National and International News
Health: Susan Clark - What's the alternative
My mother has been diagnosed with arthritis in her hip and lower back and is having physiotherapy. Would collagen help her condition? And if so, which brand would you recommend?
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Doctor, I've a bad case of self-help
A new scheme is prescribing prose instead of Prozac. Cosmo Landesman says watch out for the side effects
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
First brain cells grown in lab
SCIENTISTS have successfully grown human brain cells in the laboratory for the first time and used them to repair the damaged brains of head-injury victims
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Plastic surgery comes over all glossy
IN A sign that plastic surgery has become something to celebrate rather than keep secret, a glossy women's magazine devoted solely to the art of artificial enhancement is being launched in America next week.
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Health: Protect yourself
The GI diet is not just about losing weight - it can help prevent all sorts of potential health problems, says Amanda Ursell
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Well-off seek free childcare
AN anti-abortion charity set up to help poor women with the cost of bringing up children has received numerous inquiries from professionals worried that pregnancy may hold back their careers.
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Private clinics may get tax breaks
THE government is considering tax breaks for private hospitals in the mental health sector in next month's finance bill.
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
BMA Cymru Wales responds to National Audit Office report on the NHS in Wales
Responding to today's report by the National Audit Office on the NHS in Wales, chairman of the BMA's Welsh Council, Dr Tony Calland said:
"The BMA has been saying for months that the trust management of waiting lists - particularly out-patients has been less than awesome."
Medical News Today 16/01/05
RCGP conference to promote care for disabled patients, UK
With the closure of the large mental hospitals, there has been rise in the number of patients with learning disabilities in the community in recent years. In addition, improved medical technology has led to increased life expectancy. As a result, GP workload in caring for these patients has greatly increased and therefore GPs need support to improve their skills and knowledge of the needs of this vulnerable group of patients.
Medical News Today 16/01/05
Macmillan helps cancer patients get a 'Better Deal' this January
Most people find January a financially difficult month but for cancer patients it can be especially tough. Their illness can result in extra expenses at a time of reduced income and they particularly struggle in the cold winter months.
Medical News Today 16/01/05
Canadameds Says "Put Me Out Of Business The Right Way"
When Pharmacist Daren Jorgenson launched his new Website, Americaputmeoutofbusiness.com he wasn't asking Canada's Federal Government to step in. Mr. Jorgenson, a pioneer of the mail-order pharmacy business in Canada was challenging American citizens to shut down his Canadian mail-order pharmacy by urging their elected officials to bring affordable prescription prices to American pharmacies and American citizens. Because online Canadian pharmacies offer the same, safe prescription medication at a fraction of what most Americans pay, he hopes that the American people will realize this and hold their elected officials accountable for their past and present positions on the issue.
Medical News Today 16/01/05
UNFPA Ships Supplies to Ensure Safe Childbirth and Meet Women's Needs in Tsunami-hit Countries
To protect the lives of Indonesian women affected by last month's earthquake and tsunami, UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, has sent 18 tons of equipment and supplies for maternity care to Aceh Province. Contents range from simple supplies for safe and sanitary home deliveries to hospital equipment needed to re-establish emergency obstetric care for those who experience life-threatening complications during childbirth.
Medical News Today 16/01/05
300 Assaults on NHS Staff Every Day
DRUNKEN patients are turning hospitals into "war zones" with more than 300 attacks on NHS staff every day.
Sunday Mirror 16/01/05
The Lancet Calls for the Creation of a World Institute for Risk Evaluation
A commentary in this week's issue of The Lancet (See pages 191,193) is calling for the creation of a new organisation to measure and prioritise all major global threats to human survival.
Medical News Today 16/01/05
Total Adults with High Blood Pressure Set to Soar by 2025
The proportion of the world's adult population with high blood pressure is predicted to increase from a quarter to a third by 2025, totalling over one billion, conclude authors of a study published in this week's issue of The Lancet (See pages 217, 223).
Medical News Today 16/01/05
Eyelid protein is key to allergy
Scientists have found a protein in the eye which plays a critical role in the development of an allergic response.
BBC Health News 16/01/05
Cholera understanding 'improved'
Scientists have developed a greater understanding of how cholera outbreaks spread.
BBC Health News 16/01/05
'Wait till it's 24 hours a day. It'll be bloody marvellous'
It is Friday evening and Nicki Slawson's working week is at an end. Her job, as an executive with a charity in Kettering is rewarding though exhausting. It is the beginning of the weekend: the time when Mrs Slawson, 37, should be looking forward to some leisure time, perhaps at the cinema or in a restaurant.
