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.
Research suggests that Tai Chi practice can slow Parkinson's disease progression, improve non-motor symptoms, and lower medication needs over time. The study found significant benefits in disease severity, cognitive function, sleep quality, and complication prevalence in the Tai Chi group compared to the standard care group.
A daily tally of 20-25 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity may be enough to offset the heightened risk of death from a highly sedentary lifestyle. Higher daily tallies are linked to a lower risk, irrespective of time spent seated.
A large data study suggests extending annual screens to 2 years for those at 'low risk' of diabetic eye disease could lead to critical delays in treatment and/or sight loss. The research, based on a diverse database, found that Black people are significantly more likely to develop sight-threatening diabetic eye disease.
Researchers analyzed the LODESTAR clinical trial data to compare the long-term effects of rosuvastatin and atorvastatin on adults with coronary artery disease. The study found that both statins were effective in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and death, but rosuvastatin carried a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Researchers from the BMJ Group conducted a UK trial comparing septoplasty to medical management in adults with at least moderate symptoms of a crooked septum. Septoplasty was found to be more effective in improving SNOT-22 scores and quality of life outcomes, suggesting it should be offered to adults with at least moderate symptoms.
A large study found that having older siblings and childhood tonsil removal are associated with a heightened risk of ankylosing spondylitis. Serious childhood infections also played a role in the development of the condition, while multiple birth and season of birth had varying effects.
A pooled data analysis of virtual reality studies suggests it helps patients with cancer, dementia, and other long-term conditions cope better with medical treatment and emotional impact. However, further research is needed to understand how the technology works and its long-term effects.
A recent study published in Family Medicine and Community Health found that ChatGPT may be better than human doctors at following recognized treatment standards for clinical depression, without gender or social class biases. The AI technology provided fast, objective insights that supplemented traditional diagnostic methods and offered...
A nationally representative survey found significant gaps in UK public awareness of tell-tale cancer signs in kids and teens, with only a third expressing confidence in recognising symptoms. The findings highlight the need for initiatives to raise awareness and improve early diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancer.
A new trial suggests that ultrasound-guided lavage and steroid injections for calcific tendinopathy provide no meaningful benefits over placebo. The study's findings question the use of these treatments and should lead to a critical reconsideration of existing treatment guidelines.
Researchers found that genetic variations in four genes were more common in people with CRPS than those with chronic back pain. However, men were more likely to have these genetic variants but less likely to develop the condition. This suggests that sex-specific mechanisms may be at play, which could influence treatment responses.
A study found that Singapore's 2013 extension of its smoke-free law to communal areas and outdoor spaces was associated with a monthly fall in heart attack rates, particularly among older people and men. The researchers estimate that this may have prevented around 20,000 additional heart attacks.
A study found that renting in the private sector is associated with faster biological ageing, but this effect can be reversed through policy changes. The research emphasizes the importance of housing policy in improving health outcomes.
The Oregon Death with Dignity Act has been in place since 1997, but a review found significant data gaps, including missing clinical complications and key decision-making information. The study analyzed 25 years of annual reports, revealing a decline in doctor-patient relationships and referrals for psychiatric evaluations.
Research found that women, Black and Asian people, and those from deprived areas are less likely to receive life-saving heart valve replacement in England. Timely intervention occurred in around two-thirds of those from the least deprived areas compared to just over half of those from the most deprived.
A large US study found that increased fibre and carbohydrate from whole grains, fruit, and non-starchy vegetables is associated with less weight gain in midlife, while refined carbohydrates are linked to greater weight gain. Replacing refined carbs with whole grain equivalents results in less weight gain.
A survey by The BMJ found that patients in deprived areas have limited access to vital diagnostic tests for respiratory conditions. Despite NHS promises, GPs report 'troubling' lack of services, while Asthma + Lung UK warns of acute and long-term deterioration without timely diagnosis.
Prolonged calorie mismatch may lead to Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport, affecting multiple body systems and athletic performance. The statement highlights new evidence on inadequate carbohydrate intake and the overlap with overtraining syndrome.
Researchers found that overly broad definitions and lack of comparator groups have distorted the true risk of long COVID. This has led to increased public anxiety, healthcare spend, misdiagnoses, and diversion of funds from those with other long-term conditions.
A study found that autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) can safely slow the progression of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. In nearly two-thirds of patients, there was no evidence of disease activity after 5 years and almost two-thirds after 10 years.
Research finds that wealthier children in the UK experienced a greater decline in mental health during the pandemic, contradicting predictions. Meanwhile, child mental health has become more equal but worsened overall, according to the study.
A recent study suggests that the UK's cost of living crisis will significantly impact health outcomes, particularly for those in the most deprived households. Without mitigating measures, inflation is expected to increase deaths by up to 23% and reduce life expectancy by 2.7 years in the most deprived areas.
Doctors who contracted long covid while working are struggling to access support and financial aid due to inadequate workplace protection. The condition affects up to 4.41% of healthcare workers, with nearly half losing income, and many facing dismissal or early retirement.
The NHS is struggling to digitize patient records and prescribing, with many trusts relying on paper notes and drug charts. Despite progress towards electronic records, data sharing difficulties are preventing the most advanced trusts from realizing their full potential.
A survey of 10,486 UK medical students found that nearly a third plan to leave the NHS within two years due to issues like pay, work-life balance, and working conditions. The researchers emphasize the need for a multifaceted approach to address the complex factors driving doctors' exodus.
A survey of 1958 NHS health professionals found that work-related stress, workload intensity, and staffing levels were the primary factors driving decisions to leave. The results highlight the importance of addressing these fundamental factors to improve staff retention in the NHS.
A study of 151 patients with functional dyspepsia found that turmeric's curcumin was as effective as omeprazole in reducing symptoms after 28 days. Patients who took the combination treatment showed stronger improvements after 56 days, suggesting curcumin may be a viable alternative to conventional drugs.
A large-scale study of the UK Biobank data found that shorter white blood cell telomeres are associated with a higher risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Telomere length was also linked to smaller total brain volume and reduced brain structure.
Women who use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers alongside hormonal contraception may be at a small increased risk of developing venous thromboembolism. High-risk hormonal contraception and NSAIDs like diclofenac are linked to higher blood clot risks.
A study found that high intake of certain emulsifiers (E460-E468, E471, E472) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers suggest that these findings have important public health implications and may contribute to re-evaluation of food additive regulations.
Research finds ADHD is a risk factor for major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anorexia nervosa, and suicide attempts. The study used Mendelian randomization to establish potential links between ADHD and these disorders.