A degenerative eye condition called AMD is projected to affect 77 million Europeans by 2050, with the number of existing cases rising by 15% and new cases increasing by 75%. The estimated projections show that one in four older adults will have AMD, ranging from under 1 in 10 for those younger than 65 to over 27% of those over 75.
A pooled analysis of 14 studies involving over 232,000 people found that any amount of running significantly lowers the risk of death from all causes. Even small doses of running, such as once weekly or less than 50 minutes, are associated with significant health and longevity benefits.
Research published in Heart journal reveals that cardiac patients who feel lonely are nearly three times as likely to be anxious and depressed, report a significantly lower quality of life, and have poorer physical health after a year. Lonely women are particularly at risk of dying from any cause within this timeframe.
Labelling menus with calorie content led to a small immediate decrease in average calories purchased, but this reduction was followed by a gradual weekly increase over the next year. The study suggests that calorie labelling alone may not be enough to make sustainable reductions in calorie intake in fast food restaurants.
A pooled analysis of data from 30 studies found that anti-inflammatory agents were 52% more effective in reducing symptom severity and 79% more effective in eliminating symptoms than placebo. NSAIDs, omega 3 fatty acids, statins, and minocyclines were among the most effective agents.
Research finds that UK vets need special training to report suspected animal abuse, boosting their confidence and skills in overcoming client confidentiality and earning loss fears. The study suggests that perceived self-efficacy is a key factor in reporting animal abuse.
Filters are ineffective and contribute to global plastic pollution, with the largest part being non-biodegradable cellulose acetate. Experts recommend banning filtered cigarettes to reduce waste and strengthen ties between environment and health communities.
A large Swedish study found stress-related disorders associated with a higher risk of life-threatening infections like meningitis and sepsis. Younger age at diagnosis and co-occurring psychiatric conditions further increased the risk, while SSRI antidepressant use appeared protective.
The incidence rate of anorexia nervosa among 8-12 year olds in the UK and Ireland has increased significantly, with a doubling of the previous estimate. The new rate is around 3.2/100,000, according to research published in BMJ Open.
Heavier social media use is associated with poorer sleep patterns among UK teens. Very high users are 70% more likely to fall asleep after 11 pm on school days compared to average users.
The UK veterinary profession is critically low and unprepared for a 'No Deal' Brexit, with concerns over workforce shortages, animal certification, and research. The government's lack of preparedness has been rated as red by Vet Record.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that transferring extremely premature babies from lower to higher level neonatal care units increases the risk of severe brain injury. Keeping these infants at lower level units after birth also results in a higher risk of death, compared to birth in a tertiary facility.
Direct-to-consumer genetic tests may report false positive and false negative results, and interpretation is complex and context-dependent. Experts advise doctors to put results in context for patients, discussing possible sources of error and lifestyle changes.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that weight gain from young adulthood to middle age increases the risk of premature death. Maintaining a normal weight throughout adulthood is crucial for reducing this risk, especially preventing weight gain during early adulthood.
For most healthy individuals, statin use is uncertain and its benefits are small, while potential harms exist. The research suggests that lower-risk groups may not reach acceptable levels of risk reduction to justify taking daily statins.
A clinical trial found that testosterone significantly increases young women's running capacity, with a notable impact on anaerobic performance and lean body mass. The study suggests that allowing female athletes with high testosterone levels to compete without hormone reduction could be fair.
Experts argue that improving access to effective contraception is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the environmental crisis. The authors suggest that by slowing population growth through increased use of contraception, we can reduce emissions globally by an estimated 40% or more.
A study analyzing prescribing data from over 8,000 English general practitioners reveals substantial variation in the adoption of new prescribing guidance, with some practices changing much later than others. This variation can lead to avoidable health service costs and poorer patient care.
Breastfeeding for six months can save an estimated 95-153 kg CO2 equivalent per baby compared to formula feeding. The food industry's contribution to greenhouse gases is significant, with dairy and meat production being major contributors.
Experts advise against routine bowel cancer testing for everyone aged 50-79 due to small benefits and potential harms. However, men and women with a risk of 3% or more in the next 15 years should consider screening.
A study found that lop-eared rabbits are more prone to ear canal narrowing, ear infections, tooth overgrowth, and dental problems, potentially leading to pain and discomfort. The research calls into question the ethics of breeding and buying these popular pet rabbits.
A middle-aged man experienced a brief episode of acute psychosis after the 2016 Brexit Referendum, highlighting the potential impact of political events on mental health. The case highlights the importance of identifying early warning signs and providing prompt treatment to ensure quick recovery.
Research published in BMJ Open found a significant association between antidepressant use during pregnancy and an increased risk of gestational diabetes. Venlafaxine and amitriptyline were linked to the greatest risks, with long-term use associated with a 29% heightened risk.
A study published in The BMJ found that Scotland's minimum unit pricing policy has reduced alcohol purchases and consumption by households. The policy has been successful in targeting heavier drinkers and lower-income groups, with price increases greatest among those buying the most alcohol.
Men who became fathers through assisted reproduction techniques have a higher risk of prostate cancer and early onset prostate cancer compared to those who conceived naturally. Early screening and long-term monitoring are advised for these men.
Researchers analyzed DNA samples from over 17,000 individuals and found that people with specific chromosomal changes tended to live in more deprived areas. The study suggests that these genetic changes may have cumulative effects on socioeconomic status even in the absence of a medical diagnosis.
