A single dose of targeted radiotherapy during surgery is comparable to conventional radiotherapy in efficacy for most women with early breast cancer. This reduces the need for extra hospital visits and minimizes side effects. The long-term results show no significant difference in survival or likelihood of cancer recurrence.
Researchers argue that protracted debates about face coverings as a medical intervention have delayed implementation of a valuable preventive tool. By framing face coverings as a social practice, the public is more likely to wear them regularly, according to Helene-Mari van der Westhuizen and colleagues.
A study published by The BMJ found that children exposed to high levels of fine air pollutants (PM2.5) are more likely to develop asthma and persistent wheezing. Higher levels of PM2.5, as well as exposure to other pollutants, were associated with an increased risk of developing these conditions.
Researchers found that women who deliver preterm or extremely preterm have a higher risk of dying from any cause, with 1.7-fold and 2.2-fold increased risks compared to full-term deliveries. The excess deaths associated with preterm delivery persist for up to 40 years after birth.
Research published in BMJ Military Health finds a strong association between heavy class A drug use and sight loss among US military personnel. Those with military experience are more likely to use illicit drugs and report partial or total blindness than civilians.
Research finds strong association between smoking and reduced cancer screening services use among postmenopausal women, leading to advanced disease diagnosis. Current smokers are nearly 3 times as likely to be diagnosed with late stage breast cancer, and over twice as likely to be diagnosed with late stage bowel cancer.
Children accounted for only 1408 out of 129704 positive results, equal to 1% of total and 4% of tests carried out on them. The case fatality rate was estimated to be less than 1 in 200 (0.5%)
Research suggests that 1 in 4 UK puppies may be acquired before the minimum recommended age, risking health and behavioral problems. Factors associated with early adoption include visiting the puppy before taking it home or intending to use the dog for work.
A study published in The BMJ found that freezing embryos for later transfer does not result in a higher chance of pregnancy compared to fresh embryo transfer. Researchers recommend using fresh embryo transfer as the gold standard for women with no immediate risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Decades of research have failed to show consistent benefit for lowering LDL cholesterol levels in reducing heart disease and death. The approach has been shown to fail in identifying those at high risk while including those at low risk, who don't need treatment.
A review of 34 studies found that ß2-agonists improved anaerobic exercise performance by 5% in athletes without asthma, with significant benefits for sprint and strength performances. The oral route was more effective than inhalation, but the impact of WADA-approved versions remains uncertain.
A panel of experts recommends using remdesivir in patients with severe COVID-19 to potentially reduce recovery time. However, the evidence is uncertain due to limited trials and study limitations, making it a costly treatment option.
Research finds concussion associated with increased risk of developing ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, dementia and Parkinson's disease. Concussions upsets brain function and blood flow, potentially leading to long-term consequences.
Research published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that women smokers are four times more likely to have unruptured brain aneurysms than non-smokers. High blood pressure further increases the risk, with smokers being seven times more likely to harbour the condition.
A recent study suggests that home-made cloth face masks with at least two layers are more effective in reducing the dispersal of viral droplets from the nose and mouth associated with COVID-19. The researchers found that a double layer covering was better than a single layer in reducing droplet spread from coughing and sneezing.
A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis found diets high in plant protein are associated with a lower risk of death from any cause. Plant protein intake was also linked to reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality.
Restricting handgun sales to those aged 21 could save hundreds of young lives each year in the US, say researchers. State policies with a minimum age of 18 were linked to increased suicide rates among adolescents.
A randomized controlled trial found that nutritional supplementation for 6 months improved cognitive function and brain health in young children living in low-income countries. The supplement high in antioxidants and essential nutrients had a substantial beneficial effect on working memory and cerebral blood flow.
Research identified 21 evidence-based suggestions for preventing Alzheimer's disease, with a focus on vascular risk factors and lifestyle modifications. Targeting factors such as cognitive activity, high blood pressure, depression, diabetes, and stress may help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
A study published in the journal Gut found that people with periodontal disease may be at a higher risk of developing oesophageal and gastric cancer. The research examined data from over 98,000 women and men and found a 43-52% increased risk associated with periodontal disease.
Research published in BMJ Global Health suggests that oral herpes rates are falling among European children and young people. The prevalence of the virus is declining by 1% per year, with more than two-thirds of the population testing positive for HSV-1, but risks increasing sexually in adulthood.
The range of commercial baby foods has grown rapidly in recent years, with 84% more brands and double the products compared to 2013. However, researchers found that many products are still high in sugar, with sweet snack foods showing a significant increase in sugar content.
A study published by The BMJ found that implementing physical distancing measures, such as closing schools and workplaces, was associated with a 13% reduction in COVID-19 incidence. Earlier lockdown restrictions were also linked to a greater reduction in new cases.
A review of available evidence suggests that prediabetes is associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease in both the general population and patients with a history of heart disease. Screening and proper management of prediabetes may contribute to primary and secondary prevention of CVD.
Most dietary guidelines are not compatible with global health and environmental targets, finds an analysis published by The BMJ. Reforming national dietary guidelines could prevent deaths from chronic diseases and cut greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new study.
Research published in the journal Heart found that adults who experienced childhood maltreatment are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, with women being particularly vulnerable. The study analyzed data from 157,311 participants and found associations between all types of maltreatment and increased risk of CVD in both sexes.
