77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Medical research is the gateway to improved patient care and expanding our available treatment options. However, finding a relevant and compelling research topic can be challenging.

Use this article as a jumping-off point to select an interesting medical research topic for your next paper or clinical study.

  • How to choose a medical research topic

When choosing a research topic , it’s essential to consider a couple of things. What topics interest you? What unanswered questions do you want to address? 

During the decision-making and brainstorming process, here are a few helpful tips to help you pick the right medical research topic:

Focus on a particular field of study

The best medical research is specific to a particular area. Generalized studies are often too broad to produce meaningful results, so we advise picking a specific niche early in the process. 

Maybe a certain topic interests you, or your industry knowledge reveals areas of need.

Look into commonly researched topics

Once you’ve chosen your research field, do some preliminary research. What have other academics done in their papers and projects? 

From this list, you can focus on specific topics that interest you without accidentally creating a copycat project. This groundwork will also help you uncover any literature gaps—those may be beneficial areas for research.

Get curious and ask questions

Now you can get curious. Ask questions that start with why, how, or what. These questions are the starting point of your project design and will act as your guiding light throughout the process. 

For example: 

What impact does pollution have on children’s lung function in inner-city neighborhoods? 

Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise? 

How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children? 

  • 77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023

Need some research inspiration for your upcoming paper or clinical study? We’ve compiled a list of 77 topical and in-demand medical research ideas. Let’s take a look. 

  • Exciting new medical research topics

If you want to study cutting-edge topics, here are some exciting options:

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19. 

Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include:

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health

COVID-19 vaccination rates

The evolution of COVID-19 symptoms over time

New variants and strains of the COVID-19 virus

Changes in social behavior and public health regulations amid COVID-19

Vaccinations

Finding ways to cure or reduce the disease burden of chronic infectious diseases is a crucial research area. Vaccination is a powerful option and a great topic to research. 

Examples of vaccination-related research topics include:

mRNA vaccines for viral infections

Biomaterial vaccination capabilities

Vaccination rates based on location, ethnicity, or age

Public opinion about vaccination safety 

Artificial tissues fabrication

With the need for donor organs increasing, finding ways to fabricate artificial bioactive tissues (and possibly organs) is a popular research area. 

Examples of artificial tissue-related research topics you can study include:

The viability of artificially printed tissues

Tissue substrate and building block material studies

The ethics and efficacy of artificial tissue creation

  • Medical research topics for medical students

For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you’re a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from:

Sleep disorders

Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person’s overall health. 

Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics include:

How stress affects sleep quality

The prevalence and impact of insomnia on patients with mental health conditions

Possible triggers for sleep disorder development

The impact of poor sleep quality on psychological and physical health

How melatonin supplements impact sleep quality

Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise worldwide. They currently have no cure. As a result, research about these topics is in high demand. 

Examples of dementia-related research topics you could explore include:

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a chosen population

Early onset symptoms of dementia

Possible triggers or causes of cognitive decline with age

Treatment options for dementia-like conditions

The mental and physical burden of caregiving for patients with dementia

  • Lifestyle habits and public health

Modern lifestyles have profoundly impacted the average person’s daily habits, and plenty of interesting topics explore its effects. 

Examples of lifestyle and public health-related research topics include:

The nutritional intake of college students

The impact of chronic work stress on overall health

The rise of upper back and neck pain from laptop use

Prevalence and cause of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

  • Controversial medical research paper topics

Medical research is a hotbed of controversial topics, content, and areas of study. 

If you want to explore a more niche (and attention-grabbing) concept, here are some controversial medical research topics worth looking into:

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Depending on where you live, the legalization and use of cannabis for medical conditions is controversial for the general public and healthcare providers.

Examples of medical cannabis-related research topics that might grab your attention include:

The legalization process of medical cannabis

The impact of cannabis use on developmental milestones in youth users

Cannabis and mental health diagnoses

CBD’s impact on chronic pain

Prevalence of cannabis use in young people

The impact of maternal cannabis use on fetal development 

Understanding how THC impacts cognitive function

Human genetics

The Human Genome Project identified, mapped, and sequenced all human DNA genes. Its completion in 2003 opened up a world of exciting and controversial studies in human genetics.

Examples of human genetics-related research topics worth delving into include:

Medical genetics and the incidence of genetic-based health disorders

Behavioral genetics differences between identical twins

Genetic risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders

Machine learning technologies for genetic research

Sexual health studies

Human sexuality and sexual health are important (yet often stigmatized) medical topics that need new research and analysis.

As a diverse field ranging from sexual orientation studies to sexual pathophysiology, examples of sexual health-related research topics include:

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections within a chosen population

Mental health conditions within the LGBTQIA+ community

The impact of untreated sexually transmitted infections

Access to safe sex resources (condoms, dental dams, etc.) in rural areas

  • Health and wellness research topics

Human wellness and health are trendy topics in modern medicine as more people are interested in finding natural ways to live healthier lifestyles. 

If this field of study interests you, here are some big topics in the wellness space:

Gluten sensitivity

Gluten allergies and intolerances have risen over the past few decades. If you’re interested in exploring this topic, your options range in severity from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to full-blown anaphylaxis. 

Some examples of gluten sensitivity-related research topics include:

The pathophysiology and incidence of Celiac disease

Early onset symptoms of gluten intolerance

The prevalence of gluten allergies within a set population

Gluten allergies and the incidence of other gastrointestinal health conditions

Pollution and lung health

Living in large urban cities means regular exposure to high levels of pollutants. 

As more people become interested in protecting their lung health, examples of impactful lung health and pollution-related research topics include:

The extent of pollution in densely packed urban areas

The prevalence of pollution-based asthma in a set population

Lung capacity and function in young people

The benefits and risks of steroid therapy for asthma

Pollution risks based on geographical location

Plant-based diets

Plant-based diets like vegan and paleo diets are emerging trends in healthcare due to their limited supporting research. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the potential benefits or risks of holistic, diet-based medicine, examples of plant-based diet research topics to explore include:

Vegan and plant-based diets as part of disease management

Potential risks and benefits of specific plant-based diets

Plant-based diets and their impact on body mass index

The effect of diet and lifestyle on chronic disease management

Health supplements

Supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry. Many health-conscious people take supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, and more. 

Examples of health supplement-related research topics worth investigating include:

Omega-3 fish oil safety and efficacy for cardiac patients

The benefits and risks of regular vitamin D supplementation

Health supplementation regulation and product quality

The impact of social influencer marketing on consumer supplement practices

Analyzing added ingredients in protein powders

  • Healthcare research topics

Working within the healthcare industry means you have insider knowledge and opportunity. Maybe you’d like to research the overall system, administration, and inherent biases that disrupt access to quality care. 

While these topics are essential to explore, it is important to note that these studies usually require approval and oversight from an Institutional Review Board (IRB). This ensures the study is ethical and does not harm any subjects. 

For this reason, the IRB sets protocols that require additional planning, so consider this when mapping out your study’s timeline. 

Here are some examples of trending healthcare research areas worth pursuing:

The pros and cons of electronic health records

The rise of electronic healthcare charting and records has forever changed how medical professionals and patients interact with their health data. 

Examples of electronic health record-related research topics include:

The number of medication errors reported during a software switch

Nurse sentiment analysis of electronic charting practices

Ethical and legal studies into encrypting and storing personal health data

Inequities within healthcare access

Many barriers inhibit people from accessing the quality medical care they need. These issues result in health disparities and injustices. 

Examples of research topics about health inequities include:

The impact of social determinants of health in a set population

Early and late-stage cancer stage diagnosis in urban vs. rural populations

Affordability of life-saving medications

Health insurance limitations and their impact on overall health

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

People who belong to an ethnic minority are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions when trying to receive quality medical care. This is due to systemic healthcare racism and bias. 

As a result, diagnostic and treatment rates in minority populations are a hot-button field of research. Examples of ethnicity-based research topics include:

Cancer biopsy rates in BIPOC women

The prevalence of diabetes in Indigenous communities

Access inequalities in women’s health preventative screenings

The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in Black populations

  • Pharmaceutical research topics

Large pharmaceutical companies are incredibly interested in investing in research to learn more about potential cures and treatments for diseases. 

If you’re interested in building a career in pharmaceutical research, here are a few examples of in-demand research topics:

Cancer treatment options

Clinical research is in high demand as pharmaceutical companies explore novel cancer treatment options outside of chemotherapy and radiation. 

Examples of cancer treatment-related research topics include:

Stem cell therapy for cancer

Oncogenic gene dysregulation and its impact on disease

Cancer-causing viral agents and their risks

Treatment efficacy based on early vs. late-stage cancer diagnosis

Cancer vaccines and targeted therapies

Immunotherapy for cancer

Pain medication alternatives

Historically, opioid medications were the primary treatment for short- and long-term pain. But, with the opioid epidemic getting worse, the need for alternative pain medications has never been more urgent. 

Examples of pain medication-related research topics include:

Opioid withdrawal symptoms and risks

Early signs of pain medication misuse

Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control

  • Identify trends in your medical research with Dovetail

Are you interested in contributing life-changing research? Today’s medical research is part of the future of clinical patient care. 

As your go-to resource for speedy and accurate data analysis , we are proud to partner with healthcare researchers to innovate and improve the future of healthcare.

Should you be using a customer insights hub?

Do you want to discover previous research faster?

Do you share your research findings with others?

Do you analyze research data?

Start for free today, add your research, and get to key insights faster

Editor’s picks

Last updated: 18 April 2023

Last updated: 27 February 2023

Last updated: 6 February 2023

Last updated: 6 October 2023

Last updated: 5 February 2023

Last updated: 16 April 2023

Last updated: 7 March 2023

Last updated: 9 March 2023

Last updated: 12 December 2023

Last updated: 11 March 2024

Last updated: 6 March 2024

Last updated: 5 March 2024

Last updated: 13 May 2024

Latest articles

Related topics, .css-je19u9{-webkit-align-items:flex-end;-webkit-box-align:flex-end;-ms-flex-align:flex-end;align-items:flex-end;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;row-gap:0;text-align:center;max-width:671px;}@media (max-width: 1079px){.css-je19u9{max-width:400px;}.css-je19u9>span{white-space:pre;}}@media (max-width: 799px){.css-je19u9{max-width:400px;}.css-je19u9>span{white-space:pre;}} decide what to .css-1kiodld{max-height:56px;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;}@media (max-width: 1079px){.css-1kiodld{display:none;}} build next, decide what to build next.

best research topics in health

Users report unexpectedly high data usage, especially during streaming sessions.

best research topics in health

Users find it hard to navigate from the home page to relevant playlists in the app.

best research topics in health

It would be great to have a sleep timer feature, especially for bedtime listening.

best research topics in health

I need better filters to find the songs or artists I’m looking for.

Log in or sign up

Get started for free

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

  • View all journals
  • Explore content
  • About the journal
  • Publish with us
  • Sign up for alerts

Collection  29 March 2022

2021 Top 25 Health Sciences Articles

We are pleased to share with you the 25 most downloaded  Nature Communications  articles* in health sciences published in 2021. (Please note we have a separate collection on the Top 25 COVID-19 papers .) Featuring authors from around the world, these papers highlight valuable research from an international community.

Browse all Top 25 subject area collections  here .

*Data obtained from SN Insights (based on Digital Science's Dimensions) and normalised to account for articles published later in the year.

X-ray images of a human brain

Research highlights

best research topics in health

Association of sleep duration in middle and old age with incidence of dementia

Sleep dysregulation has been linked to dementia, but it is unknown whether sleep duration earlier in life is associated with dementia risk. Here, the authors show higher dementia risk associated with short sleep duration (six hours or less) in a longitudinal study of middle and older age adults.

  • Séverine Sabia
  • Aurore Fayosse
  • Archana Singh-Manoux

best research topics in health

Longitudinal analysis of blood markers reveals progressive loss of resilience and predicts human lifespan limit

Aging is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases and functional decline. Here, the authors investigate the fluctuations of physiological indices along aging trajectories and observed a characteristic decrease in the organism state recovery rate.

  • Timothy V. Pyrkov
  • Konstantin Avchaciov
  • Peter O. Fedichev

best research topics in health

Restoration of energy homeostasis by SIRT6 extends healthy lifespan

Aging is associated with increased frailty and disrupted energy homeostasis. Here, the authors show that SIRT6 overexpression extends the lifespan of male and female mice and demonstrate that SIRT6 optimizes energy homeostasis in old age, which delays frailty and preserves healthy aging.

  • A. Roichman
  • S. Elhanati
  • H. Y. Cohen

best research topics in health

Triptonide is a reversible non-hormonal male contraceptive agent in mice and non-human primates

No male contraceptive pills are currently available. Here, the authors use triptonide, a compound derived from a Chinese plant, to deform sperm so that they cannot move properly, thereby causing reversible infertility in male mice and monkeys.

  • Zongliang Chang
  • Weibing Qin

best research topics in health

Fasting alters the gut microbiome reducing blood pressure and body weight in metabolic syndrome patients

Nutritional modification including fasting has been shown to reduce cardiometabolic risk linked to western diet. Here the authors show implementation of fasting resulted in alterations to the intestinal microbiota, and circulating immune cells, improving blood pressure and body weight in patients with metabolic syndrome.

  • András Maifeld
  • Hendrik Bartolomaeus
  • Sofia K. Forslund

best research topics in health

Transneuronal delivery of hyper-interleukin-6 enables functional recovery after severe spinal cord injury in mice

The CNS has limited ability to regenerate following injury, Here, the authors show that a single injection of AAV-hyper-interleukin-6 in the sensory motor cortex results in corticospinal and raphe spinal tracts regeneration in the injured spinal cord as well as functional recovery in mice.

  • Marco Leibinger
  • Charlotte Zeitler
  • Dietmar Fischer

best research topics in health

Spatially resolved transcriptomics reveals the architecture of the tumor-microenvironment interface

During tumor progression, cancer cells contact different neighboring cell types, but it is unclear how these interactions affect cancer cell behavior. Here, the authors use spatially resolved transcriptomics and single-cell RNA-seq to study the role of cilia at the tumormicroenvironment interface.

  • Miranda V. Hunter
  • Reuben Moncada
  • Richard M. White

best research topics in health

Adjuvant oncolytic virotherapy for personalized anti-cancer vaccination

Viruses expressing tumour antigens can prime and boost anti-tumour immunity but the efficiency of this approach depends on the capacity of the virus to infect the host. Here, the authors show that vaccination with oncolytic viruses co-administered with tumour antigenic peptides is as efficient as antigen-engineered oncolytic viruses.

  • K. Geoffroy
  • M.-C. Bourgeois-Daigneault

best research topics in health

Detection and characterization of lung cancer using cell-free DNA fragmentomes

DNA from tumour cells can be detected in the blood of cancer patients. Here, the authors show that cell free DNA fragmentation patterns can identify lung cancer patients and when this information is further interrogated it can be used to predict lung cancer histological subtype.

  • Dimitrios Mathios
  • Jakob Sidenius Johansen
  • Victor E. Velculescu

best research topics in health

A randomized controlled trial of pharmacist-led therapeutic carbohydrate and energy restriction in type 2 diabetes

Community pharmacists are accessible healthcare providers with expertise in medication management. Here the authors show that a low-carbohydrate, low-energy diet implemented by community pharmacists reduced diabetes medication use and improved glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes.

  • Cody Durrer
  • Sean McKelvey
  • Jonathan P. Little

best research topics in health

A metabolome atlas of the aging mouse brain

Metabolites play an important role in physiology, yet the complexity of the metabolome and its interaction with disease and aging is poorly understood. Here the authors present a comprehensive atlas of the mouse brain metabolome and how it changes during aging.

  • Oliver Fiehn

best research topics in health

Investigating immune and non-immune cell interactions in head and neck tumors by single-cell RNA sequencing

The tumor microenvironment (TME) has an important role in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) progression. Here, using single-cell RNA sequencing and multiplexed imaging, the authors report the cellular complexity of the TME in patients with HNSCC, exploring inflammatory status, stromal heterogeneity and immune checkpoint receptor-ligand interactions.

  • Cornelius H. L. Kürten
  • Aditi Kulkarni
  • Robert L. Ferris

best research topics in health

Single-cell profiling of tumor heterogeneity and the microenvironment in advanced non-small cell lung cancer

Comprehensive profiles of tumour and microenvironment are critical to understand heterogeneity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, the authors profile 42 late-stage NSCLC patients with single-cell RNA-seq, revealing immune landscapes that are associated with cancer subtype or heterogeneity.

  • Fengying Wu
  • Caicun Zhou

best research topics in health

Biomimetic nanoparticles deliver mRNAs encoding costimulatory receptors and enhance T cell mediated cancer immunotherapy

Antibodies targeting OX40 or CD137, two T cell costimulatory receptors, have been shown to improve antitumor immunity. Here the authors design a phospholipid-derived nanoparticle to deliver OX40 or CD137 mRNA to T cells in vivo, improving efficacy of anti-OX40 and anti-CD137 antibody therapy in preclinical tumor models.

  • Xinfu Zhang
  • Yizhou Dong

best research topics in health

Sexual dimorphism in glucose metabolism is shaped by androgen-driven gut microbiome

Male sex is a risk factor for impaired glucose metabolism and type 2 diabetes. Here the authors identify that androgen modulates the gut microbiome, which drives insulin resistance and contributes to sexual dimorphism in glucose metabolism in mice.

  • Weiqing Wang

best research topics in health

Blood n-3 fatty acid levels and total and cause-specific mortality from 17 prospective studies

Associations between of omega-3 fatty acids and mortality are not clear. Here the authors report that, based on a pooled analysis of 17 prospective cohort studies, higher blood omega-3 fatty acid levels correlate with lower risk of all-cause mortality.

  • William S. Harris
  • Nathan L. Tintle
  • The Fatty Acids and Outcomes Research Consortium (FORCE)

best research topics in health

Multi-omics analysis identifies therapeutic vulnerabilities in triple-negative breast cancer subtypes

Triple negative breast cancer can be divided into additional subtypes. Here, using omics analyses, the authors show that in the mesenchymal subtype expression of MHC-1 is repressed and that this can be restored by using drugs that target subunits of the epigenetic modifier PRC2.

  • Brian D. Lehmann
  • Antonio Colaprico
  • X. Steven Chen

best research topics in health

Daily caloric restriction limits tumor growth more effectively than caloric cycling regardless of dietary composition

Caloric restriction (CR) has been shown as an effective intervention to reduce tumorigenesis, but alternative less stringent dietary interventions have also been considered. Here, the authors show that in a murine model of breast cancer CR has a larger effect on preventing tumorigenesis and metastasis compared to periodic caloric cycling.

  • Laura C. D. Pomatto-Watson
  • Monica Bodogai
  • Rafael de Cabo

best research topics in health

Neoadjuvant immunotherapy with nivolumab and ipilimumab induces major pathological responses in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Immune checkpoint blockade has become standard care for patients with recurrent metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Here the authors present the results of a non-randomized phase Ib/IIa trial, reporting safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant nivolumab monotherapy and nivolumab plus ipilimumab prior to standard-of-care surgery in patients with HNSCC. .

  • Joris L. Vos
  • Joris B. W. Elbers
  • Charlotte L. Zuur

best research topics in health

9p21 loss confers a cold tumor immune microenvironment and primary resistance to immune checkpoint therapy

The molecular mechanisms of resistance to immune checkpoint therapy remain elusive. Here, the authors perform immunogenomic analysis of TCGA data and data from clinical trials for antiPD-1/PD-L1 therapy and highlight the association of 9p21 loss with a cold tumor microenvironment and resistance to therapy.

  • Guangchun Han
  • Guoliang Yang
  • Linghua Wang

best research topics in health

Gut bacteria identified in colorectal cancer patients promote tumourigenesis via butyrate secretion

Several bacteria in the gut microbiota have been associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) but it is not completely clear whether they have a role in tumourigenesis. Here, the authors show enrichment of 12 bacterial taxa in two cohorts of CRC patients and that two Porphyromonas species accelerate CRC onset through butyrate secretion.

  • Shintaro Okumura
  • Yusuke Konishi

best research topics in health

Elevated circulating follistatin associates with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Follistatin promotes in type 2 diabetes (T2D) pathogenesis in model animals and is elevated in patients with T2D. Here the authors report that plasma follistatin associates with increased risk of incident T2D in two longitudinal cohorts, and show that follistatin regulates insulin-induced suppression lipolysis in cultured human adipocytes.

  • Chuanyan Wu
  • Yang De Marinis

best research topics in health

Tau activates microglia via the PQBP1-cGAS-STING pathway to promote brain inflammation

Brain inflammation generally accelerates neurodegeneration but the mechanisms of this are not fully characterised. Here the authors show that PQBP1 in microglia is important for sensing extrinsic Tau 3 R/4 R proteins and triggers an innate immune response through cGAS and STING resulting in cognitive impairment.

  • Hiroki Shiwaku
  • Hitoshi Okazawa

best research topics in health

Long-term treatment with senolytic drugs Dasatinib and Quercetin ameliorates age-dependent intervertebral disc degeneration in mice

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a leading cause of chronic back pain and disability. Here the authors show that long term treatment with senolytic compounds Dasatinib and Quercetin reduces disc senescence burden and ameliorates age-dependent degeneration in mice.

  • Emanuel J. Novais
  • Victoria A. Tran
  • Makarand V. Risbud

best research topics in health

DNA/RNA heteroduplex oligonucleotide technology for regulating lymphocytes in vivo

Using gene silencing to regulate lymphocyte function is a promising therapeutic approach for autommunity, inflammation and cancer. Here the authors use a heteroduplex oligonucleotide for improved potency, efficacy and longer retention times.

  • Masaki Ohyagi
  • Tetsuya Nagata
  • Takanori Yokota

Quick links

  • Explore articles by subject
  • Guide to authors
  • Editorial policies

best research topics in health

Grad Coach

Research Topics & Ideas: Mental Health

100+ Mental Health Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

If you’re just starting out exploring mental health topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of mental health-related research topics and ideas.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Mental Health Topic Ideas

  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Psychotic disorders
  • Personality disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance-related disorders

Research topic idea mega list

Mood Disorders

Research in mood disorders can help understand their causes and improve treatment methods. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

  • The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression
  • Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy
  • The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation
  • Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder: Environmental factors and treatment
  • The link between depression and chronic illnesses
  • Exercise as an adjunct treatment for mood disorders
  • Hormonal changes and mood swings in postpartum women
  • Stigma around mood disorders in the workplace
  • Suicidal tendencies among patients with severe mood disorders

Anxiety Disorders

Research topics in this category can potentially explore the triggers, coping mechanisms, or treatment efficacy for anxiety disorders.

  • The relationship between social media and anxiety
  • Exposure therapy effectiveness in treating phobias
  • Generalised Anxiety Disorder in children: Early signs and interventions
  • The role of mindfulness in treating anxiety
  • Genetics and heritability of anxiety disorders
  • The link between anxiety disorders and heart disease
  • Anxiety prevalence in LGBTQ+ communities
  • Caffeine consumption and its impact on anxiety levels
  • The economic cost of untreated anxiety disorders
  • Virtual Reality as a treatment method for anxiety disorders

Psychotic Disorders

Within this space, your research topic could potentially aim to investigate the underlying factors and treatment possibilities for psychotic disorders.

  • Early signs and interventions in adolescent psychosis
  • Brain imaging techniques for diagnosing psychotic disorders
  • The efficacy of antipsychotic medication
  • The role of family history in psychotic disorders
  • Misdiagnosis and delayed treatment of psychotic disorders
  • Co-morbidity of psychotic and mood disorders
  • The relationship between substance abuse and psychotic disorders
  • Art therapy as a treatment for schizophrenia
  • Public perception and stigma around psychotic disorders
  • Hospital vs. community-based care for psychotic disorders

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Personality Disorders

Research topics within in this area could delve into the identification, management, and social implications of personality disorders.

  • Long-term outcomes of borderline personality disorder
  • Antisocial personality disorder and criminal behaviour
  • The role of early life experiences in developing personality disorders
  • Narcissistic personality disorder in corporate leaders
  • Gender differences in personality disorders
  • Diagnosis challenges for Cluster A personality disorders
  • Emotional intelligence and its role in treating personality disorders
  • Psychotherapy methods for treating personality disorders
  • Personality disorders in the elderly population
  • Stigma and misconceptions about personality disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Within this space, research topics could focus on the causes, symptoms, or treatment of disorders like OCD and hoarding.

  • OCD and its relationship with anxiety disorders
  • Cognitive mechanisms behind hoarding behaviour
  • Deep Brain Stimulation as a treatment for severe OCD
  • The impact of OCD on academic performance in students
  • Role of family and social networks in treating OCD
  • Alternative treatments for hoarding disorder
  • Childhood onset OCD: Diagnosis and treatment
  • OCD and religious obsessions
  • The impact of OCD on family dynamics
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Causes and treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Research topics in this area could explore the triggers, symptoms, and treatments for PTSD. Here are some thought starters to get you moving.

  • PTSD in military veterans: Coping mechanisms and treatment
  • Childhood trauma and adult onset PTSD
  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) efficacy
  • Role of emotional support animals in treating PTSD
  • Gender differences in PTSD occurrence and treatment
  • Effectiveness of group therapy for PTSD patients
  • PTSD and substance abuse: A dual diagnosis
  • First responders and rates of PTSD
  • Domestic violence as a cause of PTSD
  • The neurobiology of PTSD

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

This category of mental health aims to better understand disorders like Autism and ADHD and their impact on day-to-day life.