The Telegraph 16/01/05
Adults turn to breast milk to ease effects of chemotherapy
Adult cancer patients are taking breast milk in an attempt to to boost their immune systems and reduce the side effects of chemotherapy. A milk bank in California has quietly supplied 28 adult patients in the past four years with donated breast milk.
The Telegraph 16/01/05
Doctors warn of cannabis link to mental illness
Liberal attitudes to cannabis are putting millions of young people's mental health at risk, senior doctors have warned.
The Telegraph 16/01/05
There is case for mercy killing, says aide to Archbishop
A senior adviser to the Archbishop of Canterbury has said that there is a 'very strong compassionate case' for mercy killing.
The Telegraph 16/01/05
The Independent 16/01/05
The Observer 16/01/05
Why breaking up is so very hard to do for women
The emotions experienced by women after the break-up of a romantic relationship can change their brains, according to new research.
The Telegraph 16/01/05
Dial M for myth
Last week, a report raised concerns over children using mobile phones. But years of research has not explained the risks - or produced any evidence for them. Robert Matthews, our science correspondent, reveals why this is a bad call on a health issue
The Telegraph 16/01/05
The Independent 16/01/05
The Observer 16/01/05
The Times 15/01/05
Blunkett bid to halt 24-hour drinking
Home Officials tried to block the Government's much-criticised plan to abolish pub opening hours, fearing that it could lead to increased crime and be a nuisance to people living near pubs.
The Independent 16/01/05
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Clare Balding: In praise of walking
Spurred on by guilt and inflamed by unrealistic ideals, people rush in their droves to join a gym in January and memberships flourish. Overindulgence at Christmas, coupled with tempting offers, cleverly disguise the hundreds of pounds that will be spent on joining an institution that, by March, most members will be visiting less often than the local pub.
The Observer 16/01/05
Milburn fuels 'right to buy' row
More people should be freed to buy their own homes in a bid to break down the gulf between rich and poor, the Cabinet Minister Alan Milburn said yesterday, fuelling a fierce row over whether Labour should extend Margaret Thatcher's famous 'right to buy' policy.
The Observer 16/01/05
How not to be robbed by the council
Ombudsman will slam authorities short-changing older people
The Observer 16/01/05
AstraZeneca suffers withdrawal symptoms
One of the pharmaceutical firm's biggest revenue-earners may have to be taken off the market. Oliver Morgan looks at an industry in crisis
The Observer 16/01/05
Catholic 'sexual health opt-out'
A ROW has broken out between Labour ministers and their Lib Dem coalition partners over plans to exempt faith schools from the Scottish executive's sexual health strategy, writes Jason Allardyce.
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Alcoholic issues
The recent spate of headlines over increased rates of binge drinking, particularly among young girls, and consequent scares over proposals to extend licensing hours, reveal our national confusion about alcohol.
The Observer 16/01/05
Final remedy for NHS dental crisis: pliers
A MAN has tried to extract one of his own teeth with pliers because he could not find a National Health Service dentist to perform the operation.
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
'I converted the whole family to organic - starting with Ronnie's cigarettes'
Rolling Stone wife Jo Wood never worried about what she ate until she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. Curing herself with an organic diet, she turned her attention to husband Ronnie - and his fellow rock'n'rollers. Geraldine Bedell meets the Woods
The Observer 16/01/05
Women need that healthy touch
AN affectionate stroke of the back or neck may bring your loved one far more benefit than just a few minutes' relaxation.
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
So what's in his basket?
Our nutritionist Dr John Briffa is often critical of other people's diets. Now he's under the spotlight...
The Observer 16/01/05
Barefoot Doctor: Darkness palpable
Deflated, panicky, compulsive? Bring on the worst, says Barefoot Doctor. And experience true grace
The Observer 16/01/05
Tackling problem pubs: your rights under the new licensing laws
The new act will allow bars to open 24 hours a day from November (with applications starting next month), but it gives local people far more ammunition to tackle those that get out of hand. These are the key points to help you take on problem pubs:
The Sunday Times 16/01/05
Dr John Briffa: Pregnant pause
All mums-to-be know the importance of folic acid.But do they risk breast cancer by protecting their foetus? Dr John Briffa labours over the facts
The Observer 16/01/05
Ugly games kit turns girls off PE
Large numbers of girls dislike doing physical education at school because they hate wearing old-fashioned gym kit, are embarrassed by their bodies and see sport as intimidating, one of the most comprehensive reports on girls and schools sports is set to reveal.
