Health & Science

Recent surveys suggest that half of U.S. adults experience loneliness –– and the impact is not equal based on age and demographics. As more attention has been brought to the impact of loneliness and social isolation on people’s mental and physical health, some researchers, congregations and health organizations are taking steps to address it as part of preventative care.

Subaru of Indiana in Lafayette is the company’s only auto manufacturing site outside of Japan and produces about half of all Subarus sold in the U.S.

While utilities say they need these plants to serve as a backup when the sun isn’t shining and the wind isn’t blowing, environmental activists say they’re unnecessary, polluting, and costly for customers. Who’s right? It’s not that simple.

Indiana’s infant and maternal mortality rates remain among the worst in the country. And state data shows substance use during pregnancy contributes to the issue.

A new COVID-19 booster vaccine will be available to Hoosiers by the end of the week after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance. The new booster is designed to address strains of the virus that have caused an increase in hospitalizations over the last few months.

Amid tense negotiations between the United Auto Workers union and the ”big three” automakers — Ford, General Motors and Stellantis — union workers have growing concerns about the transition from internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs).

Rural hospital leaders want more support to address obstetrics care deserts. Providers have possible solutions, but say they need help from the state.

Oil refineries emit benzene — a chemical that can cause cancer and other health problems. From 2018 to 2021, 25 oil refineries in the U.S. had high levels of benzene at their fence lines for more than two weeks after the plants should have taken action to lower them.

People with disabilities can have a difficult time finding a dentist who can accommodate them if their wheelchair doesn’t fit or cognitive disabilities make it difficult for patients to remain still. Indiana University will construct a dental clinic to address this gap.

Union staff at a northwest Indiana nursing home might strike over their first contract. The workers and Teamsters Local 135 allege Brickyard Healthcare refuses to negotiate on more affordable health insurance. Workers tried to drum up community support on Thursday by distributing fliers outside the Terrace Care Center Nursing Home in LaPorte.