain the necessary nursing experience?
Latest nursing technologies that are transforming the nursing sector
What is the implication of a male nurse attending to a female patient?
Who should prescribe treatment for the patient between the doctor and the nurse?
How nurses handle psychological trauma after attending to patients
Effects of watching too much on the health of a person
Discuss the differences in nursing practices in developing and developed nations

Mental Health Research Paper Topics

How does what one watches affect his/her mental health?
The role of stigmatization in derailing one’s mental capability
How to deal with mental lapses during the adolescent stage
What are the medical solutions to mental problems related to break-ups?
The role of counseling psychologists in preventing suicide cases
Causes of aggressive behavior among people who watch wrestling
Do sleeping patterns relate to mental health?
How often should people go for mental check-ups?
Do people who speak too much have mental problems at a time?
Why staying lonely can lead to depression.
The effects of watching horror movies on causing anxiety and fear
Why it is necessary to socialize as compared to online interactions
Discuss the implication of family disputes on the mental state of the children

Women’s Health Research Paper Topics

The role of menstruation in women
What causes mood swings and attitudes among women?
Analyze the various post-natal care practices for women
Compare and contrast the health implications of cesarean surgery versus normal birth
The implication of body exercises for women
Why most women are susceptible to cold conditions as compared to men
Discuss the psychology behind women and long hair
The impact of strenuous labor on the health of women
Why is the number of women infected with coronavirus less than that of men?
The essence of calcium for breastfeeding women
What is the impact of vitamin supplements on women after delivery?
Discuss the differences in muscle development between women and men
Why women must have more fat than men

Hot Healthcare Research Paper Topics

Effects of eating disorders on the development of a person
Causes of unhealthy eating habits among teenagers
The role of regular deworming in maintain a healthy appetite
Dangers of excessive alcohol consumption to a person’s eyes
How does smoking affect the weight of a person?
Medical procedures to dealing with addictions and disorders
The impact of being on ventilators for long
How does surgery affect one’s vision and thinking?
Effects of movies on the psychology of people who are to undergo surgery
The role of virtual simulations in the study of medicine
Are online classes effective for training competent healthcare personnel?
The effects of culture and traditions on modern medicine
How government policies affect the development of healthcare systems

Interesting Health Topics To Research In College

Discuss the long-term consequences of being in a coma
Investigate the factors that motivate students to take up medical courses
Impact of intermittent fasting on a person with a health complication
What causes allergies in patients with Asthma?
The role of mass vaccination in curbing the spread of a health pandemic
How often should one go for a dental check-up?
Why participating in sports and games is essential for a healthy lifestyle
How has yellow journalism affected the mental health of many?
Role of morning runs in preventing against lifestyle diseases
Western cultures that contribute to health complications
Is it advisable for pregnant women to go for baby scanning?
The impact of stereotyping in healthcare practice
The role of stress in compulsive sweating and eating

Convincing Health Topics To Write About

How clinical practitioners determine nutrition care for patients
Differences in the care of outpatients and inpatients
The role of the American Medical Association in determining health policies
How to deal with bad breath and decaying teeth
Effects of blood donation on the donor’s health
Discuss the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among the elite
Why evidence-based medicine is necessary for treating diseases
Causes of inflammatory bowel disease among women
Why some people have developed insulin resistance
How to maintain a healthy lung
The role of the National Cancer Institute in developing treatment procedures
The effects of premature puberty on the development of a person
Discuss the health benefits of watermelon seeds

Manageable Health Project Topics

Causes of the urinary tract infections
Why it isn’t easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle in urban areas
The role of Vitamin D supplements in strengthening the body’s immunity
How fish and seafood recipes help to maintain a healthy body
The role of global warming in advancing the spread of diseases
Discuss the relationship between genetics and congenital disabilities
Factors that determine effective rehabilitation after surgery
Health effects of donation and transplantation of body organs
What are the procedures involved in complementary and alternative therapies?
Discuss the prevalence of deafness and other communication disorders
What are the health implications of household air pollution?
Evaluate the various neurological and mental disorders
Are tobacco control policies sufficient enough?

Public Health Topics For Research Paper

Discuss the effectiveness of the public health standards in the United States
What are some of the social determinants of health?
Compare and contrast health services and systems between the United States and the UK.
How do housing and communities affect public health?
Enhancing healthy lifestyles among communities
The role of the Smoke-free 2025 Action Plan in clean air
How to manage drug and substance misuse among communities
Discuss how racism is affecting the delivery of health services
Have countries neglected immigrant health-related policies?
Injury and violence prevention policies in the United States
The role of public health accreditation agencies in maintaining high health standards
School-based healthcare practices during the coronavirus pandemic
The role of healthy housing in preventing the spread of diseases

Controversial Health Topics For Research Paper

Do traditional health practices affect modern health systems?
The implication of plastic surgery for beauty standards
Does going vegan improve a person’s health?
Is body healthy for women?
What sets the mark for healthy food?
Is it possible to maintain healthy psychological health in the modern world?
Are anxiety and depression serious health threats?
Can the coronavirus kill persons who have no underlying health conditions?
Is it possible to develop a vaccine under one year?
Is chemotherapy doing more harm than good for cancer patients?
Does alternative medicine work?
Are we experiencing the rise of epidemics during the 21 st century?
Is it ethical to carry out organ harvesting and transplantation?

Health Informatics Research Paper Topics

The role of telemedicine in combating serious health problems
Helpful infographics that visually illustrate solutions to prevailing health conditions
Smartphone applications that are helping people to keep fit in the 21 st century
A case study of diagnostic tools used by clinicians on their mobile devices
Evaluate the growing presence of mobile technology in the healthcare field
Effective healthcare IT management practices in the information age
The impact of health informatics on the privacy of patients
How to transform health through innovative IT solutions
Discuss the incorporation of health informatics in developing countries
The role of health informatics in providing accountable healthcare
How electronic health records are enhancing service delivery in the health sector
The role of health information exchange on interoperability of hospitals
Dealing with privacy and security issues in rural health IT

Top-Notch Health-Related Research Topics

How to detect misleading information related to coronavirus
Health practices that improve the lifespan of citizens through the organized efforts of society
The role of physical activity in determining mental health
How the Internet of Medical things is transforming the health sector
Evaluate some of the AI-enabled technologies used in neurodegenerative health complications
Discuss the role of biomedical sensor data in diagnosing a patient
The role of machine learning in enhancing the study of medicine
Intelligent monitoring technologies used in intensive care units
Analyze the strides made in the digital healthcare system
How data- and model-driven intelligent healthcare systems are saving lives
How to use big data analytics in healthcare systems
Discuss some of the non-medical analytic processes
Biological mechanisms and criteria for treating infectious diseases

Creative Public Health Research Topic Ideas

The role of sexual education in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS
How medical campaigns on TV can help spread community awareness
The role of radio in advancing knowledge on coronavirus
Why people are so much concerned about reproductive health
How to maintain reproductive health during menopause
Health issues related to puberty in the society
The role of conferences and symposia on public health
Analyze the growing cases of food poisoning resulting from fast food restaurants
Why people are not going for cancer screening procedures
The role of teaching the general public on First Aid procedures for accidents and minor injuries
Health care practices for the skin, hair, and nails
Discuss how flu, cold, and sore throat symptoms are used to identify a potential coronavirus patient
How the use of the internet and computer games is contributing to health problems among teenagers

Additional Medical Controversies Topics

How should doctors handle patients with terminal illnesses?
Should parents decide what happens to unborn kids with incurable diseases?
Is it ethical to test drugs and vaccines on animals?
Does a person have the right to determine what happens to his/her organs after death?
Is it ethical for parents to design the traits they want for their future babies?
Where do we draw the line for patient/doctor confidentiality?
Does the fetus have the right when it comes to abortion?
Should countries adopt medical marijuana?
Is there a relationship between poor health and poverty?
Is the United States justified in imposing high healthcare costs?
Does abortion affect the mental health of the perpetrator
Should doctors release the medical records of patients to the police?
Should organ donation be a personal choice?

Health Argument Topics

Is it right to sell body organs to the highest bidder?
Should animals die through experimental research so that man can live longer?
Who is to blame for the adverse effects of experiments on animals
What happens in the case of prenatal illnesses?
Is euthanasia ‘good death?’
Disposing of COVID-19 bodies in mass graves
Should doctors compensate patients in the case of wrong surgeries?
Use of illegal drugs for medicinal purposes
Role of government bodies in setting medical standards
Is Cuba a role model in advanced medical research?
Are babies from test tubes real?
Religious beliefs on vaccination
Are antibiotics more harmful to society?

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics

Impact of placing the elderly in elderly care
Are female psychologists more understanding enough?
Technology and mental health
Working hours and mental stability of nurses
Vaccination and mental health
Effects of stem cell brain injections
The psychological perspective of Medical Termination of Pregnancy
Effect of TV commercials for alcohol
Legalization of psychedelic drugs
Medicinal cannabis and mental health
Medical science and prolonging life
Addiction to painkillers
Circumcision of infants

Health And Fitness Topics

Impact of water aerobics
Frequency of workouts
Should fitness exercises be done in gyms or at home?
Duration of workouts
Modifications to workouts
Bike riding and burning calories
Workouts and gaining weight
Developing a training plan
The role of Yoga in health
The essence of cardio exercises

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What are the trending topics in Public Health and related disciplines?

You can identify some of the most discussed and influential topics with the help of Altmetric attention scores, which take into account several outlets including social media, news articles, and policy documents.

Drawing from a selection of Public Health and Medicine journals, we have compiled a list of the articles that have been mentioned the most over the past few months.

Discover the articles that are trending right now, and catch up on current topics in Public Health and related disciplines. We will update our collection every few weeks; come back to this page to be on top of the latest conversations in Public Health and Medicine. Previously featured articles are listed here .

You can also sign up for e-alerts to make sure you never miss the latest research from our journals.

*Last updated October 2021*

Age and Ageing

Alcohol and alcoholism, american journal of epidemiology, annals of work exposures and health, epidemiologic reviews, european journal of public health, family practice, health education research, health policy and planning, health promotion international, international health, international journal of epidemiology, international journal for quality in health care, journal of public health, journal of travel medicine, journal of tropical pediatrics, nicotine & tobacco research, transactions of the royal society of tropical medicine & hygiene, behaviour change interventions to increase physical activity in hospitalised patients: a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression.

There is moderate-certainty evidence that behaviour change interventions are associated with increased physical activity levels among older hospitalised patients.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Alcohol and Other Substance Use Disorders in Young Adulthood: Findings from a Canadian Nationally Representative Survey

This study from Canada found that one in three young adults with ADHD had a lifetime alcohol use disorder, and that young adults with ADHD were also three times more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Targeted outreach and interventions for this extremely vulnerable population are warranted.

Expiring Eviction Moratoriums and COVID-19 Incidence and Mortality

According to this study, resuming evictions in summer 2020 was associated with increased COVID-19 incidence and mortality in US states, with an estimated 433,700 excess cases and 10,700 excess deaths. Explore more research on COVID-19 in a curated collection from the AJE: https://academic.oup.com/aje/pages/covid-19

The Development of a Covid-19 Control Measures Risk Matrix for Occupational Hygiene Protective Measures

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) developed a control banding matrix for employers and others to help assess the risks of COVID-19 infection, and calls for further work to validate the reliability of the tool. Browse the Annals' collection on occupational hygiene for virus protection: https://academic.oup.com/annweh/pages/covid-19

Immunization to Protect the US Armed Forces: Heritage, Current Practice, and Prospects

In 1777, George Washington ordered a mandatory inoculation program for his troops, in what would become the first mass immunization mandate in the US. This archival article discussess and contextualizes immunization practices for US Armed Forces.

Does face mask use elicit risk-compensation? Quasi-experimental evidence from Denmark during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Responding to concerns that that face mask use could elicit a false sense of security and lead to riskier behaviours, this study from Denmark found that mask use overall correlated positively with protective behaviours.

Evidence reversals in primary care research: a study of randomized controlled trials

While medical practice is often undermined by subsequent investigation, randomized trials relevant to primary care generally hold up over time.

Social media influencers can be used to deliver positive information about the flu vaccine: findings from a multi-year study

This study shows the potential for using social media influencers to inspire positive engagements on pro-vaccine health messaging. For more content on accurate information's importance for public health, browse the latest article collection from HER: https://academic.oup.com/her/pages/covid-19

COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plans from 106 countries: a review from a health systems resilience perspective

Current emergency response planning does not have adequate coverage to maintain health systems functionality for essential health service delivery alongside emergency-specific interventions and healthcare. The findings from this study can help align health emergency planning with broader population health needs.

