Three Towns Forum
Members' Lounge => Science and Technology => Topic started by: Ian on April 09, 2011, 09:52:12 am
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For anything about healthy or unhealthy issues
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Heavy beer drinkers who have a specific genetic variant in the cluster of three genes that metabolize alcohol are at significantly higher risk of developing non-cardia gastric cancer, according to research presented at the AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011, held April 2-6.
Study results also showed that the same risk is also elevated (but not as significantly) for heavy beer drinkers who do not have the variant, known as rs1230025, and for non-drinkers who have rs1230025 or rs283411.
Full article here (http://www.laboratoryequipment.com/News-gene-in-heavy-beer-drinkers-increases-cancer-risk-040811.aspx?xmlmenuid=51)
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It seems we've been getting conflicting evidence about alcohol intake and health for years. The past ten years however ,have seen new and more reliable methods of research emerge, in which vast tracts of data from previous projects are being correlated and analysed.
In the latest instance researchers concluded that drinking above recommended alcohol limits was likely to be responsible for the majority of cancer cases linked to alcohol, although for some people even a small consumption may increase the risk.
They analysed data from eight European countries, involving more than 360,000 men and women who were aged between 35 and 70 at the beginning of the study.
The research is part of the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer, one of the largest ever studies into the links between diet and cancer.
Some 17 per cent of bowel cancers in men were linked to drinking, as were 4 per cent of cases in women. And 5 per cent of cases of breast cancer in women were also linked to drinking, the study showed. Overall, more than 18 per cent of cancers in men were down to drinking more than 24g of alcohol a day. In women, 4 per cent of cancers were due to drinking more than 12g of alcohol daily.
Essentially, it's cancers of the cancers of the liver, female breast, bowel, and upper digestive tract which are involved, while alcohol also plays a role in the development of oral cancers, including cancer of the pharynx and larynx. In North Wales, there has been a significant rise in cases of pharyngeal cancers over the past few years.
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Every time that I read another article about the dangers of drinking, and the health problems that I am storing up..it makes me want to immediately give up......READING!
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_))*
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Around 4,000 babies die unexpectedly in the last months of pregnancy or during labour every year in the UK – one of the highest rates of stillbirth in Europe, according to a major new series of reports by the Lancet.
The medical journal also explodes the popular assumption that a stillborn baby had something wrong with it and "was never meant to be". In fact, only 5% of the 2.6 million babies stillborn worldwide in 2009 had a congenital abnormality.
Even in the UK, stillbirth is a risk for healthy women with normal pregnancies, yet it is little discussed. A third of stillbirths are unexplained here, although poor NHS maternity care is thought to play a part in half of these – more than 600 a year.
Full story here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/apr/14/stillbirths-babies-uk-lancet-report)
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Further to the talk of 'Mother Nature' sorting out the population problem, here is an article from the BBC which warns us exactly how that is already coming about.
Basically, the viruses of this world are now so resistant to antibiotics, that antibiotics themselves are becoming a waste of time.
Little research is being done to create new ones.
Eminent medical people are saying that Global Warming may not be a problem, because the Human Race might not survive to see it's effects!
Here... http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21178718 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-21178718)
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Basically, the viruses of this world are now so resistant to antibiotics, that antibiotics themselves are becoming a waste of time.
Bacteria are becoming more resistant, Fester, not viruses; antibiotics have never worked on a virus. That's why the common cold continues to be a nuisance. Viruses, On the other hand , mutate thousands of times per day, which makes influenza pandemics potentially so deadly.
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Bacteria....viruses....bugs.... call them what you will, they are getting harder to kill, and we are getting easier!
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Main problem is that we have been over protected for many years and have not built up any natural immunity as our forebears and some of us older ones did.
We didn't have a fridge when I was a lad but never had food poisoning, and food preparation was certainly not as hygienic as the experts now try to teach us. I, and all my aged friends, rarely get colds and flu or other diseases. It is just our bodies that start giving up and otherwise we are quite fit and healthy.
*cycle* *cycle* <:<:<:<
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I agree there Yorkie-- there were no sell by or use by dates either--you used your eyes and nose to determine if stuff was edible. If there was a bit of mould on a piece of cheese you cut it off and ate the remainder.
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Bacteria....viruses....bugs.... call them what you will, they are getting harder to kill, and we are getting easier
Er..no; viruses and bacteria are very different. Bacteria (singular: bacterium) are huge unicellular micro-organisms. They're typically a few micrometers long and have many shapes including curved rods, spheres, rods, and spirals. They're the ones that cause serious post-op infections, such as MRSA.
Viruses (from the Latin noun virus, meaning toxin or poison) is a sub-microscopic particle (ranging in size from 20–300 nm) that can infect the cells of a biological organism. The danger of a virus (besides the fact that it can't be 'killed' since it's not technically alive in the first place) is that it tricks your body's cells into reproducing itself, and can cause extremely serious illnesses. The 'flu pandemic of 1918 was caused by a virus, and that killed more than 28,000000 people around the world. Viruses can be deadly, and are exceptionally difficult to stop, since antibiotics have no effect on them.
Yorkie's point is interesting: it's true that older people catch fewer colds, and that's primarily because there are only about 150 strains of the common cold virus, so if you survive to 75+ your body has developed antibodies to most of them. But to return to the article in question. That was discussing Bacterial infections, and what it was saying is that the over-prescribing by vets and doctors of antibiotics for years has caused bacteria to evolve which are immune to the effects of most antibiotics. Most people are unaware for example, that honey is liberally laced with antibiotics, given to bees, or that your typical burger is also heavily laced. For too long vets and doctors have been administering antibiotics prophylactically, which has encouraged the evolution of bacteria which now present a real risk to health. That's the real cause of the problem and not simply the tendency to over-protect.
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We spend a lot of time in overheated environments which I think adds to the spread of "bugs" whatever they are and however they may get into the system. I also think that following thorough hand washing and other basic principles of hygiene is a key way to protect yourself against them. It also makes me very aware of people when out and about who leave a public loo without washing their hands, or who cough and sneeze in public places without covering their nose and mouth :o.
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I wouldn't call them 'Bugs' if I were you Suepp.
You see Ian is likely to castigate you for using the wrong terminology, thus trivialising and ultimately burying the original and important point you might be making.
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*cycle*
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:laugh:
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I wouldn't call them 'Bugs' if I were you Suepp. You see Ian is likely to castigate you for using the wrong terminology, thus trivialising and ultimately burying the original and important point you might be making.
Really? 'Bugs' is the acknowledged generic term for all manner of microbial nasties, so Suepp is quite accurate in her description, as she is with the points being made, each of which makes a lot of sense. However, she is not the person who confused two totally different types of 'bug', one of which isn't even alive, neither is she the one who made a point which was utterly incorrect, based either on a misreading of the original BBC article or which demonstrated an alarming level of ignorance on the very subject being presented for discussion. It's particularly worrying since - at this time of year - the NHS is stretched thin as it valiantly attempts to deal with legions of hypochondriacs with colds, all assuming they're going to be cured through a prescription of antibiotics.
The medical fraternity have been trying to years to educate people about the differences between Viruses and Bacteria, as it's over-prescribing of antibiotics for virus-originated infections which has led, in part at least, to the current situation in which Bacteria are evolving to become immune. However, you clearly don't believe it's of any importance to distinguish between the two, so I can only hope the next time you suffer a paper cut it doesn't live up to your name: you might not survive.
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So are you suggesting that the BBC are producing articles that are incorrect Ian?
I take it that because I committed the heinous crime of using the wrong terminology, that Antibiotics are still in full vigour, undiminished in their effectiveness, and that the experts in the article are prone to gross exaggeration.
In future, (if I can be bothered a all) I will simply post links to interesting articles, and not add any commentary as it seems to draw more attention and criticism than the article itself.
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So are you suggesting that the BBC are producing articles that are incorrect Ian?
No; the article was accurate,. It was you that wasn't.
I take it that because I committed the heinous crime of using the wrong terminology, that Antibiotics are still in full vigour, undiminished in their effectiveness, and that the experts in the article are prone to gross exaggeration.
I suggest you read the article again.
In future, (if I can be bothered a all) I will simply post links to interesting articles, and not add any commentary as it seems to draw more attention and criticism than the article itself.
Let me remind you of what you said:
Basically, the viruses of this world are now so resistant to antibiotics, that antibiotics themselves are becoming a waste of time.
That's simply incorrect. If you're going to post in a topic called 'Health' then you should probably understand what is - really - very basic terminology. And you did post a link: that's how I knew what you were saying was...confused.
BOT - it's worth remembering that we can't defeat viruses; only our own immune systems can. That's what makes them so deadly.
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Ian, you are like a dog with an old slipper.
The article was for interest and debate, I was not setting myself up as a world authority on all matters, I leave that to your good self.
The need to correct everyone for everything at every opportunity only stifles contribution.
There was feedback to that effect from other Forum members at the back end of last year.
Come to think of it, when my daughter was taking her first tentative steps at age 9 months, I wish I had discouraged her from trying to do so, as she obviously was not walking correctly.
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I do believe that it would be a good idea and a massive savings in the annual cost of drugs for the NHS if Doctors prescribed a placebo in appropriate cases. The patient would not need to know, would not be getting addicted (as can happen) and will probably feel better after taking the first dose.
_))*
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Ian, you are like a dog with an old slipper.The article was for interest and debate, I was not setting myself up as a world authority on all matters, I leave that to your good self.
Snide. If you can't make a reasoned argument why descend to abuse? And if it was for "interest and debate", then why not make it accurate?
The need to correct everyone for everything at every opportunity only stifles contribution.
No, I only correct you.
Look: you nearly lost us Ludo - whose contributions made a big difference to this place. Accuracy in debate is important. If you don't think it is, join a forum where accuracy doesn't matter.
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Or
Look: you nearly lost us Ludo - whose contributions made a big difference to this place. Accuracy in debate is important. If you don't think it is, join a forum where accuracy doesn't matter.
Or even start your own, then you will have complete control! ZXZ
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Ian, you are like a dog with an old slipper.The article was for interest and debate, I was not setting myself up as a world authority on all matters, I leave that to your good self.
Snide. If you can't make a reasoned argument why descend to abuse? And if it was for "interest and debate", then why not make it accurate?
The need to correct everyone for everything at every opportunity only stifles contribution.
No, I only correct you.
Look: you nearly lost us Ludo - whose contributions made a big difference to this place. Accuracy in debate is important. If you don't think it is, join a forum where accuracy doesn't matter.
Just to address a few of those rather reactionary points, as best as my limited intellect will allow.
I certainly never resorted to any abuse. If the phrase 'like a dog with an old slipper' constitutes abuse, then I can only assume that you have led an incredibly sheltered life. If any other Forum member thinks that phrase is abusive, please let me know, I will apologise unreservedly!
Instead it was a defensive remark, in response to what I felt was yet another example of tiresome and dismissive aggression.
Does everything posted on this Forum really have to be accurate?
I posted a BBC News article and commented upon it, nothing more.
Now, if EVERYTHING has to be completely accurate, we had better abandon Quiz Time and 99% of the other threads.
Perhaps a Forum is a place for opinion?, and I quite enjoy debate with people who believe differently to me. I don't feel the need to constantly search for Google articles to undermine and disprove them. I rely on what I THINK, not what people on Google thinks!
However, you have clearly stated today that you only choose to do that to me... so I must conclude that you have something personally against me that drives you to do so. I have no such agenda.
You say that I caused Ludo to leave the Forum? When did he leave? I know he went quiet for a while. I was amongst the first to welcome him back last week.
I challenged something that Ludo said, and nothing more... but I never suggested he should leave the Forum?
On the other hand, you directly asked Brumbob to go elsewhere. A massive shame I thought.
Now, for some unknown reason, you are 'suggesting' that I do the same.
Unfortunately, I don't respond well to bullying, not even the 'intellectual bullying' that you excel at.
So, unless banned by DaveR, (who's Forum this is) then I shall not be going anywhere. Sorry!
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At the risk of prolonging this debate, I will only explain a couple of the points you've made.
I certainly never resorted to any abuse.
I suspect you and I have different opinions on what constitutes 'abuse'. You also said
I was not setting myself up as a world authority on all matters, I leave that to your good self.
You see, I think that is abusive. It clearly attempts to score points - cheap ones, at that - by insinuating that my postings towards you are arrogant (and dismissive, which you mention later. Oh, and you also accuse me of bullying.). I don't know if you're unaware of how you come over in postings, but to me (and others) that's abusive.
Moving on to accuracy. Of course everything doesn't have to be accurate. When have I ever said it has? But in a topic called 'Health' in a board called 'Science and Technology' then - yes; I think it ought to be accurate. BTW - when I said I only corrected you, that was pertinent only to this topic (and any other in which facts outweigh unsubstantiated opinion).
But let's examine the timeline. In this topic you made a statement, which was both inaccurate and potentially confusing to readers. I merely posted the facts. I did it in way I thought was both friendly and sociable. Your response was - I venture to suggest - dismissive:
"Bacteria....viruses....bugs.... call them what you will, they are getting harder to kill".
So I tried, once again, to explain what the real issues were, as I thought you'd raised a very good point. But this is where it got nasty.
Where I thought I'd simply tried to make things clearer, you obviously thought I was actively sabotaging your postings. But instead of confronting me about it, you made a snide aside after Suepp - quite accurately - mentioned 'bugs':
" Ian is likely to castigate you for using the wrong terminology, thus trivialising and ultimately burying the original and important point you might be making."
That's quite pointed, as subsequent posters indicated by their use of smileys. Now, in any forum, if you choose to start trouble then you will get it back; that's how forums everywhere operate, and this one is actually more pleasant and civilised than most.
Your next post I would describe as petulant, with your flagrant use of hyperbole and yet still managed to get the point of the original article completely wrong. I responded, yet still attempted to be relatively civil. But that clearly didn't satisfy you, because you then made even more comments, each of which was either untrue or simply absurd.
The sad thing is that a lot of this was unnecessary. The point you brought up was a good one, but I just wanted it to be accurate. I don't want to involve Ludo, and I ought not to have mentioned him, either, but it is a fact that we - all of us - are often unaware of how what we consider to be jovial asides can impact some others. I could show you where this has happened, but I'll leave it to you to search.
I am not suggesting you go elsewhere; far from it, as I consider the forum is better for having you on board. But you might bear in mind, when you accuse me of "intellectual bullying' that you excel at." that there are those who feel similarly about your good self. Bullying, like beauty, is often in the mind of the beholder.
Just to correct one misapprehension, BTW, this forum was started by both Dave and me, and from the outset we have had joint ownership, with joint responsibility for what gets written on it.
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I'm on my bike! :cyclist40: I feel sick! :puke2:
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The Forum is actually owned by the Three Towns Foundation, a shadowy organisation based in a disused mine working accessible only through the ruins of the Pier Pavilion site. Nothing to do with me, Guv.
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I always suspected that was the case! aaa.gif The Illuminati will be behind it all! ;D
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I am perplexed by what I see this morning.
I have now been accused of 'causing trouble' ... and further 'abuse'... also of being 'petulant'
As any responsible person should, I have read my own posts back to myself to see if I can detect any TRACE of such a thing.
(I nearly used the words 'atom', 'particle' , 'molecule' or 'grain' instead of TRACE, but that might have been factually incorrect, this being the Science thread and all!) ;)
Anyhow, I am satisfied that I am guilty of no such thing. On the contrary, my posts are entirely defensive, whilst Ian's range from condescending to pompous. Once again, I am only making those comments defensively.
Please anyone (except Ian) feel free to point out if I am wrong.
No matter, as I have said previously, my only regret is posting any article in the first place. In future it will be links only, (although I know Yorkie will be displeased by that) But, it will save me having to switch Jeremy Kyle off for a while and deal with the hassle that my commentary seems to attract!
Kind Regards, your ever respectful Fester.
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You know, Fester, I'm never quite certain whether you're demonstrating that facetiousness for which you are so famed, or whether you're actually believing what you write. Having met you in person, you're nothing like your postings, and I've never found you to exhibit or intend the slightest malice. But when you use adjectives like "condescending" and "pompous" then I wonder.
No matter; I'm sure you no more intended to be petulant or abusive than I meant to be condescending or pompous, so perhaps we should leave it there.
Kind Regards; your ever-respectful Ian.
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As an "outsider" who visits almost daily to read contributions but seldom posts, it seems to me if the forum was a marriage, now would be the time to seek counselling.
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As we've always said, words on a screen often come across very differently to how they would if spoken face to face. I know Ian and Fester are both very pleasant, intelligent people in person. $good$
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My Mum would have banged the protagonist's heads together and told them to get on with their life.
Personally, I have found the exchanges twixt the parties most entertaining and do not consider either of them is in any way the aggressor or otherwise. Each has their opinion and each has their own unique way of expressing themselves.
In all debate there must be understanding and tolerance of each other's position and sometimes one must accept what is dished out and hope that their position is treated in the same way by their opposer.
$3towns$
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Wasn't being facetious, just sticking up for myself that's all.
Dave, how DARE you use the word 'Intelligent' when referring to me?
Or 'Pleasant' for that matter....
However, now that we have determined that my levels of petulance and abusiveness, are roughly equal to Ian's levels of pomposity (pompousness?) then we must end this nonsense, and the Three Towns Forum can go back to its slumber.
In the meantime, I shall wear the 'hair-shirt' and engage in a protracted period of self-flagellation.
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Where are tickets obtainable from ? ;D :twoface: :P
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As we've always said, words on a screen often come across very differently to how they would if spoken face to face. I know Ian and Fester are both very pleasant, intelligent people in person. $good$
I agree with everything that you have said Dave because written words can be interpreted incorrectly and this is one of the reasons why I personally don't get involved in debating on screen. I have had the pleasure of meeting Ian a few times and Fester has been very generous to me personally and also to others so they are both nice guys who sometimes have a difference of opinion which is quite normal.
I've had the odd rant at times but hope that I've learned from the past and try to be more tolerant of others views as we are all different and have different opinions on things.
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how sad to see the difference of opinions end this way , i was expecting to see Harry Hill jump up shouting "FIGHT"
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how sad to see the difference of opinions end this way , i was expecting to see Harry Hill jump up shouting "FIGHT"
Indeed.
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_))* _))* _))*
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Put us down for a couple of tickets! Assuming there is a discount for two tickets of cause! :laugh:
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what about the pensioners, will there be seating?
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what about the pensioners, will there be seating?
Pensioners? Are there any other types of Forum members?
Anyway, enough of this nonsense, there could never be any such confrontation as I would not stand a chance.
Ian would beat me to the ground using his intellect alone!
I liked the billboard though, and I wonder if there should be some supporting bouts?
Dave R v Yorkie, for the title of undisputed Blog master in the North Wales area? (Guest referee = OSCAR)
Ormegolf v Snowcap, for control of all Golf in the Three Towns area?
Nemesis v BlongB for the prestigious Hotelier's championship
Top of the Bill, in the blue corner.....WREX, versus the mighty, undefeated Conwy County Borough Council!
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Dave R v Yorkie, for the title of undisputed Blog master in the North Wales area? (Guest referee = OSCAR)
Come now, Fester....Yorkie wouldn't stand a chance. 8) :-* :laugh:
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*cycle* *cycle*
No bike race? :laugh:
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More like:
:cyclist40: :cyclist40:
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Come now, Fester....Yorkie wouldn't stand a chance. 8) :-* :laugh:
The bigger they are the harder they fall!
$donald$
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Take note... DICLOFENAC is one of the UK's most used Anti-inflammatory drugs.
This BBC News article is urging people to STOP using it, and is a strong warning.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23109314 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23109314)
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Take note... DICLOFENAC is one of the UK's most used Anti-inflammatory drugs.
This BBC News article is urging people to STOP using it, and is a strong warning.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23109314 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-23109314)
Thanks very much Fester for making people aware of that particular drug. In fact any anti inflammatory drug should be taken with care as I read in 1994 that 2000 deaths a year in this country are the result of taking anti inflammatory drugs.
There are two types of Naprosyn pills and in 1994 I was wrongly prescribed the terracotta coloured one which doctors told me later are known to cause stomach irritation.
As a result I had a gastric bleed and I was very lucky that I didn't become one of those 2000 people who die each year after taking anti inflammatory drugs.
I still have to take Naprosyn tablets but do so only when absolutely necessary and even then they have to be the white coloured pills that are Gastro-resistant film coated ones and are taken with food.
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All these type of tablets are a danger to ones gastric system. Over the years I have been prescribed most of them at one time or another. Some were withdrawn by the powers that be, others either stopped having any effect on my joints or gave me awful pains in my gut. I go so long taking them, then have to stop due to the side effects. Then I seize up. Can't win !
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Two things keep me my old knees going Nem, The oils from my shop externally, but much more importantly I have been taking ROSEHIP CAPSULES internally, which I buy from Holland and Barrett. They have been superb for me and are entirely natural and harmless.
When I tell my customers and family about them, they always thank me for the advice within a short time.
Its a good job though, because I have been waiting on a list for 6 months to see the Orthopedic Specialist about my knee. I have been informed that the NHS target is to be seen in 32 weeks from now, but I was told by the secretary 'not to hold my breath' as they are nowhere near meeting targets in Wales right now.
.... and that is just for the first consultation!!
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Some people say that it is possible to speed up proceedings by initially having a private consultation. Don't know if it's true. ;)
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Some people say that it is possible to speed up proceedings by initially having a private consultation. Don't know if it's true. ;)
Last year my GP scared the bejesus out of me by referring me to a Consultant following an abnormal scan but would not comment further. I rang the Consultant's office and was told there was a waiting list of 6 months. I enquired about an private appointment and was informed if I paid £140 I could see in the Consultant in 5 days. I agreed! The day after the NHS appointment clerk from Glan Clwyd Hospital rang to offer me appointment for the following week. I relayed the above information, she just laughed and said nonsense. I'm pleased to say two operations later and they've found nothing (this was a mixture of private health care and NHS). This was not for an orthopaedic consultation.
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Today we saw and heard in the Media that a big step forward had been made in the move towards curing Altzheimers. But don't get too excited about it, as the latest news is that the scientist who developed the possible cure has forgotten the formula!
