Weekly peer‑reviewed medical journal with global impact since 1823
A two-year Latin American trial has shown that older adults at risk of dementia who followed a structured lifestyle program—combining supervised exercise, brain-healthy diet guidance, cognitive training, and social activity—outperformed a control group in cognition, memory, and processing speed.
USC researchers have found that young non-smokers with high-quality diets may have a higher incidence of early-onset lung cancer. The study analyzes 187 patients under 50 and links higher Healthy Eating Index scores to cancer biology that differs from smoking-related cases. Researchers point to possible pesticide exposure as a leading theory while noting ongoing questions.
A collection of Health and fitness pieces show athletes and clinicians emphasising consistent, moderate activity, daily steps, and time-efficient workouts as keys to long-term heart health and wellbeing.
A new study links bee pollination to more than 20% of residents’ vitamin intake and 44% of farming income in 10 Jumla villages, highlighting pollinators’ vital role in food security amid isolation and poverty.
New studies and reports show fertility rates falling globally, with India and China posting notable declines. Experts warn aging populations and policy responses will shape the coming decades. The US sees infant mortality trends stabilize, while debates on contraception, childcare, and housing costs continue.
A low-cost plastic drape that measures blood loss has dramatically reduced postpartum hemorrhage outcomes in trials across Africa, enabling earlier treatment. The MOTIVE treatment bundle, including uterine massage and IV fluids, has driven a 60% drop in severe outcomes in vaginal births. Uganda and other countries are expanding blood-availability systems to ensure timely transfusions.
A QMUL-led Lancet study shows the HPV vaccine has dramatically reduced cervical cancer deaths among 20-24-year-olds in England from 2020–2024. England also sees an 80% fall in deaths in 2015–2019 for this age group. Yet uptake gaps threaten future gains as vaccination rates fall in parts of the country.
Heat waves have intensified health risks, worsening heart and kidney conditions, triggering heat exhaustion, and contributing to inflammatory issues. Experts urge hydration, shade, and cooling measures as high temperatures persist and climate change drives higher heat.
A record heatwave across Europe is highlighting stark inequalities, with low-income residents facing extreme indoor heat, limited cooling options, and greater health risks. Reports show attic homes in Paris and heat-stressed housing across several countries, underlining the need for policy action as temperatures stay high.
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.
A wave of hot weather has triggered new warnings about how heat changes physiology and mood. Experts say heat triggers vascular changes, dehydration risk, and cognitive and mood shifts, with women facing particular risks. Readers are advised to stay hydrated, avoid peak heat, and monitor vulnerable groups.