Rise and demise: a case study of public health nutrition in Queensland, Australia, over three decades

This case study shows that that ongoing efforts are needed to improve sustainability of nutrition policy and programmes to address all diet-related diseases.

Institutional and behaviour-change interventions to support COVID-19 public health measures: a review by the Lancet Commission Task Force on public health measures to suppress the pandemic

This review article outlines evidence for a range of institutional measures and behaviour-change measures, and highlights research and knowledge gaps.

Quantifying impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic through life-expectancy losses: a population-level study of 29 countries

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered significant mortality increases in 2020 of a magnitude not witnessed since World War II in Western Europe or the breakup of the Soviet Union in Eastern Europe.

Gender in the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) Checklist

The authors propose an update to the Equator’s Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist, with the aim of enhancing inclusivity.

Rate of reinfections after SARS-CoV-2 primary infection in the population of an Italian province: a cohort study

This study confirms previous findings on a low risk of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. If confirmed, these findings suggest that more targeted restriction policies can be applied to the subjects that recovered after a first infection. Read highly cited papers on COVID-19 from the Journal of Public Health: https://academic.oup.com/jpubhealth/pages/covid-19

The reproductive number of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 is far higher compared to the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 virus

Given the Delta variant's high reproductive number associated with higher transmissibility, in a context of globally still low vaccine coverage rates and lower vaccine effectiveness, public health and social measures will need to be substantially strengthened. A high reproductive number also means that much higher vaccine coverage rates need to be achieved compared to the originally assumed.

Neurological Complications of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Neurological complications are rare in children suffering from COVID-19. Still, these children are at risk of developing seizures and encephalopathy, more in those suffering from severe illness.

Reactions to Sales Restrictions on Flavored Vape Products or All Vape Products Among Young Adults in the United States

The researchers examined support for and perceived impact of e-cigarette sales restrictions. Findings suggest that bans on flavored vape products could have a positive impact on lower-risk users, but that other young adult user subgroups may not experience benefit.

Covid-19 and Health at Work

An editorial from the earlier stages of the pandemic highlights the importance of properly fitted respirators for worker safety and outlines occupational hygiene measures.

Lessons from the field: delivering trachoma mass drug administration safely in a COVID-19 context

Guidelines for safe mass drug administration for neglected tropical diseases were developed in a COVID-19 context; training and implementation were assessed through an observation checklist.

For more research on the impact of COVID-19 on NTDs, explore the March 2021 special issue: https://academic.oup.com/trstmh/issue/115/3

Previously featured

Age and frailty are independently associated with increased COVID-19 mortality and increased care needs in survivors: results of an international multi-centre study

Trajectories of Alcohol Use and Related Harms for Managed Alcohol Program Participants over 12 Months Compared with Local Controls: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Estimating the Effect of Social Distancing Interventions on COVID-19 in the United States

Selecting Controls for Minimizing SARS-CoV-2 Aerosol Transmission in Workplaces and Conserving Respiratory Protective Equipment Supplies

What Do We Know About the Association Between Firearm Legislation and Firearm-Related Injuries?

Denialism: what is it and how should scientists respond?

Acute cooling of the feet and the onset of common cold symptoms

The effect of falsely balanced reporting of the autism–vaccine controversy on vaccine safety perceptions and behavioral intentions

Climate change: an urgent priority for health policy and systems research

Power, control, communities and health inequalities I: theories, concepts and analytical frameworks

Research ethics in context: understanding the vulnerabilities, agency and resourcefulness of research participants living along the Thai–Myanmar border

Tobacco smoking and mortality among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults in Australia

Quality and safety in the time of Coronavirus: design better, learn faster

Years of life lost associated with COVID-19 deaths in the United States

In-flight transmission of SARS-CoV-2: a review of the attack rates and available data on the efficacy of face masks

Stability of the Initial Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder by DSM-5 in Children: A Short-Term Follow-Up Study

Impact of Tobacco Smoking on the Risk of COVID-19: A Large Scale Retrospective Cohort Study

Mental health of staff working in intensive care during COVID-19

The benefits and costs of social distancing in high- and low-income countries

A classification tree to assist with routine scoring of the Clinical Frailty Scale

Recent Advances in the Potential of Positive Allosteric Modulators of the GABAB Receptor to Treat Alcohol Use Disorder

The recent oubreak of smallpox in Meschede, West Germany

Your Hair or Your Service: An Issue of Faith for Sikh Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Emerging Infections: Pandemic Influenza

Identifying the views of adolescents in five European countries on the drivers of obesity using group model building

Novel multi-virus rapid respiratory microbiological point-of-care testing in primary care: a mixed-methods feasibility evaluation

Public health crisis in the refugee community: little change in social determinants of health preserve health disparities

In search of ‘community’: a critical review of community mental health services for women in African settings

COVID-19, a tale of two pandemics: novel coronavirus and fake news messaging

Disrupting vaccine logistics

Use of directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to identify confounders in applied health research: review and recommendations

Measurement and monitoring patient safety in prehospital care: a systematic review

Black Lives Matter protests and COVID-19 cases: relationship in two databases

The positive impact of lockdown in Wuhan on containing the COVID-19 outbreak in China

Severe Malnutrition and Anemia Are Associated with Severe COVID in Infants

A Single-Arm, Open-Label, Pilot, and Feasibility Study of a High Nicotine Strength E-Cigarette Intervention for Smoking Cessation or Reduction for People With Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders Who Smoke Cigarettes

Healthcare workers and protection against inhalable SARS-CoV-2 aerosols

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Emerging topics in public health research, research areas.

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy among Essential Workers Principal Investigator Friedman, Lee S Funding Source CDC/ NIOSH U60OH010905
Climate and Health Institute Principal Investigator Grossman, Elena Funding Source Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Project Duration 2022-07-18 — 2025-07-30
Methodology and Advanced Analytics Resource Center Principal Investigator Boodram, Basmattee Funding Source National Institute of Drug Abuse (National Institutes of Health)
Reducing Opioid Mortality in Illinois Principal Investigator Boodram, Basmattee Funding Source NIH/University of Chicago UG1DA050066 Project Duration 2019-07-15 — 2024-04-30
Student Driven Approach Utilizing Innovative Technology to End School Violence Principal Investigator Sambanis, Apostolis Funding Source US Department of Justice
Support for Worker Safety and Health, Safe Return to Work Policies, and to Mitigate or Prevent COVID19 Outbreaks Principal Investigator Friedman, Lee S Funding Source CDC/ NIOSH U60OH010905

14 Research Topics for Nursing Students

What are you struggling with in nursing school?

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As a nursing student, you will be expected to conduct research as part of your coursework. Choosing a research topic can be challenging, but it's essential to find a topic that is both interesting and relevant to your field. In this post, we'll explore some good research topics for nursing students and provide links to resources where you can learn more.

The effects of shift work on nurses' health and well-being Shift work is a common practice in nursing, but it can have negative effects on nurses' health and well-being. This research topic could explore the impact of shift work on sleep patterns, stress levels, and overall health.

Improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice Nurses play a crucial role in delivering evidence-based care. This research topic could explore the use of evidence-based practice to improve patient outcomes in a particular area, such as wound care or medication management.

Examining the role of the nurse in end-of-life care End-of-life care is an important aspect of nursing practice. This research topic could explore the nurse's role in providing end-of-life care, including ethical considerations and communication with patients and families.

Reducing healthcare-associated infections in hospitals Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a significant problem in hospitals. This research topic could explore strategies for reducing HAIs, such as hand hygiene and infection control measures.

Exploring the impact of cultural diversity on healthcare outcomes Cultural diversity is an essential aspect of nursing practice. This research topic could explore the impact of cultural diversity on healthcare outcomes, including patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment, and health disparities.

Investigating the use of technology in nursing practice Technology is increasingly being used in nursing practice. This research topic could explore the use of technology in areas such as telehealth, electronic health records, and medication administration.

Addressing healthcare disparities among underserved populations Healthcare disparities are a significant problem in the United States. This research topic could explore the factors contributing to healthcare disparities among underserved populations and strategies for addressing these disparities.

Improving pain management in hospitalized patients Pain management is an essential aspect of nursing practice. This research topic could explore strategies for improving pain management in hospitalized patients, including the use of non-pharmacological interventions.

Examining the effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing falls in hospitalized patients Falls are a significant problem in hospitals, particularly among older adults. This research topic could explore the effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing falls in hospitalized patients.

Investigating the use of complementary and alternative therapies in nursing practice Complementary and alternative therapies are becoming increasingly popular among patients. This research topic could explore the use of these therapies in nursing practice, including their efficacy and safety.

The impact of social determinants of health on healthcare outcomes Social determinants of health, such as income and education level, can have a significant impact on healthcare outcomes. This research topic could explore the relationship between social determinants of health and healthcare outcomes.

Investigating the relationship between nurse staffing and patient outcomes Nurse staffing levels can have a significant impact on patient outcomes. This research topic could explore the relationship between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes, including mortality rates and length of stay.

Examining the use of simulation in nursing education Simulation is becoming an increasingly popular teaching tool in nursing education. This research topic could explore the use of simulation in nursing education, including its effectiveness and best practices.

Improving nursing leadership and management in healthcare organizations Nursing leadership and management are essential components of healthcare organizations. This research topic could explore strategies for improving nursing leadership and

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Opening health for all: 7 research topics shaping a healthier world.

Despite recognizing health as a fundamental human right, we currently live in a world where half the population can't access the medical care they need , according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In response, World Health Day 2024 rallies under the theme "My health, my right," demanding quality healthcare, clean air, and healthy environments for all.

The call aligns with Sustainable Development Goal #3: good health and well-being , which includes targets such as universal health coverage and strengthening the capacity of all countries, particularly developing countries, for early warning, risk reduction, and management of national and global health risks.

To second this mission, we have picked 7 Research Topics that tackle some of the world's toughest healthcare challenges. These topics cover ensuring everyone's access to healthcare, life-limiting illness as a public health challenge, and the ethical challenges in digital public health.

All articles are openly available to view and download.

1 | Public Health in the Context of Life-Limiting Illnesses: Patient-Centered Care in Advanced and Life-Limiting Illnesses

Palliative care is holistic, person-centered care and has played a critical role in recent disease outbreaks, environmental disasters, and other humanitarian crises. It is also integral to public health and public health strategies.

At least 60% of people who die have a prolonged advanced illness. The need for palliative and end-of-life care will increase due to the rapidly aging world population and the increase of multiple long-term conditions.

Consequentially, this Research Topic discusses advanced and life-limiting illness as a public health challenge. It also explores the role of palliative and end-of-life care, including rehabilitation, in shaping person-centered care.

25,000 views | 16 articles

2 | Ethical Considerations for Digital Public Health

Public health guidelines and policies relating to digital public health are essential to protecting the population. Accessing health services entails an obligation of care, and understanding the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is also necessary.

That’s why this Research Topic focuses on ethical challenges in digital public health. It highlights advances in public health and the ethical questions that may arise when considering the best practices for tools such as AI and ML.

24,000 views | 10 articles

3 | Cardiovascular Health in Children and Adolescents: Present and future

Cardiovascular disease is the most common chronic non-infectious disease and is ranked as the number one cause of death in the world. Although usually manifested at older ages, massive studies have shown that cardiovascular risk factors are tracked from childhood and adolescence to adulthood.

Good cardiovascular health in childhood and adolescence is thus highly important for preventing the development of cardiovascular disease. With this purpose in mind, we introduce a Research Topic that sheds light on the current situation and future cardiovascular health trends in children and adolescents.

14,000 views | 34 articles

4 | Nutrition and Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing

Good nutrition leads to improved health and well-being, which is one of the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Therefore, this Research Topic focuses on nutrition in this context and other relevant SDGs.

Among others, it covers topics such as nutrition and physical and mental health, the role of nutrition in non-communicable and infectious diseases, universal health coverage, and the influence of data platforms on dietary shifts.

28,000 views | 41 articles

5 | Evidence-based approaches in Aging and Public Health

Aging is having a global and significant impact on health, finance, the economy, and society. It is crucial to have an evidence-based approach to understanding the causes of diseases and preventing or treating them.

In this Research Topic, scientists explore evidence-based medicine applied to aging populations, the application of AI and digital markers for early disease detection, and tools, algorithms, guidelines, and policies to facilitate healthy aging, among other matters.

23,000 views | 15 articles

6 | Education in Public Health: 2022

Public health professionals play a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of the population by working to prevent disease and ultimately prolong individuals' lives.

