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PLANT-BASED, GREAT TASTE
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By changing the protein at the centre of your plate from animal meat to plant-based meat, it is their mission to positively impact human health, the climate, the environment and animal welfare.
With more and more people choosing to reduce their animal meat consumption,
DR NICOLA GUESS, NUTRITION SCIENTIST, OXFORD UNIVERSITY, RD, MPH, PHD
“Plant-based meat, as a keen runner and weightli er, has been really useful in helping me get my protein in without having to rely on animal meat. What I love about Beyond Meat is that for people like me who do enjoy lentils, but don’t want to eat a diet comprised of only legumes, there are options! Beyond Meat satisfies the need for burgers and sausages and meatballs – without a negative impact on the environment.”
the benefits of plant-based meat products mean you can eat the food you love, with no sacrifice required.
Endorsed by leading dieticians and nutritionists, Beyond Meat offers a mouthwatering range of plant-based beef, pork and chicken-style options, all crafted to have the same taste and texture as animal meat. All products are high in protein and Kosher, Halal & Vegan certified, including the Beyond Burger ®, Beyond Sausage ® , Beyond Mince®, Beyond Meatballs® and Beyond Chicken-Style range, there is something to excite all tastebuds.
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WELCOME!
Dr Amir Khan introduces this issue of Live to 100, where we can all learn more about how to improve our health, wellbeing and even our longevity
Welcome to the latest issue of Live to 100! As you will read in my interview, we’re coming into winter, and we can expect all sorts of seasonal a lictions. If you want to avoid respiratory and digestive problems, keep on top of the hand-washing, and take up o ers of vaccinations. But don’t just stay indoors in the cold weather – remember that if you wrap up warm, meet up with friends and take a walk outdoors, it’s one of the best ways to maintain your health and mobility.
Speaking of which, with our ageing population, we can all expect to have to face certain health issues eventually, but a sensible approach to diet and exercise, and taking into account the changes that come with age, can help us to live longer and more active lives.
As well as giving you plenty of advice on how to maintain your wellbeing, in this issue we’re tackling all sorts of subjects from menopause and gut health to dental healthcare and home health testing. There’s something for everyone in this issue of Live to 100 with Dr Amir Khan, and I’m sure you will find subjects that speak to your concerns and those of your family.
In the end, while we can rely on the good works of the NHS and private medicine, promoting our wellbeing and longevity o en starts with our own awareness of the important health issues of the day. I hope you learn a lot from this issue and that you face the winter with a positive attitude and a spring in your step!
Dr Amir Khan Guest Editor
C tents
10 Interview
Chris Jenkins talks to Dr Amir Khan, Britain’s favourite TV doctor and the face of Live to 100, about developments in healthcare, how the living environment a ects our longterm health, and what we can all do to live a longer and healthier life
YOUR WELLBEING
16 Starting at Home
We should all be aware of modern health issues as the first step to improving our own wellness. Here’s some of the top news from the world of medicine
22 The Superbug Menace
A report in medical journal The Lancet suggests that between now and the year 2050, up to 39 million people across the world could die due to antibiotic-resistant ‘superbugs’
26 Moving Beyond Meat
Adopting a meat-free diet is gaining popularity, not only for its health benefits but also for its positive impact on the environment and animal welfare
30 Relief by the leaf
Medicinal use of cannabis products for pain relief is becoming more common in the UK. What are the rules surrounding it?
32 Losing the Healthy Way
Weight loss is a common goal for millions of people, driven by health concerns, aesthetic desires, or simply a wish to feel better in their own bodies
38 You Are What You Eat
Food, eating and digestion are among the most crucial health issues. We asked Dr Amir Khan about some of the most challenging questions
42 Finding Freedom From Stress
Stress and anxiety are two of the most common mental health challenges faced by people worldwide – but there are many approaches to tackling them
46 Why Sex Matters
When you are thinking about health testing, sex matters. What are the most popular tests according to sex?
Dreamstime, Amigo Talent
YOUR HEALTH CARE
50 Better, Healthier Lives
Breakthroughs in medical technology are bringing remarkable improvements in health outcomes every day. Here are some of the most exciting developments
54 Are You at Risk from Monkeypox?
The media got carried away with the idea of a monkeypox epidemic – but are you really at any risk? We check out the real facts about ‘mpox’
58 Keep Calm and Carry a Condom
Sexual health problems are on the rise, and not just in younger age groups - there’s also a crisis in care homes. We look at the cost of loving in the UK
65 Why Your Guts Can Drive You Nuts
Gut health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, a ecting both pyhsical and mental factors. So what are the main gut complaints and treatments?
73 Biting Back
When dentistry goes wrong, what are your rights? We look at some of the consequences of dental malpractice and how you can fight back against cases of negligence
76 Smile Design
Dental care isn’t just about oral health, it can be about looking good too. So what are the basics of ‘smile design’ and the technologies on o er?
80 Cutting the Fat
If dieting doesn’t work, what are the medical options for managing weight loss? We examine some of the most e ective methods
84 Plan for a Scan
Is it worth arranging for an MRI scan privately? Early diagnosis can certainly be a benefit in many conditions
86 Prostate of the Nation
Around one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer – but advanced treatments are coming on to tackle the condition
91 Stemming the Flood
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition a ecting millions of women worldwide – but modern technology o ers solutions
96 Sleeping Through Menopause
One of the most common, yet o en overlooked, symptoms of menopause is sleep disruption
98 A New Hope for Back Pain
Chronic lower back pain can have many causes, but it’s always debilitating. What are the solutions?
103 DIY Health
With the di iculties of getting an appointment with a GP, what can you do to diagnose your own health conditions at home?
106 The Cost of Care
NHS treatment can be great, but can involve delay and inconvenience. So what should you look for in private medical insurance cover?
LATER LIFE
110 Life’s What You Make It
It can be hard finding the support you need to keep fit and active in later life, but there’s good news if you know where to look
112 Smiling Through Menopause
Some changes brought by menopause are familiar, others, like its e ects on the mouth and teeth, less so
114 The Crisis in Social Care
A report by charity Age UK report finds older people are o en struggling due to insu icient access to high quality NHS treatment and social care
119 A Natural Option for Menopause Relief
The natural biological process of menopause can bring about a wide range of physical and emotional changes. Can CBD o er relief from the symptoms?