  • Early diagnosis and interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • ADHD medication and its impact on academic performance
  • Parental coping strategies for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Autism and gender: Diagnosis disparities
  • The role of diet in managing ADHD symptoms
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders in the criminal justice system
  • Genetic factors influencing Autism
  • ADHD and its relationship with sleep disorders
  • Educational adaptations for children with neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders and stigma in schools

Eating Disorders

Research topics within this space can explore the psychological, social, and biological aspects of eating disorders.

  • The role of social media in promoting eating disorders
  • Family dynamics and their impact on anorexia
  • Biological basis of binge-eating disorder
  • Treatment outcomes for bulimia nervosa
  • Eating disorders in athletes
  • Media portrayal of body image and its impact
  • Eating disorders and gender: Are men underdiagnosed?
  • Cultural variations in eating disorders
  • The relationship between obesity and eating disorders
  • Eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community

Substance-Related Disorders

Research topics in this category can focus on addiction mechanisms, treatment options, and social implications.

  • Efficacy of rehabilitation centres for alcohol addiction
  • The role of genetics in substance abuse
  • Substance abuse and its impact on family dynamics
  • Prescription drug abuse among the elderly
  • Legalisation of marijuana and its impact on substance abuse rates
  • Alcoholism and its relationship with liver diseases
  • Opioid crisis: Causes and solutions
  • Substance abuse education in schools: Is it effective?
  • Harm reduction strategies for drug abuse
  • Co-occurring mental health disorders in substance abusers

Research topic evaluator

Choosing A Research Topic

These research topic ideas we’ve covered here serve as thought starters to help you explore different areas within mental health. They are intentionally very broad and open-ended. By engaging with the currently literature in your field of interest, you’ll be able to narrow down your focus to a specific research gap .

It’s important to consider a variety of factors when choosing a topic for your dissertation or thesis . Think about the relevance of the topic, its feasibility , and the resources available to you, including time, data, and academic guidance. Also, consider your own interest and expertise in the subject, as this will sustain you through the research process.

Always consult with your academic advisor to ensure that your chosen topic aligns with academic requirements and offers a meaningful contribution to the field. If you need help choosing a topic, consider our private coaching service.

You Might Also Like:

Public health-related research topics and ideas

Good morning everyone. This are very patent topics for research in neuroscience. Thank you for guidance

Ygs

What if everything is important, original and intresting? as in Neuroscience. I find myself overwhelmd with tens of relveant areas and within each area many optional topics. I ask myself if importance (for example – able to treat people suffering) is more relevant than what intrest me, and on the other hand if what advance me further in my career should not also be a consideration?

MARTHA KALOMO

This information is really helpful and have learnt alot

Pepple Biteegeregha Godfrey

Phd research topics on implementation of mental health policy in Nigeria :the prospects, challenges and way forward.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Print Friendly
  • U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Turning Discovery into Health

  • Virtual Tour
  • Staff Directory
  • En Español

You are here

Nih research matters.

December 22, 2021

2021 Research Highlights — Promising Medical Findings

Results with potential for enhancing human health.

With NIH support, scientists across the United States and around the world conduct wide-ranging research to discover ways to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability. Groundbreaking NIH-funded research often receives top scientific honors. In 2021, these honors included Nobel Prizes to five NIH-supported scientists . Here’s just a small sample of the NIH-supported research accomplishments in 2021.

Printer-friendly version of full 2021 NIH Research Highlights

20210615-covid.jpg

Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2

Advancing COVID-19 treatment and prevention

Amid the sustained pandemic, researchers continued to develop new drugs and vaccines for COVID-19. They found oral drugs that could  inhibit virus replication in hamsters and shut down a key enzyme that the virus needs to replicate. Both drugs are currently in clinical trials. Another drug effectively treated both SARS-CoV-2 and RSV, another serious respiratory virus, in animals. Other researchers used an airway-on-a-chip to screen approved drugs for use against COVID-19. These studies identified oral drugs that could be administered outside of clinical settings. Such drugs could become powerful tools for fighting the ongoing pandemic. Also in development are an intranasal vaccine , which could help prevent virus transmission, and vaccines that can protect against a range of coronaviruses .

202211214-alz.jpg

Portrait of an older man deep in thought

Developments in Alzheimer’s disease research

One of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s is an abnormal buildup of amyloid-beta protein. A study in mice suggests that antibody therapies targeting amyloid-beta protein could be more effective after enhancing the brain’s waste drainage system . In another study, irisin, an exercise-induced hormone, was found to improve cognitive performance in mice . New approaches also found two approved drugs (described below) with promise for treating AD. These findings point to potential strategies for treating Alzheimer’s. Meanwhile, researchers found that people who slept six hours or less per night in their 50s and 60s were more likely to develop dementia later in life, suggesting that inadequate sleep duration could increase dementia risk.

20211109-retinal.jpg

Photograph of retina

New uses for old drugs

Developing new drugs can be costly, and the odds of success can be slim. So, some researchers have turned to repurposing drugs that are already approved for other conditions. Scientists found that two FDA-approved drugs were associated with lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease. One is used for high blood pressure and swelling. The other is FDA-approved to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension. Meanwhile, the antidepressant fluoxetine was associated with reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration. Clinical trials will be needed to confirm these drugs’ effects.

20210713-heart.jpg

Temporary pacemaker mounted on the heart.

Making a wireless, biodegradable pacemaker

Pacemakers are a vital part of medical care for many people with heart rhythm disorders. Temporary pacemakers currently use wires connected to a power source outside the body. Researchers developed a temporary pacemaker that is powered wirelessly. It also breaks down harmlessly in the body after use. Studies showed that the device can generate enough power to pace a human heart without causing damage or inflammation.

20210330-crohns.jpg

Woman lying on sofa holding her stomach

Fungi may impair wound healing in Crohn’s disease

Inflammatory bowel disease develops when immune cells in the gut overreact to a perceived threat to the body. It’s thought that the microbiome plays a role in this process. Researchers found that a fungus called  Debaryomyces hansenii  impaired gut wound healing in mice and was also found in damaged gut tissue in people with Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Blocking this microbe might encourage tissue repair in Crohn’s disease.

20210406-flu.jpg

Nanoparticle with different colored proteins on surface

Nanoparticle-based flu vaccine

Influenza, or flu, kills an estimated 290,000-650,000 people each year worldwide. The flu virus changes, or mutates, quickly. A single vaccine that conferred protection against a wide variety of strains would provide a major boost to global health. Researchers developed a nanoparticle-based vaccine that protected against a broad range of flu virus strains in animals. The vaccine may prevent flu more effectively than current seasonal vaccines. Researchers are planning a Phase 1 clinical trial to test the vaccine in people.

20211002-lyme.jpg

Photograph of a mouse eating a piece of bait

A targeted antibiotic for treating Lyme disease

Lyme disease cases are becoming more frequent and widespread. Current treatment entails the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. But these drugs can damage the patient’s gut microbiome and select for resistance in non-target bacteria. Researchers found that a neglected antibiotic called hygromycin A selectively kills the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. The antibiotic was able to treat Lyme disease in mice without disrupting the microbiome and could make an attractive therapeutic candidate.

20211102-back.jpg

Young woman standing and holding back while working on laptop at home

Retraining the brain to treat chronic pain

More than 25 million people in the U.S. live with chronic pain. After a treatment called pain reprocessing therapy, two-thirds of people with mild or moderate chronic back pain for which no physical cause could be found were mostly or completely pain-free. The findings suggest that people can learn to reduce the brain activity causing some types of chronic pain that occur in the absence of injury or persist after healing.

2021 Research Highlights — Basic Research Insights >>

Connect with Us

  • More Social Media from NIH
  • Search Menu
  • Sign in through your institution
  • Browse content in Arts and Humanities
  • Browse content in Archaeology
  • Prehistoric Archaeology
  • Browse content in Art
  • History of Art
  • Browse content in Classical Studies
  • Classical History
  • Classical Literature
  • Classical Reception
  • Greek and Roman Archaeology
  • Digital Humanities
  • Browse content in History
  • Diplomatic History
  • Environmental History
  • Genocide and Ethnic Cleansing
  • History by Period
  • Legal and Constitutional History
  • Regional and National History
  • Social and Cultural History
  • Theory, Methods, and Historiography
  • World History
  • Browse content in Language Teaching and Learning
  • Language Teaching Theory and Methods
  • Browse content in Linguistics
  • Applied Linguistics
  • Language Families
  • Language Evolution
  • Lexicography
  • Browse content in Literature
  • Bibliography
  • Literary Studies (American)
  • Literary Studies (20th Century onwards)
  • Literary Studies (British and Irish)
  • Literary Studies (Women's Writing)
  • Literary Theory and Cultural Studies
  • Shakespeare Studies and Criticism
  • Browse content in Media Studies
  • Browse content in Music
  • Applied Music
  • Medicine and Music
  • Music Theory and Analysis
  • Musical Structures, Styles, and Techniques
  • Musicology and Music History
  • Browse content in Philosophy
  • Aesthetics and Philosophy of Art
  • Epistemology
  • History of Western Philosophy
  • Metaphysics
  • Moral Philosophy
  • Philosophy of Science
  • Philosophy of Mind
  • Philosophy of Mathematics and Logic
  • Practical Ethics
  • Browse content in Religion
  • Christianity
  • Judaism and Jewish Studies
  • Religion and Science
  • Religion and Law
  • Religion and Art, Literature, and Music
  • Religious Studies
  • Browse content in Society and Culture
  • Ethical Issues and Debates
  • Browse content in Law
  • Arbitration
  • Company and Commercial Law
  • Comparative Law
  • Competition Law
  • Browse content in Constitutional and Administrative Law
  • Parliamentary and Legislative Practice
  • Employment and Labour Law
  • Environment and Energy Law
  • Financial Law
  • History of Law
  • Human Rights and Immigration
  • Intellectual Property Law
  • Browse content in International Law
  • Private International Law and Conflict of Laws
  • Public International Law
  • IT and Communications Law
  • Jurisprudence and Philosophy of Law
  • Law and Society
  • Legal System and Practice
  • Medical and Healthcare Law
  • Browse content in Medicine and Health
  • Browse content in Allied Health Professions
  • Dietetics and Nutrition
  • Physiotherapy
  • Radiography
  • Anaesthetics
  • Browse content in Clinical Medicine
  • Acute Medicine
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
  • Dermatology
  • Endocrinology and Diabetes
  • Gastroenterology
  • Geriatric Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Oncology
  • Medical Toxicology
  • Rheumatology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Clinical Neuroscience
  • Community Medical Services
  • Critical Care
  • Forensic Medicine
  • History of Medicine
  • Browse content in Medical Dentistry
  • Restorative Dentistry and Orthodontics
  • Medical Ethics
  • Medical Skills
  • Medical Statistics and Methodology
  • Browse content in Neurology
  • Neuropathology
  • Nursing Studies
  • Browse content in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
  • Gynaecology

Occupational Medicine

  • Paediatrics
  • Browse content in Pathology
  • Clinical Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics
  • Medical Microbiology and Virology
  • Patient Education and Information
  • Browse content in Pharmacology
  • Psychopharmacology
  • Browse content in Preclinical Medicine
  • Molecular Biology and Genetics
  • Reproduction, Growth and Development
  • Primary Care
  • Professional Development in Medicine
  • Browse content in Psychiatry
  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Forensic Psychiatry
  • Browse content in Public Health and Epidemiology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health
  • Browse content in Radiology
  • Clinical Radiology
  • Interventional Radiology
  • Radiation Oncology
  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Browse content in Surgery
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Gastro-intestinal and Colorectal Surgery
  • Neurosurgery
  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Browse content in Science and Mathematics
  • Browse content in Biological Sciences
  • Aquatic Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Ecology and Conservation
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Genetics and Genomics
  • Microbiology
  • Molecular and Cell Biology
  • Plant Sciences and Forestry
  • Research Methods in Life Sciences
  • Structural Biology
  • Systems Biology
  • Zoology and Animal Sciences
  • Browse content in Chemistry
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Mineralogy and Gems
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Browse content in Computer Science
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Architecture and Logic Design
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Mathematical Theory of Computation
  • Browse content in Computing
  • Computer Security
  • Computer Networking and Communications
  • Browse content in Earth Sciences and Geography
  • Atmospheric Sciences
  • Environmental Geography
  • Geology and the Lithosphere
  • Meteorology and Climatology
  • Browse content in Engineering and Technology
  • Agriculture and Farming
  • Biological Engineering
  • Civil Engineering, Surveying, and Building
  • Energy Technology
  • Engineering (General)
  • Environmental Science, Engineering, and Technology
  • Transport Technology and Trades
  • Browse content in Environmental Science
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Management of Land and Natural Resources (Environmental Science)
  • Browse content in Materials Science
  • Ceramics and Glasses
  • Composite Materials
  • Nanotechnology
  • Browse content in Mathematics
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Biomathematics and Statistics
  • Mathematical Education
  • Mathematical Analysis
  • Probability and Statistics
  • Pure Mathematics
  • Browse content in Neuroscience
  • Cognition and Behavioural Neuroscience
  • Neuroscientific Techniques
  • Browse content in Physics
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Classical Mechanics
  • Relativity and Gravitation
  • Browse content in Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Health Psychology
  • Music Psychology
  • Neuropsychology
  • Organizational Psychology
  • Browse content in Social Sciences
  • Browse content in Anthropology
  • Human Evolution
  • Browse content in Business and Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Industrial and Employment Relations
  • Industry Studies
  • Information and Communication Technologies
  • Organizational Theory and Behaviour
  • Public and Nonprofit Management
  • Browse content in Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Criminology
  • Browse content in Economics
  • Agricultural, Environmental, and Natural Resource Economics
  • Behavioural Economics and Neuroeconomics
  • Econometrics and Mathematical Economics
  • Economic History
  • Economic Development and Growth
  • Financial Markets
  • Financial Institutions and Services
  • Health, Education, and Welfare
  • Labour and Demographic Economics
  • Law and Economics
  • Public Economics
  • Urban, Rural, and Regional Economics
  • Browse content in Education
  • Schools Studies
  • Teaching of Specific Groups and Special Educational Needs
  • Environment
  • Browse content in Human Geography
  • Economic Geography
  • Browse content in Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Communication Studies
  • Museums, Libraries, and Information Sciences
  • Browse content in Politics
  • Foreign Policy
  • Gender and Politics
  • International Relations
  • International Organization (Politics)
  • Political Sociology
  • Political Theory
  • Political Behaviour
  • Political Economy
  • Political Institutions
  • Public Administration
  • Public Policy
  • Quantitative Political Methodology
  • Regional Political Studies
  • Security Studies
  • Browse content in Regional and Area Studies
  • African Studies
  • Japanese Studies
  • Research and Information
  • Browse content in Social Work
  • Addictions and Substance Misuse
  • Browse content in Sociology
  • Economic Sociology
  • Gender and Sexuality
  • Gerontology and Ageing
  • Health, Illness, and Medicine
  • Migration Studies
  • Race and Ethnicity
  • Social Movements and Social Change
  • Social Research and Statistics
  • Social Stratification, Inequality, and Mobility
  • Sociology of Religion
  • Urban and Rural Studies
  • Journals A to Z
  • Books on Oxford Academic

What are the trending topics in Public Health and related disciplines?

You can identify some of the most discussed and influential topics with the help of Altmetric attention scores, which take into account several outlets including social media, news articles, and policy documents.

Drawing from a selection of Public Health and Medicine journals, we have compiled a list of the articles that have been mentioned the most over the past few months.

Discover the articles that are trending right now, and catch up on current topics in Public Health and related disciplines. We will update our collection every few weeks; come back to this page to be on top of the latest conversations in Public Health and Medicine. Previously featured articles are listed here .

You can also sign up for e-alerts to make sure you never miss the latest research from our journals.

*Last updated October 2021*

Age and Ageing

Alcohol and alcoholism, american journal of epidemiology, annals of work exposures and health, epidemiologic reviews, european journal of public health, family practice, health education research, health policy and planning, health promotion international, international health, international journal of epidemiology, international journal for quality in health care, journal of public health, journal of travel medicine, journal of tropical pediatrics, nicotine & tobacco research, transactions of the royal society of tropical medicine & hygiene, behaviour change interventions to increase physical activity in hospitalised patients: a systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression.

There is moderate-certainty evidence that behaviour change interventions are associated with increased physical activity levels among older hospitalised patients.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Alcohol and Other Substance Use Disorders in Young Adulthood: Findings from a Canadian Nationally Representative Survey

This study from Canada found that one in three young adults with ADHD had a lifetime alcohol use disorder, and that young adults with ADHD were also three times more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Targeted outreach and interventions for this extremely vulnerable population are warranted.

Expiring Eviction Moratoriums and COVID-19 Incidence and Mortality

According to this study, resuming evictions in summer 2020 was associated with increased COVID-19 incidence and mortality in US states, with an estimated 433,700 excess cases and 10,700 excess deaths. Explore more research on COVID-19 in a curated collection from the AJE: https://academic.oup.com/aje/pages/covid-19

The Development of a Covid-19 Control Measures Risk Matrix for Occupational Hygiene Protective Measures

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) developed a control banding matrix for employers and others to help assess the risks of COVID-19 infection, and calls for further work to validate the reliability of the tool. Browse the Annals' collection on occupational hygiene for virus protection: https://academic.oup.com/annweh/pages/covid-19 

Immunization to Protect the US Armed Forces: Heritage, Current Practice, and Prospects

In 1777, George Washington ordered a mandatory inoculation program for his troops, in what would become the first mass immunization mandate in the US. This archival article discussess and contextualizes immunization practices for US Armed Forces.

Does face mask use elicit risk-compensation? Quasi-experimental evidence from Denmark during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Responding to concerns that that face mask use could elicit a false sense of security and lead to riskier behaviours, this study from Denmark found that mask use overall correlated positively with protective behaviours.

Evidence reversals in primary care research: a study of randomized controlled trials

While medical practice is often undermined by subsequent investigation, randomized trials relevant to primary care generally hold up over time.

Social media influencers can be used to deliver positive information about the flu vaccine: findings from a multi-year study

This study shows the potential for using social media influencers to inspire positive engagements on pro-vaccine health messaging. For more content on accurate information's importance for public health, browse the latest article collection from HER: https://academic.oup.com/her/pages/covid-19

COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plans from 106 countries: a review from a health systems resilience perspective

Current emergency response planning does not have adequate coverage to maintain health systems functionality for essential health service delivery alongside emergency-specific interventions and healthcare. The findings from this study can help align health emergency planning with broader population health needs.

Rise and demise: a case study of public health nutrition in Queensland, Australia, over three decades

This case study shows that that ongoing efforts are needed to improve sustainability of nutrition policy and programmes to address all diet-related diseases.

Institutional and behaviour-change interventions to support COVID-19 public health measures: a review by the Lancet Commission Task Force on public health measures to suppress the pandemic

This review article outlines evidence for a range of institutional measures and behaviour-change measures, and highlights research and knowledge gaps.

Quantifying impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic through life-expectancy losses: a population-level study of 29 countries 

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered significant mortality increases in 2020 of a magnitude not witnessed since World War II in Western Europe or the breakup of the Soviet Union in Eastern Europe.

Gender in the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) Checklist

The authors propose an update to the Equator’s Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist, with the aim of enhancing inclusivity.

Rate of reinfections after SARS-CoV-2 primary infection in the population of an Italian province: a cohort study

This study confirms previous findings on a low risk of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. If confirmed, these findings suggest that more targeted restriction policies can be applied to the subjects that recovered after a first infection. Read highly cited papers on COVID-19 from the Journal of Public Health: https://academic.oup.com/jpubhealth/pages/covid-19

The reproductive number of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 is far higher compared to the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 virus

Given the Delta variant's high reproductive number associated with higher transmissibility, in a context of globally still low vaccine coverage rates and lower vaccine effectiveness, public health and social measures will need to be substantially strengthened. A high reproductive number also means that much higher vaccine coverage rates need to be achieved compared to the originally assumed.

Neurological Complications of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Neurological complications are rare in children suffering from COVID-19. Still, these children are at risk of developing seizures and encephalopathy, more in those suffering from severe illness.

Reactions to Sales Restrictions on Flavored Vape Products or All Vape Products Among Young Adults in the United States

The researchers examined support for and perceived impact of e-cigarette sales restrictions. Findings suggest that bans on flavored vape products could have a positive impact on lower-risk users, but that other young adult user subgroups may not experience benefit.

Covid-19 and Health at Work 

An editorial from the earlier stages of the pandemic highlights the importance of properly fitted respirators for worker safety and outlines occupational hygiene measures.

Lessons from the field: delivering trachoma mass drug administration safely in a COVID-19 context

Guidelines for safe mass drug administration for neglected tropical diseases were developed in a COVID-19 context; training and implementation were assessed through an observation checklist.

For more research on the impact of COVID-19 on NTDs, explore the March 2021 special issue: https://academic.oup.com/trstmh/issue/115/3

Previously featured

Age and frailty are independently associated with increased COVID-19 mortality and increased care needs in survivors: results of an international multi-centre study

Trajectories of Alcohol Use and Related Harms for Managed Alcohol Program Participants over 12 Months Compared with Local Controls: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Estimating the Effect of Social Distancing Interventions on COVID-19 in the United States

Selecting Controls for Minimizing SARS-CoV-2 Aerosol Transmission in Workplaces and Conserving Respiratory Protective Equipment Supplies

What Do We Know About the Association Between Firearm Legislation and Firearm-Related Injuries?

Denialism: what is it and how should scientists respond?

Acute cooling of the feet and the onset of common cold symptoms

The effect of falsely balanced reporting of the autism–vaccine controversy on vaccine safety perceptions and behavioral intentions

Climate change: an urgent priority for health policy and systems research

Power, control, communities and health inequalities I: theories, concepts and analytical frameworks

Research ethics in context: understanding the vulnerabilities, agency and resourcefulness of research participants living along the Thai–Myanmar border

Tobacco smoking and mortality among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults in Australia

Quality and safety in the time of Coronavirus: design better, learn faster

Years of life lost associated with COVID-19 deaths in the United States

In-flight transmission of SARS-CoV-2: a review of the attack rates and available data on the efficacy of face masks

Stability of the Initial Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder by DSM-5 in Children: A Short-Term Follow-Up Study

Impact of Tobacco Smoking on the Risk of COVID-19: A Large Scale Retrospective Cohort Study

Mental health of staff working in intensive care during COVID-19

The benefits and costs of social distancing in high- and low-income countries

A classification tree to assist with routine scoring of the Clinical Frailty Scale

Recent Advances in the Potential of Positive Allosteric Modulators of the GABAB Receptor to Treat Alcohol Use Disorder

The recent oubreak of smallpox in Meschede, West Germany

Your Hair or Your Service: An Issue of Faith for Sikh Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Emerging Infections: Pandemic Influenza

Identifying the views of adolescents in five European countries on the drivers of obesity using group model building 

Novel multi-virus rapid respiratory microbiological point-of-care testing in primary care: a mixed-methods feasibility evaluation

Public health crisis in the refugee community: little change in social determinants of health preserve health disparities

In search of ‘community’: a critical review of community mental health services for women in African settings

COVID-19, a tale of two pandemics: novel coronavirus and fake news messaging 

Disrupting vaccine logistics

Use of directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to identify confounders in applied health research: review and recommendations

Measurement and monitoring patient safety in prehospital care: a systematic review

Black Lives Matter protests and COVID-19 cases: relationship in two databases

The positive impact of lockdown in Wuhan on containing the COVID-19 outbreak in China

Severe Malnutrition and Anemia Are Associated with Severe COVID in Infants

A Single-Arm, Open-Label, Pilot, and Feasibility Study of a High Nicotine Strength E-Cigarette Intervention for Smoking Cessation or Reduction for People With Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders Who Smoke Cigarettes

Healthcare workers and protection against inhalable SARS-CoV-2 aerosols

Affiliations

  • Copyright © 2024
  • About Oxford Academic
  • Publish journals with us
  • University press partners
  • What we publish
  • New features  
  • Open access
  • Institutional account management
  • Rights and permissions
  • Get help with access
  • Accessibility
  • Advertising
  • Media enquiries
  • Oxford University Press
  • Oxford Languages
  • University of Oxford

Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford. It furthers the University's objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide

  • Copyright © 2024 Oxford University Press
  • Cookie settings
  • Cookie policy
  • Privacy policy
  • Legal notice

This Feature Is Available To Subscribers Only

Sign In or Create an Account

This PDF is available to Subscribers Only

For full access to this pdf, sign in to an existing account, or purchase an annual subscription.

  • Privacy Policy

Research Method

Home » 500+ Medical Research Topic Ideas

500+ Medical Research Topic Ideas

Table of Contents

Medical Research Topic Ideas

Medical research plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare and improving human health. It involves the scientific study of various aspects of medicine and health, including the causes, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. Medical research is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, with new discoveries and breakthroughs happening all the time. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from basic science to clinical research, and involves collaboration between scientists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals. In this article, we will explore some exciting new and latest medical research topic ideas that are currently trending in the field. These Research Topics cover a variety of areas, including genetics, infectious diseases, mental health, and more.

