Around 846 million people under 50 are living with genital herpes, and over 200 million experienced symptomatic outbreaks in 2020. Researchers call for new treatments and vaccines to curb the spread of the infection and its health and financial toll.
Higher cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with better performance across all 5 cognitive domains assessed, including processing speed and executive function/attentional control. This association holds true irrespective of key risk factors for cognitive decline, such as age and APOE4 gene carriage.
1 in 6 US adults with asthma cite cost as reason for not taking meds as prescribed, leading to near doubling of asthma attack risk and 60% greater odds of emergency care visits. Financial hardship remains a significant barrier to equitable access to healthcare policy.
E-scooter and e-bike injuries in the US have tripled since 2019, with most incidents involving alcohol or substance use, particularly among young riders. The study found that nearly 18% of e-scooter visits and 12.5% of e-bike visits ended in hospital admissions.
A recent investigation reveals widespread influence of food brands in schools and nurseries through breakfast clubs, nutrition guidance, and healthy eating campaigns. The study highlights the need for greater scrutiny and pushback on these tactics, which experts deem 'subtle but very problematic'.
A long-term US study found that eating five servings of dark chocolate a week reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes by 21% compared to those who rarely or never eat chocolate. In contrast, milk chocolate consumption was not significantly associated with type 2 diabetes risk.
Direct-to-consumer tests may provide misleading information and trigger unnecessary medical interventions, warn experts. Inaccurate results can cause false positives or false reassurance, leading to delayed treatment and health risks.
Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that just 1.5-4 daily minutes of high-intensity routine activities like brisk stair climbing or carrying heavy shopping can significantly lower cardiovascular disease risk among women who don't exercise regularly. The study, which tracked over 81,000 middle-aged men and...
The study estimated that the total cost of chikungunya infections between 2011-20 was approximately US$49.9 billion, with chronic disease making up most of this total. The infection had a devastating impact on individuals and communities, causing widespread disability and economic loss.
An investigation by The BMJ found over 180 medical articles funded by the fossil fuel industry, with ties to top journals including The BMJ and The Lancet. Experts demand stronger action against the industry's influence on research, citing similarities with tobacco companies in harm caused and tactics used.
Research finds that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) containing oestrogen and progestogen increases the risk of heart disease and blood clots, while tibolone has a similar effect on heart attack and stroke. Transdermal HRT treatments show no increased risk.
A review of trials suggests that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and physical and mental rehabilitation can reduce fatigue and improve concentration. Intermittent aerobic exercise also improves physical function.
Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that irregular sleep-wake cycles are associated with a heightened risk of major cardiovascular events. People with regular sleep patterns were 26% less likely to experience these events than those with irregular patterns, even if they met recommended sleep quotas.
A long-term study of 34,425 participants found that men with cardiovascular disease risk factors experience brain health decline between ages 55-74, while women experience it between 65-74. The effects are associated with abdominal fat and visceral adipose tissue.
A large US-based study linked endometriosis and uterine fibroids to a heightened long-term risk of premature death. The research, published in The BMJ, found that women with these conditions had a 31% higher risk of mortality compared to those without the conditions, largely driven by deaths from gynaecological cancers.
A study of 236,000 nurses and 41,800 senior doctors found high turnover rates associated with higher deaths for emergency patients admitted to NHS hospitals. Reducing staff turnover through better pay packages, engagement, and working conditions could improve patient care.
A study of 61,214 dementia-free individuals found that high cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with better cognitive performance and a lower risk of dementia. The findings suggest that enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness could be a strategy for preventing dementia in people with a genetic predisposition.
A study found that oral microbiomes vary with life stress and mental health symptoms in pregnant women, differing from gut microbiome associations. Women experiencing anxiety or depression showed high alpha diversity, while those with PTSD symptoms had high beta diversity.
A modeling study suggests that if Americans over 40 match the physical activity level of the top 25%, their average lifespan would increase by 5 years. The least physically active group could live up to 11 years longer, with each hour of walking adding 6 hours to life expectancy.
A US study found that adverse events affect 38% of adults undergoing surgery, with major incidents occurring in nearly half of cases. Most adverse events are preventable, emphasizing the need for ongoing improvement in patient safety.
Outsourcing adult social care services has led to worse care and increased inequalities. Experts suggest removing the profit motive would improve quality, but acknowledge it's not a standalone solution.
Research suggests that a 1% increase in green space in deprived urban areas could lead to 40% fewer preventable deaths. The study found that access to green space is poorest in the most deprived areas, with significant associations between green space and preventable deaths in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
A review of qualitative evidence highlights men's unique experiences of the perinatal period, including anxiety, stress, and feelings of exclusion. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted support, education, and inclusion of fathers in parental information.
Research finds that certain combinations of long term conditions increase hospital admission risk by up to 11 times and death risk by up to 24 times. The study analyzed data from 2021-22 and identified specific quartets that are associated with heightened risks, highlighting the need for targeted planning and resource allocation.
Research found that individuals at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis have distinct gut microbiome compositions, including an overabundance of Prevotellaceae species. This microbial signature correlates with traditional risk factors and is most pronounced in those who progress to the disease.
A pooled data analysis of 35 studies found that exercise-only interventions reduced the severity of depression and anxiety after giving birth, with a significant reduction in postpartum depression risk. The minimum threshold for achieving effects was at least 80 weekly minutes of moderate intensity exercise.