Z**
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There is a Llandudno resident who visits the pier each evening, (and several other venues), and he most certainly has Alzheimers disease.
It is quite sad, but also pretty annoying when he approaches me every night about the same subject, and gets very irate at my lack of interest.
He never remembers that we have the same discussion EVERY night. Other people are equally tired of having to deal with him.
But more importantly, I keep seeing him DRIVING around the town!!
He parks his car in the most ridiculous of places, and quite often opens his door in traffic, and walks out into the road without looking.
He is a terrible danger to himself and others..... but knows little or nothing about it!
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There is a Llandudno resident who visits the pier each evening, (and several other venues), and he most certainly has Alzheimers disease.
It is quite sad, but also pretty annoying when he approaches me every night about the same subject, and gets very irate at my lack of interest.
He never remembers that we have the same discussion EVERY night. Other people are equally tired of having to deal with him.
But more importantly, I keep seeing him DRIVING around the town!!
He parks his car in the most ridiculous of places, and quite often opens his door in traffic, and walks out into the road without looking.
He is a terrible danger to himself and others..... but knows little or nothing about it!
I've had a chat with him about 'Pier Six Ltd' in the past. :laugh: He is a danger to himself and other people; he should most certainly not be driving.
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Don't worry Dave, he won't remember the discussion.
..... and neither should he be inflicted on me, several times a week.
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But more importantly, I keep seeing him DRIVING around the town!!
He parks his car in the most ridiculous of places, and quite often opens his door in traffic, and walks out into the road without looking.
He is a terrible danger to himself and others..... but knows little or nothing about it!
I've had a chat with him about 'Pier Six Ltd' in the past. :laugh: He is a danger to himself and other people; he should most certainly not be driving.
If you really consider him to be as dangerous as your posts suggest, the situation can be reported to the Police who will visit him, assess his suitability to drive and call for a medical check. Sad if one has to lose the Driving Licence but essential for the preservation of life.
^*^0 ^^^^
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Amazing how the former Head of the ridiculously named Betsi Cadwaladar Health Trust received a £200,000 payoff after quitting because of her almost complete incompetence. You also have to wonder how the Welsh Health Minister agreed to this payoff, whilst at the same time refusing to agree a 1% increase in pay for Nurses?
"A health chief received an “obscene” £200,000 pay-off after she quit her post in the wake of a damning report into the running of the NHS in North Wales.
In all, Mary Burrows was paid just short of half a million pounds (£465-470k), the Betsi Cadwaladr annual accounts for 2013/14 show."
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-ex-health-board-7381407 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-ex-health-board-7381407)
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Don't worry Dave, he won't remember the discussion.
..... and neither should he be inflicted on me, several times a week.
I know more about the lurid underside of Bradford than anyone could ever want to know thanks to the stories you have inflicted on me over many Tuesday's _))*
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Amazing how the former Head of the ridiculously named Betsi Cadwaladar Health Trust received a £200,000 payoff after quitting because of her almost complete incompetence. You also have to wonder how the Welsh Health Minister agreed to this payoff, whilst at the same time refusing to agree a 1% increase in pay for Nurses?
"A health chief received an “obscene” £200,000 pay-off after she quit her post in the wake of a damning report into the running of the NHS in North Wales.
In all, Mary Burrows was paid just short of half a million pounds (£465-470k), the Betsi Cadwaladr annual accounts for 2013/14 show."
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-ex-health-board-7381407 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-ex-health-board-7381407)
As we are just experiencing the NHS at it's best with the so far excellent care with Mrs ME's breast cancer it disgusts me to see money wasted like this! The money should be going where it is actually needed to reward the hardworking doctors, nurses etc not given as a reward for incompetence!
However did we get to the stage where being no good at doing a job is rewarded? The ones who employed her should also be penalised. But I expect they would get a higher payout! Just bonkers! &shake&
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Amazing how the former Head of the ridiculously named Betsi Cadwaladar Health Trust received a £200,000 payoff after quitting because of her almost complete incompetence.
It's been a thorny issue, that, but had she actually demonstrated 'incompetence' the board could have mounted capability hearings. I don't know if anyone has read the entire report but the board and executive were something of a nest of vipers and it seems that many of the top management were actively engaged in fighting each other or actively sabotaging routine tasks. There is no doubt in my mind that she certainly had to go but proving she was incompetent in the strictest sense is very tough, and the cheapest option might well have been to settle on her terms.
A good example of her approach is this:
An example of this is the tabling of a paper at the April 2013 in committee Board meeting setting out the need for the recruitment of 72 additional clinicians by August 2013 to meet the requirements identified by the Deanery8 27 in relation to junior doctor training. Albeit the Chair advised the Board that a decision on this matter should not be reached as there had been insufficient time to consider the issues. Similarly, although considered by the Finance and Performance Committee, the Annual Income and Expenditure Budget for 2012-13 was only circulated to the full Board the evening before the 26 April 2012 Board meeting, with copies tabled at the meeting.
But in the end I suspect her real failing was that she simply wasn't up to the job of dealing with a large structure whose members had loyalties to previous structures and institutions.
If you're interested you can download the entire report here (http://www.wao.gov.uk/system/files/publications/BCUHB_Joint_Review_English_2013.pdf)
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I suspect her real failing was that she simply wasn't up to the job of dealing with a large structure whose members had loyalties to previous structures and institutions.
I'm sure you're correct. She should have been fired then.
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I was at Llandudno Hospital yesterday, and two maintainence guys were discussing this pay-off issue with the man running the Reception.
The level of annoyance, anger even, was palpable.
The common theme being that if any of them had been under performing in their jobs, there would have been swift procedures to correct it, or movement toward dismissal. Certainly no £200k pay off.
As Merddin and all concerned are saying... it's OBSCENE.
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Not sure what the answer is in these cases, because it's far from unique. The top people are almost always employed on detailed contracts, which specify what they're supposed to do, how and to what standards but also what they will be paid in compensation if they're persuaded to leave early. And the maintenance guys were correct: they'd have been out on their ears if they'd failed as badly. But if the accepted wisdom - that you have to pay very high amounts to get the best people - is correct, then what happened in this case?
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Not sure what the answer is in these cases, because it's far from unique. The top people are almost always employed on detailed contracts, which specify what they're supposed to do, how and to what standards but also what they will be paid in compensation if they're persuaded to leave early. And the maintenance guys were correct: they'd have been out on their ears if they'd failed as badly. But if the accepted wisdom - that you have to pay very high amounts to get the best people - is correct, then what happened in this case?
A very good point, and one that has affected me personally in the past. (but in a different way)
Basically, when I was leaving my last employer to come to live in Llandudno, a 'rumour' circulated that I was actually going to work for a competitor in Manchester.
This was completely untrue, and I told my employer as much.
However, the CEO, and the HR department decided I should be given a large sum of money if I signed an agreement NOT to join the competitor.
I was only too pleased to bank a cheque for agreeing NOT to work for a company who DID NOT want me to work for them in the first place!
I think my point is, issues like this seem to revolve around the incompetence of management, coupled with the easy access to sums of money to make problems go away, without actually tackling the problem itself. Weak management?
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And it was you who started the rumour, no doubt? _))*
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_))* _))* _))*
I think my point is, issues like this seem to revolve around the incompetence of management, coupled with the easy access to sums of money to make problems go away, without actually tackling the problem itself. Weak management?
So it's not simply restricted to the Social services sector, then.
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Ian, indeed not... in my experience I have seen many such 'compromise deals' and 'Gardening Leave' settlements in private industry, involving sums of money which seemed outrageous.
But, it only affected me personally when I came into Senior Management status.
This suggests that it is not about Private versus Public sector, it is more about LEVELS.
i.e., as a warehouseman caught stealing a £10 item, I would have been summarily dismissed.
As a Director, embezzling vast fortunes, I am more likely to be given a 'settlement' to go away quietly.
I believe that this is very wrong.
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as a warehouseman caught stealing a £10 item, I would have been summarily dismissed.
As a Director, embezzling vast fortunes, I am more likely to be given a 'settlement' to go away quietly.
I believe that this is very wrong.
And that seems to permeate every facet of British society. It's certainly wrong and I wouldn't know how you'd go about changing it, either.
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Image is everything I'm afraid. Which is why the stuff at the top is hushed up as much as possible, as it obviously attracts more meida attention .
To even it up the ones on the bottom have to make just as much as noise, you do that through unity, if one guy yells nobody listens but if thousands of people yell then they will listen.
The company will listen, sadly, only when it affects their profit margins, and negative press attention will do this. So when one poor man gets unfairly sacked, you stand together and make that as bigger problem for the company than if the managing director had committed gross negligence
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'Button battery' warning over child deaths in Manchester
A leading paediatrician has warned of the dangers of lithium batteries after two children swallowed them and died.
Dr Kate Parkins said, in the last 18 months, another five children in Greater Manchester have also suffered life-changing injuries as a result.
She said the button-shaped batteries "look like sweets" to children but can cause severe internal bleeding which medics struggle to treat.
"It's not what's inside the battery," she explained. "The battery sets up an electrical current which causes a build-up of sodium hydroxide which is caustic soda.
"That causes a burn through the oesophagus, the feeding tube, and that can then burn through into major blood vessels and that's why the bleeding is then pretty much impossible to control and stop."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-29610570 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-29610570)
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as a warehouseman caught stealing a £10 item, I would have been summarily dismissed.
As a Director, embezzling vast fortunes, I am more likely to be given a 'settlement' to go away quietly.
I believe that this is very wrong.
And that seems to permeate every facet of British society. It's certainly wrong and I wouldn't know how you'd go about changing it, either.
Make the Warehousemen Directors and the Directors, Warehousemen! N'est pas? ZXZ
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'Wash salad' advice after two die from E. coli.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-36823404 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-36823404)
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This subject has hit close to home recently, Mrs H has not been able to go out in the sun without full sunscreen protection for the last 10 years, taking care of one problem has created another, so I recommend reading this, from today's BBC news report..............
Vitamin D supplements advised for everyone.
Everyone should consider taking vitamin D supplements in autumn and winter, public health advice in England and Wales says.
It comes as a government commissioned report sets the recommended levels at 10 micrograms of the vitamin a day.
But officials are concerned this may not be achievable through diet alone, particularly when sunlight, which helps in vitamin D production, is scarce. Google article at BBC health vitamin D
or
Full report http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-36846894 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-36846894)
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A study in Princetown Uni also suggested that Vit D is actually capable of repairing damaged heart muscle tissue. At least in mice...
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Until now, I had no idea about "microbeads".... that there is plastic in my toothpaste, who comes up with XXXX like this.............
The UK government has announced plans to ban microbeads used in cosmetics and cleaning products by 2017.
The small pieces of plastic commonly found in toothpaste, exfoliating body scrubs and other household products and are thought to damage the environment.
Environmentalists fear they are building up in oceans and potentially entering the food chain.
A consultation on how a ban would work will start later this year, Environment Secretary Andrea Leadsom has announced.
A number of cosmetic companies have made voluntary commitments to phase out the use of microbeads by 2020.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-37263087 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-37263087)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-37175379 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-37175379)
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Not keen on the idea anyway, my skin won't tolerate being scraped !!!!
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Should I worry about arsenic in my rice?
By Dr Michael Mosley
BBC
Quote...,.
Now, some ways of cooking rice reduce arsenic levels more than others. We carried out some tests with Prof Meharg and found the best technique is to soak the rice overnight before cooking it in a 5:1 water-to-rice ratio.
That cuts arsenic levels by 80%, compared to the common approach of using two parts water to one part rice and letting all the water soak in. Using lots of water - the 5:1 ratio - without pre-soaking also reduced arsenic levels, but not by as much as the pre-soaking levels.
So, while I would now think twice about feeding young children too much rice or rice products, I'm not going to stop eating rice myself. I will, however, be cooking it in more water and, when I remember, leave it to soak overnight.
http://www.bbc.com/news/health-38910848 (http://www.bbc.com/news/health-38910848)
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OMG. Can you imagine the local take away soaking the stuff overnight?
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Parents are being warned of a contagious winter vomiting and diarrhoea bug that is sweeping many parts of the UK.
Although there have yet to be cases of the infection in North Wales, there have been reports of outbreaks in nearby counties such as Lancashire and Staffordshire.
Parents are being warned to be vigilant, and to be sure to contact the family GP should a child develop Shigellosis symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
The bug has some unpleasant effects, which are mainly;
Chronic diarrhoea (dysentery)
High temperature (fever) - 38C and over, or 37.5C and above in children under five.
Nausea and sickness
Painful stomach cramps
The symptoms usually last around five to seven days.
The diarrhoea can also cause dehydration too.
The infection usually spreads quickly amongst groups of people who are often in close contact with one another, such as families, schools and nurseries.
Fortunately, although the symptoms are nasty, Shigella is rarely serious. There is no magic cure, so those unlucky enough to pick up the bug will have to let it run its course. But there are things that you can do to ease the effects.
Treatment is usually plenty of fluids to ensure that dehydration doesn’t occur. It is also recommended to use oral re-hydration solutions if necessary.
However, it is best to steer clear of anti-diarrhoea medications (such as Loperamide) as they can make symptoms much worse.
Good hygiene is key to preventing the spread of Shigellosis.
You should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet and at regular intervals throughout the day.
Help children to wash their hands properly.
If you need to clean a child’s potty, wear gloves when handling it and dispose of the contents in the toilet. Be sure to wash the potty with hot water after each use.
Clean and disinfect all toilets you use on a regular basis.
Don’t forget to clean flush handles, taps and sinks with soap and hot water after use, followed by a household disinfectant.
Always wash your hands before handling, eating or cooking food. Do not prepare or serve food for others if you are infected.
Avoid sharing towels and washcloths.
Be sure to wash the laundry of an infected person on the hottest possible setting.
Stay away from work or school until you have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.
Do not go swimming until you have been free of symptoms for two days.
Avoid sexual contact until symptom free for 48 hours.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/health/highly-contagious-vomiting-diarrhoea-bug-12601345 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/health/highly-contagious-vomiting-diarrhoea-bug-12601345)
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Not something I have considered before, worth a read.
Skin creams containing paraffin have been linked to dozens of fire deaths across England, the BBC has learned.
The products for conditions like eczema and psoriasis can leave people at risk of setting themselves ablaze.
If people use the creams regularly but do not often change clothes or bedding, paraffin residue can soak into the fabric, making it flammable.
The medicines regulator has updated its guidance and says all creams containing paraffin should carry a warning.
Despite warnings going back more than 10 years, BBC Radio 5 live Investigates has discovered there have been 37 deaths in England since 2010 linked to the creams.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-39308748 (http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-39308748)
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I took the test, and my heart age is seven years older than it should be, although a generalisation, I am looking at making some changes, ..................be interesting to hear other comments ?
Public Health England is urging people over 30 to take an online test to find out their heart age, which indicates if they are at increased risk of suffering a heart attack or a stroke.
They predict about 80% of heart attacks and strokes in people under 75 could be prevented if heart health was improved.
Unhealthy lifestyles put four in five adults at risk of early death, they estimate.
People should quit smoking, eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise.
The test is not diagnostic - it will not tell you whether you are going to have a heart attack - but it can be a wake-up call to make healthy changes. REF BBC
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-45395576 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-45395576)
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It seems the evidence in favour of 'man 'flu' continues to mount. The latest research project at the Royal Holloway University of London has thrown up some interesting information: many infections cause more severe illness in men than women. Men infected with tuberculosis are 1.5 times more likely to die than women; men infected with human papillomavirus are five times more likely to develop cancer than women; and men infected with Epstein-Barr virus are at least twice as likely to develop Hodgkin’s lymphoma as women.
It's not a huge leap extend the reasoning to common viral complaints such as colds. The researchers used mathematical modelling to show that, for pathogens that affect both sexes, natural selection in theory should favour those that cause less illness in women – as long as they can be transmitted from mother to child.
This evolutionary pressure, they argue, could explain a longstanding puzzle: why human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) progresses to leukaemia much more commonly in Japanese men than Japanese women, but affects both sexes equally in the Caribbean. This discrepancy could be because women breastfeed their babies more commonly and for longer in Japan – giving the virus more opportunity to enter another host.
For this to be the case, though, the virus would have to be able to detect whether it’s inside a man or a woman. We don’t yet know how it would do this, but it’s not impossible, says Jansen, one of the Holloway research team. “There are all sorts of hormonal and other pathways that are slightly different between men and women,” he says.
If we were to identify a mechanism, that would open the possibility of manipulating it. “We could try to make the virus think it’s in a female body rather than a male body and therefore take a different course of action,” says Jansen.
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New Scientist has just reported on a man whose intensive course of antibiotics left him with auto-brewery syndrome – a rare condition wherein his body manufactures its own beer.
It’s believed the the antibiotics probably disrupted the man’s balance of gut microbes, causing abnormal growth of S. cerevisiae, which normally exists at low levels in the human gut. The abundant yeast then converted any carbohydrates he ate into a beer-like substance. It’s curable – which is a good thing – since driving when drunk without having drunk alcohol can be difficult to explain.
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Coronavirus: Two cases confirmed in UK https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51325192 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51325192)
A lot of activity on social media around the Arrow park area.... Why fly over Liverpool to Brize Norton, then transfer by coach, 6 coaches ?, to Arrow Park Hospital, and emptying a nurses accommodation block for the passengers, close to ICU.
Coronavirus convoy spotted heading to Arrowe Park hospital on Wirral https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtFevlIOQeg&fbclid=IwAR1aHMAdsYsTau43MbjOc87CQVqz3ipiAT0ymLG8gdwISJM_OSAxz03Tg7E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtFevlIOQeg&fbclid=IwAR1aHMAdsYsTau43MbjOc87CQVqz3ipiAT0ymLG8gdwISJM_OSAxz03Tg7E)
And I´m all right Jack...... Sorry photo will not post, picture through coach window, shows medics in full barrier kit, and the coach driver in his shirt sleeves
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Still a lot of Social media chat.... why use nurses accommodation, how long before can be used again ?,.... why are they issuing face masks, hand sanitiser etc, to everyone entering the hospital, visitors and patients alike ?..... it does raise the question, if this is the response to dealing with 83 possible infected people, I dread to think, if this was a more serious situation,...... also the explanation below still leaves me wondering, should we trust those who thought using public coaches and hospital buildings for quarantine purposes, the best solution. ? surely this country has contingency plans ?
Coronavirus: Arrowe Park bus drivers explain why they didn't have hazmat suits on quarantine trip
People were shocked to see that bus drivers were just wearing their normal uniforms while transporting 83 coronavirus passengers to the quarantine area on the Wirral
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronavirus-arrowe-park-bus-drivers-17671537 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronavirus-arrowe-park-bus-drivers-17671537)
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The first Briton in Wuhan to contract the deadly coronavirus is twenty five year old Connor Reed from Llandudno.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7959643/First-Briton-contract-coronavirus-claims-shook-infection-hot-toddy-whisky.html (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7959643/First-Briton-contract-coronavirus-claims-shook-infection-hot-toddy-whisky.html)
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Thank goodness he's ok and that his remedy worked. Some of the beers I've tasted in the past in Llandudno would have killed off any viruses too
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Well, the whiskey he took would have dilated his arteries, and thus alleviated the breathing issue.
But he's described as an English teacher, yet the article (mind you, it is the Sun) describes him as claiming "the Foreign Office were 'disinterested' when he told them about his infection." That means the FO was impartial. If he wanted to suggest they were uninterested, then he should have said that. Many folk wouldn't realise, but he is supposed to be an English teacher...
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If the Chinese get to hear about the Connor Reed remedy then they will start panic buying Whiskey and then there will be nothing left in the UK
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Let them Hugo, I've got my stock in already, so I should be OK until this crisis passes _))++
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Cheers Blongb, Iechyd Da $drink$
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SMOKERS are being urged to quit now or risk suffering more serious complications if they develop Covid-19.
Leading Welsh respiratory consultant is urging Keir Lewis, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Swansea University, warns that smokers could be at greater risk of going on to lung illness from the Coronavirus.
Smokers already have weakened lung defences as a result of their habit, damaging the cells protecting their nose and upper and lower airways.
lung defences heal quite quickly so giving up smoking even now could significantly improve smokers’ ability to defend from the infection and also recover from the condition by strengthening their body’s immune system.
Improvements in lung defences occur within days of giving up.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18339007.ash-cymru-tells-north-wales-smokers-quit-now-pandemic/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18339007.ash-cymru-tells-north-wales-smokers-quit-now-pandemic/)
Ask any pharmacy for advice.
More information ........ https://www.quitwithhelp.co.uk/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwyPbzBRDsARIsAFh15JYuiHxgtiJ_cbx7vj03YnwSBVjQuBKA6XlwKzzL3kFxPLyf6yGAJIwaArQhEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds#second (https://www.quitwithhelp.co.uk/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwyPbzBRDsARIsAFh15JYuiHxgtiJ_cbx7vj03YnwSBVjQuBKA6XlwKzzL3kFxPLyf6yGAJIwaArQhEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds#second)
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PUBLIC Health Wales has reported a sharp rise in smokers quitting amidst fears over Covid-19.
Compared to recent weeks last week saw a 51 per cent increase in referrals to NHS Wales’ Help Me Quit service following warnings that smokers face an increased risk of suffering severe complications from Covid-19.
According to health experts, smokers are more at risk from the virus because they have weakened lung defences as a result of smoking which damages the cells protecting their nose, upper and lower airways.
If they quit now however, they can improve their ability to fight the infection.
“Help Me Quit are responding to the dramatic rise in demand by ramping up telephone support and ensuring all smokers are given the support they need to quit this deadly habit.”
cont https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/18396262.health-officials-report-surge-welsh-smokers-quitting-covid-19-fears/ (https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/18396262.health-officials-report-surge-welsh-smokers-quitting-covid-19-fears/)
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BETSI Cadwaladr University Health Board has reported the largest ever uptake of flu vaccinations in its communities across North Wales.
Since this season’s campaign started in September 2020, 294,700 people have had their jab to date, which represents an increase in all eligible groups on previous years.
With the Covid-19 vaccination programme also now well underway, the health board has used this achievement to plan large scale vaccination campaigns.
