A medical condition caused by disrupted blood flow to the brain
England’s children’s mental health referrals have surpassed 1 million for 2024-25, a rise driven by anxiety and suspected autism. Wait times remain long, with more than 60,000 waiting over two years. The report calls for joined-up services across health, education and social care to meet demand.
A Lancet study across seven wealthy countries shows that in adults over 40 with obesity, blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol have declined to levels similar to those of normal-weight peers, largely due to statins and other heart drugs. The benefit is strongest among those aged 60 and above; younger obese adults still face higher risk. The research underlines the role of statins in narrowing risk gaps while cautioning that obesity remains a broader health concern.
The government has introduced a plan to ban the sale of energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre to under‑16s in England, with enforcement by local authorities and fines of up to £2,500 for retailers. The move aims to curb health risks and improve children’s wellbeing, following a public consultation that received broad support.
A Taiwan study finds that when one spouse develops dementia, the other is more likely to receive the same diagnosis. Relative risk is 74% higher for women and 69% for men, with five-year absolute risks of 6.5% and 9.2% respectively.
Northern Ireland is considering measures to curb obesity by restricting where unhealthy foods are placed in shops and online, mirroring policies in England and Wales. The Department of Health and the FSA have launched a consultation, arguing that price, placement and marketing influence purchases and contribute to obesity. Critics warn about effects on low-income families.
A review of nearly 1,900 studies involving over 480,000 people finds that climbing stairs is associated with lower mortality from cardiovascular disease and all causes. Experts caution the results show association, not proof of causation, and note six flights a day may offer the greatest benefit.
New observational data suggests Shingrix vaccination in older adults is associated with lower cardiovascular risk and reduced dementia incidence over multi-year follow-ups. Studies compare Shingrix to Zostavax and find reductions in heart disease, stroke, and dementia, with stronger signals in men for heart outcomes.
A Berlin-led study presented at the ESC Congress finds higher blood levels of xylitol are associated with increased risk of major cardiovascular events. The association is dose-dependent and persists across age and risk factors, prompting calls for further research.
A seven-year study of about 41,000 adults in South Korea finds that modest weekend catch-up sleep—about 1 hour 27 minutes—reduces the risk of high blood pressure by up to 9%, with larger benefits for physically inactive individuals. Excessive weekend sleep (>4 hours) may offset gains. Findings were presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Munich.
Sen. John Fetterman has recorded a one-minute video introducing Republican Sen. Dave McCormick at the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, praising McCormick and saying he will "work with President Trump to fight and defend the steel way of life." The cameo has deepened Democratic concerns about Fettermans party loyalty and revived talk of a possible party switch before 2028.