Ella Pickover

NHS Blood and Transplant is rolling out a nationwide programme that matches donated blood to kidney transplant patients by both blood group and white blood cell, or HLA, type. The £1.37 million initiative, developed after a successful London pilot, is expected to prevent up to 100 kidney transplants from being rejected annually by reducing the formation of antibodies after transfusions. Clinicians and Kidney Care UK say it could shorten lengthy waiting times and improve outcomes, particularly for highly sensitised patients. More than 7,300 people were waiting for a kidney or combined kidney-pancreas transplant in June, while 250–300 people die waiting each year.

Health Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced plans to reintroduce national maternity standards, measured through patient experience and an early-warning system for underperforming services. The reforms follow Valerie Amos’s review, which found repeated failures in NHS maternity care and highlighted concerns about racial inequalities and inconsistent standards. Cooper said women should not feel pressured to pursue an “ideal birth,” emphasizing evidence-based care and informed choice. She also backed creating a national maternity commissioner to champion mothers, babies and families, while acknowledging that maternity services have lost focus on listening to women and putting families at the centre of care.

A review of 25 trials involving more than 8,000 participants found that GLP‑1 drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro may reduce binge-eating behaviours, including emotional eating and loss of control. Researchers from University College London said the medications show promise but warned that current evidence is limited and affected by bias, requiring larger, higher‑quality trials. Experts noted that any potential treatment should be integrated with psychological care, and advocacy groups stressed the need for careful screening due to possible risks associated with these drugs.

An adult with an underlying immunological condition has died from measles in England, following two child deaths earlier in the year as confirmed cases rise to 883. Early symptoms include cold‑like signs, fever, cough and red eyes, progressing to a rash and sometimes white mouth spots. People who suspect exposure are urged to seek urgent medical advice through a GP or NHS 111.

An adult with an underlying immune condition has died from measles as confirmed infections in England rise to 883 this year, following two child deaths in June. London accounts for over half of cases, with substantial numbers also in the West Midlands and North West. Most infections involve children under ten, prompting an NHS catch-up campaign targeting roughly one million families whose children missed one or both MMR or MMRV vaccine doses. Vaccination uptake remains below optimal levels, and the World Health Organisation earlier revoked the UK’s measles elimination status. The NHS outlines key symptoms and urges urgent contact for vulnerable individuals or those potentially exposed without full vaccination.

A new technique that preserves donor livers inside the body for two hours after circulatory death is expected to significantly increase viable transplants in the UK. NICE’s draft guidance supports in-situ abdominal normothermic regional perfusion and recommends specialist preservation machines to reduce damage from interrupted blood flow. Officials highlight the procedure’s strong safety record and potential to add around 150 transplants annually. Patient advocates welcome the innovation as a promising way to increase organ availability and reduce deaths among those awaiting transplantation.

A new AI‑enabled blood test developed by PinPoint can assess a woman’s risk of gynaecological cancer by analysing 30 blood markers, potentially sparing thousands of patients from invasive diagnostic procedures. Trials across five NHS trusts evaluated more than 16,000 referrals and showed the test identified over 99 percent of cancers in elevated or high‑risk categories while safely ruling out low‑risk cases. Clinicians say the test could streamline triage, prioritize urgent cases and reduce unnecessary, uncomfortable examinations, particularly for suspected endometrial cancer.

Health officials urge around one million families in England to ensure children receive missed MMR vaccinations following two child deaths and a sharp rise in measles cases. The NHS is running a catch-up campaign targeting children aged two to 11, with outreach handled by GPs and digital notifications. Officials warn that measles and other childhood illnesses remain serious but preventable, stressing the importance of full immunisation as UK vaccination rates stagnate. The World Health Organisation has withdrawn the UK’s measles elimination status amid surging cases, prompting an intensified national response.

A report from the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman highlights inadequate communication in NHS end-of-life care, citing cases where patients and families were not promptly or compassionately informed. One patient learned of terminal cancer through his GP due to an NHS trust’s failure to notify him, while families reported feeling dismissed. Ombudsman Paula Sussex calls for better information-sharing, record-keeping, and staff training to enable timely and honest conversations about prognosis and patient wishes.