Medical Research Topic Ideas

Medical Research Topic Ideas are as follows:

  • The efficacy of mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • The effects of vitamin D supplementation on bone health in postmenopausal women
  • The impact of social media on body image and eating disorders in adolescents
  • The effectiveness of telemedicine in improving access to healthcare in rural communities
  • The benefits and risks of long-term use of statins for cholesterol management
  • The role of gut microbiota in the development of autoimmune diseases
  • The potential of gene therapy for the treatment of genetic disorders
  • The relationship between sleep disorders and cardiovascular disease
  • The use of artificial intelligence in diagnosing and treating cancer
  • The effect of exercise on cognitive function in older adults
  • The impact of environmental factors on the development of asthma in children
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for the treatment of PTSD in veterans
  • The potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy for the treatment of mental illness
  • The relationship between diet and risk of developing type 2 diabetes
  • The role of epigenetics in the development of psychiatric disorders
  • The impact of COVID-19 on mental health and well-being
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction in improving quality of life in cancer patients
  • The impact of childhood trauma on the development of mental illness in adulthood
  • The benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women
  • The effect of music therapy on reducing symptoms of dementia in older adults
  • The relationship between gut microbiota and obesity
  • The impact of socioeconomic status on health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of acupuncture in treating chronic pain
  • The use of stem cells in regenerative medicine
  • The impact of air pollution on respiratory health
  • The potential of nanotechnology in drug delivery
  • The relationship between social support and mental health
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for addiction treatment
  • The role of inflammation in the development of Alzheimer’s disease
  • The use of virtual reality in pain management
  • The impact of exercise on mental health in adolescents
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for the treatment of substance abuse
  • The relationship between sleep and weight management
  • The benefits and risks of using medical marijuana for chronic pain management
  • The role of the immune system in the development of autoimmune diseases
  • The effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation therapy for traumatic brain injury patients
  • The impact of maternal stress on fetal development
  • The relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular health
  • The potential of gene editing for the treatment of genetic disorders
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for reducing symptoms of postpartum depression.
  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • Investigating the use of virtual reality in pain management
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for depression
  • Exploring the relationship between sleep and anxiety
  • Examining the efficacy of telemedicine in delivering mental health care
  • Investigating the impact of environmental factors on the development of cancer
  • The effect of exercise on cognitive function in elderly individuals
  • Examining the potential benefits of psychedelic-assisted therapy for PTSD
  • The relationship between diet and cardiovascular disease
  • Investigating the impact of air pollution on respiratory health
  • Examining the effects of social isolation on mental and physical health
  • The use of machine learning in diagnosing medical conditions
  • Investigating the effectiveness of acupuncture in pain management
  • The impact of childhood trauma on mental and physical health outcomes in adulthood
  • Examining the relationship between stress and autoimmune diseases
  • The effect of music therapy on mental health outcomes
  • Investigating the impact of gender on healthcare outcomes
  • Examining the relationship between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions for chronic pain
  • Investigating the potential benefits of medical marijuana for chronic pain management
  • Examining the impact of climate change on infectious disease transmission
  • The use of robotics in surgery
  • Investigating the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk
  • The effect of meditation on blood pressure control
  • Examining the impact of social determinants of health on healthcare outcomes
  • The role of genetics in the development of mental health conditions
  • Investigating the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders
  • Examining the relationship between inflammation and depression
  • The impact of shift work on sleep and circadian rhythms
  • Investigating the potential benefits of probiotics in gut health
  • Examining the relationship between diet and mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of art therapy for individuals with dementia
  • Investigating the relationship between chronic pain and mental health outcomes
  • The impact of artificial intelligence on medical diagnosis and treatment
  • Examining the effectiveness of exercise in treating depression
  • Investigating the relationship between inflammation and cardiovascular disease
  • The effect of aromatherapy on anxiety and stress
  • Examining the impact of social support on mental health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of hypnotherapy in pain management.
  • The role of gut microbiota in immune system modulation
  • Effects of intermittent fasting on insulin sensitivity in obese individuals
  • Impact of smartphone usage on sleep quality and quantity
  • The potential therapeutic effects of CBD on anxiety disorders
  • Association between shift work and cardiovascular disease
  • Efficacy and safety of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in treating depression
  • The relationship between stress and autoimmune diseases
  • Novel therapies for Alzheimer’s disease
  • The effects of high-intensity interval training on metabolic syndrome
  • The role of epigenetics in the development of cancer
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality in pain management
  • The effects of social media on body image and eating disorders
  • The association between air pollution and respiratory diseases
  • Effects of mindfulness meditation on stress and anxiety in healthcare workers
  • The potential benefits of ketogenic diet in treating epilepsy
  • The relationship between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease
  • The impact of climate change on infectious disease outbreaks
  • The effectiveness of exercise in preventing falls in the elderly
  • The effects of blue light exposure on circadian rhythm and sleep quality
  • The association between alcohol consumption and liver disease
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • The role of gut-brain axis in mental health disorders
  • The association between chronic inflammation and cancer
  • The efficacy and safety of probiotics in treating irritable bowel syndrome
  • The effects of social isolation on mental health in the elderly
  • The impact of exercise on cognitive function in Parkinson’s disease patients
  • The association between vitamin D deficiency and autoimmune diseases
  • The potential therapeutic effects of music therapy in dementia patients
  • The effects of second-hand smoke on cardiovascular health
  • The association between maternal smoking and infant health outcomes
  • The role of microbiome in the development of allergies
  • The association between sleep duration and obesity
  • The effects of blue light-blocking glasses on sleep quality and quantity
  • The potential therapeutic effects of ketamine in treating depression
  • The association between gut dysbiosis and inflammatory bowel disease
  • The effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation therapy in traumatic brain injury patients
  • The impact of early childhood stress on adult mental health
  • The role of inflammation in the development of type 2 diabetes
  • The potential benefits of plant-based diets in preventing chronic diseases.
  • The effects of exercise on cognitive function in aging adults
  • The association between sleep disorders and cardiovascular disease
  • The potential therapeutic effects of psilocybin in treating addiction
  • The role of gut microbiota in the development of autism spectrum disorder
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in treating depression
  • The effects of air pollution on cognitive function
  • The association between maternal mental health and child development
  • The potential therapeutic effects of cannabis in treating chronic pain
  • The role of diet in the prevention and management of diabetes
  • The effects of social support on mental health in cancer patients
  • The association between shift work and mental health disorders
  • The efficacy of antiviral therapies in treating COVID-19
  • The effects of exercise on bone health in postmenopausal women
  • The association between sleep disorders and obesity
  • The potential therapeutic effects of mindfulness meditation in treating anxiety disorders
  • The role of gut microbiota in the development of metabolic disorders
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in treating phobias
  • The association between social support and immune system function
  • The impact of early life stress on adult cardiovascular health
  • The potential benefits of intermittent fasting in cancer prevention
  • The effects of air pollution on pregnancy outcomes
  • The association between maternal obesity and child health outcomes
  • The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating post-traumatic stress disorder
  • The effects of sedentary behavior on metabolic health
  • The potential therapeutic effects of omega-3 fatty acids in treating depression
  • The role of microbiome in the development of obesity
  • The association between social isolation and cognitive decline in older adults
  • The impact of environmental toxins on child development
  • The potential benefits of plant-based diets in treating metabolic disorders
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function
  • The association between maternal stress and fetal development
  • The efficacy of pharmacological interventions in treating anxiety disorders
  • The effects of air pollution on respiratory health in children
  • The association between social support and cardiovascular health
  • The potential therapeutic effects of mindfulness meditation in treating chronic pain
  • The role of diet in the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease
  • The effects of exercise on mental health in children and adolescents
  • The association between social support and cancer survival rates
  • The impact of environmental factors on epigenetic modifications and disease susceptibility.
  • The effects of exercise on immune function
  • The association between maternal obesity and infant health outcomes
  • The impact of air pollution on cognitive function in children
  • The association between sleep deprivation and mental health disorders
  • The effectiveness of virtual reality in rehabilitation after stroke
  • The role of the microbiome in the development of obesity
  • The impact of noise pollution on cardiovascular health
  • The association between depression and cardiovascular disease
  • The association between periodontal disease and cardiovascular health
  • The impact of social support on mental health outcomes in cancer patients
  • The potential therapeutic effects of melatonin in treating sleep disorders
  • The association between air pollution and cognitive decline in older adults
  • The effectiveness of group therapy in treating social anxiety disorder
  • The impact of exercise on bone health in postmenopausal women
  • The association between alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk
  • The effects of blue light exposure on melatonin secretion and sleep quality
  • The potential therapeutic effects of stem cells in treating Parkinson’s disease
  • The role of inflammation in the development of depression
  • The association between gut dysbiosis and depression
  • The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing anxiety in cancer patients
  • The impact of social media on mental health in adolescents
  • The potential therapeutic effects of ketamine in treating post-traumatic stress disorder
  • The association between vitamin D deficiency and cardiovascular disease
  • The effects of chronic stress on immune function
  • The potential benefits of Mediterranean diet in preventing cardiovascular disease
  • The impact of noise pollution on sleep quality and quantity
  • The association between sedentary behavior and depression
  • The effects of air pollution on fetal development and pregnancy outcomes
  • The potential therapeutic effects of acupuncture in treating anxiety disorders
  • The role of microbiome in the development of multiple sclerosis
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based stress reduction in treating chronic pain
  • The impact of artificial sweeteners on metabolic health
  • The association between sleep duration and cardiovascular disease
  • The effects of social isolation on immune function in older adults
  • The potential therapeutic effects of omega-3 fatty acids in treating depression.
  • The effects of exercise on cognitive function in older adults
  • The association between maternal mental health and infant development
  • The potential therapeutic effects of probiotics in treating depression
  • The impact of air pollution on lung health in children
  • The association between sleep quality and academic performance in adolescents
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating insomnia
  • The role of gut microbiota in the development of metabolic syndrome
  • The potential therapeutic effects of ayahuasca in treating addiction
  • The impact of green space on mental health in urban areas
  • The association between sedentary behavior and cardiometabolic risk factors
  • The effects of blue light on mood and cognitive performance in shift workers
  • The potential benefits of vegan diets in preventing chronic diseases
  • The impact of social support on mental health in older adults
  • The association between air pollution and lung cancer risk
  • The effects of exercise on mental health in cancer survivors
  • The potential therapeutic effects of ketamine in treating bipolar disorder
  • The role of the microbiome in the development of rheumatoid arthritis
  • The association between maternal nutrition and fetal development
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on immune function
  • The potential benefits of mindfulness meditation in managing chronic pain
  • The impact of noise pollution on sleep-disordered breathing
  • The association between sedentary behavior and breast cancer risk
  • The effects of blue light exposure on retinal health
  • The potential therapeutic effects of deep brain stimulation in treating depression
  • The role of gut microbiota in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • The association between air pollution and neurodegenerative diseases
  • The effects of social support on immune function in cancer patients
  • The potential therapeutic effects of acupuncture in treating migraines
  • The impact of light pollution on sleep quality and quantity
  • The association between sedentary behavior and type 2 diabetes risk
  • The effects of mindfulness meditation on cognitive function in older adults
  • The potential benefits of the DASH diet in preventing hypertension
  • The impact of social media on body dissatisfaction and eating disorders in adolescents
  • The association between air pollution and kidney disease
  • The effects of chronic stress on cardiovascular health
  • The potential therapeutic effects of gene therapy in treating inherited diseases
  • The role of microbiome in the development of atopic dermatitis
  • The association between maternal smoking and childhood obesity
  • The effects of blue light exposure on visual function and eye health
  • The potential therapeutic effects of electroconvulsive therapy in treating depression.

Healthcare Research Topics for College Students

  • The impact of healthcare policies on patient outcomes
  • The effectiveness of telemedicine in improving access to healthcare
  • The role of cultural competency in healthcare delivery
  • The impact of social determinants of health on healthcare outcomes
  • The effectiveness of different types of healthcare interventions
  • The role of genetics in predicting and preventing chronic diseases
  • The impact of the opioid epidemic on healthcare delivery
  • The effectiveness of alternative medicine in managing chronic conditions
  • The role of technology in improving patient safety
  • The impact of healthcare provider burnout on patient care
  • The effectiveness of different healthcare models in managing chronic diseases
  • The role of patient education in improving healthcare outcomes
  • The impact of healthcare disparities on access to care and health outcomes
  • The effectiveness of healthcare systems in responding to public health emergencies
  • The role of nutrition in disease prevention and management
  • The impact of healthcare policy on healthcare costs and spending
  • The effectiveness of mental health interventions in improving overall health outcomes
  • The role of healthcare systems in addressing health disparities
  • The impact of healthcare data analytics on clinical decision making
  • The effectiveness of healthcare interventions in reducing healthcare-associated infections
  • The role of patient-centered care in improving healthcare outcomes
  • The impact of healthcare regulations on patient safety
  • The effectiveness of vaccination programs in preventing infectious diseases
  • The role of healthcare systems in promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors
  • The impact of chronic diseases on healthcare costs and quality of life
  • The effectiveness of preventative healthcare in improving health outcomes
  • The role of healthcare technology in improving healthcare delivery
  • The impact of healthcare funding on healthcare outcomes
  • The effectiveness of healthcare interventions in managing chronic pain
  • The role of healthcare providers in promoting health equity.

Community Medicine Research Topics for Medical Students

  • The impact of community-based interventions on reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases in low-income communities.
  • The effectiveness of vaccination campaigns in preventing infectious diseases in marginalized communities.
  • The relationship between air pollution and respiratory health in urban communities.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of substance abuse among homeless populations.
  • The impact of social determinants of health on health outcomes in rural communities.
  • The role of community health workers in improving maternal and child health outcomes in low-resource settings.
  • The association between food insecurity and obesity in low-income populations.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of mental health disorders among adolescents in urban communities.
  • The effectiveness of school-based health promotion programs in improving health behaviors among children and adolescents.
  • The role of community-based participatory research in addressing health disparities in underserved populations.
  • The impact of social support networks on mental health outcomes among elderly populations.
  • The relationship between access to healthcare services and health outcomes in rural communities.
  • The effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions in reducing the burden of tobacco-related diseases.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of sexually transmitted infections among young adults in urban communities.
  • The role of community-based organizations in promoting healthy behaviors and preventing chronic diseases.
  • The impact of climate change on the incidence and distribution of infectious diseases.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of intimate partner violence among women in low-income communities.
  • The effectiveness of health education programs in improving health literacy and health outcomes in underserved populations.
  • The relationship between social support and adherence to treatment among patients with chronic diseases.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of hypertension and diabetes in urban communities.
  • The impact of community-based interventions on reducing healthcare costs and improving health outcomes.
  • The role of mobile health technologies in improving access to healthcare services in rural communities.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of obesity among children and adolescents in low-income communities.
  • The effectiveness of community-based interventions in promoting healthy behaviors among pregnant women.
  • The impact of housing conditions on health outcomes in marginalized communities.
  • The relationship between access to healthy food and health outcomes in urban communities.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of depression among elderly populations in rural communities.
  • The role of social media in promoting healthy behaviors and preventing diseases among young adults.
  • The effectiveness of telemedicine in improving access to healthcare services in underserved populations.
  • The prevalence and risk factors of infectious diseases among migrant populations in urban areas.

Surgery Research Topics for Medical Students

  • The efficacy and safety of minimally invasive surgery for various conditions
  • Comparison of laparoscopic and open surgery for common procedures
  • The impact of surgeon experience on surgical outcomes
  • Analysis of postoperative complications and their management
  • The role of robotics in surgery
  • Investigating the use of artificial intelligence in surgery
  • The effectiveness of non-pharmacological pain management techniques after surgery
  • The effect of preoperative anxiety on postoperative recovery
  • Evaluation of different surgical approaches for breast cancer treatment
  • The benefits and risks of surgical treatment for obesity
  • Investigating the use of stem cells in tissue repair following surgery
  • The influence of nutrition on postoperative recovery and wound healing
  • Analysis of the psychological impact of surgery on patients
  • The effect of different anesthesia methods on postoperative outcomes
  • Comparison of outcomes between day surgery and inpatient surgery
  • Evaluation of the use of surgical checklists in improving patient safety
  • The impact of age on surgical outcomes and recovery
  • Investigating the use of 3D printing in surgical planning and implant design
  • The benefits and risks of bariatric surgery in patients with diabetes
  • The role of surgery in the treatment of chronic pain
  • The efficacy of arthroscopic surgery for joint conditions
  • The use of lasers in surgery
  • Investigating the use of virtual reality in surgical training and education
  • The effect of preoperative counseling on patient satisfaction and outcomes
  • The impact of comorbidities on surgical outcomes
  • Analysis of the economic impact of different surgical approaches
  • Investigating the use of telemedicine in surgical consultations and follow-up care
  • The effectiveness of surgical treatment for endometriosis
  • Comparison of outcomes between single-incision and multiport laparoscopic surgery
  • The use of robotics in urologic surgery.

Research Projects for Undergraduate Medical Students

  • Investigating the role of genetics in the development of cancer
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of different types of pain management strategies in postoperative patients
  • Evaluating the impact of diet and exercise on obesity-related health outcomes
  • Examining the relationship between sleep quality and mental health in medical students
  • Investigating the efficacy of different types of antibiotics in treating common bacterial infections
  • Analyzing the impact of electronic medical record systems on patient care
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different types of vaccines in preventing infectious diseases
  • Examining the relationship between maternal nutrition and fetal development
  • Investigating the use of telemedicine in delivering healthcare services to rural populations
  • Analyzing the impact of smoking on lung function and respiratory health
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different types of rehabilitation programs for stroke patients
  • Examining the relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular health
  • Investigating the use of stem cells in treating various medical conditions
  • Analyzing the impact of stress on mental and physical health outcomes
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different types of medical interventions in managing chronic pain
  • Examining the relationship between social support and mental health outcomes in patients with chronic illnesses
  • Investigating the use of mindfulness-based interventions in reducing anxiety and depression
  • Analyzing the impact of environmental factors on health outcomes in urban populations
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different types of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery
  • Examining the relationship between nutrition and mental health in older adults
  • Investigating the use of mobile health technologies in promoting healthy behaviors
  • Analyzing the impact of air pollution on respiratory health in children
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different types of treatments for substance use disorders
  • Examining the relationship between socioeconomic status and health outcomes
  • Investigating the use of music therapy in managing pain and anxiety in hospitalized patients
  • Analyzing the impact of social media on mental health outcomes in adolescents
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of different types of interventions in managing symptoms of depression and anxiety in cancer patients
  • Examining the relationship between sleep and cognitive function in older adults
  • Investigating the use of animal-assisted therapy in promoting physical and mental health
  • Analyzing the impact of climate change on health outcomes in vulnerable populations

About the author

' src=

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

You may also like

American History Research Paper Topics

300+ American History Research Paper Topics

Funny Research Topics

200+ Funny Research Topics

Physics Research Topics

500+ Physics Research Topics

Interesting Research Topics

300+ Interesting Research Topics

Sports Research Topics

500+ Sports Research Topics

Astronomy Research Topics

500+ Astronomy Research Topics

  • Fact sheets
  • Facts in pictures

Publications

  • Questions and answers
  • Tools and toolkits
  • HIV and AIDS
  • Hypertension
  • Mental disorders
  • Top 10 causes of death
  • All countries
  • Eastern Mediterranean
  • South-East Asia
  • Western Pacific
  • Data by country
  • Country presence 
  • Country strengthening 
  • Country cooperation strategies 
  • News releases
  • Feature stories
  • Press conferences
  • Commentaries
  • Photo library
  • Afghanistan
  • Cholera 
  • Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
  • Greater Horn of Africa
  • Israel and occupied Palestinian territory
  • Disease Outbreak News
  • Situation reports
  • Weekly Epidemiological Record
  • Surveillance
  • Health emergency appeal
  • International Health Regulations
  • Independent Oversight and Advisory Committee
  • Classifications
  • Data collections
  • Global Health Estimates
  • Mortality Database
  • Sustainable Development Goals
  • Health Inequality Monitor
  • Global Progress
  • Data collection tools
  • Global Health Observatory
  • Insights and visualizations
  • COVID excess deaths
  • World Health Statistics
  • Partnerships
  • Committees and advisory groups
  • Collaborating centres
  • Technical teams
  • Organizational structure
  • Initiatives
  • General Programme of Work
  • WHO Academy
  • Investment in WHO
  • WHO Foundation
  • External audit
  • Financial statements
  • Internal audit and investigations 
  • Programme Budget
  • Results reports
  • Governing bodies
  • World Health Assembly
  • Executive Board
  • Member States Portal
  • Health topics /

Research is indispensable for resolving public health challenges – whether it be tackling diseases of poverty, responding to rise of chronic diseases,  or ensuring that mothers have access to safe delivery practices.

Likewise, shared vulnerability to global threats, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome, Ebola virus disease, Zika virus and avian influenza has mobilized global research efforts in support of enhancing capacity for preparedness and response. Research is strengthening surveillance, rapid diagnostics and development of vaccines and medicines.

Public-private partnerships and other innovative mechanisms for research are concentrating on neglected diseases in order to stimulate the development of vaccines, drugs and diagnostics where market forces alone are insufficient.

Research for health spans 5 generic areas of activity:

  • measuring the magnitude and distribution of the health problem;
  • understanding the diverse causes or the determinants of the problem, whether they are due to biological, behavioural, social or environmental factors;
  • developing solutions or interventions that will help to prevent or mitigate the problem;
  • implementing or delivering solutions through policies and programmes; and
  • evaluating the impact of these solutions on the level and distribution of the problem.

High-quality research is essential to fulfilling WHO’s mandate for the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health. One of the Organization’s core functions is to set international norms, standards and guidelines, including setting international standards for research.

Under the “WHO strategy on research for health”, the Organization works to identify research priorities, and promote and conduct research with the following 4 goals:

  • Capacity - build capacity to strengthen health research systems within Member States.
  • Priorities - support the setting of research priorities that meet health needs particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
  • Standards - develop an enabling environment for research through the creation of norms and standards for good research practice.
  • Translation - ensure quality evidence is turned into affordable health technologies and evidence-informed policy.
  • Prequalification of medicines by WHO
  • Global Observatory on Health R&D
  • Global Observatory on Health Research and Development
  • Implementation research toolkit
  • Ethics in implementation research: participant's guide
  • Ethics in implementation research: facilitator's guide
  • Ethics in epidemics, emergencies and disasters: Research, surveillance and patient care: WHO training manual
  • WHA58.34 Ministerial Summit on Health Research
  • WHA60.15 WHO's role and responsibilities in health research
  • WHA63.21 WHO's role and responsibilities in health research
  • EB115/30 Ministerial Summit on Health Research: report by the Secretariat
  • Science division

WHO consults on action plan for sustainable clinical research infrastructure

WHO advisory group convenes its first meeting on responsible use of the life sciences in Geneva

Challenging harmful masculinities and engaging men and boys in sexual and reproductive health

Stakeholders convene in Uganda on responsible use of the life sciences

Report of the sixth meeting of the WHO Diagnostic Technical Advisory Group for Neglected Tropical Diseases: Geneva, Switzerland, 14–15 February 2024

Report of the sixth meeting of the WHO Diagnostic Technical Advisory Group for Neglected Tropical Diseases:...

The World Health Organization’s Global Neglected Tropical Diseases Programme (WHO/NTD) manages a diverse portfolio of 21 diseases and disease groups,1 ...

Target product profile for a diagnostic test to confirm cure of visceral leishmaniasis

Target product profile for a diagnostic test to confirm cure of visceral leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoan parasites which are transmitted by the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies. The disease is poverty-related...

WHO Science Council meeting, Geneva, Switzerland, 30-31 January 2024: report

WHO Science Council meeting, Geneva, Switzerland, 30-31 January 2024: report

This is a visual summary of the meeting of the WHO Science Council which took place on 30 and 31 January 2024.

WHO Technical Advisory Group on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research (‎TAG-RULS DUR)‎: report of the inaugural meeting, 24 January 2024

WHO Technical Advisory Group on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research (‎TAG-RULS...

The Technical Advisory Group on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research (TAG-RULS DUR) was established in November 2023 to provide...

Coordinating R&D on antimicrobial resistance

Ensuring responsible use of life sciences research

Prioritizing diseases for research and development in emergency contexts

Promoting research on Buruli ulcer

Research in maternal, perinatal, and adolescent health

Undertaking health law research

Feature story

One year on, Global Observatory on Health R&D identifies striking gaps and inequalities

who-joins-coalition-s

Video: Open access to health: WHO joins cOAlition S

research-on-sleeping-sickness

Video: Multisectional research on sleeping sickness in Tanzania in the context of climate change

Related health topics

Clinical trials

Global health ethics

Health Laws

Intellectual property and trade

Related links

Research and Development Blueprint

WHO Collaborating Centres

R&D Blueprint for Action to Prevent Epidemics

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform

  • How It Works
  • PhD thesis writing
  • Master thesis writing
  • Bachelor thesis writing
  • Dissertation writing service
  • Dissertation abstract writing
  • Thesis proposal writing
  • Thesis editing service
  • Thesis proofreading service
  • Thesis formatting service
  • Coursework writing service
  • Research paper writing service
  • Architecture thesis writing
  • Computer science thesis writing
  • Engineering thesis writing
  • History thesis writing
  • MBA thesis writing
  • Nursing dissertation writing
  • Psychology dissertation writing
  • Sociology thesis writing
  • Statistics dissertation writing
  • Buy dissertation online
  • Write my dissertation
  • Cheap thesis
  • Cheap dissertation
  • Custom dissertation
  • Dissertation help
  • Pay for thesis
  • Pay for dissertation
  • Senior thesis
  • Write my thesis

226 Hot Public Health Thesis Topics For Top Grades

public health thesis topics

Are you stuck trying to get the best current public health research topics for thesis and writing it? If yes, know you are not alone. A lot of students find the tasks challenging, but we are here to help. Keep reading our informative guide that demonstrates how to prepare an engaging public health paper.