These researchers work to influence policy, educate everyone on improving their health, and bridge the inequality gap by encouraging equal opportunities for the whole population.

Considering this reality, this Research Topic addresses the current issues faced by principal investigators, lab managers, and student supervisors who educate and train new and early-stage researchers in the field of public health.

15,000 views | 18 articles

7 | Urban Green Spaces and Human Health

Urban green spaces significantly impact living conditions and public health, which are closely associated with several SDGs, including SDG #3: good health and well-being.

Numerous studies have linked access to green spaces—such as the quality and distribution of green space, distance from home, and diversity of non-human elements—to various aspects of health, including birth weight, body mass index, mental and cardiovascular illnesses, and mortality rates.

Accordingly, this Research Topic focuses on recent advances and research on the theory and application of urban green spaces and human health to enhance urban green space's environmental sustainability and contribute to global fair and inclusive sustainable development.

19,000 views | 17 articles

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Student health behavior and academic performance

Associated data.

The following information was supplied regarding data availability:

Raw data are available in the Supplemental Files .

To explore the association between health behaviors and habits of university students and academic achievement.

Participants

Six hundred fourteen undergraduate students at a state university in the United States.

Students were invited over a 2-year period to participate in an anonymous online survey that asked questions concerning a wide range of health behaviors and habits; participants were asked to report their current grade point average (GPA). Standard Least Squares Models were used to examine differences in self-reported GPA across the different health behaviors and habits, with individuals as replicates.

The study found positive associations between breakfast consumption, physical activity, and strength training and self-reported GPA, and negative associations between the hours of sleep per night, hours worked per week, fast food and energy drinks consumption, and use of marijuana, alcohol and electronic vaping products.

Conclusions

While there is an association for some of the studied health behaviors and habits with self-reported GPA, the effect sizes for these health behaviors were low. The significant effect of vaping on GPA as well as the increased use reported in this study indicates that the topic should be explored further. Furthermore, students should be educated on the potential positive and negative effects of health behavior choices to help them make better choices.

Introduction

While the terms ‘academic performance’ and ‘academic success’ are widely used, there is no easy or universally acknowledged definition of either term ( York, Gibson & Rankin, 2015 ). In the United States, and many other countries, grades earned and a grade point average (GPA) calculated from these grades are used as measures of academic success ( Şahin, Çekin & Yazıcılar Özçelik, 2018 ). Looking into factors that may impact college students’ academic success in a positive or negative way is important because the information gained can be used to educate students about these factors to enable them to make choices that minimize negative choices and maximize positive choices.

Although adherence to appropriate health behaviors can assist in facilitating an overall healthy lifestyle in adulthood, the transition to college is often accompanied by an increase in unhealthy behaviors that may influence students’ academic performance ( Ruthig et al., 2011 ; Office of Disease Prevention & Health Promotion, 2020 ). Published studies have shown that students who do follow public health recommendations for their lifestyle choices achieve higher GPAs ( Trockel, Barnes & Egget, 2000 ; Wald et al., 2014 ). Health-promoting behaviors, such as consumption of fruits and vegetables, regular sleep routines, adequate physical activity, and frequent breakfast intake are positive predictors of GPA ( Bellar et al., 2014 ; Wald et al., 2014 ; Hershner, 2020 ; Reuter, Forster & Brister, 2020 ). On the contrary, unhealthy behaviors such as smoking or vaping, use of alcohol or drugs, consumption of fast food, and working long hours have been identified as negative predictors of academic performance ( Tessema, Ready & Astani, 2014 ; Arria et al., 2015 ; Meda et al., 2017 ; Lee, Baring & Sta. Maria, 2018 ; Reuter, Forster & Brister, 2020 ).

Sleep is not only a necessity for biological functioning, but is a vital component for maintaining cognitive roles, memory consolidation, decision making, and learning in general ( Hershner, 2020 ). Sleep quality and quantity are among the most researched health behaviors in connection with academic performance of university students, and there is a consensus that both can affect students’ grades ( Gilbert & Weaver, 2010 ; Flueckiger et al., 2014 ; Gaultney, 2016 ; Gomez Fonseca & Genzel, 2020 ). In Gaultney’s study, for example, freshmen at risk for a sleeping disorder, or infrequent restful sleep, did receive lower grades ( Gaultney, 2016 ). Chen & Chen (2019) found that four out of ten college freshmen reported chronic sleep deprivation, and furthermore, that sleep deprivation in general was associated with a lower GPA.

Because of the rising costs of attending university as well as covering basic expenses while enrolled, there has been a sharp increase in the number of students relying on income from working while in college ( National Center for Education Statistics, 2020 ). Zhang, Shao Tarleton & Johnston (2019) found that seven out of ten students were working for the duration of the semester, while almost half were averaging over 20 h a week. Other studies reported that students who worked ten or less hours over the course of the week reported the highest GPAs, while working more than 10 h was linked with lower GPAs ( Tessema, Ready & Astani, 2014 ; Andemariam et al., 2015 ).

Although a less studied topic relating to university students’ academic performance, physical activity may have a positive effect on overall GPA. According to the Committee on Physical Activity and Physical Education in the School Environment of the Institute of Medicine, basic cognitive functions related to attention and memory are enhanced by physical activity ( Kohl & Cook, 2013 ). Bellar et al. (2014) reported that higher levels of physical activity are positively associated with a higher GPA, while Roddy, Phle-Krauza & Geltz (2017) reported that more frequent use of a university’s recreation center was associated with higher GPAs. On the other hand, Flueckiger et al. (2014) did not find a clear correlation of physical activity with increased learning goal achievement or exam grades.

Healthy eating habits have been shown to positively influence academic performance ( Kristjánsson, Sigfúsdóttir & Allegrante, 2010 ; Wald et al., 2014 ; Burrows et al., 2017 ). The quality of students’ diet appears to be the main factor for this effect. Florence, Asbridge & Veugelers (2008) reported an association of diet quality and academic performance in school children. They found that students with decreased overall diet quality were significantly more likely to perform poorly on structured assessments. Rampersaud et al. (2005) also expressed that a healthy diet is effective in improving cognitive functioning and academic performance. Not all studies, however, agree on which habits specifically have a positive effect on academic performance. For example, Burrows et al. (2017) looked at seven different studies and found that five of them reported higher academic achievement with increased fruit intake. In contrast, Trockel, Barnes & Egget (2000) and Reuter, Forster & Brister (2020) did not report an association between fruit intake and GPA. Regular consumption of breakfast has also shown to have a positive effect on GPA ( Chawla et al., 2019 ; Reuter, Forster & Brister, 2020 ). Conversely, unhealthy dietary behaviors adversely affect academic performance. Kobayashi (2009) and Reuter, Forster & Brister (2020) found that as consumption of fast food increased, GPA successively decreased, and consumption of energy drinks also has shown to have a negative effect on academic success ( Trunzo et al., 2014 ; Champlin, Pasch & Perry, 2016 ).

The two most commonly abused substances among college students are alcohol and marijuana ( Meda et al., 2017 ). Both have been shown to be related to decreased academic performance in a number of published studies ( Wallis et al., 2019 ). Drug use is considered a major factor associated with inferior academic success and more frequent alcohol consumption is negatively correlated with GPA ( Arria et al., 2015 ; Conway & DiPlacido, 2015 ; Meda et al., 2017 ; Souza, Hamilton & Wright, 2019 ). Marijuana use was found to be negatively correlated with GPA, with more frequent users having the lowest GPAs ( Suerken et al., 2016 ).

Limited studies exist concerning cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use, and their relationship with college students’ GPA. Lee, Baring & Sta. Maria (2018) reported lower GPAs in students who smoked compared to their peers who did not. Phillips et al. (2015) also found that smoking was a negative predictor of cumulative GPA. The use of e-cigarettes or other electronic vaping products is a fairly new phenomenon and, thus, there are only a few published studies on their use among university students and possible effects on academic performance. Onojighofia Tobore (2019) stressed that induced oxidative stress from e-cigarettes can be linked to cognitive impairment and attention deficit. Leas et al. (2020) reported that almost one-third of the young adults they surveyed had used at least one form of tobacco product, including e-cigarettes. However, the study did not look into an association with academic performance.

Finally, there is a long history of university students turning towards the use of stimulants to improve academic performance ( Arria & DuPont, 2010 ). However, Arria et al. (2015) reported that users of stimulants and analgesics had lower average GPAs than nonusers. The students also spent less time studying, went out more socially, and skipped class more frequently.

This article reports on 28 health behaviors and habits and their impact on the academic performance of undergraduate students at a public university in the southern United States. The behaviors selected can be categorized in five categories: (1) sleeping habits, (2) working, (3) physical activity, (4) eating habits, and (5) alcohol, tobacco, and drugs consumption ( Table 1 ). Our aim was to cover the spectrum of behaviors and habits customarily found in a student population. Therefore, we included basic behaviors, such as sleeping and eating habits, as well as behaviors and habits that only some students may engage in, such as alcohol consumption.

Standard Least Squares Model (Restricted Maximum Likelihood Method, REML; individuals as replicates; students’ biological sex used as a random effect).

The last study to look at a similar, although different number of factors in a comparable study population was published in 2000 ( Trockel, Barnes & Egget, 2000 ). The students in that study were late Generation X and/or early Millennial students; the students in our study are Generation Z students whose health behaviors and habits are different in many ways ( Rue, 2018 ; Schlee, Evelan & Harich, 2020 ). For example, vaping was not prevalent in 2000, while smoking was far more common. For this reason, the findings of this study are of particular importance because of gaps in our understanding of health-promoting behaviors and the academic performance of this new generation of college students.

Ethical research statement

The research protocol and its amendment were approved by an ethical review board (Institutional Review Board) at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) prior to data collection (FGCU IRB 2018-17, March 30, 2018). All researchers involved in the study were trained in ethical data collection through the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI). Data collection followed all laws relevant to the survey of university student populations.

Data collection

Data were collected over a 2-year period between April 1, 2018 and January 31, 2020 using an anonymous online survey. Students at all colleges at a regional state university in southwest Florida were invited via email to participate in the survey. The first page of the survey consisted of an approved online survey consent form; in other words, consent was obtained. Participation was voluntary and participants did not receive any compensation or extra credit. Some part of the data unrelated to current research purpose was published elsewhere ( Reuter, Forster & Brister, 2020 ).

The survey consisted of five groups of questions around health and wellness, requesting information–among other topics–regarding demographic information, such as gender, age, ethnicity/race, year at school, and current overall grade point average (GPA), eating and sleeping habits, and drugs and alcohol consumption (see Appendix 1 ). Most of the questions were modeled after questions used in the 2017 Standard High School Youth Risk Behavior Survey ( Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, 2017 ).

Data analyses

For questions with categorical answers, data are presented as a percentage of the total participant pool, or a portion of this pool. For questions with quantitative answers, data are presented as means with standard deviations. Sample sizes are indicated as they vary for different analyses due to the voluntary nature of the survey.

To examine differences in self-reported GPA across 28 different health behaviors and habits, Standard Least Squares Models were used (Restricted Maximum Likelihood Method, REML), with individuals as replicates. GPA differed significantly by cohort (Wilcoxon Rank Sums Test, Chi-square = 18.9057, DF = 3, p = 0.0003) and was therefore included as a random effect in all tests. GPA differed by biological sex (Wilcoxon Rank Sums Test, Chi-square = 4.5894, DF = 1, p = 0.0322) and biological sex of students was therefore included as a random effect in all tests.

Student’s T-Test All Pairwise Comparisons (Least Squares Means) were used as post-hoc tests. The dependent variable in all tests was student self-reported GPA (a continuous numerical variable ranges from 0.00 to 4.00). Independent variables are listed in Table 1 below or can be found on the survey in Appendix 1 . Given the number of statistical analyses performed (41 tests) we have used the Benjamini–Hochberg Procedure (with a false discovery rate of 5%) to determine significance (tests with a p -value < 0.0189 are being considered significant using this approach). Statistical analyses were performed using JMP software program Version 15 (JMP ® ; SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA).

Study population

Of 761 students who participated in the online survey, 147 respondents were excluded from analyses for a number of reasons, including: (a) respondents who indicated an age younger than 18 years of age or older than 25 years of age or failed to provide information on their current GPA; (b) part-time students, as the sample sizes was too small ( n = 15) and they had a lower GPA than full-time students (Wilcoxon Rank Sums Test, Chi-square = 4.61, DF = 1, p = 0.0317); (c) non-traditional students (graduate, non-degree seeking, and second-degree seeking students); and (d) students who failed to provide information about their biological sex. As such, 614 students remained in the dataset.