122 Vitamins for Vitality
Our requirements for vitamins and minerals changes with age and sex. What should you be topping up on as the years go by?
128 Joint E ort
While joint replacement surgeries can significantly improve quality of life, it’s always preferable to maintain joint health to avoid surgery for as long as possible
All material in Live to 100 with Dr Amir Khan is wholly copyright and reproduction without the written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Products and services included in this publication do not imply endorsement by Dr Amir Khan. The views expressed in this publication are entirely those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of Celebrity Angels. The information in this publication is carefully researched and produced in good faith, however, neither the Publisher nor the Editors accept responsibility for any errors. The Celebrity Angels Series is published in the UK under licence by Damson Media Limited. Damson Media Limited is registered in England and Wales under registration no. 07869300.
Talking About Better Health
Chris Jenkins talks to Dr Amir Khan, Britain’s favourite TV doctor and the face of Live to 100, about seasonal health issues, how to handle stress and anxiety, and what we can all do to live a longer and healthier life
WHAT SEASONAL CONDITIONS SHOULD WE LOOK OUT FOR, MOVING INTO WINTER? WHAT VACCINATIONS SHOULD WE CONSIDER?
AK Winter is the season for viruses, and we are seeing a lot of them. Although these viruses are around all year round, we see peaks of infection in the winter as the drier colder air makes it easier for them to spread and we often spend more time indoors in enclosed spaces when it’s cold outside, so infections spread quicker. Cold, flu and Covid-19 viruses are the most common respiratory viruses around. Their main way of spreading is through the air – infected people breathe out tiny particles that contain the virus which can linger in the air and be breathed in by other unsuspecting people who then get infected. A good way to reduce this risk is to ventilate indoor spaces, whether that’s opening a window and letting fresh air in or investing in an air filter system such as a HEPA filter. Also wash your hands regularly in case you have touched a surface that is harbouring one of these viruses and try to keep the hands of children and
grandchildren clean, a good tip is to get them to wash their hands with soap and water when they get back from school, before each meal and after using the toilet.
Norovirus, or the winter vomiting bug is another one to look out for. This one is spread through contaminated surfaces, so think doorknobs, communal keyboards and kitchen surfaces. This virus can give you unpleasant vomiting and diarrhoea symptoms – again handwashing is really important here, and it must be with soap and water as alcohol gels won’t kill norovirus. So, keep on top of hand washing and disinfect communal surfaces frequently.
I would advise getting the flu jab if you are eligible, this protects against the strains of flu the experts think most likely to be around this season. Also consider the covid and shingles jab if you are eligible. Some people will be offered the pneumococcal vaccine - this protects against serious strep pneumoniae infections which can cause pneumonia, meningitis and even sepsis in some cases, it is worth taking this if you are eligible. »
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT THE MEDICAL USE OF CBD AND CANNABIS PRODUCTS?
AK CBD, or cannabidiol is an element found in the cannabis sativa plant - there are many elements in this plant and people worry if CBD might make them high. It is actually tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which gives you a high from cannabis, not CBD.
There are some studies which show that CBD can help in the management in certain types of epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, but more studies are needed before we can recommend them robustly. Some people find it helps with chronic pain management, but again we need more long-term studies to support this. And some people find it may help with low mood or anxiety, but without more research into this area we cannot say definitively that is the case.
Like any medication or supplement you take, CBD has potential side effects:
drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness and poor coordination. It may also interact with medication you are already on, so it’s worth checking that first.
My own personal feelings on CBD are that it has a place in medical conditions like certain types of epilepsy. Many people with chronic diseases and those who live in chronic pain are often let down by conventional therapies. Their epilepsy may not be well controlled, and truth be told, we don’t have any effective longterm medication that manages pain well, so CBD may appear like an attractive option for them. For epilepsy, always speak to your consultant and get it on prescription. Only certain doctors are trained to give out prescriptions for CBD. If you are buying it over the counter for other health conditions, do your research, make sure it is from a reputable source and that it won’t interact with any of your existing medication.
STRESS AND ANXIETY SEEM TO BE GROWING PROBLEMS FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES. WHAT ARE YOUR PREFERRED APPROACHES TO DEALING WITH THEM?
AK Modern life is stressful - work, family commitments, maybe you have caring responsibilities or financial worries, it all adds up. If you are really struggling with your mental health, then I would always advocate speaking to a healthcare professional and getting support that way, but there are things we can all do to reduce stress and improve our mood. Getting enough sleep is key to our mood. Sleep should be considered as important as food and exercise when it comes to our health, it really is that good for us. We should aim to get seven or eight hours of decent quality sleep most nights. Sleep helps our brain reset and it also helps “clean” our brains – all of this aids good mood and less anxiety.
Regular exercise has been proven to
improve our mood, even if its something as simple as gardening or going for a walk. Exercise releases endorphins which li our mood in the long terms and happy brain chemicals that keep us feeling happier and more relaxed in the short term.
Getting outdoors in green spaces is also great for our mental health. Studies show those of us who spend two hours a week in nature have better mental health. So, this season, put your big coat on and get outdoors into a park, woodland or walk along a local beach. When we are outside in nature our stress hormone, cortisol goes down, and our happy brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine go up - this can lower our heart rate and blood pressure, making us feel calmer and more relaxed.
And finally, socialise! Seeing your friends for a co ee or meeting them for lunch is a great way to reduce the risk of social isolation and loneliness. All of this not only improves your mood, but can also reduce your risk of dementia too, so send that text, make that call and invite your friends or family out for a co ee.
IS MEDICAL SELF-TESTING AT HOME EFFECTIVE? FOR WHAT CONDITIONS IS IT MOST USEFUL?
AK We live in a modern world, lots of people have gadgets which monitor their blood pressure, heart rate and even send blood glucose readings to their phones without the need for a finger prick blood test.