We will also highlight hot 226 health policy topics for paper and other public health ideas for dissertation that you can use for top grades. Why settle for less when we can help you select the best college or university papers?

What Is Public Health?

Before looking at the top public health statistics undergraduate thesis topics or other public health research ideas, let’s start with the definition. So, what is public health?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), public health is “the art and science of preventing diseases, helping to prolong life and promote health using organized efforts. Good examples of public health efforts include preventing outbreaks, educating the public on health choices, promoting fitness, preparing for emergencies, and avoiding the spread of infectious diseases. Public health

How To Write A Great Public Health Dissertation

If you are a graduate or masters student, one of the most comprehensive documents that you need to prepare is the dissertation. It is an expansive paper and comes at the end of your course. Remember that you need to ensure it is prepared well because a team of professors will ultimately evaluate it. So, here are the main steps that you need to follow to prepare a high quality dissertation:

Identify the topic of study Comprehensively research the topic and identify the main points to support it Develop the thesis statement for the dissertation (this thesis will ultimately be tested after gathering your data) Develop an outline for the dissertation. This guide should tell you what to write at what specific instance. Here is a sample outline: Topic of the study Introduction. Start with the thesis statement, followed by the objectives of the study. Then, the rest of the introduction should be used to set the background for the study. Literature review: Review relevant resources about the topic. Methodology: Explain the methodology that was used during the study. Is Results and analysis: Provide the results gathered during the study. Discussion and conclusion: Here, you should discuss the study results and demonstrate whether they approve or disapprove the thesis statement. If you found any gaps in the previous studies, highlight them too and call for further studies. Bibliography: This is a list of all the resources you used to prepare the paper. Write the first draft following the outline we have just listed above. Write the final copy by refining the first draft, proofreading, and editing it.

Awesome Public Health Thesis Topics

Here are the leading thesis topics in public health for top grades. You can use them as they are or tweak a little to suit your preference.

Public Health Thesis Topics In Mental Issues

  • What is the role of public health in addressing mental issues in society?
  • Seasonal affective disorder: A review of the disorder’s prevalence rates.
  • Society should always listen to the needs of mentally ill persons.
  • Eating disorders in adults: A review of the treatment strategies used for adults in the UK.
  • What is the relation between climate change and emerging public health issues?
  • Comparing depression prevalence rates in the UK to those of the US.
  • What are the main causes of anxiety disorders in society?
  • A review of the connection between HIV/AIDS and mental health issues in society.
  • Running a public health facility: What is the most important equipment?
  • Emerging public health issues in developing countries.
  • Analyzing the psychological problems of breast cancer.
  • What strategies should people use to prevent their mental health from social media dangers?
  • A review of the public health benefits associated with active lifestyles.
  • Stress: Why is it a major risk factor for mental health in many communities?
  • What are the most common mental health issues in society today?
  • Comparing the rates of depression and stress in China and the UK.
  • Addressing anxiety-related disorders: Is cognitive-behavior therapy the best treatment method?
  • A review of the economic burden of living with a person suffering from anxiety disorders.
  • How does depression impact the quality of life?
  • Comparing training of public health officers in the US to India.

Unique Research Topics In Public Health

  • Surrogacy: A review of associated ethical issues.
  • Prevalence of medical errors in hospitals: A review of the policies used to prevent the problem in the United States.
  • Blood transfusion: What are the side effects?
  • A review of doctors’ roles in promoting healthy lifestyles.
  • Maintaining healthy body weight: Comparing the effectiveness of the recommended methods.
  • A review of organ donation trends in Europe and Asia.
  • Analyzing the ethical factors around cloning: When should it be allowed?
  • The ethics of human experimentation.
  • Comparing the rates of heart attacks in women to men in the United States.
  • What are the main causes of heart attacks? Can it be prevented?
  • Progress in diabetes studies and treatment: Is it possible to get a cure in the future?
  • Biological weapons and their impacts on society: A review of the Leukemia rates in Japan.
  • Pre-diabetes in children: What are the main symptoms, and how can it be addressed?

Public Health Paper Topics On COVID-19

  • How will COVID-19 change life?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of self-isolation?
  • Life lessons that you learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • What challenges has your community faced during COVID-19 pandemic?
  • School life during COVID-19 pandemic.
  • A review of mass media operations during pandemic.
  • What projects did you undertake during the pandemic?
  • A review of projects that your community undertook during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • A closer look at the backlash against Asians in Europe at the start COVID-19 pandemic period.
  • Preparing for the next pandemic: What lessons did the world learn from the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • The best strategies for staying healthy during a pandemic.
  • Is there anything that we could have done to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Comparing the effectiveness of Europe and American healthcare preparedness for tackling disasters.
  • A review of mental health status in a community of your choice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • A review of COVID-19 emergence theories: Which one do you think is more credible?
  • Comparing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to Ebola.
  • Vaccines development for viral infections: What made the development of the COVID-19 vaccine possible so fast, whereas that of HIV/AIDS has taken so long?
  • A review of the vaccine development process.
  • Time for review: How effectively do you think your government responded to the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Rethinking public health on a global scale: Demonstrating why effective healthcare is only possible when looked at globally.

Interesting Public Health Research Topic Ideas

  • What is the importance of learning public health in school?
  • Identify and review a common public health issue in your community.
  • The history of human health: Comparing what was considered healthy in ancient times to what is referred to as healthy today.
  • Going vegan: How can it impact your health?
  • Excessive weight: Is it the new threat to human civilization?
  • Is bodybuilding healthy?
  • Body positive: Is it a new health standard or ignorance of body issues?
  • Things to consider when selecting healthy food to eat.
  • Why psychological health should be part of every community in society.
  • The health of newborns: What is the difference between their healthcare and that of adults?
  • Emerging trends in the healthcare industry: How can the latest trends benefit society?
  • Comparing depression and anxiety in two countries of your choice.
  • Physical wellness must include healthy behavioral patterns and nutrition.
  • A sense of belonging is paramount to personal and community health.
  • What is the relationship between spirituality and public health?
  • A review of stigmatization of mental health issues in a community of your choice.
  • Is it possible to prevent depression?
  • At what point should children start learning sex-related education?
  • Comparing the two main public health issues in two cities: London and New York.
  • What is the relationship between poverty and public health?

Hot Researchable Topics In Public Health

  • The resurgence of measles in society: The best guidance for clinicians.
  • Tackling the growing national drug problem.
  • Bioterrorism preparedness for global disasters.
  • A review of recent vitamin D recommendations for older adults.
  • Strategies for maintaining maternal mortality at low levels across the globe.
  • Efforts by Asian governments to reduce infections from using unsafe water.
  • Over-the-counter drug abuse in Europe: Compare two countries of your choice.
  • Health care providers’ roles in preventing bullying in society.
  • Knowledge management in the UK healthcare organizations.
  • The health benefits of good healthcare waste management.
  • Characteristics of dental wastes in hospitals.
  • Comparing the most prevalent public health issues in developed and developing nations.
  • Latest trends in financing public health.
  • The relevance of clinical epidemiology in public health.
  • Evidence based public health.
  • Epidemiological burden of HIV/AIDS in developing countries.
  • Addressing cervical cancer in developing countries: Is it possible to eliminate it completely?
  • Ethics in public health clinical research.
  • Comparing the strategies used in teaching and motivating public health professionals in developing and developed countries.

Research Topics In Public Health For Masters

  • Advertising and impacts on food choices in the community.
  • The use of stem cell technologies for cancer treatment: What are the latest trends?
  • Bio-printing: Is it the future of organ transplants?
  • Nutrition education: How does it promote healthy diets?
  • Exercising: What role does it play in promoting strength and balance in the elderly?
  • Weight loss surgery: What are the key advantages and disadvantages?
  • Heart disease is a major public health issue in society.
  • Alternative strategies for treating depression in society: Are they effective?
  • Healthcare leadership and its importance in public health.
  • Legal aspects of public health care in the society.
  • Mental disabilities in patients: A review of the emerging trends in the UK.
  • How does the United States promote the development of public health?
  • Inequalities in medicine: What impact does it have in public health?
  • The most controversial issues in public health in the UK.
  • What are the most preferred storage systems for medical supplies in the UK public health facilities?
  • Reimagining the public health systems on the globe: Where do you see the UK health system in the next 20 years?

Top Thesis Topics In Dental Public Health

  • Common oral health issues in Ireland.
  • A review of common problems of endodontically treated teeth.
  • The role of good leadership skills in dental education.
  • Child management techniques between male and female practitioners.
  • What role does ergonomics play in dentistry?
  • Dental material and bio-engineering: What are the latest trends?
  • A review of the relationship between diabetes and oral health in the society.
  • The role of electronic health care record systems used in public health.
  • Comparing dental health issues in the developing and developed countries.
  • A review of public awareness of dental health issues in a community of choice.
  • How can you ensure that all the food you buy is safe and healthy?
  • What strategies are used by your local health community to promote dental awareness?
  • Dental health management in California: What do you think should be done differently?
  • Are you satisfied with the strategies used to address dental issues?

Hot Thesis Topics Public Health

  • Mandatory overtime work for medical staff: How does it impact their commitment to their job?
  • Nursing shortage and its impact in public health.
  • Strategies for improving public health in the EU.
  • Mental health issues among asylum seekers in the United States.
  • Common mental issues among veterans returning from war: A case study of the United States.
  • What functions does management play in healthcare settings when handling key public health issues?
  • How poor relationships between nurses and doctors can impact public health services delivery.
  • Third-party players in public health and their roles.
  • Financial reporting standards in public health facilities.
  • What is the correlation between revenue collection in society and the quality of patient services?
  • Reviewing the coordination of public health officials during disasters.
  • The importance of staff training on quality of health services.
  • Comparing the differences between alternative medicine and conventional medicine in addressing public health issues in society.
  • Obesity: What are the main causes in child-going age?
  • A review of health consequences of caffeine.
  • Medical marijuana: What are the main pros and cons?
  • A review of the US Farm Bill Amendments that legalized use of cannabis in the US.
  • Doing sports: Is it always healthy?
  • Low-fat or low-carb diet: Which one is better in addressing overweight and diabetes issues?
  • Preventing communicable diseases: Evaluating the prevention strategies used in Asia.
  • What is the estimated cost of treating heart problems?

Controversial Public Health Dissertation Topics

  • Smoking and impacts of current efforts to address cancer in the society.
  • A review of the main causes of heart attacks in society today.
  • Tobacco ads: Evaluating their impacts and the relationship to the current cancer trends in the society.
  • Sleep disorders: Explain why they should be considered a public health issue.
  • Staffing shortage and the impacts in fighting COVID-19 pandemic in Asia.
  • Analyzing risk management of treating different diseases in the community.
  • COVID-19 pandemic in numbers: Comparing the infection rates in the developed and developing countries.
  • Reviewing strategies used in the US public health system to achieve equity: How effective are they?
  • Analyzing the main challenges in the UK medical care system.
  • Rising cases of suicides in the society: What are the main causes?
  • A comprehensive review of strategies used to prevent suicides in the 21st century in the US.
  • Use of vaccines to prevent diseases: Do adults still need the vaccines?
  • Heat-related deaths: What strategies should be adopted?
  • Chronic-diseases prevention: Comparing the strategies used in developing and developed countries.
  • Are we becoming too dependent on antibiotics in fighting diseases?
  • Opioid crisis: Are the doctors to blame for it?
  • Use of blockchain in growing accuracy of clinical trials in medicine.
  • What dangers are posed by nuclear wastes in society?
  • Assessing US industrial facilities compliance rates to cut down emissions.
  • Using clean energy as a strategy of improving public health: What are the expectations?
  • What is the healthiest country?
  • Evaluating the correlation between gaming and deviant behavior among children in society.
  • COVID-19 could have been prevented if WHO was more vigilant?

Public Health Research Questions

  • Is the high cost of medical healthcare in the United States justified?
  • What is the correlation between poverty and poor health in society?
  • Should health care for homeless people be free?
  • Unconventional medicine: Should it be part of the UK healthcare system?
  • Should doctors be responsible for medical errors?
  • Should medical officers or health facilities be allowed to promote selective medical products?
  • Should all healthcare facilities in the UK be required to have translators for non-English speaking clients?
  • Mental health issues associated with domestic violence: A case study of France.
  • Is it a good idea to legalize euthanasia?
  • What are the benefits of using surgical masks in public?
  • What are the most important lessons from the different waves of the COVID-19 pandemic reported on the globe?
  • Who is more responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Ebola or COVID-19 pandemic: Which is worse?
  • What are the main causes of epidemics on the globe?
  • Public health planning: What are the most important things to think about?
  • Should governments pay the cost of rehabilitating drug addicts in society?
  • Teaching children healthy lifestyles: What are the best strategies?
  • What problems do people with autism face in society?
  • What are the leading causes of child mortality in your community?
  • Gun violence in the United States: Should it be considered a public health issue?
  • What illnesses are considered foodborne?

Easy Topics In Public Health

  • All workplaces should support breastfeeding.
  • What are the best strategies to reduce pollution in society?
  • Public health benefits of recycling waste in society.
  • Reviewing the causes of poor water quality in the developing world.
  • Comparing water quality standards policies in the UK and US.
  • Health impacts of the rapid depletion of o-zone depletion.
  • Better planning of infrastructural development is important for healthier societies: Discuss.
  • The US is better prepared to handle pandemics that might arise after the COVID-19 pandemic. Discuss.
  • A review of common diseases spread by vectors.
  • A review of key policies installed to protect employee health.
  • Legal age for consuming energy drinks should be set by the government to address the problem of diabetes.
  • Smoking: Should it be banned in public?
  • What are the best strategies for raising awareness in public?
  • Can reducing the workload of employees in manufacturing facilities improve their health?
  • Sunbathing should be restricted to prevent the risk of cancer: Discuss.
  • Should abortion be banned in society?
  • School-related stress: How can it be prevented?
  • Should birth control be made available and free for all teenagers?
  • What should be categorized as a bad health habit?
  • Compare and contrast two common treatment methods for treating behavioral disorders.
  • Internet addiction: What are the main dangers of internet addiction?

Other Public Health Topics For Research

  • How to stay healthy and safe during a pandemic.
  • Using a bicycle instead of driving is healthier.
  • Common mental disorders in India.
  • What is the biggest health issue among young people?
  • The impact of exercising in teenagers.
  • Why do teenagers experiment with drugs?
  • What impact does dispositional violence have on mental disorders?
  • Is telemedicine helpful in promoting better healthcare?
  • Unproven alternative medicine: What are the associated risks?
  • What alternatives do we have for antibiotics?
  • What is the difference between private and public healthcare?
  • A review of the main health issues associated with puberty.
  • What is the most dangerous disease of the 21st century?
  • Why are some people still afraid of vaccines?
  • Experimental treatment: Why do people agree to undergo it?
  • How can we improve the health of people living with chronic illnesses?
  • The best strategies to make people aware of the basics of healthcare.
  • A review of the growing awareness about reproductive health in the society.

Seek Thesis Help from Experts

As we indicated earlier, writing a dissertation or other advanced papers is never easy. However, you should not give up or get content with poor quality work. If you do, defending the paper in front of a team of professors will be challenging. The best way out is to pay master thesis help .

We work with the best writers who are always ready to help you craft A-rated papers. They are educated in top schools and have a lot of experience in preparing both undergraduate papers and masters thesis. When you buy medical thesis , we also offer editing and proofreading services to guarantee students of highly refined work. Our services are also affordable and we also use secure communication to guarantee every student high confidentiality. When your teacher issues the assignment prompt, whether for a research paper or dissertation, let our professionals help you to get the best grades.

anatomy research topics

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comment * Error message

Name * Error message

Email * Error message

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

Medical Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing Service

This page provides a comprehensive list of medical research paper topics divided into 20 categories, each with 10 unique subjects. The categories span across various subfields, including anatomy and physiology, diseases, epidemiology, health and fitness, health disparities, healthcare, kinesiology, mental health, pharmacology, and veterinary medicine. Additionally, the page offers expert advice on choosing the right topic and crafting an impactful medical research paper. It also introduces iResearchNet’s writing services, which are designed to assist students in creating high-quality, custom medical research papers.

200 Medical Research Paper Topics:

Medical research is a vast and diverse field, offering a plethora of topics for students and researchers to explore. The choice of topic can significantly influence the direction of your research and the impact of your findings. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a topic that not only interests you but also aligns with your academic and career goals. To assist you in this endeavor, we have compiled a comprehensive list of medical research paper topics, divided into 20 categories, each with 10 unique topics.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

1. Anatomy and Physiology:

  • The role of the lymphatic system in maintaining homeostasis.
  • The impact of aging on muscle function and structure.
  • The physiological effects of stress on the human body.
  • The role of the endocrine system in metabolism.
  • The impact of exercise on cardiovascular health.
  • The role of the nervous system in sensation and perception.
  • The physiological effects of sleep deprivation.
  • The role of the digestive system in nutrient absorption.
  • The impact of genetic factors on human physiology.
  • The role of the immune system in disease prevention.

2. Diseases:

  • The genetic and environmental factors contributing to the development of cancer.
  • The impact of lifestyle factors on the prevalence of heart disease.
  • The role of vaccination in the prevention of infectious diseases.
  • The challenges in the management and treatment of diabetes.
  • The impact of the human microbiome on disease development.
  • The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
  • The challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • The impact of antibiotic resistance on the treatment of bacterial infections.
  • The role of genetic mutations in the development of rare diseases.
  • The impact of viral evolution on the spread of infectious diseases.

3. Epidemiology:

  • The impact of socioeconomic factors on the prevalence of infectious diseases.
  • The role of vaccination in the prevention of disease outbreaks.
  • The impact of climate change on the spread of vector-borne diseases.
  • The role of epidemiological studies in the development of public health policies.
  • The impact of population density on the spread of infectious diseases.
  • The role of epidemiology in the identification of risk factors for chronic diseases.
  • The impact of global travel on the spread of infectious diseases.
  • The role of epidemiological data in the management of disease outbreaks.
  • The impact of demographic factors on disease prevalence.
  • The role of epidemiology in the study of health disparities.

4. Health and Fitness:

  • The impact of physical activity on mental health.
  • The role of diet in the prevention of chronic diseases.
  • The impact of sedentary lifestyle on health.
  • The role of physical fitness in the prevention of heart disease.
  • The impact of obesity on health and lifespan.
  • The role of exercise in the management of stress.
  • The impact of nutrition on cognitive function.
  • The role of physical activity in the management of chronic diseases.
  • The impact of sleep on health and wellbeing.
  • The role of lifestyle interventions in the prevention of diabetes.

5. Health Disparities:

  • The impact of socioeconomic status on health outcomes.
  • The role of healthcare access in health disparities.
  • The impact of racial and ethnic disparities on health outcomes.
  • The role of social determinants of health in health disparities.
  • The impact of health literacy on health outcomes.
  • The role of cultural competence in reducing health disparities.
  • The impact of gender disparities on health outcomes.
  • The role of health policy in addressing health disparities.
  • The impact of environmental factors on health disparities.
  • The role of education in reducing health disparities.

6. Healthcare:

  • The impact of healthcare reform on patient outcomes.
  • The role of telemedicine in improving healthcare access.
  • The impact of health information technology on patient care.
  • The role of healthcare quality in patient satisfaction.
  • The impact of healthcare costs on health outcomes.
  • The role of healthcare leadership in improving patient care.
  • The impact of health insurance on healthcare access.
  • The role of healthcare innovation in improving patient outcomes.
  • The impact of healthcare policy on patient care.
  • The role of healthcare management in improving healthcare quality.

7. Kinesiology:

  • The impact of physical activity on muscle function.
  • The role of biomechanics in injury prevention.
  • The impact of exercise on cognitive function.
  • The role of kinesiology in the prevention of chronic diseases.
  • The impact of physical fitness on health outcomes.
  • The role of kinesiology in the management of sports injuries.
  • The impact of exercise physiology on athletic performance.
  • The role of kinesiology in the promotion of physical activity.
  • The impact of motor control on athletic performance.
  • The role of kinesiology in the study of human movement.

8. Mental Health:

  • The impact of stress on mental health.
  • The role of psychotherapy in the treatment of mental disorders.
  • The impact of mental illness on quality of life.
  • The role of mental health promotion in the prevention of mental disorders.
  • The impact of stigma on mental health outcomes.
  • The role of mental health services in the treatment of mental disorders.
  • The impact of mental health policy on mental health services.
  • The role of mental health literacy in the prevention of mental disorders.
  • The impact of mental health disparities on mental health outcomes.
  • The role of mental health research in improving mental health care.

9. Pharmacology:

  • The impact of drug interactions on patient safety.
  • The role of pharmacokinetics in drug development.
  • The impact of pharmacogenomics on personalized medicine.
  • The role of pharmacology in the treatment of diseases.
  • The impact of drug resistance on the treatment of infectious diseases.
  • The role of pharmacology in the management of pain.
  • The impact of drug abuse on public health.
  • The role of pharmacology in the prevention of drug interactions.
  • The impact of drug development on patient care.
  • The role of pharmacology in the study of drug action.

10. Veterinary Medicine:

  • The impact of zoonotic diseases on public health.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in the prevention of animal diseases.
  • The impact of veterinary medicine on food safety.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in the treatment of animal diseases.
  • The impact of veterinary public health on human health.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in the prevention of zoonotic diseases.
  • The impact of animal health on public health.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in the promotion of animal welfare.
  • The impact of veterinary medicine on animal behavior.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in the study of animal physiology.

11. Neurology:

  • The impact of neurodegenerative diseases on public health.
  • The role of neurology in the treatment of neurological disorders.
  • The impact of neurological research on patient care.
  • The role of neurology in the study of the nervous system.
  • The impact of neurological disorders on quality of life.
  • The role of neurology in the diagnosis of neurological disorders.
  • The impact of neurological diseases on mental health.
  • The role of neurology in the prevention of neurological diseases.
  • The impact of neurological disorders on cognitive function.
  • The role of neurology in the study of brain function.

12. Oncology:

  • The impact of cancer on public health.
  • The role of oncology in the treatment of cancer.
  • The impact of oncological research on patient care.
  • The role of oncology in the study of cancer.
  • The impact of cancer on quality of life.
  • The role of oncology in the diagnosis of cancer.
  • The impact of cancer on mental health.
  • The role of oncology in the prevention of cancer.
  • The impact of cancer on physical health.
  • The role of oncology in the study of cancer biology.

13. Cardiology:

  • The impact of heart disease on public health.
  • The role of cardiology in the treatment of heart disease.
  • The impact of cardiological research on patient care.
  • The role of cardiology in the study of the cardiovascular system.
  • The impact of heart disease on quality of life.
  • The role of cardiology in the diagnosis of heart disease.
  • The impact of heart disease on mental health.
  • The role of cardiology in the prevention of heart disease.
  • The impact of heart disease on physical health.
  • The role of cardiology in the study of heart function.

14. Endocrinology:

  • The impact of endocrine disorders on public health.
  • The role of endocrinology in the treatment of endocrine disorders.
  • The impact of endocrinological research on patient care.
  • The role of endocrinology in the study of the endocrine system.
  • The impact of endocrine disorders on quality of life.
  • The role of endocrinology in the diagnosis of endocrine disorders.
  • The impact of endocrine disorders on mental health.
  • The role of endocrinology in the prevention of endocrine disorders.
  • The impact of endocrine disorders on physical health.
  • The role of endocrinology in the study of hormone function.

15. Gastroenterology:

  • The impact of gastrointestinal disorders on public health.
  • The role of gastroenterology in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
  • The impact of gastroenterological research on patient care.
  • The role of gastroenterology in the study of the gastrointestinal system.
  • The impact of gastrointestinal disorders on quality of life.
  • The role of gastroenterology in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders.
  • The impact of gastrointestinal disorders on mental health.
  • The role of gastroenterology in the prevention of gastrointestinal disorders.
  • The impact of gastrointestinal disorders on physical health.
  • The role of gastroenterology in the study of digestive function.

16. Dermatology:

  • The impact of skin disorders on public health.
  • The role of dermatology in the treatment of skin disorders.
  • The impact of dermatological research on patient care.
  • The role of dermatology in the study of the skin.
  • The impact of skin disorders on quality of life.
  • The role of dermatology in the diagnosis of skin disorders.
  • The impact of skin disorders on mental health.
  • The role of dermatology in the prevention of skin disorders.
  • The impact of skin disorders on physical appearance.
  • The role of dermatology in the study of skin health.

17. Pulmonology:

  • The impact of respiratory disorders on public health.
  • The role of pulmonology in the treatment of respiratory disorders.
  • The impact of pulmonological research on patient care.
  • The role of pulmonology in the study of the respiratory system.
  • The impact of respiratory disorders on quality of life.
  • The role of pulmonology in the diagnosis of respiratory disorders.
  • The impact of respiratory disorders on mental health.
  • The role of pulmonology in the prevention of respiratory disorders.
  • The impact of respiratory disorders on physical health.
  • The role of pulmonology in the study of lung function.