An urgent NHS vaccination catch-up campaign will target around one million children aged two to eleven who missed routine immunisations, following two measles-related child deaths and a sharp rise in cases. Parents of younger children will be contacted by GPs, while notifications for older children will be sent through the NHS App and other channels. The UK has lost its measles elimination status, with only 84.1 percent of five-year-olds having received both MMR doses, prompting renewed efforts to increase protection against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox.

A Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman report warns that inadequate communication from NHS professionals is causing avoidable distress for dying patients and their families. The review cites cases where families were left uninformed or dismissed, including a man who learned of his terminal diagnosis only through an accidental disclosure by his GP. Ombudsman Paula Sussex criticised persistent failures in communication and urged improvements in information sharing, record keeping and staff training. Recommendations accompany concerns over fragmented care and missed opportunities to support patients at the end of life, with Marie Curie’s chief medical officer highlighting overstretched staff and systemic gaps.

A new Phase 2 clinical trial, known as Clarity, is launching in the UK and Europe to evaluate CY-101, an immunotherapy designed to enhance immune response and overcome resistance in advanced adrenocortical carcinoma. The trial aims to recruit 41 patients and follows encouraging results from earlier studies. Patients and cancer organisations welcome the development due to limited existing treatments, notably the toxicity of the current standard drug, mitotane. Researchers and charity leaders express optimism about CY-101’s potential to improve outcomes for people with this rare and aggressive cancer.

AI analysis of nearly 59,000 social media posts found that fitness and calorie-tracking apps can provoke shame, irritation, and demotivation among users who struggle to meet algorithm-driven goals. Researchers from University College London and Loughborough University warn that rigid calorie targets and notifications may harm emotional wellbeing and undermine motivation. They call for health apps to shift toward holistic, wellbeing-centered approaches while noting that the study examined only negative posts and does not capture potential benefits.

Osteoporosis diagnosis rates in England show minimal improvement as access to Fracture Liaison Services remains inconsistent, leaving millions at risk of undetected bone weakness. The Royal Osteoporosis Society warns that current progress falls far short of what is needed and estimates that the government’s target for nationwide service availability may take decades to achieve at the current pace. The government maintains its commitment to expanding diagnostic services and investing in scanning equipment.

Experts warn that osteoporosis diagnosis rates in England have stalled due to uneven access to Fracture Liaison Services, leaving patients subject to a postcode lottery. The Royal Osteoporosis Society urges the government to deliver a nationwide rollout, noting that current progress would take decades to meet pledges. Around 3.5 million people in the UK have osteoporosis, with fractures posing a major cause of disability and early death. The organisation calls for an implementation plan under the new health secretary, while the government reaffirms its commitment to expand FLS availability by 2030 and highlights investments in new DEXA scanners to improve early detection.

Health officials recommend annual reviews for women with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome to improve diagnosis and consistent management. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence advises investigating patients with irregular cycles or signs of excess male hormones and clarifies that laser treatments for excess hair are not recommended due to limited evidence and high cost. The draft guideline also includes recommendations addressing fertility, mental health and long-term health risks, aiming to increase awareness and improve care quality.

Health authorities will offer annual reviews to millions of UK women with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, a condition recently renamed to improve diagnostic accuracy. New NICE guidelines call for earlier diagnosis based on symptoms rather than cyst detection and outline treatment recommendations, including advising against laser or light therapy for excess hair due to lack of evidence and cost concerns, while recommending contraceptive pills as an alternative.

The UK Government reached a pay agreement with the British Medical Association to end resident doctor strikes in England, with the settlement projected to cost £200 million this year—less than the expense of an additional week of industrial action. The deal raises resident doctor pay by an average of 6.6 percent, bringing total increases to 35.2 percent over four years. A narrow majority of resident doctors voted in favor, prompting the BMA to confirm that strikes will cease.

A government agreement with the British Medical Association ends resident doctor strikes in England at a cost of £200 million this year, less than another week of walkouts. Health Secretary James Murray said the deal breaks a long cycle of industrial action and will support improved NHS cooperation. The agreement raises resident doctor pay by an average of 6.6 percent, bringing senior doctors’ basic salaries to £80,730 by 2027–28, while first‑year trainees will earn £41,226. Just over half of voting resident doctors approved the offer, and BMA representatives said the settlement allows progress toward pay restoration and addresses job shortages.