The Observer 16/01/05
Focus: Do you want this 24 hours a day?
Bars will soon be applying to open round-the-clock. Labour says it will calm binge drinking. Critics say it will fuel it. Tom Robbins reports
The SundayTimes 16/01/05
Age limit to be scrapped on student loans
The ban on student loans for those aged over 54 is set to be scrapped after it was described as 'one of the most blatant pieces of age discrimination in any area of public policy'.
The Observer 16/01/05
Honesty? I'll drink to that
Britain's drinkers are not being helped by a government whose policies are hopelessly ambiguous
The Observer 16/01/05
Don't let the costas cost you your health - or your wealth
People who head for sunny climes to retire risk flying into trouble unless they know their rights, says
The Observer 16/01/05
Where's the filth?
I respond to your report 'The scandal of filthy wards' (News, last week). Over the past five years I have had the experience of my mother dying quite suddenly of a perforated bowel and of several hospital admissions of my elderly father. In all, I have visited a parent in hospital in this area five times. I have never seen dirty wards or negligent staff. The wards and waiting areas were clean and well supervised, the staff pleasant, showing no signs of stress. Both medical and non-medical staff were exemplary in their attitudes. Isn't it about time you concentrated on the positive side of the NHS, recognising the hard work and commitment of the many thousands of people who make our health service one to be applauded?
The Observer 16/01/05
Flagship hospital pays heavy price for independence
When New Labour came up with the idea that the best hospitals should control their own fortunes, no one foresaw the desperate plight that now faces the ailing Bradford Royal Infirmary.
The Observer 16/01/05
Crackdown on happy hour
Pubs face a crackdown on 'happy hour' promotions that offer cheap drink to millions of young people under government plans to head off the growing storm of criticism over the relaxation of drinking hours.
The Observer 16/01/05
Parents demand gag on cot death doctor's lectures
The paediatrician whose discredited scientific evidence resulted in the wrongful jailing of Angela Cannings for murdering two of her children is continuing to promote his controversial theories about child abuse to the medical community.
The Observer 16/01/05
Epidemic of self-harm grips pupils
Britain's teachers, social workers and counsellors feel unable to cope with the growing problem of young people deliberately harming themselves, a new report says.
The Observer 16/01/05
'Only rate cuts can save us'
Top economist says slashed public spending and house price slump mean recession - unless Bank acts
The Observer 16/01/05
FDA Approves New Sanofi-Aventis Meningitis Vaccine
French drugmaker Sanofi-Aventis has won U.S. approval to sell a new vaccine designed to give longer protection against meningitis, a potentially fatal bacterial infection.
Reuters 15/01/05
Supreme Court Rejects HMOs Appeal in MD Suit
The U.S. Supreme Court refused on Monday to review the class-action status for a lawsuit on behalf of more than 600,000 doctors claiming six managed-care companies violated federal racketeering law by regularly underpaying them for medical services.
Reuters 10/01/05
Oleic Acid Key to Olive Oil's Anti-Cancer Effect
Scientists have discovered why eating a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables and particularly olive oil can help to protect women from developing breast cancer.
Reuters 10/01/05
AstraZeneca Reports Death of Crestor Drug Patient
AstraZeneca Plc's cholesterol-lowering drug Crestor has been linked to the death of a patient who developed a suspected case of severe muscle wasting, Europe's third largest drugmaker said on Monday.
Reuters 10/01/05
Scientists Find Clue to AIDS Origins, New Therapy
A single change in a human gene may hold the key to preventing people living with HIV from progressing to full-blown AIDS, researchers said on Monday.
Reuters 10/01/05
Anti-Inflammatory Protein Cuts Heart Attack Risk
High circulating levels of a protein called mannan binding lectin (MBL), which prompts scavenger cells to remove various inflammatory agents, appear to reduce the risk of having a heart attack -- especially for people with diabetes -- Icelandic researchers report.
Reuters 10/01/05
More Colon Cancer Screening Needed
Many people with colon cancer may not be diagnosed until after symptoms arise, even though the disease can be caught earlier with routine screening, a study released Monday suggests.
Reuters 10/01/05
Wyeth Backs Changes to Diet Drug Settlement
Wyeth on Monday said it will support changes in a nationwide legal settlement with users of its "fen-phen" diet drugs, speeding up compensation to as many as 40,000 people who say they were harmed by the recalled medicines.