Research found patients significantly overestimating CPR success and understating its negative impact. Clinicians should discuss CPR with patients to clarify success rates and risks before consent is given. The study highlighted the importance of informed decision-making in end-of-life care.
Two studies by European and US researchers found that higher consumption of these foods is associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake by 66 grams per day was linked to a 25% lower risk, while whole grain consumption was also significantly related to reduced disease risk.
A common inherited genetic variant has been identified as a frequent cause of deafness in adults. The RIPOR2 genetic variant is found in thousands of people at risk of developing hearing loss, making it an ideal target for gene therapy. Researchers estimate that up to 30,000 individuals in northern Europe may be affected.
A surge in domestic child abuse was reported by a specialist UK children's hospital during the coronavirus pandemic, with a 1493% increase in head injuries in one month. The hospital saw 10 cases of suspected abusive head trauma among infants, highlighting the complex interplay between abuse, mental health, and socioeconomic factors.
Patient and public involvement is crucial in COVID-19 policy-making, say experts. Decades of advocacy have shown that patient communities provide valuable information on the pandemic's effects, highlighting the need for a comprehensive public health response.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of COVID-19 antibody tests found significant methodological weaknesses, including high bias risk and limited study populations. The review suggests that existing point-of-care tests should not be used for COVID-19 diagnosis due to low sensitivity and specificity.
Academics urge government to introduce statutory levy to deliver reductions in gambling harms, citing industry influence and current lack of regulation. They also highlight the need for independent research funding to prevent gambling harms.
Adults who meet recommended weekly physical activity levels have a significantly lower risk of death. Engaging in sufficient muscle strengthening and aerobic activities provides greater survival benefits, with those fully meeting guidelines experiencing a 40% lower risk of death from any cause.
Children with diabetes, sepsis, and cancer were most commonly involved in 'delayed presentations' in emergency care during the pandemic lockdown. The survey found that nearly 60% of paediatricians reported seeing such cases, highlighting an urgent need for improved public health messaging.
A survey of British Halal meat-eaters found that many would consider switching to stunned meat if assured it complies with Islamic slaughter rules. The study's results suggest the UK may adopt a New Zealand-style model for halal meat production, which addresses animal welfare concerns and provides consumer reassurance.
A group of senior clinical academics and physicians express concern about the rapid roll-out of COVID-19 antibody testing in England, questioning its accuracy and relevance. They argue that large-scale testing is not clinically justified and risks wasteful use of resources.
Research suggests the UK's COVID-19 track and trace system should identify around 36 close contacts for every infected person and detect fewer than 1 in 6 untraced cases. However, it also predicts that a significant proportion of infected individuals may not be identifiable due to shorter encounters.
Research links inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to a doubled risk of developing dementia, with diagnoses occurring 7 years earlier. The study suggests that an imbalance in gut bacteria and chronic inflammation may contribute to cognitive decline.
A study of 2218 UK teens found that cyberbullying was linked to PTSD symptoms in both victims and perpetrators. Researchers suggest that asking about cyberbullying should become a part of children's mental health assessments.
A recent international study found a significant shift in pet feeding practices over the past decade, with a rise in raw and home-made foods. The research warns that these unconventional diets may pose health risks for animals, citing nutrient deficiencies and bacterial contamination.
Research finds that tobacco industry discounting leads to higher cigarette consumption, as smokers trade down to cheaper products to avoid price rises. This undermines the effectiveness of tax levies in reducing smoking prevalence and associated health issues.
Using regional anaesthesia instead of general anaesthesia for hip and knee replacement procedures can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By eliminating volatile halogenated agents, regional anaesthesia decreases atmospheric pollution, contributing to a potential solution to global warming.
The study found that siblings of infants who died suddenly and unexpectedly are at a 10-fold increased risk of suffering a similar death, with rates nearly 4 times higher than the general population. Modifiable risk factors for SUDI include smoking, mental health issues, unsafe sleeping, and child abuse/neglect.
A recent study estimates that over 237 million medication errors occur annually in England, resulting in significant financial and human costs. The majority of these errors are minor, but some can have serious consequences, such as hospital admissions and deaths.
A recent analysis found that women comprise only a third of all COVID-19 research authors, with even fewer holding senior author positions. Lockdown measures may have exacerbated these disparities due to competing caregiving duties. The study emphasizes the need for gender equality in science to combat the pandemic effectively.
A study from China found that frontline healthcare professionals who were adequately protected with personal protective equipment (PPE) did not contract COVID-19 or develop immunity. The researchers emphasize the need for adequate PPE and training for healthcare professionals working in high-exposure environments.
Experts argue the food industry is responsible for the severity of COVID-19 and the obesity pandemic. The industry's promotion of unhealthy foods has exacerbated the issue, particularly in low-income communities. Researchers call on governments to force reformulation of unhealthy foods and the industry to stop promoting them.
A national surveillance study found that more than half of pregnant women recently admitted to a UK hospital with COVID-19 infection were from black or other ethnic minority groups. Most women had good outcomes, but the high proportion of women from these groups warrants urgent investigation and explanation.
A small case series found that famotidine significantly improved symptoms of COVID-19 in patients with mild to moderate disease. The effects were felt within 24-48 hours and lasted up to 14 days. Further study is warranted to confirm the findings.