If you are one of those people who finds motivation in knowing what your readings
for such things are, then more power to you and keep going.
My concerns is that some gadgets can be expensive and thus only available to people who can a ord them, creating a wider health and wealth divide. Most of us don’t need such things and maintaining a healthy balanced diet, getting good quality sleep, doing regular exercise and socialising with friends and family as well as getting out in nature will ensure good health for as long as possible.
The only things I would really recommend to anyone over the age of forty is a simple blood pressure monitor to keep at home. Check your readings regularly a er you have been sitting and feeling relaxed, if you get frequent readings of 135/85 or above, see your GP for advice. With regards to those continuous blood sugar monitors we o en see stuck to the tops of people’s arms, unless you have diabetes, you don’t really need them. Sorry, but o en simple rules are the best ones!
DOES MENOPAUSE GET ENOUGH ATTENTION FROM THE MEDICAL COMMUNITY? WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO DEAL WITH THE SYMPTOMS?
AK We are definitely getting better at talking about menopause, thanks to many celebrities who have been very open with their struggles with the menopause. The symptoms of the menopause are wide and varied, some people will breeze through it without a worry, others will find it extremely di icult and will need help. Symptoms include hot flushes, weight gain, joint pains, itchy skin, low mood, anxiety and dryness in the genital area.
As with most things, sleep, exercise and a balanced diet will help with symptoms. But if you are really struggling speak to your doctor about going on HRT, they will counsel you on the pros and cons and help you decide if it’s right for you. They may suggest alternatives to HRT if you are unable to take it for medical reasons, but it’s always worth talking about. »
JOINT REPLACEMENT IS BECOMING MORE COMMON AND STRAIGHTFORWARD, BUT WHAT CAN WE DO TO AVOID IT BEING NECESSARY FOR AS LONG AS POSSIBLE?
AK Joint replacement surgery is becoming more common and is often unavoidable, but there are things we can all do to keep our joints healthy for as long as possible.
Maintaining a healthy weight is key, excess weight puts additional pressure on your joints especially knees and hips. Keeping your weight down reduces the risk of joint and cartilage damage.
Try to keep physically active, moving your joints help lubricate them and keep them supple. It also keeps the tendons and muscles which support your joints flexible and strong. Opt for low-impact sports like cycling, swimming or yoga if you suffer from joint pains.
Try to keep as strong and flexible as you can. Building muscle around your joints through strength training helps
absorb shock and reduce the load on your joints. Focus on exercises that strengthen your core, hips and knee muscles. And don’t forget to stretch – this improves flexibility and the range of movement of each joint.
Food is important too – you want food rich in omega 3 fatty acids such as walnuts and flaxseeds as well as oily fish, like mackerel and tuna. Vitamin D, calcium, protein and antioxidants are all important for good bone and joint health. And drink plenty of water, staying hydrated helps keep your joints lubricated.
By keeping to these practices, you can reduce the risk of joint issues and keep your joints healthy for the long term.
HOW DID YOU APPROACH WRITING YOUR DEBUT NOVEL HOW (NOT) TO HAVE AN ARRANGED MARRIAGE ? WHAT ELSE HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING ON?
AK I really wanted to write a book about my South Asian heritage, it’s an important
part of who I am. Weddings are a huge part of the our culture, the music, the pomp , the food and dancing is what a lot of people know about, but they don’t know about the drama that goes on behind the scenes.
There is a lot of competition to find the most eligible husband or wife and have the biggest and most lavish weddings. I had seen all of these dramas unfold growing up and wanted to capture them in my book. I had the title picked out before I even had the story, but I knew which elements of south Asian culture I wanted to highlight so I wrote a love story pitched around that and it came out beautifully.
I am so busy at the moment, alongside the NHS GP work and television work I do, I am working on a cookbook with my mum filled with authentic Asian recipes we had growing up and also healthy nutritious recipes I eat now as a doctor, I can’t wait to get this book out there! ■
STARTING AT HOME
We should all be aware of modern health issues as the first step to improving our own wellness. Here’s some of the top news from the world of medicine
CANCER MORTALITIES FALL
New figures show that the NHS diagnosed over 11,000 more cancers in 2022, reaching a new record high level – with almost 950 people a day getting a diagnosis in England.
The latest cancer registration statistics show more cancers were diagnosed in 2022, with 346,217 new diagnoses – on average 948 a day – compared to 329,664 in 2021 (an increase of 5%).
The figures show that among men there was a 7% increase in overall cancer diagnoses in 2022, from 167,917 to 180,877. This was mainly due to the increase in prostate cancers which rose by more than a quarter to 54,732. In women, there was a 2% increase in diagnoses, from 161,747 to 165,340. More cancers continue to be diagnosed and registered among men (180,877) than women (165,340).
After prostate and breast cancer, the next most commonly diagnosed in 2022 were lung and then bowel cancer.
The higher rates of diagnosis are in part likely to reflect the work of the NHS in 2022 to encourage people to come forward for checks to catch up on the effects of the Covid pandemic, following a reduction in the numbers coming forward and starting treatment.
The data also shows that mortality rates from cancer are continuing to reduce – in men the rate fell from 345 deaths per 100,000 people in 2011 to 299 deaths per 100,000 people in 2022. Similarly, for women, the rate fell from 237 deaths per 100,000 people in 2011 to 212 deaths per 100,000 people in 2022.
GET YOUR WINTER JABS NOW
The first 2024 seasonal vaccination data showed more than 5.7 million Covid or flu vaccines have been given in the week ending October 17th (2,181,198 COVID-19 and 3,556,236 flu vaccinations administered week ending 13 October) as those eligible come forward to get their protection.
Covid jabs were rolled out to those eligible on 3rd October, and in just 10 days since then, NHS staff delivered almost 4 million vaccines (3,794,214 from 3rd to 13th October).
Flu jabs were available for pregnant women and children since 1st September to help stop the virus spreading as schools returned and are now fully rolled out across the country to all remaining eligible groups.
The flu vaccine is the best defence for those most at risk as the weather gets colder and more people gather indoors, with the total number of these jabs given this autumn now at almost 7 million (6,915,744 since 1st September).