Reuters 10/01/05
New Report Clears Up Myths About Constipation
The idea that chronic constipation is the result of a low-fiber diet may be one of the many myths and misconceptions about the condition, according to a new review of the issue.
Reuters 10/01/05
Stay Thin by Sleeping More?
A study published on Monday found that people who sleep less tend to be fat, and experts said it's time find if more sleep will fight obesity.
Reuters 10/01/05
Study: Weight Loss Precedes Dementia in Elderly
Weight loss in elderly men appears to be a harbinger of dementia and contributes to their increasing frailty, researchers said on Monday.
Reuters 10/01/05
Heavy Pesticide Exposure May Up Parkinson's Risk
People who come into regular contact with pesticides at work -- such as farmers and pesticide sprayers -- appear to have a slightly higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease, according to new study findings released Monday.
Reuters 10/01/05
Sun Protection in a Pill Seen Possible
An extract of a fern plant grown in Central America, taken by mouth, protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation damage that can lead to skin cancer, researchers report.
Reuters 10/01/05
Viagra Safe with Blood Pressure Drugs, Study Shows
Men who take multiple blood pressure medications can also take Viagra without risking additional problems, according to a new study.
Reuters 14/01/05
Genes, Low Iron Tied to Restless Legs in Kids
Family history and iron deficiency appear to play important roles in childhood restless legs syndrome, according to a new study.
Reuters 14/01/05
Anxiety May Worsen Disability in Older Women
Symptoms of anxiety may speed the progression of certain physical disabilities in older women, new research suggests.
Reuters 14/01/05
Amgen Warns About Higher Doses of Anemia Drugs
Amgen Inc. has added a warning to its anemia drug, Aranesp, for kidney dialysis and cancer patients after studies on similar drugs showed higher doses can cause blood clots and death, the company said a letter released on Friday.
Reuters 14/01/05
Carnitine Compound Eases Diabetic Nerve Pain
People with diabetes-related nerve damage may find pain is relieved by taking a compound related to the popular supplement L-carnitine -- provided the treatment is started early -- according to a re-analysis of data from two large clinical trials.
Reuters 14/01/05
FDA Seeks More Data on Schering Diagnostic Agent
U.S. regulators have demanded more clinical studies of a new substance designed to produce clearer MRI pictures of clogged arteries, Germany's Schering AG and U.S. partner Epix Pharmaceuticals Inc. said on Friday.
Reuters 14/01/05
Electrical Device Promising for Spinal Cord Injury
Early tests are raising hopes that a new device can help people who've injured their spinal cord. Implantation of an oscillating field stimulator, which generates an electrical field, is a safe, well-tolerated treatment that may improve motor and sensory function in such patients, findings from a pilot study suggest.
Reuters 14/01/05
Inhaled Budesonide Safe for Infants with Asthma
Budesonide inhalation suspension (BIS) is a safe asthma treatment for infants, according to a new study.
Reuters 14/01/05
Physician-Nurse Team Improves Blood Pressure Control
Success in achieving target blood pressure levels seems to be improved using home blood pressure measurements to guide treatment in a physician-supervised, nurse-managed clinic, a new study suggests.
Reuters 14/01/05
Physician-Nurse Team Improves Blood Pressure Control
Success in achieving target blood pressure levels seems to be improved using home blood pressure measurements to guide treatment in a physician-supervised, nurse-managed clinic, a new study suggests.
Reuters 14/01/05
FDA Panel Rejects Merck OTC Drug
A U.S. advisory panel on Friday urged regulators to reject over-the-counter sales of Merck & Co. Inc.'s cholesterol-lowering drug Mevacor because of doubts the medicine could be used safely without a doctor's guidance.
Reuters 14/01/05
Smacking ban introduced
Parents who smack their children hard enough to leave a mark will face up to five years' imprisonment from today.
The Telegraph 15/01/05
Case studies: Find out about miscarriages
"Read up as much as you can," advises Nikki Zapico, 30, who has had three miscarriages. "In this country, you qualify for tests if you have three miscarriages in a row. But some hospitals carry out some tests only once, while others do it twice to confirm the results. And there are some hospitals that don't carry out some tests at all. I only learned about that by reading books after my second miscarriage, and gaining a lot of information from the internet.
The Times 15/01/05
Looking after sexual health
We used coyly to call them "women's problems" but now, thankfully, women are at liberty to discuss their sexual and reproductive health more openly. This section deals with those elements of women's health that, if they need specialist care, are the province of obstetricians and gynaecologists.
