The UK government's new legislation could force tech companies to withdraw services from the country, leaving the NHS without secure messaging options. Patient care would suffer as a result, with doctors warning of an 'NHS wide problem immediately' if WhatsApp were to disappear.
A recent study found that people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have an increased risk of death from both natural and unnatural causes. The researchers suggest that better surveillance, prevention, and early intervention strategies should be implemented to reduce the risk of fatal outcomes in individuals with OCD.
A clinical trial found that a tailored programme of physiotherapy after a dislocated shoulder offers no additional benefits over general advice, supporting materials, and self-referral to physiotherapy. The study's findings provide evidence-based guidance for non-operative rehabilitation.
A systematic review of 14 peer-reviewed studies found that video gamers are exposed to high sound levels, often exceeding permissible safe limits. The authors urge greater public health efforts to raise awareness of potential risks, as there were over 3 billion gamers worldwide in 2022.
Australian research predicts a surge in same-level workplace falls among older women due to the growing number of females in the workforce. The study analyzed hospital admission records and found that women aged 45 and older account for 21% of these falls.
A nationwide study found that men with enlarged breast tissue (gynaecomastia) are at a 37% higher risk of early death. Those with pre-existing risk factors, such as cancer or circulatory diseases, are most vulnerable. The condition is often linked to hormone imbalances and weight gain.
A nationwide study in Sweden found that women with perinatal depression are more than twice as likely to die than those without. The risk is highest during the first year after diagnosis, especially due to unnatural causes such as suicide.
A study found that six in ten US physician contributors to the American Psychiatric Association's official manual of psychiatric disorders received payments from industry, totaling $14.24m. The study highlights concerns about editorial independence and suggests a rebuttable presumption against financial conflicts of interest among pane...
A sex-specific panel of 10 proteins can detect 18 different early-stage cancers, with high accuracy and sensitivity. The findings could lead to a new generation of screening tests for early cancer detection, particularly in women.
A large study of 223,526 UK Biobank participants found that early menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and fewer reproductive years are associated with a heightened risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Women are 4-5 times more likely to develop the disease under 50 than men.
A predominantly plant-based diet is associated with a 39% lower risk of COVID-19 infection. Participants who followed such diets had higher intakes of vegetables, legumes, and nuts, and lower intakes of dairy products and meat, which may help boost the immune system.
A study found a significant spike in emergency contraception sales in the US after New Year's Eve, with nearly 41,000 extra pills sold. The researchers highlight the need for improved access to contraception and prevention strategies during holidays associated with high-risk behaviors.
Researchers analyzed 48 Christmas dessert recipes from The Great British Bake Off and found that ingredients like fruit, coffee, and nuts were linked to a reduced risk of death or disease. However, ingredients like alcohol and sugar were associated with an increased risk.
The study found three distinctive acoustic features - roughness, mean, and period entropy of mel-frequency cepstral coefficients - that are associated with healing music's emotional responses. These features were consistently present across various genres, suggesting a universal language of music.
The use of 'trip-killers' to shorten psychedelic drug trips is a growing concern among doctors, with benzodiazepines and antipsychotics being the most frequently recommended options. However, warnings about their potential side effects are rarely included, highlighting a need for greater awareness.
A diabetes drug called dulaglutide may significantly lower a woman's risk of substantial weight gain after giving up smoking. In contrast to men, women are five times as likely to experience substantial weight gain after stopping smoking, according to the study.
A study published in The BMJ analyzed Barbie's medical and scientist dolls and found they largely depicted white, adult, female doctors with limited specialties. The research highlights the need for more diverse and accurate representations of medical professionals and scientists in toys to inspire young girls.
A new Doctor Who episode aired during the festive period is associated with lower death rates in the subsequent year across the UK. The study highlights the positive effect doctors can have when working during the holiday season, suggesting that watching a doctor care for people may encourage health-seeking behavior.
A recent study suggests that hospital coffee machines are not a breeding ground for bacteria and do not pose a risk to patients. Despite being touched by multiple people, the machines were found to harbor only a few medically relevant pathogens, with most being harmless commensals.
A BMJ investigation reveals lax regulation of prescription-only weight loss drug adverts in the UK, leaving patients vulnerable to potential harms. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has not issued a single sanction for prescription drugs in five years.
Researchers analyzed over 500 young skateboarders' moves, finding that flat ground, quarterpipe, and ramp tricks pose the highest risk of falls. The study suggests grading skatepark features according to popularity and expertise required to reduce fall risk.
A 7-year analysis of a US national injury database found that female victims of gun violence are less likely to die than male victims, despite having similar injury severity. They also experience better outcomes with fewer complications after hospital admission.
Researchers found that UK White and minority ethnic medical students have varying academic achievement gaps depending on their individual ethnicity and medical school attended. Minority ethnic students are more likely to be male, from deprived backgrounds, and achieve lower UK Foundation Programme scores compared to their White peers.
Research found a heightened risk of type 2 diabetes and stroke in women who started menstruating before age 13. Earlier age at first menstrual cycle was associated with higher diabetes risk after adjusting for influential factors, while very early age (10 or younger) linked to more than doubling stroke risk among those with diabetes.
A recent analysis found that US Minority adults who smoke have double the annual tobacco-related healthcare spend and higher long-term health risks compared to their White peers. Despite lower smoking rates and more quit attempts, minority adults are more likely to experience severe health consequences from smoking.