18. Pediatrics:

  • The impact of childhood diseases on public health.
  • The role of pediatrics in the treatment of childhood diseases.
  • The impact of pediatric research on patient care.
  • The role of pediatrics in the study of childhood diseases.
  • The impact of childhood diseases on quality of life.
  • The role of pediatrics in the diagnosis of childhood diseases.
  • The impact of childhood diseases on mental health.
  • The role of pediatrics in the prevention of childhood diseases.
  • The impact of childhood diseases on physical health.
  • The role of pediatrics in the study of child health.

19. Geriatrics:

  • The impact of aging on public health.
  • The role of geriatrics in the treatment of age-related diseases.
  • The impact of geriatric research on patient care.
  • The role of geriatrics in the study of aging.
  • The impact of aging on quality of life.
  • The role of geriatrics in the diagnosis of age-related diseases.
  • The impact of aging on mental health.
  • The role of geriatrics in the prevention of age-related diseases.
  • The impact of aging on physical health.
  • The role of geriatrics in the study of the aging process.

20. Psychiatry:

  • The impact of mental disorders on public health.
  • The role of psychiatry in the treatment of mental disorders.
  • The impact of psychiatric research on patient care.
  • The role of psychiatry in the study of mental disorders.
  • The impact of mental disorders on quality of life.
  • The role of psychiatry in the diagnosis of mental disorders.
  • The impact of mental disorders on social interactions.
  • The role of psychiatry in the prevention of mental disorders.
  • The impact of mental disorders on physical health.
  • The role of psychiatry in the study of mental health.

The field of medical research is vast and diverse, offering a multitude of topics for exploration. The choice of a research topic is a critical step in the research process, and it can significantly influence the direction of your research and the impact of your findings. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a topic that not only interests you but also aligns with your academic and career goals. This comprehensive list of medical research paper topics provides a starting point for your research journey. Remember, the best research topic is one that is original, manageable, and meaningful.

More Medical Research Paper Topics

  • Anatomy and Physiology Research Paper Topics
  • Biomedical Research Paper Topics
  • Clinical Research Paper Topics
  • Disease Research Paper Topics
  • Epidemiology Research Paper Topics
  • Exercise Physiology Research Paper Topics
  • Health Disparities Research Paper Topics
  • Healthcare Research Paper Topics
  • Kinesiology Research Paper Topics
  • Mental Health Research Paper Topics
  • Pharmacology Research Paper Topics
  • Phlebotomy Research Paper Topics
  • Physical Fitness Research Paper Topics
  • Radiology Research Paper Topics
  • Veterinary Medicine Research Paper Topics

Introduction to Medical Research

Medical research is a broad and multifaceted field that encompasses a wide range of topics and disciplines. It is the backbone of modern healthcare and plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for people around the world. Medical research is the driving force behind new discoveries, innovative treatments, and the development of policies that shape public health.

At its core, medical research seeks to understand the complexities of the human body, the diseases that afflict it, and the various external factors that influence health. It is a field that is constantly evolving, with new technologies and methodologies continually pushing the boundaries of what we know about health and disease.

One of the key aspects of medical research is its interdisciplinary nature. It draws upon a variety of fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, and even social sciences. This interdisciplinary approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of health and disease, as it considers not only the biological aspects but also the social, environmental, and psychological factors that influence health.

For instance, research in anatomy and physiology delves into the structure and function of the human body, providing the foundation for understanding health and disease. Studies in diseases and epidemiology, on the other hand, focus on the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations. Health and fitness research explores the impact of lifestyle choices on health, while health disparities research examines the inequalities in health outcomes and healthcare that exist among different population groups.

Research in healthcare and kinesiology often intersects, examining how healthcare services and physical activity can improve health outcomes. Mental health research is a rapidly growing field, addressing a wide range of mental health disorders and the impact they have on overall health. Pharmacology research is vital for the development of new drugs and therapies, while veterinary medicine research not only improves the health of animals but can also provide insights into human health through comparative medicine.

Choosing a topic for a medical research paper can be a daunting task given the breadth and depth of the field. However, it also offers a wealth of opportunities to delve into a topic that is not only interesting but can also contribute to the betterment of health and healthcare.

How to Choose Medical Research Paper Topics

Choosing a topic for your medical research paper is a critical step in your academic journey. The topic you select will guide your research direction, influence your motivation, and determine the depth of your understanding of the subject matter. Therefore, it’s essential to choose wisely and consider various factors before making a decision. Here are ten comprehensive tips to help you select the right medical research paper topic:

  • Identify Your Interests: The first step in choosing a research topic is to consider your interests within the field of medicine. Are you fascinated by neurology, passionate about public health, or intrigued by the complexities of surgery? Identifying your interests can help you narrow down potential topics. When you choose a topic you’re passionate about, the research process becomes less of a task and more of an exploration. You’ll find yourself more engaged, and the enthusiasm will reflect in the quality of your research.
  • Consider the Scope: The scope of your topic is an important factor to consider. A topic that’s too broad can make your research overwhelming, as you may have to sift through an enormous amount of information and struggle to cover all aspects within the constraints of your paper. On the other hand, a topic that’s too narrow might not provide enough material for a comprehensive study. Strive for a balance where your topic is specific enough to manage but broad enough to explore in depth.
  • Check for Resources: Before finalizing a topic, ensure there are sufficient resources available for your research. These resources could include books, scholarly articles, reputable online sources, and expert interviews. Conduct a preliminary literature review to gauge the availability of sources. A lack of resources can lead to a weak paper, while an abundance of resources can provide multiple perspectives and strengthen your research.
  • Relevance to Current Times: Choosing a topic that is relevant to current medical issues or ongoing research can make your paper more engaging and significant. It allows you to contribute to the existing body of knowledge and possibly influence future research or policy. Whether it’s a new treatment method, an emerging disease, or a controversial medical practice, current topics can spark interest and debate.
  • Consult with Your Instructor: Your instructor or advisor can be a valuable resource when choosing a topic. They can provide guidance, help you refine a broad topic, expand a narrow one, and provide feedback on your initial ideas. They can also point you towards resources or research areas you might not have considered.
  • Consider the Target Audience: Always keep your target audience in mind when choosing a research topic. The topic should be interesting and accessible to them. If you’re writing for a class, consider what you’ve already discussed and what themes your instructor has emphasized. If you’re writing for publication, consider the interests and level of expertise of the readers of the journal.
  • Practicality: Consider the practical aspects of your research. If your research involves primary data collection, consider the feasibility of the methods you plan to use. Do you have access to the necessary equipment or population? Is your study ethical and approved by an ethics committee? Practical considerations can significantly influence your choice of topic.
  • Originality: While it’s important to build upon existing research, strive to bring a unique perspective to your topic. This could involve studying a well-researched topic from a new angle, exploring a less-studied area of medical research, or proposing a new hypothesis. Originality can make your research stand out and contribute to the advancement of your field.
  • Alignment with Course Objectives: Your research topic should align with the objectives of your course or curriculum. This ensures that your research paper will not only be interesting but also academically beneficial. It can demonstrate your understanding ofthe course material and your ability to apply it in a real-world context.
  • Future Career Relevance: If you have a clear idea of your future career path, consider choosing a topic that could be beneficial in your professional life. This could mean researching a topic related to a field you’d like to specialize in, a current issue in your future profession, or a novel area of study that could give you a competitive edge in your career.

In addition to these tips, it’s also important to consider the timeline of your research. Some topics may require more time to research than others, especially if they involve complex experiments or hard-to-reach populations. Make sure you choose a topic that you can reasonably research and write about within your given timeframe.

Also, consider the potential impact of your research. While it’s not always possible to predict how influential a research paper will be, you can consider whether the topic has the potential to affect policy, influence clinical practice, or lead to new research questions. Choosing a topic with potential impact can be particularly important if you plan to pursue a career in academia or research.

Remember, choosing a research topic is not a decision to be taken lightly. It’s the foundation of your research paper and can significantly influence your enjoyment of the writing process, your grade, and even your future career. Take your time, consider your options, and choose a topic that you are passionate about, meets practical considerations, and has the potential to contribute to the field of medical science.

Finally, be flexible. Research is a dynamic process, and it’s okay to refine or even change your topic as you delve deeper into your research. The most important thing is to stay curious, open-minded, and dedicated to uncovering new knowledge. With the right topic, research can be a rewarding journey of discovery.

How to Write a Medical Research Paper

Writing a medical research paper is a comprehensive task that demands a profound understanding of the subject matter, a systematic approach, and a lucid writing style. This process can be quite daunting, especially for those who are new to it. However, with the right guidance and a well-structured plan, it can be a rewarding experience. Here are ten detailed tips to guide you through the process:

  • Understand the Assignment Thoroughly: The first step in writing a medical research paper is to fully comprehend the assignment. What is the specific question you’re being asked to address? What is the scope of the research paper? What are the formatting requirements? Are there any specific sources you need to use? Understanding the assignment in its entirety will help you focus your research and ensure you meet all the requirements. It’s crucial to clarify any doubts with your professor or advisor at this stage to avoid any misunderstandings later on.
  • Choose a Suitable Topic: If you have the freedom to choose your own topic, select one that genuinely interests you. Your passion for the subject will come through in your writing, making the process more enjoyable and less of a chore. Make sure the topic is relevant to your field of study and is something you can manage within the given timeframe and word limit. A well-chosen topic can make the difference between a paper that is a joy to research and write and one that is a burdensome chore.
  • Conduct Thorough Research: The next step is to conduct comprehensive research. Use reputable sources such as academic journals, textbooks, and government health websites to gather information. Make sure to use the most recent data and research available, as the medical field is constantly evolving and it’s important to stay up-to-date. Keep track of your sources as you go along for easy referencing later. This will also save you a lot of time when you are compiling your bibliography.
  • Create an Outline: An outline is a roadmap for your research paper. It should include an introduction, a body with several points or arguments, and a conclusion. Each point should be supported by evidence from your research. An outline will help structure your thoughts and ideas, making your writing process smoother and more organized. It also allows you to see the flow of your arguments and make sure that everything is in a logical order.
  • Write a Strong Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement is the backbone of your research paper. It should clearly state the main idea or argument of your paper. It should be concise, specific, and arguable. The thesis statement will guide your writing and keep your argument focused. Spend some time crafting a strong thesis statement. It’s worth the effort as it will give direction to your research and writing.
  • Start Writing: Once you have your outline and thesis statement, you can start writing. Begin with a draft. Don’t worry about making it perfect the first time around. Just get your ideas down on paper. You can revise and improve it later. Remember, writing is a process. It’s okay to have multiple drafts. The important thing is to start writing.
  • Use Clear, Concise Language: Medical research papers should be written in a clear, concise, and formal style. Avoid jargon and complex sentences. Make sure your ideas are expressed clearly and logically. Remember, your goal is to communicate your research and ideas, not to impress with big words or complex sentences.
  • Cite Your Sources: Always cite your sources. This gives credit to the original authors and allows readers to follow up on your research. Be sure to use the citation style required by your professor or the journal you are submitting to. Proper citation is not just about avoiding plagiarism. It also lends credibility to yourpaper and demonstrates the breadth of your research.
  • Revise and Edit: Once you’ve finished your draft, take the time to revise and edit. This is where you refine your arguments, clarify your thoughts, and polish your language. Look for any inconsistencies, grammatical errors, or areas that could be clarified or improved. Consider having a peer or mentor review your paper. They can provide valuable feedback and catch errors you might have missed. Remember, good writing is rewriting. Don’t be afraid to make changes, and don’t be discouraged if your first draft isn’t perfect.
  • Proofread: Finally, proofread your paper. Check for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Make sure all citations and references are correct. Proofreading is a crucial step in the writing process. Even the most well-researched and well-written paper can lose credibility if it’s full of errors. Consider using a proofreading tool or ask someone else to proofread your paper. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch mistakes you might have overlooked.

In addition to these tips, remember to take breaks during your writing process. Writing a medical research paper is a significant undertaking, and it’s important to avoid burnout. Take time to rest and refresh your mind. This will help you maintain your focus and energy levels.

Also, keep in mind that writing a research paper is not just about the end product. It’s also about the process. It’s an opportunity to learn more about a topic you’re interested in, to improve your research and writing skills, and to contribute to your field of study. Approach it with curiosity and enthusiasm, and you’ll find that writing a medical research paper can be a rewarding experience.

Writing a medical research paper is a systematic process that requires careful planning, thorough research, and meticulous writing. By following these tips, you can produce a paper that is informative, insightful, and contributes to your field of study. Remember, every writer faces challenges along the way, so don’t be discouraged if you encounter difficulties. With persistence and dedication, you can write a successful medical research paper.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

Navigating the complex world of academic writing can be a daunting task, especially when you’re dealing with intricate topics in the field of medical research. That’s where iResearchNet comes in. As a leading provider of academic writing services, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our services are designed to help you produce high-quality, well-researched, and professionally formatted papers that meet the rigorous standards of academic writing. Here’s a detailed look at the features that set our services apart:

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers: Our team is composed of writers who hold advanced degrees in their respective fields. This means that when you order a medical research paper from us, it will be written by someone who has a deep understanding of the topic. Our writers are not just experts in their fields; they’re also skilled at translating complex ideas into clear, engaging prose.
  • Custom Written Works: Every paper we produce is custom-written to meet your specific needs. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we work closely with you to understand your assignment, your research goals, and your writing style. This allows us to create a paper that is uniquely yours.
  • In-Depth Research: Our writers are skilled researchers who know how to dig deep into academic sources to find the most relevant and up-to-date information. They understand the importance of using reliable sources and citing them correctly. When you order a paper from us, you can be confident that it will be backed by solid research.
  • Custom Formatting: Whether your assignment requires APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard formatting, our writers are well-versed in all major citation styles. They will ensure that your paper is formatted correctly, with all sources cited accurately and consistently.
  • Top Quality: At iResearchNet, we pride ourselves on the quality of our work. We have a rigorous quality control process to ensure that every paper we produce meets the highest standards of academic writing. This includes checking for clarity, coherence, and correctness in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
  • Customized Solutions: We understand that every student’s needs are unique. That’s why we offer customized solutions to meet your specific requirements. Whether you need help with a particular section of your paper, or you want us to handle the entire project, we’re here to help.
  • Flexible Pricing: We believe that high-quality academic writing services should be accessible to all students. That’s why we offer flexible pricing options to fit different budgets. We’re committed to providing you with the best value for your money.
  • Short Deadlines up to 3 Hours: We understand that time is of the essence when it comes to academic assignments. That’s why we offer fast turnaround times, with the ability to handle short deadlines of up to 3 hours for urgent orders.
  • Timely Delivery: We know how important it is to submit your assignments on time. That’s why we guarantee timely delivery of all our papers. We work diligently to ensure that your paper is completed within the agreed timeframe.
  • 24/7 Support: Our customer support team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns. Whether you want to check on the progress of your paper, make changes to your order, or simply ask a question, we’re here to help.
  • Absolute Privacy: We take your privacy seriously. All your personal information and order details are kept confidential. We use secure encryption to protect your data and we never share your information with third parties.
  • Easy Order Tracking: With our easy order tracking system, you can keep track of your order’s progress at any time. From the moment you place your order to the final delivery, you’ll have a clear view of each step in the process. This transparency ensures that you’re never left in the dark about the status of your order. You can check the progress of your paper, see the estimated completion time, and even communicate with your writer if needed. This feature is designed to give you peace of mind and make the process as stress-free as possible.
  • Money Back Guarantee: Your satisfaction is our top priority. If, for any reason, you’re not completely satisfied with the paper we deliver, we offer a money-back guarantee. We’re committed to providing top-quality academic writing services, and if we fall short of your expectations, we believe it’s only fair that you get your money back. This policy is part of our commitment to upholding high standards of service and ensuring that our customers feel confident when choosing iResearchNet.

In conclusion, iResearchNet is more than just a writing service. We’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to helping you succeed in your academic journey. Our comprehensive suite of services, from expert writing to in-depth research, custom formatting, and beyond, is designed to provide you with the tools and support you need to produce outstanding medical research papers. So why wait? Let iResearchNet help you achieve your academic goals today.

Take the Next Step Towards Academic Success

As you embark on your journey to explore the vast field of medical research, remember that you’re not alone. iResearchNet is here to provide you with the resources, guidance, and expert assistance you need to excel. Whether you’re just starting out with selecting a topic or you’re in the thick of writing your research paper, our services are designed to streamline the process and ensure your success.

Choosing a topic and writing a research paper can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With iResearchNet, you have a team of expert degree-holding writers at your disposal, ready to provide you with a custom-written research paper that meets your specific needs. Our commitment to quality, timely delivery, and absolute privacy means you can place your order with confidence, knowing that you’re in good hands.

But don’t just take our word for it. Experience the iResearchNet difference for yourself. Explore our comprehensive list of medical research paper topics, take advantage of our expert advice, and when you’re ready, place your order for a custom-written research paper. With our flexible pricing and money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

So why wait? Take the next step towards academic success. Choose iResearchNet for your medical research paper needs today. We’re excited to work with you and help you achieve your academic goals. Order now and let’s get started on your journey to success!

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

best research topics in health

  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
  • Biostatistics
  • Environmental Health and Engineering
  • Epidemiology
  • Health Policy and Management
  • Health, Behavior and Society
  • International Health
  • Mental Health
  • Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
  • Population, Family and Reproductive Health
  • Program Finder
  • Admissions Services
  • Course Directory
  • Academic Calendar
  • Hybrid Campus
  • Lecture Series
  • Convocation
  • Strategy and Development
  • Implementation and Impact
  • Integrity and Oversight
  • In the School
  • In the Field
  • In Baltimore
  • Resources for Practitioners
  • Articles & News Releases
  • In The News
  • Statements & Announcements
  • At a Glance
  • Student Life
  • Strategic Priorities
  • Inclusion, Diversity, Anti-Racism, and Equity (IDARE)
  • What is Public Health?

Our topic pages offer a one-stop-shop for insights, experts, and offerings by areas of interest.

ALL ARTICLES IN

Health news: latest research, top stories, trending topics.

Stay up to date with the latest medical and health news that matter most to you and your family. Have a question? Got feedback? Contact Us

New Treatment for Excessive Underarm Sweating Gets FDA Okay

best research topics in health

A Healthy Diet in Your 40s Can Pay Off When You’re 70

best research topics in health

Too Many People Are Taking Aspirin Every Day for Heart Health

best research topics in health

FDA Approves New Drug for Early Alzheimer’s

best research topics in health

Baby Carrots May Help Boost Immunity and Prevent Disease

best research topics in health

Is It Okay to Skip an Ozempic Shot Now and Then?

best research topics in health

Who Should Get an RSV Vaccine? The Guidelines Are Changing

best research topics in health

COVID Vaccines Advised for Fall Will Include a Newer Option: Novavax

best research topics in health

Many With Eczema Don’t Get the Mental Health Support They Need, Study Shows

best research topics in health

7 Biggest Reveals From the New Celine Dion Documentary

best research topics in health

New COPD Treatment Widens Airways and Fights Inflammation

best research topics in health

Is This Drug the Next Ozempic?

best research topics in health

Is Plant-Based Meat Good for You?

best research topics in health

Counterfeit Ozempic Is a Global Problem

best research topics in health

Ozempic and Wegovy Slash Kidney Disease Risks in People With Diabetes

best research topics in health

Your Gut Bacteria May Affect How Well You Cope With Stress

best research topics in health

Intermittent Fasting May Help Poorly Controlled Type 2 Diabetes

best research topics in health

Walking Is a Powerful Way to Beat Back Pain

best research topics in health

These Habits Can Help You Live to Be 100

best research topics in health

Intense Resistance Training Can Keep Older Adults Strong for Years

best research topics in health

U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

  • Publications
  • Account settings

Preview improvements coming to the PMC website in October 2024. Learn More or Try it out now .

  • Advanced Search
  • Journal List
  • J Med Internet Res
  • PMC10407648

Logo of jmir

Ten Topics to Get Started in Medical Informatics Research

Markus wolfien.

1 Institute for Medical Informatics and Biometry, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany

2 Center for Scalable Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, Dresden, Germany

Najia Ahmadi

3 Core Unit Data Integration Center, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany

Sophia Grummt

Kilian-ludwig heine, dagmar krefting.

4 Department of Medical Informatics, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany

Andreas Kühn

Ines reinecke, julia scheel.

5 Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany

Tobias Schmidt

6 Institute for Medical Informatics, University of Applied Sciences Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany

Paul Schmücker

Christina schüttler.

7 Central Biobank Erlangen, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany

Dagmar Waltemath

8 Department of Medical Informatics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany

Michele Zoch

Martin sedlmayr.

The vast and heterogeneous data being constantly generated in clinics can provide great wealth for patients and research alike. The quickly evolving field of medical informatics research has contributed numerous concepts, algorithms, and standards to facilitate this development. However, these difficult relationships, complex terminologies, and multiple implementations can present obstacles for people who want to get active in the field. With a particular focus on medical informatics research conducted in Germany, we present in our Viewpoint a set of 10 important topics to improve the overall interdisciplinary communication between different stakeholders (eg, physicians, computational experts, experimentalists, students, patient representatives). This may lower the barriers to entry and offer a starting point for collaborations at different levels. The suggested topics are briefly introduced, then general best practice guidance is given, and further resources for in-depth reading or hands-on tutorials are recommended. In addition, the topics are set to cover current aspects and open research gaps of the medical informatics domain, including data regulations and concepts; data harmonization and processing; and data evaluation, visualization, and dissemination. In addition, we give an example on how these topics can be integrated in a medical informatics curriculum for higher education. By recognizing these topics, readers will be able to (1) set clinical and research data into the context of medical informatics, understanding what is possible to achieve with data or how data should be handled in terms of data privacy and storage; (2) distinguish current interoperability standards and obtain first insights into the processes leading to effective data transfer and analysis; and (3) value the use of newly developed technical approaches to utilize the full potential of clinical data.

Introduction

Digital health care information, as opposed to analog information, empowers clinicians, researchers, and patients with a wealth of information aiming to improve diagnosis, therapy outcome, and clinical care in general. According to Wyatt and Liu [ 1 ], medical informatics is the study and application of methods to improve the management of patient data, clinical knowledge, population data, and other information relevant to patient care and community health. Medical informatics can be seen as the subset of health informatics that is focused on clinical care, while the latter encompasses a wider range of applications. However, knowing, integrating, and using current computational technologies bears numerous pitfalls, limitations, and questions [ 2 ]. To shed light on current standards, applications, and underlying technologies, we present 10 topics to get started in the field of medical informatics research. Our key objective here was to improve interdisciplinary communication among stakeholders (eg, clinicians, experimental researchers, computer scientists, students, patient representatives), thereby bringing everyone on the same page of state-of-the-art medical informatics practices. In particular, improved interdisciplinary communication is essential in real-world problems and can be motivated by the following aspects:

  • Advancing open research: Open collaboration between parties from different disciplines can lead to new research questions, innovative approaches, and novel discoveries [ 3 ].
  • Bridging knowledge domains: Interdisciplinary communication can stimulate novel solutions, allowing researchers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a specific problem or phenomenon [ 4 ], or can improve clinical decision-making [ 5 ].
  • Addressing complex problems: Complex problems, such as the latest disease outbreak, require input from multiple domains to be comprehensively understood. Here, interdisciplinary communication is one key aspect to pinpoint the root causes and develop effective solutions [ 6 ].
  • Promoting scientific inclusivity and diversity: Interdisciplinary communication was recently shown to foster diversity and inclusivity in science, by bringing together researchers from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives [ 7 , 8 ].

Here, we describe in detail how the initial topics have been selected from the literature and what design principles and structure each topic follows. A brief outline of the utilized methods for topic dissemination and an exemplary embedding into an educational training program are also presented.

Topic Selection

The initial topics were defined based on current developments in the health informatics field and an increasing number of published manuscripts between 2000 and 2021 (based on title-abstract-keyword screening in Scopus using the keywords “Health” AND “Informatics” AND “domain”) in the respective subdomains ( Figure 1 A). After a first definition of the specific topics, these were critically revised by internal and external domain experts, as well as scientists previously not familiar with medical informatics research.

An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is jmir_v25i1e45948_fig1.jpg

Schematic summary and representation of the presented topics: (A) brief literature screening (title-abstract-keywords) for published manuscripts between 2000 and 2021, and the y-axis gap provides improved visibility of the less-occurring keywords; (B) most common topic terminologies, keywords (color-coded sections), and potential connections (grey) among topics in the medical informatics research domain. CDSS: clinical decision support system; CIS: clinical information system; EHR: electronic health record; ETL: extract, transform, and load; FAIR: findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable; FHIR: Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources; GDPR: General Data Protection Regulation; i2b2: Informatics for Integrating Biology and the Bedside; OMOP: Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership.

