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BBC News - Health

Mone accuses Covid inquiry of 'cover-up'

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:10:36 GMT

She says husband Doug Barrowman and her are targets of a "politically motivated witch hunt".

Doctors' union agrees to resume talks with Streeting

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 21:03:16 GMT

But the health secretary says he will not negotiate on pay, adding that the union has lost goodwill with their five-day walkout.

Wellbeing walking maps to encourage green travel

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:24:10 GMT

The illustrated walking maps guide people along four car-free routes in and around Tewkesbury.

Union and government to restart talks on ending doctor dispute

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:03:52 GMT

BMA says there is window of opportunity in coming weeks to reach a settlement after 12 strikes.

First place in British Isles set to approve right to die

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 13:02:21 GMT

Laws in the Isle of Man to let terminally ill adults end their own lives are in the last stages of debate.

Is the most expensive lip balm always the best?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:38:36 GMT

Do you need to spend more to get the best for your chapped lips?

Children to be offered chickenpox vaccine on NHS

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:18:31 GMT

All young children in England and Wales will be offered a free chickenpox vaccine by the NHS from January 2026.

Best and worst-performing NHS Trusts in England named

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:45:32 GMT

Critics question the usability of new league tables meant to inform the public and let them exercise choice.

NHS needs better plan around weight loss jabs, warn experts

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:27:18 GMT

Experts call for an urgent review of obesity treatment services amid booming demand for weight loss jabs.

Ketamine helped me escape my negative thoughts - then it nearly killed me

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 23:08:50 GMT

Young people are taking dangerous amounts of ket because it's cheap, easily available and helps them "disconnect", experts say.

Which mammals have periods like humans?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:20:14 GMT

Dr Chi Eziefula, a menstrual health expert, explains which mammals menstruate - and how their cycles differ from other animals.

The trade in US body parts that's completely legal - but ripe for exploitation

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 23:09:47 GMT

Human remains can mean profits. But there is an emotional debate about the ethics of the industry.

What is chickenpox and how can I get my child vaccinated?

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 11:51:59 GMT

The NHS in England and Wales will start offering the MMRV vaccine to young children from January 2026.

Inside Health

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

We investigate the safety of melatonin as a sleep aid, and should you eat your placenta?

One way Michael Rosen has coped with the death of his son

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:51:54 GMT

"You don’t die as a human being, you live on with others," Rosen told Saturday Live.

Price of Mounjaro to be discounted in UK pharmacies

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 17:02:46 GMT

The rebate allays fears of a 170% price rise but patients are warned the cost of the drug will still jump.

Which mammals have periods like humans?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:20:14 GMT

Dr Chi Eziefula, a menstrual health expert, explains which mammals menstruate - and how their cycles differ from other animals.

Gym with wellbeing focus welcomes lottery boost

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:37:30 GMT

The Soma Space offers combined strength training and psychotherapy, and prospective clients can be referred.

Error leaves 55,000 diabetes patients needing new tests

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 11:17:05 GMT

Errors by diabetes analysis machines mean at least 55,000 people in England will need further hospital tests.

Inside Health

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Cystic fibrosis care, AI in cancer screening & science of run clubs.

What does hot weather do to the body?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:54:47 GMT

Hot weather during the summer can affect anyone, but some people run a greater risk of serious harm.

Large UK-wide pandemic preparedness tests planned this year

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:36:01 GMT

The stress test will involve thousands of people to help the UK prepare for potential future threats.

Postcode lottery for new cancer treatments, doctors warn

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 01:09:10 GMT

Experts say bureaucracy is "stifling innovation" and that applying for funding to pay for new treatments can be "cumbersome".

Women's healthcare chronically underfunded, says Melinda French Gates

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:43:59 GMT

The billionaire philanthropist is donating $50m to research the issue, as part of a larger $1bn pledge.

The teenage caffeine pouch trend troubling US experts

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:06:06 GMT

Some social media influencers are pushing products to young gym-goers and students, health experts warn.

Why did resident doctors strike and what are they paid?

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:49:33 GMT

Resident doctors in England went on strike over pay for five days at the end of July 2025.

Inside Health

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

We try to figure out why drug deaths are at an all-time high - and what can be done.

How many of us will end up being diagnosed with ADHD?

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 00:36:40 GMT

Experts suggest that the number of people with ADHD is actually going to remain steady.