Across the country, NHS staff worked hard to devise innovative ways of delivering vaccinations to make it as easy as possible for people to receive their jabs – like setting up a mobile unit in a supermarket car park in the Midlands, training care home staff to deliver jabs to residents in their own space across the North West, or hosting a pop-up clinic in a local rugby club in North East and Yorkshire.
The NHS invited over 11 million people in England to come forward, but those that are eligible do not have to wait to receive an invitation to be able to book.
Anyone eligible can book a Covid-19 or flu vaccine appointment via the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119 for free. The flu vaccine can also be booked by searching online for a local pharmacy and there are walk in sites available to get the Covid-19 vaccine.
WOMEN URGED TO GET BREAST SCREENING
Women aged 50 to 70 across England are being urged to take up invitations to breast screening as the NHS redoubles its bid to reach millions of women not yet taking up the potentially life-saving offer.
Last year alone, NHS breast screening services detected cancers in 18,942 women across England, which otherwise may not have been diagnosed and treated until a later stage.
However, analysis of the latest NHS data shows that between 2018/19 and 2022/23, a total of 8.59 million breast screening appointments were attended (within six months of invitation) out of 13.05 million invitations.
Despite rising uptake overall last year, the latest annual (2022/23) data shows more than a third of
women (35.4%) did not take up the offer of screening following an invitation, with 2.18 million eligible women not having had a breast screen in the last three years.
Around four in every 100 women screened are asked to come back for more tests after screening and offered care and treatment as required. Of these four women, one will be found to have cancer, with screening preventing an estimated 1,300 deaths from breast cancer each year in the UK.
The NHS is renewing its call for anyone invited to take up the offer of breast screening to give the best chance of cancer being picked up and treated as early as possible to help give the best possible outcomes.
PARALYMPIAN PROMOTES MENINGITIS JABS
The NHS is urging students and parents of young children to get themselves and their loved ones protected against meningitis ahead of an expected surge in cases that typically follow the start of the academic year.
Gold Medal-winning Paralympian, Aaron Phipps MBE, who lost his limbs due to the potentially debilitating disease aged 15, is joining the NHS call and warning people not to think “it will never happen to you or your child”.
Meningitis progresses rapidly and can lead to serious health complications such as brain damage, hearing or limb loss, or even death if not treated promptly. It is estimated up to one person in every two or three who survives bacterial meningitis is left with one or more permanent problem.
The NHS is urging young adults and parents to ensure that they or their children have been fully vaccinated against meningitis and to speak to their GP if they are not sure. NHS staff across the country work hard to devise innovative ways to encourage young adults to get their jabs – like catch up campaigns and pop-up vaccine clinics for university students during Freshers week.
Universities and higher education can be hot spots for infections such as measles, mumps and meningococcal disease due to lots of people newly coming together in confined environments and close mixing, presenting the perfect opportunity for infection to spread.
Cases typically surge following the start of the academic year and remain high right through until March. UKHSA data shows there were 92 cases between October and December 2023, rising to 105 cases between January and March 2024.
The majority of these were from Men B, a strain of meningitis that can be prevented through vaccination, with the most cases seen in those aged between 15-19 years old. The Men B vaccination is given to babies at 8 weeks, 16 weeks and again at one year alongside the Men C vaccine.
Reminders are regularly sent to parents and carers of toddlers not fully vaccinated against meningitis, encouraging them to ensure their children are protected. However, NHS data shows as of 2023-24, more than one in ten children had not received all the recommended Men B vaccinations by two years of age (87.3% uptake at 2 years of age in England, 2023-24).
IMAGES: Dreamstime, Aaron Phipps/PA Wire
NHS MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RECORD
Around 3.8 million people were in contact with NHS mental health, learning disability and autism services over the last year, up almost two fifths compared to before the pandemic.
New NHS figures show that 3,790,826 people were in contact with services during 2023-24, compared to 2,726,721 in 2018/19. This includes more than one million children, with 16-year-olds most likely to be seeking NHS support. NHS figures also show that one in five 16-year-old girls are in contact with services (70,963).
The health service is working hard to close the treatment gap that still exists within mental healthcare to ensure that everyone gets the support they need. As part of work to transform mental health services, the NHS is rolling out hundreds of teams in schools which will mean that more than one in every two pupils in England will have access to NHS support in the classroom by Spring 2025.
The NHS has also asked all local health systems to review how they interact with patients with serious mental health issues to ensure they are receiving the support they need.
Claire Murdoch, NHS England’s national mental health director, said: “Demand for mental health services has been rising and figures released today show how the NHS has been expanding services to treat record numbers of patients – thanks also to additional investment in mental health services over the course of the NHS Long Term Plan, including dedicated spending for community, crisis and acute mental health services to help people get quicker access to the care they need before a hospital admission is needed.”
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The Superbug Menace
A report in medical journal The Lancet suggests that between now and the year 2050, up to 39 million people across the world could die due to antibiotic-resistant ‘superbugs’.
The increasing problem of microbial resistance to conventional antibiotics is well-known, and has led to an awareness of the necessity to cut down on the use of antibiotics, as well as the urgency of developing new ones; but the Lancet report puts into the starkest terms yet the possibilities should the issue worsen.
The new study by the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) Project is the first global analysis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) trends over time.
antibiotics. There is little incentive for drugs companies to invest as new antibiotics would only be used as a last resort, limiting the potential for profit.
It reveals that more than one million people died each year as a result of AMR between 1990 and 2021. The study also estimates that 1.91 million people could potentially die as a direct result of AMR in 2050, an increase of almost 70% per year compared to 2022. Over the same period, the number of deaths in which AMR bacteria play a role will increase by almost 75% from 4.71 million to 8.22 million per year. In England alone, 58,224 people had an antibiotic-resistant infection in 2022, up by 4 per cent from the previous year.
PREVENTION
The top drug-resistant killer is methicillinresistant S. aureus (MRSA) – a lethal superbug famed for plaguing hospital wards – which caused 130,000 deaths in 2021, more than doubling from 57,200 in 1990.