Topic Design

The initial number of important topics and keywords exceeded the anticipated number of 10 topics, which found inspiration from the “Ten Simple Rules” collection in PLOS Computational Biology [ 9 ]. This is why the authors merged the most matching terms topic wise into groups. These groups finally produced topics that represent the broad range of the medical informatics domain in 3 main concepts, namely “Regulations and concepts,” “Harmonization and processing,” and “Evaluation, visualization, and dissemination” ( Figure 1 B). Figure 1 B also shows the initial keywords for each individual topic, as well as potential cross references between topics, which are highlighted in grey. The following sections provide important “do's and don'ts,” practical hints, and best practice guidelines. Further in-depth resources and practical tutorials will provide basic introductions to the referred domains. Kohane et al [ 10 ] already showed the importance of such clarifying introductions. This work extends the initial study and, in addition, provides detailed examples from the German national Medical Informatics Initiative (MII) [ 11 ].

All topics were divided into 3 parts to improve comprehension by the readers:

  • Introduction: Background definitions for the specific context that motivated the topic
  • Insight: Practical context to get started, including how to avoid pitfalls, state current limitations, and address current challenges
  • Impact: Take home message and useful resources and best practices to deepen knowledge about the topic

Topic Utilization, Extension, and Embedding

Since it is of the utmost importance to keep the content current and as versatile as possible, we initiated an online resource at GitHub, in which contributions are highly emphasized [ 12 ]. Here, keywords and the corresponding literature are collected to allow for swift extension of the currently presented literature body in this article. In addition, the introduction of novel important topics that are not covered in this article might be included. To additionally demonstrate the practicability and adaptability of our proposed topic content, we exemplarily present how these can be embedded in higher education training and share external, introductory hands-on material ( Table 1 ).

Summary of tutorials and hands-on material about medical informatics standards and applications.

Topic numberNameDescriptionLink
2SNOMED CT This 5-step briefing presents a high-level overview of SNOMED CT, how it works, and the benefits of use.[ ]
4DataSHIELDThis tutorial introduces users to DataSHIELD commands and syntax in R/R Studio.[ ]
5ETL This provides introductory material to get from the native/raw data to the OMOP CDM one needs to create an ETL process.[ ]
6FHIR trainingThis contains a series of FHIR tutorials for those just beginning to learn the new specification.[ ]
6SMART App GalleryThe SMART platform is composed of open-standard, open-source tools for developers building apps, and a publicly accessible gallery.[ ]
7EHDEN AcademyThis contains a series of tutorials for OMOP CDM and additional OHDSI tools (eg, PLP [ ]).[ ]
8Synthetic data generationThis is a hands-on tutorial from the ODI [ ] showing how to use Python to create synthetic data[ ]
10R Studio educationThis provides an introduction to basic R programming.[ ]
10Python DashThis tutorial helps develop data visualization interfaces.[ ]

a SNOMED CT: Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine and Clinical Terms.

b ETL: extract, transform, and load.

c OMOP: Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership.

d CDM: common data model.

e FHIR: Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources.

f OHDSI: Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics.

g PLP: patient-level prediction.

h ODI: Open Data Institute.

Regulations and Concepts

Topic 1: privacy and ethics—“data privacy and ethics are the most important assets in the clinical domain.”.

Health information is sensitive and hence needs to be highly protected and should not be generously shared. Sharing regulations and data privacy matters are defined in the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) [ 13 ]. The implementation of the GDPR is an ongoing process as the quickly evolving technology, data, and scientific practices demand continuous improvement, which include periodic adaptations of the technical and legal aspects [ 14 , 15 ]. In terms of ethics and with the rise of novel technologies, like artificial intelligence (AI), the possible re-identification of data, such as images and genomic information, is a major concern [ 16 , 17 ].

Anonymization is one important way to keep data private. It can also be achieved for high-dimensional data by changing patient-specific identifiers through removal, substitution, distortion, generalization, or aggregation [ 18 ]. In contrast, data pseudonymization is another de-identification procedure by which personally identifiable information fields within a data record are replaced by one or more artificial identifiers or pseudonyms [ 19 ]. To overcome the paucity of annotated medical data in real-world settings and (fully) save the patients’ anonymity, synthetic data generation is used to increase the diversity in data sets and to enhance the robustness and adaptability of AI models [ 20 ]. To conform with ethical regulations in a research context, medical data are only available in a highly controlled manner and according to strict procedures. New concepts, such as “systemic oversight” [ 21 ] or “embedded ethics” [ 22 ], might be needed to tackle the new data-driven developments around “medical big data” and AI in health care. To engage with the adoption of broad consent, systemic oversight was suggested as an approach, in which mechanisms like auditing mechanisms, expert advice, and public engagement initiatives (among others) should be adapted as additional layers to the newly arising ecosystem of health data [ 21 ]. Recently, embedded ethics was jointly suggested by ethicists and developers to address ethical issues via an iterative and continuous process from the outset of development, which could be an effective means of integrating robust ethical considerations into practical development [ 22 ]. A digital representation of information encoded in signed consent forms is needed to facilitate common data use and sharing, as already implemented in an MII informed consent template [ 23 ].

As a researcher in medical informatics, it is inevitable to be informed and knowledgeable about the fact that patients own their medical records and any use of those data requires great care. In Germany, health care providers can only use the data for first medical use. Secondary use, like research, needs to be approved by either broad or individual consent, which can be made available via the electronic health record (EHR). In addition to digitization efforts, it is still a considerable hurdle to convince patients to make their data available for medical research because personal skepticism commonly makes the entire data acquisition process more difficult [ 24 ]. Here, well-received external communication, transparency, and increased awareness are necessary for substantial improvements. In general, it is a balance between privacy, patient needs, and the use of data for the common good versus economic interests [ 25 ]. In particular, one should be aware of the specific legal regulations that apply within the country and additionally get in touch with the relevant data protection departments. Following this, a plan for infrastructure that meets these regulations and that contains, for example, a trustee for the electronic recording of patient consent and anonymization or direct pseudonymization processes to collect the data needs to be developed. Risk assessments for potential data leakage, approvals by ethics committee, as well as consultation with a data protection officer are essential considerations to further assure data security.

Topic 2: EHR and Clinical Information Systems—“Get to Know Your Clinical Information System to Understand the Required Data.”

Hospitals run clinical information systems (CIS) to collect, store, and alter clinical data about patients. A CIS, independent of the specialization and specific vendor, covers many clinical subdomains and integrates patient-related data to support doctors in their daily routine. Without a doubt, medical data are only useful if meaningful information can be derived from them. This requires high-quality data sets, seamless communication across IT systems, and standard data formats that can be processed by humans and machines [ 2 ]. Typical challenges in clinical IT implementations, especially for patient recruitment systems, were recently evaluated by Fitzer et al [ 26 ] for 10 German university hospitals, including requirements for data, infrastructure, and workflow integration. The implementation of an EHR, including an individual's medical data in a bundled form, into the CIS is a key aspect to prevent low reliability and poor user-friendliness of EHRs, which has recently been shown to affect time pressure among medical staff [ 27 ]. For example, in Scandinavia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, the Open Notes initiative [ 28 ] facilitates patients’ access to EHRs and health data sharing via “PatientsKnowBest ” to give health care professionals and families direct access to medical information [ 29 ].

An EHR is used primarily for the purposes of setting objectives and planning patient care, documenting the delivery of care, and assessing the outcomes of care [ 30 ]. EHRs have so far consisted of unstructured, narrative text as well as structured, coded data. Thus, it will be necessary to implement more systematic terminologies and codes so that the data contained in these records can be reused in clinical research, health care management, health services planning, and government reporting in an improved manner [ 31 , 32 ]. Since the domain of medical informatics is rather new, there are many possibilities for software solutions to improve EHR-related issues [ 33 ]. Exemplary for the EHR domain, the Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine and Clinical Terms (SNOMED CT) is utilized to develop comprehensive high-quality clinical content [ 34 ]. It provides a standardized way to represent clinical phrases captured by the clinician and enables automatic interpretation of these, which is showcased in a “five-step briefing” [ 35 ]. Interestingly, the number of annual publications on this subject has decreased since 2012. However, the need for a formal semantic representation of free text in health care remains, and automatic encoding into a compositional ontology could be a solution [ 36 ]. In terms of usability and user acceptance, evaluations and improvements of EHRs and clinical decision support systems (CDSS) are currently ongoing [ 37 ], for which already well-received examples can be attributed to CeoSYS [ 38 ] or the IPSS-M Risk Calculator [ 39 ]. Moreover, the actions of patients directly contributing to their own EHR records are also being evaluated. The study by Klein et al [ 40 ] indicates that such an approach facilitates the development of individual solutions for each patient, which in turn requires a flexible EHR during the course of a treatment process. Additionally, it was argued that data incorporation via different devices can also facilitate the convenient utilization of the application and, hence, may increase secondary use.

Modern CIS support the interaction by doctors and patients with the recorded patient data (eg, using the EHR or patient portals, eHealth platforms). It is important to understand the basic architecture, especially challenges [ 26 ], of the hospital IT infrastructure to know where data are located and how they can be retrieved and integrated. Major improvements can be made when supporting international standards for data exchange. Beyond standard EHR, this includes interoperability standards like Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR; see Topic 6) and standard data models like the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP; see Topic 7). These criteria should be considered with every new order of clinical systems.

Topic 3: Data Provenance—“Trace Your Data, Even Within Large-scale Efforts.”

Meaningful and standardized metadata facilitate the interpretation of, retrieval of, and access to data [ 41 ]. When explainable data are processed with interoperable tools, scientists can create automated and reusable workflows and provide access to reproducible research outcomes and data analysis pipelines [ 42 ].

Data provenance describes the history of digital objects, where they came from, how they came to be in their present state, and who or what acted upon them [ 43 ]. In health care, provenance maintains the integrity of digital objects (eg, the results of data analyses engender greater trust if their provenance shows how they were obtained). In addition, it can be used to deliver auditability and transparency, specifically, in learning health systems, and it is applicable across a range of applications [ 44 ]. Inau et al [ 45 ] argued that the lessons learned from “FAIRification” processes in other domains will also support evidence-based clinical practice and research transparency in the era of big medical data and open research. Further work demonstrated that a findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable (FAIR) research data management plan can provide a data infrastructure in the hospital for machine-actionable digital objects [ 46 ]. Recently, the openEHR approach was also suggested for creating FAIR-compliant clinical data repositories as an alternative representation [ 47 ].

Key data management requirements are defined by the FAIR guiding principles [ 48 ]. Since data protection laws led to additional requirements for data privacy and data security, the FAIR-Health principles focused on defining additional requirements for information on the sample material used from biobanks, for provenance information, and incentive schemes [ 49 ]. Further work is needed to establish provenance frameworks in health research infrastructures [ 50 ].

Topic 4: Data Sharing—“If Data Won’t Come to the Model, the Model Must Go to the Data.”

Cross-sectional medical data-sharing is critical in modern clinical practice and medical research, in which the challenge of privacy-preserving transfer and utility needs to be addressed [ 51 ]. In order to facilitate high reuse of the data, a decentralized computational scheme that treats the available data as part of a federated (virtual) database, avoiding centralized data collection, processing, and raw data exchanges, is still needed in many countries to analyze large and widespread clinical data [ 52 ].

One possible solution for this federated learning approach is DataSHIELD [ 53 ]. In particular, orchestrating privacy-protected analyses of “medical big data'' from different resources is applicable within R and DataSHIELD [ 54 ]. Here, the developed computerized models represent mathematical concepts or trained machine learning (ML)–based approaches to solve a specific task. In this sense, the model is applied to distributed data sets of the protected (clinical) server infrastructure, and the user only sees the model results but does not retrieve any medical records. Moreover, implementations in other programming languages (eg, Python, Julia) have been introduced in the genomic domain and beyond [ 55 ]. Further concepts, such as Personal Health Train, specifically follow the FAIR principles during distributed analyses [ 56 ]. Secure multiparty computation (SMPC) is also a viable technology for solving clinical use cases that require cross-institution data exchange and collaboration [ 57 ]. Current limitations are thought to be addressed in a stepwise manner [ 58 ] or as blockchain [ 59 ].

By using approaches for distributed analyses, researchers are able to train, test, and validate their models on large-scale real-world clinical data. In combination with standardized data formats, these 2 concepts facilitate the use of those models in clinical routine, potentially in the form of a CDSS. This provides a basis for secondary use of observational data in the context of clinical trials, which show particular potential for identifying data characteristics in small cohorts (eg, identification of the individual patient risk for rare diseases or comorbidities).

Harmonization and Processing

Topic 5: extract, transform, and load (etl)—“ etl processes are computational approaches for data harmonization and data unification.”.

Data handling in medical informatics remains a major challenge. Even though most data in medicine are available electronically, the data often lack interoperability [ 60 ]. As a first step to actually use the data, processes to extract, transform, and load (ETL) are needed to obtain harmonized data from different data systems or clinical entities. One important example, among many others, reflects the uniform representation of the date and time in a common format (eg, Year-Month-Date, not Date-Month-Year). The ETL process is therefore a crucial, individual step toward data unification in large clinical systems, which must be secure, safe, and accurate [ 61 ].

The design of an ETL process faces several challenges, including the following: (1) The ETL process should be able to process huge amounts of data at once [ 62 ]; (2) the ETL process should be repeatable—if the source data change, the ETL process needs to be rerun to process the source data (Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics [OHDSI]) [ 63 ]; (3) expert-level anonymization methodologies might be integrated into ETL workflows whenever possible [ 61 ]; and (4) there is a need to check for loss of data and compromised data integrity. The latter was highlighted in a recent study, in which inaccurate cohort identification took place because erroneous vocabulary mappings of a common data model were used (eg, ETL programming bugs and errors not captured during the quality assurance stages) [ 64 ]. Common solutions to implement ETL processes are code-based (eg, FHIR-to-OMOP [ 65 ]) or via Pentaho Data Integration, which is one of many ETL tools. Further subsequent processing may also include loading data into research data repositories, like OMOP (see Topic 7), tranSMART, and Talend Open Studio, which is a central component of the Integrated Data Repository Toolkit [ 66 ].

Since ETL processes are at the core of data handling, all risks associated with the ETL process need to be thoroughly checked, identified, and assessed, and contingency plans to mitigate these risks should be in place [ 67 ]. Once the ETL processes are executed, the resulting data will be trusted by researchers, who heavily rely on comprehensively checked data integrity to be able to conduct their research on this basis.

Topic 6: FHIR—“Set FHIR to Gain a Communication Standard for Real-time Applications at the Device-to-Device Level.”

Interoperability levels can be divided into technical, syntactic, semantic, and organizational interoperability [ 2 ]. Semantic and syntactic interoperability can be ensured by communication exchange standards, such as the FHIR [ 68 ] standard of Health Level 7 (HL7) and medical terminologies. A suitable starting point for the basic procedures is offered by FHIR drills [ 69 ] or fire.ly [ 70 ].

FHIR is one of many communication standards but will likely change the domain of clinical IT significantly [ 71 , 72 ]. As a communication standard, FHIR harmonizes data formats coming from different CIS and enables data exchange between institutions via a RESTful approach [ 73 ]. Moreover, FHIR is used to connect devices with each other, which means, in particular, that the Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) [ 74 ] standard has been revised to support HL7 messaging as well. In turn, IHE has been developing an open-source device tool set for home and hospital use that recently enabled device control capabilities, a capability accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow nurses and physicians to operate ventilators and infusion devices outside the contaminated patient room [ 75 ].

Utilizing FHIR in multiple applications already shows its versatile and flexible use (eg, in mobile health applications [ 76 ], electrocardiogram monitoring [ 77 ], or wearable devices and precision medicine in digital health [ 72 ]). In particular, the SMART-on-FHIR technology enables third-party app development for health care applications [ 78 ] and encompasses feasible, secure, and time- and resource-efficient solutions [ 79 , 80 ].

Topic 7: OMOP—“Use Common Data Models as Well-defined Representations of Large-scale Research Projects.”

Data harmonization enables research teams to run real-world observational studies based on heterogeneous data across country borders. Thus, harmonized data embedded in a common data model (CDM), which is an agreement about the utilization of standardized terminologies for data representation, is crucial to exchange data and results on a large scale. To foster reliability and trust in the results of observational research on real-world data, it is essential to utilize CDMs whenever possible to ensure a high degree of data analysis reproducibility.

Several CDMs exist for that purpose; the OMOP CDM from the OHDSI community is one of the most promising and established approaches. In comparison with other CDMs, such as the Sentinel CDM or Informatics for Integrating Biology and the Bedside (i2b2), the OMOP CDM has broader terminology coverage [ 81 ]. The importance of the OMOP CDM increased a lot over the last years [ 82 ], not least since the European Medicines Agency initiated the Data Analysis and Real World Interrogation Network (DARWIN) [ 83 ] project to establish a research network in Europe to gain real-world evidence based on OMOP. Moreover, representations of genomic data [ 84 ], oncology [ 85 ], and imaging projects [ 86 ] are also suitable. In addition, the common representation of the data in OMOP semantic interoperability is ensured by utilizing international terminologies and vocabularies, such as SNOMED-CT, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD), the Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes (LOINC), and RxNorm to represent every clinical fact in OMOP. Additionally, the open-source OHDSI software stack provides standardized methodology and libraries for data analyses (Athenahene, Atlas, HADES) and training (EHDEN Academy) [ 87 ], as well as a framework to assess and improve data quality to foster reliability and trust in research results [ 88 ].

The OMOP CDM is one possibility to represent and analyze clinical data on a research scale. Definition of new cohorts within OMOP enables researchers to quickly investigate questions spanning multiple research entities. Collectively, both FHIR and OMOP can define the structure and relations of the clinical data corpus, and the individual EHRs provide content to these standardized data reservoirs. In comparison, OMOP is commonly used for static large-scale data analysis of research data, and FHIR is more suitable for rapid data integration scenarios (ie, for real-time applications and analysis). In summary, it is important to know and utilize newly established standards to participate in broader clinical networks for research. This way, all information within the EHR is comparable across different clinical sites and research settings.

Evaluation, Visualization, and Dissemination

Topic 8: data quality—“guarantee high quality and then publish the data.”.

What is meant to be appropriate data quality for health informatics research? In this domain, data quality depends on the quality of single data elements, data completeness, data conformance, and data plausibility aspects that may considerably determine the validity and veracity of analysis results [ 89 , 90 ]. Moreover, data quality across different institutional entities and even health sectors requires additional efforts concerning the different personnel, instruments, and more [ 91 ]. High-quality data at hand is one fundamental requirement that is often difficult or impossible to achieve, which is why the generation of synthetic data can be an alternative that satisfies privacy problems as well as research needs when data are expensive, scarce, or unavailable by augmentation [ 92 ].

First, a major problem is that clinical data have to be electronically recorded, accessed, and standardized in order to run quality assessment processes [ 26 ]. In addition, it would be important to design and use the same data quality tool, standard operating procedures, or ETL mapping rules in all involved institutions. However, in real-life scenarios, there is a lack of both centrally coordinated data quality indicators and formalization of plausibility rules, as well as a repository for automatic querying of the rules, especially in ETL processes [ 93 ]. Although numerous data quality evaluation frameworks exist, no clear and widespread approach has been adopted so far [ 67 , 94 - 96 ]. Even after a well-chosen data quality procedure is properly implemented, clinical data as such cannot be published along with the performed study. As an alternative, synthetic data generation models function in the following 2 different ways: (1) The model is trained, for example, using real-world data and, once trained, will not require any data in the future (model-based approaches), and (2) the model is constantly fed with data to generate synthetic data (data-driven approaches). There are 3 different categories of algorithms used in the generation of synthetic data: probabilistic models, such as Bayesian networks [ 97 ] and Copulas [ 98 ]; ML, such as Classification and Regression Trees (CART); and deep learning methods, such as a generative adversarial network (GAN) [ 99 - 101 ] and variational autoencoder (VAE) [ 102 ].

A combination of appropriate data quality evaluation and synthetic data generation highly facilitates the development of accurate AI models, which are essential in medical studies [ 103 ]. Thus, a corpus of high-quality synthetic data with many patients can be reused by other AI experts for model development and benchmarking. Moreover, it is essential to create an infrastructure that is used across a large community of hospitals; maps the entire treatment process electronically; and only generates interoperable, structured data based on FHIR (Topic 6) and OMOP (Topic 7) in accordance with the FAIR principles (Topic 3). Afterward, one can finally run quality assessment processes.

Topic 9: Clinical Decision Support Systems—“Bring Insights, Not Additional Work, Back to the Clinics via a CDSS and Other User-Centric Applications.”

CDSS are computer systems designed to assist the medical staff with decision-making tasks about individual patients and based on clinical data [ 104 ]. The decision-making process is still, and will remain, on the shoulders of the physician [ 105 ]. The categories of CDSS include knowledge-based systems that make use of clinical rules, nonknowledge-based systems (eg, AI-based systems), and hybrid CDSS that likewise utilize clinical models and knowledge in combination with AI.

The use of a CDSS in a well-implemented clinical workflow has many positive aspects. It may lead to fewer error rates [ 106 ], accelerate rare disease diagnosis [ 107 ], increase radiologists’ job satisfaction [ 108 ], offer personalized cancer treatment [ 109 ], or help with real-time cardiovascular risk assessment [ 110 ]. Interestingly, computerized alerting systems, which are one of the most disseminated CDSS, can decrease drug-drug interactions significantly [ 111 ]. On the other hand, if done improperly, a CDSS can cause alert fatigue by creating too many alerts. If a system is not context-sensitive, alerts can even be inappropriate [ 112 ]. According to Olakotan et al [ 112 ], influencing factors of a well-designed CDSS need to include aspects about the (1) technology (eg, usability, alert presentation, workload, and data entry), (2) human (eg, training, knowledge, skills, attitude, and behavior), (3) organization (eg, rules and regulations, privacy, and security), and (4) and process (eg, waste, delay, tuning, and optimization). To avoid a lack of transparency and facilitate acceptance by physicians, especially with nonknowledge-based systems, current CDSS seek to use explainable AI approaches; however, the selection of methods used to present explanations in an informative and efficient ( clinically useful ) manner remains challenging [ 113 ]. Of note, a CDSS may also have a negative influence on the performance of physicians, especially if inadequate suggestions occur more often, which cannot be compensated with explanations [ 114 ]. However, one among many other prominent approaches to obtain such explanations via ML-based feature selection and ranking can be found in the work from Wolfien et al [ 115 ]. In terms of an OMOP-based implementation in research, there is patient-level prediction (PLP), which is designed to foster the clinical decision-making process concerning diagnoses or treatment pathways based on the EHR of the patient and the current clinical guideline. It is used to answer questions, such as identifying patients among a larger population at higher risk of a certain outcome (eg, occurrence of cancer, severe side effects, or death) by using data in standardized formats (eg, as previously described via OMOP CDM). Once the model is designed, the covariates will be extracted from the respective CDM of the target person within the cohort, and the respective outcome will be predicted (eg, via PLP [ 116 , 117 ] or other customized prediction algorithms). Importantly, the results from model prediction should first be internally validated with previously unseen data and afterward compared with established scoring systems (eg, Framingham Risk Score [ 118 ], SCORE2 [ 119 ]) to connect with already known domain-specific contexts and to prove its benefit in clinical practice. An additional validation with external data, as part of a multicenter study, can be seen as highly beneficial, in which the already presented topics of federated learning (Topic 4) and OMOP (Topic 7) could significantly foster such an essential scenario [ 120 ].

Collectively, a CDSS increases patient safety, assists in clinical management, and can be cost-effective [ 104 ]. In general, findings of even erroneous CDSS can be used to guide the design of new CDSS alerts. However, the existing risks cannot be solved solely on a technical basis and require an interdisciplinary effort. In particular, continuous, clear communication between IT professionals (developers) and health professionals (end users) during the design process is key. Only a profound understanding of the needs and requirements of either of the involved parties can lead to well-designed systems that are actually able to support and relieve physicians in doing their job.

Topic 10: Visualizations—“Improved Dissemination of Local and External Data From Computational Models by Well-defined Interactive Visualizations.”

Large volumes of data collected from patient registries, health centers, genomic databases, and public records can potentially improve the efficiency and quality of health care via enhancing the interoperability of medical systems, assisting in clinical decision-making, and delivering feedback on effective procedures [ 121 ]. However, each and every raw data point must go through different analytical processes until they become useful and interpretable at the point of care.

R and Python are 2 versatile open-source programming languages that have gained popularity for different purposes, such as preprocessing (eg, tidyverse), statistical tests (eg, dplyr), ML and deep learning (eg, mlr package, caret), visualization (eg, ggplot), and writing reports directly using knitr and R markdown (RStudio education [ 122 ]). Like R, Python offers different libraries for data science tasks (eg, open mined [ 123 ]) in addition to a library specifically for health predictive models, namely PyHealth [ 124 ]. Another versatile visualization functionality is offered for both languages via R Shiny [ 125 ] and Plotly Dash [ 126 ]. These 2 platforms enable data scientists to create interactive web applications directly from a script. The applications can be extended using embedded CSS themes, HTML widgets, and Javascript actions. There is already evidence that implementing clinical dashboards or CDSS for immediate access to current patient information can improve processes and patient outcomes [ 127 ], especially if the data sets are further evaluated and refined [ 128 ]. Similar to FHIR, OHDSI provides tools for analyzing data in the OMOP CDM, which are written in R and use Shiny for the visualization. As a plus, data already stored in the OMOP CDM format can be used in systematic studies, patient-level analysis, and population-based estimations from scratch. The cBioPortal is one prime example of a web resource for exploring, visualizing, and analyzing multidimensional data, which reduces molecular profiling data from cancer tissues and cell lines into readily understandable genetic, epigenetic, gene expression, and proteomic events [ 129 ]. It was recently demonstrated how cBioPortal can be extended and integrated with other tools to a comprehensive and easily deployable software solution that supports the work of a molecular tumor board [ 130 ] and even deliver meaningful scientific insights [ 131 ]. Another translational research platform for the construction and integration of modern clinical research charts is Informatics for i2b2, which is also at the heart of clinical research [ 132 , 133 ].