The Times 15/01/05
Looking after your heart
We've all seen those advertisements with fat oozing out of arteries. We all know that the way we live our lives - smoking and diet in particular - affects how healthy our heart and circulatory system are. Despite that, more and more people are living with conditions affecting the heart. About 1.2 million women and 1.5 million men in the UK are now living with coronary heart disease. The good news is that we're more aware of the danger signs - high blood pressure and high cholesterol, for example - than ever before, and doctors are well geared up to intervene early. Death rates from coronary heart disease are falling.
The Times 15/01/05
Case studies: What my doctors didn't say
You wouldn't have thought there would be many surprises for the respected doctor and clinical pharmacologist Andrew Herxheimer when he went into hospital for heart bypass surgery. But he was taken aback by his doctors' ignorance about the effects of drugs.
The Times 15/01/05
Case studies: Knee ligaments and hip bones
A ski accident broke my knee ligament and high-heels habit
The Times 15/01/05
Looking after your joints
Joint problems will be the 21st-century complaint. We are living longer and our joints are suffering more wear and tear as a consequence. Not only that - more people than ever before are taking part in sporting activities, and sports injuries have escalated as a consequence. About 5 per cent of patients in hospital Accident and Emergency departments have a sports injury.
The Times 15/01/05
Choosing a new you
The Times 15/01/05
How the fit and fabulous stay that way: Sara Baras
Spanish star Sara Baras, 33, suffers for her art and says only death could keep her off stage
The Times 15/01/05
A state of bliss: reborn in a luxury spa
Vanora Bennett lost her bag lady at a luxury spa
The Times 15/01/05
Fit for the slopes
To reach your peak, Mark Frary, The Times skiing correspondent, tests two new machines that help to keep aches and pains at bay
The Times 15/01/05
Spin out of control
High-intensity Spinning classes put many gym-goers on their knees, says Simon Crompton
The Times 15/01/05
Kenneth Branagh: Losing pounds of flesh
In search of smaller rolls, Shakespearean actor Kenneth Branagh hired a trainer and hit the gym
The Times 15/01/05
At your table
Maximise nutrient levels to avoid feeling below par
The Times 15/01/05
Prune cocktails
Once the butt of schoolboy jokes, the dried plum is being hailed as a new superfood and is making a comeback in tasty recipes, says Nick Wyke
The Times 15/01/05
Naturopathy: Not to be sneezed at
Honey and acupuncture helped one hay fever sufferer to heal herself
The Times 15/01/05
Sex with Dr Thomas Stuttaford and Suzi Godson
I am in a relationship with a 55-year-old man but he cannot sustain an erection long enough to have intercourse ot even to have an orgasm from oral stimulation. He has been this way for ten years and blames taking antidepressants. His last relationship ended because they had sex only three times in two years. Is there any hope?
The Times 15/01/05
Lifting the veil on me
How do you find the true you? Novelist Michèle Roberts says the answer is to stop looking
The Times 15/01/05
Be happy in your skin
In this extract from her new book The Body Bible, Suzi Godson says a simple routine from top dermatologists and tips from women round the world will keep you looking fresh and radiant
The Times 15/01/05
What's wrong with your...children's party?
When you go to a kid's party, remember to let your inner clown entertain you
The Times 15/01/05
Hard labour wards
We all know that childbirth is painful. But should it be terrifying, too?
The Times 15/01/05
Analyse this: Darian Leader: Why enough drink is never enough
FIRST it was lager louts; now it's urban savages. A senior judge, Charles Harris, QC, has warned of the dangers of this new breed of hooligan making Britain's towns "revolting and dangerous places". With the proposed extension of licensing laws set to allow 24-hour drinking, we can all look forward to an explosion of violence and vandalism on our streets.
The Times 15/01/05
See through breasts
CANCER researchers have developed a new way to detect small or hidden breast tumours that could prove far more accurate than mammograms
The Times 15/01/05
After exhaustive tests, this isn't the sort of spud I like
PUTTING the low-carb potato to the test, I was not very hopeful for its chances. Saying that a potato is low-carb is like saying that it has a particularly high water content, since all potatoes are approximately four fifths water and one fifth protein (principally starch).
The Times 15/01/05
Calling all Atkins dieters: here is a tuber that doesn't make you tubby
THE potato has been demonised as a fattening vegetable by the Atkins diet. Now, however, potato growers are fighting back with a slimmers' spud.