A seven-year-old boy with severe heart failure caused by middle aortic syndrome became the first child in the UK to undergo angioplasty for the condition, enabling him to grow strong enough for a complex aortic bypass graft and kidney transplant. Multiple angioplasties reversed previously irreversible heart failure, leading to successful surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital and full recovery to normal activity. Clinicians have since used the approach for other children with similarly rare conditions.

A seven‑year‑old boy named Elliot Atkins became the first child in the UK to undergo angioplasty to treat heart failure caused by middle aortic syndrome, a procedure usually done only in adults. Doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital performed multiple angioplasties that reversed his heart failure and enabled him to later receive a complex aortic bypass graft and kidney transplant. Elliot has since recovered well, and the hospital has begun applying the technique to other children.

A one-off vaccination programme will offer the MenB vaccine to around one million young people at highest risk of meningitis B, targeting Year 13 pupils and those under 25 entering university or residential further education this autumn. The initiative follows outbreaks in Kent, Dorset and Reading, with health officials emphasising heightened risk among 18-year-olds due to social behaviours and exposure to new contacts. Eligible individuals will receive two doses between July and August, using the GSK Bexsero vaccine. Those in later years of university, postgraduate students and people over 25 starting university will not qualify.

Around one million young people in the UK, including Year 13 pupils and those under 25 entering university or residential further education, will be offered a one‑off Meningitis B vaccination programme following recent outbreaks, including fatal cases in Kent. Eligible individuals will receive two doses, with the first available from 20 July and the second at least 28 days later. Students will be contacted by the NHS, and others under 25 can book through pharmacies, with the health secretary urging timely uptake.

Around one million young people in England will be offered two doses of the meningitis B vaccine following deadly outbreaks, including a major cluster in Kent. The programme targets Year 13 pupils and individuals under 25 entering university or residential education, with vaccinations available from July and August. Health officials cite increased risk in shared living environments and note a rise in recent clusters potentially linked to low population immunity. While charities welcome the move as a significant step, they argue that broader, routine access is still needed to fully close protection gaps.

Health officials confirmed two measles-related deaths in England this year as cases rise to 736, with outbreaks concentrated among unvaccinated children in London and the West Midlands. Authorities warn that measles is highly contagious and can cause severe complications, including brain swelling and blindness. Symptoms typically appear 7–14 days after exposure and include rash, fever, cough, conjunctivitis and a runny nose.

Two children in England have died from measles as cases continue to rise, with 736 infections recorded this year, mainly among unvaccinated children. Outbreaks have been concentrated in London and the West Midlands. Health authorities urge parents to ensure children receive MMR vaccinations to prevent severe complications, while officials emphasise that measles remains highly contagious and potentially fatal. The WHO no longer considers the UK to have eliminated measles, underscoring the importance of vaccination efforts to protect vulnerable groups.

Government health advisers recommended that ministers consider a complete ban on commercial sunbeds due to rising use among young people and persistent non‑compliance with safety regulations. Medical groups argued that operators continue making unsubstantiated health claims and fail to meet UV emission and age‑restriction requirements. Evidence cited in a new report suggests that eliminating commercial sunbeds would reduce skin cancer cases and associated deaths while easing pressure on the NHS.

Government scientific advisers urge consideration of a full ban on commercial sunbeds, citing persistent usage, rising popularity among young people and misleading health claims by some operators. The report highlights continued skin cancer risks from UV exposure and inadequacies in current regulation and enforcement. Health experts, including the president of the British Association of Dermatologists, back the recommendation, arguing that the industry has failed to meet safety standards and that a ban would reduce preventable harm. A referenced study finds a ban cost‑effective and capable of lowering skin cancer incidence and treatment burdens. The government is reviewing the findings.

Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that children who experience persistent short sleep from infancy to age seven face nearly double the risk of depression between ages 13 and 22. Analysis of data from more than 15,000 participants in the Children of the 90s study highlights poor sleep as a modifiable factor, with experts urging parents to support healthy sleep routines. Recommendations include consistent bedtimes, reduced screen use before sleep, physical activity, and calm sleep environments to help mitigate long-term mental health risks.