Increasing nut consumption by half a serving a day may help stave off gradual weight gain, according to researchers. Substituting unhealthy foods with nuts was associated with lower risk of obesity and weight gain.
Doctors argue that UK TV advertising regulations on unhealthy kids' foods were weakened due to industry influence. A thematic analysis of public consultations found that commercial interests often took precedence over public health concerns.
A recent study found that around half of cancer drug trials approved in Europe between 2014 and 2016 were at high risk of bias, indicating potential exaggeration of treatment effects. The findings highlight the need for improved trial design and reporting to ensure real benefits for patients.
A study of 3,462 residents in Lausanne, Switzerland found that taking a weekly daytime nap reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke by 48%. The frequency, not just the duration, of naps is what matters, researchers suggest. This new insight may help explain previous conflicting findings on the health benefits of napping.
A small qualitative study found female vets frequently face outright sex discrimination, with implications for practice sustainability and burnout rates. Women are often assumed to be on the 'mommy track', denied complex cases, and overlooked for promotion.
The US political sanctions on Iran are curtailing global scientific progress by denying Iranian scientists publishing opportunities, access to supplies, and attending meetings. This is hindering international collaboration and nations' ability to respond to health crises and narrow inequalities.
A study published in The BMJ suggests that taxing high sugar snacks may be more effective in reducing obesity levels than increasing the price of sugar sweetened drinks. Increasing the price of biscuits, cakes, and sweets by 20% could lead to an average weight loss of 1.3 kg over one year.
A UK study found that vegetarians and pescetarians have a lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) than meat eaters, but a higher risk of stroke. This may be due to low blood levels of total cholesterol or certain vitamins. The study included 48,188 participants over 18 years.
A study of US eScooter injuries found that most injured riders are men aged 20-40, with high rates of drug and alcohol use, and lack of helmet wear. The injury toll is expected to rise as eScooter popularity increases.
Researchers analyzed 83 randomized controlled trials involving 121,070 people with and without diabetes. They found that increasing long-chain omega-3 fats had little or no effect on likelihood of diabetes diagnosis or glucose metabolism. In contrast, higher doses of long-chain omega-3 may have negative effects on diabetes risk.
Some NHS trusts are introducing local schemes to help plan for increased demand over the winter due to pension tax charges. These schemes allow doctors to opt out of the NHS scheme and receive employer contributions in cash, reducing their tax burden.
A study published in The BMJ found that China's universal two-child policy resulted in an additional 5.4 million births, with a significant increase in births to older mothers and multiparous mothers. However, the policy's impact on premature births was not significantly increased.
A large study published in The BMJ found that even light physical activity reduces the risk of early death, with more intense activity having a greater impact. The study analyzed data from over 36,000 adults and found that spending 9.5 hours or more sedentary per day increases the risk of death.
Research published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found a significant association between AMD and high levels of ambient NO2 and CO. The study, which analyzed data from 1998 to 2010, showed that long-term exposure to pollutants was associated with an almost doubling in risk among those aged 50 and older.
Research published in Gut journal suggests a link between antibiotic use and increased risk of bowel cancer, particularly for cancers of the proximal colon. Conversely, rectal cancer risk was found to be lower among those prescribed antibiotics, possibly due to differences in gut microbiome activity.
A survey of bereaved Danish parents suggests that doctors often inform them of their child's terminal illness too late, with over four in ten saying they were told just hours before death. The study highlights the need for improved education and training for healthcare professionals on how to break bad news to families.
A Dutch survey of swingers found that nearly half use recreational drugs during sex to prolong and intensify the experience. Women are more likely to use drugs than straight or bisexual men, but this practice increases the risk of unprotected sex.
A 72-year-old man experienced considerable pain, bleeding, and swallowing difficulties after his dentures got stuck in his throat during surgery. Despite multiple hospital visits and surgeries, he eventually recovered without further complications. The case highlights the importance of removing false teeth before general anesthetic.
A recent survey found that half of key hospital doctors in the UK are ill-prepared to respond to major incidents. The study, published in Emergency Medicine Journal, suggests that the situation hasn't improved since 2006, with many doctors lacking knowledge of their organization's major incident plans.
A study found that major surgery is associated with a small long-term decline in cognitive functioning, equivalent to less than five months of natural brain ageing. The odds of substantial cognitive decline also increase after surgery, approximately doubling.
A new study found that good cardiovascular health at age 50 is associated with a lower risk of dementia later in life. Researchers used the Life Simple 7 cardiovascular health score as a tool for preventing dementia, and their findings support public health policies to improve midlife cardiovascular health.
A study of outpatient appointments in India found that younger and older women, as well as those living far from major hospitals, were more likely to miss out on healthcare. The researchers estimated that nearly half of female outpatient visits were 'missing' due to sex-based discrimination.
A proof of concept study uses an 'obesity simulation suit' to teach medical students about obesity and uncover their prejudices. The results show that nearly two-thirds of medical students found the suit realistic, but also harbored more negative attitudes towards obesity than teachers or patients.
A review of clinical trials published in top psychology and psychiatry journals found that more than half of the abstracts contained 'spin' - exaggerating the clinical significance of a particular treatment without statistics to back it up. This practice raises concerns about its impact on doctors' treatment decisions.