The Times 15/01/05
Patients still face postcode lottery
SOME patients are still waiting three times longer for common operations than others, despite government pledges to end the "postcode lottery" of NHS care.
The Times 15/01/05
Chiefs demand late-night drinking levy to meet policing costs
Senior ministers are to hold crisis talks next week over demands by police chiefs for a levy to pay for policing high streets after the introduction of flexible drinking hours.
The Independent 15/01/05
Ex-policeman walks free after mercy killing of wife
Shortly after 10am on 15 October, Brian Blackburn put a blanket over his wife, Margaret, as she lay on the sofa in their home, kissed her and placed a flannel over her face so she could not see what would follow.
The Independent 15/01/05
The Telegraph 15/01/05
The Guardian 15/12/04
Cold baths reduce worker stress
Having a cold bath in the morning could help reduce stress levels among workers, experts said.
Daily Mail 13/01/05
Unsociable hours and commuting turn Britain into nation of snackers
Britain is a nation of snack-eaters, spending more on crisps and chocolate than any other country in Europe, a survey shows. An average of £204 per person is spent on snacks every year, research by the market analyst Datamonitor found.
The Independent 13/01/05
One in 20 children suffers attention disorder
Five per cent of children in England and Wales have been officially diagnosed with the hyperactivity disorder ADHD ministers said this week, as new figures showed a dramatic increase in the prescription of the controversial drug Ritalin.
The Independent 15/01/05
NHS records will be more secure
The Government has attempted to allay fears that confidential patient records will not be secure under the national IT network for the NHS.
Daily Mail 13/01/05
Government to text self care advice
Text messages and emails could be used to tell millions of patients with chronic conditions how to stay fit and well, the Government has said.
Daily Mail 13/01/05
Questionnaire targets NHS bullying
A drive to tackle high levels of bullying in the National Health Service is to be launched next month with an appeal for better behaviour among staff, it was learned.
Daily Mail 13/01/05
Disease risk warning to pilgrims
Thousands of British Muslims planning to take part in the pilgrimage to Mecca were warned to be aware of the health risks they face.
Daily Mail 14/01/05
'More young women binge drinking'
The number of young girls admitted to hospital with mental and behavioural problems caused by alcohol is increasing, according to figures.
Daily Mail 14/01/05
'1 in 3 face high blood pressure'
High blood pressure is expected to afflict one in three of the world's adult population by the year 2025, scientists said.
Daily Mail 14/01/05
Tories blame targets for MRSA rises
Dirty hospitals and the subsequent rise in superbugs are a result of Government targets, Conservatives said.
Daily Mail 15/01/05
Licence to drink sensibly
Perhaps it is our genes that prompt us, or perhaps the behaviour we observe in our parents. Perhaps it is the soggy climate of our island home. Whatever the explanation, there is something that makes many young Britons regard drunken oblivion as the pinnacle of pleasure.
The Telegraph 15/01/05
Father faces jail after row over baby
A father who flew into a rage and attacked two police officers when maternity staff refused to let him take his wife and their newborn baby home from hospital was warned yesterday that he faced a jail sentence.
The Telegraph 15/01/05
Couple jailed over pond death
A couple whose daughter drowned in a pond as they watched television after a trip to the pub were found guilty of manslaughter yesterday and jailed for 30 months.
The Telegraph 15/01/05
Blair 'panics' over 24-hour pubs
Tony Blair was accused yesterday of "panicking" in the face of a backlash over plans for round-the-clock drinking after Downing Street confirmed that ministers were considering a levy on the drinks industry to pay for extra policing.
The Telegraph 15/01/05
Caring for the survivors
Tourists caught up in the Asian disaster and bereaved relatives may need support, says Christine Doyle
The Telegraph 14/01/05
Fat to fit: how Finland did it
Thirty years ago, Finland was one of the world's unhealthiest nations. Diet was poor, people were inactive and heart disease was at record levels. Now it's one of the fittest countries on earth. Ian Sample discovers the secrets of their success
The Guardian 15/01/05
The coming of age
Keeping fit is all about developing good habits and as far as exercise is concerned, it's never too late to start. From running in your twenties to TaiChi in your sixties, fitness expert Joanna Hall offers advice on the best activities for you
The Guardian 15/01/05
How fit are you?
Most of us know we could do more to stay in shape but still kid ourselves that we're relatively healthy. Here, exercise physiologist Dr David Stensel assesses the health of six brave volunteers. Interviews by Joanna Moorhead
The Guardian 15/01/05
Pumping iron or 10,000 steps?
