A study found H7N9 virus transmission from a hospital patient to an unrelated individual, challenging common exposure assumptions. The live poultry market is considered the most probable source of infection for the original case.
Despite improvements in antidote availability, many UK hospitals still lack essential stocks for treating poisoned patients. The study found that only 20 out of 22 category A and B antidotes were stocked within the recommended time in over 78% of hospitals.
The merger of Anheuser-Busch InBev and SABMiller poses significant global health risks, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The new company's expansion plans in Africa are driven by targeting low-income consumers, echoing the strategies of transnational tobacco companies.
A recent report highlights the health risks associated with Taser use, particularly against mentally ill patients. The device has been linked to eye injuries, seizures, and even death, prompting a review of police use of force.
A consensus statement by 22 experts rejects the use of genetic testing to spot sporting talent or boost performance in children and young athletes. The limited scientific data on genetics of sports performance is insufficient to support these commercial tests.
Research finds a 'serious' toll on mental health after introducing tougher disability benefit assessments in England. A higher reassessment rate was linked to more suicides, mental ill health issues, and antidepressant prescribing. The study suggests that the policy may be undermining the mental health of claimants.
Classifying high risk has become a disease in itself, undermining preventive medicine efforts. Doctors and patients often lack understanding of what constitutes high risk and the anticipated treatment benefit, leading to ineffective prevention strategies.
There are around 500,000 new work-related illnesses every year, with over 13,000 deaths caused by occupational exposures. However, only 0.3% of these cases are reported to the Health and Safety Executive, leading to a lack of enforcement of employers' duty to protect workers.
A large study found that computer-assisted cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) provides little or no benefits for depression, with low patient adherence and engagement being the main reason. The study suggests that routine promotion of computer-based CBT should be reconsidered due to its ineffectiveness as a treatment.
Two new risk prediction tools can identify patients with diabetes who are at high risk of serious complications, such as blindness and amputation. The tools use variables that patients are likely to know or that are routinely recorded in general practice computer systems.
Research finds that areas with more restrictive alcohol licensing policies have lower drink-related hospital admissions, with a 2% reduction seen in local authorities with medium-high intensity scores. This suggests that tighter local curbs can lead to measurable reductions in alcohol-attributable hospital admissions.
Research reveals childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases, such as diabetes and thyroid disorders. The study found that survivors were up to 60% more likely to develop an autoimmune disorder than those without a history of childhood cancer, with the excess risk persisting for decades.
This week in BMJ Case Reports highlights the risks of accidental overdosing on herbal medicines, severe iron deficiency associated with heavy head lice infestation, and a rare complication involving a hair pin pierced through a child's kidney.
A US study found that physicians who spend more resources are less likely to face malpractice claims, regardless of whether it's for defensive or non-defensive reasons. The study analyzed data from nearly 19 million hospital admissions and found associations across seven specialties, with family medicine physicians being the exception.
Experts argue that banning smoking in all areas of psychiatric hospitals can lead to better patient engagement with treatment and improved mental health. Studies show that patients with serious mental health problems are more likely to die prematurely due to smoking-related diseases.
Experts warn that easily accessible online prescription sleeping tablets pose a significant risk of addiction and misuse, particularly for vulnerable individuals. The BMJ report highlights the need for regulatory authorities to ensure websites comply with medicines regulations.
A recent UK study found that around 1 in 100 patients are at risk of receiving an inappropriate prescription, highlighting the need for regular drug reviews. The study also emphasizes the importance of considering the risks of prescribing multiple drugs, particularly for older patients and those with multiple conditions.
Experts warn that chemsex, involving psychoactive drugs for extended periods, poses significant health risks, including HIV and mental health problems. Limited data hinders advice from clinicians, and funding for specialized services is waning.
A large study has linked consumption of at least two daily glasses of sweetened drinks to a heightened risk of heart failure in men. The researchers analyzed data from over 42,000 men in Sweden and found that those who drank two or more glasses per day were 23% more likely to develop heart failure compared to non-consumers.
A large study of UK professional footballers found that nearly 4 out of 10 have active tooth decay, while 1 in 20 has irreversible gum disease. This poor dental health is affecting performance and wellbeing among players, highlighting the need for regular screening and preventive approaches.
Recent policy changes in Europe's agricultural sector could lead to higher sugar prices, increased production of high-fructose corn syrup, and more affordable sugary foods. This may disproportionately affect lower socioeconomic groups and widen health inequalities.
Vulnerable populations face dire consequences from snake bites, with millions dying or maimed due to inadequate treatment and affordability issues. The head of the Australian Venom Research Unit argues for urgent international action to strengthen regulatory agencies and increase access to effective antivenoms.
A Japanese study found that exposure to secondhand smoke at four months old is associated with a twofold increased risk of caries in deciduous teeth. The study analyzed data from over 76,000 children and found that household smoking was also linked to an increased risk of tooth decay.
A systematic review of heart failure drug effectiveness found only six studies provided usable data due to difficulties accessing author contact information. The researchers argue that improved data sharing mechanisms are needed to prevent selective reporting and research fraud.
Experts believe video recording can increase accountability and improve quality through increased transparency. This approach has successfully reduced speeding vehicles and improved hand washing rates in hospitals.
