Health
New study reveals health risks for radiation workers
The risk of developing cancer among radiation workers increases with the dose of ionising radiation they are exposed to, according to a study by the Health Protection Agency published today in the British Journal of Cancer. The observed cancer risks are consistent with the international scientific consensus on radiation protection.
New screening test benefits mums-to-be in Yeovil
Mums-to-be are benefiting from a new screening service which is now available at Yeovil District Hospital. All mums who book for care in the ‘Best Performing’ maternity unit in Yeovil District Hospital’s Women’s Hospital are now offered the combined test, which was previously only offered privately, for screening Down’s Syndrome from their 11th week of pregnancy. This new combined test replaces the triple blood test.
Help in the high street for Taunton smokers
Taunton and Somerset smokers who want to quit the habit will have help in the High Street from this month, as the county’s first NHS Stop Smoking Shop opens in Taunton. It’s just one of the new ideas from Somerset’s NHS Stop Smoking Service to provide free and easy access to friendly, expert stop smoking advice and support for anyone ready and willing to quit.
Angina: New drug gets to the heart of the problem
A compound designed to prevent chest pains in heart patients has shown promising results in animal studies, say scientists.
Simple steps to stay healthy in the cold weather
With the cold weather set to continue, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Jane Wilkinson, is reminding people of simple steps to stay safe and well during this cold weather.
Scratch-card to show drinkers future alcohol harm
Is your luck running out in the drinking lotto? A new scratch card could reveal your risk of developing an alcohol related illness in the future from your drinking habits today. A new scratch card could reveal your risk of developing an alcohol related illness in the future from your drinking habits today.
One person diagnosed with diabetes every three minutes
One person is diagnosed with diabetes every three minutes* in the UK, according to new figures from Diabetes UK. The leading health charity, which has released the shocking statistic to mark its 75th Anniversary, says the number of people diagnosed with the condition is growing faster than ever.
Cancer sufferer gives birthday money to charity
Five years ago, the outlook was bleak for Joyce Southall. After being diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma aged 65, her family didn’t think she would make it to her next birthday. But against all odds, Joyce from Coven, Wolverhampton turned 70 last month and celebrated the milestone with a big birthday bash.
New Year's Resolutions could be bad for your mental health
"New year, new you" is a popular phrase, but in the dawn of 2009, leading mental health charity Mind is urging people not to feel obliged to make New Year's resolutions as they can be bad for your mental health.
Make 2009 the year of donation
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is calling on the public to mark the year ahead with a commitment to donation by giving blood and signing up on the NHS Organ Donor Register.
HPV Vaccination achieves high coverage rate
More than 70 per cent of 12-13 year old girls have already had their first HPV (human papilloma virus) jab since the vaccination campaign started in September, Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo announced today. This figure will rise as more results come in.
eBay to clamp down on illegal online Botox promotions
eBay has agreed to remove illegal Botox adverts from its popular website after Which? discovered over 240 instances of unlawful advertising of the product in just five days. Sixteen companies and individuals were found advertising the prescription only medicine to the public, with many unaware they were breaking the law.
Beat your New Year blues
With the New Year upon us there isn’t a better time to make some healthy changes and get in shape. But the cold wet weather isn’t always conducive to getting out there, as muscles and joints simply say no.
Almost half of men are worried about their weight
Making a New Year resolution and improving your life, and your looks is not the exclusive right of the young according to research by Saga Magazine. Losing weight and seeing more of the world are at the top of the agenda for over 50s in 2009.
‘Man flu doesn't exist’ says new research
It's official man flu doesn't exist! But according to new research it should be renamed woman flu as the fairer sex turn out to be the worst winter whingers. Men are less likely to create a fuss or crave attention when they fall ill and it is in fact women who are the biggest moaners. Most admit to exaggerating their cold and flu symptoms just for attention or to get a day off work.