A study finds examples of industry funding influencing healthcare professionals and medical education, potentially leading to overdiagnosis of cows' milk protein allergy. The NHS has increased spending on specialist formulas by nearly 700%, but data suggest no corresponding increase in infant cases.
Researchers found that self-sampling kits can improve cervical cancer detection among women not participating in screening programs. Studies showed that HPV tests based on PCR technology were just as accurate on self-samples as those taken by clinicians, but signal amplification-based tests were less effective.
A study of 32 hospital wards in the UK found a daily 3% rise in patient death risk associated with insufficiently staffed wards. Daily staffing levels for registered nurses averaged 4.75 hours, while those for nursing assistants averaged 2.99 hours.
A recent study found that gun violence has a disproportionately high impact on black Americans, with their lives shortened by nearly twice as much as those of white Americans. The study, which analyzed data from 2000 to 2016, also found that firearm suicides and assaults contributed to this disparity.
Children conceived via fertility treatment have up to 42% higher risk of asthma, while number of previous early miscarriages is also associated with increased risk. Research suggests that common factors underlying poorer fertility and recurrent miscarriages may influence asthma risk.
A recent study published in The BMJ reveals that the UK has higher death rates from respiratory illnesses, such as COPD and pneumonia, compared to other developed countries. Death rates for men have decreased over the past 30 years, but those for women have remained relatively static.
The study found a significant increase in test ordering among GPs between 2000/1 and 2015/16, with an average of five tests per year in 2015/16. This has major implications for general practitioners' workload and the NHS budget.
Half of ambulances targeted in Syrian conflict sustained serious damage, with 49% severely damaged or withdrawn from service. Cluster bombs and barrel bombs were frequently used by Syrian government and Russian forces.
A systematic review of 15 studies found no strong evidence to support the effectiveness and safety of diverting low-need patients from emergency departments. The strategy was also not effective in reducing subsequent use of emergency care services.
Fruit and naturally occurring fructose have no negative impact on blood glucose levels, while sweetened drinks may pose a greater risk. Researchers analyzed 155 studies to assess the effect of different food sources of fructose sugars on blood glucose levels.
A study of over 143,000 female nurses found that rotating night shift work and an unhealthy lifestyle significantly increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. The risk is higher than the sum of individual factors, suggesting an interaction between the two.
Researchers found that antidepressant prescriptions rose by 13.4% after the Brexit vote, potentially due to increased uncertainty among some populations. Strengthening mental health service provision during such periods is advised.
Teen energy, calmness, empathy, maturity, and intellectual curiosity may be protective against early death, while impulsivity may increase the risk. A large study found that these traits were associated with lower mortality rates over 48 years.
Researchers found a correlation between declining smoking rates among US teens and young adults and rising vaping prevalence. The study suggests that while some young people may try e-cigarettes and then smoke, the overall impact of vaping on smoking rates is likely small.
Inhalant abuse is a growing concern among teens, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with up to 125 deaths per year in the US. Deodorant spray contains butane, which can be toxic when inhaled.
A new study has found that footballers' health screens, including echocardiography and electrocardiography, do not always detect potentially critical heart problems. In fact, six players out of 595 tested negative for serious cardiovascular issues, highlighting the need for further screening and timely symptom reporting.
A study of older primary care patients found that hospital admission significantly increases the risk of inappropriate prescribing. The research highlights the need for better coordination of care to reduce medication-related harms.
Researchers found that SGLT2 inhibitors are associated with a two-fold increased risk of lower limb amputation and diabetic ketoacidosis compared to GLP1 receptor agonists. However, the use of these drugs was not linked to other serious adverse events.
Researchers found that low-carb diets resulted in significantly greater energy expenditure compared to high-carb diets. Participants on the low-carb diet burned an average of 209-278 kilocalories per day more than those on the high-carb diet, leading to improved weight loss maintenance.
A UK Biobank study found that certain risk factors have a greater impact on women's heart attack risk than men's. High blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes increased the risk of heart attack more in women than in men.
AI systems have a 'near unlimited capacity' for data processing and learning, potentially making diagnoses and surgical interventions more accurate. However, doctors will remain essential for holistic patient care, addressing individual preferences and social circumstances.
An investigation by The BMJ found that tens of thousands of UK patients with type 1 diabetes are being denied access to flash glucose monitoring devices due to a postcode lottery. Despite NHS guidance, only 3-5% of patients have access to the devices, compared to 20-25% recommended by clinical commissioning groups.
Research finds distinct temporal and geographical patterns in knife crime among young people, with children most at risk of stab injuries on the way home from school. The study reveals that stabbings peak between 1600-1800 hours, accounting for over one-fifth of all injuries, and nearly half of injuries occur within 1-5 km of home.
The prevalence of female genital mutilation/cutting among girls up to 14 years old has decreased in most African regions over the past three decades. However, the practice remains pervasive in Western Asia-Iraq and Yemen.
A twin study suggests that summer birth, hours spent playing computer games, and lower educational attainment are associated with a higher risk of developing myopia in childhood. Fertility treatment appears to afford protection against this condition, possibly due to smaller birth size and developmental delay.
