Databyte

Africa carries a larger burden of malaria than all other regions of the world combined. The most effective ways of preventing malaria, bed nets and indoor insecticide spraying, are more challenging than they sound.

50 to 70 million adults in the United States are not getting the sleep they need to keep them happy and healthy. Lack of sleep costs the U.S. around $15.9 billion per year.

Non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular and respiratory disease, diabetes, and depression, cause 70% of deaths globally.

The United States throws about 40% of its food away each year, costing about $218 billion. A recent report from the Natural Resources Defense Council shows what kind of food gets wasted and potential for food rescue.

Despite laws that have improved air quality and lowered emissions, “acceptable” air quality standards still expose Americans to levels of pollution that can be lethal.

Incarceration disrupts the wellbeing of families and communities. A comprehensive review in the Lancet documents how imprisonment has a disproportionate impact on black communities.

Social capital can improve mental health after disaster strikes. Strong social networks helped the elderly cope with housing damage in the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, per research in the Lancet.

Regardless of age, a majority of Americans surveyed feel that this is the lowest point in the nation’s history. Worries about the future are the biggest source of stress.

Americans are working longer to be eligible for Social Security benefits but a recent study in Health Affairs show delayed retirement is linked to worse health.

Alcohol death rates are at a 35-year high. Alcohol’s wide acceptance and stark increase in death rates requires national attention.