A study of more than 161,000 obese, non-diabetic patients found that GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic were associated with a 41 percent lower incidence of obesity-related cancers over two years, with even larger reductions in men and in endometrial cancer cases. No reduction was observed among Black patients, prompting calls for further investigation. Researchers emphasize that while causation is unproven, the results support continued research into GLP-1 drugs as potential cancer prevention tools.

Persistent short sleep in early childhood was linked to nearly double the risk of sustained depressive symptoms from adolescence into early adulthood, based on long-term data from more than 15,000 participants in the Children of the 90s study. University of Birmingham researchers emphasized that poor sleep becomes concerning only when it is consistent over many years and noted that improving sleep habits in childhood is achievable and may reduce later mental health risks. Inflammation showed mixed relevance, but establishing structured bedtimes, limiting screen use and creating calming sleep environments were recommended as protective steps.

Research involving more than 161,000 obese, non-diabetic patients indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs significantly reduce the incidence of cancers linked to obesity, with an overall 41 percent risk reduction. Effects varied by demographic group, showing substantial decreases among men and white patients but not among Black patients. Tirzepatide showed the strongest impact among the drug formulations studied. Researchers stress that the findings do not establish causation but highlight the potential for GLP-1 medications to play a role in cancer prevention and call for further long-term clinical trials.

Research presented at the European Congress on Obesity shows that rapid weight loss within a structured and supervised programme leads to greater initial and sustained weight reduction than gradual calorie reduction. A Norwegian study of 284 obese adults found that participants in a rapid 16‑week programme lost more weight both initially and after one year compared with those following gradual reduction. Researchers argue that rapid approaches can be safe and effective when professionally managed, and may help address barriers to accessing medical or surgical treatments. External experts note that the findings challenge long‑held assumptions about gradual weight loss being more sustainable.

Surgeons at St Mark’s Hospital performed the first UK operation using Eureka, an AI-driven tool that colour‑codes tissues in real time to improve precision and safety during procedures. Developed in Japan using thousands of surgical videos, the system was applied during a bowel resection and is expected to support wider adoption to enhance surgical outcomes.

A new AI tool called Eureka was used for the first time in the UK to support a bowel surgery at St Mark’s Hospital, providing colour‑coded real‑time visual guidance to help identify tissues and improve surgical safety. Developed in Japan using thousands of surgical videos, the system overlays colours on live images to highlight structures such as nerves and connective tissue. Consultant surgeon Kapil Sahnan described the technology as an additional support that could reduce errors and enhance precision, with hopes for wider adoption in the coming years.

Chris Whitty warns that relying on weight‑loss injections for adults instead of preventing childhood obesity is morally and medically unreasonable, stressing that rising obesity levels, especially in deprived areas, signal a serious policy failure. He highlights survey data showing increasing childhood obesity rates and argues that prevention, not lifelong medication, should be prioritised. Whitty also discusses limited benefits and significant risks associated with prostate cancer screening and treatment, supporting the screening committee’s conclusion that population-wide screening is not justified.

A new targeted therapy, mirvetuximab soravtansine, has been approved by NICE for NHS use, marking the first new ovarian cancer treatment in two decades for patients with platinum‑resistant forms of the disease. Developed by AbbVie and also known as Elahere, the drug offers improved survival and fewer debilitating side effects compared with traditional chemotherapy. Experts, charities, and patients welcomed the decision as a significant breakthrough that offers hundreds of women in England renewed hope and better quality of life.

NICE approved the targeted therapy mirvetuximab soravtansine, marketed as Elahere, for NHS use in women with folate receptor‑alpha‑positive platinum‑resistant ovarian cancer. The decision provides the first new NHS treatment for this condition in 20 years and may extend survival by about four months for roughly 400 patients annually. Experts emphasize the therapy’s potential to improve quality of life and offer an important new option for individuals whose cancer no longer responds to chemotherapy.

MPs warned health officials that limited NHS access to weight loss drugs is driving people to unsafe black market injections linked to multiple deaths. The health minister acknowledged that restrictions may push patients toward unregulated sources, while NHS safety leaders said they routinely address medicine risks with regulators. A committee chair highlighted cases where individuals died from sepsis after using illicit injections, accusing regulators of insufficient oversight. Officials called for accelerated rollout of approved obesity treatments and improvements in patient identification systems, while concerns about stigma and barriers to care were also raised.

