Cheese still laden with salt, despite many products meeting reduction targets
Research finds cheese sold in UK supermarkets remains high in salt content, varying widely even among same type, prompting need for more ambitious targets
BMJ Group
Prison smoking bans linked to substantial fall in deaths among US inmates
US study finds that prison smoking bans are associated with a substantial fall in deaths from smoking-related causes, such as heart disease and cancer. The study found that prisons with long-term bans saw a 9-11% reduction in smoking-related deaths, with longer-lasting bans leading to greater reductions.
More than threefold surge in number of male teens drinking alcohol in India
Research shows a more than threefold rise in male teen drinking alcohol in India, with those from urban areas and poorer households most affected. Early onset of drinking is associated with increased risk of lifetime dependence, injuries, and psychological distress.
Common tuberculosis vaccine can be used to prevent infection as well as disease
The BCG vaccine has a 60-80% protective efficacy against severe forms of tuberculosis in children. Research found that the vaccine is effective against TB infection, with a 19% effectiveness rate among vaccinated children after exposure.
Centralizing stroke services can reduce deaths and time in hospital
A study found that centralizing acute stroke services in urban areas can lead to significant reductions in mortality and length of hospital stay, particularly among patients with ischemic strokes. This approach resulted in a total annual saving of over 8,000 hospital days in London and Manchester.
Crowdsourcing may help dieters lose weight
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association found that crowdsourced ratings of food pictures by app users are comparable to those given by trained experts. This suggests that crowdsourcing may be a viable way to improve adherence to dietary self-monitoring and support weight loss.
Why we should vaccinate boys against HPV as well as girls
The human papillomavirus (HPV) infection affects both men and women, leading to genital warts and various types of cancer. Vaccinating boys against HPV can prevent these health issues and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.
A blood test could help prevent neural tube birth defects
Researchers found a red blood cell folate concentration range of 1,000 to 1,300 nmol/L may prevent neural tube defects. This biomarker could inform folic acid fortification programs and monitor their success.
Five daily portions of fruit and vegetables may be enough to lower risk of death
A study of over 830,000 participants found that consuming at least five daily servings of fruit and vegetables was associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Higher consumption above five portions did not show further reduced risk of death.
Shift work linked to heightened risk of type 2 diabetes
Research suggests that shift work is associated with a heightened risk of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly among men and those working rotating shift patterns. The study found a 37% increased risk for men and a 9% increased risk for all participants compared to working normal office hours.
Investigation raises new concerns over top-selling blood-thinning drug
A new investigation by The BMJ raises concerns about the top-selling blood-thinning drug dabigatran, citing withheld company information and potential flaws in regulatory decisions. Key findings suggest that monitoring blood levels could reduce major bleeding risks by up to 30-40%.
Politically driven legislation targeting dangerous dogs has had little impact
A recent study suggests that dog bites pose an unknown public health risk, while ignoring the health benefits of dog ownership. Research is needed to improve care and estimate dog bite incidence to develop effective risk management strategies.
Underlying cause of cerebral palsy could lie in family links
A new study found a possible genetic link between cerebral palsy and family ties, with increased risks seen in twins, first cousins, and closer relatives. The study identified a stronger recurrence rate among co-twins of affected children and families with an affected single child.
Is it time to lock up those who commit research fraud?
Dr Zulfiqar Bhutta believes that criminal sanctions are necessary to deter research misconduct, citing high rates of scientific misconduct and significant human health consequences. However, Dr Julian Crane argues that criminalization would undermine trust in research and is not an effective deterrent.
Reduced range of facial expression indicates serious heart/lung disease
Preliminary research found that patients with serious heart and lung conditions have a narrower range of facial expressions, particularly the ability to register surprise. This can help doctors prioritize care and avoid unnecessary tests.
Patients with advanced co-existing illnesses and their carers face uphill struggle
Patients with advanced co-existinig illnesses struggle to cope with the bewildering array of services and treatments, often finding it 'impersonal' and 'challenging'. The analysis of patient and carer feedback emphasizes the need for a systematic approach to identify patients with multiple advanced illnesses.
Smokers with mental health issues cost UK nearly £2.5 billion a year
Research published in Tobacco Control finds that people with mental health issues who smoke incur significant economic costs due to premature death, lost productivity, and healthcare expenses. The total estimated annual cost is around £2.5 billion, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to help this group quit smoking.