Computational approaches and data analyses are tightly connected with medical research; the visualization of such complex data for clinicians in a routine setting especially plays a larger role. The current developments of translational research platforms, such as cBioPortal and i2b2, enable swift translation of research results into the clinic, if adequately adopted and enough trained people supervise the process.

The need for qualified IT specialists in medical informatics has increased continuously in recent years and will continue to grow in the future. On the other hand, medical informatics in Germany faces problems with the ​​promotion of young researchers. These current developments mean that vacancies in IT in hospitals and the health care industry can often not be filled or only after very long vacancies. In addition, these positions often have to be filled with nonspecialist staff due to a lack of applications. To keep track of these recent developments and provide a basis for interdisciplinary communication, we provide our list of 10 topics that could be used by different stakeholders individually ( Figure 2 ). With a particular focus in medicine, improved interdisciplinary communication has already been shown to positively impact patient outcomes and enhance employee engagement [ 134 ].

An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is jmir_v25i1e45948_fig2.jpg

Exemplary outcome visualization of the underlying study, in which the color coding reflects the initial colors of the proposed sections; it starts with an individual perception of the term medical informatics (MI) based on the individual’s background and ends with acquisition of common domain knowledge for current important topics. CDSS: clinical decision support system; EHR: electronic health record; ETL; extract, transform, and load; FAIR; findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable; FHIR; Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources; OMOP: Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership.

Furthermore, medical informatics has developed rapidly in recent years. This applies, for example, to new methods, techniques, tools, framework conditions, and organizational structures, especially in the field of medical data science. In particular, definitions of standards and a national digitized data corpus, namely the German Core Dataset [ 135 ], were agreed upon. The actual assessment and collection of digitized data in local university hospitals are utilized in so-called data integration centers. These interoperable research data infrastructures enable rapid multisite research, for example, with complex COVID-19 research data sets (German Corona Consensus Dataset [GECCO]) [ 136 ] including clinical data and data on biosamples from all German university hospitals in pseudonymized form (CODEX) [ 137 , 138 ] or the COVID-19 Data Portal [ 139 ]. The subsequent formation of the Network University Medicine (NUM) strengthens the existing interaction between research and patient care, stabilizes existing structures, and creates new structures that ensure more effective feedback and close cooperation between the clinics. The presented examples of NUM and CODEX, among others [ 140 ], attempt a central approach to bundle and harmonize necessary resources like broad consent or the elektronische Patientenakte (ePa), which is the implementation of EHR as a national entity to ultimately facilitate an interconnected health care system.

Finally, all those involved in medical informatics are called upon to engage in lifelong learning and continuously acquire further qualifications.

Exemplary Implementation of the Addressed Topics in the German Medical Informatics in Research and Care in University Medicine Consortium

This article offers newcomers to medical informatics a first introduction and a wealthy overview of current IT-related topics in research and patient care. Nevertheless, there is also a need for further qualification of employees through new, innovative offers for training, further education, and further training. As part of the MII [ 11 ], all consortia were asked to develop and set up appropriate offers and formats. The Medical Informatics in Research and Care in University Medicine (MIRACUM) consortium [ 141 ] has reacted and set up the part-time training and further education program “Biomedical Informatics and Data Science” [ 142 ] and introduced it at the Mannheim University of Applied Sciences in October 2020. The program includes a time-flexible and individually adaptable part-time online master’s course, as well as certificate courses and programs for further scientific education. In addition to the establishment and continuous further development of a cloud-based learning platform, many new digital and target group–oriented learning resources and application-oriented learning environments were developed and introduced for the master's program.

All 10 topics listed in this article are reflected in the curriculum of the master’s degree and have been offered and dealt with in-depth in the individual courses for more than 2 years. The demand for the master’s program and certificate courses is high, and the evaluation has shown that these topic-specific foci correspond to the training and further education needs of the target groups. One particular aspect that was not covered in the final topics refers to the underlying infrastructure needed to provide the data storage and processing backbone. This aspect would have been too technical for a more broadly set, introductory article, such as this article. A starting point for more in-depth information about this aspect can be obtained from further literature [ 143 , 144 ]. However, to offer a practical start to the 10 topics, we provide links to well-known tutorials and hands-on materials ( Table 1 ).

We suggest a set of 10 topics to ease the start for researchers and clinicians to become engaged with basic concepts in health informatics research. We provide current review articles for more in-depth reading about the specific topic and present practical hands-on material. The presented topics likewise serve as a broad overview of the medical informatics research domain but also guide individuals and their specific interests. For example, a computer scientist familiar with CDSS development could more easily connect with important aspects, such as data privacy, FHIR, and specific EHRs that are highly relevant for daily work. In contrast, medical experts can obtain an overview of behind-the-scenes technologies, like ETL processes and underlying data quality approaches that are finally visualized as a summarizing clinical dashboard. For readers, we provided a first step toward an improved understanding of a lively and quickly expanding field, but more novel technologies and practical knowledge are ahead. Suggestions and contributions to improve the current topics can be made at GitHub, which will likewise enable content and readers to stay current [ 12 ].

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) and the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) within the Medical Informatics Initiative Medical Informatics in Research and Care in University Medicine (MIRACUM) Consortium (FKZ: 01ZZ180L [Dresden]; FZK: 01ZZ180A [Erlangen]; FKZ: 01ZZ1801M [Greifswald]). The article processing charge was funded by the joint publication funds of the Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, including the Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine; Saxon State and University Library (SLUB) Dresden; and the Open Access Publication Funding of the German Research Foundation (DFG).

The funding sources had no involvement in the conduct of the research and preparation of the article.

Abbreviations

AIartificial intelligence
CARTClassification and Regression Tree
CDMcommon data model
CDSSclinical decision support system
CISclinical information system
DARWINData Analysis and Real World Interrogation Network
EHRelectronic health record
ePaelektronische Patientenakte
ETLextract, transform, and load
FAIRfindable, accessible, interoperable, reusable
FHIRFast Healthcare Interoperability Resources
GANgenerative adversarial network
GDPRGeneral Data Protection Regulation
GECCOGerman Corona Consensus Dataset
HL7Health Level 7
i2b2Informatics for Integrating Biology and the Bedside
ICDInternational Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems
IHEIntegrating the Healthcare Enterprise
LOINCLogical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes
MIIMedical Informatics Initiative
MIRACUMMedical Informatics in Research and Care in University Medicine
MLmachine learning
NUMNetwork University Medicine
OHDSIObservational Health Data Sciences and Informatics
OMOPObservational Medical Outcomes Partnership
PLPpatient-level prediction
SMPCsecure multiparty computation
SNOMED CTSystematized Nomenclature of Medicine and Clinical Terms
VAEvariational autoencoder

Authors' Contributions: MW conceptualized the study, curated the data, and wrote the original manuscript draft. MW also defined the initial topics 1 and 2; MZ defined the initial topics 3 and 4; YP defined the initial topics 5 and 6; IR defined the initial topics 7 and 8; and NA defined the initial topics 8, 9, and 10. MS provided the resources and supervised the study. The topics were revised and extended by KF, AK, SG, DK, KLH, ICJ, CS, JS, TS, PS, and DW. MW, NA, YP, MZ, IR, and MS performed the formal analysis, and MW, NA, and MS created the visualizations. NA, YP, MZ, IR, and MS wrote, reviewed, and edited the manuscript, and all authors read and agreed to the final version of the manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest: None declared.

Illustration

  • Research Paper Guides
  • Research Paper Topics

Public Health Research Topics: 200+ Ideas to Write Your Paper On

  • Speech Topics
  • Basics of Essay Writing
  • Essay Topics
  • Other Essays
  • Main Academic Essays
  • Basics of Research Paper Writing
  • Miscellaneous
  • Chicago/ Turabian
  • Data & Statistics
  • Methodology
  • Admission Writing Tips
  • Admission Advice
  • Other Guides
  • Student Life
  • Studying Tips
  • Understanding Plagiarism
  • Academic Writing Tips
  • Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

Illustration

  • Essay Guides
  • Formatting Guides
  • Basics of Research Process
  • Admission Guides
  • Dissertation & Thesis Guides

Public Health Research Topics

Table of contents

Illustration

Use our free Readability checker

Are you searching for the most fitting public health research topics for your academic assignments? Don't fret, we've got your back. Many scholars stumble upon this hurdle, but we're here to lend a helping hand. Check this guide from our online paper writing service to find a compelling public health topic idea for your project. We'll spotlight an assortment of fascinating public health topics for research papers to give you various suggestions to choose from.

What Are Public Health Research Topics?

Public health research topics are areas of study within the larger field of public health. They cover diverse issues like community health, disease prevention, and health policies. These research topic ideas help us understand and improve global healthcare. They can explore various factors like environmental impacts on public overall wellbeing or the effectiveness of health policies. In a nutshell, each topic is a chance to improve global health and devise effective strategies.

Characteristics of Good Public Health Research Topics

Choosing the right public health research topic is the first step to anchoring a successful project. A good research idea serves as the foundation providing a frame for your study. Here are some key characteristics that define good public health research topics:

  • Unique Your idea should offer a fresh perspective or address underexplored areas within public health.
  • Researchable Your topic should be within the scope of your resources and abilities. Make sure there are sufficient and accessible data sources to draw from.
  • Information-rich A research idea should evolve around issues that offer enough breadth and depth of information to support a rigorous analysis.
  • Specific It must be focused, clearly defined, and concise, preventing the research from becoming too broad or vague.
  • Relevant Try to align with current public health issues and trends, or have clear implications for policy, practice, or further research.

How to Choose a Public Health Research Topic?

The selection process can be daunting, but there are numerous ways to come up with an interesting and thought-provoking idea. Here are some tips on picking proper public health research topic ideas:

  • Start small Start by exploring areas that interest you and narrow down your search as you go along.
  • Explore resources Utilize online databases, literature reviews, and other sources to get more information on your topic.
  • Review current trends Check out the most recent publications to know what public health topics are in vogue and how they can be applied to your project.
  • Brainstorm ideas Take some time out for brainstorming sessions with your peers or professors. You'll come up with incredible insights that may spark the perfect topic.
  • Narrow down the list After you've gathered a sufficient amount of ideas, go through them and cut away any irrelevant or redundant topics.

List of Research Topics in Public Health

Ready to dive into the world of public health research but don't know where to start? Well, grab your pen and get ready to tick public health topics for research that meet your needs. Each of these subjects is original and offers a unique perspective in the global health domain.

  • How do climate changes influence public health?
  • How is the digital age affecting global health?
  • Dissecting health disparities in racial and ethnic minorities.
  • Are some health systems more effective than others?
  • What role does public health play in pandemic response?
  • Confronting the obesity epidemic.
  • Understanding the link between clean water access and public health.
  • What are some implications of e-cigarettes on public wellbeing?
  • Investigating strategies for promoting healthy aging.
  • How can we achieve global health security?
  • How does nutrition influence global communities?
  • Can urban planning affect public health?
  • Global crisis of antibiotic resistance.
  • What's the impact of stress on overall health?
  • Evaluating how air pollution impacts people?

Good Public Health Research Topics

Are you looking for public health project ideas that are both interesting and pertinent? Here's a list of the most compelling ideas to base your study on.

  • Social media in the discourse of public health.
  • Analyzing the effects of climate change on global disease patterns.
  • Exploring how technology is transforming healthcare delivery and access in disadvantaged communities.
  • Assessing the impact of health education on health behaviour change.
  • Investigating how public transport systems can improve access to healthcare services.
  • Analyzing strategies for reducing preventable chronic illnesses like diabetes and hypertension.
  • Private vs public clinics.
  • Nature-based interventions in promoting global health.
  • Investigating the role of education in healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Analyzing how artificial intelligence can be used to combat public health epidemics.
  • Examining strategies for managing infectious diseases across borders.
  • How does food insecurity influence public health outcomes?
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of public health policies in addressing global poverty.
  • Investigating how to build resilient and healthy communities after natural disasters.
  • Exploring how healthcare workers can better respond to social determinants of health.

Interesting Public Health Research Topics

If you are looking for something more unique and offbeat, check out these public health topics for a research paper or project.

  • Natural disasters on global health outcomes.
  • Investigating the use of virtual reality in managing hospitals worldwide.
  • How video games can promote physical activity?
  • How does digital healthcare influence global medical privacy?
  • Using mobile healthcare applications in rural areas.
  • Exploring the use of drones in global care delivery.
  • Evaluating strategies for reducing food waste and its influence on public health outcomes.
  • Examining how urban green spaces affect public wellbeing.
  • Using big data to predict outbreaks in global communities.
  • Artificial intelligence in diagnosing and managing chronic illnesses.
  • Analyzing strategies for reducing poverty-related diseases in developing countries.
  • Access to healthcare and its influence on mortality rate.
  • Using digital platforms in managing health issues across populations.
  • Investigating strategies for promoting mental health in underprivileged communities.
  • Exploring the influence of media on public health awareness.

Easy Research Topics About Public Health

Are you new to this domain and feeling a bit overwhelmed? We've all been there. That's why our team of seasoned term paper writers has put together a list of simpler topics for beginners. Think of them as the basic steps that will help you reach that balance. Let's set the stage with this simplified list of research topics in public health:

  • Understanding basic hygiene and its role in public health.
  • Does regular exercise contribute to better public health?
  • How does fast food culture affect public health?
  • Public health benefits of clean air.
  • Can pets improve global community wellbeing?
  • Why is health education important in schools?
  • Investigating the connection between social wellbeing and clean water.
  • Basic nutrition: What everyone should know?
  • Vaccinations: Why are they important?
  • How does poverty affect public health?
  • The role of public parks in promoting community health.
  • Stress: Its effects and ways to manage it.
  • Why smoking is dangerous?
  • AIDS awareness and its influence on global communities.
  • Exploring the link between pollution and global health.

Best Public Health Research Topics

Are you trying to make an impression with your global health research? You're on the right track! Below we've whipped up a list of the best public health topics to research that are not only in tune with the times but also versatile enough to fit any research. Just remember to always back up your ideas with strong, reliable evidence.

  • Health impacts of urbanization and city life.
  • Are healthier food options really healthier?
  • Prevalence of obesity: Causes and prevention.
  • How do vaccination campaigns affect public health?
  • How has COVID-19 reshaped public health policies?
  • Worldwide pollution and its effects on respiratory system.
  • The rise of telemedicine: A boon or a bane?
  • What is the role of physical activity in public health?
  • The correlation between education level and health outcomes.
  • How does income inequality impact public health?
  • Is there a link between social media use and anxiety?
  • Evaluating strategies for reducing drug and alcohol abuse within communities.
  • How can we achieve gender parity in public health?
  • Analyzing public policies for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
  • What are some implications of e-cigarettes for public wellbeing?

Current Research Topics in Public Health

There are so many topics and so much potential in them! To help you navigate this vast domain, we've gathered some of the best public health research questions that are perfect for a wide array of studies.

  • Health impacts of microplastics in our environment.
  • Psychological effects of long-term isolation.
  • How do urban green spaces influence community health?
  • Impact of shift work on physical wellbeing.
  • Potential risks of genetically modified foods.
  • Food deserts and their effect on community wellbeing.
  • How does the gig economy affect workers' health?
  • The role of bees in global health.
  • Mental health implications of cyberbullying among teenagers.
  • Antibiotic overuse in livestock.
  • Global consequences of increasing screen time.
  • Universal basic income on public health.
  • Addressing intimate partner violence as a public health issue.
  • Health literacy and its influence on global community.
  • Exploring the effect of noise pollution on human health.

Unique Public Health Research Topics

Do you want to stand out from the crowd with your public health research? Check these authentic research topics on public health that will put a spotlight on your hard work.

  • Addressing loneliness as a public health issue.
  • The role of urban farming in promoting food security.
  • Exploring the health effects of microaggressions.
  • How does light pollution affect humans?
  • Global strategies for dealing with "brain drain."
  • The role of architecture in hospital infection control.
  • Can we design cities to be healthier?
  • What are some negative effects of "fast fashion?"
  • Is there a link between deforestation and disease outbreaks?
  • Implications of 3D printed food.
  • A look into the long-term effects of forest fires.
  • Can providing universal internet access improve public health?
  • Studying implications of deep-sea mining.
  • Effects of climate change on water-borne diseases.
  • How does air travel influence global health?

>> View more: Healthcare Research Topics

Controversial Public Health Research Topics

Public health, being as diverse and ever-evolving as it is, certainly has its fair share of topics that stir up debate. They might make you sweat a bit, but they definitely add a kick. Buckle up and get ready to dive into these controversial public health research ideas:

  • Should vaccination be mandatory for everyone?
  • Are digital health records an invasion of privacy?
  • The debate over the global effects of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
  • Do energy drinks pose a significant risk?
  • Are alternative medicines effective or just a placebo effect?
  • Is healthcare a right or a privilege?
  • Implications of animal testing in global medical research.
  • Should junk food be taxed to combat obesity?
  • Use and abuse of ADHD medications.
  • Pros and cons of medical marijuana.
  • Is the anti-vaccination movement a public risk?
  • Impact of consumerism on healthcare quality.
  • Implications of surveillance in disease control.
  • Debates on the allocation of resources in a pandemic.
  • Should doctors be allowed to go on strike?

Public Health Research Topic Ideas for Students

Regardless of whether you are a beginner undergraduate student or an experienced doctoral candidate, the cornerstone of a successful project is an engaging topic. We have compiled a list of public health research question ideas suitable for every academic level. Choose the one you like and consider consulting with professional college paper writers to get expert help.

Public Health Research Topics for High School

High school students are required to carry out both analysis and research. But compared to other academic levels, it shouldn't be too extensive. We've curated a collection of researchable topics in public health that strike a balance between complexity and analysis. So, equip yourself with the spirit of inquiry and let's explore these ideas.

  • Local impact of poor air quality on public health.
  • Reasons for the rise in teenage smoking rates.
  • Analyzing strategies to reduce youth substance abuse.
  • What are some effective strategies for preventing teen pregnancies?
  • The role of school-based health education in improving public wellbeing.
  • What is the relationship between poverty and obesity?
  • What are some ways to reduce food insecurity among youth?
  • The correlation between school meals and childhood obesity.
  • Importance of school nurses in promoting public health.
  • The role of public health standards in preventing infectious diseases.
  • The impact of surgical site infections on public health.
  • The role of sanitation standards in mitigating public health risks.
  • School-based interventions for managing childhood diabetes.
  • Evaluating the effect of insurance reforms on healthcare accessibility.
  • An analysis of HIV/AIDS policies in South Africa.

Public Health Research Topics for College Students

Once you reach college, the research should be a bit more demanding. And so should public health topics for research papers! Here are some interesting ideas that require sufficient analysis and can amaze your professors.

  • Global efforts to reduce waterborne diseases.
  • Examining healthcare disparities in developing countries.
  • A look into methods for preventing cancer screenings disparities.
  • Evaluating public health interventions for managing diabetes.
  • Are alternative therapies an effective substitute for insulin?
  • How can public health education reduce maternal mortality?
  • How does telemedicine improve global healthcare delivery?
  • Malaria control in Sub-Saharan Africa: Progress and challenges.
  • Evaluating the efficacy of workplace wellness programs.
  • Assessing strategies to reduce suicide rates among youth.
  • Analyzing the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases with people.
  • Addressing malnutrition in children: A case study of Ethiopia.
  • The role of clean water access in public health in Bangladesh.
  • Obesity crisis in Mexico: A look into global implications.
  • How does Japan's aging population impact policies?

Public Health Research Questions

Now that you are in graduate school, you will be expected to come up with original research topics and explore them in-depth. Here are some creative public health research questions to motivate your advanced studies.

  • The role of social media in healthcare communication.
  • What role does mental health play in global population, and how can community programs address this?
  • How effective are public health campaigns in reducing the prevalence of smoking?
  • How has the COVID-19 pandemic shaped future public health strategies?
  • How can community initiatives combat the opioid crisis?
  • How does access to green space impact community health?
  • How can education programs effectively address the rise of sexually transmitted diseases in adolescents?
  • How can global systems improve to better accommodate people with disabilities?
  • What strategies can be employed to combat health disparities in racial and ethnic minorities?
  • How can public initiatives improve maternal health in low-income regions?
  • What are some effects of plastic pollution on people and how can it be mitigated?
  • Assessing the importance of public health standards in food industries.
  • The role of robotic surgery in improving public health outcomes.
  • Importance of standard guidelines in managing epidemics.
  • Effects of urbanization on residents of Brazil.

Public Health Research Proposal Topics

As a university student in public health, you will be expected to come up with original public health research proposal topics. Here are some thesis ideas and public health dissertation topics you can choose for a lengthy study.

  • Evaluating the role of immunization programs in mitigating childhood diseases.
  • A comparative study on the impact of public and private systems on population health.
  • How does healthcare reform influence access to care for low-income populations.
  • Evaluating the impact of the built environment on community health outcomes.
  • Are e-health services effective in rural settings?
  • Exploring the efficacy of school-based health education in India.
  • An analysis of public health initiatives to combat diabetes in Africa.
  • Assessing the benefits and risks associated with telemedicine.
  • Examining the impact of global warming on public health outcomes.
  • How does the use of mobile-health apps improve patient engagement?
  • A look into methods to reduce healthcare disparities in LGBTQ+ populations.
  • Assessing strategies to reduce homelessness and its impact on public health.
  • What changes are needed to improve global pandemic preparedness?
  • How can we reduce environmental health risks associated with industrialization?
  • Exploring factors that influence infant care practices in low-income regions.

>> Read more: How to Write a Research Proposal

Bottom Line on Public Health Topics for Research Papers

With these ideas in mind, we hope you will be able to craft an outstanding paper that can add value to the global domain. Choose the most appropriate research topic about public health and don't forget to credit your sources as you write. Feel free to look through our blog to find more inspirational ideas, starting from psychology research paper topics to business research topics .

Illustration

Reach out to our professional academic service and buy a research paper from our expert writers. We guarantee a unique, thoroughly researched, and perfectly formatted paper that will boost your grades and save you time.

Joe_Eckel_1_ab59a03630.jpg

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

You may also like

Chemistry_Research_Topics

StatAnalytica

100+ ICMR Research Topics: Unlocking Health Insights

icmr research topics

The landscape of healthcare research in India has been significantly shaped by the endeavors of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Established in 1911, the ICMR has played a pivotal role in advancing medical knowledge, informing health policies, and fostering collaborations to address pressing health challenges in the country.

In this blog, we embark on a journey through the corridors of ICMR research topics, shedding light on the council’s current and noteworthy research topics that are contributing to the nation’s health and well-being.

The Role of ICMR in Health Research

Table of Contents

The Indian Council of Medical Research operates as the apex body in India for the formulation, coordination, and promotion of biomedical research. With a mission to nurture and harness the potential of medical research for the benefit of society, ICMR has become a cornerstone in shaping health policies and practices. 

By fostering collaborations with researchers and institutions across the nation, ICMR has emerged as a driving force in advancing healthcare knowledge and outcomes.

Unlock the secrets of the microbial world without breaking the bank! Elevate your academic journey with affordable – because knowledge should be accessible to all students, regardless of budget constraints.

Understanding ICMR Research Methodology

The success of ICMR’s research lies not only in its expansive scope but also in its rigorous methodology and ethical considerations. ICMR has established guidelines that researchers must adhere to, ensuring that studies funded by the council are not only scientifically sound but also ethically conducted. 

This commitment to ethical research practices has been a cornerstone in building public trust and confidence in the findings generated by ICMR-funded studies.

