For some people, religious leaders might be most effective at communicating the importance of COVID-19 vaccination

Two political scientists in their study in South Dakota found people trusted medical professionals the least when it came to public health messages.

David Wiltse, Associate Professor of Political Science, South Dakota State University • conversation
May 12, 2022 • ~6 min

In research studies and in real life, placebos have a powerful healing effect on the body and mind

Drug manufacturers often shun the use of placebos in clinical trials. But research suggests that placebos could play an important role in the treatment of depression, pain and other maladies.

Hans Schroder, Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, University of Michigan • conversation
Feb. 11, 2022 • ~11 min

It's still not fully understood how placebos work – but an alternative theory of consciousness could hold some clues

The mind is a powerful thing – it can generate both symptoms of illness and symptoms of healing. Here’s what this could tell us about consciousness.

Steve Taylor, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Leeds Beckett University • conversation
Sept. 8, 2021 • ~8 min

From the research lab to your doctor's office – here's what happens in phase 1, 2, 3 drug trials

Drugs and vaccines to fight the coronavirus are already in clinical trials. It is important to understand the difference between each step in this process as efforts to fight COVID-19 continue.

Mindy Aisen, Clinical Professor of Neurology, University of Southern California • conversation
June 2, 2020 • ~8 min

What is a clinical trial? A health policy expert explains

The only way to know if a medical treatment actually works is with a randomized-controlled trial.

Zoe McLaren, Associate Professor of Public Policy, University of Maryland, Baltimore County • conversation
May 13, 2020 • ~6 min

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