A study of London adolescents found long-term exposure to PM2.5 is associated with higher blood pressure, particularly in girls. Exposure to high levels of nitrogen dioxide was also linked to lower blood pressure in this group.
A study published in Women and Birth found that seeing the same midwives throughout the perinatal period makes a substantial difference to a woman's experience of care. The continuity of care model improves trust, advocacy, access, and consistency of care for high-risk mothers, reducing anxiety and stress.
Researchers developed a blood-based test that predicts Alzheimer's disease risk by analyzing changes in brain cell growth and division. The study found that the body's circulatory system can modulate the formation of new brain cells, and that this process occurs 3.5 years before a clinical diagnosis.
A recent UK trial found that treating patients with transplant-rejecting antibodies did not reduce transplant failure rates. The OuTSMART trial tested two groups of over 2000 transplant patients and found no significant difference in failure rates between those who received oral drugs and those who followed standard care.
A study published in Journal of Hepatology found that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can cause a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain and inflammation to brain tissue. The research identified Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1) as a potential therapeutic target for protecting against NAFLD-induced brain dysfunction.
Exposure to traffic-related air pollution linked to an increased risk of having two or more physical and mental health conditions. Participants exposed to higher concentrations of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide had a greater risk of developing multiple long-term health conditions.
A new hallmark of ALS has been identified, revealing that loss of the RNA processing protein SFPQ leads to motor neuron degeneration. Defective mRNAs accumulate in axons and interfere with normal function, pointing to a possible new target for therapy.
A new study found that long-term exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease in teenagers. The review of eight studies involving over 15,000 adolescents aged 12 and above found a significant association between air pollution and rising diastolic blood pressure.
New research from King's College London found increasing CBD content in cannabis does not significantly change the effects of THC on cognitive performance or psychotic symptoms. The study suggests that choosing cannabis with higher CBD:THC ratios may be safer due to lower THC levels, but CBD has no impact on intoxication quality.
A study by King's College London found a significant correlation between deaths due to indoor household pollution and eclampsia rates. The researchers evaluated over 2,690 cases of eclampsia in eight low- and middle-income countries and discovered that indoor cooking with solid fuels increases the risk of adverse birth outcomes.
A study by King's College London found that the number of new diagnoses of rheumatoid arthritis fell by 20% during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating a potential substantial burden of undiagnosed patients. In contrast, for those diagnosed during the pandemic, there were no delays in starting treatment.
A multicentre clinical trial found that a single dose of COMP360 psilocybin significantly reduced depression symptoms in participants with treatment-resistant depression. The study, involving 233 participants, showed improved outcomes for those receiving the 25mg dose compared to the control group.
A study found that seeing or hearing birds is associated with improved mental wellbeing in both healthy people and those with depression. The link between birdlife and mental health was not explained by environmental factors.
A lifestyle intervention of diet and exercise in pregnant women with obesity reduced the risk of cardiac remodelling in 3-year-old children. The study found that these changes were associated with a lower risk of future cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at King's College London found that eating almonds increases butyrate production, promoting gut health and potentially alleviating constipation. The study also showed improved nutrient intake and a positive impact on the gut microbiome.
Research links COVID-19 symptoms to poor mental health and lower life satisfaction in people of all ages, with those over 50 showing strongest association. The study, combining data from 11 UK longitudinal studies, highlights the need for ongoing support after infection.
Researchers found that blood from COVID-19 patients with delirium causes an increase in cell death and a decrease in new brain cells, indicating a key role for inflammatory proteins. This understanding could help inform treatments to reduce symptoms of confusion and disorientation.
A recent study found that telemental health can be effective in reducing treatment gaps and improving access to mental health care, especially for marginalized groups. However, it is crucial to consider individual preferences, circumstances, and technological access when implementing this approach.
A new study found that arbitrary age limits and rules on genetic testing for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) could be missed, leading to thousands of potential cases going undetected. The researchers argue that genetic testing should be open to all patients with ALS, regardless of age or family history.
Researchers have discovered immune cell types that could be targeted to develop specific immunotherapies in chemotherapy-resistant breast cancers. The study found that certain immune cells, such as neutrophils and natural killer cells, were unable to effectively fight cancer cells due to gene expression changes.
Research confirms ethnicity as a key risk factor for kidney disease in people with Type 1 diabetes, particularly among African-Caribbean individuals. The study found nearly 60% greater risk of advanced kidney disease in this population.
A study by King's College London found that visiting canals and rivers has a positive association with mental wellbeing, feeling happy, and social inclusion. The combination of blue and green space with wildlife is believed to contribute to these benefits.
Scientists have discovered three proteins with therapeutic potential to prevent cardiac damage and preserve cardiac function after a heart attack. The proteins, Chrdl1, Fam3c, and Fam3b, were identified through an innovative technology called FunSel that screens human proteins for protective effects.
Severe breathlessness in COVID patients is a signal for quicker referral to palliative care, new research suggests. Palliative care improves symptoms and quality of life without affecting survival.
A new study surveyed 190 patients and 68 carers in the UK, revealing that patients prefer breathlessness services offered in hospital outpatient clinics or at home. The research found that these services improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs, with estimated savings ranging from £663 to £5086 per person.
