A large Swedish study found that first-born children have a lower risk of cardiovascular events, while people with lots of siblings are more likely to experience these events. The study also suggests that family size may play a role in cardiovascular health.
A recent study found that up to a third of patients taking methotrexate had inadequate antibody levels after receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This is compared to healthy participants and those on other immunomodulatory drugs, who showed an adequate immune response.
Experts recommend a mandatory UK register of doctors' financial and non-pecuniary interests. The proposed register aims to increase transparency for patients and reduce potential conflicts of interest, following concerns raised by the Cumberlege review.
A study published in The BMJ found that 979,000 total excess deaths occurred in 29 high-income countries in 2020, with the US and UK leading the way. Excess deaths were particularly high among men aged 75 or older.
Despite its commitment to tackling carbon emissions, Wellcome's £28 billion endowment holds significant stakes in fossil fuels. The charity has refused divestment despite criticism and the success of other institutions that have made similar moves.
A US study published in The BMJ found that 14% of adults with COVID-19 developed new conditions requiring medical care during the post-acute phase. Risk was higher in younger adults and those with pre-existing conditions, but persisted even among those who recovered at home.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that accurately predicted cardiac arrest risk by combining timing and weather data. The results showed that Sundays, Mondays, public holidays, winter, and low temperatures were associated with higher risks of cardiac arrest.
Autistic people in Europe struggled to access COVID-19 testing, treatment, and hospital care due to communication barriers and sensory sensitivities. The pandemic widened existing health inequalities, resulting in significant harm to this community.
A US study suggests that delaying the second dose of COVID-19 vaccines for people under 65 could result in lower mortality rates, with estimates suggesting a 20% reduction in deaths. The strategy is optimal when vaccine efficacy from one dose is 80% or higher and vaccination rates are low.
UK's COVID-19 travel plan will allow new variants to enter the country, says virologists. Researchers warn that resuming international air travel poses a risk to controlling virus transmission and tackling climate change.
Research published in BMJ Open suggests that long-term use of prescription medications for insomnia does not improve sleep quality or duration in middle-aged women. Despite this, many people still take these drugs due to chronic insomnia.
Frontline healthcare workers may face temporary redeployment if they refuse COVID-19 vaccination, according to ethicists. A mild form of mandatory vaccination policy is justified to protect patients and colleagues.
A recent study published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood found a significant rise in young children swallowing magnets over the past 5 years in the UK. Nearly half of these cases required surgery for retrieval, highlighting the dangers of small, powerful magnets, especially those intended for toys.
Research strongly links thin and brittle bones to increased heart attack and stroke risk in women. Thinning lower spine, top thigh bone, and hip were independently associated with a heightened risk, while osteoporosis was linked to a 79% higher cardiovascular disease risk.
Research published in Gut journal reveals a strong association between daily sugar-sweetened drink intake and increased risk of early-onset colorectal cancer. Women who consumed two or more drinks per day were nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer before age 50, according to the study.
A global review of natural disasters reveals a significant increase in violence against women and girls, with stressors like trauma and financial insecurity emerging as key triggers. The study emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive policies and inclusion of women in disaster management to prevent such violence.
A large study found a slightly increased rate of vein blood clots, including cerebral venous thrombosis, after the first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca covid-19 vaccine. However, researchers stress that the risk is considered low and the benefits of vaccination still outweigh the risks for most age groups.
Experts argue that PTSD is often conflated with normal responses to stress, leading to increased pressure on services. However, another study suggests that PTSD may be underdiagnosed, with only a small proportion of those seeking help receiving a diagnosis.
A study published in The BMJ found that ICU admission is associated with a small increased risk of future suicide or self-harm after discharge. Younger patients with pre-existing psychiatric illness and those who received invasive life support were at higher risk, according to the research.
Children born preterm remain at high risk of developmental difficulties affecting behavior and learning ability. Rates of neurodevelopmental disabilities increase as gestational age decreases, with 28% severe to moderate disabilities among those born 24-26 weeks.
Experts debate whether wearing masks outdoors can help reduce covid-19 transmission and encourage mask-wearing indoors. Some argue that normalising outdoor mask-wearing can bring benefits, while others believe efforts should focus on reducing indoor transmission.
A large analysis of patient data suggests that delayed antibiotic prescribing is a safe and effective strategy for most patients, including those in higher risk subgroups. The study found no significant difference in symptom severity or duration between delayed and immediate antibiotics, but a slight benefit in reducing re-consultation...
Experts argue that universal low-risk testing is unlikely to reduce transmission and encourage prioritizing the improvement of testing programmes for those with symptoms. They also emphasize the need for transparency, sound evaluation, and high-quality testing services in addressing the pandemic.
Researchers found that shift working could be just as important a risk factor as already known high risk features such as ethnicity and living in poorer areas. Shift workers were more likely to test positive for Covid-19, with those doing irregular night shifts being three times more likely.
Exposure to secondhand smoke increases oral cancer risk by 51%, according to a review of existing research. Long-term exposure is associated with significantly higher risk, highlighting the need for effective prevention programmes.
A study published in BMJ Military Health found that female military veterans experience unique barriers to accessing mental healthcare, including a lack of recognition of their veteran status and negative stereotypes. The research highlights the need for further studies to address these issues and ensure equal access to support services.