Teresa Owen, executive director of Public Health, said: “This is a significant achievement in the effort to keep the public safe against this other potentially serious, and even deadly virus.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19028992.north-wales-health-board-records-highest-ever-uptake-flu-vaccine/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19028992.north-wales-health-board-records-highest-ever-uptake-flu-vaccine/)
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Toddler's family feared for his life in kidney failure ordeal - and it was all caused by seagull poo
Jaydon Pritchard spent 19 days in Alder Hey hooked up to a dialysis machine after falling ill
An 18-month-old boy suffered kidney failure after he ingested seagull droppings while out playing in his garden.
Jaydon Pritchard is "still not out of the woods" completely but is doing much better, according to his grandparents Arwel and Christine, who look after him along with his mother Tiffany at their home in Amlwch in Anglesey.
The traumatic ordeal began on Tuesday, April 6, when Jaydon was taken to see a doctor after feeling unwell for the previous couple of days.
The doctor referred Jaydon to Ysbyty Gwynedd where he was later discharged after his family were told that he was suffering from a "virus".
His grandfather said Jaydon "didn't do anything apart from sleep and be sick" the next day until later on in the evening, when they heard a "horrible noise coming from his cot".
"He was having a fit, so we called for an ambulance straight away," said Mr Pritchard.
"He had another fit before the ambulance arrived and another three fits on the way to the hospital. It was like he was looking through you. He didn't recognise anyone.
His grandmother said she was "apprehensive" over leaving him in the garden again.
"I clean the patio every day, but it's difficult because the seagulls are nesting nearby and it's a constant mess to clean up," she said.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/toddlers-family-feared-life-kidney-20494868 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/toddlers-family-feared-life-kidney-20494868)
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A NEW free group programme helping those aged 50 and older is launching at various Conwy community centres in September.
‘My Generation’, which is run by mental health charity Mind, is a free eight-week programme for older people which aims to improve wellbeing, build resilience and reduce isolation and loneliness.
It has now been taken on by their Conwy branch, with the project coming to centres in Penmaenmawr, Llandudno (Craig-y-Don and Ty Llewelyn) and Abergele
Helen Marchant, marketing and engagement officer at Conwy Mind, feels the project is particularly timely given the heightened feelings of solitude many have felt during the COVID-19 pandemic.
She said: “We’ve been getting an increase in calls during the pandemic from people coping with loss, or dealing with stress and low moods, and that obviously doesn’t suddenly go amiss for the older generation.
“Loneliness seems particularly key right now, so that’s been something we’ve been really keen to tackle.”
The next My Generation group will begin on Tuesday, September 7 Sept at Ty Llywellyn Community Centre, Llandudno, taking place from 10am-12pm.
Those who wish to take part can enjoy different activities and spend time with others to boost their mood and resilience once a week for eight weeks.
Groups meet face to face, but social distancing measures will also be in place.
For more information, visit: conwymind.org.uk or www.mind.org.uk/about-us/mind-cymru/my-generation (http://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/mind-cymru/my-generation).
You can also contact Conwy Mind on 01492 879907.
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Patients who take paracetamol frequently could be putting themselves at risk of strokes and heart disease, researchers have found.
Most people had thought that it was a completely safe drug to take for those with high blood pressure.
However, a new survey has found that the effect on blood pressure is like the effect from non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, which are known to increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease, and also used to manage chronic pain,
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/paracetamol-warning-blood-pressure-millions-23032179 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/paracetamol-warning-blood-pressure-millions-23032179)
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Inactive over 70s urged to start exercising - 'better late than never’
Research showed physical activity was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular diseases
Experts said that it is “better late than never, but better early than late” to start exercise after a new study found that people can ward off severe heart disease by performing at least 20 minutes exercise a day in later life.
The protective benefit seemed to reduce as people aged which “suggests greater cardiovascular benefits might be achieved by improving physical activity earlier in late life,”
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This is a long shot, but for those interested in nutrition, Prof. Tim Spector https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Spector and the ZOE tracker team, have started a new podcast..............
We’re excited to announce the launch of our podcast: ZOE Science and Nutrition.
In each episode, we’ll be teaming up with world-leading scientists to get YOUR questions on nutrition answered.
We're starting things off with two episodes we think you'll love.
Are restrictive diets the answer to preventing and managing food intolerances?
With Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, ZOE’s U.S. Medical Director, board-certified gastroenterologist, and New York Times best-selling author.
Is there any truth to the claims that chocolate can improve our mood, our health, and even our libido?
With Professor Tim Spector, one of the top 100 most cited scientists in the world, and Spencer Hyman, world-leading chocolate expert and founder of Cocoa Runners.
Episodes guided by you.
We’d love to hear which nutrition topics or questions you’d like us to cover in future episodes.
Share your thoughts
Tune in every other Thursday on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to your podcasts. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
The ZOE Team
First two podcasts............ https://zoe_science_and_nutrition.captivate.fm/listen?utm_source=Email+%2F+newsletter
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As some will know I am a great believer in Vitamin D, mostly because when you are deficient in vitamin D, your immune system may not be as strong, making you more susceptible to infection, especially bearing in mind the recent problems.
Top symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency and how to deal with it
Depression is a symptom of Vitamin D deficiency among'st a few other key signs
According to Heart UK, about one in five Brits suffers from vitamin D deficiency. Also known as the “sunshine” nutrient, vitamin D undertakes various tasks that keeps your body healthy.
Every person is at high risk of not getting enough vitamin D, including all children aged 1 to 4, and all babies. The nutrient is considered “essential”, as it is key to keeping your bones strong and helps create new hair follicles.
A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults. The body creates vitamin D from direct sunlight on the skin when outdoors.
There are however other symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, so we have provided a list for you to check using information from "Discover" . If anyone of these symptoms apply to you, it is recommended you speak to your GP about the problem.
Dizziness and fatigue, Weak Bones, Muscle Pain, Depression, Increased Risk of Infection.....
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/top-symptoms-vitamin-d-deficiency-23859022 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/top-symptoms-vitamin-d-deficiency-23859022)
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I can support Steve's views on Vitamin D. I take Vita Biotics 2000iu every day. It may be of interest for people to know that a consultant breast surgeon told me to take a high dose of Vitamin D daily when she saw me following a diagnosis of breast cancer. I took her advice and am convinced it has helped with this.
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Hi Helig
I'm sorry to hear what you have been through but pleased that the Vita Biotics are helping you with your recovery. .
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Helig, glad to hear you are finding Vit D helpful and making you feel better, take care.
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Thank you to both Steve and Hugo. I was lucky to have found it early and the procedures were relatively minor.
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Thank you to both Steve and Hugo. I was lucky to have found it early and the procedures were relatively minor.
Very good to hear.......................... $good$
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Hi Helig---- Pleased to hear things are improving.
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Another You Tube video from Dr John Campbell, extolling the advantages of Vitamin D reduces autoimmune disease.
"Vitamin D regulates a wide array of genes involved in inflammation and immunity,
inconsistently associated with reduced risk of several autoimmune diseases in observational studies
Active form of vitamin D regulates genes, inflammation, acquired and innate immune responses"
short video.......... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4ASN8VXuL8
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Experts warn Brits could be hit by ?super pollen? and 'thunder fever' ahead of tropical storm
?Predicted thunderstorms won?t give respite, as instead, they can cause a phenomenon known as ?thunder fever??
Hayfever sufferers could be in for a week of hell as thunderstorms bring about a surge of ?super pollen?. The unusual weather conditions are set to trigger ?thunder fever? for millions of people.
Pollen counts across the UK are to rise to ?very high? this week, ahead of the ex-Tropica storm from Florida, Storm Alex. The volatile weather, soaring temperatures and sky-high pollen counts will unleash a potent cocktail upon millions of hay fever sufferers.
Airborne allergens expert Max Wiseberg told the Daily Star: ?With this fine weather thunderstorms are also predicted, and they can bring problems for hay fever sufferers. Very high pollen counts are predicted across many parts of England from Thursday onwards causing havoc for the millions of hay-fever sufferers in the UK.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/experts-warn-brits-could-hit-24171369
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From Nature, today:
More than 120 confirmed or suspected cases of monkeypox, a rare viral disease seldom detected outside Africa, have been reported in at least 11 non-African countries in the past week. The emergence of the virus in separate populations around the world, in locations where it doesn?t usually appear has alarmed scientists ? and sent them racing for answers.
?It?s eye-opening to see this kind of spread,? says Anne Rimoin, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, who has studied monkeypox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than a decade.
Smallpox and other viruses plagued humans much earlier than suspected
The virus is called monkeypox because researchers first detected it in laboratory monkeys in 1958, but it is thought to transmit to people from wild animals such as rodents or from other infected people. In an average year, a few thousand cases occur in Africa, typically in the western and central parts of the continent. But cases outside Africa have previously been limited to a handful that were associated with travel to Africa or with the importation of infected animals. The number of cases detected outside of Africa in the past week alone ? which is almost certain to increase ? has already surpassed the total number detected outside the continent since 1970, when the virus was first found to cause disease in humans. This rapid spread is what has scientists on high alert.
But monkeypox is no SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, says Jay Hooper, a virologist at the US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases in Fort Detrick, Maryland. It doesn?t transmit from person to person as readily, and because it is related to the smallpox virus, there are already treatments and vaccines on hand for curbing its spread. So although scientists are concerned ? because any new viral behaviour is worrying ? they are not panicked.
Unlike SARS-CoV-2, which spreads through tiny air-borne droplets called aerosols, monkeypox is thought to spread from close contact with bodily fluids, such as saliva from coughing. That means a person with monkeypox is likely to infect far fewer close contacts than someone with SARS-CoV-2, Hooper says. Both viruses can cause flu-like symptoms, but monkeypox also triggers enlarged lymph nodes and, eventually, distinctive fluid-filled lesions on the face, hands and feet. Most people recover from monkeypox in a few weeks without treatment.
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I thought I would have a quick look at this video, but ended up watching it all....................
From the Zoe study group............ "Can bread be healthy?" With Vanessa Kimbell and Tim Spector
Modern industrial processes designed to reduce the time and cost of baking mean today?s bread would be unrecognizable to our ancestors.
Today?s bread tastes good but has lost most of its nutritional content. With most of its fiber gone, and no time for bacteria to work its fermenting magic, bread has become a simple starch, rapidly turned into sugar in our blood and offering little to support our gut bacteria. For this reason, bread is increasingly demonized as an evil carb.
In today?s episode, Jonathan speaks to two authorities on the subject to ask: Can bread can ever be healthy?
Vanessa Kimbell is an author, founder of the sourdough school, and a specialist in bread nutrition and digestibility.
Professor Tim Spector is a co-founder at ZOE and one of the top 100 most cited scientists in the world.
If you want to uncover the right foods for your body, head to joinzoe.com/podcast and get 10% off your personalized nutrition program.
Video...... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PGyv3nDv9o
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WITH the cost of living on the increase, it seems that millennial parents based in Wales are feeling the effects of rising prices as they strive to provide their children with the best possible nutrition.
In fact, new research has shown that 78 per cent of parents in Wales are prioritising their children?s health above their own.
The research shows that 28 per cent of Welsh parents are more conscious of their child/children?s nutritional health in the wake of the cost of living crisis.
Similarly, 13 per cent of millennial parents living in Wales said that they buy more vitamin supplements than they did before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking to gain advice in a more cost-savvy way, 60 per cent of parents in Wales stated that they are grateful for free health advice on social media platforms.
Indeed, 28 per cent of parents are utilising free platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, MumsNet and DadsNet to seek out honest, relatable and reliable nutritional advice for their children, with 65 per cent added that they only trust advice which comes from an experienced industry expert.
When it comes to spending habits, it seems that wellness remains a core focus for parents in Wales and that this is shaping their shopping habits, with 18 per cent of parents purchasing more health and wellness products than they did before the pandemic.
Read more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20585360.welsh-parents-not-prioritising-health-cost-living-rises-research-finds/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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All children aged one to nine and living in Greater London will be offered a polio vaccine after the virus was detected in sewage.
The virus, which can cause paralysis, has been found 116 times in London's wastewater since February.
The urgent immunisation campaign will see nearly a million children offered the vaccine - including those already up to date with their jabs.
Parents and carers will be contacted by their GP within the next month.
Polio is seen as a disease of the past in the UK after the whole of Europe was declared polio-free in 2003.
What is polio and how can you protect yourself?
However, what is happening now is slightly complicated as the samples detected are linked to a polio vaccine used in other countries.
Parts of the world still dealing with polio outbreaks use the oral polio vaccine - which is safe, but uses a live virus. This gives a huge amount of immunity, but has the potential to spread from person to person in areas where not a lot of people are protected.
This becomes a problem if it continues to spread, as the safe form of the virus used in the vaccine can mutate and evolve until it can once again lead to paralysis.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says most of the samples detected are the safe vaccine form of polio, but "a few" have mutated enough to be dangerous.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-62492784
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From the Zoe group...
What are added sugars, and where are they hidden?
Scientists now know that eating excessive amounts of added sugar can increase the risk of obesity. And obesity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions.
In the distant past, this wasn?t an issue for humans ? sugary snacks were few and far between. Nowadays, we can buy sugar-packed foods whenever we fancy them.
Read more https://joinzoe.com/learn/added-sugars-where-are-they-hidden?utm_source=uk_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_week12&utm_content=2-12-3
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Cholesterol is a household name. And its got a bad reputation. But is this justified?
Todays ZOE Digest unravels the complexities of cholesterol and unwraps the latest science.
Can eating oats help manage cholesterol levels?
Despite its reputation, cholesterol is essential for health. But, as with all things in health and nutrition, its complicated.
Because cholesterol is so crucial, everyone has high levels. For instance, every single cell is surrounded by a membrane partly built from cholesterol.
When doctors talk about ?high cholesterol,? they mean that its present at high levels in your blood.
Its normal to have some cholesterol in there, but too much of the wrong type increases the risk of heart disease.
Types of cholesterol cont https://joinzoe.com/learn/can-eating-oats-reduce-cholesterol?utm_source=uk_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_week14&utm_content=2-14-2
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A health expert has revealed the consequences of vaping, and how e-cigarettes could affect your health in the future.
Vaping researcher Lynne Dawkins said that ?harmful compounds? had been found in the vapour, though their levels were much lower than the toxic elements found in tobacco smoke.
Dr Dawkins said: ?If cigarettes were introduced to the market today, we'd know straight away that these are extremely harmful because technology and methods have improved so much.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23078601.vaping-e-cigarette-health-impact-revealed-expert/
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Intense physical activity has increased heart health benefits, research has found. *cycle*
Researchers in Leicester, Cambridge and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) used activity trackers to monitor 88,000 people.
The research showed there was a greater reduction in cardiovascular disease risk when activity was of at least moderate intensity.
Researchers said more intense activity had a "substantial" benefit.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-63413015
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Good advice if you can afford it ?
COLD temperatures in the home are linked to worse health outcomes, confirms a new report by Public Health Wales.
The research found exposure to temperatures of 18?C or below were associated with negative effects on health including those related to heart and lung health, sleep, physical performance and general health. Older people and those with long-term health problems were more vulnerable to negative impacts from cold temperatures.
For example, indoor temperatures at or below 18.2?C were associated with increased severity of symptoms in patients with chronic respiratory problems.
However, no association was observed between indoor temperature and viral infections for healthy adults and children in winter.
Hayley Janssen, Public Health Researcher at Public Health Wales, said: ?The overall evidence suggests that households will avoid many of the health risks associated with cold homes if they generally maintain home temperatures of 18?C or above, which is the minimum temperature to which the WHO and UK authorities, including Wales currently recommend the general population heat their homes. As temperatures dip below 18?C some health risks gradually increase but these can vary with vulnerability and age.
?Our research did also show that there are significant gaps in the evidence ? such as the effects of colder temperatures on children and young people, the long-term health and well-being effects of exposure to low indoor temperatures and the impact of cold indoor temperatures on mental health and well-being.?
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23155130.temperature-homes-heated-health/
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People are getting sicker owing to decades of spending cuts, "decimated" public services and the current cost-of-living crisis, doctors have warned. A new report from the British Medical Association (BMA) said medics are struggling to cope with demand from patients whose health conditions are being made worse by poverty, poor housing, lack of heating and skipping meals.
Around half of GP appointments are taken up with often preventable, long-term conditions, while medics spend around 20% of their time dealing with issues that are "non-medical but related to social or economic pressures". The report warned that the UK is "facing multiple threats to its health and the Government is failing to respond".
In the study, the BMA argued that the nation?s health was already deteriorating before Covid hit, including through a decade of austerity, widening inequalities and cuts to public services and public health. The amount of time people spend in poor health has increased, while the gap in healthy life expectancy between the most and least deprived areas is now almost 20 years, it said.
"The pandemic made matters substantially worse, and the current cost-of-living crisis will also have considerable implications for people?s health," the report added. "Higher levels of fuel poverty and food insecurity will make matters worse as the NHS will likely incur greater demand from the effects of more people being forced into increasingly precarious lives."
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/people-getting-sicker-due-cost-25645397?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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What is Strep A and what are the symptoms to look out for?
Health officials say parents should be aware of an infection called Strep A, after children in the UK died from it.
Since Covid restrictions eased, there are more opportunities for infections like this to spread. Cases have been increasing in recent weeks.
While most people do not get extremely sick, the highly contagious bacteria that causes the infection can cause serious illness and complications.
What is Strep A? cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63836093
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I had my Covid jab at the doctor's surgery yesterday and everything went . It was busy there and very well organised but I was taken aback when the nurse advised me that about 100 people in the morning failed to turn up for their appointment.
I'm just lost for words as I didn't know that there were so many ignorant people about in just one surhery
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Hugo, a lot of selfish people who do not appreciate what is being done to help the country, check out the Covid news page for better news.
PS
Scientists have uncovered the biological reason why colds are more prevalent in colder temperatures. A study suggests the newly discovered immune response inside the nose is suppressed by colder temperatures, and the illnesses are not more common simply because people are stuck indoors.
Scientists say this finding offers the first biological evidence for why respiratory illnesses like colds, flu and Covid-19 are more likely to spike when the temperature drops. The upper respiratory tract (nose, mouth and throat) is the primary way people get infected through either inhaling the bug or depositing it with their hands.
And researchers at Mass Eye and Ear hospital and Northeastern University in America have discovered a previously unidentified immune response inside the nose that fights off viruses responsible for upper respiratory infections. Further testing revealed this response becomes blocked in the cold. ........I wonder if mask wearing would help ?
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/cold-cure-horizon-scientists-work-25682936?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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For the past 2 years everywhere we have visited , Ferries Supermarkets, Hotels, Shops etc we have been urged to use the disinfectant sprays provided before entering or touching anything.
Why has this practice been dropped ?
A trip to Oban last week and all the hand cleaning sprays had been withdrawn. Is it the same in North Wales ?
I would have thought it was a good idea to continue this . It cannot do any harm, and might help protect against bugs.
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I believe so in commercial situations, however it has been reinstated in the NHS and the care settings, but we carry our own, so maybe we missed the hygiene stations.
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Measles declared an imminent global threat by World Health Organization
A record number of nearly 40 million children missed at least one measles vaccine dose in 2021
Measles is a viral respiratory illness. Transmission is similar to COVID, with the spread between people being driven by respiratory droplets and aerosols (airborne transmission). The infection produces a rash and fever in mild cases.
The measles vaccine, which can be administered by itself or in combination with other vaccinations such as mumps and rubella to make up the MMR immunisation, is very effective. Most countries have a two-dose schedule, with the first jab usually given at 12 months of age and the second dose when the child is four years old.
The vaccine provides very high and long-lasting protection, and really is a model example of the term ?vaccine-preventable disease?. The two-dose schedule gives about 99% protection against measles infection.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/measles-declared-imminent-global-threat-25700662?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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As the UK continues to get colder and colder, there have been reports of the dreaded lurgy sweeping through the nation - and it's the "worst in years" some say. Temperatures have plunged to -7C in North Wales this week and it's been twice as cold in Scotland with one town in Aberdeenshire recording a low of -15.7C.
It's a cruel irony that when spirits are at their highest - Christmas time - it is also the easiest time to fall ill and have the festive fun extinguished with one swift cough. This year however has seen some off work for weeks, which is uncommon for the common cold.
A cold should only last a few days, which has led some to fear this might be the worst yet. That said, there are some ways in which you can speed up the healing process, and at least make yourself a little more uncomfortable throughout the recovery period.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/itv-presenter-suffers-worst-lurgy-25747447
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Just a thought but when we all had to wear masks during the Covid outbreak there didn't seem to be any outbreaks of cold or flu.
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Just a thought but when we all had to wear masks during the Covid outbreak there didn't seem to be any outbreaks of cold or flu.
$good$
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New Strep A symptoms checker for parents in Wales as NHS 111 helpline overwhelmed by worried callers
Public Health Wales hopes its guidance will help parents decide the best course of action when they are concerned about their children
Public Health Wales hopes its symptoms checker will help parents decide whether to treat their child at home or to seek medical advice. It uses a traffic light system to show parents at what stage they should consider calling NHS 111 Wales or their GP.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/new-strep-symptoms-checker-parents-25749972?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Todays ZOE Digest tackles topics that have been doing the rounds on the news, social media and beyond: Strep A and scarlet fever.
Strep A infections are common and have been on the rise for some time, so why are people talking about it now?
As with much of the chatter surrounding infectious diseases these days, its challenging to get a handle on the facts theres a lot of misinformation circulating on the internet.
In this weeks episode of the ZOE Science & Nutrition podcast, we will help you make sense of it all.
We are joined by a renowned expert on strep A, Prof. Shiranee Sriskandan, from Imperial College London?s Department of Infectious Disease.
We will also hear from ZOEs scientific co-founder, Tim Spector, a professor of genetic epidemiology at King's College London and one of the worlds leading researchers.
Tim also shares his top tips for supporting your immune system.
Today, we ask:
What are the main symptoms to look out for?
What does a scarlet fever rash feel like?
Are we close to a vaccine?
How do you treat strep A?
