Health
Hospital managers to blame for MRSA, say eight out of 10 Brits
On the day that all NHS hospitals should have completed a 'deep clean' in an effort by the Department of Health to tackle superbugs, new research shows that the British public lays the blame for MRSA squarely at the feet of hospital managers, rather than cleaners, doctors, patients or visitors.
Poor sanitation threatens public health in Africa
Sixty-two percent of Africans do not have access to an improved sanitation facility - a proper toilet - which separates human waste from human contact, according to the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and Sanitation.
Social networking site launches for cancer sufferers
Cancerbackup, the information and support charity, has launched the first online cancer social network in the UK at Whatnow.org.uk. Called What Now? because that’s the first question you ask when diagnosed with cancer, the website provides people affected by cancer with an unprecedented ability to connect, communicate and exchange information with one another.
Food cravings has even the celebs baffled
Reports this week revealed that pregnant Cate Blanchett is experiencing cravings for pickles and ice cream, making her one of the estimated 68% of pregnant women experiencing similar unusual food hankerings.
£42 million for research into children's health
Childhood obesity, infant mortality and keeping children safe in the home are three areas of research which will benefit from £42 million of government funding, it’s been announced.
60,000 new doctors will target problem drinkers
Sixty thousand new doctors will be specifically trained in the next ten years to identify and treat people who are drinking too much. Medical schools have been allocated £650,000 to do a scoping exercise next financial year to see how alcohol misuse training can be added to the curriculum.
£150,000 boost for national breastfeeding helpline
A new national breastfeeding helpline - backed by £150,000 a year - that will provide practical support and information to the 450,000 breast feeding mothers in England, was launched by Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo this month.
Think carefully before heading for sun, sea and scalpels
Almost one in five medical tourists have run into problems after travelling abroad for treatment, says Which?
18th March is the death of the diet day
The Black Book of Hollywood Diet Secrets may be one of 2008’s hotly anticipated book releases, but it seems it’s our obsession with A-listers rather than their fad diets that is piquing our interest, as the majority of British women’s diet and fitness plans for 2008 were long-term lifestyle changes rather than short-term fixes.
Study shows UK hearts are five years older than owners
The average middle aged adult's heart is five years older than its owner according to new research released by Lloydspharmacy. Based on an analysis of heart health checks conducted at branches of Lloydspharmacy, and using a protocol developed by Unilever and Boston University, the study shows that people's hearts are aging faster than they should.
Probiotics could prevent holiday tummy
'Tums on the run’ is a classic holiday tale. If you catch a holiday bug, it can literally upset your longed-for summer break. With up to 50% of holidaymakers suffering from traveller’s diarrhoea each year, chances are that you have been the victim of such an experience.
Cold front set to perk up breast treatment
Breakthrough ice technology developed by a British company means that many thousands of women with non-cancerous breast tumours can now be successfully treated in their doctors surgery rather than having to endure a hospital operation.
Shape up for life
Being in ‘great shape’ is to glow with health, have clear skin, bright eyes and a spring in your step. You are strong and resilient. All these outward signs of being in shape start from the inside.
Will you take on the Alcohol-Free Challenge?
Drinkers are being encouraged to cut their booze consumption during Alcohol-Free Week. The week starts on Wednesday 6 February 2008 to coincide with the season of Lent when, traditionally, religious observers abstain from some indulgence such as drinking alcohol.
Valentine's – Don't love the booze more than your partner
The Linwood Group, one of the UK's leading alcohol treatment organisations, is reminding people that Valentine's Day is all about hearts and flowers and not an excuse for an alcohol fuelled evening out.