Research from the University of Maryland School of Medicine shows GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy are linked to reduced rates of knee replacement surgery among patients with knee osteoarthritis, with the effect increasing with longer use and newer drug versions. The estimated impact could mean thousands fewer surgeries annually in the US. Experts describe the results as promising for osteoarthritis treatment, while emphasizing the need for further clinical trials.

Weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are associated with a significantly reduced risk of knee replacement surgery in patients with osteoarthritis, according to a large global analysis led by the University of Maryland School of Medicine. The reduction was strongest with longer-term use and newer GLP‑1 drugs. Researchers estimate thousands of surgeries could be avoided annually in the US alone. Arthritis UK called the findings encouraging, noting the potential for these treatments to help overweight patients manage osteoarthritis and delay invasive procedures.

A 92-year-old woman from Harrogate became the first UK patient to receive a robotic-guided electrochemotherapy procedure for an inoperable liver tumour after traditional treatments were deemed unsuitable. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust used robotic needles to deliver a minimally invasive approach combining low-dose chemotherapy with electrical pulses, enabling safe treatment near vital structures. The tumour has since decreased by about 80 percent, offering a promising new option for similar cases.

A 92-year-old woman from North Yorkshire became the first UK patient to receive robotic-guided electrochemotherapy for an inoperable liver tumour, resulting in an 80 percent reduction in size. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust used robotic needle guidance to deliver targeted electrical pulses with low-dose chemotherapy, offering a safe option for tumours in difficult locations. The treatment, part of a European research study, aims to evaluate safety, effectiveness, survival impact and quality of life. The patient reports feeling well and expresses gratitude for the opportunity, with current scans showing her tumour remains stable.

A recent survey shows a sharp rise in blood donations from gay and bisexual men in England following 2021 reforms that replaced blanket restrictions with individualized risk assessments. Health authorities report no impact on blood safety, and charities welcome the increase as a positive outcome of the more inclusive policy.

A change to blood donation rules in 2021 allowing individuals to donate based on personal health, travel and sexual behaviour rather than blanket restrictions has led to a significant rise in donations from gay and bisexual men in England. A survey shows 7.5 percent of male donors now identify as LGBTQ+, up from 1.8 percent in 2014. The shift followed years of restrictions that barred men who had sex with men from donating for lengthy periods. Donors and health officials report no negative impact on blood safety and describe the change as both inclusive and beneficial for expanding the donor pool, supporting patients who rely on blood transfusions.

Researchers funded by Cancer Research UK have developed a urine-based test capable of identifying proteins linked to early-stage lung cancer long before symptoms appear. Created at the University of Cambridge, the sensor detects markers from so‑called zombie cells and releases a compound measurable in urine, potentially enabling routine screening. The test, which could be introduced into the NHS within five years pending clinical trials, may also be adapted to detect additional lung diseases and cancers.

A new urine-based test capable of detecting early-stage lung cancer through biomarkers released by senescent, or “zombie,” cells has shown promising results and could be implemented across the NHS within five years. Developed by University of Cambridge scientists with support from Cancer Research UK, the nano-sensor identifies proteins linked to early cancer development and may also detect other lung diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis. Researchers validated the biomarker in human tissue and are preparing for clinical trials, highlighting its potential to improve early diagnosis, monitor treatment resistance, and enhance patient outcomes in a disease often detected too late for effective intervention.

Two probable locally acquired cases of tick‑borne encephalitis were identified in the UK last year, raising the total to six since the virus was first detected domestically in 2019. Infections were linked to areas including Dartmoor, the Peak District and the Outer Hebrides, with the virus believed to be limited to several regions across Britain. Lyme disease cases also increased, while officials warned of a growing threat from invasive mosquitoes and climate change, though overall risk remains low.

Health officials reported two locally acquired cases of tick‑borne encephalitis in the UK in 2024, bringing the total to six, with risk confined to limited areas including Dartmoor, the New Forest and parts of Scotland. Surveillance also showed 1,168 Lyme disease cases last year. The report highlighted rising mosquito‑borne infections among travellers and warned that climate change and global travel are increasing vector‑borne disease risks. Updated contingency plans address invasive Aedes mosquitoes and the potential threat of West Nile virus, with experts stressing the importance of ongoing surveillance to protect public health.