I lost £15,000 after going to an IVF middleman

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:49:56 GMT

Companies that act as "middlemen" between patients and doctors are not regulated by the fertility watchdog.

What are UV levels and how can you protect yourself?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:47:15 GMT

How dangerous is UV radiation and how can you protect yourself when levels are high?

Is the system letting down people who were harmed by Covid vaccines?

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:48:59 GMT

People affected by rare blood clots say they feel they have been airbrushed out of the pandemic.

Rise in number of people facing hunger in the UK

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:51:35 GMT

More than 14.1 million people experienced food insecurity last year, warns the Trussell Trust.

Covid care home policy was 'least worst decision' - Hancock

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:27:58 GMT

Former health secretary Matt Hancock denied claims the government's attempt to throw a protective ring around care homes in early 2020 was empty rhetoric.

NHS tracker - are hospital waiting times improving near you?

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:38:05 GMT

Use our interactive tracker to see if treatment waits are getting better at your local hospital.

The junior doctors' strikes may be over. But is trouble ahead?

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:43:02 GMT

The end of the pay dispute sounded too good to be true. And now some are wondering if it might be.

How a 'seated salsa' can help your lower back

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 09:30:51 GMT

It's hard to tone your lower back muscles, but this handy exercise can help.

Vaccine roll-outs cut deaths by 60% - study

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:50:54 GMT

The study looked at vaccines deployed during outbreaks of five deadly diseases.

Covid inquiry hears of 'generational slaughter'

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:55:44 GMT

Relatives of care home residents tell the Covid inquiry they will never get over how their loved ones died.

What the NHS can learn from the European country that helped more people survive cancer

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 23:59:05 GMT

Denmark's survival rates record for certain cancers were poor compared to some other wealthy countries. Then it came up with a bold plan

Labour's plan for benefits throws up a bigger dilemma

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:06:29 GMT

The debate has sparked a wider dilemma about the broader purpose of welfare

'My son's constipation wasn't taken seriously until he reached crisis point'

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:11:04 GMT

The number of children being admitted to hospital with constipation is at a 10-year high.

Warning issued over branded kids' magnesium gummies

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:25:06 GMT

An undeclared drug that can cause drowsiness and headaches has been found in Nutrition Ignition supplements.

Sitting up straight isn't the only secret to good posture - here are three more tips

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 00:07:22 GMT

Here are Dr Xand's three suggestions on how to look after your back without turning into a statue.

Covid inquiry told top NHS doctor was terrified

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:34:34 GMT

Sir Stephen Powis says points-based tool was drawn up should need to prioritise patients have arisen.

Students feel 'let down' by mental health support - but should it really be up to universities?

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:24:02 GMT

The number of students reporting mental health concerns is rising. But to what extent should the onus be on universities?

Disabled NHS medic told she's 'not a real doctor'

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:14:05 GMT

Disabled and neurodivergent doctors say the lack of reasonable adjustments is pushing some out.

Alzheimer's blood test could 'revolutionise' diagnosis

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:36:00 GMT

Scientists leading the trial at University College London believe the blood test could improve the accuracy of diagnosis of the disease to more than 90%.

Disabled NHS medic told she's 'not a real doctor'

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:14:05 GMT

Disabled and neurodivergent doctors say the lack of reasonable adjustments is pushing some out.

Brain image doctor banned for assault and racism

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:51:04 GMT

Dr Sayed Talibi is told his conduct was "fundamentally incompatible" with being a doctor.

Lucy Letby's new expert supporters claim no babies were deliberately harmed. Who should we believe?

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:39:20 GMT

Barrister Mark McDonald claims to have the backing of a panel of world class experts who say there is no evidence any babies were deliberately harmed

Pine nuts and goat's milk should get allergy labels, say experts

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:58:27 GMT

Warnings for some 'emerging' food allergens should be added to food packaging, researchers suggest.

How does the disposable vape ban work, and how harmful is vaping?

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:56:48 GMT

The disposable vape ban is designed to reduce environmental damage and protect children's health.

The English neighbourhood that claims to hold the secret to fixing the NHS

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 23:04:10 GMT

With public satisfaction in the NHS just 21%, one area has a plan to shake up its services that could reduce GP waiting lists, as well as unblock hospital beds - but can it really work nationwide?

Assisted dying bill: What is in proposed law?