Between 1990 and 2021, AMR deaths among children under five years old declined by 50%, while those among people aged 70 years and older increased by more than 80%. These trends are predicted to continue in the coming decades, with AMR deaths among children under five projected to halve by 2050 globally, as deaths among people 70 years and older more than double.
The findings highlight a vital need for interventions that incorporate infection prevention, vaccination, minimising inappropriate antibiotic use, and research into new antibiotics to mitigate the
number of AMR deaths that are forecasted for 2050.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Dame Sally Davies, the UK Special Envoy on AMR and former chief medical o icer, said: “The numbers are going to inexorably rise, and we are not where we need to be in tackling the problem. It’s particularly bad in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, and it looks as if it is going to continue to get worse, which leads to a worry about how to support those countries to develop their vaccine programs, cleanliness, and access to antibiotics”.
One of the major issues with AMR is the slow pace of development of new
“Antimicrobial medicines are one of the cornerstones of modern healthcare, and increasing resistance to them is a major cause for concern. These findings highlight that AMR has been a significant global health threat for decades and that this threat is growing.
Understanding how trends in AMR deaths have changed over time, and how they are likely to shi in future, is vital to make informed decisions to help save lives,” said study author Dr Mohsen Naghavi, Team Leader of the AMR Research Team at the Institute of Health Metrics (IHME), University of Washington, USA.
ESTIMATES
In the latest study, statistical modelling was used to produce estimates of deaths directly from AMR and those in which AMR played a role. Based on the historical trends calculated, the authors estimate the most likely global and regional health impacts of AMR from 2022 until 2050. Estimates were also produced for scenarios in which healthcare quality and access to antibiotics improve in the future and drug development targets Gramnegative bacteria. »
Their findings reveal that more than one million lives were lost each year from 1990 to 2021 as a direct result of AMR. In 1990, there were 1.06 million deaths directly due to AMR of a broader 4.78 million associated deaths. In 2021, AMR led directly to 1.14 million deaths and was associated of a broader 4.71 million deaths. AMR deaths in 2021 were lower than in 2019 (1.27 million direct AMR deaths; 4.95 million associated deaths) due to reductions in the burden of non-COVID lower respiratory infections, likely caused by social distancing and other disease control measures in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. The team’s analysis suggests this decline in AMR deaths was only temporary.
Over the three decades, trends in AMR deaths underwent a major age-related shift, with those among children under five years old decreasing by more than 50% (59.8% reduction in direct AMR deaths, 488,000 to 193,000 deaths; 62.9% reduction in deaths linked to AMR, 2.29 million to 840,000 deaths). This decline coincided with major improvements in the delivery of infection prevention and control measures – such as vaccination programmes – among infants and young children. However, the proportion of infectious deaths caused directly by AMR increased by a relative 13.6% – to a total of 7.2% in 2021 – among children under five years between 1990 and 2021.
PROJECTIONS
The authors estimate that AMR deaths will increase steadily in the coming decades based on current trends, with 1.91 million annual deaths directly due to AMR projected by 2050 – a 67.5% increase on the 1.14 million deaths in 2021. By the middle of the century, AMR is also projected to play a role in a broader 8.22 million deaths – an increase of 74.5% on the 4.71 million associated deaths in 2021. In total, between 2025 and 2050 it is estimated AMR will lead directly to more than 39 million deaths and be associated with a broader 169 million deaths.
REGIONS
Over the same period, AMR deaths among adults 70 years or older increased by more than 80% (89.7% increase in direct AMR deaths, 519,000 in 2021; 81.4% increase in deaths linked to AMR, 2.16 million in 2021), due to rapidly ageing populations and older people’s greater vulnerability to infection.
Deaths directly from AMR increased most in five global regions, where annual
deaths rose by more than 10,000 between 1990 and 2021: western sub-Saharan Africa, Tropical Latin America, highincome North America, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.
“The fall in deaths from sepsis and AMR among young children over the past three decades is an incredible achievement. However, these findings show that while infections have become less common in young children, they have become harder to treat when they occur. Further, the threat to older people from AMR will only increase as populations age. Now is the time to act to protect people around the world from the threat posed by AMR,” said study author Dr Kevin Ikuta of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and affiliate professor at IHME.
Future deaths from AMR will be highest in South Asia – which includes countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh –where a total of 11.8 million deaths directly due to AMR are forecast between 2025 and 2050. Deaths from AMR will also be high in other parts of southern and eastern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa according to the estimates given by the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance Project.
Offering some hope, the team’s modelling of alternative future scenarios reveals improving overall infection care and access to antibiotics could prevent 92 million deaths between 2025 and 2050. ■
Moving Beyond Meat
Adopting a meat-free diet is gaining popularity, not only for its health benefits but also for its positive impact on the environment and animal welfare
Whether following a vegetarian, vegan, or primarily plant-based diet, eliminating or reducing meat consumption can bring transformative benefits to both personal health and the planet.
A meat-free diet can still be packed with essential nutrients that promote overall well-being. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre, all of which contribute to better heart health, improved digestion, and a stronger immune system.
Studies show that plant-based diets can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. These diets are typically lower in saturated fats and cholesterol, helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure. In addition, the higher fibre intake in a plant-based diet promotes gut health, aids digestion, and contributes to maintaining a healthy weight.
lentils, beans, chickpeas, and soy products like tofu and tempeh are excellent protein sources. Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fortified plant-based milks provide calcium and other minerals essential for bone health. Meanwhile, foods like quinoa, spinach, and lentils are rich in iron, which is easily absorbed when combined with vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits.
NUTRIENTS
Research shows eating lots of processed food and refined grains can negatively a ect your gut health. But a plant-based diet helps boost healthy gut bacteria. Fibre-rich foods especially trigger growth of good bacteria, which lower inflammation and your risk of inflammatory diseases.