Study population profile

Biological sex : 78.5% female students, 21.5% male students.

Race/ethnicity : 58.3% Caucasian/White, 15.8% Hispanic, 5.9% African-American/Black, 1.1% East Asian, 1.1% Non-Hispanic, 17.3% more than one ethnicity/race or ethnicity/race other than listed, 0.5% no information.

Age : 19.6 ± 1.4 years (mean ± standard deviation; range: 18–25 years; median age = 19 years).

Student population : 30.9% freshman, 29.5% sophomore, 26.6% junior, 13.0% senior.

The average current GPA for all 614 respondents was 3.39 ± 0.51 (range: 0.40–4.0; median GPA = 3.5). Freshmen reported the highest average GPA (3.45 ± 0.64), followed by seniors (3.45 ± 0.42), juniors (3.36 ± 0.39), and sophomores (3.36 ± 0.48).

The average GPA for female students was 3.42 ± 0.52 compared with 3.34 ± 0.49 for male students.

Health behaviors and self-reported GPA

Differences in self-reported GPA across 28 different health behaviors and habits were examined ( Table 1 ).

Average self-reported GPA differed by the number of hours slept on average per night ( Fig. 1 ). Students who slept 4 h or less per night had lower GPAs than students who slept 6 h per night ( p -value = 0.0062), 7 h per night ( p -value = 0.0025), and 8 h per night ( p -value = 0.0004, Student’s T-Test All Pairwise Comparisons). Students who slept 9 h per night, had lower GPAs than students who slept 8 h per night ( p = 0.0006, Student’s T-Test All Pairwise Comparisons).

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There was no significant difference in the average GPA of students based on when they went to sleep. Nine out of ten respondents went to bed between 10 pm and 2 am (87.3%). Students going to bed between 8 pm and 10 pm (4.1%) had a self-reported GPA of 3.46 (±0.33), students going to bed between 10 pm and midnight (44.1%) reported an average GPA of 3.45 (±0.47), and the average GPA for students who went to bed between midnight and 2 am (43.2%) was 3.37 (±0.53).

Almost equal numbers of students got up before 6 am (8.5%) or liked to sleep in and got up after 10 am on average (8.6%). The rest preferred to get up between 6 am and 8 am (42.0%) or between 8 am and 10 am (40.9%). But, there was no significant difference in the average GPA of students based on when they woke up.

Self-reported GPA for respondents differed depending on whether or not respondents worked, with a negative association between hours worked on average per week and self-reported GPA. Students who did not work/worked zero hours per week had a higher GPA than students who worked 20–30 h per week ( p = 0.0188), 30–40 h per week ( p = 0.0094), and more than 40 h per week ( p = 0.0014). Students who did not work or only up to 10 h per week reported average GPAs of above 3.45, whereas students who worked 10 h or more per week had GPAs of 3.38 or less ( Fig. 2 ).

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Physical activity

One-sixth of respondents considered themselves as not physically active at all (17.0%). Their self-reported GPA was 3.28 ± 0.64 as compared to an average GPA of 3.43 ± 0.48 for respondents who were physically active (83.0%). There was a significant difference in the average GPA of students based on the number of days they were physically active in the week prior.

In addition, respondents who engaged in exercises to strengthen or tone their muscles, such as push-ups, sit-ups, or weight lifting, reported higher GPAs than students who did not engage in such exercises.

Eating habits

Consumption habits for vegetables, fruits, fruit juice, or green salad did not change among students with different GPAs. There was also no significant difference in the average GPA of students based on the number of times milk, soda, diet soda, or sports drinks were consumed in the last week either. Nevertheless, the difference in average GPA between respondents who did and those who did not consume energy drinks was significant with a p -value of 0.0084.

Self-reported GPA differed based on the days that students had eaten breakfast in the past seven days ( Fig. 3 ). Students who ate breakfast seven days a week/everyday were more likely to have higher GPAs than students who never ate breakfast (zero days of the last seven), ate breakfast one day per week, ate breakfast 2 days per week, or ate breakfast three days per week ( p < 0.0075).

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Self-reported GPA differed based on the number of times that students had eaten fast food in the past 7 days ( Fig. 4 ). Students who ate no fast food had higher GPAs than students who reported eating fast food 7 to 10 times ( p < 0.0001).

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Alcohol, smoking, and drugs consumption

The self-reported GPAs for students who had consumed alcoholic drinks, students who had tried cigarette smoking, and students who had used electronic vaping products were lower versus students who had not engaged in any of these behaviors before.

There was also a significant difference in self-reported GPA of students based on whether or not they had ever used marijuana at all, with students who had never used marijuana reporting higher GPAs than those who had used it at least once.

Conversely, there was no significant difference in the average GPA of students based on whether or not they considered themselves to be a smoker, the number of times they had used an electronic vaping product in the last week, the number of alcoholic beverages they had consumed in the last 30 days, and the number of times they had used marijuana in the past 7 days.

There was also no significant difference in the average GPA of students based whether or not they had ever taken prescription pain medication without a prescription or differently than prescribed, and whether or not they had ever consumed drugs other than marijuana.

The most commonly named drugs were hallucinogens ( n = 40) such as LSD and DMT, cocaine ( n = 34), ecstasy/molly/MDA ( n = 24), and mushrooms ( n = 17). Surprisingly, Xanax ® and ADHD medications, such as Adderall ® , were listed by five respondents each only, although they are reportedly used more frequently ( National Survey on Drug Use & Health, 2017 ).

The findings of this study are of particular importance because they fill in gaps of our understanding of health behaviors and their impact on the academic performance of Generation Z university students within a university in the southern United States of America. Given, however, that health behaviors and habits vary considerably within a region or country, and from university to university, it is nevertheless difficult to compare our results to the behavior of student populations at other institutions. For example, a study comparing health promoting behaviors and lifestyle characteristics of students in the United Kingdom found marked differences for the students at the seven universities included ( El Ansari et al., 2011 ). Trockel, Barnes & Egget (2000) acknowledged that some of their findings would probably have been different had they not collected data at a ‘dry’ campus, i.e., a campus where alcohol consumption was prohibited. Also, the arrival of Generation Z students (i.e., students born after 1996) on campus over the last 5 to 6 years has brought changes that make it more difficult to compare our results with the findings of studies published 15 or 20 years ago. For instance, according to the American Lung Association (2020) , in 1999, 38.4% of high school students were smokers; by 2018, that percentage had dropped down to 8.8%. Still, the results of our study align with previously published results.

Our findings that students who sleep less than 4 h or more than 9 h per night have lower GPAs than students who sleep 6, 7, or 8 h per night, are similar to what Vedaa et al. (2019) reported for Norwegian students. Chen & Chen (2019) reported that a lack of sleep has a negative association with GPA for college freshmen.

However, our data did not confirm the results from other studies that indicated the timing of sleep to be a better predictor for academic performance than actual hours slept ( Eliasson, Lettieri & Eliasson, 2010 ; Genzel et al., 2013 ). For example, Eliasson, Lettieri & Eliasson (2010) reported that students with earlier bed times and earlier wake times had higher GPAs, and concluded that timing of sleep is a better predictor for academic performance than actual sleep hours. In our study, however, it did not matter what time students went to bed as long as they got a sufficient amount of sleep. For instance, students who went to bed between midnight and 2 am reported an average GPA of 3.24 ± 0.60 if they slept 5 h or less but an average GPA of 3.47 ± 0.60 if they slept 8 h per night.

There is a consensus among published studies that the number of hours that full-time students work negatively affects their academic performance ( Miller, Danner & Staten, 2008 ; Pike, Kuh & Massa-McKinley, 2008 ; Darolia, 2014 ; Tessema, Ready & Astani, 2014 ; Andemariam et al., 2015 ). In line with our study, Tessema, Ready & Astani (2014) reported lower GPAs for students working more than 11 h per week, and students working over 31 h per week had the lowest GPA in the study by Andemariam et al. (2015) .

Additionally, the positive effect on average GPA we found for students working fewer than 10 h per week ( Fig. 2 ), is supported by the studies of Darolia (2014) , Andemariam et al. (2015) , and Tessema, Ready & Astani (2014) .

We found a positive effect for both strength training and physical activity in general on average self-reported GPA. Respondents who engaged in exercises to strengthen or tone their muscles, such as push-ups, sit-ups, or weight lifting, on four days or more during the past seven days had a higher GPA at 3.51 ± 0.44 than students exercising 1-3 days (3.43 ± 0.44) and students who did not exercise at all (3.28 ± 0.64).

However, Wald et al. (2014) reported a modestly higher GPA for physical activity only and no association between GPA and strength training. Trockel, Barnes & Egget (2000) did not find an association between GPA and either exercise or strength training; nor did Flueckiger et al. (2014) . Contrary to that, Bellar et al. (2014) reported that higher levels of physical activity are positively associated with higher GPAs. Roddy, Phle-Krauza & Geltz (2017) showed that students who used a university’s recreation center frequently and regularly were the students with the higher GPAs as compared to their peers who visited irregularly. However, they did not look at the different types of exercise and how they affected GPA.

We found a positive association between eating breakfast and GPA as well as a negative association between the number of times fast food was consumed per week and GPA. The positive effect of eating breakfast regularly has been reported in studies from different countries ( Trockel, Barnes & Egget, 2000 ; Phillips, 2005 ; Rampersaud et al., 2005 ; Adolphus, Lawton & Dye, 2013 ; Chawla et al., 2019 ; Reuter, Forster & Brister, 2020 ). Kobayashi (2009) , Deliens et al. (2013) and Reuter, Forster & Brister (2020) also found a negative association between fast food consumption and academic performance.

In agreement with previous studies ( Petit & DeBarr, 2011 ; Trunzo et al., 2014 ; Buchanan & Ickes, 2015 ; Champlin, Pasch & Perry, 2016 ), our study showed a significant negative association between energy drink consumption and GPA. Interestingly, 84.3% of our respondents reported not having consumed energy drinks at all over the past seven days. On the other hand, Petit & DeBarr (2011) reported that more than half the students in their study drank at least one energy drink in the past seven days, illustrating how this health behavior has changed over the last 10 years.

A negative relationship between alcohol consumption and GPA was reported by Conway & DiPlacido (2015) , Piazza-Gardner, Barry & Merianos (2016) as well as Meda et al. (2017) . However, we did not find an association between the number of alcoholic beverages consumed in the past 30 days and GPA. But, students in our study who indicated having consumed alcohol at least once so far reported lower GPAs than students who had never had an alcoholic drink.

Smoking clearly is not as popular with current college students as it used to be. Only one-fifth (19.5%) of students who answered the question “ Have you ever tried cigarette smoking? ” answered ‘yes’ and only 10 students (1.7%) considered themselves to be smokers. Still, students who had tried cigarette smoking reported lower GPAs than students who had never smoked. Phillips et al. (2015) and Meda et al. (2017) also reported that smoking was a negative predictor of cumulative GPA.

Vaping was much more common than smoking among our study population; one-third of respondents (35.9%) answered ‘yes’ to the question “ Have you ever used an electronic vapor product? ” and 15.1% of respondents had vaped during at least 1 day over the last 7 days. The fact that in our study only 22.5% of seniors but 39.5% of freshmen admitted to having used electronic vaping products demonstrates that vaping is still on the rise. Study respondents who reported having vaped before had lower GPAs than respondents who had never vaped.

The only drug used by a substantial number of respondents in this study was marijuana with 44.2% of participants responding with ‘yes’ to the question “ Have you ever used marijuana? ”. While we did not find an association between marijuana use frequency (i.e., number of days marijuana used in the past 7 days) and GPA, our data show that students who answered the question with ‘yes’ reported lower GPAs compared with students who answered with ‘no’. Arria et al. (2015) did not find an association between marijuana use and GPA, whereas Meda et al. (2017) , Suerken et al. (2016) , Souza, Hamilton & Wright (2019) , and Wallis et al. (2019) all reported a negative relationship between marijuana use and academic success.

We did not find an association between pain killer abuse (i.e., taking prescription pain medication without prescription or differently than prescribed) or the use of drugs other than marijuana, such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, ecstasy, hallucinogenic drugs, or synthetic marijuana, and GPA. Pain killer abuse among our study population was at about the same level as reported for the age group 18–25 in the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) at 7.7% in our study vs. 7.2% in the NSDUH.