Read the transcript of the conversation here.............
https://joinzoe.com/learn/podcast-should-we-be-worried-about-strep-a?utm_source=uk_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_week32&utm_content=2-32-2
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Foods to lower your cholesterol
More than half of us have high cholesterol ? and new research suggests that having even slightly raised levels in our 30s could significantly increase our chances of developing heart disease.
Medication is a common fix, but it comes with side effects. So, today we?re looking at how much changing our diets can help.
In this short (ish) episode of ZOE Science & Nutrition, Jonathan and Sarah ask: Can we lower our cholesterol by changing our diets?
Follow ZOE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoe/
If you want to uncover the right foods for your body, head to joinzoe.com/podcast and get 10% off your personalized nutrition program.
Studies referenced in the episode:
?Association between Carbohydrate Intake and Serum Lipids? from the Journal of the American Nutrition Association here?The Mediterranean Diet And Cardioprotection: Historical Overview And Current Research from the Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare here?Direct comparison of dietary portfolio vs statin on C-reactive protein? from the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition here
Podcast https://link.chtbl.com/s9cwxMzY
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Full list of flu mass vaccination centres in North Wales where you can get free jabs without booking
The centres, for adults and children, are in addition to GP surgeries and pharmacies
Conwy and Denbighshire flu drop-in clinics
Adult flu clinics (aged 16+)
The Optic Centre, Ffordd William Morgan, St Asaph, LL17 0JD
Start date: Mon, 16 Jan, 2023.
Mondays and Thursdays, 8.30am-7pm.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10am-5pm.
Sector House, 141 Argyll, Road, Llandudno
Start date: Mon, 16 Jan, 2023.
Mondays and Thursdays from 8.30am-7pm.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10am-5pm.
full list https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/full-list-flu-mass-vaccination-25996671?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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If you think the FLU is a bad cold, read this story............
A "SUPER-FIT" teenager who needed intensive care treatment after contracting flu has thanked the hospital teams who saved his life.
Jack Hollingsworth, 19, was rushed into Ysbyty Gwynedd?s Emergency Department on the afternoon of December 15, 2022 after he became severely unwell at his home in Llangristiolus, Anglesey.
He was assessed by medics who recommended he was placed into a coma and cared for in the Intensive Care Unit as a matter of urgency.
Describing the days leading up to the harrowing moment that led to their arrival at the hospital, his mother, Claire Hollingsworth, said: ?Jack had been unwell for a few days, we all thought it was a bad cold or even Covid.
?Jack is super fit, having just completed an advanced diploma in outdoor activities but he demonstrated how a young person can become suddenly overwhelmed by influenza once they reach a point that their immune system burns out. At this point, he deteriorated from a boy with a flu like illness to severely unwell in the space of a couple of hours.
?It was a reminder of how dangerous flu can be, even for those who are young and fit and we would continue to encourage anyone who is eligible to get their flu jab after seeing what it nearly did to our son,? added Claire.
cont https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/23276271.super-fit-anglesey-teenager-nearly-dies-flu/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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How many years was it before they told us smoking cigarettes was harmfully dangerous................
Keep vapes out of sight of children in shops
Vapes should be kept out of sight of children in shops and the legal minimum age of 18 should be marked clearly on each product, say councils in England.
Too many children are being illegally sold vapes with fruity flavours and colourful packaging, they say.
Doctors have warned of the potential long-term effects of vaping on the lungs, and are calling for tighter rules on packaging and advertising.
Vapes should only be used by smokers who want to give up tobacco.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64597395
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This is something I suffered from in my teenage years, fortunately for me it faded away, but I still recall the bad days, and sympathise with those who suffer today.
Why migraines can get worse in spring - and four foods that could help
Weather changes associated with migraines include bright sunlight, extreme temperatures, storms and changes in pressure
Despite the fact that migraines affect 1 in 5 women and 1 in 15 men, GP, Dr Sameer Sanghvi, says there is a lack of public understanding when it comes to this health condition. Dr Sanghvi has explained seven little-understood facts about migraines from why they may be more prevalent in spring to how they can be prevented.
Although common, Dr Sameer Sanghvi of Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor believes there is a lack of public understanding about migraines. To combat this, the GP explains seven little-understood facts about this health condition:
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/migraines-can-worse-spring-four-26289023?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Hay Fever sufferers are being urged to take action and be prepared amid the start of the 'severe season'.
The warning comes as 'alarming' levels of pollen are expected to arrive as the warmer weather hits much of the UK, with this year expecting pollen to be 'higher than usual'.
Many who suffer from hay fever may have already started to experience what comes along with the allergy.
Including the likes of itchy and watery eyes, sore throats, sneezing and for some, difficulty breathing.
Now the warning has come as there's set to be the highest levels of birch pollen.
According to Allergy UK, birch pollen " typically causes allergic rhinitis symptoms in the nose and eyes, but can also cause symptoms in the oral /pharyngeal mucosa referred to as Pollen Food Syndrome or oral allergy syndrome."
The University of Worcester's Dr Beverley Adams-Groom has warned of the high levels of birch pollen, sharing: "We have already seen the hazel and alder tree pollen allergens, which flower in late winter, produce and emit particularly high amounts of pollen this year," she said.
"The only limiting factor could be if we have a particularly wet April, which might limit pollen dispersal, but assuming we have a normal level of rainfall... the result will be a severe season."
Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen and is highly dependent on weather conditions.
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I am a great believer in the beneficial properties of honey, I drink two honey, lemon and ginger drinks every day, summer and winter.
Cardiff scientists look at honey as drug alternative
Honey has been used for thousands of years to treat wounds, but scientists are now using it in a search for alternatives to antimicrobial drugs.
It follows concern about infections caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotics.
"We need to do something innovative, otherwise we face the scenario where we return to the pre-antibiotic stage," said a Cardiff University expert.
Antibiotic resistance is described as a major threat to global human health.
According to the largest study to date and published in the Lancet medical magazine, more than 1.2 million people died worldwide in 2019 as a direct result of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
"We're seeing bacteria that has evolved, that is resistant to almost all antibiotics, and we are reaching the stage where the cupboard is empty," said Prof Les Baillie from the university's School of Pharmacy.
"Before antibiotics we used herbal and traditional remedies to treat diseases.
"We have gone back to these traditional remedies to see if we can learn from our ancestors."
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65233103
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Skin cancer: Health warning as non-melanoma cases rise
The rise in non-melanoma skin cancer cases in Wales is very concerning, Public Health Wales has said.
Figures show a 7% increase over four years, with the rate the highest across the UK nations.
One woman said she was "shocked" by her cancer diagnosis, despite having spent a lot of time tanning in the sun.
The British Association of Dermatologists said the tanning "fashion" and fair skin were among the reasons for the high number of cases.
Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common form of cancer in Wales, ahead of prostate cancer.
The name non-melanoma distinguishes more common types of skin cancer from the less common and potentially more serious type of the disease known as melanoma.
PHW figures show the number of NMSC cases increased by 7.1% between 2016 and 2019 - from 13,369 to 15,102.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65399970
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I can vouch for that Steve as I have had five minor surgery operations for skin cancer since lockdown and any day soon I'll be going for a 6th minor op.
I've been lucky because I haven't had to have chemo or radiotherapy and not one was melanoma thank goodness.
The only advice I can give is to put factor 50 sunscreen on and wear protection on your head. I wear a wide brimmed hat if possible when I'm out walking now but otherwise a cap but the cap didn't stop me getting skin cancer on both ears
Enjoy the sunshine but remember the Sun is still strong even in the UK
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Sorry to hear your news, a few of my old golfing buddies have the same problem, I have been lucky so far, but my older skin cannot take the sun as before, by coincidence we have placed an order yesterday, for a new umbrella and canopy.
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I signed up with ZOE Prof Tim Spectors Health Science and Nutrition programme, and have received regular updates on various subjects over the last year, I will post the link below on todays subject, but if you are interested there are other links in the heading, you can listen to the Podcasts or read the long or short versions of the transcript.......
Omega-3 supplements: Why you're (probably) wasting your money
COVID-app-1
Written by
ZOE Editorial Staff
Fish oil. The name doesn?t sound too appealing. But surprisingly, these supplements and their more pleasantly named constituents, omega-3s, are a topic of much debate.
You've probably seen omega-3s advertised on labels, from nuts to seeds, and even eggs. But are these fats really healthy for us, or is this just another food myth?
In today?s short episode of ZOE Science & Nutrition, Jonathan and Sarah ask: Is your fish oil and omega-3 intake so important?
cont https://joinzoe.com/learn/podcast-omega-3-supplements
I would be interested to know if there is interest in future posts from ZOE
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A "very concerning" rise in the number of people catching A "very concerning" rise in the number of people catching measles in the UK has been reported by health officials.
The virus spreads incredibly easily and a fall in vaccination rates is leaving more children vulnerable to infection.
There were 54 cases of measles in the whole of last year. However, there have already been 49 in the first four months of 2023.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date.
The main symptoms of measles are a fever and a rash. But it can cause more serious complications including meningitis, and an infection can be fatal.
That is why the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of routine childhood immunisations.in the UK has been reported by health officials.
The virus spreads incredibly easily and a fall in vaccination rates is leaving more children vulnerable to infection.
There were 54 cases of measles in the whole of last year. However, there have already been 49 in the first four months of 2023.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date.
The main symptoms of measles are a fever and a rash. But it can cause more serious complications including meningitis, and an infection can be fatal.
That is why the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of routine childhood immunisations.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65481976
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Scrap tax on sunscreen, say cancer charities
Value added tax - better known as VAT - should be scrapped on sunscreen to make it more affordable, say several UK cancer charities.
Sunscreen is classified as a "cosmetic" product and carries a 20% tax, adding around ?1.50 to the cost of a bottle.
Charities want high-factor protective creams to be VAT exempt, citing the cost-of-living crisis which has seen many struggling to buy essential items.
Most skin cancers are caused by sun damage.
There are several types of skin cancer, and melanoma is the most dangerous, as well as the most common type among young people in the UK - with cases on the rise.
If untreated, the cancer can spread to other areas of the body.
Sunbeds also increase the risk of skin cancer, with some delivering greater doses of UV rays than the midday tropical sun.
"Few realise that getting painful sunburn just once every two years can triple your risk of skin cancer," said Dr Louise Soanes, Chief Nurse, Teenage Cancer Trust.
"Preventing skin cancer by using an effective sun cream is essential - and sun cream shouldn't be a luxury that only some can afford."
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65557091
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Not quite NHS, but Good Luck to her, it will be a great help to a lot of people................
A WOMAN from Rhyl is preparing to launch her own domestic cleaning business for homes across North Wales.
Kerry Kennealey, 33, hopes to have ?KK Cleaning? up and running by the end of May.
She will be running the business as well as continuing her role as a support worker for ?Age Connects North Wales Central?, a charity providing services for those aged 50+, their families and their carers.
Further down the line, Kerry hopes to expand her business by also offering a companionship service, something she is already involved in through her work with Age Connects.
Kerry said: ?I enjoy what I do with Age Connects as well, but for my own mental health, I decided that I wanted to start my own business.
?It will cover Rhyl, and probably up to 15-20 miles outside of Rhyl, so it will be quite a vast area.
?At the moment, I check in with people if their loved ones are on holiday, and sit and have a cup of tea and a chat with them. That?s the service that I?m wanting to offer in the future, as well.?
If you are interested in getting in touch with Kerry regarding her cleaning business, you can visit her Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092511313887.
As well as being DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service)-checked, she is also COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)-trained.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23529949.rhyl-woman-start-domestic-cleaning-business-across-north-wales/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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An update on Vitamin D doses, as most know, I believe in this vitamin and its aid to immunity, most of it posted on the Covid thread, with links to Dr John Campbell, here is his latest short video.... with results from increased doses of Vit. D.........
486,559 views 15 May 2023
Daily oral dosing of vitamin D3 using 5000 TO 50,000 international units a day in long-term hospitalized patients:
Insights from a seven year experience taken from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30611908/
cont video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3_t-EQIy0s
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More on Vitamin D........
Daily dose of common vitamin can cut cancer death risk by 12%, new study finds
'Vitamin D3 supplementation probably does not protect against developing cancer, but it could reduce the likelihood of dying from cancer'
A daily dose of vitamin D could 'reduce the likelihood' of dying from cancer by up to 12 per cent, according to a new study conducted by German researchers.
The researchers analysed 14 studies comprising 105,000 people, with around 15 per cent being vitamin D deficient over a year. The figure rose to 59 per cent amongst colorectal cancer patients and was aligned with poor prognoses, reports HullLive.
The human body creates the vitamin when exposed to sunlight, but it is also present in oily fish like salmon, red meat, liver and egg yolks. The common vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in cancer patients, with researchers observing a 'statistically significant' 12 per cent reduction in cancer mortality amongst the ten studies that included daily dosing.
Researchers only investigated high-quality studies, with participants randomly assigned to the vitamin D3 or placebo arm when studying the vitamin's effectiveness. They discovered that a daily low dose of 400 to 4,000 IU (international units) daily was more effective than a larger dose of 60,000 to 120,000 IU once monthly or less. I use 2,000 IU per day, every day, summer and winter
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/daily-dose-common-vitamin-can-26956430?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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A doctor told me recently that it was safe to take up to 4000iu of Vitamin D3 a day. I take 2000iu all year round.
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Vaping: High lead and nickel found in illegal vapes
Vapes confiscated from school pupils contain high levels of lead, nickel and chromium, BBC News has found.
Used vapes gathered at Baxter College in Kidderminster were tested in a laboratory.
The results showed children using them could be inhaling more than twice the daily safe amount of lead, and nine times the safe amount of nickel.
Some vapes also contained harmful chemicals like those in cigarette smoke.
High levels of lead exposure in children can affect the central nervous system and brain development, according to the World Health Organization.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65614078
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Update on above..........How many years was it before we knew the harm cigarettes caused :o
A teacher has called for the UK to take "a leaf out of Australia's book" by bringing in stricter laws on vaping.
Under new laws in Australia vapes will be available by prescription only.
Teacher and union secretary UCAC Chris Shaw added: "They as a country banned vapes for everybody except those on plans from their GPs and that seems to be a sensible way forward."
On Tuesday, the UK government said it would close a loophole allowing shops to give free vape samples to children.
The Welsh government said it would publish its plan for preventing children and young people vaping.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65753868
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The NHS is set to offer a medicated wafer that dissolves under the tongue to help prevent debilitating migraines.
Rimegepant, taken every other day, will be available only to adults who have tried at least three other preventative drugs and still have migraines on between four and 15 days every month.
It stops a protein that causes severe pain being released around the brain.
About 145,000 people a year could be offered it - but campaigners say some who could benefit may miss out.
Injections can target the same protein, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) - but this is the first oral option. And other medications - including beta-blockers, antidepressants and epilepsy drugs - do not work for everyone.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65766225
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Could ultra-processed foods be harmful for us?
Twenty years ago, no-one had heard of the term ultra-processed foods - or UPF - but about half the things we now eat in the UK are made that way.
From sliced brown bread to ready meals and ice cream, it is a group of foods made with varying - but often substantial - levels of industrial processing. Ingredients used, such as preservatives, artificial sweeteners and emulsifiers, do not typically feature in home cooking.
"Ultra-processed foods are among the most profitable foods companies can make," says Prof Marion Nestle, a food politics expert and professor of nutrition at New York University.
As our consumption of ultra-processed foods go up - the UK is one of the biggest consumers per head in Europe - so have rates of diabetes and cancer.
Some academics think the link is not coincidental.
Prof Tim Spector, is a professor of epidemiology at King's College London, who studies trends in disease.
He told BBC Panorama: "In the last decade, the evidence has been slowly growing that ultra-processed food is harmful for us in ways we hadn't thought.
"We're talking about a whole variety of cancers, heart disease, strokes, dementia."
Ultra-Processed Food: A Recipe For Ill-Health?
Ultra-processed convenience foods contain chemicals that UK regulators say are safe, but Panorama investigates emerging scientific evidence of a link between some of these chemicals and cancer, diabetes and strokes.
Watch on BBC iPlayer now, or on BBC One at 20:00 BST on Monday 5 June (20:30 in Northern Ireland and 23:10 in Wales)
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65754290
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There's been a lot of disquiet about ultra-processed foods for some time, and one major worry is that they make a big play of low calorie counts, yet seem to add weight. It's a major reason why there's a growing tide of people questioning if artificial sweeteners, as as those used in 'no cal' fizzy drinks, cause the body to add weight.
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Scientists say salt intake could be linked to risk of dementia - how you can reduce your likelihood
The development of dementia is closely associated with changes in blood flow, making high salt intake a potential risk factor for this disease, reporting by Ellen Jenne
https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/scientists-say-salt-intake-could-be-linked-to-risk-of-dementia-how-you-can-reduce-your-likelihood/
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More than 122,650 people visited the NHS website seeking hay-fever advice last week, as the pollen count hit some of its highest levels this year.
Weekly visitors to the site's hay-fever advice pages have tripled in the past five weeks, NHS England says, with one visit every three seconds on Sunday.
The allergy usually strikes from late March to September, when it is warm, windy and humid and pollen counts high.
There is no cure but over-the-counter medication can manage most symptoms.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65881737
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With temperatures rising and the increase of idiotic behaviour, this will become a major problem, as experienced in North America recently.....
Concerns over health risks of wildfire smoke
Smoke and ash from wildfires in Wales is being studied by scientists who are trying to determine the health risks.
Researchers from Swansea University are developing a wildfire danger rating system for the UK which will predict fires further in advance.
Prof Stefan Doerr, who is leading the project, said smoke from wildfires can affect people's health and contaminate water supplies.
There have been 494 wildfires so far this year in Wales, with the added risk that the ash can contain higher than usual levels of heavy metals.
One fire at Rhigos mountain in Rhondda Cynon Taf burned for seven days and damaged more than 100 acres of land.
It was one of five major incidents that South Wales Fire and Rescue Service was dealing with at the time, meanwhile Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service had six.
The smoke and ash left behind is now the focus of a team of scientists at the Centre for Wildfire Research, who have been taking water samples at Rhigos to check the impact on drinking water quality.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4ne41ple1ko
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Supermarket trolleys with a special sensor fitted to the handles can help spot a hidden heart-rhythm condition that increases the risk of stroke, a trial has found.
Researchers in Liverpool asked local stores to stock the modified trolleys, which scan customers' grip pulses for any irregularities while they shop.
More than 2,000 shoppers used them.
During the two months of the study, 39 people were newly identified as having atrial fibrillation (AF).
They were referred on to see a heart doctor for advice.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65983627
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The times they are a changing.............
Mosquito-borne diseases becoming increasing risk in Europe
Mosquitoes that carry viruses like dengue and chikungunya have moved into new parts of Europe, increasing the risk of illness, top experts warn.
European scientists say more frequent heatwaves and flooding, and longer, warmer summers, have created more favourable conditions for the bugs.
They are calling for better measures to control and protect against mosquitoes.
Without these, more illness and deaths from mosquito-borne diseases are likely, they say.
The report, by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), tracks the spread of different species of mosquitoes that can carry and transmit a number different of viruses to humans.
These include dengue and Zika - which can cause a range of symptoms such as fevers and muscle aches, and in the worst cases make people extremely ill.
The ECDC report suggests this year, the Aedes albopictus mosquito (known to carry dengue and chikungunya) "established" itself in 13 countries in Europe - meaning it has developed a self-sustaining population that is reproducing - compared with eight European countries a decade ago.
Meanwhile, last year, Aedes aegypti, which can spread diseases such as yellow fever, Zika and West Nile virus, became established in Cyprus, and scientists warn it may continue to spread to other countries.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65985838
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A woman who became addicted to vaping at the age of 16 has warned of the struggles she has faced, claiming e-cigarettes have ruined her life.
Belle Moore, now 19, from Bickerstaffe, Lancashire, said she felt she has "no control over it" and now needed to vape every couple of hours.
"I start to get shaky and it's almost all I can think of," she said.
She has revealed her story after public health bosses called on the government to do more to stop young people vaping.
Belle said she started vaping through peer-pressure from some of her college friends, and used to hide it from her mother.
She has since made two unsuccessful attempts to stop vaping but says she has now also become addicted to cigarettes.
"It honestly feels like I have no control over it," she told BBC North West Tonight.
She said she was able to buy vapes at 16 at a shop, which did not ask for identification even though she looked much younger than her age.
It is currently illegal to sell vapes to anyone under the age of 18.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-66003264
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BBC Panorama programme on Ultra Processed Foods
The UK is facing a chronic illness epidemic, with diabetes rates at record levels and cancers in young people rising steeply. Now, there?s growing evidence suggesting this could be linked to the food we eat. Ultra-processed convenience foods contain chemicals that UK regulators say are safe, but Panorama investigates emerging scientific evidence of a link between some of these chemicals and cancer, diabetes and strokes.
Video Duration29 mins First shown5 Jun 2023Available for 11 months https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001mp67/panorama-ultraprocessed-food-a-recipe-for-ill-health
What?s the deal with UPFs?
UPFs typically contain lots of added salt, sugar, fat, and industrial chemical additives (those strange-looking ingredients listed on the back) ? think crisps, breakfast cereals, and reconstituted meats.
They contain fewer healthy nutrients, like fibre and polyphenols (a ground of compounds that occur naturally in plants).
They tend to be eaten very quickly, 50% more quickly than unprocessed foods, which means that we tend to overeat them (research shows by about 500kcal/d!). Overconsumption of UPFs is linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers.
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Common sweetener 'to be listed as possible cancer risk' by WHO
Reports suggest the sweetener will be listed as ?possibly carcinogenic to humans?
An artificial sweetener commonly used in thousands of products including diet fizzy drinks, ice cream and chewing gum is to be listed as posing a possible cancer risk to humans, according to reports. Aspartame will be listed as ?possibly carcinogenic to humans? from next month based on the findings of the World Health Organisation?s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
The IARC is preparing to label the sweetener as ?possibly carcinogenic to humans?, Reuters reported based on ?two sources with knowledge of the process?. This would mean that there is some evidence linking aspartame to cancer, but that it is limited. The IARC has two more serious categories, ?probably carcinogenic to humans? and ?carcinogenic to humans?.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/common-sweetener-to-listed-possible-27229932
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London could see tens of thousands of measles cases due to low levels of vaccination, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned.
