A large US study found that children born to mothers who used buprenorphine for opioid addiction during pregnancy did not have a greater risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ADHD and autism. Buprenorphine was associated with a slightly lower risk of developmental disorders compared to methadone.
Research suggests that exercising at a time that matches an individual's natural chronotype (morning or evening alertness) can lower cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that chronotype-aligned exercise improved blood pressure, fasting glucose, cholesterol levels, and sleep quality more effectively than mismatched timing.
The Journal of Medical Genetics has retracted most of a 2019 guest-edited special issue due to issues with objective peer review and editorial assessment in 7 of the 8 papers. The remaining paper was found to be sound, according to an external review by a subject specialist.
A recent study found that 5 popular chatbots provided inaccurate and incomplete medical information, with half of the answers being 'somewhat' or 'highly' problematic. The researchers urge for public education and oversight to avoid amplifying misinformation.
Two new TB vaccines, VPM1002 and Immuvac, demonstrate safety and effectiveness in preventing progression to active TB in latent infection, particularly in children. However, they do not offer general protection against all forms of TB or prevent weight-related mortality.
A study estimates that quitting tobacco could give a major economic uplift to over 20 million households in India, with the greatest impact felt in rural areas and among the poorest households. The analysis suggests that these households would receive a significant boost in income, potentially moving up one or two economic classes.
Shisha tobacco has almost 1,000 cafes in the UK, popular among young people and ethnic minority groups. Shisha is considered 'every bit as bad for you as smoking cigarettes', with unique design features increasing toxin delivery.
Research suggests that Kinesio taping (KT tape) may reduce pain intensity in the immediate and short term, but evidence for long-term benefits and its use in various musculoskeletal conditions is inconclusive. The majority of systematic reviews found inconsistent findings, and potential skin irritation remains a concern.
Researchers have identified a link between genetic variants involved in innate immunity and earlier breast cancer onset in BRCA1 carriers. The study found that mutations in genes involved in natural killer cell activation were strongly associated with an increased risk, suggesting the need for more refined risk prediction models.
Research suggests that individuals with more siblings may experience lower rates of mental health medication purchases after a parental death, particularly among women. The study analyzed data from Finland and found that those with fewer siblings were more likely to purchase psychotropic medications in the year before and after their m...
Experts warn that US policy changes pose a grave threat to global health, risking multiple international infectious disease outbreaks. The authors argue that the recent US decisions meet the criteria for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under International Health Regulations (IHRs).
A study of 10,978 participants found that cooking at home at least once a week is associated with a lower risk of dementia. Novice cooks with few culinary skills saw a 70% reduction in risk, while skilled cooks still benefited from regular meal prep
A data analysis found that maternal deaths increased by 11% in US aid-dependent countries during Republican administrations, eroding a fifth of the global decline in maternal deaths since 1985. The policy, which restricts family planning services, is associated with a 10.5% increase in maternal deaths.
A clinical decision support system using AI-assisted imaging analysis and evidence-based treatment recommendations showed better quality care and long-term outcomes for patients with acute ischemic stroke. The tool reduced new vascular events by 26% at three months and maintained the reduction at 12 months.
Research reveals associations between antiseizure drugs and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, with valproate and zonisamide linked to increased risks. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring of new antiseizure drugs and further evaluation of their safety during pregnancy.
The global cosmetic procedure market is projected to exceed $180bn by 2033, with invasive procedures becoming increasingly invasive and harms on the rise. Experts call for consistent regulation, public education, and advertising controls to protect patients and reduce cosmetic tourism.
Analysis of unintended side effect reports reveals that Wegovy carries the highest risk of 'eye stroke' and sudden sight loss among semaglutide drugs, with odds nearly 5 times higher than Ozempic. The risk is particularly pronounced in men, with a signal nearly 3 times higher than in women.
Research found that Roseburia inulinivorans is positively associated with muscle mass and strength in both young and older adults. The study suggests that R inulinivorans may play a causal role in muscle strength, with notable increases in forelimb grip strength and larger muscle fibre size in mice treated with the bacteria.
A large population study found that female relatives' suicidal intentions may influence women's suicide risk, with shared familial environment and social factors having a key role. The study also found that genetic factors only partly explain the observed sex difference in suicidal behaviors.
A large US study published in The BMJ found that GLP-1 receptor agonists used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity may also help lower the risk of addiction to various substances. The study associated GLP-1 receptor agonists with reduced risks of adverse outcomes such as overdoses and drug-related emergency department visits and deaths...
In England, over a third of councils face industry legal threats for clean air campaigns; the stove industry lobbied local authorities to ignore public health risks. Key findings include wood burning's significant contribution to fine particle air pollution and its link to various health conditions.
Research found that pollen exposure is negatively correlated with matriculation exam scores, particularly in subjects requiring accuracy and concentration. Pollen levels above a certain threshold led to a U-shaped curve drop in exam scores.
A 15-year retrospective study found that physical assault and excessive MDMA use are primary causes of nightclub deaths in the UK. The study reveals a significant number of young women are at higher risk of dying from drug-related causes.
A large observational study found that sleeping 7 hours and 18 minutes per night may help prevent insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. However, weekend catch-up sleep can increase the risk of impaired glucose metabolism in those who sleep beyond this threshold every night.
Only 6 of every 10 finalised post-authorisation studies uploaded protocols and less than 7% had results available for EMA's database. This lack of transparency hinders scientific review and research credibility.