Research on more than 17,000 middle-aged British adults suggests that around 560–610 minutes of weekly exercise provides significantly greater cardiovascular protection than the current 150‑minute guideline, reducing heart event risk by more than 30 percent. Experts caution that recommending such high daily activity levels may be impractical, advising continued adherence to the established guideline while noting that additional exercise offers further benefit.

Research based on over 17,000 UK adults indicates that while meeting the recommended 150 minutes of weekly moderate to vigorous exercise reduces cardiovascular risk by around 8% to 9%, significantly higher activity levels of 560 to 610 minutes weekly may cut the risk by 30% or more. Experts caution that recommending over an hour of intense activity daily is unrealistic for public health guidance and reiterate the importance of aiming for at least the current minimum. Survey data shows many adults still fall short of existing activity guidelines, though even small amounts of exercise provide measurable health benefits.

A 61-year-old man received a pioneering UK-first brain aneurysm procedure in which surgeons accessed the aneurysm through his eye socket, avoiding a craniotomy. The minimally invasive method, performed at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust by a neurosurgical and maxillofacial team, enabled rapid recovery, with the patient leaving hospital after one night and returning to work within weeks. Surgeons used custom 3D‑printed anatomical models to plan the complex operation.

Surgeons at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust performed the UK's first minimally invasive operation to treat Andrew Wood’s brain aneurysm by accessing it through his eye socket, avoiding the need for a traditional craniotomy. The technique reduced surgical risks and recovery time, enabling Wood to leave the hospital the next day and return to work weeks later. The procedure, supported by custom 3D‑printed models and retractors, is described by clinicians as a significant advance in minimally invasive brain surgery.

Studies show GLP-1 weight-loss drugs reduce migraine-related medication use and lower asthma exacerbations and inhaler reliance, with experts attributing these effects to reduced inflammation associated with weight loss.

A study presented at the European Congress on Obesity found that rapid weight loss produced greater initial and long‑term results than gradual dieting among 284 obese adults. Those following a 16‑week structured rapid‑loss plan achieved larger reductions after the program and maintained more weight loss a year later, suggesting supervised rapid dieting can be an effective strategy.

Research presented at the European Congress on Obesity indicates that weight‑loss drugs such as GLP‑1 receptor agonists may reduce migraine medication use in women and decrease asthma exacerbations and inhaler reliance among people with obesity or type 2 diabetes. Analysis of Danish health data showed a gradual decline in triptan use among women taking Wegovy and significant reductions in asthma flare‑ups among users of GLP‑1 medications. Experts suggest weight loss and reduced inflammation likely contribute to these effects.

NHS patients with operable stomach cancer will gain access to durvalumab after the UK’s health regulator approved its use alongside chemotherapy. The treatment, developed by AstraZeneca, has shown improved survival and delayed cancer progression, marking the most significant advance in stomach cancer care in nearly a decade. Patient advocates and experts welcomed the decision, citing the drug’s potential to reduce recurrence and improve quality of life for thousands diagnosed annually in the UK.

Hundreds of children in England with spinal muscular atrophy will gain access to the treatments Spinraza and Evrysdi after their approval for routine NHS use. NICE concluded the drugs significantly improve survival and slow disease progression, building on earlier access that has already extended the lives of affected children. The decision aligns with a new study screening newborns for SMA, an initiative supported by Jesy Nelson after her twins’ diagnosis.

Routine access to two major therapies for spinal muscular atrophy, nusinersen and risdiplam, has been approved for widespread NHS use in England, expanding treatment for hundreds of children with the genetic condition. Evidence reviewed by health authorities shows these drugs can improve survival, slow disease progression and support greater independence. Families and clinicians report substantial benefits, including children with severe SMA types reaching developmental milestones once considered impossible. Patient groups and campaigners, including Jesy Nelson, welcomed the decision as a major advance following years of advocacy, while a related newborn screening study will evaluate adding SMA to standard post-birth testing.

Research pooling results from 31 studies shows that high‑intensity interval training, combined training, and aerobic exercise effectively reduce 24‑hour ambulatory blood pressure in people with hypertension. Evidence for yoga, Pilates, and recreational sports remains limited. Experts from the British Heart Foundation highlight the importance of regular physical activity, recommending at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, as hypertension affects a third of UK adults and elevates risks of serious cardiovascular and kidney conditions.