The three main limitations of our study were: (1) participant selection, (2) reliance on self-reported health behaviors and habits, and (3) reliance on self-reported GPAs. Although we invited students from all colleges across the university to participate, our final study population with 78.5% female students and 21.5% male students does not reflect the demographics of the student body at our university (53% female students and 47% male students) ( Florida Gulf Coast University, 2020 ). Research has shown that female students are more interested in or worried about health-related issues and diet, and are more likely to participate in online surveys in general ( Rozin, Bauer & Catanese, 2003 ; Smith, 2008 ).

Participants may have intentionally or unintentionally provided incorrect information about their lifestyle choices or their current GPA. For example, students may have given us the GPA they were hoping to achieve at end of the current semester instead of the actual GPA for completed classes. Also, students may have wanted to appear to be making better health behavior choices or may not remember accurately how often they had consumed fast food, for example. Moreover, some of the behaviors and habits included in the survey were not defined and participants may have interpreted them differently. For example, some participants may have considered walking to class as being physically active, while others may have set the bar higher. Additionally, we cannot rule out that students may have participated more than once. However, there is no reason to believe that inaccuracies such as these or repeat responses had a substantial impact on the findings of this study due to the number of participants being higher than 600.

Our survey was not designed to look into factors that affect student health behaviors and habits; it was designed to look at whether or not the included behaviors impact students’ academic performance. Therefore, the information received from participants is not suitable to make inferences as to potential mechanisms underlying the findings of our study. These questions should be addressed in future studies.

Our study involving more than 600 students found positive associations between breakfast consumption, physical activity, and strength training and self-reported grade point average. We also found negative associations between the hours of sleep per night, hours worked per week, fast food and energy drinks consumption, and use of marijuana, alcohol and electronic vaping products. However, the effect sizes for these health behaviors were low. In other words, even though there is a relationship to the average GPA, the variables do not explain the variation in GPA scores. For example, although self-reported GPA differs significantly by hours of sleep per night, only 5.0% of the variation in the GPA scores can be explained by this factor alone.

So far, the public—as well as the research community—has focused mainly on the physical damage using electronic vaping products causes, such as lung injuries. The significantly negative effect of vaping on GPA as well as the increased use found in our study indicates that the topic should be explored in further studies.

Supplemental Information

Supplemental information 1, supplemental information 2, acknowledgments.

We would like to thank Kim E. Reuter, PhD, for support with the statistical analysis of the data, and for her valued insights and contributions to the project. Many thanks to Sierra Brister for her support in designing the research project.

Funding Statement

The authors received no funding for this work.

Additional Information and Declarations

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Peter R. Reuter conceived and designed the experiments, performed the experiments, analyzed the data, prepared figures and/or tables, authored or reviewed drafts of the paper, and approved the final draft.

Bridget L. Forster conceived and designed the experiments, performed the experiments, analyzed the data, authored or reviewed drafts of the paper, and approved the final draft.

The following information was supplied relating to ethical approvals (i.e., approving body and any reference numbers):

The Florida Gulf Coast University Institutional Review Board approved the study on March 30, 2018 (Protocol ID # 2018-17).

Research article
Open access
Published: 29 October 2019

Health literacy: exploring disparities among college students

Jehad A. Rababah ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-9468-3487 1 ,
Mohammed M. Al-Hammouri 2 ,
Barbara L. Drew 3 &
Mohammed Aldalaykeh 2

BMC Public Health volume 19 , Article number: 1401 ( 2019 ) Cite this article

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Health literacy is a multidimensional concept that is considered a primary public health concern. This concept is often neglected in research, and the evidence regarding health literacy in college students is limited. The aim of this study was two-fold: to determine the needs and limitations of health literacy among college students and to explore the relationships among the nine dimensions of health literacy and sociodemographic factors, including age, gender, nationality, year of study, field of study, smoking status, history of chronic diseases, use of on-campus gym, and the intention to exercise on-campus.

This study was conducted using a cross-sectional approach. A total of 520 college students participated in this study. The average age was 21.03 years (SD = 2.29), with 47.5% males and 52.5% females. Data were collected using a demographics questionnaire and the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ). In addition to descriptive statistics, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and follow-up analyses were performed to explore any statistically significant mean differences among levels of health literacy and sociodemographic factors.

The levels of health literacy on the nine HLQ scales were lower than the levels reported in the literature. Multivariate analysis showed a significant effect of age, gender, smoking status, year of study, and field of study on the level of health literacy. Follow-up analyses revealed that female students, students from the health-related faculties, and those who do not smoke have higher levels of health literacy compared to their counterparts. A detailed comparison between the levels of the HLQ scales was made based on students’ demographic characteristics. The field of study had the most prominent effect on the level of college students’ health literacy; mean differences were statistically significant ( p < .001), and effect sizes were large (ranging from .66 to 1.35 for the nine scales of the HLQ).

College students’ health literacy is influenced by demographic characteristics. Such variations could amplify some of the existing health disparities. The implications of the findings on health, health promotion, and interprofessional education are discussed.

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Health literacy defined

Health literacy is an important public health concern that is often neglected in research [ 1 ]. There is no definite agreement on the definition of health literacy. A widely used definition of health literacy is “the degree to which individuals can obtain, process, and understand the basic health information and services they need to make appropriate health decisions” (2 p1). The World Health Organization (WHO) described health literacy as “both a means and an outcome of actions aimed at promoting the empowerment and participation of people in their communities and of people in their health care” (1 p6). Sørensen and colleagues [ 2 ] provided a list of the most commonly used definitions of health literacy. Generally speaking, the definitions address the importance of having both sound cognitive abilities and competent skills to obtain, understand, and utilize health information to make appropriate health-related decisions. The ultimate outcome of being health literate is to manage and promote health.

Limited health literacy

The level of health literacy among individuals and groups ranges from limited to adequate. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services asserted that limited health literacy is a common issue [ 3 ]. Factors that predispose an individual to have a limited health literacy include a lower level of education, older age, and migration [ 1 ]. Moreover, people with poor socioeconomic status and those who are considered minorities are at greater risk of having limited health literacy [ 3 ]. Statistics regarding the epidemiology of limited health literacy, available mainly from the U.S. and the European Union (EU), provide worrying numbers. Based on the National Assessment of Adult Literacy (NAAL), 36% of the U.S. population had basic or below basic health literacy [ 3 ]. The situation in the EU is more disturbing, with almost half of Europeans found to have limited health literacy [ 1 ]. This was reported in a survey conducted in eight countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain [ 4 ]. The populations studied in these countries represent diverse cultures and nationalities.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, such data from developing countries are limited. However, the possibility of having limited health literacy in developing countries could be higher considering the relatively lower socioeconomic status and education levels. Limited health literacy adversely affects self-management of health, especially for those with or at risk for chronic diseases [ 1 ]. In addition, it results in poorer health outcomes and a higher likelihood of hospitalizations and hinders preventive care [ 3 , 5 ]. The individual’s ability to adopt a healthy lifestyle diminishes and the risk of having unhealthy behaviors increases when health literacy is limited [ 1 ]. The end result of having limited health literacy is a substantial rise in healthcare costs [ 1 ].

In addition, there are some common procedural limitations of health literacy studies. A review of the related literature showed that the focus of health literacy research has been on measuring functional health literacy, that is, the ability to read and understand health information [ 1 , 6 ]. Making an informed decision extends beyond the level of merely comprehending such information. Another related issue is that the administration of shortened versions of health literacy measurement tools increases the risk of ignoring key aspects of multidimensional health literacy. The following section will discuss common health problems experienced by college students and summarize the literature regarding health literacy among them. To overcome such procedural issues, we used the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) [ 7 ] in this study. The HLQ was developed following a validity-driven approach and covers various dimensions of measuring health literacy. According to the WHO, the HLQ is recommended for use in the identification of health literacy strengths and limitations [ 8 ]. Thus, the HLQ was consistent with one of the objectives of the current study.

College students’ health

Throughout their course of study, college students experience a unique transition from high school to adulthood. Meleis defined transition as “a passage from one fairly stable state to another fairly stable state, and it is a process triggered by change” (9 p11). Going through such developmental transition brings about milestone changes in college students’ lives. According to the literature, college students worldwide experience high levels of psychological distress [ 9 , 10 , 11 ] that exceed the levels experienced by nonstudents [ 12 ]. There are many factors, such as individual differences and environmental influences, that make someone’s experience with the transition process different [ 13 ]. However, there are common circumstances experienced by the majority of college students that could negatively affect students’ health. Examples include academic responsibilities, building new social networks, financial concerns, and living adjustments [ 10 , 11 ]. In addition, a report from the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) indicates that consuming unhealthy food, stress, sleep deprivation, and peer pressure to use harmful substances are all examples of the circumstances that affect college students’ health [ 14 ].

Colleges are considered ideal settings for starting health promotion programs [ 15 , 16 ]. The uniqueness of colleges lies mainly in the availability of human and physical resources to foster adopting healthy lifestyle changes. Surprisingly, the results of the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) showed that significant proportions of undergraduate students have not received information regarding specific health topics from their higher education institutions [ 17 ]. At the same time, the students reported their need to receive information regarding health. Table 1 summarizes the most alarming findings from the ACHA-NCHA. For example, 76.9% of students reported that they had not received information about the issue of “Sleep Difficulty”. Meanwhile, the majority of students (67.5%) showed interest in learning about this issue. The significance of these findings is two-fold; they 1) address the responsibility of higher education institutions and 2) highlight the topics in which college students are interested in obtaining more information. Clearly, these topics are of great importance for different dimensions of health, including physical, psychological, psychiatric, social, and reproductive health.

Health literacy among college students

The percentages presented in the table raise a key question: how much do we know about health literacy among college students? Many studies have shown that college students have adequate levels of health literacy [ 18 , 19 , 20 ]. Other studies conducted mainly outside the U.S., on the other hand, reported inadequate levels of health literacy [ 21 , 22 ]. Analysis of the relevant literature showed that many of the studies conducted among college students share the common drawbacks, mentioned earlier, of studying health literacy among general populations. Additionally, a central recommendation of many studies was the importance of investigating potential relationships between sociodemographic variables and the level of health literacy [ 18 , 20 ].

Exploring Health Literacy in Tertiary Students: An International Study is a global project that was launched in 2014 to measure the level of health literacy among college students studying the health professions [ 23 ]. This project, with data collected from 19 universities in 10 countries worldwide using the HLQ, has led to significant advances in studying health literacy in college students. Data from different participating countries (namely, the U.S., Denmark, and China) have already been published. In the U.S., Vamos and colleagues intended to explore the effect of sociodemographic variables on health literacy [ 24 ]. They concluded that college students’ age, gender, and parents’ education affect health literacy. The Danish study also examined the effect of sociodemographic variables on the level of health literacy among college students from four different health professions [ 25 ]. The authors reported a positive correlation between parents’ education and health literacy and found that public health students had higher scores on the HLQ scales. Regarding the data from China, college students’ health literacy varied based on students’ gender, year and field of study, socioeconomic status, area of residence (urban vs. rural), and parents’ education [ 26 ]. Comparable findings were also reported in a study that was conducted in Turkey using the Adult Health Literacy Scale [ 27 ].

The conclusions drawn from these studies were similar and emphasized the importance of exploring the impact of college students’ sociodemographic characteristics on health literacy around the world. Therefore, this study was conducted to 1) determine the needs and limitations of health literacy among four-year college students and 2) explore the relationships among the nine dimensions of health literacy and sociodemographic factors, including age, gender, nationality, year of study, field of study, smoking status, history of chronic diseases, use of on-campus gym, and the intention to exercise on-campus. These sociodemographic factors were selected based on the evidence regarding their relationship with health literacy in other higher education settings and populations such as those with chronic illnesses [ 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 ].

Design and setting

This study was conducted using a cross-sectional, exploratory design. It was conducted at a large public university in northern Jordan. The current study is a part of a larger ongoing project conducted to explore health promotion and self-care among university students.

Sampling and participants

After obtaining the Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval from Jordan University of Science and Technology, four-year college students were invited to participate in this study. A purposive sampling approach was used to recruit a sample, which was as representative as possible, of the accessible population. Two criteria were considered during the recruitment of participants to enhance the representativeness of the sample: 1) recruiting students from the health-related and other fields of study proportional to the actual numbers of students in these fields and 2) recruiting students who represent the different years of study. A written informed consent was obtained from each participant after explaining the study, its purpose, and the potential benefits. A total of 520 participants, with a response rate of 79.3%, completed a demographics questionnaire and the health literacy questionnaire (HLQ) [ 29 ]. The average age of participants was 21.03 years (SD = 2.29), with 47.5% males and 52.5% females. A summary of the participants’ characteristics is presented in Table 2 .

