Two experts argue over whether doctors should boycott working in Australia's immigration detention centers, with one advocating for a firm stance against supporting torture and the other suggesting that physicians should focus on providing adequate care while promoting redress through other means.
A study published in The BMJ found that refugees have a substantially higher risk of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia. Refugees were up to 3.6 times more likely to develop psychosis than the Swedish-born population, with incidence rates of 1264 per million.
A study published in The BMJ found that communicating genetic disease risk estimates has no significant effect on behavior change, including smoking cessation and physical activity. Despite high interest in personalized medicine, the research suggests that genetic testing may not motivate people to adopt healthier behaviors.
Experts warn that the UK government's new anti-lobbying clause could limit the ability of researchers funded by taxpayer money to influence policy and improve public health. The clause prioritizes private sector views over public health goals, potentially jeopardizing efforts to promote evidence-based decision-making.
A global review of 58 studies involving over 77,000 E. coli samples found a high prevalence of antibiotic resistance in children's urinary tract infections, particularly in non-OECD countries. Previous antibiotic use increased the risk of resistance for up to six months after treatment.
Researchers found that difficult patients distract doctors from processing clinical information correctly, leading to higher misdiagnosis rates. The study showed that even with more time spent on diagnosis, doctors were still more likely to misdiagnose difficult patients than neutral ones.
BMJ Best Practice features a continuing medical education (CME/CPD) tracking tool, allowing doctors to earn credits while using the platform as part of their working day. The new tool collates time spent learning and enables users to reflect on their impact on practice, supporting appraisal and revalidation.
The Royal College of General Practitioners has accredited BMJ Best Practice, a healthcare knowledge provider that offers high-quality clinical decision support to GPs. The tool features continuing professional development tracking and accreditation, allowing GPs to earn credits while using it in their working day.
Ultra-processed foods contribute nearly 90% of all dietary added sugar intake, making up over half of the US calorie consumption. Research found a strong linear association between ultra-processed food intake and overall added sugar consumption.
Research reveals widespread use of meldonium among elite athletes, with up to 490 athletes taking the substance during the Baku 2015 European Games. The study highlights that meldonium was detected in athletes competing in 15 out of 21 sports and that its use was significantly underreported.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 37 intervention trials found no consistent evidence that partially or extensively hydrolysed milk formula prevents allergic or autoimmune diseases in infants. Current guidelines recommending these formulas may be misguided, experts say.
A study by the BMJ found that shorter height and higher BMI are associated with lower levels of education, job status, and income, particularly among men and women. The research suggests that taller stature is linked to higher social position, while being overweight or short can lead to socioeconomic disadvantages.
Researchers report unusual rugby injuries, including acetabular fractures and hip dislocations in young players. A man also developed distorted vision after inhaling poppers for the first time. Additionally, a patient developed a rare liver abscess after routine dental cleaning.
A study of 300 women with early stage breast cancer found that a high white blood cell ratio is associated with an increased risk of disease recurrence. Women with low NLR fared better at subsequent check-ups, with higher survival rates compared to those with high NLR.
Research published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry found that high daily coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of multiple sclerosis. The study, based on data from two population studies, suggests that caffeine's neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties may play a role in this link.
A BMJ investigation reveals Jeremy Hunt's public use of seven-day NHS data without clear attribution, potentially breaching the ministerial code. The authors' findings were shared with colleagues before publication, but not in a way that influenced the editorial process.
A study of 2026 individuals with a first episode of psychosis found that cannabis use was associated with a 50% increased risk of hospital admissions, including compulsory detention. Cannabis use was also linked to higher numbers of antipsychotic prescriptions, suggesting treatment failure.
Reported dog attacks on guide dogs in the UK rose from an average of three per month in 2010 to eleven attacks per month in 2015. Guide Dogs' stock were injured in 43% of attacks, with veterinary costs estimated at £34,514.30.
Researchers are being called upon to share data from a landmark trial that raised concerns about the use of starch solutions in critically ill patients. The CHEST trial, published in 2012, led to regulators suspending use of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) products worldwide.
Researchers have found a possible association between radiotherapy for prostate cancer and an increased risk of developing secondary cancers of the bladder, colorectal tract, and rectum. However, the absolute rates of these secondary cancers remain low compared to other treatment complications.
Research identifies distinct geographical patterns of fatal unintentional firearm injuries in seven Appalachian states with lax child access laws. Five Western coastal states show high rates of 'legal intervention' deaths due to police actions or officer fatalities.
Research published in Injury Prevention found that paid family leave in California is associated with a lower rate of children's admission for head injury, including cases of deliberate inflicted trauma. The study suggests that this policy may have positive effects on reducing childhood abuse admissions.
Newborns may develop severe infections from exposure to vaginal bacteria, experts warn. Encouraging breast feeding and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics may be more important than vaginal seeding for infant health.
Research published in Archives of Disease in Childhood links parental anxiety and depression during pregnancy and preschool period to increased risk of fussy eating behavior in children. Mothers' antenatal symptoms were found to predict their child's fussy eating behavior at age 4, while fathers' pre-school period anxiety was linked to...
Gynaecologists propose permitting small surgical 'nicks' or minimalist procedures that change the appearance of young women's external genitalia without harming them. This compromise approach aims to uphold cultural traditions while safeguarding girls' and women's health and wellbeing. However, some experts disagree, arguing that such ...