Research drawing on 31 studies involving 1,345 participants shows that aerobic exercise, combined training and high‑intensity interval training reduce 24‑hour blood pressure levels in people with hypertension. Experts highlight that regular physical activity significantly lowers cardiovascular risk, while evidence for yoga, pilates and recreational sports remains limited. Public health figures stress the importance of at least 150 minutes of moderate weekly activity and routine blood‑pressure checks to reduce risks of heart disease, stroke and related conditions.

A researcher warned that lift capacity limits across the UK may no longer reflect modern body weights, potentially increasing journey times and compromising safety. Analysis of over 100 lifts manufactured between 1970 and 2024 showed that assumed average passenger weight has not risen since 2002, despite increases in population averages. The findings were presented at the European Congress on Obesity, with concerns that outdated capacity signage may also contribute to stigma. NHS data indicates rising obesity levels, underscoring the need for updated lift design standards.

Researchers recommend renaming polycystic ovary syndrome to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome to reduce diagnostic delays and better reflect its hormonal and metabolic complexity. The Lancet’s consensus statement argues the current name misrepresents the condition, leading to stigma and inadequate care. Health experts and patient advocates say the new terminology will enhance recognition and improve clinical practice. NHS England plans to review the recommendation as part of broader efforts to strengthen women’s healthcare.

Experts recommend renaming polycystic ovarian syndrome to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome to better capture its hormonal and metabolic complexity and reduce diagnostic delays. The proposal, published in The Lancet, argues the current name misleads by suggesting ovarian cysts as the main issue and contributes to fragmented care and stigma. NHS officials say they will review the recommendation, which is supported by academic, clinical, and patient groups.

Research from University College London finds that engaging weekly in arts activities such as reading, listening to music or visiting museums is linked to slower biological ageing, with effects comparable to regular exercise. Analysis of DNA methylation patterns in over 3,500 UK adults suggests arts engagement may offer physical, cognitive, emotional or social benefits that contribute to improved ageing markers.

Research from University College London links frequent participation in arts and cultural activities to slower biological ageing, comparable to the effects of regular exercise. Analysis of survey data and blood samples from over 3,500 UK adults found that more frequent and diverse engagement with activities such as reading, listening to music or visiting museums correlated with younger biological age and slower epigenetic ageing. The findings support recognising arts engagement as a health‑promoting behaviour due to its physical, cognitive, emotional and social benefits.

British passengers from the MV Hondius cruise ship linked to a hantavirus outbreak will be asked to self-isolate for 45 days based on the virus’s long incubation period. The UK is arranging a charter flight to repatriate 17 citizens when the ship docks in Tenerife, while two who disembarked earlier in St Helena are already isolating. A British crew member evacuated for treatment in the Netherlands is in stable condition. The outbreak, connected to three deaths, is believed to have originated from rodent exposure during a birdwatching trip in Argentina.

European heart specialists recommend that cardiac patients avoid ultra-processed foods due to links with obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and overall cardiovascular risk. The guidance urges prioritising home cooking, mindful eating, slower meals and avoiding late-night eating, with doctors encouraged to specifically warn against products such as sugary drinks, packaged snacks and processed meats.

European heart specialists urge clinicians to advise patients to reduce ultra‑processed foods, cook more at home, eat slowly, and avoid late meals, citing evidence linking UPFs to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. The European Society of Cardiology calls for integrating UPF guidance into routine dietary counselling, while the British Heart Foundation stresses the need for both individual changes and supportive government policies to improve access to healthier, less processed foods.

Scientists have developed a home-based Alzheimer’s risk screening method that pairs a finger-prick blood test with an online cognitive assessment. The test measures biomarkers linked to Alzheimer’s and brain decline, offering a scalable and cost-effective approach for identifying those at highest risk who may require further diagnostic evaluation.

Researchers developed an at‑home screening method combining a finger‑prick blood test with online cognitive assessments to predict Alzheimer’s risk. The study found that biomarkers p‑tau217 and GFAP, paired with computerised testing, can help identify individuals who should be prioritised for further diagnostic evaluation. Experts say the approach could reduce pressure on healthcare services, enable earlier detection and support, and expand access for people unable to attend specialist clinics, though larger and more diverse studies are required.