Public Health

Why Is It So Hard to Improve American Policing?

The techniques associated with "democratic policing" reforms are well-known. But they bump up against political and financial realities of the 12,000-plus local police agencies across the U.S.

Expert Warns of Risk Hurricanes Pose to Houston-Area Superfund Site

A Kinder Institute Fellow is sounding the alarm about the risks of an underwater Superfund site in greater Houston.

Politicians, Public Split on Gun Control in Texas

The country continues to react to the deadliest mass shooting in American history after 49 people were killed at a gay night club in Orlando early Sunday morning. The gunman, identified by the Orlando Police Department as Omar Mateen, was also killed, and more than 50 others were injured in the attack.

Urban Planners and Public Health Experts Rarely Work Together. That's a Problem.

Experts from the two fields are starting to collaborate -- but not nearly enough.

At the Harbach-Ripley Center, There's Always Something Afoot

Every week, 500 members of the community come through the center, where they take classes in everything from martial arts to vegan cooking.

Houston, With Its Mix of Poverty and Rain, is Especially Vulnerable to Zika Virus, Researchers Say

As the flood waters in Houston once again recede, residents anticipate the next challenge: mosquitos.

How the Worst Methane Leak in U.S. History Could Help Transform California’s Energy Grid

California officials advance plan to use restitution to spur energy innovation.

9 Things We Learned About Cities in 2015

With 2015 in the books, we revisit the most intriguing findings from Kinder Institute researchers this year.

Amid Climate Talks, One U.S. City Takes Especially Decisive Action

Experts say San Diego's efforts to fight climate change are unparalleled.

The Texas Medical Center has ambitious plans for a new Houston campus

Historically, the nonprofit Texas Medical Center has existed to coordinate infrastructure issues among its members. A proposed project shows just how ambitious the TMC has become.

What Happens To Kids As They Start To Lose Access To Food

Interpersonal skills and self-control suffer when students face food insecurity.

Jim Sallis Explains the Importance of Healthy Communities (And How We Can Get Them)

Active living expert James Sallis weighs in on the call to action.

What maps reveal about Houston’s health problems

Images help illustrate links between income, environment and disease.

What do Houston’s mayoral candidates think of our obesity epidemic?

Upcoming debate aims to shed light on public health issues

If You Want People to Stop Smoking, Show Them Their Neighbors Think it’s a Bad Idea

A new study suggests that where people live and who their neighbors are, could affect their likelihood to smoke while pregnant, despite health risks.