A doctor is calling for the removal of provisions that can imprison doctors who prioritize patient care over government instructions. The move follows a high-profile case where paediatricians refused to discharge a baby facing deportation, highlighting the 'impossible ethical and legal position' faced by doctors in Australia.
A recent study found that only 29% of completed clinical trials led by investigators at major US academic centers were published within two years of completion, highlighting the need for improved timely reporting and publication. The study also revealed marked variation in rates of dissemination across institutions, with no center publ...
The study analyzed 10-year survival rates among European populations aged 75-84 to see if they reached 85-94 years of age. Geographical variations in old age survival rates were found, with areas like Madrid and Salamanca in Spain showing high survival rates, while Glasgow and Manchester in the UK showed low survival rates.
Research suggests that joining social groups after retirement can reduce the risk of death and improve quality of life, with effects comparable to those of regular exercise. The study found that maintaining social connections is crucial for retirees, emphasizing the importance of social planning in retirement planning.
A personalized approach to acupuncture has been shown to decrease pain levels and improve functional capacity in individuals with chronic pain, known as fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and depression, affecting up to one in twenty people.
The BMJ and UCSF have developed an e-learning program called Research to Publication, which offers a comprehensive range of 48 online modules focused on clinical and public health research. The program aims to empower early career researchers and institutions in developing countries to build their research capacity.
Gun violence claims thousands of lives in the US annually, with experts arguing that a public health approach is needed to address the issue. The 1997 funding freeze has hindered research into gun policies and safety, but experts propose steps such as tracking gun ownership and improving community training.
The new UK alcohol guidelines are unlikely to have a direct impact on drinking, but they do raise awareness of harm. The guidelines present novel information on the link between alcohol and cancer, leading to increased online searches for related terms.
A higher nurse to patient ratio is associated with a reduced risk of inpatient death, particularly when each registered nurse cares for an average of six or fewer medical inpatients. Policies geared towards substituting registered nurses with healthcare support workers should be reviewed.
BMJ is offering free online resources to help healthcare professionals keep up with the latest developments and guidance on diagnosing, advising, and treating patients affected by the Zika virus. The resources include information from leading health organizations such as WHO, Public Health England, and CDC.
A UK study found a link between reduced one-to-one nursing care for sick newborns and higher death rates in neonatal intensive care. The study suggests that improving staffing ratios could reduce neonatal deaths and is in line with guidelines from the British Association of Perinatal Medicine.
Two senior doctors argue that pacemaker battery life must be improved to reduce replacement needs and associated risks. Over half of patients will need new batteries, exposing them to serious complications like infection.
A new investigation by The BMJ questions the validity of a pivotal trial supporting rivaroxaban's approval, citing concerns over a faulty blood clotting test device. Doctors and scientists are now calling for an independent investigation and access to original trial data to clarify the drug's benefits and harms.
A professor of psychiatry argues that schizophrenia should be replaced with 'psychosis spectrum syndrome' due to the complexity and heterogeneity of psychotic illness. The current classification system uses outdated language and may lead to misdiagnosis or overemphasis on this condition.
A study published in The BMJ found that internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can effectively treat body dysmorphic disorder, reducing symptom severity and depression. Participants who received BDD-NET showed significant improvements compared to those receiving online supportive therapy.
A study published by The BMJ found no direct association between benzodiazepine use and dementia, but suggests a possible link in those with low or moderate use. Healthcare providers are still advised to avoid benzodiazepines in older adults due to potential adverse health outcomes.
A consultant cardiologist calls for a culture shift in British medicine to prioritize integrity and transparency, highlighting the case of Anjan Kumar Banerjee, who was awarded an MBE despite research fraud and financial misconduct. The doctor argues that the system is opaque and prone to manipulation.
A study published in Gut journal reveals a 10-fold difference in bowel cancer cases and deaths worldwide, with higher incidence linked to economic development. The adoption of a Western lifestyle is suspected to contribute to the rising rates, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
A large study of military conscripts suggests that a tendency to stress easily in early adulthood is linked to an increased risk of developing high blood pressure in later life. Men with low stress resilience scores at age 18 were more than three times as likely to have high blood pressure, regardless of weight or other factors.
A laboratory study found that cherry-flavored e-cigarettes contain significantly higher levels of benzaldehyde than other flavors, which can irritate the airways. The study suggests that long-term use of cherry-flavored e-cigarettes may result in repeated exposure to this substance.
A study of 536 patients found that those admitted as medical emergencies at weekends are significantly older and more physically incapacitated than weekday admissions. The researchers suggest this may explain the higher death toll for weekend hospital admissions.
A systematic review found antidepressants increase aggression and suicidal thoughts in children, with a doubled risk compared to adults. Experts recommend minimal use and alternative treatments like exercise or psychotherapy.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that increased flavonoid consumption was associated with less weight gain. The largest association was seen for anthocyanins, flavonol polymers, and flavonols, with daily intake linked to a reduction of 0.16-0.23 lbs (0.07-0.10 kg) over four-year intervals.
Research finds that teens who vape are almost three times more likely to start smoking a year later than non-vapers. Vaping is also associated with increased e-cigarette use among teens, but not necessarily reduced smoking frequency.
Research shows that placing a child in the recovery position after losing consciousness can lower hospital admission rates. However, most parents do not use this method and instead resort to potentially dangerous manoeuvres like shaking, slapping, or blowing on the face.