A study found that poor urban asthmatic children are more likely to seek emergency care for asthma than their affluent peers. The main reasons include parents' feelings of panic and anxiety about their child's symptoms, previous outpatient visits, and a belief that emergency care provides faster treatment.
Research found ibuprofen may boost the likelihood of heart problems in high-risk patients with osteoarthritis. High-dose ibuprofen was linked to a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes compared to other treatments, including lumiracoxib and naproxen.
Research published in Thorax found that a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts protects against allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms among children. The study analyzed dietary habits, respiratory symptoms, and allergic reactions of over 700 children living on the Greek island of Crete.
Research published in Tobacco Control found that smokers took almost 11 extra days off sick compared to non-smokers, accounting for 43% of all sick leave. Despite adjusting for health and socioeconomic factors, the difference remained below eight days.
A study of 224 children aged 7-10 found exercise had a significant impact on body fat for boys and girls, but in different ways. Boys were more physically fit, with increased hard exercise linked to reduced weight, while girls benefited from moderate exercise.
A study of 5,500 women found that smokers had shorter careers, lower pay, and more disciplinary actions than non-smokers. Smokers were also more likely to be discharged for medical or behavioral reasons.
Research suggests sweat can carry hepatitis B virus, potentially transmitting the infection during contact sports. The study found that 13% of Olympic wrestlers had hidden or occult HBV infection and 11% had particles of the virus in their sweat.
Research tracked over 3,000 participants from birth to age 53 and found that rapid height gain before 2 and after 15 lowered 'bad' cholesterol. Higher body fat and weight gain were associated with higher total cholesterol levels.
Experts call for universal rules for doctors responding to public emergencies, citing concerns about legal implications and lack of specialized training. The 'Good Samaritan' law is deemed inadequate, with no guarantee against malpractice claims or lawsuits.
Research reveals Gypsies' and Travellers have higher rates of long-term illnesses, mobility issues, and pain, with poorer mental health outcomes. Policies to address health inequalities have not met their needs, highlighting the need for targeted support.
A breath test using a color sensor can detect lung cancer with moderate accuracy in early stages, showing promise for non-invasive screening. The test detects changes in volatile organic compounds produced by lung cancer cells.
A case study reports a 36-year-old bodybuilder developing diabetes after using growth hormone and anabolic steroids for extended periods. Regular blood sugar checks are urged for individuals taking high doses of growth hormone to prevent similar cases.
A study of 620 people with gastroenteritis found that those who developed IBS were more likely to experience high stress, anxiety, and perfectionism. Cognitive behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment for this condition, which affects up to 15% of adults in industrialised countries.
Research reveals that teenagers are more fearful of losing their sight than lung cancer or stroke, yet only a small percentage understand the link between smoking and blindness. The study found that just 5% of respondents correctly identified the risk, with even fewer among smokers.
A study of European research ethics committees found that while some had informal rules for gender diversity, few had formal requirements to ensure equal representation of both sexes. Despite EU policy on gender equality in health research, limited attention was paid to these issues.
Research reveals a link between doctors' personal fear of death and their willingness to hasten life-sustaining treatment in severely disabled newborns. One in three specialists use painkillers to relieve suffering without intending to hasten death, while over three-quarters would do so if further treatment is deemed futile.
A large cohort study in the UK finds that British women's binge drinking habits are defined by their age and education level. Women with higher education tend to reduce their binge drinking as they age, while those with lower education levels increase their binge drinking risk, particularly after the age of 40.
Research in Finland found that enforced redundancies boost mental health problems among those who keep their jobs, with men being 64% more likely to be prescribed psychotropic drugs than those without job losses. Women working in downsized organizations were 12% more likely to receive these prescriptions.
A survey of 127 specialist registrars reveals that nearly a third view working with patients directly in community settings as a bad development. The respondents felt poorly prepared to meet the challenge and wanted additional training, but only half believed this would improve their job prospects.
Research reveals IBD increases risk of premature birth and low birthweight by almost twice, while also boosting caesarean section rates and congenital defects
A small study found that fish oil supplements during pregnancy improve toddlers' hand-eye coordination, with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids linked to better performance. The findings suggest that relatively high doses of omega-3 rich fish oil supplements have no adverse effects on neurodevelopment or growth.
Research casts doubt on organophosphate poisoning as cause of Gulf War Syndrome depression, suggesting genetic factors are more likely to cause symptoms. Studies show that individuals with specific gene variants, such as the PON1 Q192R gene, are more prone to depression.
The study found that the number of firearm-related deaths dropped by at least 6% after the law took effect, with a decrease in average annual suicides from 491 to 246. The legislation also led to a significant decline in homicides and overall homicide rates fell by almost 2.5% per year.
A nationwide study reveals that over 500 sudden unexplained cardiac deaths occur annually in England, mostly among young men. The researchers found that only a third of cases were correctly identified as Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS), with most victims having no prior heart history or symptoms.
Research reveals that almost 16% of all drivers stopped and tested under suspicion of driving under the influence would test positive for drugs. Drivers who were under the legal limit for alcohol but still tested positive for drugs were more likely to be taking a cocktail of substances.