You want to get fit. But what's the best way to get visible results in a short space of time? We put two exercise regimes to the test.
The Guardian 15/01/05
100 ways to get fit
You don't have to sweat it out in the gym for hours every week to stay trim. Andy Darling on how using roll-on deodorant, wearing lace-up shoes or swatting flies could be the answer to all your health worries
The Guardian 15/01/05
Weekend: letters
The Labour "ex-minister" who claims that a Conservative government would be no worse than a Labour one can't have studied present Tory policy in much detail (The Revenge Of The Labour Voter, January 8). From housing to health, from transport to trade unions, Michael Howard is offering the nation Thatcherism redux.
The Guardian 15/01/05
Ask Emma
Each evening at bedtime, one nostril becomes completely blocked.
The Guardian 15/01/05
Labour's contract for a third term
New Labour was the answer to a simple question: how, after years of opposition, could centre-left values of social justice, fairness and compassion be applied to the modern world? Having the courage to change our party gave us popular permission to change our country. Today, though life remains tough for many, personal prosperity is growing and spreading, Labour can put the economy centre stage at the next election.
The Guardian 15/01/05
Ask Rise
Health problems in my final year resulted in a third class degree and this is preventing me getting job interviews. What can I do to about it? PG, Bristol
The Guardian 15/01/05
Masters class: the nutritionist
Most people would be surprised at how much lunches vary across the country. Near where I live in Country Durham, children are quite used to seeing the traditional meat-and-two veg. In some parts of London the children don't recognise such a meal and would be very unlikely to choose it.
The Guardian 15/01/05
Adding insult to injury for front line workers
A growing number of employees in a variety of jobs are having to cope with a rising torrent of abuse from the public. Nic Paton reports
The Guardian 15/01/05
Goldshield named in legal claim
Goldshield, one of six generic drugs firms suspected of defrauding the NHS out of hundreds of millions of pounds through price-fixing, has been named in a legal claim filed by a number of Scottish health boards.
The Guardian 15/12/04
Pet therapy 'helps schizophrenia'
Pet therapy can help people with schizophrenia feel more motivated and improve their quality of life, research has suggested.
BBC Health News 15/01/05
Hair cell hope for hearing loss
Scientists hope it may be possible to treat age-related hearing loss by stimulating the growth of new hair cells in the inner ear.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
GPs question out-of-hours scheme
A group of doctors in east Lincolnshire say an out-of-hours GP service is not serving patients properly.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Death data 'cuts risky surgery'
US heart specialists are not carrying out risky but potentially life-saving treatments because they could 'skew' their death rate, a study suggests.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Opt-out right for NHS IT database
Patients are to be given the chance to opt out of having medical information stored on the new NHS IT database.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Child obesity diabetes risk probe
A study to establish the extent of type 2 diabetes in children has been launched.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Blood chemical is a stroke risk
High levels of an amino acid in the blood are associated with an increased risk of stroke, say researchers.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Alzheimer's drug for brain injury
Young people with brain injuries may benefit from drugs used to treat Alzheimer's patients, research shows.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Minister pledges 'new phase' NHS
Wales' new health minister has pledged to bring in a "new phase" for the NHS, following a highly critical report on Labour's record on waiting times.
BBC Health News 14/01/05
Cheshire and Mersey News
Why was suicidal Sarah left to die?
A PRISON officer was grilled by a Cheshire coroner who wanted to know why a teenage girl with suicidal tendencies was isolated in a cell on her own - the day before she died of a drugs overdose.
Chester Chronicle 14/01/05
Staff 'terrified' by hospital ghost
POLTERGEISTS and ghosts are troubling staff at a former Victorian lunatic asylum in Chester.
Daily Post 14/01/05
Last-ditch effort to save hospital beds
CAMPAIGNERS made a last-ditch attempt to save more than 50 hospital beds at a meeting with health officials last night.
Daily Post 14/01/05
CRIME in Cheshire could be cut dramatically if the price of alcohol was raised, according to the county's chief constable.
Daily Post 14/01/05
More choice to improve diets
CLAIRE Curtis-Thomas MP has a New Year's resolution to help Formby eat more healthily.
Formby Times 13/01/05
Drinking times set to change
TWENTY-FOUR-HOUR bars and restaurants could be open in Sefton by the end of the year.
Maghull & Aintree Star 13/01/05
Couple jailed for killing boy
A MARRIED couple were last night starting five-year jail terms for killing a three-year-old boy they were planning to adopt.