A nationwide study in Sweden found that HPV vaccination significantly reduces the risk of invasive cervical cancer, with sustained protection observed for 13-15 years after vaccination. The study also showed a population-level decline in cervical cancer cases over time.
Research published in the journal Gut found that pre-pregnancy parental overweight and obesity are independently associated with increased odds of developing metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children by age 24. Cumulative excess weight in childhood significantly influences this risk, with children who...
A study suggests that obstructive sleep apnea affects around 1 in 5 adults in both countries, resulting in significant annual productivity loss. The estimated total annual productivity loss in the USA could be as high as US$180.2 billion, with an annual productivity loss of $3727 for each worker affected.
Despite efforts by the government to increase GP numbers, England is facing a severe doctor drought, with patient demand far outstripping GP capacity. The British Medical Association and Royal College of GPs warn of a 'troubling picture' of general practice under growing strain.
A large Danish study found that menopausal hormone therapy is not associated with an increased risk of death in women with moderate to severe symptoms and no contraindications. The study also showed a significant survival benefit for women who had undergone bilateral oophorectomy after using hormone therapy.
A systematic review suggests that exercise has small, short-lived effects on knee osteoarthritis pain compared to placebo or no treatment. Moderate certainty evidence indicates negligible effects for hip and small effects for hand osteoarthritis. The findings question the universal promotion of exercise as a first-line treatment.
A health economic analysis found that school restrictive smartphone policies may reduce staff costs by £94 per pupil, but have minimal impact on pupils' mental wellbeing and quality of life. The study also revealed that school staff spend a significant amount of time administering smartphone policies.
Exercise has a medium-sized effect on depression symptoms and a small to medium-sized effect on anxiety symptoms, with aerobic formats being the most effective for relieving depression. All forms of exercise are as good as or better than medication or talking therapies for easing symptoms, regardless of age or sex.
A study from Sweden found autism rates among male and female individuals to be comparable, with a clear catch-up effect in females during adolescence. This challenges the long-held assumption that autism predominantly affects males.
A study from China finds that testing menstrual blood for human papillomavirus (HPV) can detect cervical cancer with high accuracy, comparable to clinician-collected samples. The non-invasive method allows women to collect samples at home, enhancing feasibility for large-scale implementation.
A pooled data analysis of 52 studies involving 6485 people found that transgender women have similar upper and lower body strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscle mass compared to cisgender women. However, their physical fitness is comparable despite greater muscle mass 1-3 years after hormone therapy.
Despite improvements in UK air ambulance service availability since 2009, regional gaps remain. The provision of advanced interventions like blood transfusion varies, while 24/7 doctor-based teams are not consistently available across the UK.
US research reveals patients with duplicate medical records are 5 times more likely to die after admission and 3 times more likely to require intensive care. Researchers call for improvements in data integrity and health information management to boost patient safety.
A study analyzing 3225 trauma patients in South East England found that air ambulance pre-hospital care significantly improved survival rates, with 2125 patients exceeding 30-day survival. Those most likely to benefit were severely injured patients with moderate probability of survival, who unexpectedly survived for 30 days.
Research reveals leading US tobacco brands violate Instagram, FTC, and FDA marketing policies to restrict young people's access. Lax/missing age verification, disclosure on brand-influencer relationships, and health warnings are common violations.
Researchers found that sleeping without pillows can lower harmful high internal eye pressure in people with glaucoma. The study suggests that stacking pillows alter neck position, which compresses the jugular vein and prevents natural drainage of aqueous humor.
Researchers found that non-monetary honor-based incentives increased blood donation counts by 3.5% and 7.7% over time, with no significant effect on donor safety. The model, which grants frequent donors privileges such as free consultations, may be a sustainable strategy for addressing potential blood shortages.
A clinical trial found that natural ovulation before frozen embryo transfer is as effective as hormone treatment in achieving a healthy baby by IVF, with a lower risk of maternal complications. The study involved 4,376 ovulatory women and showed similar outcomes for birth weight and newborn complications.
Researchers found no association between long term use of proton pump inhibitors and increased risk of stomach cancer. The study, which analyzed data from five Nordic countries over 26 years, suggests that patients needing long term proton pump inhibitor therapy may not need to worry about a higher risk of stomach cancer.
A modelling study suggests that preventing high blood glucose from turning into type 2 diabetes with lifestyle changes could result in a 67% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Well-controlled type 2 diabetes management could cut CO2 emissions by 21%, adding nearly 2 extra years of life.
Research published in BMJ Medicine found that a mix of different types of physical activity may be best for prolonging the lifespan. Variety rather than total quantity alone is linked to a lower risk of death, with some activities associated with a 15% lower risk of death from all causes.
Glaucoma cases in the UK are already higher than expected and will continue to rise due to an aging population and growing ethnic diversity. By 2060, an estimated 1.6 million people will live with glaucoma, with a 60% increase from 2025 figures.
A large study found that home fingertip oxygen monitors give higher readings for patients with darker skin tones, which can lead to missed diagnoses and delayed medical attention. The researchers suggest interpreting SpO2 readings in context and developing guidance to address these limitations.
A clinical trial from Finland found that wearing a cast for six weeks is comparable to surgery for healing unstable ankle fractures, with fewer treatment-related harms. The study's results support the use of conservative treatment approaches to stabilize the ankle mortise and promote fracture union.
Nolo drinks have potential to improve public health, especially for heavier drinkers and those in lower socioeconomic groups. However, experts warn of risks such as marketing tactics and encroachment on alcohol-free spaces, calling for a precautionary approach to balance benefits and harms.