In research conducted by Princeton University economists Anne Case and Angus Deaton, it was found that the lifespan divide between Black and White Americans has shrunk by 70% since 1990; however, the difference in lifespan between those that do – and do not – have a bachelor’s degree has more than doubled. Due to the onslaught of COVID-19, Case expects this educational divide to worsen. “Education turned out to be a really sharp knife in regard to death” Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
