A review of research on solastalgia and mental health found positive associations between the two, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and somatisation. Solastalgia is linked to feelings of helplessness and resignation due to a perceived loss of control over environmental changes.
The deliberate destruction of health services and systems is now termed 'healthocide,' with medical practitioners called to action. The authors highlight the need for critical reflection and decisive action to address this growing concern, emphasizing the importance of medical neutrality and international humanitarian law.
A large intergenerational study of over 20,000 participants found that childhood verbal abuse has a significant and long-lasting impact on adult mental health, comparable to physical abuse. The study suggests that verbal abuse may be overlooked but can still exert toxic stress on children's neurobiological development.
A long-term study suggests that UK teens who vape are 33% more likely to start smoking than those who don't vape. The decline in teenage smoking rates is waning for those who have used e-cigarettes and has reversed for those currently using them.
Pooled data analysis shows exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation significantly improves AF symptom severity, frequency, and length, while reducing risk of recurrence. It also enhances exercise capacity and mental health without adverse effects.
A higher intake of ultra-processed food is linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. Limiting UPF consumption may help reduce the global burden of the disease. Research found that participants in the highest quarter of energy-adjusted UPF consumption were 41% more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer.
A study found that many UK high street health tests are unfit-for-purpose due to a lack of information on test accuracy, suitability, and follow-up actions. Experts argue that the current market fails to support informed use and calls for coherent guidance and improved regulation to protect patients and healthcare systems.
A large study suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists may have a lower cumulative risk of developing dementia compared to metformin. The findings indicate that these drugs could be prioritized in future clinical guidelines for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
The annual UK cost of PTSD is estimated to top £40 billion, with direct costs averaging £1,118 per patient and indirect costs ranging from £11,373 to £16,797. The condition's economic burden is likely higher due to unmeasured costs such as stigma and discrimination.
An analysis of National Poison Data System reports found a near tripling in US reported lidocaine local anesthetic poisonings/deaths over the past decade, contrasting with a substantial fall in reports associated with other local anesthetics. The increase was primarily driven by a rise in reports of death associated with lidocaine.
Research suggests that exercise is a viable primary treatment option for insomnia, with yoga, Tai Chi, walking, and jogging showing promising results. Yoga increases total sleep time by nearly 2 hours and improves sleep efficiency, while Tai Chi outperforms existing treatments in all assessed outcomes.
The bariatric weight reduction surgery medical tourism industry lacks regulation, posing safety, ethical, and legal risks for patients. Many patients self-refer for the procedure due to high costs in their home country, and there's often a lack of preoperative and postoperative follow-up.
Research finds nearly a third of UK maternal deaths between 2014 and 2022 were linked to children's social care services. Women with such involvement were at higher risk of dying from psychiatric causes, murder, and mental health-related issues.
A pooled data analysis of 85 studies found that consistently physically active adults had a 30–40% lower risk of death from any cause. Increasing physical activity levels also resulted in a 20–25% lower risk of death, with switching to an active lifestyle at any point extending lifespan.
A large medical record study found that receiving six or more gabapentin prescriptions for low back pain significantly increases the risk of developing dementia (29% higher) and mild cognitive impairment (85% higher). Risks are particularly high among 18-64 year olds, with no age group considered safe from increased risks.
Junk food brands have over 90 partnerships with top UK sports, including football and Formula 1, despite growing concerns over their impact on public health. Experts call for a ban on junk food sponsorship of sports to protect children's health.
Experts call for radical change to make participatory healthcare the norm, valuing lived experiences and expertise equally. This shift is critical for improving healthcare's relevance, effectiveness, and inclusivity.
A rapid review found that physician associates provide safe and effective care when working under direct supervision of doctors, particularly for diagnosed patients. However, there is limited evidence to support their assessment of undiagnosed patients, raising concerns about patient safety.
A recent study found that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased cases of depressive and anxiety disorders, malaria in young children, and stroke and heart disease in older adults. The researchers highlight the need to strengthen health systems and adopt syndemic-informed strategies for future public health emergencies.
A large observational study found that women over 65 are at higher risk of cervical cancer due to HPV, contradicting current guidelines. The study suggests that these women should be re screened for cervical cancer as the risk is significantly higher than previously thought
A study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that a pro-inflammatory diet during pregnancy may raise a child's risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The research, which followed pregnant women from Denmark, found a 16% increase in risk for each unit increase in dietary measure of inflammatory food intake.
A large study found that a healthy diet rich in fibre and low in red meat, regular exercise, and not smoking significantly lowers diverticulitis risk. Lifestyle factors offset the effects of inherited genes, with a score of 5 being associated with a 50% lower risk.
A report from the BMJ Commission on the Future of the NHS highlights alarming normalization of racism and sexism in the NHS. Discrimination and inequities lead to poor health outcomes, staff wellbeing issues, and significant financial consequences.
Experts say that focusing on weight loss alone for obesity may not provide sustained long-term results and can contribute to societal weight bias. A patient-centered approach prioritizing health over weight is recommended.
A study published by The BMJ found that UK General Practice Performance Pay improved quality of care initially but did not lead to lasting improvements. Incentive withdrawal led to a decline in recorded quality of care, suggesting that financial motivation is crucial for sustaining positive changes.