Mathematical calculations suggest an outbreak could affect between 40,000 and 160,000 people.
Higher levels of immunisation in the rest of the UK means there is a "low risk" of a large epidemic elsewhere.
But the UKHSA said there was an "urgent" need to vaccinate children, teenagers and young adults.
Levels of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations in the UK are at their lowest level in a decade, with around one in ten children not protected by the time they start primary school.
Immunisations also took a significant dip in the early 2000s after claims of a link between the MMR jab and autism. This has been completely discredited and the doctor who pushed the idea, Andrew Wakefield, was struck off the medical register.
But measles is one of the most contagious diseases around, and growing numbers of people are without protection. Scientists at the UKHSA and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine have run the numbers to reach those predictions of tens of thousands of cases in the capital.
This is a theoretical risk, rather than saying we are already at the start of a huge measles outbreak. There have been 128 cases so far this year, compared with 54 in the whole of 2022.
But the latest risk assessment suggests the R number - if you remember from Covid that's the number of people an infected person gives the virus to - has exceeded, or is close to 1.0, which is the point where a virus can take off.
The assessment also highlights 19 to 25-year-olds - who would have missed out at the peak of the autism scare - as being the most susceptible. There is heightened concern around university students.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66200444
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Health chiefs list six bird flu symptoms as two more people catch virus which is sweeping Europe
There have been four confirmed cases in the UK as outbreak is 'largest ever observed'
Two more people in the UK have been diagnosed with H5N1A bird flu bringing the total to four. Government health chiefs have warned that the virus can be difficult to spot in humans.
The four cases in the UK have been confirmed since March, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), reports the Mirror. Bird flu has reportedly been recorded in record levels across Europe, with the European Food Safety Authority warning back in December that the ongoing epidemic was the "largest ever observed in Europe".
But British health advisors said it would react quickly if there was any detection of a bird flu epidemic in the UK.
Bird flu symptoms in humans
A person infected with bird flu will likely develop symptoms very quickly, according to the NHS.
The six earliest signs of infection include:
Diarrhoea
Sickness
Stomach pain
Chest pain
Bleeding from the nose and gums
Conjunctivitis
Full story https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/health-chiefs-list-six-bird-27337766
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Wales weather: No such thing as a healthy tan - dermatologist
There is no such thing as a healthy tan, according to a dermatologist who treats hundreds of cases of skin cancer every year.
One in four men and one in five women in the UK will be diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime.
In Wales, it makes up 47% of all cancers - the highest rate of all UK nations.
The damage is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, or UV, produced by the sun.
Dr Rachel Abbott, consultant dermatologist at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, said: "There is such thing as a healthy fake tan. But unfortunately, to induce tanning in the skin, you have to induce damage to the DNA in your skin cells.
"So there's no way of getting a healthy tan from the sun or from a sunbed."
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66245310
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One breakfast change can cut diabetes risk by 59% and it's easy
Scientists say the secret isn't down to changing what you eat
Having a late breakfast increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by nearly two thirds. Those who breakfasted after 9am were 59 per cent more likely to develop the condition than those who were done by 8am.
A late dinner, after 10pm, also increased the risk, while eating five times a day reduced it. Researchers looked at more than 100,000 people in France over a period of seven years.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/one-breakfast-change-can-cut-27366373?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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People struggle to estimate portion sizes for food such as chocolate, crisps and cheese, a survey of 1,265 Which? subscribers suggests.
They may need more help to assess how healthy products are, the consumer group says.
A third guessed a 185g (6.5oz) tube of Pringles contained two to four portions. But the packaging says it has six to seven - some 13 crisps each.
On a 220g box of Quality Street, the label suggests a portion is two sweets.
Unrealistic recommended serving sizes can mislead people into thinking they are consuming fewer calories, and less fat, sugar or salt, than they actually are, Which? says.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66325444
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Heatwave: How hot is too hot for the human body?
Sometimes it can feel like the world is on fire.
Europe has been baking in a heatwave nicknamed the settimana infernale - "week of hell" - in Italy. Temperatures above 50C have been recorded in China and the US, where body bags filled with ice are being used to cool hospital patients. The UK has just had its hottest ever June.
And in 2022, the UK recorded a temperature above 40C for the first time. Last year's heatwave has been blamed for 60,000 deaths across Europe.
It's no wonder the United Nations has warned we now live in the era of "global boiling".
"I think it's really important to realise it's no longer just something that's distant or far away from us or something in the future. We are really seeing it now," says Prof Lizzie Kendon from the Met Office.
So what does the changing climate mean for our bodies and our health?
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66249805
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Wales faces a "tidal wave of blindness" unless urgent improvements are made to the way specialist eye care is delivered, a leading doctor has said.
Latest figures show 75,000 people at greatest risk of losing their sight are waiting too long for treatment.
This number has almost doubled in just four years.
The Welsh government said it was improving access to eye care services, including opening new mobile theatres and community clinics.
RNIB Cymru said a shortage of specialists was making the "crisis" worse.
Jennifer Huggett from Pembrokeshire has had to give up many things she held dear because of her deteriorating eyesight.
"I was working in a charity shop and enjoying it and in the end I had to give it up because I couldn't read the labels," she said.
cont/stats https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66360224
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Health guru Dr Michael Mosley says eating one food every day, and trying one two-minute exercise, can help strengthen your bones. Dr Mosley, says he himself found his bones were not as strong as they could be while filming a series about healthy ageing last year.
The Fast800 diet creator said the best way to avoid osteoporosis - a medical condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures - is to get plenty of calcium in your diet and vitamin D from sun exposure or pills.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/dr-michael-mosley-says-one-27463113?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Fitness: Fewer than 5,000 steps a day enough to boost health - study
t has long been touted that 10,000 steps a day is the magic number you need to stay fit and healthy - but a new study shows fewer than 5,000 may be enough to see a benefit.
The analysis of more than 226,000 people around the world showed 4,000 was enough to start reducing the risk of dying prematurely of any cause.
Just over 2,300 is enough to benefit the heart and blood vessels.
The more you do, the more health benefits are seen, researchers said.
Every extra 1,000 steps beyond the 4,000 reduced the risk of dying early by 15% up to 20,000 steps.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66440424
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Messages encouraging UK smokers to quit could be placed inside packets of cigarettes under draft proposals being considered by the government.
The inserts would list the health and financial benefits of trying to stop and highlight support available, the Department of Health said.
They are already used in other countries including Canada and Israel,
According to the NHS, about 76,000 people in the UK die from smoking every year.
The numbers of smokers in the UK is at its lowest on record but about six million people, or 13% of the population, are still thought to have the habit, according to a survey carried out for the Office for National Statistics in 2021.
The government has pledged to end smoking in England by 2030, equating to reducing smoking rates to 5% or less of the population. Earlier this year experts predicted that target would be missed without further action.
Warnings have been printed on the outside of boxes for more than 50 years.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66494336
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Vapers warned they could develop a serious lung condition from their habit
Bronchitic symptoms were twice as likely among those who used the synthetic devices in the past 30 days
Vapers have been warned they could develop a serious lung condition. A study has warned vaping could spark bronchitis.
A study found participants were 81% more likely to wheeze if they had puffed e-cigarettes in the past 30 days, versus those who had never used the nicotine products. Bronchitic symptoms were twice as likely among those who used the synthetic devices in the past 30 days.
For the study, scientists analysed respiratory health in study participants between 2014 and 2018. 2,000 respondents completed a survey on tobacco products and respiratory symptoms in 2014 in 'wave one', when in in 11th and 12th grades.
Data was then taken from 1,609 participants the following year in wave 2, 1,502 in 2017 (wave 3) and 1,637 in 2018 (the final wave) through online surveys. Bronchitic symptoms were most commonly reported through each questionnaire - with 19.5%, 22.5%, 23.5% and 26% reporting these respectively.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/vapers-warned-could-develop-serious-27553076
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Nine foods people might not have realised could be ultra-processed
Growing evidence suggests chronic illnesses could be linked to what we eat, with ultra-processed foods under the spotlight
According to recent research, there's growing evidence suggesting chronic illnesses could be linked with the food we eat. And the focus has recently been on ultra-processed foods - products that typically have five or more ingredients.
They tend to include many additives and ingredients that are not typically used in home cooking, such as preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and artificial colours and flavours, reports WalesOnline. These foods generally have a long shelf life.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nine-foods-you-might-not-27619088
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Stress isn't just in your mind - here's how it affects different parts of the body
Doctors explain some of the physical symptoms to be aware of.
As the spotlight on mental health intensifies, more individuals are turning to mindfulness, meditation and talking therapies to combat stress. While these strategies can be effective, it's crucial to understand that stress isn't just 'all in your head' and that it can also have a significant physical impact.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/this-is-how-stress-affects-different-parts-of-the-body/
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Meditate to beat stress blood pressure, say guidelines
People should try to meditate for around 45 minutes every day to cut stress-related high blood pressure, say new guidelines.
Other tips from the International Society of Hypertension include taking time out to listen to music, doing yoga and practicing mindfulness.
Established medical advice - quit smoking and cut down on salt - still stands.
But experts say newer "body and mind" lifestyle goals can be recommended.
According to the position paper which is published in the Journal of Hypertension, there is enough scientific evidence for some less conventional approaches.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66807432
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The common Victorian era disease that is making a comeback - what to look out for
Gout, a type of arthritis, is caused by a chemical called uric acid forming small crystals, known as tophi, in and around the joints
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/common-victorian-era-disease-making-27730391
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Scarlet fever warning issued to parents as 28,500 cases recorded this year
The condition can be treated but can also lead to complications if not dealt with properly
By this time last year, 16,000 cases had been confirmed, before there was a sudden surge towards the end of the year, reports WalesOnline. The NHS said the first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands (a large lump on the side of your neck).
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/scarlet-fever-warning-issued-parents-27784559
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Did you know that to improve your health, you don't need to massively shift what you eat? By making small swaps, you can create new habits that add up to big changes to your health.
?Smart swaps? are when you replace less healthy things you regularly eat with equally delicious, healthier items.
It?s not necessary (or possible) to have a ?perfect? diet. But making small adjustments to the foods you already love can make them healthier and, often, more delicious.
We recently asked the ZOE community which swaps they?ve added to their routine. And Dr. Sarah Berry ? our chief scientist ? explains why these smart swaps are healthy choices.
cont https://zoe.com/learn/10-healthy-food-swaps-from-the-zoe-community?utm_source=uk_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_biweekly+2_zsn&utm_content=2-2-2
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11 questions you should ask your doctor to get a proper diagnosis
New research has shown that 84 per cent of people ignore medical problems
What questions should I ask to understand my condition and get a diagnosis?
What could be causing my symptoms?
Is my condition acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term)?
What tests or assessments will be needed to diagnose my condition?
What are the potential complications or risks associated with my condition?
Are there any lifestyle adjustments or self-care options that may help manage my condition?
Are there any medications or dietary changes I should consider?
How will this condition affect my daily life, including work and social activities?
Are there any support groups or resources available for people with my condition?
What should I do if my symptoms worsen or change over time?
Is there anything else I should know or consider about my condition?
Do I need to see a specialist?
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/11-questions-you-should-ask-your-doctor-to-get-a-proper-diagnosis/
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8 lesser-known signs of a heart attack you need to know
Swift medical attention can help prevent serious heart muscle damage and save lives
A recent survey has revealed alarming gaps in knowledge about heart attack symptoms among the British public. Almost half of the respondents admitted they wouldn't recognise the symptoms of a heart attack, with a startling 51 per cent of those over 55 stating they wouldn't be able to identify the signs.
Furthermore, 36 per cent of people indicated they wouldn't dial 999 if they or a loved one were experiencing chest pain, a common symptom of a heart attack. In response to these findings, NHS England has launched the 'Help Us, Help You' campaign.
While the most common symptom is chest pain, symptoms can vary from person to person. Other symptoms of a heart attack can include:.....https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heart-attack/
A feeling of pain, pressure, heaviness, tightness or squeezing across your chest
pain in other parts of the body - such as in the arms (usually the left arm, but it can affect both arms), jaw, neck, back and tummy
feeling lightheaded or dizzy
sweating
shortness of breath
feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)
an overwhelming feeling of anxiety (similar to a panic attack)
coughing or wheezing
Full article https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/eight-red-flag-signs-of-heart-attack-half-of-us-wouldnt-recognise/
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I am one of those affected by the darker winter months, it feels like I go into hibernation, I have even considered Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/overview/ so the other day I bought a daylight LED lamp, I will pass on my findings to those interested later.
Sleep expert explains why you feel so tired in the autumn
If you're struggling to get out of bed lately, it may be due to our biology 'working against us
A sleep expert has explained why many of us could be struggling to get out of bed in the autumn and outlined some tips to help us wake up feeling refreshed. With the nights drawing in and increasingly darker mornings, it's clear that winter is fast approaching, and you may have noticed you're feeling more tired.
It may seem that it's simply due to it being dark, as we sometimes feel like jumping out of bed on a sunny morning ? yet sleep experts have revealed a reason why we're having difficulties in the autumn ? because our biology is 'working against us'. Lisa Artis, a sleep expert and the deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, told the Metro that melatonin (the sleep hormone) is 'produced earlier' and 'makes us feel sleepy' due to darker autumn evenings
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/sleep-expert-explains-why-you-feel-so-tired-in-the-autumn/
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A bit of an update on the previous post...........The daylight lamp mentioned above is working, switched on as soon as it starts getting dark, it is just a cheap LED table lamp pointed into the corner of the room, works well, for me.
The biggest winter worries for Brits include the flu - and eating unhealthily
The top 20 winter worries for Brits have been revealed - including catching Covid, and having no motivation during the shorter days
Brits' biggest winter worries include catching Covid, a lack of vitamin D ? and eating unhealthy food, research has found. A poll of 2,000 adults found 39 per cent have concerns when it comes to their health or wellbeing during the colder months.
Developing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a worry for 17 per cent, while three in ten fret about their lack of motivation from the shorter days.
And a third (32 per cent) are already getting chills at the thought of adopting a ?winter diet?, and eating types of foods that aren?t nutritionally beneficial.
Other winter dreads include getting dry skin and lips, having to get out of the shower, and waking up and coming home in the dark.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/top-20-winter-worries-diet-27986701?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Scientists discover exactly how many minutes of exercise you need a day to live longer
A 'magic number' has been found which offsets the negative effects of sitting down too long, writes Elaine Blackburne
Published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the study backs up the UK chief medical officers' recommendation to try and get 150 minutes of MVPA per week, which roughly works out at 21 minutes per day. Researchers looked at data for 11,989 people aged over 50 from Norway, Sweden and the US who had worn activity trackers measuring their MPVA.
full article https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/scientists-discover-exactly-how-many-minutes-of-exercise-you-need-a-day-to-live-longer/
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Too many firms 'deceiving customers', greenwashing products and damaging public health in Wales
The country's chief medical officer wants big business to start acting more responsibly
Wales? chief medical officer has urged large companies to take greater corporate social responsibility on issues such as vaping, gambling, and ultra-processed foods. In his 2023 annual report, Sir Frank Atherton also slammed companies guilty of ?deceiving consumers? by claiming to be more environmentally friendly than they actually are.
This year?s report, called ?Shaping our Health?, focuses on the strategies used by businesses to promote products and behaviours that are detrimental to public health. Urging greater leadership from industry, the report said multi-nationals can significantly influence buying choices, and hence the environment, through their sourcing and manufacturing and marketing policies.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/many-firms-deceiving-customers-greenwashing-28027175
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For those who do not know, I started taking Vit. D at the start of Covid for strengthening my immune system, and I use 2000 IU.s per day
winter and summer, which is more than recommended below, but research says up to 4000 IU.s per day is OK, here is one link to check out, but do look at others please..........https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3_t-EQIy0s
Experts share seven signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency you should look out for
A third of people in the UK have low vitamin D levels
Wellness experts are urging people to be aware of the signs of vitamin D deficiency as a third of us in the UK have low levels. The team at Simply Supplements has shared the seven most prevalent symptoms of vitamin D deficiency to keep an eye open for.
When the days grow shorter and temperatures fall, it's difficult to get enough vitamin D from natural sun exposure. Vitamin D deficiency is more common than we may realise after a recent study found as many as one in three people in the UK are affected, MyLondon reports.
While foods such as red meat, oily fish and egg yolks contain vitamin D, it can be challenging to get enough from diet alone. People will low levels should consider supplements as the vitamin is essential for absorbing calcium and it contributes to the healthy function of bones, muscles, teeth and the immune system.
Health officials recommend taking a 10-microgram dose of vitamin D every day. Low levels can contribute to a range of health issues so it's important to be aware of the symptoms associated with deficiency.
Common signs to look out for are fatigue, muscle weakness, bone pain and frequent illnesses. Others include changes in appetite, impaired wound healing and hair loss.
A higher risk for vitamin D deficiency can come from working indoors or at night, following a vegan or vegetarian diet, having darker skin, being overweight and aging. Having a severe lack of vitamin D can lead to rickets in children and bone pain caused by osteomalacia in adults.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/symptoms-to-experts-share-seven-signs-and-symptoms-of-vitamin-d-deficiency-you-should-look-out-for-out-for-that-could-suggest-you-need-more-vitamin-d/
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The symptoms of scarlet fever as cases double in a week in Wales
Cases of scarlet fever rose dramatically last winter and it is important to be on the look out for any symptoms as we head into the winter months
Scarlet fever cases have been on a steady rise since the beginning of September, before the double in the number of cases last week, according to statistics from the UK Health Security Agency.
According to the NHS, the first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands (a large lump on the side of your neck). A rash appears 12 to 48 hours later.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/symptoms-scarlet-fever-cases-double-28054773
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Thousands at risk of poor home care because of low fees
Thousands of people who need support at home face an increased risk of poor care because of low fees paid by the NHS and councils, care companies say.
Only one UK public authority in 20 pays enough to fund the minimum wage and other staff costs, research suggests.
This means some companies struggle to find enough staff to support people with complex needs, while others face going under.
Council bosses say they "can't perform miracles" on overstretched budgets.
The government says the sector is getting more than ?8bn of extra funding over two years.
Social care, which supports people with tasks such as washing, dressing and medication in their own home, is mostly provided by private or not-for-profit companies and funded by public bodies such as local authorities or NHS trusts.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-67414940
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Twice-a-year jab could end daily pills for millions with high blood pressure
Stephen White on how a single dose of zilebesiran can control high blood pressure for up to six months
Daily pills could be a thing of the past for people with hypertension. Treatment could be swapped to a twice-yearly injection that 'switches off' high blood pressure.
With few side effects, a single dose of the drug, called zilebesiran, can control the condition for up to six months. After just one jab, most patients' blood pressure dropped.
This represented a 20 per cent or more reduction in the chances of suffering a heart attack, stroke or other cardiac event. This could result in some people quitting all blood pressure medication.
Much like diabetes drugs, medics say the injections could be self-administered. Cardiologists have welcomed the news unveiled at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia.
Although the study involved just a few hundred patients, the data was hailed as an important shift in the treatment of hypertension. High blood ?pressure is responsible for half of all heart attacks and strokes.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/twice-a-year-jab-could-end-daily-pills-for-millions-with-high-blood-pressure/
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The winter months are here and if you?re using your heating as the temperatures turn cold outside, you might not be aware that sleeping with it on can lead to health problems.
From nasty colds to swollen feet, experts are warning homeowners to avoid sleeping with the heating on.
Bedroom experts at Winstons Beds have shared a list of eight consequences homeowners may face if they leave their heating on overnight.
Experts say you shouldn?t leave your heating on all night
Leaving the heating on while sleeping will add to the costs of your energy bills but it could also encourage the growth of mould on your walls and cause some health issues.
8 reasons why you shouldn?t leave your heating on while you sleep......
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23933175.8-reasons-shouldnt-sleep-heating/
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Mrs H. suffering exactly same condition as mentioned below, after meeting up with some friends last Tuesday............we are shielding from each other as much as possible and wearing masks, which is something I think we should all do, if you think you have cold or flu symptoms, you wear a mask if on contact with others.................... we need to learn from the past.
Bad cold sweeping UK which feels 'almost like flu'
People have reported feeling ill for days and even weeks
A nasty cold is sweeping the UK that leaves people feeling ill for days or even weeks. People are reporting feeling 'bloody awful', with symptoms of fever, headaches, blocked noses, coughs, and fatigue.
Some have also reported testing negative for Covid, while others have said it is almost like flu, but not flu, reports WalesOnline. One person took to Reddit to say: "Just coming off the back end of a brutal cold that's lasted about three weeks, during which my sinuses have been almost completely closed, relaxing only for brief periods while also producing mucus at an alarming rate."
Another user agreed, saying: "I'm just emerging from it now. Bloody awful, almost like flu." And one more said: "I caught it in October, I was bedridden for days and then spent another week housebound, constantly looking at my phone to see if it had been 4 hours since my last dose of paracetamol. I'm assuming it's a Covid variant that isn't picked up by the tests, it was worse than any winter bug I'd had before 2020."
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/bad-cold-sweeping-uk-feels-28180136?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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An interesting and informative article and worth reading to the end..............
How to treat and stop the spread of norovirus as hospital admissions soar
Elaine Blackburne takes a look at the symptoms of the winter vomiting bug
How do you treat norovirus at home?..........
How is norovirus spread?..............
Norovirus symptoms.........read on
full article https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/how-to-treat-and-stop-the-spread-of-norovirus-as-hospital-admissions-soar/
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A highly-infectious disease is sweeping through the UK, health experts have warned, after a 250% increase in cases. The bacterial infection starts with symptoms similar to a cold, but can leave coughing fits lasting for two or three months.
The outbreak of Whooping Cough, also known as pertussis and 100-day cough because of how long the symptoms last, has seen a big increase in cases this year, compared to last year.
In the last five months there have been 716 cases reported to health authorities. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam from the UK Health Security Agency told The Sun that this rise was "expected". Dr Amirthalingam said social distancing and lockdown measures during the Covid-19 pandemic had significantly impacted the spread of infections, including whooping cough.
