Public research university in London; second-largest by enrolment in the UK; founding member of the University of London
Researchers have published long-term data showing that very high blood levels of the tau marker p‑tau217 predict a 38% risk of cognitive impairment within five years and 78% within ten. Trials are using the test to recruit volunteers while Scotland has started a primary‑care rollout of p‑tau testing to study real‑world use.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage has struck the Moon near Einstein Crater at about 5,400 mph, carving a new crater and launching a dust plume. South Korea’s Danuri orbiter has photographed the site and released images. NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is scheduled to image the impact next week while scientists begin analysing ejecta and crater formation.
Labour has moved into a polling lead amid a flurry of policy announcements by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, along with investigations surrounding Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Multiple polls show Labour ahead or tied with Reform, with regional gains in Greater Manchester. The mix of cost-of-living measures and waivers is shaping voter sentiment as byelections unfold.
A wave of heat and wildfires across Europe and beyond has accelerated, prompting evacuations and sparking political debate on climate policy. Readers are updated on the latest developments, including shifting opinions, policy responses, and the urgent need for adaptation alongside emission cuts.
UK parents Maisie and Josh traveled with their unborn son Theo to Texas for a groundbreaking in-womb procedure to repair complex gastroschisis. The trial, led by foetal and paediatric surgeons, aims to shift treatment before birth. Theo was delivered healthy in Texas and is doing remarkably well; if successful, the UK could offer the procedure to more patients.
Moderna has won FDA approval for its mRNA flu vaccine mFlusiva for adults 50–64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and older. The decision follows a contentious review earlier this year, a unanimous advisory panel recommendation in June and political disputes inside US health agencies over mRNA vaccines. Retail availability is expected in coming weeks.
A wave of studies finds that AI analysis of mammograms can identify cardiovascular risks in women, including hypertension, coronary heart disease and stroke, alongside breast cancer screening. Researchers say mammograms could become a dual-purpose tool for early cardiovascular risk detection, prompting earlier intervention.
Visitors to Snowdon have faced long queues amid hot weather and rising numbers. Wardens are urging patience for safety and to protect the landscape. Reports from BBC, The Guardian and New York Post show a mix of reactions and concerns about inclusivity, safety and how best to access popular outdoor spaces.
The UK has established an AI partnership with Ukraine to access the Avengers AI Lab database. The goal is to train models that strengthen national security and protect critical infrastructure, with pilots at defence sites and potential rollouts to airports, prisons, railways and energy facilities.
Experts from University College London and MHRA have said there is no credible evidence that ethylene oxide–sterilised swabs used in cervical screening endanger patients. The claim on social media about cancer risk has been debunked. Cervical cancer diagnoses in the UK remain around 3,000 annually, and screening uptake has fallen to 66% of eligible women as of 2024.
A Norfolk meadow has transformed from an oilseed rape monoculture to a biodiverse wildflower habitat after a simple annual hay cut, without reseeding or deep ploughing. More than 150 species are recorded, including orchids, hoverflies and butterflies, suggesting nature can restore flower-rich meadows with minimal intervention.
A large UK Biobank study finds hormone therapy use is associated with a lower risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. Benefits vary by age at initiation and genetic factors; observational data limits causal conclusions.
The FDA has approved daraxonrasib, sold as Rasonque by Revolution Medicines, for adults with previously treated or ineligible metastatic pancreatic cancer. Clinical trials have shown median survival extended to about 13.2 months versus roughly 6.7 months with chemotherapy. The drug will be available in the US with a roughly $39,800 monthly list price and expanded-access programmes have already treated thousands.
A glacial collapse on 26 August has produced torrent floods that have killed more than 1,395 people and left over 5,600 missing across Nepal and Tibet. Rescue teams have been recovering bodies, searching buried hydropower tunnels and remote villages, and racing to control newly formed barrier lakes that are threatening further flooding and hampering access.
UK researchers have developed nitinol-based super-elastic cranial springs for severe craniosynostosis, enabling less invasive skull reshaping in children. Rory Potter becomes the first patient to receive the customized springs, with follow-up showing rapid recovery and a reduced need for future surgery. The approach combines CT-guided modelling with bespoke devices at Great Ormond Street Hospital and UCL.
The UN General Assembly has endorsed a non-binding move to shift from the Mercator projection to the Equal Earth map to better reflect continental sizes. The vote saw 164 members in favour with the United States abstaining or opposing; several countries express concerns about disputed territories and implications for regional shading.
The world faces a record-breaking El Niño that is likely to bring extreme weather patterns. The UK government is advising households to prepare for supply disruptions, with Environment Secretary Angela Eagle highlighting the need for resilience as droughts, floods and cyber threats threaten food security.
The UN General Assembly has voted 164–1 to encourage use of equal-area map projections, led by Togo and backed by the African Union. The non-binding resolution recommends the Equal Earth projection for schools, governments and tech companies. The United States cast the sole vote against; six states abstained.
MPs are back in the House of Commons facing the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Supporters argue it offers dying adults a choice with safeguards, while opponents warn of risks to vulnerable people. The government remains neutral. A pivotal vote is expected this Friday, with the outcome likely to hinge on turnout and the Lords’ future role.
PISA 2025 data show England and some UK nations performing well in science, with Reading and Maths trailing in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. England leads in science; Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland trail in reading and maths. A global trend shows declines in reading proficiency, linked to digital distraction and shifting reading habits.
Viewers weigh in on returning reality formats, with comments about authenticity and audience expectations. The Guardian contributors argue the latest series has lost its edge, favoring a polished, post-show influencer path over distinctive storytelling.
Israel has ordered the closure of the UK consulate in East Jerusalem after Britain announced sanctions on settlement goods and firms. London has said the building will remain a UK Mission and has warned it may expel Israeli diplomats if Israel forces the consulate to close. Talks and a quiet UK security adviser visit have not resolved the dispute ahead of Thursday's deadline.
The Guardian reports a government review has proposed triaging ADHD patients to a needs-based system, offering targeted support without necessarily requiring a formal diagnosis. The plan aims to relieve NHS waiting lists and focus help on those most in need, while raising concerns about potential rationing of care.
A government-ordered review led by Professor Peter Fonagy warns that autism and ADHD overdiagnosis risk is rising, while genuine mental illness has increased among youth. The report calls for reform of access to care, tighter regulation of private assessment firms, and faster supports for anxiety, depression and related conditions.