Smitha Mundasad

A five-year study of more than 3,400 primary schoolchildren found that children in London's Ultra Low Emission Zone, whose lung growth had initially lagged behind children in less-polluted Luton, nearly caught up after Ulez reduced nitrogen dioxide exposure. The share of London children with clinically impaired lung capacity fell from 14% to 9%. Researchers say the findings provide strong evidence that clean air zones can rapidly reduce some pollution-related harm, although independent experts caution that differences in travel habits, the Covid-19 pandemic and other unmeasured factors may also have influenced the results. Air pollution in both locations remains above World Health Organization guidelines.

The Wegovy weight loss tablet, containing semaglutide, is now available privately in the UK for people with obesity or certain weight‑related conditions. It works similarly to the injection version and must be paired with diet and exercise, though strict dosing and fasting guidelines apply. Side effects range from common digestive symptoms to rare serious complications. Pricing varies by dose and pharmacy, and its availability on the NHS awaits evaluation by NICE following MHRA approval. Clinical trials show notable weight‑loss benefits, but experts caution against using GLP‑1 drugs for short‑term or cosmetic purposes.

A once‑daily Wegovy weight‑loss tablet containing semaglutide is now available privately in UK pharmacies for people with obesity or certain weight‑related conditions, offering an alternative to weekly injections. The medication requires fasting before dosing and carries common gastrointestinal side effects along with rare serious risks. Pricing varies by dose and supplier, and availability on the NHS depends on a future NICE assessment following MHRA approval. Clinical trials show significant weight loss compared with placebo when combined with diet and exercise, though experts caution it should not be used for short‑term cosmetic purposes and may not address the wider drivers of obesity.