Data collection tools

A demographics questionnaire was developed for this study and included items regarding the age, gender, field of study, year of study, smoking status, existence of chronic diseases, allergies, vaccination history, and physical activity of participants (See Additional file 1 ). We also used the Arabic version of the HLQ, which was provided by the developers of the tool. Up to this point there are no studies that investigated the psychometrics of the Arabic version of the HLQ yet. However, according to the developers of the HLQ, this tool has been translated using a rigorous process to ensure consistency of the translated versions with the original HLQ in terms of the psychometric properties.

Health literacy questionnaire

The HLQ [ 7 ] is a 44-item tool used to measure health literacy. It was developed following a validity-driven approach utilizing data from the general population, patients, healthcare providers, and policy makers. Items of the HLQ cover nine areas pertinent to the challenges and needs of people. These areas are reflected in nine scales of the HLQ: 1) Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers (four items); 2) Having sufficient information to manage my health (four items); 3) Actively managing my health (five items); 4) Social support for health (five items); 5) Appraisal of health information (five items); 6) Ability to actively engage with healthcare providers (five items); 7) Navigating the healthcare system (6 items); 8) Ability to find good health information (five items); and 9) Understand health information (five items). The first five scales contain items with responses ranging from one (strongly disagree) to four (strongly agree). The remaining scales, six through nine, include items with five responses: 1 = cannot do or always difficult, 2 = usually difficult, 3 = sometimes difficult, 4 = usually easy, and 5 = always easy. There is no total score for the HLQ; instead, it is recommended to calculate the scores for nine scales to examine the needs and limitations of health literacy [ 7 ]. The total score of a given scale is calculated as the mean average of the items within that scale. Possible total scores range from one to four in the first five scales and one to five in scales six through nine. All scales were administered in combination in the current study to collect the full range of information on health literacy among college students.

The factor structure of the HLQ and its scales has been examined using confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modeling [ 7 ]. Osborne and colleagues found that composite reliability was above .80 for all scales except for the “Appraisal of Health Information” scale. In the current study, Cronbach’s alpha was calculated for each scale. The results showed that seven out of the nine scales had Cronbach’s alpha values above the recommended value of .70, with a range from .70 to .82. The values for two scales were below that value: “Feeling Understood and Supported by Healthcare Providers” (Cronbach’s α = .61) and “Having Sufficient Information to Manage My Health” (Cronbach’s α = .65).

Data analysis

All data were analyzed using SPSS (version 23). Descriptive statistics and frequencies were performed. As noted earlier, the HLQ provides nine separate scores for each scale, and these scores were considered the dependent variables (DVs). Age, gender, field of study, year of study, nationality, smoking status, being diagnosed with chronic disease(s), use of on-campus gym, and intention to exercise on-campus were all treated as the independent variables (IVs). Based on that, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was conducted. Running MANOVA in SPSS yields four multivariate outcomes: Pillai’s Trace, Wilks’ Lambda, Hotelling’s Trace, and Roy’s Largest Root. The decision was made to use Roy’s Largest Root for three reasons: 1) some of the IVs had more than two groups, 2) the sample sizes of the groups were not equal, and 3) the distribution of the data was not platykurtic [ 31 , 32 ]. In the case of having significant multivariate results of the Roy’s Largest Root statistic, follow-up analyses using ANOVA and independent t-tests were performed to detect the source of the statistically significant mean differences in the nine scales of the HLQ. Because of the different sample sizes, Gabriel’s test was used to interpret the results of follow-up ANOVAs [ 31 , 32 ]. The P values were adjusted in these follow-up analyses to avoid inflation of Type I error (see the Results section).

To obtain an overall idea about participants’ health literacy needs and challenges, descriptive statistics of the nine HLQ scales were performed first. The “Social Support for Health” scale had the highest average score (Mean = 2.87, SD = .56) for scales one through five. For the remaining scales, the “Ability to Find Good Health Information” had the highest average (Mean = 3.57, SD = .74). The average scores, standard deviations, and ranges of the HLQ scales are presented in Table 3 . It is worth noting that this table is not intended for comparison between the scores of the nine HLQ scales. Rather, it is just to give the reader an overall idea about the levels of health literacy among the study sample.

Multivariate and univariate analyses

Assumptions were first checked before conducting and interpreting MANOVA. Considering the size of our sample, histograms were used to check for normal distribution [ 32 ], and they are provided as a supplementary file (See Additional file 2 ). According to Mayers, a multivariate effect exists when there is a correlation between the DVs with acceptable positive correlations ranging from .30 to .90 [ 32 ]. Prior to performing MANOVA, the correlations between the HLQ scales were first examined using Pearson’s r correlation. The results showed that all correlations fell within that range (r = .46 to .82). The homogeneity of variance-covariance matrices was evidenced by having a nonsignificant Box’s Test ( p = .082). Levene’s Test statistic was also not significant ( p values for the nine scales ranged from .06 to .88), indicating homogeneity of between-group variance.

MANOVA analysis showed statistically significant multivariate differences in the nine scales of the HLQ based on participants’ age (Roy’s Largest Root = .076, F {15, 492} = 2.49, p = .001), gender (Roy’s Largest Root = .037, F {9, 484} = 1.97, p = .041), smoking status (Roy’s Largest Root = .04, F {9, 484} = 2.17, p = .023), year of study (Roy’s Largest Root = .052, F {9, 488} = 2.81, p = .003), and field of study (Roy’s Largest Root = .49, F {9484} = 26.54, p < .001). The rest of the IVs did not have a statistically significant multivariate effect on the scales of the HLQ; consequently, they were not considered in the follow-up analyses. Regarding the interaction effects, no statistically significant effects were found. Univariate results revealed that two IVs, that is, smoking status and field of study, had statistically significant effects on the DVs (see Table 4 ). Partial Eta Squared (Partial η 2 ) was used to posteriori calculate the effect sizes presented in the table. Cohen’s guidelines were used to interpret the resulting effect sizes: small <.25, medium = .25 to .40, and large >.40 [ 33 ].

Post hoc and follow-up analyses to locate the source of main effects

Post hoc analysis, using Gabriel’s statistic, showed the following statistically significant results: 1) second-year students had lower scores on the “Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .01); 2) third-year students had lower scores on the “Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .025); 3) third-year students had lower scores on the “Having sufficient information to manage my health” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .032); 4) first-year students had lower scores on the “Appraisal of health information” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .001); 5) second-year students had lower scores on the “Appraisal of health information” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .001); 6) third-year students had lower scores on the “Appraisal of health information” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .001); 7) fourth-year students had higher scores on the “Appraisal of health information” scale than fifth- and sixth-year students ( p = .004); 8) third-year students had lower scores on the “Ability to find good health information” scale than fourth-year students ( p = .016); 9) second-year students had lower scores on the “Understand health information” scale than fourth-year students ( p = .01); and 10) third-year students had lower scores on the “Understand health information” scale than fourth-year students ( p = .024).

A comparison of the means of the DVs based on the IVs that exhibited significant multivariate effects was made. There was a need to run five separate t-tests. Therefore, p values were adjusted in these follow-up analyses as follows: .05 ÷ 5 = .01. The results of these analyses are presented in Table 5 . The table also includes the effect sizes pertinent to each IV and the lower and upper bounds of the 95% confidence interval (CI) of difference. The effect sizes were calculated posteriori using G*Power (Version 3.1.9.2).

The current study was conducted in the hope of generating university-specific information regarding health literacy among college students. The authors conducted this research among college students for different reasons. Most importantly, the literature regarding health literacy, measured by the HLQ, in this population is scarce. College students spend a significant amount of time in a stressful environment, and they are at high risk for engaging in unhealthy behaviors. Having an adequate level of health literacy can help college students make appropriate decisions about their health. On the other hand, making inappropriate decisions and engaging in unhealthy behaviors, such as unhealthy eating [ 34 ] and getting less than the recommended amount of physical activity [ 35 ], negatively impacts academic achievement. The long-term effect of such health problems is detrimental as they increase the risk for life-threatening, chronic problems such as cardiovascular disease [ 36 ], metabolic syndrome [ 37 ], and mental health problems [ 38 ]. Therefore, understanding the health needs of young adults, through studying health literacy, is at the core of promoting health and preventing future diseases. The following subsections will address the interpretation of the current results within the context of the literature.

The overall level of health literacy

Although there is no cutoff score for determining limited health literacy using the HLQ, these results revealed some of the limitations of health literacy among college students in Jordan. The lowest averages for the scales with possible total scores of (one to four) and (one to five) were regarding the scales “Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers” and “Navigating the healthcare system”, respectively. A low score on the former scale indicates an inability to engage with and lack of having healthcare providers [ 7 ]. When the score of the latter scale is low, it reflects individual failure to advocate on his/her own behalf and the inability to find help using healthcare systems. Collectively, low scores on both dimensions negatively affect availability and access to valid health information pertinent to someone’s health needs.

Mean differences based on demographic characteristics

The MANOVA results showed that age, gender, smoking status, year of study, and field of study all affect the linear composite of the dependent variables (HLQ scales) in college students. Based on the results of the univariate and follow-up analyses, age did not have any detected effect on the level of health literacy. There is evidence in the literature about the effect of age on health literacy among college students, measured using S-TOFHLA [ 18 ]. However, administering the HLQ to college students revealed similar results to those reported in this study, with a significant effect of age only on the “Appraisal of health information” scale [ 24 ]. Similarly, age had a weak, positive correlation with the same scale of the HLQ in a study conducted in Denmark [ 25 ]. The effect of another related factor, year of study, revealed differences in the levels of some HLQ scales. Of most importance, the results showed that first-, second-, and third-year students had lower levels of health literacy in the following scales: “Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers”, “Appraisal of health information”, and “Understand health information”. This finding is consistent with the findings reported by other studies conducted using the HLQ [ 26 ] and the Adult Literacy Scale [ 27 ]. Further investigation is needed to explore how health literacy is affected by the year of study.

Regarding gender, the related literature provides mixed evidence regarding the relationship between college students’ gender and health literacy. The findings of this study showed that female students had higher levels of health literacy than males in the following areas: “Social support for health”, “Navigating the healthcare system”, “Ability to find good health information”, and “Understand health information” (Table 5 ). This is congruent with previous research findings for a study conducted among college students in Texas [ 24 ]. In contrast, a study conducted in China showed that male students had higher levels of health literacy than females [ 26 ]. Another study revealed no gender difference except for the “Social support for health” scale of the HLQ [ 25 ]. Such discrepancies could be attributed to different factors, including the variations in the educational systems and the sociocultural characteristics of college students [ 25 ]. Another possible explanation of the variation could be linked to the existing differences between the target populations. Whereas the target population of the current study was all college students (health-related and others), other studies targeted only health-related college students [ 25 , 26 ]. Despite these mixed findings, gender should be considered a source of health literacy disparity in college students. This could be useful for creating customized programs for improving health literacy among college students.

Our results suggest that college students’ smoking status is a significant determinant of health literacy. Compared to smokers, nonsmokers had a higher level of health literacy on seven out of the nine scales of the HLQ. A recent study addressed the importance of studying campus tobacco culture in determining health literacy among college students [ 39 ]. According to the Healthy Campus 2020 [ 40 ], a campus-wide healthy environment is enhanced by adopting an ecological approach that focuses on both community and individual determining factors of health. Creating and/or activating smoking-free policies is paramount. Moreover, understanding the health needs of college students who smoke, as reported in this study, provides invaluable information to build a healthy campus.

Many research studies report the overall level of education as a predictor of health literacy [ 28 , 30 , 41 ]. In this study, we intended to investigate a usually overlooked area: the effect of students’ fields of study on health literacy. The field of study, health-related vs. others, significantly affected all scales of the HLQ. Those in the health-related faculties averaged significantly higher scores than students from other faculties on all scales. College classification was reported as a significant predictor of college students’ health literacy [ 18 ]. The number of health education topics studied by college students was found in previous research to be positively correlated with the level of health literacy [ 21 ]. Elsborg and colleagues found that public health students had higher scores on the HLQ scales than students from other health-related faculties [ 25 ]. These findings are, however, inconsistent with the findings reported by Zhang et al., who found that engineering students had higher scores on HLQ scales [ 26 ]. Both the levels of significance and the calculated effect sizes reported in this study indicate a disparity that should be considered in studying health literacy in college students. The potential implications of this particular area are discussed in the following section.

