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.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateOct 24, 2023 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.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2023 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.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2023 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.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Evidence-Based Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 11, 2023 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.
Research published in BMJ Oncology reveals a global increase of 79% in new cancer cases among those under 50 between 1990 and 2019. Breast cancer accounted for the highest number of early onset cases, while cancers of the windpipe and prostate rose the fastest.
Research finds that English hospitals meeting NHS 18-week waiting list target often only treat patients who are close to the threshold, rather than those in need. The study suggests that some trusts may prioritize compliance over clinical need.
A large private laboratory is still processing finger prick tests for oestrogen levels despite warnings of unreliability. Experts raise concerns about the validation and regulation of online tests and laboratories, citing a lack of robust assessment and oversight.
Experts recommend avoiding cannabis during adolescence, pregnancy, and driving due to links to psychosis, depression, and motor vehicle accidents. However, cannabidiol shows promise in reducing seizures and managing chronic pain.
A large population study found that unhealthy lifestyles between ages of 60 and 64 are associated with a doubling in the risk of nursing home admission. Physical inactivity, smoking, poor diet, and sleep disorders were linked to an increased risk of care, particularly among 60-64 year olds.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2023 Research suggests that certain gut problems, such as gastroparesis, dysphagia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may precede the development of Parkinson's disease. A nationwide medical record network study found a significant association between these conditions and an increased risk of Parkinson's diagnosis.
The FDA approved brexpiprazole, an antipsychotic drug, for treating agitation in elderly patients with dementia, despite trials showing it failed to provide a clinically meaningful benefit and increased the risk of death. The decision may reverse efforts to reduce off-label use of antipsychotics in care homes.
A smartphone intervention app reduced unhealthy alcohol use among university students, with a 10% decrease in weekly drinks and 11% fewer heavy drinking days. The app, available for both Apple and Android smartphones, was effective in promoting healthier drinking habits without requiring significant resources.
Royal colleges have received £9m in payments from drug and medical device companies since 2015 but often don't disclose these payments publicly. The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges should coordinate standardised disclosure, increasing trust and informed discussion about payment governance.
Research tracking nuclear industry workers' deaths suggests prolonged low-dose ionising radiation exposure increases solid cancer mortality by approximately 52% per unit of radiation absorbed. The study's findings should inform current rules on workplace protection from low-dose radiation.
Researchers found that young vapers are at risk of respiratory symptoms such as bronchitic symptoms and shortness of breath, even if they or others around them smoke cigarettes or cannabis. The study also highlights the need for regulatory oversight of vaping products.
A French study found that recreational drug use was associated with a nearly 9-fold higher rate of death or need for emergency intervention in cardiac intensive care patients. The study detected various substances in 1 in 10 patients, with cannabis being the most frequently detected substance.
A large long-term study found that good cardiorespiratory fitness in young men is associated with a significantly lower risk of developing nine specific cancers, including a 40% reduced risk of liver cancer. Higher fitness was also linked to lower risks of rectal, pancreatic, and bowel cancers.
Researchers compared absorbency of 21 menstrual hygiene products using human red blood cells, finding that menstrual discs held the most blood, while super-absorbency period pants held the least. The study highlights the need for more research on menstruation to improve diagnostic accuracy and care for women.
A large long-term study found exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with increased community mental health services use among people with dementia. Reducing nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter could help free up resources in overstretched psychiatric services.
A high level of cardiac troponin is associated with a 76% increased risk of death, including non-cardiovascular causes, over medium-term survival. Researchers suggest that troponin may serve as a general indicator of health issues, including undiagnosed conditions.
A pooled data analysis of 32 studies found that women who experienced childhood trauma were 37% more likely to have pregnancy complications than those who didn't. The risk of pregnancy-related diabetes, antenatal depression, underweight or premature babies, and preterm delivery was also significantly higher.
A pooled data analysis found that at least 25 minutes/day of slow walking can counteract the negative effects of bed rest on older hospital patients. Daily 50 minutes of slow walking or a mix of physical activities is even more effective in improving their functional capacity.
A study of over 20,000 patients with a hepatitis C cure found that they have a substantially greater risk of death compared to the general population. Drug and liver-related causes were the main drivers of excess deaths, highlighting the importance of continued support to fully realise the benefits of a hepatitis C cure.