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 15:30:26 GMT

The proposed law would allow some terminally ill adults to end their own lives. But there are requirements.

AI stethoscope could detect major heart conditions in seconds

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 16:50:15 GMT

The new technology could be a "game-changer" resulting in patients being treated sooner, experts say.

Michael Gove denies trying to circumvent Dyson ventilator checks

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:29:20 GMT

Former cabinet minister says it would be ludicrous to suggest he tried to shortcut safety checks in the pandemic.

How is your hospital doing as NHS battles to bring down waiting times?

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 23:08:44 GMT

Use our interactive tracker to see if treatment waits are getting better at your local hospital

Johnson wanted tighter Covid rules, inquiry hears

Thu, 22 May 2025 19:11:38 GMT

In his diaries, Lord Vallance wrote that ex-PM thought rules were not ruthless enough.

Covid inquiry told Treasury blocked NHS bed request

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 18:06:48 GMT

NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard says the decision, in July 2020, was very disappointing.

Is RFK Jr's divisive plan to Make America Healthy Again fearmongering - or revolutionary?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 23:04:11 GMT

The most powerful public health official in the US is reviled by some medics - but even some of his critics accept that he is bringing drive to healthcare areas that have long been neglected

Adults with learning disabilities die 20 years early, report finds

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:55:49 GMT

People with learning disabilities and autism die almost 20 years younger than the rest of the population.

Vaccination plea after baby's 'terrifying' measles

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 06:15:33 GMT

Eight areas in the North East and Cumbria have seen a slight or moderate increase in MMR jab rates.

Drinks that make you chill - do they really do what it says on the tin?

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 23:37:41 GMT

The wellness drinks industry is booming – but the big benefits they promise might be too good to be true.

Could RFK Jr's move to pull mRNA vaccine funding be a huge miscalculation?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:18:05 GMT

The US is withdrawing $500m for vaccines for diseases like flu and Covid. Health correspondent James Gallagher asks if it's the right call.

When is it too hot to walk your dog?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 11:50:59 GMT

How to make sure your pets are cool and comfortable during periods of hot weather.

One way Michael Rosen has coped with the death of his son

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:51:54 GMT

"You don’t die as a human being, you live on with others," Rosen told Saturday Live.

Covid inquiry to look at impact on care services

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 01:10:05 GMT

The Covid inquiry will examine the impact of the pandemic on care services, starting on Monday.

Will Serena Williams's weight-loss admission help shed stigma of anti-obesity drugs?

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 20:34:35 GMT

Could her comments instil a new sense of confidence in those using the drugs and quieten the critics?

Energy drinks to be banned for under-16s in England

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 08:18:26 GMT

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said he was acting on concerns for children's health.

Alzheimer's has isolated us, says Fiona Phillips' husband

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 13:22:48 GMT

Martin Frizell has spoken of the social isolation faced by the couple since the former GMTV presenter was diagnosed.

I quit my job to run a silent disco exercise group

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:55:04 GMT

The Silent Steppers began in 2024 to promote physical and mental wellbeing.

The doctor strike has ended - what comes next?

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:02:02 GMT

With doctors returning to work after five-day walkout, is there an opportunity for talks to re-start?

Seven-week wait for some red flag cancer patients 'frustrating'

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:03:16 GMT

The target set by the Department of Health for patients red flagged for breast cancer to be assessed is 14 days.

Deodorant firm sorry after 'itchy, burning armpits' claims

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 17:35:26 GMT

Mitchum said a change in the manufacturing process had affected some of its roll-on products after users complained of soreness.

Sleep, exercise, hydrate - do we really need to stick to recommended daily doses?

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 00:08:06 GMT

As a study casts doubt on the daily steps maxim, we take a look at some other health benchmarks we’re often told to strive for.

How close were hospitals to collapse in Covid?

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:06:04 GMT

The Covid inquiry restarts its live hearings this week, after senior staff in the NHS revealed just how close some hospitals were to collapse

Families failed by Covid jabs tell inquiry of pain

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 18:39:40 GMT

They said there was no support after the death and harm suffered by their loved ones.

Babies made using three people's DNA are born free of hereditary disease

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 21:00:21 GMT

The method was pioneered by UK scientists to overcome devastating, often fatal inherited diseases.

How will weight-loss drugs change our relationship with food?

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 03:10:13 GMT

The rise of these treatments has major implications for how we think about obesity, says James Gallagher.