Implications for health promotion and policy

The multidimensional nature of health literacy necessitates collaboration of efforts and utilization of the best available evidence about how it impacts health. However, evidence from the literature shows that health literacy is still an under-investigated phenomenon, especially outside the U.S. The larger study we are currently working on aims to improve the health promotion of college students and staff. Encouraging young populations, such as college students, to live a healthy lifestyle requires in-depth understanding of their health needs to build suitable health promotion interventions. In addition, a successful health promotion program is one that incorporates individual- and community-based information to create a healthy environment [ 40 ]. The results of this study highlight the disparities in health literacy as evidenced by variations based on the students’ age, gender, smoking status, year of study, and field of study. These results can be used to guide future investigations of the most effective intervention programs to enhance students’ health literacy and overall health.

A prominent finding of the current study is the lower level of health literacy in students from non-health-related faculties. Those students have apparent weaknesses in all dimensions of health literacy. The WHO’s publication Framework for Action on Interprofessional Education & Collaborative Practice calls for action to achieve better health through investing in interprofessional education [ 42 ]. Interprofessional education takes place when students from two or more fields learn about, with, and from each other [ 42 ]. Utilizing the resources available in educational institutions, health educators are encouraged to collaborate and create mandatory/elective courses and make them available to students from both health-related and non-health-related faculties. Such courses should be created considering the health needs of college students. Innovation in education through integrating evidence-based information with creative teaching strategies, such as project- and problem-based learning, seems promising. As the students work and learn together and from each other, the health outcomes will most likely be improved [ 42 ]. Additionally, the role of students from non-health-related faculties in disseminating educational and health outcomes is pivotal.

Limitations

Despite the limitation of relying on self-report measures, combining the data from the demographics questionnaire with the HLQ provided a broader range of information regarding college students’ health literacy. We tried to strengthen our research by obtaining and integrating data regarding the anthropometric measurements from college students. Our intention was to measure such fundamental parameters as weight, height, and skinfold. However, that could not be accomplished during the current phase of enrollment in the larger study due to an inability to secure an appropriate, private space to take these measurements. Our intention is to gather such data and integrate it into future research about health literacy and promotion. Regarding the sample, we employed two essential criteria during the recruitment of participants, as discussed earlier, to enhance the representativeness of the study sample for the overall university population. However, some groups were not equivalent, for example, the year of study (fifth-sixth year) and smoking status, which could impact the generalizability of the findings. The small number of international students who participated in this study raises concerns about the generalizability of our findings to this group of college students. In addition, using a nonprobability sampling method, purposive sampling, could limit the generalizability of the findings.

A successful health promotion approach is one that emphasizes the key role of disease prevention and health improvement starting with populations with fewer chronic health problems, such as school and college students. The results of this study showed that college students’ health literacy is influenced by demographic characteristics. Using the HLQ, we were able to identify the main health literacy needs and weaknesses of college students. The results could be used to guide future investigation regarding creating and examining the effectiveness of tailored interventional programs to improve college students’ health literacy. Finally, the disparity in health literacy based on the field of study provides promising information regarding the usefulness of interprofessional education in optimizing the health outcomes of college students.

Availability of data and materials

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

Abbreviations

American College Health Association

American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment

Ability to actively engage with healthcare providers

Actively managing my health

Appraisal of health information

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Confidence interval

Dependent variable

European Union

Ability to find good health information

Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers

Having sufficient information to manage my health

Institutional Review Board

Independent variable

Multivariate analysis of variance

National Assessment of Adult Literacy

Navigating the healthcare system

Quality of life

Standard deviation

Social support for health

Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults

Understand health information

World Health Organization

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Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the research assistants for their diligent work during the data collection and entry phases of this study.

This research was fully supported by the Deanship of Research at Jordan University of Science and Technology (Award number 82/2018). The Deanship of Research fully supported printing the paper-based questionnaires and provided the financial support to buy SPSS.

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Mohammed M. Al-Hammouri & Mohammed Aldalaykeh

College of Nursing, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA

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JR: roles included conception of the research idea, building the overall study design, and supervising the data collection. He performed the data analysis and prepared this manuscript. MMA: contributed to the conception of the main idea, made substantial contributions toward preparing the data collection tools, and assisted with the data analysis. He also revised and approved this manuscript. BD: substantially contributed to building the development of the research idea and the overall study design. She also revised and approved this manuscript. MA: performed the literature review and analysis pertinent to this study and made substantial contributions to the acquisition of the data. He also revised and approved this manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Jehad A. Rababah .

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Additional file 1..

an English version of the demographics questionnaire.

Additional file 2.

Distribution of the Health Literacy Questionnaire Scales.

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Rababah, J.A., Al-Hammouri, M.M., Drew, B.L. et al. Health literacy: exploring disparities among college students. BMC Public Health 19 , 1401 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-7781-2

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Health and Academics

Healthy students are better learners, and academic achievement bears a lifetime of benefits for health. Recent research illustrates that higher academic grades are associated with more positive individual and cumulative health behaviors among high school students. However, youth risk behaviors, such as physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behaviors, tobacco use, alcohol use, and other drug use are consistently linked to poor grades and test scores and lower educational attainment. 1

School programs can use the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model to promote positive health behaviors and lessen negative health behaviors. Looking beyond the classroom and into community organizations and other public or private partnerships can also reduce inequalities in educational achievement and health outcomes. 9

School programs that account for the individual, family, school, and community can positively influence both student health behaviors and learning. 2,3 Evidence-based, effectively coordinated, and strategically planned school health programs and services are also necessary for closing the academic achievement gap and promoting health equity. 4, 10

Research shows a strong connection between healthy behaviors and academic achievement (e.g., grades, standardized tests, graduation rates, attendance). 5-10 Data from the 2019 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) illustrate the prevalence of health behaviors among children and adolescents that can have a significant impact on learning and a lifetime of healthier living.

2019 YRBS Fact Sheets

Dietary Behaviors and Academic Grades
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors and Academic Grades
Tobacco Product Use Behaviors and Academic Grades
Alcohol Use Behaviors and Academic Grades
Other Behaviors and Conditions and Academic Grades

Explore the 2019 YRBS questions, tables, and graphs here .

Individual and Collective Positive Health Behaviors and Academic Achievement Among U.S. High School Students, Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2017
CDC MMWR: Health-related behaviors and academic achievement among high school students, United States, 2015 [PDF – 180 KB]
Healthy Youth: Health and Academics Fact Sheets
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Promoting Positive Adolescent Health Behaviors and Outcomes: Thriving in the 21st Century. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. 2020. https://doi.org/10.17226/25552.
Basch CE. Healthier students are better learners: High-quality, strategically planned, and effectively coordinated school health programs must be a fundamental mission of schools to help close the achievement gap. J Sch Health . 2011;81(10):650–662. doi:10.1111/j.1746-1561.2011.00640.x.
Michael SL, Merlo CL, Basch CE, Wentzel KR, Wechsler H. Critical connections: Health and academics. J Sch Health . 2015;85(11):740–758. doi:10.1111/josh.12309.
Bradley BJ, Greene AC. Do health and education agencies in the United States share responsibility for academic achievement and health? A review of 25 years of evidence about the relationship of adolescents’ academic achievement and health behaviors. J Adolesc Heal . 2017;52(5):523–532. doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2013.01.008.
Busch V, Loyen A, Lodder M, Schrijvers AJP, van Yperen TA, de Leeuw JRJ. The effects of adolescent health-related behavior on academic performance: A systematic review of the longitudinal evidence. Rev Educ Res . 2014;84(2):245–274. doi:10.3102/0034654313518441.
Basch CE. Healthier students are better learners: A missing link in school reforms to close the achievement gap. J Sch Health . 2011;81(10):593–598. doi:10.1111/j.1746-1561.2011.00632.x.
Rasberry CN, Tiu GF, Kann L, McManus T, et al. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health-related behaviors and academic achievement among high school students, United States, 2015. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report ( MMWR ) Full Report . 2017.
Hawkins GT, Lee SH, Michael SL, Merlo CL, Lee SM, King BA, Rasberry C, Underwood JM. Individual and collective positive health behaviors and academic achievement among U.S. high school students, Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2017. Am J Health Promot. 2021; 3: 1-11.
Liburd LC. After the Bell Rings: Looking Beyond the Classroom to Reduce Inequalities in Educational Achievement and Health Outcomes. J Public Health Manag Pract. 2019;25(6):581-583. doi:10.1097/PHH.0000000000000978
Hahn RA, Truman BI. Education Improves Public Health and Promotes Health Equity. Int J Health Serv. 2015;45(4):657-678. doi:10.1177/0020731415585986

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Research Topics & Ideas: Nursing

50+ Nursing Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Research topics for nursing dissertations and theses

Finding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation, thesis or research project. If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’re looking for a nursing-related research topic , but aren’t sure where to start. Here, we’ll explore a variety of nursing-related research ideas and topic thought-starters, including general nursing, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, obstetrics and gynaecological nursing, ICU and mental health nursing.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas within the nursing domain. This is the starting point, but to develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. In it, we cover the process of writing a dissertation or thesis from start to end. Be sure to also sign up for our free webinar that explores how to find a high-quality research topic.

Overview: Nursing Research Topics

General nursing-related topics
Medical-surgical nursing
Pediatric nursing
Obstetrics and gynaecological nursing
ICU nursing
Mental health nursing

General Nursing Research Topics & Ideas

The impact of cultural competence on patient care in the UK
The importance of evidence-based practice in nursing for patients with HIV/AIDS
The effects of workplace stress on nurse well-being and performance
The role of nurse-patient communication for patients transitioning from adolescent to adult care
The impact of technology on nursing practice and patient outcomes
The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare for the rehabilitation of patients post-surgery
The effects of fatigue on nurse performance in the emergency room
The impact of nurse staffing levels on patient outcomes in rural areas
The effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in managing chronic conditions: a case study of diabetes
The impact of patient-centred care on health outcomes for the elderly
The importance of patient safety in nursing: bedside nurse vigilance
The effects of empathy and compassion in critical care nursing
The role of nursing in disaster preparedness and response: a case study of the Haiti earthquake of 2021
The impact of the level of nursing education on patient outcomes
The importance of ethical considerations in frail care nursing practice

Topics & Ideas: Medical-Surgical Nursing

The impact of bedside care on patient outcomes in medical-surgical units
The role of the nurse in managing post-operative patient pain
The effects of nurse-patient ratios on patient outcomes in medical-surgical units
A systematic review of different approaches to patient education in medical-surgical units
The relationship between nurse-patient communication and patient satisfaction in medical-surgical units: perspectives and recommendations to improving patient satisfaction

Topics & Ideas: Pediatrics Nursing

The impact of family-centered care on pediatric patient outcomes with sickle cell anemia
The role of nursing interventions in promoting developmental and behavioral health in pediatric patients
The effects of play therapy on anxiety and pain in pediatric patients during hospitilisation
A systematic review of different approaches to pain management in pediatric cancer patients
The relationship between parent involvement and post-operative patient outcomes in pediatric units

Ideas: Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing

The impact of nurse-led prenatal care on maternal and fetal outcomes in African American communities
The role of the nurse in promoting sexual and reproductive health for women in the UK
The effects of midwifery care on maternal satisfaction of primiparous women and birth outcomes
A comparative study of different approaches to childbirth education for expectant mothers and partners: perceptions of control
The relationship between lactation support and breastfeeding success of primiparous women

Topics & Ideas: ICU Nursing

The impact of nursing interventions on patient outcomes in intensive care units in a developing country
The role of the nurse in managing palliative and end-of-life care in the ICU
The effects of family presence on patient outcomes and satisfaction in the ICU: A systematic review of the literature
A comparative study of different approaches to pain management for trauma patients in the ICU
The relationship between nurse-patient communication and geriatric patient outcomes in ICU

Topics & Ideas: Mental Health Nursing

The impact of nurse-led therapy on adolescent patient outcomes in mental health settings
The role of the nurse in promoting recovery and resiliency in mental health patients through group interventions
The effects of mindfulness-based interventions on stress and anxiety in mental health patients: A systematic literature review
A comparative study of the role of nurses in applying different approaches to patient education in mental health settings
The association between nurse-patient therapeutic alliance and patient outcomes in mental health settings

Nursing Dissertation & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a nursing-related research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various nursing-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

Nursing Workload and Interventions of Licensed Nurses in Nursing Homes: An Observational Time and Motion Study (Kang, 2021)
Missed Nursing Care: Accounting for Education, Experience, and Job Satisfaction in Registered Nurses (Bechard, 2021)
Examining Predictors of Attitudes and Knowledge of Registered Nurses and Nursing Students in Tennessee toward Pregnant and Perinatal Women with a Substance Use Disorder (Patrylo, 2021)
A Program Evaluation of the Organizational Readiness for Pathway to Excellence at Two Community Hospitals (Behling, 2021)
The Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic Policy Decisions on the Wellbeing of Nursing Home Residents in Missouri (White, 2022)
Battling A Parallel Pandemic: An Evaluation of Sustainable System-Level Nursing Support in Response To COVID-19 (Gifford, 2022)
Holistic Nursing Process Maps: a Tool for Student Nurses to Operationalize the Nursing Process to Increase Clinical Reasoning (Reyes, 2022)
Satisfaction and Work-Life Balance in Undergraduate Nursing Faculty: A Mixed-Methods Study (Crawford, 2021)
The Effect of Mindfulness Meditation on the Stress, Anxiety, Mindfulness, and Self-Compassion Levels of Nursing Students (Heinrich, 2022)
Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Case Studies in Undergraduate Nursing Students (Becnel, 2022)
A Telehealth Simulation Experiment: Exploring Prebriefing (Owen, 2022)
Perceptions of Lateral Violence Among Vocational Nursing Students, Associate Degree Nursing Students, and Bachelor’s Degree Nursing Students (Martha, 2022)
Nurse Educators’ Description of Ethics from a Disciplinary Perspective: A Qualitative Descriptive Research Study (Cuchetti, 2022)
A Literature Review of the Relationship Between Oral Health and Pneumonia Risk in the Geriatric Nursing Home Population (Swift, 2021)

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. This is an important thing to keep in mind as you develop your own research topic. That is to say, to create a top-notch research topic, you must be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

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If you’re still feeling a bit unsure about how to find a research topic for your nursing dissertation, thesis or research project, check out our private coaching services below.