A study warns that a tightly tied waist cord of the underskirt in traditional sarees may lead to 'petticoat cancer' or Marjolin ulcer due to chronic inflammation. Doctors advise wearing loose clothing to ease pressure on the skin and prevent skin cancer.
A WHO guideline panel is under fire for lacking transparency and association with WPATH, which supports 'gender affirming' approach. The controversy raises questions about the evidence-based nature of the recommendations.
Researchers found that SGLT-2 inhibitors may simultaneously tackle kidney stones and gout flare-ups in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests these medications can increase urinary volume and lower uric acid levels, reducing the concentration of stone-forming crystals.
A group of palliative medicine consultants criticize the APM's strong opposition to legalizing assisted dying, arguing it undercuts confidence in palliative care and stifles open discussion. They propose a more nuanced approach, acknowledging that end-of-life decisions should be made with trained healthcare professionals involved.
Research suggests that just one or two sessions of physical activity per week can lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, which may be more convenient for busy people than regular exercise. The 'weekend warrior' pattern was found to be associated with a 25% lower risk of cognitive decline compared to non-exercisers.
A large observational study found associations between cannabis use and brain structure and function changes in later life. However, genetic analysis using Mendelian randomization suggests that these associations may not be causal, with possible explanations including unmeasured variables or differences in statistical power.
Research finds that sustained engagement in regular physical activity before and after a dementia diagnosis is associated with the greatest reduction in risk of death, regardless of dementia type. Maintaining an exercise routine or starting new activities also reduces mortality risk, with higher levels associated with greater reductions.
A clinical trial shows promise in using a gene signature to tailor chemotherapy for high-risk breast cancer patients, improving disease-free survival rates. Patients classified as low risk had significantly higher rates of disease-free and overall survival compared to those at high risk.
An investigation by The BMJ found that pharmaceutical companies made an estimated £156 million in non-research payments to NHS trusts in England between 2015 and 2022. Most payments were below £10,000, but some large payments were not explained by the trusts.
An analysis of 1.7 million suicides in 26 countries found that Monday has the highest suicide risk, followed by New Year's Day. Risk patterns vary across weekends and holidays, with some countries experiencing increased risks on Saturdays or Sundays.
A middle-aged man with scurvy was treated after neglecting his diet and stopping supplements due to financial constraints. He had multiple risk factors, including obesity, previous bariatric surgery, and low-income status, which led to vitamin C deficiency.
Research finds that people with schizophrenia are at a significantly higher risk of sudden cardiac death, with a lifetime risk 4+ times higher than the general population. The study also suggests that mental health disorders can lead to shortened lifespan and increased risk of other causes of death.
A systematic review of 12 studies found that urban green spaces are associated with lower rates of heat-related ill health and death, particularly among vulnerable groups. Additionally, urban greenery is linked to better mental health and wellbeing, potentially mitigating the negative effects of high temperatures.
UK health leaders are urging the chancellor to invest in creating a smoke-free UK, citing the significant economic burden of smoking (£93 billion annually) and the potential for increased funding through a 'polluter pays' levy on tobacco manufacturers. Investing in tobacco control can also improve public finances by saving £2.37 for ev...
A large study of over 3 million pregnancies found no association between paternal metformin use and risk of congenital malformations. The findings provide reassurance for clinicians in making informed treatment decisions when selecting metformin for men with type 2 diabetes who plan to have children.
Research suggests that up to 42% of postmenopausal hormone-positive breast cancer cases may be linked to excess body fat, a proportion significantly higher than previously estimated using the widely used measure of BMI. The study found that a validated measure of body fat called CUN-BAE yielded more accurate results.
Systematic review of published evidence reveals no evidence for airborne spread of nut allergens; surface residues pose main risk. Airlines can minimize risk by cleaning surfaces, allowing pre-boarding, and providing allergen-free options.
A unique condition dubbed 'headspin hole' has been identified in breakdancers, characterized by a protruding scalp lump, hair loss, and tenderness. Repeatedly performing headspins increases the risk of developing this condition, highlighting the importance of recognizing chronic scalp conditions in breakdancers.
Researchers found that AI-powered chatbot answers on top 50 most prescribed drugs in US were difficult to read and lacked information, posing potential harm to patients. Only 54% of answers aligned with scientific consensus, highlighting the need for caution when relying on these tools.
Climate misinformation threatens public trust in science and policy, say medical experts. By adopting a multifaceted approach, the medical community can mitigate its impact and promote informed public discourse.
Experts debate whether doctors should face sanctions for protesting against climate change, with some arguing that civil disobedience can lead to positive social change. Doctors like Sarah Benn have been suspended after breaching an injunction order, but others argue that the GMC's actions erode trust in the medical profession.
An analysis of global data from 34 countries found a strong association between extreme rainfall events and increased mortality rates. The study identified locations with lower rainfall variability and scarce vegetation as having higher risks of deaths after extreme rainfall events.
The prevalence of treatment-resistant vaginal thrush has increased significantly in the UK, with a fourfold rise in fluconazole resistance between 2018 and 2021. This trend follows a shift in clinical practice, with doctors now treating on signs and symptoms rather than confirmatory lab tests.
A global analysis of new cancer drug launches between 1990 and 2022 found significant disparities in availability and timeliness, with poorer countries missing out. The gap between rich and poor nations widened over three decades, suggesting such inequities may explain poor cancer outcomes in many lower-income countries.