100+ ICMR Research Topics For All Level Students

  • Infectious Diseases: Emerging pathogens and control strategies.
  • Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Diabetes, cardiovascular research.
  • Maternal and Child Health: Strategies for mortality reduction.
  • Biomedical Research: Molecular insights into diseases.
  • Cancer Research: Innovative approaches for treatment.
  • Epidemiology: Studying disease patterns and trends.
  • Vaccination Strategies: Enhancing immunization programs.
  • Public Health Interventions: Effective community health measures.
  • Antibiotic Resistance: Combating microbial resistance.
  • Genetic Studies: Understanding genetic contributions to diseases.
  • Neurological Disorders: Research on neurological conditions.
  • Mental Health: Addressing mental health challenges.
  • Nutrition and Health: Studying dietary impacts on health.
  • Health Systems Research: Improving healthcare delivery.
  • Ayurveda Research: Integrating traditional medicine practices.
  • Environmental Health: Impact of environment on health.
  • Emerging Technologies: Utilizing tech for healthcare innovations.
  • Pharmacological Research: Advancements in drug discovery.
  • Global Health Collaborations: International health partnerships.
  • Waterborne Diseases: Prevention and control strategies.
  • Health Policy Research: Shaping evidence-based policies.
  • Health Economics: Studying economic aspects of healthcare.
  • Telemedicine: Harnessing technology for remote healthcare.
  • Rare Diseases: Understanding and treating rare disorders.
  • Community Health: Promoting health at the grassroots level.
  • HIV/AIDS Research: Advancements in HIV prevention and treatment.
  • Aging and Health: Research on geriatric health issues.
  • Cardiovascular Health: Preventive measures and treatments.
  • Respiratory Diseases: Understanding lung-related conditions.
  • Zoonotic Diseases: Investigating diseases transmitted from animals.
  • Stem Cell Research: Applications in regenerative medicine.
  • Yoga and Health: Studying the health benefits of yoga.
  • Gender and Health: Research on gender-specific health issues.
  • Oral Health: Preventive measures and treatments for oral diseases.
  • Health Informatics: Utilizing data for healthcare improvements.
  • Health Education: Promoting awareness for better health.
  • Drug Resistance: Research on antimicrobial resistance.
  • Hepatitis Research: Prevention and treatment strategies.
  • Telehealth: Remote healthcare services and accessibility.
  • Diabetes Management: Strategies for diabetes prevention and control.
  • Tuberculosis Research: Advancements in TB diagnosis and treatment.
  • Fertility Research: Understanding reproductive health issues.
  • Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Integrating AI for diagnostics.
  • Health Disparities: Addressing inequalities in healthcare access.
  • Mental Health Stigma: Research on reducing stigma.
  • Mobile Health (mHealth): Applications for mobile-based healthcare.
  • Vector-Borne Diseases: Prevention and control measures.
  • Nanotechnology in Medicine: Applications in healthcare.
  • Occupational Health: Research on workplace health issues.
  • Biobanking: Storing and utilizing biological samples for research.
  • Telepsychiatry: Providing mental health services remotely.
  • Health Equity: Promoting fairness in healthcare delivery.
  • Community-Based Participatory Research: Engaging communities in research.
  • E-health: Electronic methods for healthcare delivery.
  • Sleep Disorders: Understanding and treating sleep-related conditions.
  • Health Communication: Effective communication in healthcare.
  • Global Burden of Disease: Research on disease prevalence and impact.
  • Traditional Medicine: Studying traditional healing practices.
  • Nutraceuticals: Research on health-promoting food components.
  • Health Data Security: Ensuring privacy and security of health data.
  • Regenerative Medicine: Advancements in tissue engineering.
  • Social Determinants of Health: Studying social factors affecting health.
  • Pharmacovigilance: Monitoring and ensuring drug safety.
  • Gerontology: Research on aging and the elderly.
  • Mobile Apps in Healthcare: Applications for health monitoring.
  • Genetic Counseling: Supporting individuals with genetic conditions.
  • Community Health Workers: Role in improving healthcare access.
  • Health Behavior Change: Strategies for promoting healthier habits.
  • Palliative Care Research: Enhancing end-of-life care.
  • Nanomedicine: Applications of nanotechnology in medicine.
  • Climate Change and Health: Impact on public health.
  • Health Literacy: Promoting understanding of health information.
  • Antibody Therapeutics: Advancements in antibody-based treatments.
  • Digital Health Records: Electronic health record systems.
  • Microbiome Research: Understanding the role of microorganisms in health.
  • Disaster Preparedness: Research on health response during disasters.
  • Food Safety and Health: Ensuring safe food consumption.
  • Artificial Organs: Advancements in organ transplantation.
  • Telepharmacy: Remote pharmaceutical services.
  • Environmental Epidemiology: Studying the link between environment and health.
  • E-mental Health: Digital tools for mental health support.
  • Precision Medicine: Tailoring treatments based on individual characteristics.
  • Health Impact Assessment: Evaluating the consequences of policies on health.
  • Genome Editing: Applications in modifying genetic material.
  • Mobile Clinics: Bringing healthcare to underserved areas.
  • Telecardiology: Remote cardiac care services.
  • Health Robotics: Utilizing robots in healthcare settings.
  • Precision Agriculture and Health: Linking agriculture practices to health outcomes.
  • Community-Based Rehabilitation: Supporting rehabilitation at the community level.
  • Nanotoxicology: Studying the toxicological effects of nanomaterials.
  • Community Mental Health: Strategies for promoting mental well-being.
  • Health Financing: Research on funding models for healthcare.
  • Augmented Reality in Healthcare: Applications in medical training and diagnostics.
  • One Health Approach: Integrating human, animal, and environmental health.
  • Disaster Mental Health: Addressing mental health issues after disasters.
  • Mobile Laboratory Units: Rapid response in disease outbreaks.
  • Health Impact Investing: Investing for positive health outcomes.
  • Rehabilitation Robotics: Assisting in physical therapy.
  • Human Microbiota: Understanding the microorganisms living in and on the human body.
  • 3D Printing in Medicine: Applications in medical device manufacturing.

Success Stories from ICMR-Funded Research

Highlighting the impact of ICMR-funded research is essential in appreciating the council’s contribution to healthcare in India. From breakthrough discoveries to successful interventions, ICMR-supported studies have led to tangible improvements in health outcomes. 

Case studies showcasing the journey from ICMR research topics and findings to real-world applications serve as inspiring examples of how scientific knowledge can translate into positive societal impacts.

Challenges and Opportunities in ICMR Research

While ICMR has achieved remarkable success in advancing health research, it is not without its challenges. Researchers face obstacles in conducting studies, ranging from resource constraints to logistical issues. 

Acknowledging these challenges is crucial in finding solutions and optimizing the impact of ICMR-funded research. Additionally, there are opportunities for collaboration, both nationally and internationally, that can further enrich the research landscape and accelerate progress in addressing health challenges.

The Future of Health Research in India: ICMR’s Vision

Looking ahead, ICMR envisions a future where health research continues to play a central role in shaping the well-being of the nation. Strategic goals include harnessing the power of technology and innovation to drive research advancements, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and addressing emerging health challenges. 

The vision extends beyond the laboratory, emphasizing the translation of research findings into practical solutions that can positively impact the lives of individuals and communities across India.

In conclusion, the Indian Council of Medical Research stands as a beacon in the realm of healthcare research, tirelessly working towards advancements that contribute to the well-being of the nation. 

By exploring ICMR research topics, understanding its methodology, and reflecting on success stories, we gain insight into the transformative power of scientific inquiry. 

As ICMR continues to forge ahead, the future of health research in India looks promising, guided by a vision of innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to improving the health of all citizens.

Related Posts

best way to finance car

Step by Step Guide on The Best Way to Finance Car

how to get fund for business

The Best Way on How to Get Fund For Business to Grow it Efficiently

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to FDA Search
  • Skip to in this section menu
  • Skip to footer links

U.S. flag

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

  •   Search
  •   Menu
  • Science & Research
  • Scientific Meetings, Conferences, and Workshops
  • FDA Omics Days 2024 - Precision in Practice: Regulatory Science, Best Practices, and Future Directions in Omics - 09/12/2024

Symposium | Mixed

Event Title FDA Omics Days 2024 - Precision in Practice: Regulatory Science, Best Practices, and Future Directions in Omics September 12, 2024

FDA Omics Days 2024 - Precision in Practice: Regulatory Science, Best Practices, & Future Directions in Omics

September 12, 2024

Where: FDA White Oak Campus Great Room and virtually via Zoom Webinar 

On This Page: FDA Omics Days 2024

In the case of a government shutdown that exceeds past October 5, 2023, the event will be rescheduled for a yet-to-be-determined date. Questions can be sent to [email protected]

On this page:.

  • September 12 th Agenda

Registration

View Recording 10/10 AM      View Recording 10/10 PM

View Recording 10/11 AM      View Recording 10/11 PM

View Posters

Poster Abstract Submission

Background:

At the FDA Omics Days 2024, the FDA Omics Working Group will be hosting speakers from industry, academia, and government to discuss topics important to the FDA. This event will include sessions on contemporary topics in the fields of precision medicine, multi-omics, and One Health.

Upon registration, further information will be sent to you that includes the link for the event. The meeting will be recorded and available after the event concludes.

Information for in-person attendees

  • Getting to FDA
  • Visitor Parking and Campus Map
  • Public Meeting Information
  • Non-FDA Participants: If you are a non-FDA participant, you will need to enter through Building 1 security screening and identify yourself as an FDA Omics Days presenter. You will then be directed to the Building 31, Great Room.

Poster Abstract Booklet

Additional details will be added closer to the event.

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Presenter bios and presentation titles

-->
Time Topics
9:00 am - 9:15 am ET
9:15 am - 10:00 am ET

10:00 am - 10:15 am ET

10:15 am - 11:45 am ET

11:45 am - 1:15 pm ET

1:15 pm - 2:45 pm ET

2:45 pm - 3:00 pm ET

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm ET

Back to the top

Twitter: #FDAOmicsDay2023

  • Work & Careers
  • Life & Arts

To cure disease, AI needs more of our data

To read this article for free register for ft edit now.

Once registered, you can:

  • Read this article and many more, free for 30 days with no card details required
  • Enjoy 8 thought-provoking articles a day chosen for you by senior editors
  • Download the award-winning FT Edit app to access audio, saved articles and more
  • Global news & analysis
  • Expert opinion
  • Special features
  • FirstFT newsletter
  • Videos & Podcasts
  • Android & iOS app
  • FT Edit app
  • 10 gift articles per month

Explore our full range of subscriptions.

Why the ft.

See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times.

International Edition

American Psychological Association Logo

The psychological toll of early-onset cancer

As patients develop cancer at younger ages, psycho-oncologists are studying the mental health impact and developing tailored interventions

Kate Middleton

Three key takeaways

  • Cancers once mostly seen in older adults are being increasingly diagnosed in people under 50, and researchers are working to tease apart the reasons why. 
  • The psychological effects of cancer in young and middle adulthood are profound and unique, as patients are often building their careers and families—and lacking savings. 
  • Psychologists are caring for this population by building out spaces for peer support in cancer centers and studying interventions like mindfulness and meaning-centered therapy.

When Kate Middleton announced she had been diagnosed with cancer in early 2024, the Princess of Wales described the news as “a huge shock.” After all, she is just 42 years old, and the vast majority of cancers (about 80%) are diagnosed in people over age 50, the American Cancer Society reports. 

Middleton is not the only household name to face cancer at a surprisingly young age. Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman shook fans and colleagues when he, without public warning died from colorectal cancer at age 43 in 2020.

And in March, actress Olivia Munn, 43, revealed she had been diagnosed with an aggressive, fast-moving breast cancer, and had undergone a double mastectomy and hysterectomy . “Cancer doesn’t care who you are; it doesn’t care if you have a baby or if you don’t have time,” Munn told People magazine in April. 

While increased awareness of the growing rates of cancer in younger populations is important, psychologists say the conversation needs to go beyond an emphasis on early detection. Understanding how the disease uniquely affects younger adults’ mental health, and learning how to treat this population’s specific psychological side effects, is critical too.

“Reports often do not adequately address the profound psychosocial impact of cancer on younger adults,” said epidemiologist Ola Abdelhadi, PhD , a postdoctoral researcher at University of California, Berkeley’s School of Public Health who studies how health policies affect disparities in care, quality of health care services, and associated costs for younger cancer patients.

“This age group faces unique emotional and psychological challenges, including disruptions to their education, career, social relationships, and future planning,” continued Abdelhadi, who was diagnosed with cancer at age 19 and had a recurrence at age 30. “The emotional toll and the need for specialized mental health support are frequently underreported.”

That’s where psychologists are stepping in, said Julienne Bower, PhD , a professor and chair of health psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). “We are getting to a place where we’re really being more mindful of the unique needs of this population, and so it’s really an exciting time for psychologists to be working in this area because there are a lot of opportunities for growth,” she said.

A unique developmental period with unique challenges

While a cancer diagnosis can be devastating at any age, it may affect younger adults’ mental health—and lives—more significantly and with more persistence over their lifetimes. One study, for instance, found that survivors who had been diagnosed between 15 and 39 years old had greater emotional distress than those who had been diagnosed at age 40 or older ( Boakye, E. A., et al., Annals of Epidemiology , Vol. 72, 2022 ).

“This is when they’re finishing their education, they’re working to build their careers, they’re initiating romantic relationships, getting married, thinking about having children. They’re not necessarily as financially stable as an older individual might be,” said Caroline Dorfman, PhD , director of Research and Behavioral Medicine for the Teen and Young Adult Oncology Program at Duke. “And so when they are diagnosed with cancer, there are a lot of different things that they need to take into account.”

One of those things is getting an accurate and timely diagnosis to begin with. Because health care providers are not typically expecting to find cancer in their younger patients, the route to an answer is often “prolonged” and “convoluted,” authors of a study in the British Journal of Cancer found. And the longer it takes to get a diagnosis, the higher the risk of depression, anxiety, and impaired health-related quality of life, the research showed ( Forster, A., et al., British Journal of Cancer , Vol. 126, 2022 ).

Compounding that distress is the financial toll of cancer treatment on people who have not had much time to build up savings. Sadly, this puts fertility preservation out of reach for many. Egg freezing, for instance, is not always covered by insurance and costs around $10,000, according to Minnesota Oncology .

Because of such costs, 23% of adolescent and young adult cancer survivors said they lacked money for basic necessities, one study found. Nearly half took on credit card debt and put off major purchases. Even many years after treatment, younger cancer survivors have not “caught up” with their peers financially or in the workplace, said Cristina Pozo-Kaderman, PhD , a senior psychologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute where she directs the Young Adult Program ( Thom, B., et al., Journal of Cancer Survivorship: Research and Practice , Vol. 17, No. 6, 2023 ).

Abdelhadi can relate. “There were times when I felt I was falling behind or missing out on life milestones,” she said. “However, this experience positively shifted my interest and passion toward cancer research.”

Psychological interventions that work

Despite the real mental and physical toll of developing cancer at younger ages, many patients find clarity through the process, experts say. Some say they are no longer going to work 60-hour weeks. Some become more adept at setting boundaries. Some are inspired to take better care of their health. 

“Patients in this age range are actually incredibly resilient,” Dorfman said. “When given the right tools and attention and the permission to not be OK, they actually do really well.”

Here are some of those tools.

1. Peer Support

Connecting with other cancer patients or survivors in the same life phase can ease a sense of isolation. Dana-Farber’s Young Adult Program, for one, offers programming for cancer patients from ages 18 into their early 40s, ranging from the educational (like sessions on how to advocate for oneself) to the purely fun (like Red Sox outings and book clubs). The program recently opened a lounge for this age group.

“The program provides many different ways for our young adults to connect, realizing that peer connection is critically important for them,” Pozo-Kaderman said.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Dorfman and colleagues are testing a group-based intervention , delivered via videoconferencing, that draws on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other approaches and is catered to the specific needs of young adult cancer survivors. While the project is ongoing, Abdelhadi says tailored interventions like it work.

“CBT that focuses on the unique concerns of young adults, such as body image issues, independence, and life planning, can be highly effective,” she said. “This therapy helps patients develop healthy coping strategies and manage distressing thoughts and emotions.”

3. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Research shows that younger cancer patients experience fear of recurrence more often than patients over 40 years old. This could be related to the fact that younger patients have both more time for the cancer to recur and more future life milestones those potential recurrences threaten to disrupt.

For this and other concerns, acceptance and commitment therapy is a promising intervention that aims to help people accept reality (like that recurrence is possible) while living mindfully and in line with their values.

4. Mindfulness Interventions

At UCLA, Bower and colleagues have been testing the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on breast cancer survivors under 50. They are finding that programs, like a 6-week mindfulness group course that helps participants manage physical and emotional discomfort, might not only improve mental health but also boost physical health such that the body becomes less “hospitable” to cancer in the future, Bower explained.

5. Meaning-Centered Therapy

Meaning-centered psychotherapy , developed by psychiatrist William Breitbart, MD, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, which aims to enhance patients’ sense of meaning and purpose, has been shown to effectively reduce psychological and spiritual distress among adult cancer patients.

There is reason to believe variations of it work well among younger adults with cancer. In one study in the Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology , cancer patients and survivors between ages 17 and 36 went through a 10-week program that prompted them to post photos on social media and answer related questions like “How has cancer changed who I am?” The researchers found participants had significantly lower depressive symptoms and a significantly better quality of life both at the end of the 10 weeks and 2 months later ( Pailler, M. E., et al., Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology , Vol. 9, No. 4, 2020 ).

These patients “do want to have meaning in their life. They do want to form relationships. They do have goals that they want to set for their life in their future,” Dorfman said. “And that’s where psychologists can really come in—to help them live their life in a way that is meaningful and in line with their values, even in the midst of a potentially life-limiting illness.”

Related and recent

IMAGES

  1. 235 Outstanding Nursing Research Topics and Ideas

    best research topics in health

  2. 250 Strong Health Research Topics for Students

    best research topics in health

  3. 211 Original Health Research Topics for A+ Paper

    best research topics in health

  4. 100+ Healthcare Research Topics (+ Free Webinar)

    best research topics in health

  5. 260 Excellent Medical Research Topics To Focus On

    best research topics in health

  6. 100 Excellent Medical Research Topics and Ideas

    best research topics in health

VIDEO

  1. Who can take part in health and care research

  2. Top 15 Best Research Topics for microbiology for researchers and M.sc. students #study #yt #video

  3. Research Topics in Business Management

  4. Research Topics for PhD in English Literature

  5. BeSt Research ToPiCs in Microbiology JuSt IN FeW ClIcKs #youtubeshorts #trendingshorts #newsupdate

  6. TOP 10 BEST RESEARCH TOPICS FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS IN 2024

COMMENTS

  1. 77 Exciting Medical Research Topics (2024)

    Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19. Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include: The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health. COVID-19 vaccination rates.

  2. 100+ Healthcare Research Topics (+ Free Webinar)

    Here, we'll explore a variety of healthcare-related research ideas and topic thought-starters across a range of healthcare fields, including allopathic and alternative medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, optometry, pharmacology and public health. NB - This is just the start….

  3. 151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024]

    151+ Public Health Research Topics [Updated 2024] The important area of public health research is essential to forming laws, influencing medical procedures, and eventually enhancing community well-being. As we delve into the vast landscape of public health research topics, it's essential to understand the profound impact they have on society.

  4. 300+ Health Related Research Topics For Medical Students(2023)

    Additionally, we will outline the crucial elements that every health-related research paper should incorporate. Furthermore, we've compiled a comprehensive list of 300+ health-related research topics for medical students in 2023. These include categories like mental health, public health, nutrition, chronic diseases, healthcare policy, and more.

  5. Public Health Research Topics & Ideas (Includes Free Webinar)

    Recent Studies: Public Health & Epidemiology. While the ideas we've presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual studies in the public health and epidemiology space to see how this all comes together in practice.

  6. 2021 Top 25 Health Sciences Articles

    Here, the authors investigate the fluctuations of physiological indices along aging trajectories and observed a characteristic decrease in the organism state recovery rate. Timothy V. Pyrkov ...

  7. 100+ Mental Health Research Topic Ideas (+ Free Webinar)

    Here are a few ideas to get you started. The impact of genetics on the susceptibility to depression. Efficacy of antidepressants vs. cognitive behavioural therapy. The role of gut microbiota in mood regulation. Cultural variations in the experience and diagnosis of bipolar disorder.

  8. 2021 Research Highlights

    With NIH support, scientists across the United States and around the world conduct wide-ranging research to discover ways to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability. Groundbreaking NIH-funded research often receives top scientific honors. In 2021, these honors included Nobel Prizes to five NIH-supported scientists. Here's just a small sample of the NIH-supported ...

  9. Current Topics in Public Health and related disciplines

    Discover the articles that are trending right now, and catch up on current topics in Public Health and related disciplines. We will update our collection every few weeks; come back to this page to be on top of the latest conversations in Public Health and Medicine. Previously featured articles are listed here.

  10. Top 10 Research Topics from 2021

    Find the answers to your biggest research questions from 2021. With collective views of over 3.7 million, researchers explored topics spanning from nutritional

  11. Healthcare Research Paper Topics

    100 Healthcare Research Paper Topics. The field of healthcare research encompasses a vast array of topics that are crucial for understanding, improving, and transforming healthcare practices. As students in the health sciences, you have the opportunity to explore these diverse areas and contribute to the knowledge base of healthcare research.

  12. 500+ Medical Research Topic Ideas

    Medical Research Topic Ideas. Medical Research Topic Ideas are as follows: The efficacy of mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The effects of vitamin D supplementation on bone health in postmenopausal women. The impact of social media on body image and eating disorders in adolescents.

  13. Research

    Health research entails systematic collection or analysis of data with the intent to develop generalizable knowledge to understand health challenges and mount an improved response to them. The full spectrum of health research spans five generic areas of activity: measuring the health problem; understanding its cause(s); elaborating solutions; translating the solutions or evidence into policy ...

  14. 226 Hot Public Health Thesis Topics: Great List Of Ideas

    To write a great thesis, start with the right topic. Keep reading as we reveal the best 226 public health thesis topics for top grades. Toll-free: +1 (877) 401-4335. Order Now. About; Prices; Services How It Works; Contact; ... 207 Mental Health Research Topics For Top Students 144 Outstanding Epidemiology Topics For Top Grades Post navigation.

  15. Frontiers in Public Health

    Mineral Particles and Fibers and Human Health Risks: State-of-the-Art in Characterization, Analysis, Tissue Analytics, Exposure Thresholds for Risk, Epidemiology, and Risk Assessment for Science-Based Regulation and Disease Prevention and Implications for Occupational Health and Safety. Kenneth A. Mundt.

  16. Medical Research Paper Topics

    This page provides a comprehensive list of medical research paper topics divided into 20 categories, each with 10 unique subjects. The categories span across various subfields, including anatomy and physiology, diseases, epidemiology, health and fitness, health disparities, healthcare, kinesiology, mental health, pharmacology, and veterinary ...

  17. Topics

    Research. Strategy and Development; Implementation and Impact; Integrity and Oversight; Practice. In the School; ... Topics. Our topic pages offer a one-stop-shop for insights, experts, and offerings by areas of interest. ... Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205. Footer social. LinkedIn ...

  18. Health News: Latest Research, Top Stories, Trending Topics

    Everyday Health provides the latest research, top stories, and trending topics in health and medical news information from our award-winning team of health and medical journalist. Contact us.

  19. Health and Medical Research Topics: 300+ Ideas to Write About

    Medical research topics are the ideas or concepts related to health and medicine. They often explore new treatments, developments in diagnosis, prevention of illnesses, or even the effects of lifestyle choices. The scope of topics in medicine is vast and can include such aspects: Clinical medicine. Biomedical research.

  20. Ten Topics to Get Started in Medical Informatics Research

    Topic Selection. The initial topics were defined based on current developments in the health informatics field and an increasing number of published manuscripts between 2000 and 2021 (based on title-abstract-keyword screening in Scopus using the keywords "Health" AND "Informatics" AND "domain") in the respective subdomains (Figure 1 A).). After a first definition of the specific ...

  21. Research Topics

    Arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, preventative cardiology and vascular topics research. Heart Institute. Biomechanics research, gait and mobility disorders, swallowing dysfunction research. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Brain tumor, MS, pediatric neurosurgery and transverse myelitis research.

  22. 200+ Public Health Research Topics & Ideas for Papers

    Public health research topics are areas of study within the larger field of public health. They cover diverse issues like community health, disease prevention, and health policies. These research topic ideas help us understand and improve global healthcare. They can explore various factors like environmental impacts on public overall wellbeing ...

  23. 100+ ICMR Research Topics: Unlocking Health Insights

    100+ ICMR Research Topics: Unlocking Health Insights. General / By Stat Analytica / 20th November 2023. The landscape of healthcare research in India has been significantly shaped by the endeavors of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Established in 1911, the ICMR has played a pivotal role in advancing medical knowledge, informing ...

  24. Cardiovascular Research Topics

    Cardiovascular Research Topics | Johns Hopkins Heart and Vascular Institute. Due to the downward trend in respiratory viruses in Maryland, masking is no longer required but remains strongly recommended in Johns Hopkins Medicine clinical locations in Maryland. . Home Heart and Vascular Institute Cardiovascular Research.

  25. These are the Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2024

    The World Economic Forum's Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2024 report lists this year's most impactful emerging technologies. The list includes ways artificial intelligence is accelerating scientific research with a focus on applications in health, communication, infrastructure and sustainability.

  26. FDA Omics Days 2024

    This event will include sessions on contemporary topics in the fields of precision medicine, multi-omics, and One Health. At the FDA Omics Days 2024, the FDA Omics Working Group will be hosting ...

  27. To cure disease, AI needs more of our data

    Such research might lead to earlier detection and more personalised treatments, improving the chances of survival. "More than 50 per cent of cancer diagnoses are stage 4 or beyond.

  28. The psychological toll of early-onset cancer

    Topics in Psychology. Explore how scientific research by psychologists can inform our professional lives, family and community relationships, emotional wellness, and more. ... And the longer it takes to get a diagnosis, the higher the risk of depression, anxiety, and impaired health-related quality of life, the research showed (Forster, A., et ...

  29. Systematic biases at play in clinical trials

    Randomized controlled trials, or RCTs, are believed to be the best way to study the safety and efficacy of new treatments in clinical research. However, a recent study found that people of color ...

  30. What might the next century hold for cardiovascular disease prevention

    Research shows health care outcomes improve when people are treated by a more diverse medical workforce. Health care professionals who represent the patient community they serve have greater cultural sensitivity to patient needs, fewer language barriers and foster greater trust, which can be critical in getting people to comply with medical advice.