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Topic Kickstarter: Research topics in education

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Articles on child well-being

Displaying all articles.

Rural students’ access to Wi-Fi is in jeopardy as pandemic-era resources recede

Gabriel E. Hales , Michigan State University and Keith N. Hampton , Michigan State University

Banning cellphones in classrooms is not a quick fix for student well-being

Lana Parker , University of Windsor

Are you and your partner thinking of separating? Here’s how to protect the kids’ mental health

Rachael Sharman , University of the Sunshine Coast

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Senior Lecturer in Psychology, University of the Sunshine Coast

Ph.D. Candidate and Research Assistant, Michigan State University

Professor of Media and Information and Interim Director of the Quello Center, Michigan State University

Associate Professor, Faculty of Education, University of Windsor

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244 Health Research Paper Topics For All Students
350 Best Health Research Topics and Ideas
250 Strong Health Research Topics for Students
Top 45+ Medical Research Topics for Medical College Students
201 Impressive Medical Researches Topics For Students
100+ Healthcare Research Topics (+ Free Webinar)

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COMMENTS

300+ Health Related Research Topics For Medical Students(2023)
Additionally, we will outline the crucial elements that every health-related research paper should incorporate. Furthermore, we've compiled a comprehensive list of 300+ health-related research topics for medical students in 2023. These include categories like mental health, public health, nutrition, chronic diseases, healthcare policy, and more.
151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024]
151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024] The important area of public health research is essential to forming laws, influencing medical procedures, and eventually enhancing community well-being. As we delve into the vast landscape of public health research topics, it's essential to understand the profound impact they have on society.
77 Exciting Medical Research Topics (2024)
For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you're a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from: Sleep disorders. Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person's overall health. Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics ...
100+ Healthcare Research Topics (+ Free Webinar)
Here, we'll explore a variety of healthcare-related research ideas and topic thought-starters across a range of healthcare fields, including allopathic and alternative medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, pharmacology and public health. NB - This is just the start….
Public Health Research Topics & Ideas (Includes Free Webinar)
If you're just starting out exploring public health and/or epidemiology-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you've come to the right place. In this post, we'll help kickstart your research by providing a hearty list of research ideas, including examples from recent studies in public health and epidemiology.. PS - This is just the start…
Health and Medical Research Topics: 300+ Ideas to Write About
Medical research topics are the ideas or concepts related to health and medicine. They often explore new treatments, developments in diagnosis, prevention of illnesses, or even the effects of lifestyle choices. The scope of topics in medicine is vast and can include such aspects: Clinical medicine. Biomedical research.
150+ Health Related Research Topics: Exploring the World
150+ Health Related Research Topics: Exploring the World. Health-related research is an ever-evolving field that plays a pivotal role in enhancing our understanding of various health issues, improving medical practices, and contributing to the well-being of society. Choosing the right health related research topics is the first and crucial step ...
150+ Public Health Research Topics & Ideas For Students
Air pollution and respiratory health. Water quality and its impact on public health. Climate change and health disparities. Occupational health and safety. Urban planning for healthier cities. Food safety and its implications for public health. Environmental justice and health outcomes.
80 Health Science Topics For Research Paper
While there are many apparent aspects to write about, take your time to brainstorm these health research topics: Wearing masks as culture versus the medical prevention practice. The immune response triggering of the Covid-19. Migration and propagation of Covid-19 and media conflicts. Analysis of the respiratory tract and the use of nasal swabs.
226 Hot Public Health Thesis Topics: Great List Of Ideas
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), public health is "the art and science of preventing diseases, helping to prolong life and promote health using organized efforts. Good examples of public health efforts include preventing outbreaks, educating the public on health choices, promoting fitness, preparing for emergencies, and ...
100+ Mental Health Research Topic Ideas (+ Free Webinar)
Here are a few ideas to get you started. The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression. Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy. The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation. Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
200+ Public Health Research Topics & Ideas for Papers
Public health research topics are areas of study within the larger field of public health. They cover diverse issues like community health, disease prevention, and health policies. These research topic ideas help us understand and improve global healthcare. They can explore various factors like environmental impacts on public overall wellbeing ...
30 Community Health Nursing Research Topics: A Complete Guide
Nursing Research Paper Topics. The impact of community health nursing interventions on reducing health disparities. Exploring the role of community health nurses in disaster response and recovery. Analyzing the effectiveness of school-based health clinics in improving student health outcomes. Investigating the barriers and facilitators of ...
Best Nursing Research Topics for Students in 2024
1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics. Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties. Discuss the impact of evidence-based respiratory interventions on patient outcomes in critical care settings. Explore the effectiveness of pain management protocols in pediatric patients. 2.
244 Health Research Paper Topics For All Students
Students will have to involve in intensive research to come up with captivating health research papers. Students pursuing health-related courses in college or university sometimes spend countless research hours coming up with health topics for research papers. So, d on't be afraid to get research paper help from our professional writers.
Current Topics in Public Health and related disciplines
Discover the articles that are trending right now, and catch up on current topics in Public Health and related disciplines. We will update our collection every few weeks; come back to this page to be on top of the latest conversations in Public Health and Medicine. ... Health Education Research, Volume 36, Issue 3, June 2021, Pages 286-294 ...
Emerging Topics in Public Health Research
Project Duration. 2022-07-18 — 2025-07-30. Methodology and Advanced Analytics Resource Center. Principal Investigator. Boodram, Basmattee. Funding Source. National Institute of Drug Abuse (National Institutes of Health) Reducing Opioid Mortality in Illinois. Principal Investigator.
14 Research Topics for Nursing Students
This research topic could explore strategies for improving nursing leadership and. Discover the best research topics for nursing students with our comprehensive list of 14 relevant and interesting ideas. Explore topics like patient outcomes, healthcare-associated infections, end-of-life care, cultural diversity, and more.
Frontiers in Public Health
Evaluating Public Health Strategies for Climate Change: Risk and Opportunities. Fabio Scarpa. Antonello Maruotti. Massimo Ciccozzi. 360 views. The most cited cited journal in its field, which promotes discussion around inter-sectoral public health challenges spanning health promotion to climate change, transportation, environmental change...
Public Health
This page lists various research-topics about public health to help researchers find relevant research articles. ... Alcohol-Related Brain Injury: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Rehabilitation. Alcohol-Related Brain Injury (ARBI) is an umbrella term used to describe the damage to the brain because of long-term heavy drinking. The symptoms of ARBI ...
Opening health for all: 7 Research Topics shaping a ...
To second this mission, we have picked 7 Research Topics that tackle some of the world's toughest healthcare challenges. These topics cover ensuring everyone's access to healthcare, life-limiting illness as a public health challenge, and the ethical challenges in digital public health. All articles are openly available to view and download.
Student health behavior and academic performance
This article reports on 28 health behaviors and habits and their impact on the academic performance of undergraduate students at a public university in the southern United States. The behaviors selected can be categorized in five categories: (1) sleeping habits, (2) working, (3) physical activity, (4) eating habits, and (5) alcohol, tobacco ...
Health literacy: exploring disparities among college students
Health literacy is a multidimensional concept that is considered a primary public health concern. This concept is often neglected in research, and the evidence regarding health literacy in college students is limited. The aim of this study was two-fold: to determine the needs and limitations of health literacy among college students and to explore the relationships among the nine dimensions of ...
Health and Academics
Health and Academics. Download the Health and Academics fact sheets. Healthy students are better learners, and academic achievement bears a lifetime of benefits for health. Recent research illustrates that higher academic grades are associated with more positive individual and cumulative health behaviors among high school students.
Research showcase brings to life the breadth and depth of public health
PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — While Public Health Research Day at Brown is typically referred to as a poster conference, the boards are basic backdrops to the real stars of the event: the student researchers. On Tuesday, April 2, enthusiastic conversations among nearly 160 researchers spilled out of the open doors of Alumnae Hall as School of Public Health students gathered to ...
Health policy and economics: What medical students should know
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped American life and medicine, providing even greater incentive for medical students to master the basics of these complex topics. Understanding health care policy and reform efforts in the U.S.—efforts that include Medicare, Medicaid, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the Children ...
A Guide to the Bachelor of Health Science Degree
A Bachelor of Science in Health Science (BHS) typically combines the study of biological, physical, and social sciences, health care-related subjects, and hands-on training, all of which introduce students more fully to the principles—and practice—of health care. Some BHS degree holders pursue entry-level administrative roles in health care ...
Human brains are getting larger. That may be good ...
Study participants born in the 1970s had 6.6% larger brain volumes and almost 15% larger brain surface area than those born in the 1930s. The researchers hypothesize the increased brain size may lead to an increased brain reserve, potentially reducing the overall risk of age-related dementias. The findings were published in JAMA Neurology.
Research Topics In Nursing (+ Free Webinar)
Here, we'll explore a variety of nursing-related research ideas and topic thought-starters, including general nursing, medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, obstetrics and gynaecological nursing, ICU and mental health nursing. NB - This is just the start…. The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps.
child well-being News, Research and Analysis
Rural students' access to Wi-Fi is in jeopardy as pandemic-era resources recede Gabriel E. Hales , Michigan State University and Keith N. Hampton , Michigan State University

151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024]

Overview of Public Health Research Topics

Key Considerations in Selecting Public Health Research Topics

Top 151+ Public Health Research Topics

Health Policy

Environmental Health

Infectious Diseases

Chronic Diseases

Maternal and Child Health

Health Behavior and Promotion

Global Health

Community Health

Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety

Mental Health

Health Disparities

Public Health Education

Digital Health

Health Economics

Innovations in Public Health

Food Safety and Nutrition

Substance Abuse

Occupational Health

Disaster Preparedness and Response

Cancer Research

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Cardiovascular Health

Social Determinants of Health

Genomics and Public Health

Public Health Ethics

Health Communication

Nutrigenomics

Public Health and Artificial Intelligence

Health Disparities in Aging

Research Methodologies in Public Health

Challenges and Opportunities in Public Health Research

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77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Focus on a particular field of study

Look into commonly researched topics

Get curious and ask questions

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Vaccinations

Artificial tissues fabrication

Sleep disorders

Alzheimer’s and dementia

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Human genetics

Sexual health studies

Gluten sensitivity

Pollution and lung health

Plant-based diets

Health supplements

The pros and cons of electronic health records

Inequities within healthcare access

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

Cancer treatment options

Pain medication alternatives

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Editor’s picks

Latest articles

150+ Health Related Research Topics: Exploring the World

The Significance of Choosing the Right Research Topic

Impact on Research Quality

Relevance to Current Health Issues

Contribution to Scientific Knowledge

How to Select a Health Related Research Topic?

Brainstorming Ideas

Conducting a Literature Review

Consultation with Advisors and Experts

Ethical Considerations in Topic Selection

150+ Health Related Research Topics: Categories Wise

Mental Health

Infectious Diseases

Healthcare Delivery