Faecal transplants have shown an 85% success rate in treating severe infections like C difficile, outperforming standard antibiotic treatment. However, experts warn of potential risks and call for proper screening of donors, long-term trials, and monitoring to ensure safe and effective use.
A consultant nephrologist criticizes Wales' upcoming opt-out organ donation system, citing concerns over a lack of commitment among potential donors. He believes that more radical solutions are needed to increase organ donation and argues that the current system may not be effective in addressing these issues.
An international team of researchers analyzed data from 308,297 nuclear industry workers and found a linear increase in cancer mortality with increasing radiation exposure. The study strengthens the scientific basis for current radiation protection standards.
A pooled analysis of available evidence suggests that high levels of total cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of tendon abnormalities and pain. Chronic low-level inflammation, prompted by cholesterol build-up in immune cells, may be a key factor contributing to this link.
Researchers have discovered a new gene, snoRNA42, linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer recurrence and shortened survival. This gene may serve as a reliable biomarker for selecting high-risk patients who can benefit from personalized treatments.
A large study published in The BMJ found that women who underwent hysteroscopic sterilization using the Essure device had a significantly higher risk of reoperation following complications. The study analyzed data from over 8,000 and 44,000 women who underwent laparoscopic sterilization.
Recent reports from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Resolution Foundation reveal that poor children will see their income substantially reduced, potentially leading to more poverty. Experts warn that these changes will have serious implications for child health, with potentially 600,000 children in poverty by 2016.
A recent study by researchers at King's College London found that general practices using the urgent referral pathway (two-week wait system) have lower cancer mortality rates compared to those that rarely use this pathway. Increasing its use could improve patient survival, especially for patients from low-referring practices.
UK cage fighters are engaging in potentially hazardous behaviors to shed pounds quickly, with two-thirds using 'water loading' and one-third taking diuretics. The researchers warn of increased risk of brain damage from head blows sustained during loss of consciousness.
Only four out of 27 mental health apps accredited by the NHS provide scientific proof that they work, with many failing to demonstrate clinical effectiveness. The authors urge removal of these apps from the NHS library to prevent potential harm and waste of money.
A survey of UK healthcare professionals found that most doctors and nurses use their own smartphones for patient care, with over 92% of doctors and 53% of nurses deeming them 'very useful' or 'useful'. However, the lack of digital security measures and data encryption raises concerns about potential privacy breaches.
An expert argues that home is not always the best or preferred place to die, and that hospitals should be given more attention and resources for providing excellent end-of-life care. Dr. Kristian Pollock highlights the need for improved pain control and support services in both home and hospital settings.
Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that exercising up to five times a week before pregnancy can help prevent pelvic girdle pain. High-impact activities like jogging and ball games were most beneficial.
A study published in The BMJ reveals significant disparities in bowel cancer mortality rates across Europe, with notable variations between men and women and different regions. Colorectal cancer mortality has decreased in many European countries over the past two decades, but important differences remain.
A study of 173,797 female breast cancer patients found that catching cancers when they are small makes a difference to survival, even with modern therapies. Traditional factors such as tumour size and lymph node status have a significant influence on overall mortality independent of age and tumour biology.
Pregnant women should abstain from alcohol due to the risk of fetal alcohol syndrome and developmental abnormalities. Current guidance is inconsistent and often misleading, leaving women uncertain about safe levels of consumption.
The BMJ expert advocates for hospital e-cigarette access to aid smoking cessation, reduce passive smoking risks, and promote healthier alternatives. The policy ban on e-cigarettes may harm patients' health, particularly during nicotine withdrawal.
A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 10 healthcare company board positions are held by top academics from renowned medical institutions. These directors receive significant compensation, including annual payments of $193,000 and stock options, posing major individual and institutional conflict of interests.
Two studies published in The BMJ conclude that increasing calcium intake through supplements or dietary sources has no significant impact on bone health or fracture prevention. Experts argue that mass medication with high doses of calcium and vitamin D is not justified due to the risk of adverse events.
A study analyzing civilian deaths in Syria from 2011 to 2015 found that explosive weapons had disproportionate lethal effects on women and children. Children were more likely to be fatal victims of air bombardments, shells, and ground level explosives than men or women.
Cancer patients with high cardiovascular hormone/peptide levels have a shorter survival rate, even without clinical signs of heart disease or infection. These biomarkers indicate heart tissue damage directly linked to cancer progression.
Research published in Gut found that a high-fiber diet is associated with increased levels of health-promoting short-chain fatty acids, which may help reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The study also showed that vegans and vegetarians had higher levels of these beneficial compounds.
The BMJ investigation found that the expert report underlying the latest US dietary guidelines fails to reflect relevant scientific literature, risking a misleading picture. The guidelines affect millions of Americans and food labelling, education, and research priorities.
Stillbirths are expected to increase by 52 million between now and 2035 if no action is taken. Experts advocate for clear targets to prevent stillbirths in national and global health plans.
Experts recommend a second ultrasound scan within 7-14 days after initial scan to avoid misdiagnosis of healthy pregnancies. The study analyzed 2,845 women's scans and provides new criteria for repeat scans.