Daily Post 14/01/05
Campaign to rescue home
A CAMPAIGN to save Strawberry Field children's home from demolition has been launched.
Liverpool Echo 14/01/05
A&E departments stretched to limit
MERSEYSIDE'S accident and emergency departments have been stretched to capacity this winter after an "unprecedented" increase in demand.
Daily Post 14/01/05
Cumbria and Lancashire News
Support for heart sufferers
ROSSENDALE Heart Support Group is offering help and support for people and their family suffering from heart problems.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
Cautious over choice
I was struck by the confidence in your recent headline, `Patients will get more choice NHS chief vows'.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
Mental patient missing again
A CONCERNED MP today claimed lessons had not been learnt at a psychiatric hospital after a man escaped twice in two years.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
Sex-swap tragedy verdict
A TRANSSEXUAL died after taking an overdose of sleeping pills while battling against her "inner demons" following a sex change operation.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
AN amnesty has been declared on missing crutches after hundreds of them went walkies.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
Wards open again after virus strikes
TWO wards at Chorley Hospital which were hit by an outbreak of winter vomiting virus have now re-opened.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
ELECTIONS are fast approaching for Lancashire Teaching Hospitals' foundation trust governing council.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
Blame lies at door of PFI
WHILST I fully agree with the comments of Ian Gallagher about Public Finance Initiatives in our hospitals, the fruits of PFI in the health service are there for all the unfortunate public to see. With the cutbacks of essential services i.e., cleaning, nurses, doctors, an increase in management services.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 14/01/05
Caring hospice comes of age
THERE are few people in this country whose lives have not been touched by the Hospice movement in one way or another.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 15/01/05
NHS is Third World service
REGARDING Mr Gallagher's NHS article, believe me you do not know the half of what a mess it is in.
Lancashire Evening Telegraph 15/01/05
Greater Manchester News
Health watchdog on the move
BURY'S new health watchdog has moved into new premises and is ready to deal with concerns of residents living in the borough.
Bury Times 15/01/05
Give up smoking plea to parents
HEALTH officials are urging parents to make it their New Year's resolution to stop smoking for the sake of their children's health.
Bury Times 14/01/05
Mercy crews will answer calls in priority
THE first step of a new system to ensure all patients who call 999 for an ambulance get the best possible response has been backed by Greater Manchester Ambulance Service (GMAS) directors.
Bury Times 15/01/05
An organisation to be envied
SINCE being diagnosed with cancer of the prostate gland some five years ago, I have received treatment of the highest order from the NHS.
Bury Times 14/01/05
Help at hand for parents
PARENTS in the east Bolton area now have better access to childcare information.
Bolton Evening News 15/01/05
Minister to visit in equality drive
HOME office minister Hazel Blears will launch the North Wests Equality and Diversity Strategy at Salford's Lowry Centre on Thursday, January 27.
Bolton Evening News 15/01/05
'MP Idol' defeat for doctor
A DOCTOR from Bolton was pipped at the post in his televised bid to become a new star of politics on Friday night.
Bolton Evening News 15/01/05
One year deal for repeat prescriptions
PATIENTS in Bolton will no longer have to visit their family doctor for a repeat prescription.
Bolton Evening News 14/01/05
The weighting game
MANY smokers fear that by quitting the dreaded weed they will need to tackle another problem - a massive increase in weight.
Bolton Evening News 14/01/05
Why no cash to keep homes open?
IN last Saturdays Bolton Evening News it was reported that the fifth residential care home in 18 months was to shut, leaving 66 elderly residents to look for new homes.
Bolton Evening News 14/01/05
BBC spotlight on cops' fight to cut road deaths
TRAFFIC police from Cheshire are set to become TV stars in millions of homes. A one-off BBC1 documentary special will be shown on Monday at 9pm, followed by a further six programmes at dates yet to be fixed.
Manchester Evening News 15/01/05
Hotline rush in battle to beat the cigs
HEALTH bosses are celebrating after a new M.E.N. quit smoking hotline saw record numbers of people trying to give up the habit.
Manchester Evening News 14/01/05
Using mobiles 'more deadly than smoking'
A SENIOR lecturer at Salford University has claimed that regularly using a mobile phone could be more damaging to your health than smoking.
Manchester Evening News 15/01/05
The human brain as never seen before
THIS is the most advanced picture of the brain in the world.
Manchester Evening News 15/01/05
