These global stories were very, very, very popular in 2024
Our blog published hundreds of stories in 2024. These are the 11 that captured the most pageviews. If you look at the headlines, you'll understand why.
Health & Safety
Life Kit's most-read stories of 2024: Sleep myths, tipping etiquette, home design tricks
Comics, social etiquette and myth-busting stories ruled Life Kit in 2024. That includes guidance on what to do if a partner cheats — and how to tip at fast food joints.
A 50 thousand year-old love story between humans and Neanderthals
Tens of thousands of years ago, modern humans mated with Neanderthals. But exactly how and when that happened, and who those groups of humans were, was less known. New research adds some clues.
As a kid, I hated playing sports. As an adult, I fell in love with them
Want to start a new fitness activity? These older athletes have ideas.
A desert festival where robots are the headliner
Scientists are using the Mojave Desert to test robots for the next space age.
An FDA decision could come soon on whether to ban Red No. 3
The Food and Drug Administration is considering banning the food dye known as Red No. 3. It's used in candy, snacks and soda. An FDA spokesman says a decision could come "soon".
The dangers and health risks associated with black plastic
New research suggests that black plastic is associated with health risks. Researchers found toxic flame retardants in many black plastic household goods.
How are states spending their opioid settlement cash? Look yours up in this database
From addiction treatment to toy robot ambulances, here's how state and local governments used billions in opioid settlement funds in 2022 and 2023. Explore this database to find our how officials are using the payouts where you live.
People who rely on birth control to manage health conditions worry about access
People who rely on birth control to deal with other health conditions are particularly worried about how misinformation about the drugs has entered the political sphere.
How satellites are helping scientists study the sun
NPR's Scott Detrow talks with Damien Galano, project manager for European Space Agency's Proba-3 mission, about a new plan to study solar eclipses.