top of page
Exploring the Social Side of Health
Sharing research, stories, and reflections from medical anthropology on how culture, community, and systems shape health.


Why Sleep Is a Social Determinant of Health
“Just go to bed earlier” sounds simple. It treats sleep like a private habit, controlled by discipline, bedtime routines, and personal choices. But sleep does not happen in a vacuum. Imagine two people who both want eight hours of rest. One lives on a quiet street, works steady daytime hours, and has enough money to pay bills without constant worry. The other works overnight shifts, lives near a highway, shares a crowded apartment, and lies awake thinking about rent. Their in
Vansh Agrawal
Aug 46 min read


Why Volunteering Is Good Medicine for Your Body and Mind
A viral act of generosity can do more than raise money. It can remind us that helping strangers is one of the most human things we do. Recently, MrBeast released a video called “I Helped 100 Kids Fight Cancer.” The project brought together celebrities, athletes, and creators to give children with cancer memorable experiences while raising support for pediatric cancer research. The greatest basketball player of all time LeBron James was among the people who showed up, spending
Vansh Agrawal
Jul 287 min read


The Importance of Shared Meals for Health and Wellbeing
Eating alone has become a common part of many people’s daily lives. Busy schedules, remote work, and the rise of food delivery apps have made solitary meals more frequent than ever. While eating alone might seem like a simple convenience or personal choice, it affects more than just what we eat. Shared meals have long been a cornerstone of human connection, offering benefits that go beyond nutrition. Understanding why eating together matters can help us improve both our physi
Vansh Agrawal
Jul 213 min read
bottom of page