Food imagery ideal for teaching doctors... who must have strong stomachs
A range of food descriptors is used in medicine to identify conditions and ailments, from 'anchovy sauce' to 'oat cell carcinoma.' Dairy products and fruit also feature prominently in the medical lexicon., These time-honored allusions serve as a lively learning inducement for generations of physicians.
Study finds wide variation in use of minimally invasive surgery in US hospitals
A study found significant variation in the use of minimally invasive surgery among US hospitals, with some offering it to only a fraction of eligible patients. Surgical complications are estimated to cost $25b annually in the US and can be reduced by using minimally invasive surgery.
Premature newborn survival 30 percent higher in high volume neonatal centres
High-volume neonatal centers have been shown to significantly improve premature newborn survival rates, with a 30% increase for overall premature births and a 50% increase for very premature babies born after less than 27 weeks of pregnancy. This study suggests that centralized care in these units leads to better outcomes.
Burst spinal artery aneurysm linked to Ecstasy use
A rare case of a posterior spinal artery aneurysm caused by Ecstasy use has been reported, highlighting the risk of severe complications from recreational drug taking. The teenager's symptoms worsened after a week, leading to an emergency transfer and successful surgery.
'Unhealthy' food/drinks have starring role in kids' TV programs
Research reveals unhealthy food and drinks are common in kids' TV programs, with frequent positive portrayals and few negative outcomes, highlighting the need for balanced content.
The BMJ calls for Assisted Dying Bill to become law
The BMJ editorial advocates for the Assisted Dying Bill, citing a strong public consensus of 82% in favor, as well as Oregon's experience with assisted dying legislation. The bill aims to allow terminally ill adults to end their lives with medical assistance.
Welfare reforms are increasing GP workload and harming patients, finds BMJ investigation
A survey of UK GPs reveals soaring workloads due to financial hardship among patients, with over two-thirds believing patient health is being harmed by benefit cuts. GPs are also asked to provide medical information for Work Capacity Assessments and help patients appeal against benefits removal.
Around two thirds of Viagra may be illegal, warn Dutch experts
Researchers estimate that at least 60% of sildenafil consumed in the Netherlands is not from prescribed sources, with potential for widespread misuse of rogue online pharmacies
Patient safety violations and poor record keeping common in clinical trial concerns
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found that failure to monitor progress according to the stated schedule was the most common concern among clinical trial sponsors, followed by failure to obtain the agreement of the principal investigator. Poor record keeping was also a significant issue, with 40% of warnings related to it.
A fifth of children visiting their doctor with a persistent cough could have whooping cough
A study found that a fifth of UK school age children visiting their doctor with a persistent cough could have whooping cough, even if they have been fully vaccinated. The research suggests that an adolescent booster vaccination is needed to protect against pertussis infection.
Make life jackets compulsory for all recreational boaters to save lives, urge experts
A law introduced in Victoria, Australia in 2005 made life jacket wear compulsory for all recreational boaters, resulting in a significant decline in drowning deaths. The study found that the odds of wearing a life jacket rose eight-fold, and the number of drownings fell from 59 to 16 in six years.
Prisoners unfairly excluded from general clinical research
Current UK guidance excludes prisoners from participating in general clinical research due to perceived difficulties and costs. However, researchers argue that this approach is protectionist and denies prisoners equal access to healthcare and research opportunities.
Sharp rise in professional queries about harmful effects of 'fat burning' agent
The number of enquiries made to the National Poisons Information Service about 2,4-Dinitrophenol's harmful effects has sharply risen in the past three years. The most commonly reported symptoms include fever, rapid heart rate and sweating.
Electronic health record patient safety issues persist long after 'go live' date
Research reveals that electronic health record patient safety issues continue long after the implementation of EHRs, with complex mix of human and technological causes. Sophisticated monitoring systems are needed to address these problems.
Poorly understood postural syndrome blights lives of young well educated women
Postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS) affects young, well-educated women with severe symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and excessive fatigue. The syndrome is often misdiagnosed and inconsistently treated, leading to significant disability and impact on quality of life.
E-cigarettes in Europe mostly used by current smokers or would-be quitters
A study of e-cigarette use in Europe found that over 29 million adults have tried the products, with current smokers and would-be quitters more likely to use them. The analysis highlights the need for evaluating the long-term health impact of e-cigarettes and their role in smoking cessation.
