Tara Haelle is a science journalist specializing in medical research and science communication. She is based in Dallas, Tex.
Preschoolers Who Drink Daily Sodas Are More Likely to Be Obese by Age 5
In the wake of a failed New York City law to ban oversize sodas, new findings show the link between sugar-sweetened beverages and obesity starts as young as toddlerhood
Childhood Concussion Studies Butt Heads
Second and third concussions take more recovery time, new research shows, but many concussions are not adequately identified in the first place
Shooting the Wheeze: Whooping Cough Vaccine Falls Short of Previous Shot’s Protection
Long considered a conquered childhood disease, pertussis has made a comeback in the U.S., in part because the combination vaccine, DTap, appears less effective than its predecessor, DTP
Childhood ADHD Linked to Obesity in Adulthood
Increased risk of adult obesity is one of the long-term consequences facing children with ADHD, even if their diagnostic symptoms fade
From Baghdad to Boston: War Lessons on Amputations Help Blast Victims Walk Again
A decade of battlefield experience in Iraq and Afghanistan has led to better understanding of IED injuries that will likely improve the outcomes of survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing
Consumption Junction: Childhood Obesity Determined Largely by Environmental Factors, Not Genes or Sloth
In looking for ways to fight childhood obesity, an emerging consensus of literature points to the need to reengineer kids’ environments to change what and how they eat
5 Shark Species May Gain Protection Boost from New Findings
Two new studies make clear the global threat to sharks as well as some of the challenges conservationists face, just in time for an international meeting this week that could decide the fate of several of the iconic species
Putting Tests to the Test: Many Medical Procedures Prove Unnecessary—and Risky
The overuse of many medical tests and interventions wastes money and can actually harm patients, say over two dozen medical societies
Few Answers on How to Effectively Help Children Cope with Trauma
Evidence supports the effectiveness of some cognitive behavioral therapies, but barriers to research make it hard to offer specific recommendations in treating children exposed to traumatic events
U.S. States Make Opting Out of Vaccinations Harder
Legislative efforts aim to tackle the rising incidence of disease