A small clinical trial found that twice daily transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) improved cognitive function in people with Alzheimer's disease, particularly word recall and recognition. Cortical plasticity was also enhanced after 6 weeks of treatment.
A recent survey of medical students in the US reveals that state abortion access is a key factor in choosing residency programs, with over half indicating it would influence their decision. The survey also highlights the importance of reproductive healthcare and contraception for residents, who are increasingly women.
A systematic review of over 250 social media measures found frequent or daily social media use associated with higher odds of alcohol consumption, drug use, tobacco use, risky sexual behaviors, and anti-social behavior. Exposure to content such as alcohol advertising had the strongest evidence of harm.
A recent study published in The BMJ suggests that actively monitoring abnormal cells on the cervix rather than removing them immediately may be associated with a higher long-term risk of cervical cancer. Women who underwent active surveillance had a nearly fourfold higher risk of cervical cancer after 20 years compared to those who rec...
A new study estimates that air pollution from fossil fuels accounts for 61% of global ambient air pollution deaths, corresponding to 82% of preventable deaths. Phasing out fossil fuels could save up to 5.1 million extra lives annually, with the greatest impact in South and East Asia.
A pooled data analysis of 10 studies found that walking speeds above 4 km/hour are associated with a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes. For every 1 km increase in speed, the risk drops by 9%. Regular brisk walking may be an effective strategy to stave off the disease.
A data analysis estimates that the annual economic cost of cigarette plastics waste is around US$26 billion, with cumulative costs reaching US$186 billion over 10 years. This environmental toll is preventable and accumulating, highlighting the need for tobacco industry accountability for marine pollution.
A study analyzing UK primary care records found a significant rise in transgender identity among young people and those from socially and economically deprived areas. The overall number of trans individuals increased five-fold between 2000 and 2018, with the highest rates observed among 16-29 year olds.
Research published in BMJ Open found that women spending 6+ hours/day on sedentary activities may double their risk of uterine fibroids before menopause. The study linked sedentary behavior to increased oestrogen levels, a known risk factor for the condition.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that receiving at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose before the first infection significantly reduces the risk of developing post-COVID-19 condition. Vaccinated individuals were approximately four times less likely to be diagnosed with long COVID compared to unvaccinated individuals.
A large US study found that death rates after major surgery are similar whether a male or female surgeon operates on a male or female patient. Despite small differences, researchers believe their findings can help improve processes and patterns of care for all patients.
A leading paediatrician calls for ban on strip searching minors in absence of an adult, citing a
Pfizer's Abrysvo vaccine was approved with conditions, including a warning about preterm birth. Experts debate whether pregnant women should have been informed about the potential risk. Some critics argue that notification would have caused unnecessary anxiety.
The UK soft drinks industry levy introduced in 2018 may have reduced the number of under 18s having a tooth removed due to tooth decay by 12%. The largest reductions were seen in children aged up to nine years old, with more than 5,500 hospital admissions for tooth decay potentially avoided.
Research published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine found that high-intensity interval training in water (AHIIT) improves exercise capacity in adults with chronic conditions, similar to land-based training. AHIIT may provide a safe and valuable alternative for people with chronic conditions who are unable to perform land-based HIIT.
The World Health Organization has updated its guidance on treatments for patients with COVID-19, incorporating the latest clinical trial evidence. The new recommendations take into account changes in SARS-CoV-2 variants and immunity related to global vaccinations.
The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) in the US is not meeting its standards, with reports of serious adverse events being missed or ignored. The system relies on voluntary reports from doctors and patients, but staffing issues and conflicting information have led to frustration among those who file reports.
A new study published in The BMJ found that the live zoster vaccine continues to provide some protection against shingles and its complications ten years after vaccination. The study analyzed data from over 1.5 million adults aged 50 and older, revealing a decline in vaccine effectiveness over time.
A new virtual/augmented reality playkit helps children prepare for MRI scans without sedation, reducing anxiety and boosting patient safety. The kit includes interactive games and augmented reality experiences to calm nerves and prepare kids for the procedure.
A significant increase in premature babies born at 22 weeks receiving respiratory life support has been observed in England and Wales following changes to national guidance. Overall survival remains low, but the proportion of these babies surviving to discharge has increased.
A new series by The BMJ offers actionable advice for doctors to make healthcare systems more sustainable. Practical actions include reducing nitrous oxide waste, using reusable vaginal speculums for cervical screening, and prescribing tablets over intravenous drugs.
A study found that patients with cancer who receive payments from industry are more likely to receive non-recommended and low-value treatments. This association was strongest for denosumab, GCSF, and nab-paclitaxel, but not branded drugs. Further research is needed to better understand the impact of industry payments on cancer care.
A recent investigation found that some English hospitals are using foreign doctors as part of fellowship schemes, paying them less than trust-employed doctors and limiting their benefits. The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges' scheme has seen over 6,986 trainees from countries including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India since 2009.
Older Black Americans are more likely to receive low value acute diagnostic tests than older White Americans, while older White Americans were more likely to receive low value screening tests and treatments. These differences persisted within health systems and were driven by differential treatment within the system.
The authors argue that tackling climate change and biodiversity loss requires a unified approach, as both crises have devastating impacts on human health. The World Health Organization should declare the indivisible climate and nature crisis as a global health emergency.