First Data to Show Antihypertensive Therapy Prolongs Life

The first long-term data from a high-blood-pressure study, the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program (SHEP), show that each month of chlorthalidone-based therapy was associated with approximately one day of extension in life, free from cardiovascular death.

A Third of All Cancers in the UK Can Be Prevented, Review Discovers

A third (more than 100 000 cases) of all cancers in the United Kingdom are caused by just four risk factors and are potentially preventable, concludes a comprehensive review of the evidence.

Childhood Obesity Can be Prevented - Cochrane Review

Strategies to promote healthy eating and physical activity in schools and other settings are effective in preventing childhood obesity, says an updated Cochrane Collaboration review released last week.

Memories of Christmases Past in Hospital

CHRISTMASES PAST IN HOSPITAL - by George Watts

Earlier this year, 2011, I came across a wonderful piece written by George Watts, a retired consultant surgeon in Birmingham. He had written the piece way back in 2006, and published it first on BMJ. Although "old", the freshness of the message resonated strongly into me and gave me such pleasure that I decided to share it here with you. I do hope you enjoy it like I did.

Gene Therapy Achieves Early Effective Success Against Hereditary Bleeding Disorder

Study of gene therapy developed at UCL and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital offers first proof adults with haemophilia B benefit from treatment, reducing need for injections with clotting factor to prevent bleeds. Indeed, this is one of the most heart warming news I have come across this month.

GMC Strikes Off Gynaecologist for Botching Vaginal Surgery and Dishonesty

It was a busy week, and I was looking forward to a nice weekend. Well I had my weekend, and picked up a copy of the November 2011 edition of BMJ as I lounged and saw this depressing story. Many of you may have heard the unfortunate story before me. But if you have not heard of the doctor who was just struck off by the GMC in the UK, then this article is for you.