A study found that one in four men aged 55-59 is at risk of needing further revision surgery, with serious complications surprisingly common in older people. The lifetime risk of revision surgery was highest during the first five years after surgery.
A high-fat diet is associated with an imbalance in gut bacteria and increased inflammation, which may lead to the development of metabolic disorders. In a randomized controlled trial, healthy young adults on different dietary groups found that those on a high-fat diet showed detrimental changes in long chain fatty acid metabolism.
A small study found that acupuncture reduced hot flushes, sweating, mood swings, sleep disturbances, skin and hair problems in women with moderate to severe menopausal symptoms. The treatment was associated with significant reductions after just six weeks.
A pooled analysis of 41 studies found that interval training reduced overall weight and percentage body fat, with a 28.5% greater reduction in weight compared to continuous moderate intensity exercise.
Research published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found that US older women are three times more likely to receive treatment for osteoporosis than men of similar age. Men aged 80+ were particularly under-screened and undertreated, with only 10-13% having a bone density scan and fewer than 1 in 10 treated with bisphosphonates.
A large UK study found that heart failure survival rates have only improved modestly since 2000, with significant disparities in outcomes across different socioeconomic groups. The research highlights the need for increased investment in heart failure services to address these inequalities.
Screening for irregular heartbeat has been proposed as a potential solution to reduce stroke risk, but experts disagree on its effectiveness. Mark Lown suggests that trained clinicians can accurately identify positive cases, while Patrick Moran raises concerns about the lack of evidence on screening's benefits.
A small study published in The BMJ found a link between enterovirus infections and later coeliac disease in genetically susceptible children. Enterovirus was significantly more frequent in stool samples collected before development of coeliac disease antibodies, suggesting it may be the trigger for the disease.
A panel of experts recommends against surgery for subacromial pain syndrome due to its ineffectiveness in improving pain and quality of life. Decompression surgery has been found to provide no benefit over placebo or other treatment options.
A study published by The BMJ found that global suicide deaths increased by 6.7% between 1990 and 2016, but the age-adjusted mortality rate decreased by almost a third worldwide over the same period. Men had higher mortality rates than women, with higher rates linked to social and economic deprivation.
A large pilot study confirms HPV screening is practical on a large scale and more sensitive than smear testing, detecting substantially more cervical lesions and cancer. The study's findings support extending screening intervals to at least five years without increasing the risk of potentially life-threatening disease.
The BMJ launches a 'give us a break' campaign calling for adequate rest breaks for doctors, addressing wellbeing and patient safety concerns. Nearly 36,000 junior doctors have reported working hour issues since 2016, highlighting the need for improved breaks.
A pooled analysis of clinical trials suggests mindfulness can lessen chronic pain severity and associated distress, improving physical functioning. The results indicate that both CBT and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques show promise in treating chronic pain.
A recent review found that daily calorie intake was higher in people eating breakfast, but skipping breakfast did not cause greater appetite or weight gain. The study questioned the popular recommendation that eating breakfast is key to weight control.
Experts debate the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in treating severe depression, with some arguing it has no long-term benefits compared to placebo and can cause brain damage. Others claim ECT is effective and safe for treatment-resistant depression, with most side effects resolving within weeks.
A randomized trial published in The BMJ found that medical scribes increase doctors' productivity and shorten patients' stays at emergency departments, with minimal risk to patient safety. Using scribes can save hospitals USD$26.15 per scribed hour, according to a cost-benefit analysis.
A no-deal Brexit is predicted to result in the greatest price hikes for imported fruits and vegetables, leading to a substantial drop in intake. This could contribute to an estimated 12,400 extra cardiovascular deaths over the next decade in England.
A systematic review of available evidence suggests that cycling and treadmill workstations are associated with greater short-term physiological changes compared to standing versions. Both types boosted heart rate, energy expenditure, and reduced blood pressure. However, treadmill versions interfered with keyboarding skills.
A study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal found that paramedics' hand hygiene compliance is remarkably low, with only 15% of instances adhering to recommended standards. The over-reliance on gloves indicates a tendency towards self-protection rather than patient protection.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that wearing a cast for three weeks is just as successful as the conventional six-week treatment period for treating Weber B-type ankle fractures. This discovery could lead to shorter and more convenient treatment strategies, reducing patient discomfort and costs.
A large US study found that eating fried foods, especially fried chicken and fish, increases the risk of death from any cause and heart-related death. Regular consumption was associated with a higher risk of 8% compared to non-fried food eaters. Reducing fried food intake may have a positive public health impact.
The debate centers on renaming ultra-low risk cancers to avoid unnecessary investigations and treatments. Experts recommend recalibrating thresholds for cancer diagnosis to categorize very low risk cancers as benign, reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes.
A pilot study found that specialist-led bereavement services led by senior doctors, nurses, and the quality and safety lead can help curb patient complaints and legal action in the wake of a difficult death. Most families who used the service had unanswered questions about clinical care and quality of care provided.
Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that body size-height and weight may have a greater impact on women's lifespan. Additionally, daily physical activity was associated with the best chance of reaching 90 for women, with an optimal threshold of around 60 minutes a day.
A study found that over two-thirds of patient organizations involved in assessing NHS treatments received funding from the manufacturer or a competitor, yet decision-makers were aware of less than a quarter of these interests. The researchers advocate for stronger policy on disclosure and greater transparency to reassure the public abo...