Research on violent assaults found that feet were the most dangerous bodily weapon, causing more severe injuries than sharp objects. Kicking was particularly hazardous, leading to more severe injuries than using sharp objects.
Research in Birmingham, UK found that children who walked less were more likely to worry about strangers, lack of local parks, and prefer car travel. Higher walking levels correlated with perceptions of heavy traffic, yet these views didn't deter kids from walking.
Research published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that women with rheumatoid arthritis have a significantly lower chance of entering remission compared to men. After two and five years, approximately 32% and 31% of women were in remission respectively, compared to 48% and 52% of men.
A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that smokers are more likely to experience severe cartilage loss and knee pain due to osteoarthritis. Smokers were also significantly more likely to report greater pain severity than non-smokers.
Chronic kidney disease affects a significant portion of the UK population, particularly elderly individuals taking multiple medications. Healthcare professionals require specific guidance on using drugs that can cause or be altered by kidney disease, as 'use with caution' advice is often insufficient.
A recent study published in Tobacco Control found that halving daily cigarette consumption has no significant health benefits. Among the participants who cut back on their smoking, women actually had higher death rates from all causes combined than heavy smokers.
A study of over 3,000 mothers and their children found that pregnant smokers were almost three times as likely to have regular-smoking offspring by age 14. Children whose mothers resumed smoking after pregnancy had similar smoking patterns, suggesting a direct link between maternal smoking during pregnancy and child's smoking habit.
A recent analysis of tobacco industry defense strategies reveals a shift in arguments as companies publicly admitted to smoking causing cancer. The study found that the industry initially claimed a lack of scientific proof and shifted its focus to mitigating factors and plaintiff free will as public admissions increased.
A study analyzing hair samples from over 8,000 individuals found that babies can be exposed to crystal meth in the womb, with wide-ranging levels detected in both mothers' and newborns' hair. The findings suggest restricted fetal growth and developmental problems, highlighting the need for increased awareness and safety measures.
Research suggests women testing negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are still at higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Regular screening from age 35/40 is recommended due to genetic modifier genes, increasing their risk by three times that of the general population.
A large study found that regular physical activity can reduce the likelihood of developing age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%. Participants with active lifestyles were less likely to develop the condition, with regular walkers experiencing a 30% lower risk.
A large germline deletion in the Chek2 kinase gene is associated with an almost doubled risk of prostate cancer. The study found this deletion in 24% of healthy people and 0.8% of diagnosed patients from Poland, suggesting a higher prevalence among men from eastern Europe.
A recent study highlights the need for increased female representation in clinical drug trials, as acknowledged gender differences in treatment effectiveness have not been adequately addressed. The European Medicines Agency's policies have been criticized for failing to develop gender-specific guidelines or strategies.
Researchers link stress to early puberty, citing public health consequences including poor health, unprotected sex, substance abuse, and self-harm. The authors advocate for society to recognize the importance of addressing earlier puberty with accurate information.
Shorter nightly sleep in childhood may be a contributing factor to the growing obesity epidemic. Research suggests that insufficient sleep can disrupt normal metabolism and increase the risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease.
A survey of over 2500 men found that almost half who paid for sex had a current partner. Unprotected oral sex was twice as common among those who paid locally, highlighting its role in transmission of STIs.
A population-based study found that people with hand osteoarthritis had significantly shorter white cell telomere lengths compared to those without the disease. Telomere length was also associated with the severity of osteoarthritis, suggesting a link between biological ageing and degenerative inflammatory bone disease.
A US survey of obstetricians and gynecologists found that one in three doctors believe free drug samples impact their prescribing choices. More than half of respondents felt it was ethical to accept free samples or lucrative consultancy offers from pharmaceutical companies.
A UK case control study found that living near heavy industry sites for over 25 years increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Women living in areas with high rates of poverty and industrial activity were more likely to develop the disease.
Research published in Gut found that female liver transplant recipients live an average of 22 years after the procedure, compared to 18 years for men. The study analyzed data from over 2,700 patients and found that younger people tend to have longer life expectancy but also lose more years of life due to transplantation.
Research found that a lower second-to-fourth finger ratio is linked to higher athletic achievement in women, particularly in running and team sports like soccer and tennis. The study of 607 female twins suggests that this finger ratio may be influenced by sex hormones and genetic factors.
A study published in Gut found that babies with low birthweight are at a higher risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome. The research, which analyzed data from 3334 twin pairs, suggests that genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of IBS.
A study found that lobbing raw eggs at people as a prank can result in blunt ocular trauma, leading to injuries such as tears, bruising, and raised internal pressure. In some cases, this can cause permanent loss of eyesight.
A review of published research suggests that cigarette smoking increases the risk of contracting HIV and progressing to AIDS. The study found that five out of six studies concluded smokers were more likely to become HIV positive, with varying risks ranging from 60% to tripling.
Research published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that high hourly air pollution levels significantly increase the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. The study analyzed data from 13 major urban areas in Japan and found a doubling of stroke risk when particulate matter levels exceeded 200 ug/m3 two hours before death.