A national registry is needed to capture all pharma/medical device industry payments and benefits made to doctors, healthcare organisations, and patient support groups in the UK. The UK government has been dragging its feet on setting up such a system despite recommendations from key reviews.
A large population study found that taking probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, multivits or vitamin D was associated with a lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, with protective effects seen only among women. The study used data from the COVID-19 Symptom Study app and analyzed over 372,000 UK subscribers.
A comparative study found that Heat not Burn products may cause reduced endothelial function and increased oxidative stress in users, similar to conventional cigarette smokers. The study suggests that these products should not be recommended for smoking cessation or as a less harmful alternative.
A case report warns of a potential link between medical cannabis and early puberty in children with severe childhood epilepsy. The 2-year-old boy's testosterone levels were abnormally high after using cannabis oil, raising concerns about the hormonal consequences of cannabis use.
A 21-year-old's excessive energy drink consumption has been linked to heart failure, highlighting the potential risks of these drinks. The case report warns of the need for clear warnings about the cardiovascular dangers of large-scale energy drink consumption.
Data from two large studies published by The BMJ found that socioeconomic status is the dominant factor in health disparities between US and UK adults. While healthy lifestyles reduce disease burden, they only explain a small proportion of excess risks. Other measures tackling social determinants of health are warranted.
Experts argue that the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics should not be held this summer due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns. They point out that vaccine roll-out has been inequitable, reducing access in many low-income countries, and that Japan's lack of control over community transmission poses a significant risk.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that discontinuing oxytocin stimulation during induced labour may lead to a reduced risk of uterine hyperstimulation and abnormal fetal heart rate. This finding suggests that routine discontinuation of oxytocin stimulation could be beneficial in settings with limited monitoring resources.
COVID-19 experts argue that close-range inhalation is the primary route of transmission, and that improving indoor ventilation can help reduce aerosol concentrations. Effective masks with high filtration efficiency are also crucial in protecting against inhaled aerosols.
Research found high dietary intake of animal products, processed foods, and sugary drinks is linked to an 'inflammatory' gut microbiome. Conversely, a diet rich in plant-based foods may promote 'friendly', anti-inflammatory microbes that help control inflammation.
A small clinical trial found that cloth face coverings reduce exercise performance and increase shortness of breath and claustrophobia at higher intensities. The researchers suggest modifying exercise frequency, intensity, duration, and type to compensate for the discomfort associated with mask-wearing.
A large US study found that physical inactivity is associated with more severe COVID-19 infection and a heightened risk of dying from the disease. Patients who were consistently inactive during the pandemic were more likely to be admitted to hospital, require intensive care, and die than those who met physical activity guidelines.
A BMJ investigation found that many UK universities are not collecting data on student testing and positivity rates. Experts describe campus testing as haphazard, with a high cost per positive result, likely underestimated due to staffing costs.
A large UK study found COVID-19 discharged patients had higher rates of organ damage and disease compared to similar individuals in the general population. The research suggests a substantial long-term burden of COVID-19-related illness on hospitals and broader healthcare systems.
Adolescents aged 10-19 worldwide face numerous challenges to their wellbeing, including social injustice, inadequate mental health, and climate change. Governments and health leaders are calling for concrete policies and sustained investments to address these issues and empower today's adolescents to solve the problems they will inherit.
Levels of adherence to the UK's test, trace, and isolate system are low, with only half of respondents able to identify covid-19 symptoms. Intention to self-isolate is high but actual behavior is lower due to various reasons such as needing to go to work or care for others.
Research estimates that physical inactivity is responsible for up to 8% of non-communicable diseases and deaths globally. The impact per person is greatest in high-income countries, while middle-income countries have the largest population affected by physical inactivity.
Research published in British Journal of Ophthalmology found that normal-tension glaucoma is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and possibly dementia. The study suggests that the disease pathways for normal-tension glaucoma may be similar to those for dementia.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer people with severe asthma attacks sought medical help or were hospitalized for asthma exacerbations. A combination of factors, including reduced air pollution and improved self-management, may have contributed to this reduction. Additionally, a study in South Korea found a decrease in hospital admiss...
Research suggests non-drug therapies like exercise and social interactions may reduce symptoms of depression in people with dementia. These interventions are found to be as or more effective than drugs in treating depression, suggesting a shift towards 'social' prescribing.
Women who experience a miscarriage are more likely to die prematurely due to cardiovascular disease. Research found that miscarriages, especially those occurring early in life or recurrently, can signal an increased risk of premature health risks.
Research suggests even slight increases in nitrogen dioxide levels are associated with significant rises in cardiovascular and respiratory deaths. The study's findings support revising and tightening current air quality guidelines for greater public health benefit.
Researchers have identified distinct chemical signatures for concussion in the spit of elite male rugby players, suggesting a potential non-invasive diagnostic test. The findings could help diagnose concussions at all levels of participation, particularly at grass-roots levels where medical assessments are not readily available.
Patients treated with infliximab have impaired antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2, increasing susceptibility to recurrent COVID-19. The drug also impairs the immune system's ability to generate antibodies after vaccination.