Prof Helen Bedford, an expert in child public health at University College London, said: "As expected, we are now seeing cases of whooping cough increase again, so it's vital pregnant women ensure they get vaccinated to protect their baby. Whooping cough in young babies can be very serious and vaccinating their mothers in pregnancy is the only way of ensuring they are protected in the first few months."
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/100-day-cough-highly-contagious-28237751?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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update on above
A vomiting bug outbreak has seen wards at a North Wales hospital closed to new admissions. Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board chiefs said there had been a rise in cases of norovirus.
They had seen increased cases at the health board, particularly at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. Health chiefs said a small number of wards have been closed to admissions, with restricted visiting in place.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/norovirus-outbreak-causes-closure-wards-28252098
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The start of January has become synonymous with lifestyle changes - many new-year's resolutions involve getting fit, losing weight and changing eating habits.
It is all down to the fresh-start effect - most people believe choosing a set point, such as a new year, will help motivate them to reach a particular goal.
But research suggests this does not always work, particularly for fitness.
And there are a few reasons why those thinking about getting into exercise should bring their 2024 resolutions forward a few weeks.
Why do people wait until January?
The first month of a new year is seen as a transition point and has been adopted as a time that marks a new beginning.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67559290
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Mrs H was in a chemists last night waiting for her prescription, the woman beside her was coughing, sneezing and spluttering, but during a break, asked my wife, why was she wearing a face MASK............ :o
Sickness bug which shut hospital wards is also affecting schools and care homes
Public Health Wales said sewage tests had shown a rise in norovirus across the population
A spokesman said: "Public Health Wales has seen an increase in incidents of norovirus in schools and care homes in recent weeks. Wastewater monitoring has also picked up a signal upswing indicating an increased presence of norovirus at population level.
Norovirus is a common stomach bug causing vomiting and diarrhoea, but symptoms may also include mild fever, headaches, stomach cramps and aching limbs. The illness usually resolves itself after a couple of days.?
He added: ?Anyone with diarrhoea and/or vomiting is advised to stay away from work, school, or nursery while they are symptomatic, and for 48 hours after their symptoms stop. Stay hydrated, and advice should be sought from a GP or NHS Direct Wales if someone is concerned about their symptoms.?
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/sickness-bug-shut-hospital-wards-28274546
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You cannot tell these people, they have NO regard for others, least of all for the vulnerable.. While shopping in a supermarket last week, a man kept coughing open mouthed, with no face covering or hangerchief.
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New rule may stop up to 145,000 heart attacks and strokes a year
The change could help up to 2.1million people
Between 50,000 and 145,000 heart attacks and strokes and other acute illnesses could be prevented over the next decade if people took extra drugs to cut their cholesterol levels, a health watchdog has said. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) set new targets for up to 2.1 million people with cardiovascular disease who have suffered a heart attack or stroke ? with the aim of preventing another attack.
Its guidance recommends that if statins alone are not doing enough to cut cholesterol in this group, then medics should consider offering further treatments. Nice estimates the move could stop up to 145,000 heart disease incidents over the next 10 years, including heart attacks, strokes, angina and premature deaths.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/new-rule-stop-up-145000-28286748?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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While shopping in Tesco Llandudno Junction last week an elderly gentleman was coughing so much he had to hold on to a fridge shelf. He repeatedly coughed & sneezed over rows of pots of yogurt. I dread to think how many people caught something off that yogurt afterwards. I have been wearing a mask when shopping for 4 weeks now, as I have had a cold & like your wife Steve have been asked why was a wearing one as Covid is over. As a precaution I have also started wiping the handles on trolleys I use, you can never be too careful ;)
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Well done Meleri, we both still wear masks and carry the hand sanitizer, yesterday I was sitting next to a woman in a medical setting, and she thanked me for wearing a mask as she was venerable, I said I was vulnerable too, and why was she not wearing a mask? she looked shocked....... :o
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Reminds me to keep an eye on our neighbours if they are alone..........................
Christmas can be lonely, here's what you can do if you're feeling overwhelmed
We've got advice, as well as charities and campaigns to support you if you're not looking forward to the festive season
Christmas may be the happiest time of the year for some, but for others, the pressures that come with the season, fears and worries can sometimes be overwhelming. That's why it's so important for us to look after our mental health as well as keep an eye on others.
Many of us get swept up in the excitement of festive plans ? but for some, financial pressures, isolation, lack of emotional support, or simply exhaustion in the run-up to one of the most chaotic times of the year can make Christmas daunting. If you're dreading Christmas, whatever the reason, help is out there and here are some of the places you can look to for support.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/christmas-can-be-lonely-heres-what-you-can-do-if-youre-feeling-overwhelmed/
PS
AN INSPIRING friendship group has organised a group activity for Christmas Day to combat loneliness and support poor mental health.
Meet the five friends combating loneliness this Christmas; John Churchward from Wrexham, Tom Goodwin from Conwy, Dave Jones from Bangor, Damon Alexander-Cole from Hawardon and Steve Upton from Newcastle.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23991331.meet-friends-combatting-loneliness-christmas-day/
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RSV: Jab for winter virus could cut baby hospitalisations by 80%, study says
Hospital admissions from a winter virus could be reduced by more than 80% if babies are given a single dose of a new antibody treatment, a study says.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
The trial involved children in the UK, France and Germany.
More than 30,000 under fives are hospitalised with RSV in the UK annually, resulting in 20 to 30 deaths.
One British parent said her son getting RSV was "very scary" as a first-time mother.
Lorna and Russell Smith's eldest son, Caolan, got the virus when he was eight months old and was admitted to hospital twice - each time requiring oxygen.
Now aged two, he has made a full recovery.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67828720
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6 dementia warning signs to look out for
Dementia is a catch-all term that covers a range of conditions
Alzheimer's disease and dementia have caused one in 10 deaths across the nation, a charity dedicated to finding a cure to the devastating illness has revealed. Alzheimer's Research UK has called for any drugs that combat the disease 'deemed safe and effective' to become available via the NHS as soon as possible.
The charity's research found that 74,261 people died from dementia (an umbrella term for various conditions that gradually worsen) and Alzheimer's (the most common form of it) in 2022, compared with 69,178 in 2021, with more than 48,000 being women, it said.
A spokesperson for Dementia UK said Alzheimer's symptoms are 'usually mild at the beginning' and 'gradually worsen' over time. They said those with the condition may have problems with their memory, concentration and speech, which can 'all culminate' in them 'withdrawing' from social and family circles.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/6-dementia-warning-signs-to-look-out-for/
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The key symptoms of norovirus amid rise in number of cases across Wales
Hospitals across Wales have had to bring in visiting restrictions due to rising cases this winter
Norovirus has caused problems for hospitals across Wales this winter. High levels of the vomiting bug has led to some health boards having to bring in visiting restrictions in a bid to stop spread.
Most recently, Swansea Bay University Health Board warned the virus was circulating in communities, and issued urgent advice in a bid to reduce the amount of people with the bug. And earlier this month, the sickness bug led to the closure of wards at Wrexham Maelor Hospital and affected schools and care homes.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/key-symptoms-norovirus-amid-rise-28367526
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How to lose weight safely in the new year, according to the NHS
The NHS lists seven things you should do to lose weight, and four you should definitely avoid
There are lots of ways you can lose weight, from making small changes to what you eat and drink to finding more support. If you're overweight, losing weight will give you more energy and help to reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease and type 2 diabetes, according to the NHS.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-lose-weight-safely-new-28310571
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Please remember to use a mask if you feel you have an infection, before mixing with others, the rise in numbers is probably due to friends and families meeting over Xmas period...............
People urged to come forward for flu/Covid vaccine in North Wales
Public Health Wales has called the rise as concerning In December, Public Health Wales published data showing recorded flu cases more than doubled over a period of three weeks.
All adults eligible for a free flu vaccine can now drop in to one of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board's (BCUHB) community vaccination clinics without an appointment for their jab.
Flu is now circulating in North Wales, alongside Covid-19 and other winter viruses.
The best way to protect against flu is to get the annual flu vaccine. The vaccine can stop you getting flu, lessen the severity of symptoms if you do catch the virus, and reduce your chances of passing it on.
It also helps to protect the wider community from outbreaks, and reduces the pressure on local NHS services during the busiest time of the year.
More than 270,000 people in North Wales have already boosted their protection against flu by getting the flu vaccine this winter.
Find locations, dates and times for clinics here. ....https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/covid-19-vaccinations/drop-in-for-your-covid-19-autumn-booster/
Walk in without an appointment
From Tuesday, January 2, vaccination clinics have been offering both the flu vaccine and Covid-19 Autumn booster. All eligible adults will be able to drop in to a clinic to receive the vaccines without an appointment. Residents can choose to receive one or both vaccines.
Many GP surgeries and community pharmacies will also continue to offer flu vaccination.
Painless nasal spray flu vaccines are available from GP surgeries for children aged two and three (age on August 31 2022). Schoolchildren from Reception to Year 11 can still get a spray flu vaccine at catch-up clinics organised by school immunisation teams.
If you have already received a letter with details of your Covid-19 Autumn booster appointment, you can stick to the date and time on your letter or choose to drop into a vaccination centre at an earlier date. If you choose to drop in, there is no need to contact BCUHB to cancel your appointment. You will be able to get a flu vaccine at your appointment if you have not already had one this winter.
BCUHB is asking people who do drop in to be patient ? you may face a short wait at busier times.
A spokesperson said: "Please be prepared to help our teams by waiting for a slot to become available."
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Dr Michael Mosely told about inflammation and why 'sitting is the new smoking'
Professor Janet Lord explained to the health expert how the condition is linked to a number of potentially fatal health conditions
An expert has given her top five tips for tackling inflammation. Janet Lord, who is professor of immune cell biology and from the Institute for Inflammation and Ageing at Birmingham University, says the condition is linked to a number of potentially fatal health conditions.
Speaking on Michael Mosley?s BBC podcast Just One Thing, she linked it with heart disease and strokes. Prof Lord said: ?For example, inflammation can damage the blood vessels, increasing your chance of cardiovascular disease. It reduces the ability of insulin to reduce blood glucose, so you get insulin resistance and then eventually diabetes. ?
She said: ?I always say that sitting is the new smoking, so we know that it?s a separate risk factor for age related disease. So you can be physically active, do your 150 minutes of aerobic exercise a week. But if you spend for example, each day, 8 to 10 hours sitting, you pretty well wipe a lot of that good work out. And so my top tip is Don?t sit if you can help it for more than an hour at a time.?
Prof Lord said she has this advice for people: ?People can either put a timer on their watch or if I say if you?re an older adults if you do insist in watching three editions of Flog It stand up for one of them. Just get into the habit of not sitting for any length of time and it really will help your health.?
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/dr-michael-mosely-told-inflammation-28444798?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Health officials have warned of further measles outbreaks across England after cases in the West Midlands rose by more than 30% in less than a week.
The region has seen the largest surge in cases outside London, with more than 300 suspected infections reported between 23 October last year and Monday.
Dr Ronny Cheung, children's consultant, warned the infection "at best will cause children great discomfort and at worst deaths".
Official figures show uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine across the country is at its lowest point in more than a decade.
In 2022/23, some 84.5% of youngsters in the country had received both doses of the jab by the time they were five years old - the lowest level since 2010/11. Up to 92.5% had received one dose, figures show.
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data released on Monday has shown there were 198 lab-confirmed cases in the West Midlands and 104 "likely" cases.
The majority (80%) have been found in Birmingham while 8% were identified in Coventry, with the rest spread across surrounding areas.
This has risen from 133 confirmed and 96 suspected cases, reported on 11 October last year.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cw0d7rpr6ndo
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UPDATE
Measles outbreak: Your questions answered
Measles outbreaks are rising across England, with areas including the West Midlands seeing their highest number of cases since the 1990s.
It has prompted health officials to encourage people to get vaccinated, with official figures showing uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is at its lowest point in more than a decade.
Here the BBC answers some of the questions people have been searching for.
What is measles?.........read on ............ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-68007804
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11 health issues a pharmacist can help you with without going to GP
You do not need an appointment and many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends
Nobody likes spending hours on hold trying to get an appointment with their GP - but there is an alternative. It can often be much quicker and easier to pop into your local pharmacy to ask for their advice.
Pharmacists have to have more than five years of training and can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses. As qualified healthcare professionals, they are ideally placed to help with coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble, and many aches and pains.
When symptoms indicate a more serious condition, they can also guide you on whether to seek further help from a GP or other healthcare professional. You do not need an appointment and many have a private consultation room where you can discuss your health issues without being overheard.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/11-health-issues-a-pharmacist-can-help-you-with-without-going-to-gp/
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Millions of parents in England are being contacted by the NHS and urged to make an appointment to have their children vaccinated against measles, as cases rise across the country.
More than 3.4 million children aged under 16 are unprotected and at risk of becoming ill, NHS England says.
Areas with low uptake of the MMR vaccine, such as the West Midlands and London, are being targeted first.
A similar campaign last winter pushed up vaccinations by 10%.
UK health officials said last week that an outbreak of highly contagious measles in the West Midlands could spread rapidly in other towns and cities with low vaccination rates.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68057317
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Spike in Welsh cases of '100 day cough' that can be deadly for babies
Public health experts in Wales are encouraging all pregnant women and parents of babies and young children to ensure that they have had their whooping cough vaccinations
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/spike-welsh-cases-100-day-28500617
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TIME TO TALK
Conwy Mind, the local mental health charity for Conwy County, will be holding a drop-in event for people to come and have a chat and learn more about their services. Conwy Mind offer a range of free services from 1-1 support groups and activities.
The team wants to ensure that people know that they are there for them and know about the services they offer. If you'd like to have a chat (and a brew!) with the team in person, head to their Time to Talk Day event at Ink Gallery.
Date: Thursday, February 1
Time: 11am to 1pm
Cost: Free
Location: Ink Gallery, Colwyn Bay, LL29 7RS
Time To Talk Day is the nation's biggest mental health conversation. Happening every year, it's a day for friends, families, communities and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and change lives.
To contact the team at Conwy Mind, call 01492 879907 or email info@conwymind.org.uk
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Whooping cough map highlights North Wales county as Wales becomes infections epicentre
A map has revealed where cases of whooping cough, which can be life-threatening for babies, are highest in Wales as people are urged to get vaccinated by doctors
A North Wales county is showing a high number of cases of a highly contagious disease, sometimes known as the ?100-day cough?.
Whooping cough cases are soaring across the UK, with Wales the current epicentre for infections. Swansea has seen more cases than anywhere else in England and Wales so far this year. But Flintshire in North Wales has also recorded a high number, not far behind the South Wales city
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whooping-cough-map-highlights-north-28529954?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Treatments for seven conditions such as sore throats and earaches are now available directly from pharmacists, without the need to visit a doctor.
The Pharmacy First scheme will allow most chemists in England to issue prescriptions to patients without appointments or referrals.
It will save GP surgeries an estimated 10 million appointments a year (3.3%).
Pharmacy groups welcome the move but there is concern about funding and recent chemist closures.
Pharmacists can carry out confidential consultations and advise whether any treatment, including antibiotics, are needed for the list of seven minor ailments.
Patients needing more specialist or follow-up care will be referred onwards.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68139870
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You would think we would have learned to be more aware of spreading infections after the last few years, if you have cold or flu symptoms and have to mix with others...........wear a mask ???
The number of people in hospital with flu and norovirus has hit a new high for this winter
Latest NHS figures show 2,226 beds were taken up by flu patients each day last week, up 70% in a month.
But the number in hospital with Covid dipped slightly, and surveillance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) showed rates were "broadly stable".
The NHS said the data showed it was still "in the thick of a challenging winter".
"Last week was evidence of why the NHS needed to grow its core bed numbers," said Prof Julian Redhead, NHS England's clinical director for urgent and emergency care.
The NHS said this month that it had met its target to increase the number of core hospital beds in England by 5,000 to 99,864.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68167022
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Top Welsh medic warns of 'life changing complications' for some children from measles if parents don't act now
'We need to ensure that those at risk in our communities are protected against potentially life-threatening viral infections like measles and whooping cough'
Wales? chief medical officer ? Sir Frank Atherton ? is calling on parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated against measles and are up to date with their other childhood immunisations.
Welsh health chiefs are warning that outbreaks of measles could become more frequent in Wales, unless urgent action is taken to increase measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), vaccination across the country. Sir Frank has warned it is essential that uptake of a full course (2 doses) of the MMR vaccine is increased to 95%, the target set by the World Health Organisation, to protect Welsh communities from a potentially devastating outbreak.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/health/top-welsh-medic-warns-life-28557793
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NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression
Talking therapies, or psychological therapies, are effective and confidential treatments delivered by fully trained and accredited NHS practitioners. They can help if you're struggling with things like feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
You can access talking therapies for free on the NHS.
You can refer yourself directly to an NHS talking therapies service without a referral from a GP, or a GP can refer you.
Help is available in person, by video, over the phone or as an online course.
Find an NHS talking therapies service...https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/talking-therapies-and-counselling/nhs-talking-therapies/
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Sorry a bit morbid first thing in the morning, but it is good to be aware of these things...............
Bowel cancer rates surge in under 50s, experts say screening age should be lower
Here's what you can do to lower your risk of developing the disease as the NHS is accused of lagging behind other countries
Bowel cancer is a widespread issue in the UK, affecting around 1-in-15 men and 1-in-18 women. It is also ranked as the fourth most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths,
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/bowel-cancer-rates-surge-in-under-50s-experts-say-screening-age-should-be-lower/
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Whooping cough on the rise with nearly 1,000 cases reported - see numbers near you
Richard Ault and Kieren Williams report that the UK has recorded its highest weekly count since before the pandemic
In the first four weeks of 2024, nearly a thousand cases of the '100-day cough' have been reported, which is more than 20 times the number during the same period last year. Just last week, there were 319 suspected cases of whooping cough, marking a 20% increase from the previous week and the highest weekly count since before the pandemic.
So far this year, there have been almost 979 cases, a significant rise from the 44 cases reported in the first four weeks of last year. The data, provided by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), only includes figures from GPs who have sent statutory notices after diagnosing a suspected case.
Cases from individuals who are managing symptoms at home or seeking private healthcare are not included, suggesting the actual number may be higher.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/whooping-cough-cases-on-the-rise-with-nearly-1-000-cases-reported-see-numbers-in-your-region/
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Health chiefs are urging people to get themselves vaccinated, amid concerns flu and Covid infections are still circulating in communities across North Wales. There are also concerns over the levels of measles and whooping cough.
A Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board statement said, during the last four weeks more than 200 inpatients at hospitals have tested positive for flu - the highest level since the first week of January 2023. The health board said: "The best way for vulnerable people to protect themselves against the serious illness caused by Covid-19 and flu is to get the Covid-19 autumn booster and annual flu vaccine.
"The vaccines can prevent you getting the viruses, lessen the severity of symptoms if you do, and reduce your chances of passing them on. They also help to protect the wider community from outbreaks, and reduce the pressure on local NHS services.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rise-cases-flu-covid-measles-28637561
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As temperatures drop, the temptation to whack on the heating only grows - but what temperature should your house actually be?
You might be surprised to hear that there's an optimum temperature for your house - and the ideal conditions actually differ between your bedroom and living space.
In fact, our central heating can have a considerable impact on our health which goes beyond the struggle of keeping warm in winter - especially for those with existing health conditions.
With more and more of us giving in and turning up the heating this winter, a GP has issued a warning to Brits about not turning their thermostats above these temperatures.
full article https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24142574.temperature-uk-house-gp-issues-warning/
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The 'simple' sponge-on-a-string test that cuts wait times for cancer diagnosis
The test sees patients swallowing a capsule-shaped device that contains a small sponge
A new test trialled by the NHS has cut the need for endoscopies for thousands of people, meaning high-risk patients have better access to appointments. A 'simple' and 'incredibly efficient' sponge-on-a-string test means many low-risk patients will no longer need an endoscopy.
An NHS pilot tested more than 8,500 people, with around eight in 10 discharged without requiring further tests. It means that endoscopy capacity for higher-risk patients and people referred for urgent tests would improve. The test sees patients swallowing a small capsule-shaped device with a tiny sponge that gathers cell samples before it is then extracted via a string attached to the sponge.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/the-simple-sponge-on-a-string-test-that-cuts-wait-times-for-cancer-diagnosis/
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More than 2,500 suspected whooping cough infections have been diagnosed by GPs so far in 2024 after a spike in cases.
This is according to the latest figures by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in their notifications of infectious diseases (NOIDs) report.
Health and nutrition experts from Verve have shared all you need to know about the illness, its symptoms and top tips for building your immune system.....cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24174627.whooping-cough-cases-rise-uk---symptoms-guidance/
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Young people across the UK are being urged to have their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine following a rise in measles cases.
At the start of the year, the West Midlands saw the highest number of people with measles since the 1990s, health officials said.
There have been 733 cases of measles in England since October last year, two months ago this figure was 133.
The NHS is now urging more than 900,000 adults aged 19-25 who have not yet had the jab to take part in a catch-up campaign.
These youngsters would have been eligible for a jab when the vaccination rates began to fall in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Take up of the MMR jab started to drop following a 1998 report by Andrew Wakefield which falsely linked the jab with autism, according to a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) 2023 measles briefing document.
Now vaccine coverage is the lowest it has been for more than a decade, with just 85% of youngsters having both doses of the jab before they start school aged five.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c6pkjyznjw8o
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Take up of the MMR jab started to drop following a 1998 report by Andrew Wakefield which falsely linked the jab with autism, according to a UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) 2023 measles briefing document.
It's worth reading the complete Wiki article (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_Wakefield) on this. Suffice to say, Wakefield was struck off when it was discovered he stood to make millions if the MMR vaccine was withdrawn, consistently fabricated evidence and tried to sue several organisations and people, later withdrawing every action he had started other than those dismissed by the courts.
Sadly, there are still many gullible people who continue to believe his lies and falsifications. Their gullibility has led to the deaths of children.
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New health centre and coffee bar proving major success in seaside town
LVL5 Gyms Ltd took on the units next to the new town centre Premier Inn in Llandudno
A new health and exercise complex in Llandudno has proved a major success after taking on empty units originally earmarked for retail and restaurants. LVL5 Gyms Ltd took on the units next to the new town centre Premier Inn that replaced the Tudno Castle hotel.