Woman loses faith in hospital after miscarriage

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 05:36:16 GMT

Emma Simmonds says she will never return to the hospital, this week rated England's worst.

Organ transplants for immortality: Might Xi and Putin be onto something?

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 12:25:33 GMT

The presidents of China and Russia were overheard discussing transplants as a way to prolong life.

South Africans fear spike in HIV infections as US aid cuts bite

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 10:06:57 GMT

South Africa has been at the forefront of the successful battle to halt the spread of HIV/Aids - until now.

NHS hours from PPE running out in Covid - Hancock

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 16:58:34 GMT

Former health secretary tells inquiry some healthcare settings did run out - "and it was awful".

Hancock criticises 'wholly naive' Covid inquiry

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 17:14:53 GMT

The former health secretary was giving evidence about medical equipment deals during the pandemic.

Cash to isolate 'would have cut Covid deaths'

Wed, 28 May 2025 15:05:43 GMT

Baroness Dido Harding tells Covid inquiry Rishi Sunak blocked higher support payments.

'Hoarding was a way to protect myself from the world'

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:29:17 GMT

Hoarding is often misunderstood, but it can be a symptom of deep trauma. One woman shares how hoarding impacted her life - and her road to recovery.

Generation K: The disturbing rise of ketamine abuse among young people

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 06:00:36 GMT

Increasing numbers of young people are using the drug, experts say. The health impacts can be catastrophic.

We were not treated as parents, Covid inquiry told

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 14:11:38 GMT

Mum of premature twins says rigid restrictions on birthing wards during Covid were traumatic.

Doctors warn hospitals under pressure as NHS waiting lists rise

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 13:01:27 GMT

The waiting list for planned hospital treatment in England rose for the second month in a row in July to its highest level since March.

Art charity 'buzzing' about opening of new £75m campus

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 17:34:42 GMT

Art Shape works with the NHS to deliver creative courses as prescriptions.

Why are measles cases rising in the UK?

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:24:54 GMT

What are the symptoms of measles and how dangerous is the disease?

Why the world is watching RFK's fight with US health agency

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:24:45 GMT

The US health secretary's plans could have a huge impact on health policy not just in the US, but across the globe.

The Covid Inquiry Podcast: 'I wasn't the decision maker'

Sat, 31 May 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The Inquiry hears from the lead of the test and trace unit

'My first cervical screening was over before I knew it'

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 01:06:51 GMT

The BBC speaks to six people about their first cervical screening, and what they wish they'd known beforehand.

Why we need to talk about periods, breasts and injuries in women's sport

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 23:55:30 GMT

Understanding the pressure elite sport puts on women’s bodies is pushing athletes to new levels of excellence.

Emma is doing something she swore she never would - buying her kids vapes

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 23:21:07 GMT

One month on from the disposable vape ban, one mum says it has had little impact on her children's nicotine consumption.

Hospital pays out after bacteria-linked deaths

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:19:32 GMT

Nine families receive compensation after the outbreak linked to a Cambridge-based hospital.

Michelle Mone-linked PPE firm evidence to be heard in private

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:00:16 GMT

Covid inquiry says hearings into the firm, led by Michelle Mone's husband, must be held in closed session.

Covid inquiry told of trust do-not-resuscitate rule

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 16:54:11 GMT

Patients' families were “horrified but not surprised” when told the blanket policy had been in place.

A walk-in fishermen's clinic saved Tom from sepsis - and could transform the NHS

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 23:01:41 GMT

Tom Parker was treated in one of 70 harbour health clinics after breaking his fibula fishing at sea.

Inside Health

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Shingles vaccine to reduce dementia risk? Antibiotic resistant gonorrhoea & tech trousers

Lab 'revolutionising' maternity training - NHS

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:12:22 GMT

The lab is used to recreate emergency situations so staff can learn in a risk-free environment.

Dr Xand: NHS league tables don't tell you how you'll be treated

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:36:01 GMT

An NHS Trust with a low ranking could still provide good care, the doctor and BBC medical expert says.

Cost of children's homes doubles but care can be poor, says report

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 04:17:51 GMT

Huge sums spent on children's residential care in England do not represent value for money, says spending watchdog.

Fertility clinics must stop unproven treatments, watchdog warns

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:50:22 GMT

The draft guidance advises against many popular but unproven fertility add-ons offered by clinics.