Researchers at King's College London discovered nine genes associated with metabolic disease risk in fat tissue. The study found that diet can affect belly fat accumulation through epigenetic changes.
Researchers at King's College London have created a highly accurate non-invasive liquid biopsy test for major liver diseases, including NASH and liver fibrosis. The test uses two circulating proteins to detect the diseases with a high sensitivity and specificity rate.
New research from King's College London found that members of the British Armed Forces who were physically injured while fighting in Afghanistan are more likely to experience poor mental health, including depression and PTSD. The study also suggests that the type of injury sustained can influence the overall outcome.
Researchers from King's College London found that long COVID risk is less likely during the Omicron period, especially in younger age groups and after vaccination. The study analyzed data from the ZOE COVID Symptom study app and reported a 20-50% lower odds of experiencing long COVID.
A study of 1.3 million women in England found that screening every five years is as effective as three-year intervals for those with a negative HPV screen, and may even prevent more cancers. The study provides reassurance to women aged 24-49 who test negative for HPV.
A new UK study has found that only one in three patients with gout were prescribed preventative medication within a year of diagnosis, indicating poor care quality. The study also revealed that just one in six patients achieved the target blood urate level recommended by the British Society for Rheumatology.
Researchers have identified 10 new genes linked to hearing loss, casting doubt on the understanding that age-related hearing impairment originates mainly from sensory hair cells. The study suggests that the stria vascularis, a part of the cochlea in the ear, is a new target for treatments to help people with hearing loss.
Pre-eclampsia affects up to 8% of women during their lifetime, causing high blood pressure and organ damage. The King's College London review provides a state-of-the-art summary of current knowledge and best practices for caring for women with pre-eclampsia.
A new study of over 111,000 adolescents aged 11-17 found that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) significantly increased the risk of self-harm. Additionally, school absence was also associated with a three-fold higher risk of self-harm. These findings suggest that early identification and...
A new study published in the Journal of Medical Screening found that over half of eligible women (51.4%) prefer self-sampling for cervical cancer screening, as it addresses concerns about embarrassment and provides more flexibility. The study also suggests that many regular screeners may switch to self-sampling if offered the option.
A study of 1001 parents found that financial incentives and penalties were the most influential factors in their decisions. Parents preferred schemes offering direct financial rewards, compensation schemes, and mandated vaccinations for children over two years old.
A clinical trial found that daily cranberry consumption improved flow-mediated dilation, a biomarker of cardiovascular disease risk, in healthy men. Cranberries' unique proanthocyanidins may play an important role in preventing cardiovascular disease.
A new study found a causal link between blood group and severe COVID-19, identifying six proteins that may increase the risk of hospitalization or respiratory support/death. Meanwhile, eight proteins were linked to protection against these outcomes. The research suggests potential new targets for treatments.
A recent study published in Nature Medicine has confirmed the link between a healthy gut microbiome and the response to cancer immunotherapy. The study found that certain bacterial species, such as Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum, Roseburia spp., and Akkermansia muciniphila, are associated with a better immune response.
Researchers developed a deep learning framework that can accurately flag abnormalities in routine head MRI scans, prioritizing resources for critical cases. The model reduced wait times for reports from 28 days to 14 days and from 9 days to 5 days, enabling real-time applications.
Severe COVID-19 compromises gut health by disrupting Peyer's Patches, a key component of the immune system that maintains healthy intestinal microbial populations. This disruption can lead to reduced microbial diversity, or dysbiosis.
A new study has found a potential predictor for perimenopause in the form of IgG glycome composition, which may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options. The study analyzed nearly 2000 women over 15 years and discovered changes in the IgG glycome that occur rapidly during menopause.
The study proposes essential design features for mechanical ventilators to meet demand in low- and middle-income countries. A small battery, air compressor, gas cylinder or oxygen concentrator are necessary components to address electricity supply issues and make ventilators more sustainable.
A new study from King's College London found that lonely teenagers are at a greater risk of poor educational outcomes and negative mental health issues. Participants who experienced loneliness during early adolescence were more likely to finish school with lower grades and experience problems such as depression and anxiety by age 18.
A virtual reality 'Shopping Task' has been developed to measure cognition and assess age-related decline. The study found that the immersive environment engaged key brain structures, including the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex.
Researchers found that inhaling heparin improves breathing and oxygen levels in 70% of COVID-19 patients, with the drug also showing anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-coagulant effects. This low-cost treatment could provide a safe and effective option for patients in poorer countries where vaccination is challenging.
Researchers from King's College London discovered how obesity affects the heart's shape and structure in children, leading to potential future cardiovascular risks. The study used data from over 2,600 children aged 10, showing significant changes at a BMI of 19.
Researchers at King's College London found that a brain chemical called GABA regulates visual processing in autistic people. Activating GABA targets with the drug arbaclofen improves visual processing, suggesting potential new interventions for autism.
A study published in Nature has developed a new tool to predict pre-eclampsia by analyzing genetic material in a single blood sample. The test uses machine learning and sequencing approaches to identify molecular profiles that signal fetal development and pregnancy progression, allowing for earlier detection of complications.
Researchers found that psilocybin doses of 10mg or 25mg administered simultaneously to up to six participants had no adverse effects. The study also showed promise for treating treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.