Ten new e-cigarette brands and over 240 new flavors appear monthly on the web
A recent study reveals the e-cigarette market has seen a significant surge in new brands and flavors, with nearly all offering tobacco and menthol options. Newer brands focus on consumer choice, while older ones emphasize 'cigalike' qualities and health benefits.
Use of cement in partial hip replacement linked to risk of death
Research published in BMJ Open found a link between cement use in partial hip replacement and sudden death, cardiac arrest, or severe decline within minutes of surgery. The study analyzed 62 cases of bone cement implantation syndrome (BCIS) between 2005 and 2012.
Smartphone apps carry higher infection risk than online dating sites or clubs
A US study suggests that smartphone apps pose a higher risk of gonorrhoea and chlamydia among gay men, who are more likely to engage in unprotected sex with anonymous partners. The study found that app users were 23% more likely to be infected with gonorrhoea and 35% more likely to be infected with chlamydia.
Estimated risk of breast cancer increases as red meat intake increases
A US-based study of 88,803 premenopausal women found a significant association between high red meat intake and increased breast cancer risk. Replacing red meat with a combination of legumes, poultry, nuts, and fish was linked to a lower risk of breast cancer.
The BMJ launches patient partnership strategy
The BMJ is implementing a patient partnership strategy to integrate patients' perspectives into its editorial processes, research, and healthcare advocacy. This initiative aims to advance shared decision-making, patient-centered care, and impact assessment of patient partnerships.
Experts urge government to publish draft regulations on plain tobacco packaging
Experts warn that UK government's delay in publishing plain tobacco packaging draft regulations will exacerbate public health crisis. The proposed measures aim to reduce smoking rates and protect children from tobacco marketing.
Rates of prediabetes have tripled over past decade in England
Rates of prediabetes have tripled over the past decade in England, affecting over a third of adults. Those from disadvantaged backgrounds and black and minority ethnicities are disproportionately affected, with up to one in 10 progressing to diabetes annually.
Carcinogens in hairdressers' blood linked to frequency of dye and perm use
A recent study found that frequent use of permanent dyes and perming treatments may expose hairdressers to banned aromatic amines, linked to increased cancer risk. The researchers recommend protective measures such as wearing gloves to minimize skin exposure.
Exercise boosts diversity of gut bacteria
A study of professional rugby players found that exercise increased the diversity of gut microbiota, which was positively correlated with a favourable metabolic profile and immune system response. Higher dietary protein intake also played a role in this association.
Air pollution linked to irregular heartbeat and lung blood clots
A large study finds that high levels of certain air pollutants are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including irregular heart rhythms and lung blood clots. The research suggests that particulate matter is particularly harmful for elderly people.
Divorce may be linked to higher risk of overweight/obesity among kids involved
A Norwegian study found that children whose parents were divorced were more likely to be overweight or obese than those with married parents. Boys were particularly at risk, with a 54% higher likelihood of being overweight and a 89% higher likelihood of abdominal obesity.
Should sugary drinks carry a health warning?
A recent survey found that 60% of adults support health warnings similar to those on cigarette packets, while 70% favor banning sugary drinks in schools or limiting sugar content.
Higher NHS spending in deprived areas can reduce health inequalities
A policy of higher NHS spending in deprived areas is associated with a reduction in absolute health inequalities from causes amenable to healthcare. This trend continues even after adjusting for other factors, suggesting that targeting resources at deprived areas may be an effective strategy.
School scheme unable to boost healthy eating and activity among kids
A school-based intervention aimed at increasing physical activity, reducing sedentary behavior, and improving fruit and vegetable consumption among children showed no significant effect. However, the program did reduce weekend screen time and snack consumption in children.
Decision to jettison end of life Liverpool Care Pathway 'too extreme'
The Liverpool Care Pathway's correct use improves end of life care, despite widespread complaints. The pathway recommends morphine to relieve pain and involve relatives in decision-making, contrary to media reports.
Improved GP access in standard hours may trump extended opening times
Research suggests that improving family doctor access during standard working hours could reduce the demand for out-of-hours primary care services. By offering more appointments during regular surgery hours, this approach might be more effective than extending opening hours.
Scrap 'iniquitous' and 'outdated' NHS prescription charges, urges DTB
The NHS prescription charge is outdated and unfair, say the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin. Many exemptions are illogical and adding to the tax on medicines, it argues. Several alternative arrangements have been suggested, including a dispensing fee for patients.