The 6,000 square-metre two-floor facility had been vacant before directors Sion Pritchard and Rich Blake snapped up the premises. They transformed the building into a state-of-the-art, high-quality gym, complete with coffee and smoothie bar, sauna, changing rooms, and retail store.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-health-centre-coffee-bar-28850932
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Asthma: Scientists find new cause of lung damage
UK scientists say they have found a new cause behind much of the damage asthma causes.
Cells lining the airways are squeezed to destruction during an attack, their research shows.
And drugs to prevent this, rather than manage its aftermath, might break the cycle of harm, the Kings College London researchers told the Science journal.
The airways of people with asthma are sensitive to triggers such as pollen, pets and exercise....
They become inflamed or swollen, causing symptoms including coughing, wheezing and breathlessness.
Existing drugs or inhalers can reduce this inflammation and help keep the airways open.
But repeated attacks can cause permanent scarring and narrowing of the airways.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68731197
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Do you have type 2 diabetes? Here's how you should be eating
Cookbook author and restaurateur Katie Caldesi's husband Giancarlo was diagnosed over 10 years ago, she shares her secret to eating well
A cookbook author and restaurateur has shared the secret to eating well with type 2 diabetes, and a low-carb diet seems to be the way forward. When Katie Caldesi's husband, Giancarlo, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes more than a decade ago, they 'didn't take it seriously' at first.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/do-you-have-type-2-diabetes-heres-how-you-should-be-eating/
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When I was first diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes I immediately gave up eating chocolates and cakes which I loved and found it easier than expected. We sent off for a few books on eating with Diabetes and one, an American one was rubbish and it went in the bin. The other was helpful and I'm sure that Katie Caldesi's book would be a good help to anyone who has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,
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Professor Tim Spector explains simple change that could aid weight loss
He said it could also improve blood sugar levels and help with heart health
An expert in nutrition has explained a simple change to your eating habits that could aid weight loss and improve heart health. Professor Tim Spector, professor of genetic epidemiology at King's College London and founder of the Zoe health app, espoused the benefits of intermittent fasting during an episode of his podcast.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKrG7gMzAQY
While speaking with fasting guru Gin Stephens on his show, which can be found here, he claimed that this specific manner of consuming food can profoundly impact weight reduction. It comes after contentious preliminary studies recently presented at the American Heart Association (AHA)'s Epidemiology and Prevention, Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Scientific Sessions, suggested those who ate their entire day's worth of calories within an eight-hour window - a form of intermittent fasting - faced a 91% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/professor-tim-spector-explains-simple-28983167?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Wales sees massive spike in dangerous 100-day cough that leaves people 'feeling awful'
Cases of whooping cough are at their highest levels for nearly a decade
Whooping cough is on the rise again after March saw the highest rate of the potentially ?dangerous? disease for ten years, Public Health Wales warned. Statistics revealed there were more cases in Wales in one week of March 2024 than the whole of 2021 and 2022 combined.
Now pregnant women and those with young children are being urged to get a vaccine as the disease, also known as the 100-day cough, continues to spread in the community. Public Health Wales figures show there were 55 reported cases of whooping cough in 2021, 55 in 2022, and 199 in 2023.
But in the four weeks from March 4 there were 315 cases. This included 122 cases in a single week, starting March 11, - more than 2021 and 2022 combined. The actual numbers are likely far higher as many cases go unreported.
Regional figures aren?t available for 2024, but North Wales, the area covered by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, had the joint highest number of whooping cough cases in Wales in 2021, the highest number in 2022, and the second highest number in 2023.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wales-sees-massive-spike-dangerous-29059914
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NHS issue norovirus warning as cases soar - and urge Brits to stay at home
Scientists from the UK Health Security Agency say the miserable weather in spring may be to blame for rise
Brits who have been struck down by a nasty bug causing vomiting and diarrhoea, are being advised to stay away from work or school, due to an increase in cases.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported that norovirus cases are higher than expected for this time of year, attributing the spread of the illness to the dismal weather. Government testing labs have recorded norovirus cases at 75% above the five-year average for the same four-week period,
The UKHSA is currently investigating the cause, suggesting "multiple factors" may be contributing to the unexpected numbers, including changes in testing since the Covid pandemic and the chilly spring weather.
Norovirus can lead to dehydration in addition to vomiting and diarrhoea, so it's crucial to keep hydrated if you're affected. Those in vulnerable groups, such as young children and older or immunocompromised individuals, are particularly at risk.
If you have norovirus, the NHS asks that you stay off school or work until two days after you have stopped being sick or had diarrhoea, as this is when you're most infectious. It's also important not to visit hospitals or care homes during this time. Washing your hands with soap and cleaning surfaces will bleach-based products will help stop the bug from spreading - but don't just rely on hand sanitiser, as this does not kill norovirus.
Read more https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-issue-norovirus-warning-cases-29199279
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Saliva tests carried out at home are better at identifying men who are at higher risk of prostate cancer than the standard blood test, new research suggests.
The at-home test could identify genetic factors which make men more likely to develop the disease which claims around 12,000 lives a year in the UK.
The study was carried out by the Institute of Cancer Research, London, and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust.
They hoped the findings could "turn the tide on prostate cancer".
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cw44e32veg3o
Melanoma skin cancer cases rising in UK
A cancer charity is warning people to do more to protect themselves from the sun as the number of melanoma skin-cancer cases in the UK continues to rise.
Cancer Research UK predicts there will be a record 20,800 cases diagnosed this year – up from a yearly average of 19,300 between 2020 and 2022.
Its analysis shows rates rose by almost a third, external between 2009 and 2019 - from 21 to 28 cases per 100,000 people.
The rise in diagnoses is due partly to a growing ageing population and an increase in awareness of the signs of skin cancer.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2ll0eywz37o
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How your diet can influence anxiety levels: Foods to eat and those to steer clear of
Several studies have shown certain foods and drink can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-your-diet-can-influence-29279598
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Pins and needles warning - look out for these two things, says doctor
The condition is common, but it may be hiding an underlying illness in some cases
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/pins-and-needles-warning-look-out-for-these-two-things-says-doctor/
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A just in case warning ................
An invasive species of mosquito has set up home in 13 countries in the EU, including France, Spain and Greece, with experts linking their presence to a rise in dengue fever in Europe.
Climate change is creating favourable conditions for the tiger mosquito to spread, said the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
As far north as Paris, where the Olympic Games will take place at the end of July, authorities have been monitoring and trapping the insect.
The ECDC has warned international travel will further increase the risk of more European outbreaks.
It has advised people to remove stagnant water from gardens or balconies, where mosquitoes can breed, and use repellent as well as screens on windows and doors.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce5520m6x2go
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HAYFEVER suffers have been warned by an expert ahead of the "worst week of the year so far".
Many weather forecasters have predicted very high pollen counts across parts of north Wales over the next few days.
The very high pollen count is in effect from today (June 18) until Thursday (June 20) in North Wales.
As temperatures look set to rise, so does the pollen count, leading to a warning from allergens expert Max Wiseberg.
"The first very high pollen counts of the year are forecast for Wales from today and for the following three days," he said.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24394053.hayfever-sufferers-warned-ahead-high-pollen-count/
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Three popular sunscreen lotions offer less protection than they claim, according to consumer organisation Which?
Which? carried out spot-checks on 26 sunscreens. Three lotions, from Calypso Sun, Bondi Sands and Asda did not pass all the tests - but others, including some cheaper options from supermarkets Aldi and Lidl, did.
Asda questioned the validity of the Which? tests, saying independent tests of the same batch had confirmed the lotion provided the level of protection on the label.
Calypso Sun said all products were carefully tested and passed European Union standards.
Which?, external says these products failed some of its checks:
Calypso Sun Press & Protect Sun Lotion SPF30
Asda Protect Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF 30 High
Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Face Sunscreen Lotion
Lotions that passed the tests included: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgeevnvj997o
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The UK is at a "tipping point", with low uptake of routine vaccinations putting children at risk of catching severe diseases, health officials say.
Stalling vaccination rates against some diseases, such as whooping cough and measles, means population immunity is no longer high enough to stop outbreaks.
Latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), for January-March, show a small increase in some vaccinations, including a 0.3% rise in pre-school booster jabs given to under-fives.
But targets are still being missed.
The World Health Organization (WHO) target is for 95% of under-fives to be vaccinated.
And for the six-in-one jab - against whooping cough, polio and tetanus - and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine this was exceeded in Scotland and Wales.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3ggge56x1qo
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Recent research by Well Pharmacy revealed that nearly eight in ten young Brits find it 'normal' or 'acceptable' to get sunburned on holiday. Among 18 to 24-year-olds, almost a third think a 'bit of sunburn is fine', and nearly 20% believe it’s okay because 'red skin eventually turns brown'.
Overall, 15% of this age group consider getting sunburned as just 'part of being on holiday', and 17% only apply sun cream 'when they remember'. The research indicates a concerning trend as two-thirds of Gen Z have been sunburned at least once in the last year, with 11% ending up in the hospital due to severe burns.
Millennials aren’t much better, with 15% of those aged 25 to 34 having been to hospital for sunburn at least once in the past year. Overall, two-thirds of Brits have a relaxed attitude towards sunburn while on holiday, with 69% of men and 54% of women accepting red skin while away.
Sun safety tips cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/young-brits-show-a-casual-approach-to-sunburn-despite-health-risks-study-finds/
PS
From experience, the slower you tan, the longer it lasts, also you loose most of your holiday tan on the air conditioned plane on the way home.......... 8)
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Dr Amir Khan has revealed the secret to looking and feeling good for longer – and it's something many people grow in their gardens. The TV doctor singled out one food group as being particularly beneficial for our health.
He said: "So, it's all the things we've talked about – good quality sleep, good quality food. If you want a food that's really going to make you live longer and look younger, what you need to eat more of is berries."
Speaking on the Private Parts podcast on YouTube last year, he explained that blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are "full of antioxidants". Now, this is a term we often hear, but what are antioxidants and what do they actually do?
Read more https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/tvs-dr-amir-khan-says-these-fruit-will-help-us-live-longer-and-look-younger?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Health Secretary Eluned Morgan has today announced the rollout of a new vaccination programme to protect against a common but potentially dangerous respiratory infection. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a very contagious virus, which infects 9 out of 10 children before their second birthday.
More than a thousand babies in Wales are hospitalised every year with RSV. It can also lead to serious health complications for adults aged over 75, resulting in around 125 deaths every year in Wales.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-vaccine-wales-winter-virus-29555625
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Something to bear in mind...................
Urgent action needed as malaria resists key drug
Millions of lives are at risk unless urgent and radical action is taken to stop drug-resistant malaria spreading in Africa, scientists warn.
Malaria parasites that can shrug off the effects of the critical drug artemisinin are now well-established in East Africa.
Resistance levels have soared in some areas from fewer than 1% to more than 20% of cases in the space of three years.
The last time resistance to an antimalarial spread in Africa it led to a tripling in the number of children dying.
Twenty-eight leading malaria scientists from 10 countries have made the call to action in the journal Science.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cxe25v5d8l9o
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They are the bête noire of many nutritionists - mass-produced yet moreish foods like chicken nuggets, packaged snacks, fizzy drinks, ice cream or even sliced brown bread.
So-called ultra-processed foods (UPF) account for 56% of calories consumed across the UK, external, and that figure is higher for children and people who live in poorer areas.
UPFs are defined by how many industrial processes they have been through and the number of ingredients - often unpronounceable - on their packaging. Most are high in fat, sugar or salt; many you’d call fast food.
What unites them is their synthetic look and taste, which has made them a target for some clean-living advocates.
There is a growing body of evidence that these foods aren’t good for us. But experts can’t agree how exactly they affect us or why, and it’s not clear that science is going to give us an answer any time soon.
While recent research shows many pervasive health problems, including cancers, heart disease, obesity and depression are linked to UPFs, there’s no proof, as yet, that they are caused by them.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpe3pppw1z7o
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People can reverse their type 2 diabetes by going on a strict 900-calorie-a-day liquid diet offered by the NHS.
Sticking to it may be challenging though, results suggest. Dieters must endure a few months of consuming only shakes, soups and meal-replacement bars, before healthy solid foods can be gradually reintroduced.
Of many thousands invited, hundreds completed the year-long programme, findings published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology journal, external reveal.
A third shed lots of weight - nearly two-and-a-half stone (16kg) - and put their diabetes into remission.
The programme is being offered to people around England. It is separate from the weight loss jab Wegovy that will be provided by some specialist NHS weight-loss management services.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czjyy7280lzo
Also
Pharmacists warn over fake weight-loss jabs
Pharmacists have warned people not to buy fake weight-loss jabs online as a shortage of Ozempic is expected to stretch into next year.
The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) suggested there could be a possible "explosion in the unlicensed sale of medication online" as a result.
Weight-loss injections have been popularised with celebrity endorsements and before and after pictures online, but fake versions can be dangerous.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0qeee33883o :565:
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People can reverse their type 2 diabetes by going on a strict 900-calorie-a-day liquid diet offered by the NHS.
Sticking to it may be challenging though, results suggest. Dieters must endure a few months of consuming only shakes, soups and meal-replacement bars, before healthy solid foods can be gradually reintroduced.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czjyy7280lzo
It sounds like a good idea and it is in some respects but if the Type 2 Diabetes has damaged the nerve endings to fingers, toes, eyes etc then the damage cannot be reversed. That is what I have been told and Diabetes is a more serious condition than I thought and for that reason I now use a diabetes trained chiropodist and I'm not taking any chances with my feet.
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Seven ultra-processed foods that could 'wreak havoc' in your gut and increase cancer risk
Diets packed with these foods are tied to reduced mortality, cancer and mental health problems
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/seven-ultra-processed-foods-that-could-wreak-havoc-in-your-gut-and-increase-cancer-risk?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
PS
Breakfast warning to millions who keep cereal boxes in their kitchen cupboards
A bowl of sugary grains and outs may not be the best way to start a day - even with so-called healthy items like granola
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/breakfast-warning-millions-who-keep-29701247
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Seven ultra-processed foods that could 'wreak havoc' in your gut and increase cancer risk
Diets packed with these foods are tied to reduced mortality, cancer and mental health problems
That should read "tied to increased mortality (but it's their error, Steve.)
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As the UK prepares for another heatwave, locals are being advised to keep their curtains and blinds closed from this Sunday to help manage the expected scorching conditions.
The Met Office has forecasted a rise in temperatures, predicting highs of 28C on Sunday, which could reach up to 31C by Monday. This indicates a return of the intense sunshine following a brief period of cooler weather, reports WalesOnline.
UK homes, which are usually built to retain heat during the harsh winter months, can become uncomfortably hot during the summer, leaving residents struggling to cool down their overheated properties. Official advice warns that extremely high indoor temperatures can lead to serious health issues, including the risk of heat stroke.
READ MORE... https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/households-warned-close-your-blinds-29735042
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I suspect this is referring to the heatwave that's just passed:
"According to the Met Office, the upcoming heatwave is set to commence on Sunday, August 11, reaching its zenith on Monday, August 12, before temperatures begin to dip once more on Tuesday, "
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UK health chiefs say they are making plans in case a new type of mpox virus is detected in the country - but they emphasise the risk is low.
It comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) declared on Wednesday that outbreaks in west and central Africa constitute a global health emergency.
Mpox, previously known as monkey pox, is a contagious virus that can cause painful skin lesions.
Plans are under way to ensure UK healthcare workers are aware of the key signs to look out for and have rapid tests available.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy8xqxpjqxdo
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A family's dream holiday turned into a nightmare when severe sunburn left a 10-year-old boy requiring hospital treatment.
Hector had been enjoying a sunshine break with his loved ones in Cape Verde, when he decided he wanted to enjoy a final few hours of fun by the hotel pool before they left for the airport.
His mother Natalie said their suncream had run out so they purchased an extra bottle of high factor cream at the resort and applied that.
However shortly after leaving the pool, his back and shoulders turned bright red and huge blisters started to appear.
Natalie has decided to speak about Hector's experience to warn other families going abroad about only using suncreams they know and trust.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1l57vqqnjeo
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A new vaccine will be given for the first time in Wales on Monday with the hope it will save hundreds of lives each year. The vaccine is aimed at protecting babies and older adults from the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) which kills between 400 and 600 adults each year, and leads to more than 1,000 babies needing hospital treatment.
RSV is a common infection which circulates through autumn and winter, infecting most children within the first two years of their life and frequently reinfects older children and adults. While for many children it presents as the common cold, babies under the age of one are at a greater risk of severe infection if they get the virus.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c74jdj2x0w4o
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If you're feeling under the weather and not in the mood for food, this veggie soup recipe may be just the thing to get you back on your feet. It's a great alternative to the usual pick-me-up chicken broth and has been dubbed 'amazing' for anyone 'feeling run down' by people who have tried it.
Appetite can be one of the first things to go when when your unwell, but one doctor and nutritionist has shared her secret soup that's a staple when she's not at her best. Known as the @thefoodmedic on Instagram, Dr Hazel Wallace regularly shares her healthy recipes with 838,000 followers, and one of her latest posts demonstrates how to create her tomato-based soup that could help you feel better.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/docs-soup-recipe-is-perfect-pick-me-up-if-youre-under-the-weather?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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The NHS is urging parents and carers of two and three-year-olds to schedule a flu vaccine for their children ahead of an expected surge in respiratory illnesses this winter.
School-age children, kids in clinical risk groups and pregnant women are among the groups also eligible to get vaccinated.
The flu vaccine is given to most children as a quick, painless spray up the nose, with no injection. Children who cannot have pork gelatine in medical products will be offered an injection.
The health service expects a wave of Covid-19 infections alongside a rise in flu and other illnesses this winter.
From 3 October, the campaign will also target over-65s, adults in clinical risk groups and carers.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4g5dlndd5do
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High blood pressure can be a silent killer and figures suggest that one in three adults in the UK is living with the condition. Also know as hypertension it can be a symptomless condition if left untreated can cause a stroke or heart attack.
What we eat influences our health and that rule is true for high blood pressure. A diet heavy in salt for example can push up your blood pressure. However, by making simple lifestyle changes and cutting down on certain foods blood pressure can be managed.
In a recent article for Heart Matters, British Heart Foundation (BHF) senior dietitian Victoria Taylor, explained the benefits of an improved diet: “If you have high blood pressure, one of the tools you can use to help keep it under control is your diet.”
And the best diets begin at breakfast................ https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/dietician-says-making-two-food-swaps-at-breakfast-can-lower-blood-pressure?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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As careful as I am, I must admit to be a bit lax with the hand sanitiser ............ :-[ this was a good reminder..............
Motorists beware... you maybe picking up more than petrol and a pint of milk next time you fill up at the petrol station. Cold and flu season is on its way and the germs lurking on fuel pump handles could be the source of your next infection.
The start of October begins five months of viruses that leaves many of us feeling under the weather. Scientific evidence points the finger at the humble fuel station pump as a hotbed for potential infection.
“There are certain household objects that can be particularly prone to carrying bugs - such as mobile phones and TV remote controls. But there are a host of other regularly-touched items that fly under the radar when it comes to virus transmission, and one of them is the petrol station fuel pump handle.
“Not many people bother to wear the protective, disposable gloves available on forecourts when filling up. And it’s not uncommon for drivers to nip into the shop to buy a packet of crisps or a sandwich after filling up their tank. But habits like these can leave us vulnerable to becoming unwell when lots of viruses are in circulation."
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/warning-to-car-drivers-over-flu-and-cold-germs-at-the-petrol-pump?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is advising people with a peanut allergy to avoid consuming foods that may contain mustard, because they could be contaminated with peanuts.
Mustard ingredients - including mustard powder or flour - can be found in dips, sauces, salads and pre-packed sandwiches, the FSA said.
It is trying to identify how many products may be affected - around 50 have already been recalled.
Parents of children with a peanut allergy should check the labels of food they are buying and ask restaurants and take-away outlets about foods that might contain mustard, the agency says.
Some of the products............... cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crl8kr1xyxgo
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The food safety watchdog has issued new guidance over caffeine in food supplements after a man died miscalculating the amount he was meant to use.
Personal trainer Tom Mansfield, from Colwyn Bay, Conwy county, died in January 2021 after taking caffeine powder which was equivalent to up to 200 cups of coffee.
Highly-concentrated caffeine supplements can be "extremely potent", the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) warned.
The watchdogs advise people to always follow the dose instructions on the label and use accurate measuring equipment.
Dad-of-two Mr Mansfield tried to weigh a dose of the powder within a range of 60 milligrams to 300 milligrams using a scale that had a weighing range of 2g-5,000g, meaning he ended up consuming several grams.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2kyve4e5go
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Fewer people came forward for their flu vaccine last year and if the same happens again the UK could be in for a worse winter, health officials are warning.
There were at least 18,000 flu-related deaths over the last couple of years, despite being relatively mild flu seasons, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Free flu shots are offered each year by the NHS to people most at risk from getting very sick with flu, also known as influenza.
While uptake among older people in England remained high last year, only one in every three pregnant women got vaccinated. Among people with long-term health conditions, uptake was about four in 10, compared to five in 10 the year before.
Vaccinations for two and three-year-olds were also down slightly, with just over four in every 10 getting protected.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62d8r0nnl6o
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A vaccine, which could potentially save the lives of thousands of elderly people in the UK is being rolled out by the NHS. The jab, which is also being given to women from 28 weeks of pregnancy, tackles the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common cause of coughs and colds.
A study, by experts at the University of Aberdeen and the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, has looked into the success of the jab, which is being offered to people aged 75 and over. Published in Age & Ageing, the study said evidence suggested a 70% take-up of the vaccine among the older age group could prevent up to 2,800 deaths every year, reports PA.
But what else can you do to fight off viruses as you age?
Dr Johannes Uys, doctor at Broadgate GP said: “As we age, our immune system weakens, primarily due to the thymus reducing its production of immune cells and the diversity of T-cells. This weakened state makes it tougher for older adults to fend off new pathogens.”
READ MORE..... https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/7-easy-ways-to-boost-your-immunity-as-you-get-older?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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In recent weeks I have been trying out some high protein products, to help build muscle :-\ and by coincidence I received the latest podcast news from ZOE Science & Nutrition....................
