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.
Even among non-smokers, women are 50% more likely to develop COPD than men. The study suggests that factors other than cigarette smoke may be at play, highlighting the need for targeted prevention and treatment efforts.
A brief spell of talking therapy with a general practitioner reduces symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in survivors of critical illness. The effects are modest, but the intervention may help bridge long waiting times between ICU discharge and access to specialist mental health services.
A UK study published in The BMJ found no direct association between gabapentinoid treatment and increased self-harm risk. However, rates of self-harm were higher before and after treatment, highlighting the need for close monitoring of patients throughout their treatment journey.
A new study found that no-touch vein harvesting significantly reduces the risk of graft failure up to three years after coronary artery bypass surgery compared to conventional harvesting. The technique also translates into meaningful clinical benefits for patients, such as lower rates of heart attacks and need for repeat revascularisat...
A long-term study published in BMJ Quality & Safety found that employing too few permanent nurses on hospital wards is linked to longer inpatient stays, readmissions, patient deaths, and ultimately costs more. Redressing the balance saves around £5000 for each year of healthy life gained, but not if temporary agency staff are used.
Regular exercise can reduce side effects of cancer treatment, such as heart damage, nerve damage, and brain fog. It also improves psychological wellbeing, sleep quality, and overall quality of life in people with cancer.
A special collection explores China's national strategy and case studies from provinces, detailing the interventions that led to elimination. However, experts warn that funding declines could reverse gains, with malaria cases and deaths predicted to increase if Global Fund and Vaccine Alliance funding declines in 2025.
A study published in The BMJ found that the start of US deer hunting season is associated with a 12% relative increase in firearm incidents, including non-hunting related incidents such as suicide and violent crime. Efforts to promote firearm safety during this time may help curb both hunting and non-hunting related firearm incidents.
A large study published in Open Heart found that people with moderate to severe varicose veins are more likely to experience hypersensitivity to cold and heaviness in their legs. The study also highlights the importance of acknowledging cold hypersensitivity as a subjective symptom associated with varicose veins.
Researchers suggest that taking a daily preventer dose of inhaled corticosteroid at mid-afternoon can effectively suppress nocturnal worsening of symptoms and improve lung function. This approach may lead to better clinical outcomes without increasing unwanted side effects or costs, but further larger trials are needed.
Research found that walking at a brisk pace was associated with significantly lower risks of all heart rhythm abnormalities compared to slow walking pace. The findings were strongest in women, the under 60s, those who weren't obese, and those with pre-existing long term conditions.
Experts call for a transformation in academic medicine to align goals with improving health outcomes, embedding ethics and participation. The BMJ Commission proposes five core principles to guide academic medicine globally.
A recent investigation reveals how the advertising industry is targeting councils with warnings of financial losses if they restrict junk food ads, leading to some councils shelving their plans. Experts are urging a national ban on out-of-home HFSS advertising to combat childhood obesity rates projected to increase by 50% by 2050.
A recent study published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine found that nearly 3 out of 4 teenage professional footballers in England have inflamed gums or periodontitis, with many experiencing tooth wear and breakage. The researchers emphasize the importance of good oral health for overall wellbeing and sporting performance.
A doctor argues that prescribing parkrun takes pleasure out of exercise, reducing patient autonomy and embedding social resources. While parkrun has benefits, regular attendance is low among inactive individuals.
A large long-term study found a significant association between hearing loss and increased risk of developing heart failure. The psychological distress caused by hearing impairment played a key role in this observed association, with socially isolated individuals and those experiencing anxiety and depression facing a heightened risk.
A pooled data analysis of existing research suggests that relaxation techniques can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure for people with high blood pressure after 3 or fewer months. The most commonly included interventions were breath control, yoga/tai chi, biofeedback, progressive muscle relaxation, and music.
A study published in General Psychiatry found that thickening of the macular layer of the retina is associated with a greater risk of postoperative delirium in older patients. Patients with thicker retinas were more likely to develop delirium and experience greater severity, suggesting that macular thickness may serve as a non-invasive...
People with low LDL-C levels have a lower risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease related dementia. Statin use further reduces dementia risk in those with low LDL-C levels.
A large population survey found that nearly 1 in 10 people in Great Britain experienced NHS-related harm due to treatment or care received, and lack of access to care. The study highlights significant inequities in rates and impact of harm, with disadvantaged groups experiencing higher rates and more severe impacts.
International experts say blanket restrictions on smartphone and social media access are ineffective in promoting healthy technology use among children. A rights-based approach focusing on age-appropriate design, education, and protection is needed to safeguard children from harm while developing skills for digital society participation.
Women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) experience reduced symptom intensity and interference in their lives when taking open-label placebos, especially when provided with a treatment explanation. The study found significant reductions in PMS symptoms and side effects, suggesting an acceptable and efficacious intervention.
A new guideline recommends that new mums aim for 120 minutes of aerobic and resistance activities per week, spread over four or more days. Daily pelvic floor muscle training is also advised to reduce urinary incontinence risk. Improving sleep quality and duration can support mental health.
A pooled data analysis of 301 trials found that only NSAIDs offer significant pain relief for acute low back pain, while exercise and spinal manipulation provide benefits for chronic low back pain. However, the effects are small and evidence is inconclusive for many treatments.
An analysis of observational studies found that higher consumption of fruit, dietary fibre, dairy products, and caffeine may reduce tinnitus risk by 35%, 9%, 17% and 10% respectively. Further large-scale studies are needed to verify the relationship.
The installation of safety nets on the Golden Gate Bridge has been shown to significantly reduce suicide rates by 73%, with a notable decrease in interventions by third parties. The study suggests that barriers are an effective means of reducing suicide at bridges, providing early evidence for policymakers.
A recent analysis of US FDA data found over 1.2 million medical device adverse event reports were not submitted on time, with 400,000 reported more than six months after notification. Late reporting may prevent early detection of patient safety concerns and impact future device development.
Researchers conclude that public health advice on safe consumption of glycerol-containing slush ice drinks is likely outdated, citing 21 cases of acute illness in children. The children's symptoms included reduced consciousness, hypoglycemia, and metabolic acidosis after consuming these products.
ADHD prescriptions in England increased 18% year on year since the pandemic, with wide regional variations. The trends suggest growing public and professional awareness, as well as the potential impact of COVID-19. Inequalities in access to care are highlighted by significant regional differences.
A pooled data analysis found that water aerobics can effectively reduce overall weight and trim waist circumference by 3 cm in obese or overweight participants. Exercise periods lasting more than 10 weeks significantly reduced body weight and waist circumference in women and those aged 45 and older.
A study published in The BMJ found that there is limited and variable quality evidence on the safety and effectiveness of physician associates and anaesthetic associates in the UK. Researchers recommend further investigation into staff concerns and safety incidents to inform a national scope of practice for these roles.