Contrary to common concerns, plant-based diets can provide all the necessary nutrients, including protein, calcium, and iron. Legumes such as
By choosing plant-based options, individuals contribute to reducing the demand for meat, thereby saving countless animals from factory farming and inhumane conditions. Animal agriculture subjects billions of animals to cramped, stressful environments where they are o en denied natural behaviours. A meat-free diet can reduce the su ering of animals, leading to a more ethical food system.
Meat production is also a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from the livestock industry, which produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. A meat-free diet can significantly reduce one’s carbon footprint, helping to mitigate climate change.
Additionally, plant-based diets require far less land, water, and resources compared to meat production, reducing the strain on natural ecosystems.
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 mins (plus marinating time)
Cooking time: 10 mins
INGREDIENTS:
For the marinade
320g Beyond Steak
4 tbsp dark soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp ginger, cut into matchsticks
2 tbsp honey
2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
HONEY & GARLIC MARINATED BEYOND STEAK® STIR FRY
Stir fry ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
280g red pepper, sliced
8 spring onions, cut into 5cm pieces
300g rice noodles
2 pak choi
3 tsp sesame seeds
METHOD
1. Add all the marinade ingredients to a container with the Beyond Steak pieces, then cover and leave to marinade in the fridge for 30 mins to 3 hours.
2. When you’re ready to serve, place the rice noodles in a bowl, cover with warm water and leave to soak for 10 minutes until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, place a pan on a high heat and add the olive oil and sliced red pepper. Cook the pepper for 1-2 minutes, then turn the heat down. Add the sliced spring onion and marinated steak pieces with the marinade to the pan. Place the pak choi on top, cover with a lid and steam for 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove the pak choi from the pan and set to one side, then turn the heat up. Drain the rice noodles and add to the pan along with the sesame seeds. Toss all the ingredients together for a minute or two until the noodles are hot, then transfer to a serving bowl and top with the hot pak choi. Serve immediately. ■
Recipe and photography by Matilda Bourne
RECIPE
Medical Cannabis & Pain Relief
Medical cannabis has been proven to relieve chronic pain, improving quality of life by effectively managing symptoms.
Patients with severe pain, often prescribed strong opioids by the NHS, frequently find these medications ineffective and accompanied by widespread, harmful side effects.
Medical cannabis modulates pain via phytocannabinoids, a class of lipophilic molecules that interact with
the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS system is a network involved in the body’s central nervous and peripheral nervous systems, meaning that phytocannabinoids hold incredible pharmacological potential to treat pain as they naturally respond to cannabinoids found in cannabis.
Lyphe Clinic treats conditions where every day chronic pain is hard to manage traditionally, from: arthritis, back pain, sciatica, cancer-related pain, chronic regional pain syndrome, to Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, insomnia, musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain.
Find out if medical cannabis could help your condition
Complete our eligibility form...
Visit www.lyphe.com and fill in our free questionnaire.
Did you know?
Myth: Medical cannabis just gets you high.
Fact: It also contains CBD, which does not cause a high but treats pain, anxiety, and seizures.
Book a video appointment...
Receive your prescription...
With our specialist doctors at a convenient time. Packed discretely and sent via tracked mail to your door.
Myth: Medical cannabis is typically smoked.
Fact: Smoking medical cannabis is illegal, instead it’s available in safer forms; oil, capsules or vaporised.
Myth: Medical cannabis is unsafe.
Fact: When regulated & medically supervised, it’s a safe treatment option.
Myth: Higher THC, has a better effect.
Fact: Higher THC often offers less medical benefit.
I
If
They also hold regular consultations to monitor your treatment.
Personally,
It
Reg, 05 May 2023
Relief by the Leaf
Medicinal use of cannabis products for pain relief is becoming more common in the UK. What are the rules surrounding it?
There’s been a great deal of interest recently in the subject of using CBD for a wide range of therapies including pain relief,
treating anxiety and so on. But CBD, or cannabidiol, is a totally legal and fairly uncontroversial by-product of the hemp plant, treated as a food product, and not the
same as the psychoactive substance THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is also found in cannabis and is the basis of the plant traditionally being illegal in most countries.
However, many researchers argue that THC, beyond its ability to get you ‘high’, has valid applications in some supervised medical treatments, and over the years the medical professional has moved towards a position of allowing closely controlled use of cannabis products for certain conditions, particularly pain relief and for certain types of epilepsy. This raises the question of how these substances should be used, and who would qualify for treatment.
LEGALITIES
Research suggests that 46 percent of UK adults with a condition treatable with medical cannabis live with significant discomfort, that 16.5 million UK adults still believe that medical cannabis is illegal, and that 1 in 4 UK adults would worry about being questioned by the police when using prescribed medical cannabis. Despite this, 1 in 4 UK adults have used cannabis for medicinal purposes without a prescription.
Although the use of medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 2018, the position of the law and the medical profession remains that cannabis is only suitable for certain conditions and must be prescribed by a qualified medical professional. If you are prescribed cannabis by an approved medical practitioner, you will normally be given a ‘cannabis card’ to produce should you be questioned over your prescription or use of cannabis.
prescription by checking with an approved clinic whether your diagnosed condition and medical history confirms your suitability for cannabis-based treatments. If you have been diagnosed with some psychological conditions such as psychosis or schizophrenia, you may need a more in-depth consultation to determine your suitability.
You may need some paraphernalia to store and prepare your medical cannabis, such as an airtight jar, a grinder, and a vaporiser.
It’s still fairly early days for the use of medical cannabis, so it’s hard to say how effective it will be for you; this depends of course on a range of factors from your general health and medical history to the treatment plan and the form of the medical cannabis. This is why regular consultations with a member of your medical team are essential, to check how well medical cannabis is working for you.
CONSULTATION
In the UK, a medical cannabis licence, or cannabis growing licences, are issued by the government. Applicants through the government website must prove they own, or are able to rent, a property that is suitable for cultivating cannabis safely, and have all the necessary equipment involved in growing cannabis.