Combining neck surgery with intensive speech therapy has been shown to improve communication skills and quality of life in patients with chronic post-stroke aphasia. The study found significant improvements in language function and reduced symptoms of depression, with no severe adverse events reported.
Research published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine found a strong association between working in person-contact roles and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. High levels of emotional demands and confrontation were particularly linked to a higher risk, especially among those with low social support at work.
A large UK study found a significant association between autoimmune diseases and persistent mental health issues, with higher risks in women. Chronic exposure to systemic inflammation may explain the associations, researchers suggest.
A systematic review of hand and wrist injuries among UK dog walkers estimates the annual cost to be over £23 million. Women and older adults are disproportionately affected by leash-related injuries.
The BMJ finds serious misreporting in two key platelet studies used to gain FDA approval for ticagrelor, a multibillion-dollar heart drug. The investigation reveals inaccurate primary endpoint results and unreported data, casting fresh doubts on the drug's safety and effectiveness.
Alternate day fasting shows small benefits in body weight reduction compared to continuous energy restriction and other intermittent fasting approaches, but longer trials are needed to confirm these findings. Intermittent fasting may also lead to lower cholesterol levels.
A study found that prolonged use of desogestrel pill is associated with a small increased risk of developing an intracranial meningioma, typically non-cancerous brain tumours. The risk is low compared to other progestogens and disappears one year after stopping treatment.
The number of people seeking treatment for ketamine addiction has increased eightfold since 2014-2015, with doctors warning of serious health problems and inadequate diagnostic criteria. Doctors call for better screening tools and treatments to address the growing concern of non-prescribed ketamine use.
High aflatoxin levels in Ghana's maize and peanuts contribute to the country's high liver cancer rates. Experts call for research to quantify the impact of fungal toxins on the disease.
A survey of 1408 doctors from 8 jurisdictions found that most would consider assisted dying if faced with advanced cancer or Alzheimer's disease. They predominantly prefer symptom relief over life-sustaining treatments, and their preferences are influenced by local legislation on euthanasia.
A clinical trial found that dapagliflozin improved metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis and liver fibrosis in patients with progressive liver disease, a condition affecting over 5% of adults. The treatment also showed resolution of inflammation and improvement without worsening of fibrosis.
A study found that P2Y12 inhibitor therapy was associated with a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack, or stroke compared to aspirin in patients with coronary artery disease. No significant difference in major bleeding was seen between groups.
Children born to mothers with a BMI of 35 or higher are at heightened risk of being admitted to hospital for an infection. Maternal obesity is characterised by chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of a disordered immune system response and unfavourable changes to the gut microbiome.
Research finds that following a low-calorie diet is associated with a heightened risk of depressive symptoms, especially in men who are overweight. The study analyzed data from over 28,500 adults and found that calorie-restrictive diets were linked to higher cognitive-affective symptom scores in men.
A large observational study suggests that US general military service may actually lower, rather than heighten, the risk of depression. The study found a 22-23% lower risk of depression associated with military service, after adjusting for influential factors such as age, sex, and income.
A recent study suggests that 40% of US adults who currently smoke experience some level of functional difficulty, twice as high as those who have never smoked. The most common disabilities among smokers are mobility and cognitive issues.
Leading Indian and Pakistani pediatricians warn of the dangers of prolonged conflict and its consequences on public health. They urge both countries to take constructive engagement and initiate a path of peace using health diplomacy.
A large US study found that symptomatic herpes simplex 1 infection may contribute to Alzheimer's disease development. People treated with antiviral therapy were less likely to develop the condition, suggesting a potential protective effect.
A comparative study suggests standardising disposable vape device colour and branding can deter young people from trying them, but may reduce the appeal of vapes for those who smoke. This could offset public health benefits by decreasing the number of young people transitioning from smoking to vaping.
A review of global reports on magnet swallowing among children found that the issue persists despite increased regulations. The US reported the highest number of cases, and a significant proportion required medical interventions. Policy restrictions have shown varying effects, with bans associated with fewer cases.
A study found a decline in new dementia cases in the US from 2015 to 2021, but an increase in those living with the condition. The incidence of dementia decreased among older adults, while prevalence increased, highlighting disparities by race and socioeconomic status.
Research suggests that physical activity and organized sports participation can help ward off childhood mental ill health, with benefits seen in boys. However, findings indicate sex differences in protective effects, with boys showing stronger associations between physical activity and lower risk of depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Preliminary research suggests that long working hours can induce neuroadaptive changes in the brain, particularly in areas associated with emotional regulation and executive function. The study found increased brain volumes in regions such as the middle frontal gyrus, which is involved in attention and problem-solving.
The UK's failure to focus on COVID-19 suppression led to thousands of avoidable deaths, according to an expert. By following the World Health Organization's advice and East Asian countries' strategies, the UK might have prevented up to 180,000 deaths.
A single blood test could identify early-stage cancer in up to half of cases, potentially preventing late-stage disease and improving patient outcomes. Regular MCED testing showed more favourable diagnostic rates than usual care alone, with annual screenings having a higher impact on stage shift.