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.
Two US studies published in The BMJ reveal a significant increase in drugs approved via expedited pathways, raising concerns about efficacy and safety. The findings suggest that most new drugs may not be significantly more effective than existing products.
Research at Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust found a 90% medical bed occupancy target reduced hospital death rates by 4.5-4.8% and improved the national 4-hour A&E waiting target performance from 33% to 51.4%.
A pooled analysis of studies found that Tai Chi improved physical capacity and quality of life in people with breast cancer, heart failure, osteoarthritis, and COPD without worsening pain or breathlessness. The exercise also showed benefits for muscle strength and sit-to-stand times in patients with osteoarthritis.
A reanalysis of a 2001 study on antidepressants found that popular drug paroxetine is neither safe nor effective for adolescents with depression. The new results contradict the original research and have important implications for research and practice.
Leading health experts raise concerns over the safety and effectiveness of e-cigarettes, citing low-quality evidence and methodological issues. The BMJ article highlights the need for evidence-based advice on e-cigarettes to avoid influence from vested interests.
A total ban on trans fatty acids in processed foods in England could potentially prevent or postpone about 7,200 deaths from coronary heart disease over the next five years. Policies to improve labelling or simply remove trans fatty acids from restaurants and takeaways could save between 1,800 and 3,500 deaths
A study found that cases flagged by 3M as preventable received no worse care than unflagged cases, suggesting that the measure may not accurately capture quality of care. The researchers concluded that either PPR flagged cases are not more preventable or that assessment requires other data collection methods.
Global health experts highlight critical actions and investments to impact the health and well-being of women, children and adolescents. The new Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health aims to prevent deaths and improve the health of millions.
Emergency services clinicians face a 60% heightened risk of injury and illness when working shifts of 16-24 hours. Prolonged work hours compromise physical strength, mental focus, and alertness, increasing the risk of accidents.
A pooled analysis of available evidence finds that eating a lot of fish may help curb the risk of depression in Europe. The association is equally significant among men and women, with a 17% reduction in depression risk found for those eating the most fish compared to those eating the least.
A study published in BMJ Open found that working 12+ hour shifts is associated with greater levels of burnout, job dissatisfaction, and intention to leave among hospital nurses. The findings ran counter to the perceived value of longer shifts, which are increasingly common practice in many countries.
A study published in The BMJ found that patients admitted to NHS hospitals on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays have a higher risk of death compared to those admitted during the week. This "weekend effect" is attributed to reduced support services and increased severity of illness.
A recent report by SATHI reveals that many Indian doctors are under pressure to perform expensive but unnecessary tests and surgeries to meet financial targets, putting patient safety at risk. The BMJ argues that a radical change is needed in the structure and functioning of the Medical Council of India.
A study published by The BMJ reveals that over 70% of antipsychotic prescriptions are given to those without recorded mental illness, instead used for managing challenging behavior. Researchers call for changes in prescribing practices and more evidence on drug safety in intellectual disability populations.
Experts in an editorial published in Open Heart argue that promoting nutritional value over calorie counting can rapidly improve health outcomes. Boosting omega 3 fatty acid intake, olive oil, and nut consumption have been associated with reductions in deaths from all causes and cardiovascular disease.
A large study of over 13,000 pairs of sisters found that firstborn women are significantly more likely to be overweight or obese than their second-born sisters. The researchers also noted a link between shrinking family size and an increase in adult body mass index (BMI) globally.
A project in Togo saw a 10% drop in TB death rates by increasing the treatment success rate to 95%, while mortality dropped from 13% to 3%. The redesigned system improved coverage, quality, and patient participation, highlighting the importance of data analysis and skilled workforce.
A population study reveals that a well-balanced maternal diet before pregnancy reduces the risk of certain heart abnormalities in newborns. The research found that women with higher diet quality had a lower risk of congenital heart defects, including tetralogy of Fallot and atrial septal defects.
Research published in Injury Prevention found that men with a 'male discrepancy stress' - feeling they fall short of traditional male norms and worrying others think so too - are more likely to commit violent assaults. The study suggests substance use may be less relevant to demonstrating masculinity than sex and violence.