Medical cannabis is grown and prepared to the most stringent standards to produce a medical-grade product, and can be prescribed for a wide range of conditions, including pain, sleep disorders and gastroenterological conditions. A first step is normally to assess whether you may be eligible for a medical cannabis
You will require a consultation with a UK registered specialist doctor experienced in treating your diagnosed health condition, which can often be done online, then you can discuss whether a medical cannabis prescription may be suitable for you. If it is decided that you are eligible, you may have to obtain and supply your Summary of Care Record from your GP. In some cases you can then create an online account with a clinic and register for a regular prescription for medical cannabis products in a number of forms including dried cannabis flowers or cannabis oils, depending on your symptoms and overall health. These prescription decisions will be regularly reviewed by your clinicians, and regular check-in appointments and continuous support will be accessible.
Depending on the method of absorption and the condition being treated, some patients report feeling effects as quickly as a few minutes to a few hours after taking it. This can be particularly useful for certain pain-related conditions, offering fairly instant relief. For long-term conditions like neurological disorders or gastrointestinal diseases, results may take longer to become noticeable, and regular consultations are required to monitor your progress. ■
LYPHE CLINIC
Lyphe Clinic offers convenient access to UK medical cannabis treatments, available online across the UK and Channel Islands. With flexible online appointments and medicine delivered to your door, Lyphe Clinic offers a smooth, personalised treatment plan. Medical cannabis has been proven to manage chronic pain conditions, improving the quality of life for patients who have been prescribed strong opioids with ineffective results and harmful side effects. Our dedicated team provides continuous support throughout your journey. Book your appointment today for compassionate care and reliable access to medical cannabis to treat pain and many more conditions. Find out more at https://lyphe.com.
Losing the Healthy Way
Weight loss is a common goal for millions of people, driven by health concerns, aesthetic desires, or simply a wish to feel better in their own bodies
At its core, weight loss is about burning more calories than you consume, which is why dieting is a critical component of any weight loss strategy. While there are countless diet plans available, they generally fall into three categories:
Calorific Restriction
This is the simplest and most traditional approach: reducing your daily calorific intake to create a calorific deficit. Popular diets like the Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, and WW (formerly Weight Watchers) focus on balanced nutrition, portion control, and overall health.
Low-Carb Diets
Low-carb diets, such as keto and Atkins, focus on reducing carbohydrates to force the body into a fat-burning state called ketosis. These diets promote the consumption of fats and proteins instead of carbohydrates, which can lead to rapid weight loss, though they require careful planning and discipline.
Intermittent Fasting (IF)
Intermittent fasting is less about what you eat and more about when you eat. By limiting food intake to specific windows (e.g., 16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating), intermittent fasting can help reduce calorie consumption and improve metabolic health.
complex calculations beyond monitoring calorie intake. It allows for a wide variety of food choices, so long as you stay within your calorie limit. Many studies support the e icacy of calorific restriction in promoting weight loss and improving health markers like blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The drawback of calorific restriction is that it can lead to feelings of hunger and may a ect overall satiety, making it harder to stick to the plan. Without careful planning, cutting calories can also result in nutrient deficiencies if not enough vitamins and minerals are consumed.
CALORIFIC RESTRICTION
To e ectively utilize calorific restriction, focus on nutrient-dense foods - fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains - while avoiding processed and highcalorie, low-nutrient foods.
5:2 approach (eating normally for 5 days, significantly reducing calories for 2 nonconsecutive days).
Low-carb diets limit carbohydrate intake, prompting the body to use fat for energy instead of glucose derived from carbs. Popular variations include the ketogenic (keto) diet, Atkins, and Paleo diets. Low-carb diets o en lead to reduced hunger and calorie intake due to the satiating e ects of fats and proteins, and many people experience improvements in blood sugar levels, insulin sensitivity, and triglyceride levels on a low-carb diet.
While dieting is an e ective way to lose weight, it requires commitment, and may not target fat in specific areas of the body. For individuals seeking localised fat reduction, medical and aesthetic procedures provide additional options. Caloric restriction involves reducing the number of calories consumed while maintaining proper nutrient intake. The fundamental principle is simple: consume fewer calories than you expend, and you will lose weight. This approach is grounded in the basic energy balance equation:
Weight Loss = Calories Consumed Calories Expended
Calorific restriction is straightforward and doesn’t require any special foods or
Research shows that low-carb diets can be e ective for short-term weight loss and may help reduce visceral fat, which is linked to various health conditions, but some find it challenging to adhere to a lowcarb diet long-term due to the restrictive nature and the need to avoid many popular foods. Restricting carbohydrates may lead to a lack of essential nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
For those considering a low-carb approach, it’s crucial to choose highquality fats and proteins and incorporate non-starchy vegetables to ensure a balanced nutrient intake.
INTERMITTENT FASTING
Intermittent fasting (IF) involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. Common methods include the 16/8 approach (16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating) and the
IF can improve metabolic flexibility, allowing the body to switch e iciently between burning carbohydrates and fats, and unlike calorie counting, IF focuses on when you eat rather than what you eat, which can simplify meal planning.
Some studies suggest that IF may reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and enhance longevity, but transitioning to a fasting regimen can initially cause hunger, irritability, and fatigue. There’s also a risk of overeating during the eating periods, which can negate the benefits of fasting if not managed properly.
To make the most of intermittent fasting, focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods during eating windows and staying hydrated throughout fasting periods.
DASH
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet emphasizes foods that help reduce high blood pressure and promote overall cardiovascular health. It stresses the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars.
DASH has been proven to e ectively lower blood pressure and improve heart health, making it a well-rounded approach for those concerned about hypertension, and it is nutrient-rich, in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are beneficial for maintaining healthy »
blood pressure levels. Unlike more restrictive diets, DASH promotes a balanced and varied diet that can be sustained long-term. While effective for heart health, the DASH diet might not lead to rapid weight loss compared to more restrictive diets, and reducing sodium can be challenging, especially for those used to heavily salted foods.
Adhering to the DASH diet involves incorporating a wide array of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals while being mindful of portion sizes and sodium intake.
WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU?