Research found that infants born to fathers over 45 have a higher risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and healthcare support needs. The study highlights the need for men to be included in preconception care.
A plant-based diet has been shown to improve psychological wellbeing, reduce risk factors for type 2 diabetes, and slow nerve damage. Participants who followed a vegan diet lost nearly twice as much weight and had lower blood glucose levels compared to those on other diets.
A small study found that rose geranium oil spray in sesame oil base helped reduce the severity of nasal vestibulitis symptoms, which are common side effects of chemotherapy. The oil was used by 20 women on chemotherapy, with most reporting moderate to substantial benefits.
A large study of over 333,000 infants found that exposure to antibiotics and acid suppressants in early childhood may increase the risk of obesity by age 3. The research suggests an association between these drugs and altered gut microbiomes linked to weight gain.
A study found that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) drugs increase the risk of lung cancer by 14% compared to angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). The risk is highest among patients using ACEIs for over five years, particularly those who use them for more than 10 years.
A study published in The BMJ found that a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of stroke, regardless of genetic profile. Lifestyle factors such as not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight were associated with a lower risk of stroke.
A panel of international experts recommends stopping oxygen therapy in patients with normal oxygen levels above 96% and not starting it for certain conditions. The guidelines aim to minimize harm from excessive oxygen use, which increases mortality.
A US study found that higher blood levels of omega 3 fatty acids from seafood are associated with a lower risk of unhealthy ageing, defined as survival free of major chronic diseases and without mental or physical dysfunction. Participants who consumed more seafood-derived EPA had a 24% lower risk of unhealthy ageing.
A large study published in The BMJ found that pre-eclampsia is associated with an increased risk of later dementia, particularly vascular dementia. Women with a history of pre-eclampsia were more than three times as likely to develop vascular dementia compared to those without the condition.
Experts warn that cardboard baby boxes are being promoted without supporting evidence, posing risks to infant safety. The boxes may not meet safety regulations, have potential design flaws, and are not suitable for all age groups.
A recent study published in the Emergency Medicine Journal found that simply eyeballing patients may be more effective than using a formal structured assessment to prioritize those who are the sickest. The researchers compared the triage decisions made by experienced nurses and phlebotomists with medical students, finding that basic cl...
International study finds full bans on corporal punishment at home and school reduce physical fighting among young people by 42-69%. Partial bans show little impact, while no bans are associated with higher rates of youth violence.
Experts advise against giving decongestants to children under 6 due to lack of evidence on their effectiveness. Instead, doctors should reassure patients that symptoms are self-limiting and will pass in a few days.
A trial published by The BMJ found that employees who used sit-stand workstations reduced their sitting time by more than an hour a day over 12 months, with improvements in job performance, psychological health, and daily anxiety. The results suggest that displacing sitting with standing may have positive effects on work-related outcomes.
Research suggests that dogs from specific breeds, such as gun dogs and terriers, may be more at risk of contracting Alabama Rot in woodland and dry heathland areas. The studies found associations between certain breeds and geographical locations with high risks of the disease.
A new study published in The BMJ suggests that genetics play a significantly larger role in the development of high serum urate levels than diet. Despite long-held assumptions about diet's impact on gout, researchers found that only a small percentage of variation in urate levels could be explained by food choices.
A BMJ investigation reveals how vaginal mesh implant manufacturers aggressively marketed their products, with regulators approving them on flimsy evidence. The study also exposes financial ties between clinicians and industry, compromising the integrity of clinical practice.
High levels of air pollutants, especially PM2.5, may be associated with an increased risk of developing mouth cancer, according to the first study of its kind. The study found that exposure to high levels of PM2.5 was linked to a 43% heightened risk of a mouth cancer diagnosis.
A new study suggests that planned intermittent fasting can help reverse type 2 diabetes by cutting out the need for insulin treatment and controlling blood glucose levels. Three men with type 2 diabetes were able to stop taking insulin after following a fasting regimen for around 10 months.
Most industry-funded clinical trials show funder involvement in design, conduct, and reporting, raising questions about academic freedom and independence. Only a few trials were found to be independent, highlighting the need for accurate reporting of contributorship to ensure patient confidence in trial results.
Researchers tracked over 12,000 participants to estimate the lifetime risk of dementia, Parkinson's disease, and stroke. Preventive strategies could delay onset and reduce lifetime risk by 20-50% in theory, particularly for those aged 85+.
Research suggests that formal nursery care is associated with better psychological development, including lower emotional problems and better social skills. Children who attended nurseries for a year or more had even lower odds of emotional issues, difficulties making friends, and poor social skills.
A large study published by The BMJ found that newer combined oral contraceptives are associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer in young women. The positive effect strengthens with longer periods of use and persists for several years after stopping, providing reassurance for women.
Experts warn that Brexit will affect the UK's ability to tackle the illicit drugs trade due to exclusion from the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA). The EMCDDA plays a crucial role in surveillance, data exchange, and policy-making, posing substantial risks to public health and safety.
Playing golf regularly is associated with increased longevity and reduced risk of heart disease, as well as improved mental health for those with disabilities. To maximize these benefits, golfers should aim to play for 150 minutes a week and prioritize sun protection and injury prevention.