The truth about protein shakes, according to science | Dr Federica Amati
Protein-rich diets have been popular for some time. Everything from chocolate bars to ice cream promises to be ‘high protein’. Influencers and media outlets seem to rave about the weight loss and muscle building potential of eating a lot of protein.
But when it’s added as an extra ingredient - sometimes with emulsifiers and sugar - is it really helping our muscles grow?
Today, ZOE's Head Nutritionist Dr. Federica Amati reveals the truth about protein bars and shakes, cutting through the marketing noise to find out how useful these products really are.
cont https://link.chtbl.com/dCv8r0ND?lid=9j7efucrsyuv
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Plans for a new chippy have come up against a health board's demands for fruit and veg on the menu.
Betsi Cadwaladr health board wants the proposed takeaway in Morfa Bychan, Gwynedd, to sell a "good selection" of fruit and veg.
It wants the menu to have less fat, salt and sugar and is worried an increase in fast food outlets is "detrimental" to people's health.
It is unclear whether customers would relish the prospect of cod and broccoli on the menu.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce3zwz4025zo
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Covid doubles the risk of a heart attack, stroke or dying up to three years later, warns a new study. The danger is even higher among people with blood types A, B or AB who were infected with the virus compared to those with type O, say scientists.
They reviewed health and genetic data from more than 10,000 British adults aged over 50, including around 8,000 who had tested positive for the Covid-19 virus from February 1 to December 31, 2020, and about 2,000 who tested positive for the virus in hospital in 2020.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-anyone-who-covid-last-30104071
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Aches, pains and stiffness are often associated with changes in weather, especially when it starts to get nippy outside. But why do we experience joint pain in the autumn and winter –
and what can be done to prevent it?................ https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/joints-hurt-more-in-cold-weather-heres-why-and-what-can-help-you-out?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Our bodies are very good at letting us know all is not well and we're missing vital fuels, but we're maybe not so good at picking up on these often subtle signs. With this in mind the NHS has highlighted red flags that might indicate you're deficient in specific vitamins and nutrients and which foods are best to boost them.
To function properly, our bodies need a wide range of vitamins and there are 13 in particular that are classified as essential. These are: Vitamins A, C, D, E, K, Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic acid (B5), Biotin (B7), Pyridoxine (B6), Cobalamin (B12) and Folate (folic acid or B9).
Should you be feeling under the weather your GP can arrange a blood test to test if you're lacking certain vitamins or minerals. That said, there are some tell-tale signs that over-the-counter supplements and a modified diet could resolve.
READ MORE https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/how-to-spot-if-youre-not-getting-enough-of-these-13-essential-vitamins?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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The 8 best things you can do for your health in your 50s and 60s
Generation X are living longer but are more likely to experience serious health problems
People born in the 1960s and 70s are living longer but are in poorer health than previous generations, according to a new study. Unhealthy lifestyle choices, including poor diet, smoking, high stress levels and being sedentary, may have contributed to the decline in health among this demographic.
Research published in the Journals of Gerontology analysed data for more than 100,000 people between 2004 and 2018. The team, from University College London, looked at doctor-diagnosed chronic illnesses, body mass index, records on mobility issues and disability, as well as grip strength and high blood pressure.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/the-8-best-things-you-can-do-for-your-health-in-your-50s-and-60s?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Cases of the 'winter vomiting bug' norovirus are on the rise across the country - with numbers well up on the same period last year. The most recent weekly figures in the Weekly Surveillance Report for Welsh Government show a 118% rise in cases on the previous week.
Although the total number of confirmed cases remains relatively low at 35 these are only cases that are lab tested. Only a small proportion of community cases are confirmed microbiologically.
MORE..... https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/increase-cases-winter-vomiting-bug-30167638
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Update.........
Consultant Epidemiologist at Public Health Wales, said: “Preventing the spread of norovirus relies on regular and thorough handwashing. We recommend washing hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food.
"Alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not effective against norovirus, so proper handwashing is essential. Additionally, those experiencing symptoms should stay at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided to prevent further transmission. For further advice on protecting yourself and others from gastrointestinal infections, visit the NHS 111 website.”
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/important-norovirus-tip-cases-winter-30171461
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It seems that it's not all alcohol sanitisers that are ineffective, and one enjoyed a very high success rate. Once I've discovered which one that is, I'll post it in here.
The original comparative study (https://news.ncsu.edu/2022/09/sanitizers-and-human-norovirus/).
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Thanks Ian, A very informative read.
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Back pain relief and osteoporosis prevention advice from Professor Tim Spector
He says drinking milk for healthy bones is a myth.
If you have back trouble from conditions like osteoporosis, you could alleviate the pain with a new diet according to nutritional scientist Tim Spector. And despite what we were told throughout our entire childhoods, he said guzzling milk isn't all it takes for healthy bones.
Professor Spector said it is not 'any one item' such as calcium or zinc that can reduce the impact of osteoporosis. The Professor of Genetic Epidemiology at King's College in London recently appeared on the Zoe podcast where he told listeners how a balanced diet can reduce the impact of the condition by 40%.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/back-pain-relief-and-osteoporosis-prevention-advice-from-professor-tim-spector?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Can't sleep because of a cold? Use these tips to grab the shut-eye you need
With a 'miracle' smoothie and some tweaks to your night-time routine, you can catch some much-needed sleep as you battle your cold
Smoothies are a quick and efficient way to give yourself a nutritional boost and by tweaking some ingredients, you can create one that targets cold symptoms. Try cold-fighting 'miracle' smoothie to try get some sleep:
Pineapple: Contains an enzyme to reduce mucus and congestion as well as easing inflammation
Banana: Contains nutrients to relax muscles so you can drift off to sleep
Spinach: Contains B Vitamins which promote sleep hormone growth
Turmeric: Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which help reduce nasal congestion
Almond milk: Contains properties that enhance brain function and regulate sleep.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/cant-sleep-because-of-a-cold-use-these-tips-to-grab-the-shut-eye-you-need?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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This site is picking up a lot of advice from Professor Tim Spector, the founder of Zoe Health, I would be interested to hear if you find it helpful.
Professor Tim Spector, the founder of Zoe Health, is encouraging people to eat more dark green vegetables. He said this can boost your gut health considerably and protect you against cancer and dementia.
Professor Spector referenced his research with the American Gut Project where he found eating 30 different plants weekly promotes many aspects of your health. He said this is 'one of the best things you can do' for your health.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/tim-spector-explains-how-to-protect-against-cancer-and-dementia-with-this-colour-food?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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I don't like the darker nights, last winter I bought a cheap adjustable desk light from Lidl, they had LED daylight bulbs, and pointed into the corner of a room, proved to be very effective.............
Dark, gloomy days making you feel SAD? How to tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder
If you struggle you can take steps now to make sure you enter winter with a clear plan in place to cope with the condition
Your mental health can suffer when dark evenings and cold weather arrives. The shift from summertime is even more difficult for those suffering with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Two million people in the UK experience SAD every year. SAD is a type of depression that becomes apparent during certain seasons with symptoms including persistent low mood, heightened irritability, feelings of worthlessness and lethargy.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/dark-gloomy-days-making-you-feel-sad-how-to-tackle-seasonal-affective-disorder?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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A new campaign by the NHS in England is encouraging people who experience the first sign of a stroke not to delay calling 999, after analysis of calls made in the last year showed the average time to do so was nearly an hour and a half.
England's most senior doctor says stroke symptoms might not appear obvious or dramatic, but they are always a reason to act quickly.
About 100,000 people have a stroke each year in the UK and more than a third die from related issues, making it the fourth biggest cause of death in the UK.
The most common symptoms are struggling to smile or raise an arm, and slurring words when speaking.
NHS England says recognising any one of these signs in yourself or others and dialling 999 urgently is crucial to getting prompt, specialist treatment.
Yet the average time taken to make that emergency call was 88 minutes in 2023-24, NHS data reveals................https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce9g810m8kxo
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The NHS will start offering an "improved" stop smoking pill to tens of thousands of people in England who want to quit cigarettes.
Varenicline, a daily tablet given over a few months, is as effective as vapes and more effective than nicotine replacement gum or patches, NHS England says.
The drug, which fights cravings, was available a few years ago on the NHS under the brand name Champix but was withdrawn due to some impurities. The new version has been approved as safe.
E-cigarettes, meanwhile, will "sometimes" be offered, often as a starter kit of about two weeks' worth of vapes by local NHS stop smoking services, officials said.
Varenicline is a prescription only medicine, which means people cannot buy it over the counter at a pharmacy or supermarket and will instead need to see their GP or an NHS stop smoking service to get it..............https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq520wy6nplo
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At 31 years old, I was told by doctors that if I didn’t stop drinking alcohol, I could die.
I was shocked because I didn’t drink every day, I never drank alone and I drank because I enjoyed it as a social activity, not because I felt alcohol-dependent.
But by definition, my alcohol consumption from my late teens to late 20s would be considered binge drinking. It felt normal because people around me were doing the same - and now it was catching up with me................ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c30pre660mzo
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Steve, before I read the linked article I thought that you were having a mid life confession ;D
Seriously though alcoholism is a serious matter and the alcoholics don't realise the devastating impact it has on themselves and the people who care about them. It's ironic that alcoholism which is a life style is treated as an illness or disability and the alcoholic actually receives benefits for the life style they have chosen.
The same could be said for obesity, no one makes the person overeat that's their choice of a life style
Both conditions can be avoided but they are both a drain on the resources of the NHS
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Looking at it again, I see what you mean about a confession, in reality, they threw me out of Glasgow because I did'nt drink enough.. :o
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I had the same thing happen in Llandudno I didn't drink too much but only because I didn't have the money. With a Summer holiday job the £1.50 I earned for a 44 hour week didn't go very far. The good old days! 8)
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The good old days! 8)
Steve H: Yep. Miss those old chimneys we had to climb, and nicking apples off the barrows, using plastic bags to keep the rain off when we were asleep, drinking A cup of cold tea. without milk or sugar - or tea - in a cracked cup, an’ all. Mind you, we never used to 'ave a cup. We used to have to drink out of a rolled up newspaper. The best we could manage most days was to suck on a piece of damp cloth. But you know, we were happy in those days, because we were poor. My old dad used to say to me, "Money doesn't buy you happiness, son." He was right.
Hugo: I was happier then and I had nothing! We used to live in this tiny, old, tumbled-down house with great big holes in the roof.
Dave R: House! You were lucky to live in a house! We used to live in one room, all twenty-six of us, no furniture, half the floor was missing, and we were all huddled together in one corner for fear of falling.
Ian: Eh, you were lucky to have a room. We used to have to live in the corridor...
Hugo: We used to dream of livin’ in a corridor. Would've been a palace to us. We used to live in an old water tank on a rubbish tip. We got woken up every morning by having a load of rotting fish dumped all over us!
Ian: Well, when I say 'house' it was just a hole in the ground covered by a sheet of tarpaulin, but it was a house to us!
Hugo: We were evicted from our hole in the ground; we had to go live in a lake!
Steve H: You were lucky to have a lake! There were a hundred-and-fifty of us livin’ in a shoebox in the middle of the road!
Ian: Cardboard box?
Steve H: Aye.
Hugo: You were lucky. We lived for three months in a newspaper in a septic tank. We used to have to get up every morning at six o'clock, clean the newspaper, go to work down the mill: fourteen hours a day, week-in week-out, for sixpence (6 pennies) a week, and when we got home our Dad would thrash us to sleep with his belt!
Ian: Luxury! We used to have to get out of the lake at six o'clock in the morning, clean the lake, eat a handful of hot gravel, work twenty hour day at mill for tuppence a month, come home, and dad would beat us around the head and neck with a broken bottle, if we were lucky!
Dave R: Well, of course, we had it tough. We used to have to get up out of the shoebox in the middle of the night, and lick road clean with tongues! We had to eat half a handful of freezing-cold gravel, worked twenty-four hours a day at that mill for fourpence every six years, and when we got home... our dad would slice us in two with a bread knife.
Hugo: Right... I had to get up in the morning at ten o'clock at night, half an hour before I went to bed, eat a lump of cold poison, work twenty-nine hours a day down the mill, and pay the mill owner for permission to come to work, and when we got home... our dad would kill us and dance about on our graves singing "Hallelujah."
Dave R: And you try to tell the young people of today that ... they won't believe you.
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i cant believe you lot had it so easy
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This year we have had to make use of Foot Care professionals, after trying a few, todays visit stood out, and we will be using him in the future.
Andrew Murgatroyd BSc MA
Foot Care Practitioner DipFH MCFHP MAFHP
Telephone 07387 583971
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The number of cases and people hospitalised with flu in Wales has spiked over the last couple of weeks. Public Health Wales said the country was at the start of 'influenza season'.
The newly released Weekly Communicable Disease Surveillance report (up to November 25) showed that flu was already on the rise last month. The number of confirmed cases of community acquired influenza admitted to hospital had increased to 99 in the seven days to November 25, up from 49 in the previous week................ https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/flu-cases-hospitalisations-spike-influenza-30572550
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A large UK study has found further evidence that people with more calcium in their diet - equivalent to a glass of milk a day - can help reduce their risk of bowel cancer.
The researchers analysed the diets of more than half a million women over 16 years and found dark leafy greens, bread and non-dairy milks containing calcium also had a protective effect...........https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cj90m4errlgo
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Diet and nutrition are particularly important during the dark days of winter. In addition to colds and flu, many people experience fatigue and depression at this time of year – but essential nutrients can help.
While it's quite common to top up your vitamins, certain minerals and botanicals can also ward off winter ills and make recovery swifter. Nutritionist Dr Pam Mason and Jane Wragg, from ADACT Medical, have shared eight less common items that should be on your shopping list..................
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/8-essential-nutrients-to-fight-fatigue-and-ward-off-colds-and-flu?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-2312025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Well worth reading the whole article,... in my opinion.........
Well, I've become enthralled by the idea of enhancing or boosting the immune system. My body has been the living embodiment of the "quademic" that the NHS spent all winter warning us about. It's been a relentless stream of colds and coughs and one explosive tummy.
Our immune systems already do a fantastic job fighting viruses and other nasties. If I collected all the air I breathed out over the course of a minute it would contain 100 to 10,000 bacteria, 25,000 viruses and a single fungi, according to Prof John Tregoning, immunologist at Imperial College London.
"You're breathing these things in all the time, there's just a swirling mass of pathogens [organisms that cause disease] in the air," he says.
But there's plenty of foods, supplements and activities that are touted for their "immune-boosting" properties. Can we dial up our protection?................
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2m8d44v4go
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Many don't know they have prediabetes - so what is it and what can be done?
Millions of people have the condition which can lead to type 2 diabetes
Many people are unaware they're at risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to higher than normal blood sugars, as prediabetes doesn’t have any symptoms. Diabetes UK's latest data suggests that 6.3 million Brits are living with the condition.
The figures also show that 4.6 million people in the UK have been diagnosed with diabetes, up 200,000 from last year to reach the highest level on record. The charity estimates an additional 1.3 million people have undiagnosed type 2 diabetes.
Their analysis suggests that one in five adults in the UK are living with either diabetes or prediabetes. “These latest figures highlight the hidden health crisis we’re facing in the UK, and underline why the Government must act now.......................
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/many-dont-know-they-have-prediabetes-so-what-is-it-and-what-can-be-done?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-1322025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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At-home tests for men worried about prostate cancer can give inconsistent and inaccurate results, BBC News has found.
The tests, which resemble a Covid lateral flow strip, turn positive if a high level of a protein called PSA is detected in a drop of blood.
Of five rapid tests analysed by the BBC, one did not work, three were negative or all-clear, but one returned a false positive result - all from the same blood sample.
Prostate Cancer UK said it had significant concerns about the sale of the tests given their "questionable accuracy" and the absence of a doctor to interpret the results............ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgl00gn15y8o
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If anyone has concerns then I would suggest that they go to their GP and ask for a PSA test and not do a DIY test on yourself. T If anyone has done a DIY test the GP will only ask for another one to be done so that they can diagnose any problem
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The number of measles cases in the European region doubled last year to reach the highest level in 25 years, health officials say.
A joint report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN children's fund, Unicef, said children under the age of five accounted for more than 40% of the cases reported in Europe and central Asia.
"Measles is back, and it's a wake-up call," Hans Henri Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, said. "Without high vaccination rates, there is no health security."
The MMR vaccine - which immunises people against measles, mumps and rubella - is 97% effective in fighting off the dangerous virus.
Measles is a highly contagious disease which is spread by coughs and sneezes.
Common symptoms include:.............. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy9dyp8e81zo
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This article confirms what I was recently advised to do by an NHS specialist, well worth reading
BE PATIENT: It might test your patience, but waiting for your morning cuppa has huge benefits.....
If you kick off your day with a cuppa and a handful of vitamins, you may want to rethink your morning routine based on the advice of one wellness expert. Agnieszka Kozlowska, owner of Miracle Leaf Wellness, has warned that you would be just as well throwing these vitamins down the drain as washing them down with caffeine.
Kozlowska explained the factors determining how effective your morning supplements are and revealed how long you should wait for your cuppa after taking them. She said: "Taking iron with tea or coffee can reduce their effectiveness, as drinks like these can block your body from fully absorbing certain nutrients, especially iron........... https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/revealed-how-long-you-should-wait-to-drink-tea-or-coffee-after-popping-vitamins
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Supermarkets will be banned from displaying unhealthy snacks near tills or on their website homepages from next year after the Senedd narrowly approved obesity-tackling plans.
The new rules mean junk foods including pizza, chocolate, and cereal will have to be removed from shop entrances and the end of aisles, while sugary drink refills and some buy-one-get-one-free deals will also end.
The restrictions are aimed at stopping impulse buys at key selling spots in businesses with 50 or more employees, with shops found breaching them to face a fine.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said the rules, which will come into force in March 2026, would help "tackle Wales' growing obesity problem".
Smaller shops and those specialising in one product – such as sweet shops and chocolatiers – will be exempt.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz7v43w3yq0o
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While it’s natural to slow down with age, staying as fit and healthy as possible becomes increasingly important once retirement beckons and beyond. As the American comedian, George Burns, said: “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.”
For those over 60, mindful movement and self-care is essential – and it's time to admit that you can no longer get away with the bad habits of youth. Yet, a physiotherapist has warned that attempting too much too soon can cause unnecessary strain or even result in long-term injury.
MORE USEFUL ADVICE......... https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/over-60-six-things-a-physio-wishes-youd-stop-doing?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-0642025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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US President Donald Trump says he will soon announce "major" tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals, a move that could end decades of low-cost global trade in medicines.
For years, most countries, including the US, have imposed few or no tariffs on finished drugs, thanks in part to a 1995 World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreement aimed at keeping medicines affordable.
This shift comes after Trump introduced a blanket 10% tariff on other imports last week, as part of a broader effort to bring manufacturing back to the US.
His new "reciprocal" tariffs - including a duty of 104% on goods arriving from China - came into force on Wednesday, intensifying a global trade war and further shaking markets.
Pharmaceutical buyers, so far spared from such measures, are now preparing for what may come next.
The US has typically imported vast quantities of finished medicines from India, Europe and China without buyers paying tariffs - although active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), used to make drugs, do face some duties.
Speaking at a fundraiser dinner for his Republican Party on Tuesday, Trump said: "We're going to be announcing very shortly a major tariff on pharmaceuticals. And when they hear that, they will leave China."
He also told reporters on board his Air Force One plane last week that "pharma" tariffs would arrive "at a level that you haven't really seen before", saying these would be announced "in the near future"............ https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cedyylj1v32o
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The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging people to use services responsibly over the Easter bank holiday.
The long weekend is expected to coincide with usual pressures on the NHS, which means waiting times at emergency departments may be longer than usual.
The Trust is reminding people to consider other healthcare options before dialling 999, such as NHS 111 Wales, pharmacies, GPs, and Minor Injury Units.
These can assist with less urgent medical needs.
The NHS 111 Wales website also provides health information, a symptom checker, and a 24-hour advice line.
The Trust is asking people to collect any necessary medication and ensure they have first aid supplies to manage minor injuries at home.
They are also encouraging people to check in on elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends, and neighbours, ensuring they have the medication and support they need over the Easter period.
Judith Bryce, assistant director of operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: "As always, we anticipate a busy Bank Holiday period, which is why we're urging everyone to help ensure our resources are available for those with the most serious or life-threatening conditions over Easter.
"If you contact us for a non-emergency, you may be diverting critical time and resources away from someone in urgent need.
"It's also important to understand that arriving at the hospital by ambulance does not guarantee faster treatment in the emergency department.
"Please make informed choices and consider the full range of healthcare services available to you."
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The seven symptoms which may mean you have type 2 diabetes and what to do
'It’s very important for diabetes to be diagnosed as soon as possible as it will get progressively worse if left untreated'
From a personal experience, I went to the GP complaining about weight loss and tiredness and I was shocked to find out from a blood test that I had Diabetes. I honestly thought that Diabetes was confined to people who were over weight, but it certainly isn't as I found out
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/seven-symptoms-mean-you-type-31575636
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A recent study has revealed that a shingles vaccine can reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke for up to eight years. The research indicates that individuals who receive the vaccine are at a 23% lower risk of suffering from severe cardiovascular events, including heart failure.
This ground-breaking discovery was made during an extensive study that observed more than 1.2 million participants and was published in the prestigious European Heart Journal. The team discovered that the vaccine's benefits endure for up to eight years and are especially significant for males, people under 60 years of age, and those with unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and insufficient physical activity.............https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/vaccine-has-side-effect-that-could-lower-risk-of-heart-attack?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-0852025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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New 'stay home' advice issued over 'incredibly infectious' bug
The UK Health Security Agency has urged people to take note of their advice
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged Brits showing particular symptoms to keep away from others, advising a 48-hour exclusion period post-recovery.
The agency used its social channels to spread the word, asserting that norovirus, which is described as "incredibly infectious", can still be transmitted in the 48 hours after symptoms have abated.
I just wish that someone had read that article last Thursday instead of giving me the coughing bug
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-stay-home-advice-issued-31737875