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.
Internal GlaxoSmithKline reports suggest a large discrepancy in adverse event reporting for Pandemrix compared to other GSK pandemic influenza vaccines. The BMJ investigation raises questions about the transparency of information surrounding the vaccine's safety, with significant implications for public health.
Experts warn that Public Health England's partnership with the drinks industry may undermine efforts to reduce alcohol consumption. A new campaign encouraging middle-aged people to have more alcohol-free days per week has been criticized for its modest target and lack of clarity.
A high-gluten diet during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of type 1 diabetes in children, according to a large observational study. The researchers found that the child's risk of developing type 1 diabetes increased proportionally with the mother's gluten intake during pregnancy.
A senior doctor calls for a ban on the sale of caffeinated energy drinks to children in England, citing concerns over obesity and mental health problems. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health supports these restrictions, highlighting the need for improved evidence to protect young people's health.
A study found associations between air pollution and dementia diagnoses in London patients, with higher NO2 and PM2.5 levels linked to a 40% increased risk of dementia. The study's findings suggest that traffic-related air pollution may contribute to neurodegeneration, particularly for Alzheimer's disease.
Most supermarket yogurts contain high levels of added sugars, exceeding EU guidelines for low-sugar products. Organic yogurts are particularly concerning due to the perceived health halo effect, leading consumers to underestimate their sugar content.
A study found that only 49.5% of clinical trials in Europe reported results as required by EU regulations, with commercial sponsors being more likely to comply than non-commercial ones. The researchers also discovered inconsistencies in the EU Clinical Trials Register and developed a website to track compliance.
Crowdfunding sites have seen a surge in UK cancer-related appeals, with £8m raised since 2012. Critics argue that these platforms are not adequately vetting appeals, potentially leading to patients being exploited by unproven treatments.
A randomised controlled trial found that high dose folic acid supplementation beyond the first trimester has no benefit for preventing pre-eclampsia. However, low dose folic acid supplements before and during early pregnancy are still strongly recommended to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida.
Researchers and regulators have conducted an expedited analysis of recalled blood pressure drugs, finding no association between use of potentially contaminated products and increased short-term cancer risk. However, a slightly increased risk of colorectal and uterine cancers was found in patients exposed to the impurity NDMA.
A study found a clear geographical split in opioid prescribing in England, with the North showing higher rates of chronic pain, anxiety, and poor general health. Opioid use was linked to intensity of pain, educational attainment, and general health, highlighting the need for alternative pain management strategies.
A recent study published in Open Heart reveals that UK heart failure patients are significantly more likely to die than their Japanese counterparts, with mortality rates being nearly twice as high. The disparity persists even after accounting for differences in patient severity and risk factors.
International experts advise against routine PSA screening for prostate cancer, citing small benefits and potential harm. However, clinicians should engage in shared decision-making with patients considering screening, especially those at higher risk of prostate cancer death.
A study by The BMJ reveals a small but significant pay gap between white and black minority ethnic (BME) hospital doctors in England. For consultant grades, the gap is larger, with white consultants earning an extra £4,644 per year compared to BME consultants. Further investigation into the reasons behind these differences is warranted.
A recent study found that statins do not reduce cardiovascular disease or death in healthy individuals aged 75 and older. However, in people with type 2 diabetes aged 75-84 years, statins were associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease and death. The protective effect declined after age 85.
Hospital doctors in England and Wales are taking early retirement, with a significant increase in NHS pension claims due to ill health or voluntary early retirement. The data shows a 22% rise in total doctor pensions claimed between 2008 and 2018, with more doctors opting for early retirement on health grounds.
A study of 736 pregnant women found that fish oil supplements led to a sustained increase in BMI, primarily due to proportional increases in lean and bone mass. By age 6, children whose mothers took fish oil supplements had higher total mass, lean mass, bone mineral content, and fat mass compared to those who received olive oil.
A large-scale study found that diclofenac, a common painkiller, is associated with an increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. The study suggests that diclofenac should not be available over the counter and when prescribed, should come with a warning about its potential risks.
Researchers found that genetic variation was the only factor associated with increased fracture risk, while vitamin D levels and calcium intake were not linked. Bone mineral density remained a key predictor of fracture risk.
A comprehensive analysis of the evidence found exposure to toxic metals like arsenic, lead, copper, and cadmium to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that these metals may be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, even at relatively low levels of exposure.
Deaths from drug overdose and suicide in the US have surpassed those from diabetes, with rates increasing by 80% between 2000 and 2016. Researchers urge national initiatives to tackle common factors behind 'self-injury', citing trauma, adversity, and mental health issues as key drivers.
A data linkage study of over 1 million Danes found that childhood experience of parental cancer is linked to poorer school grades and lower educational attainment. Children whose parents had a poor chance of surviving five years or died from their disease also experienced lower earnings power as adults.