A recent study published in The BMJ found that nearly a quarter of antibiotic prescriptions for privately insured outpatients in the US were inappropriate. Inappropriate prescribing was more common among adults than children, with colds, chest infections, and coughs being the three most common reasons.
A study published in The BMJ found that people with the most common genetic disorder in northern Europe are associated with substantially higher levels of disease than previously thought. The faulty genes often lead to serious health problems, including haemochromatosis and liver disease.
Research finds certain housing types and tenures associated with higher CRP levels, indicating potential link between housing conditions and inflammation. Home owners with mortgages had lower CRP than renters in the private sector.
Research finds that nearly half of young Britons don't feel ready for their first sexual experience, regardless of age. The study highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing this milestone, taking into account factors such as partnership stability and communication skills.
A large study published in The BMJ found that HRT tablets are associated with a higher risk of rare but serious blood clots, particularly those containing equine oestrogen. No increased risk was found for skin patches, gels and creams. The study provides important information for women and their doctors to make informed treatment choices.
An investigation by Susan Greenhalgh reveals how Coca-Cola influenced China's health policies through institutional, financial, and personal links. The company's focus on physical fitness over dietary restrictions has aligned with official obesity policy.
A confidential online poll of 81 UK female surgeons found that over half have faced or witnessed discrimination in the workplace. The survey also revealed that Orthopaedics is seen as the most sexist surgical specialty, with many respondents citing poor work-life balance and inflexibility as major obstacles to a career in surgery.
A review of evidence reveals that as many as one in four women attending sexual and reproductive healthcare services report being coerced into controlling their own reproductive lives. Coercive control, including 'contraceptive sabotage,' undermines women's autonomy and has serious negative consequences.
A study of over 2 million CT scans found that radiation doses vary greatly due to how scanners are used by medical staff, not patient or machine differences. Setting consistent dose standards could minimize unnecessary radiation risks.
A comprehensive review of 56 studies found no statistically significant differences in health outcomes between those consuming non-sugar sweeteners and those not consuming them. Non-sugar sweeteners were associated with slightly less weight gain, but the evidence was low-quality.
The presence of alcohol on greeting cards reinforces a social attitude that excess drinking is acceptable and associated with celebration. This can influence views on drinking and contribute to increased consumption, particularly among young people.
Research estimates that bidi smoking in India results in INR 805.5 billion (US$12.4 billion) in direct and indirect costs, including healthcare expenses and lost productivity. The habit disproportionately affects men, particularly those from lower-income households who already struggle with poverty.
Many NHS trusts and health boards have been unable to accurately forecast how Brexit will affect crucial areas such as supply chains, medicines, and workforce. Only a quarter of those that responded were able to disclose their risk assessment related to Brexit, with many citing uncertainty about the government's guidance.
Research published in the Journal of Neurology & Psychiatry found that food allergies are associated with a higher rate of cumulative disease bouts and active disease in multiple sclerosis patients. The study analyzed data from 1349 adults and found that food allergy was linked to a 27% higher rate of disease flare-ups.
A new study published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine suggests that workplace resilience programs may not have a positive impact on employees' mental health and wellbeing. The researchers found no evidence that a specific program improved recruits' mental health and attitudes towards mental illness after training.
A study of 39,742 people found that exercise was just as effective as most blood pressure lowering drugs in reducing systolic blood pressure, especially for those with high blood pressure. Combining endurance and dynamic resistance training also showed promising results.
Studies across multiple countries find that popular restaurant chains serve high-calorie meals, failing to meet public health guidelines. Only a small minority of meals met the recommended calorie limit, highlighting the need for intervention targets such as portion reduction and mandatory labelling.
A US study reveals that physicians based on their status as mothers face unique forms of discrimination, including varied expectations of performance, limited career development opportunities, and lack of support before and after birth. The findings emphasize the need for structural changes to address pregnancy, parental leave, and chi...
A Swedish study found that the risk of heart attack peaks at around 10 pm on Christmas Eve, especially for older and sicker individuals due to heightened emotional stress. This risk is also higher during New Year's and Midsummer holidays, as well as Monday mornings.
Research reveals a strong association between workplace exposure to metals and pesticides and an increased risk of coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation. The study suggests that cumulative exposure may be more harmful, particularly for Hispanic/Latino workers who may face language barriers and limited resources.
The study found that animal-related injuries in the US result in over $5.9 billion in healthcare costs each year. The majority of these incidents are caused by smaller animals and insects, with dog bites, insect stings, and snake bites being among the most common causes.
The study found that at least 4% of doctors play golf, with male doctors and surgical specialists spending the most time on the course. Male doctors between 61-70 were most likely to play golf, while female doctors aged 31-35 were least likely.
Researchers tested a weight gain prevention intervention focusing on Christmas period, encouraging regular weighing and providing activity equivalent calorie information. The results showed that participants in the intervention group did not gain weight, while those in the control group did.
Researchers found patients discharged during the December holiday period had a higher risk of death or readmission, with a 16% risk within the first 7 days. Patients with higher baseline risks had lower holiday-related readmission and death rates.
A new study suggests that engaging in intellectually stimulating activities throughout life can improve mental ability and provide a higher starting point for decline. The research found no link between regular problem-solving activities and slowing down age-related mental decline.