Selecting the most suitable diet for weight loss depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and health conditions. Here are some tips to guide your decision:
h Evaluate Your Goals: Consider whether your primary goal is rapid weight loss, long-term health improvements, or managing specific health conditions.
h Assess Your Lifestyle: Choose a diet that fits your daily routine and food preferences. For example, if you travel frequently, a flexible approach like intermittent fasting might be more practical.
h Consult a Professional: Before embarking on any new diet plan, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare
provider or a registered dietitian to ensure it aligns with your health needs and goals.
In conclusion, while there’s no one-size-fitsall solution for weight loss, understanding the principles and potential benefits and drawbacks of various diets can help you make an informed choice. Whether you opt for caloric restriction, a low-carb regimen, intermittent fasting, or the DASH diet, the key to success lies in finding a sustainable approach that fits your lifestyle and health
goals, and just as important, your willpower – sticking to your diet once you have achieved your initial goals is as important as getting started in the first place.
EAT MORE FISH!
Fish is a good source of protein and contains many vitamins and minerals. You should aim to eat at least two portions of fish a week, including at least one portion of oily fish.
Oily fish are high in omega-3 fats, which may help prevent heart disease. Oily fish include:
h Salmon, trout
h Herring, sardines
h Pilchards, mackerel
Non-oily fish include:
h Haddock
h Plaice
h Coley
h Cod
h Tuna
h Skate
h Hake
You can choose from fresh, frozen and canned, but remember that canned and smoked fish can be high in salt. Most people should be eating more fish, but there are recommended limits for some types of fish. ■
Y Are What Y Eat
Food, eating and digestion are among the most crucial health issues. We asked Dr Amir Khan about some of the most challenging questions
Food, eating and digestion give us the power to live and grow, and can make the di erence between a healthy and an unhealthy life. But in a modern age of processed, fast foods and unhealthy options, it can be hard to follow the right path.
We asked Live to 100 celebrity guest editor Doctor Amir Khan to tackle some of the most vital food-related questions –firstly, is a vegetarian diet best?
“The science is clear, plants are good for us”, says Dr Khan. “They are rich in vitamins, minerals and one of my favourite things, antioxidants. Antioxidants are like our body’s repair workers, they undo damage to our cells caused by inflammation and from things like the sun, smoking and injuries. They are found in abundance in berries, and I would highly recommend everyone eat berries three or four times a week, they are like nature’s little health gems. Plants are also rich in fibre, something many of us are deficient in and something that is essential to gut health.”
ETHICS
Of course, there are other issues involved in a vegetarian lifestyle. “I think when you are considering becoming vegetarian or vegan, you are not just considering
your own health but the ethics of your food, the wellbeing of animals and the greater good of the planet” says Dr Khan. “We know that many intensively farmed animals are kept in horrific conditions and the demand for meat keeps that cycle of cruelty going. We know that many forests are being cleared to make way for farmed animals or crops to feed those animals, which is contributing to biodiversity and habitat loss. We also know that methane given o by cattle is a major contributor to greenhouse gases. Our oceans are being overfished to keep up with our demand for seafood and this is having a wider e ect on larger marine life like whales and dolphins. So, becoming more plant-based can reduce your impact on all of these things.
“I will also add that eating processed deli meats such as luncheon meats or too much red meat has a detrimental e ect on your health and can increase your risk of bowel cancer.”
“As a doctor, I have to say there are health benefits to eating ethically sourced lean meats, chicken breast for example or fish, like sardines, tuna and salmon. These fish are rich in protein and omega three fatty acids which are essential for our brain health. And if we had a better relationship with farmed animals, if we treated them better and we farmed compassionately it
would be easy for me to say, yes eat these things. But I don’t find that advice easy, because I love animals, and the bottom line is we don’t treat farmed animals well. It is an individual choice, and I have made mine to be more plant-based.”
So what are the nutritional challenges of a vegetarian diet? “You can be very healthy eating plant-based - you can get proteins from legumes like chickpeas and lentils or beans” says Dr Khan. “Tofu and tempeh are also great sources of plant proteins. You may need vitamin B12 supplements as it can be tricky finding sources of b12 and folic acid from plants. But overall, whether you choose to be plant-based or simply incorporate more meat free days into your diet – you will be doing both your health and the planet some good.”
GUT HEALTH
Our next question to Dr Khan was about the overall importance to health of the gut. Why is it vital to be aware of the balance of the microbiome? “Our gut health is vital to good overall health” says Dr Khan. “First, the basics: Our large bowel is lined with something called our microbiome, trillions of beneficial bacteria, fungi and viruses that help us stay healthy. In return, they simply want to be fed. »
Each member of the microbiome will have a different diet so getting a variety of plants, fermented foods and lots of water will keep them happy. Think of it as eating the rainbow – you want lots of colours on your plates made from different coloured plants. Adding in fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi help add to the variety of microbes in your gut and aiming to eat thirty different plants a week will keep them fed.”
Isn’t it a challenge to keep up that dietary variety, though? “Thirty different plants sounds like a lot, but of you think herbs, spices, nuts and seeds are all individual plants you should be able to make that number up fairly easily” says Dr Khan.
“When you have a healthy gut microbiome, they will reward you with many health benefits. They can aid easy digestion, reducing your risk of irritable bowel symptoms and even reducing risk of bowel cancer. Your gut is also responsible for around 70% of your immune system.
A healthy gut microbiome helps regulate immune responses, prevents chronic inflammation and protects against infections. Poor gut health can weaken our immune defences and increase the risk of autoimmune disease.”
IMBALANCES
“The gut and brain are connected via the Gut-Brain axis. Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters like serotonin which can affect our mood and gut bacteria imbalances have been linked to increased risk of depression and anxiety.
“Poor gut health can also trigger chronic, low-grade inflammation, which has been linked to conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Gut imbalances have also been linked to skin conditions like eczema and acne rosacea.
“So, to get the best from your gut, keep it fed. Lots of plants and lots of fermented foods.
So what would Dr Khan say are the best
rules of thumb for dieting and weight loss? “I don’t like the word diet, I try to avoid it in my consultations with patients” says Dr Khan. “It is often associated with negative things like food or calorie restrictions and in the worst cases, it can trigger eating disorders. When I talk about food with my patients, and particularly getting to a healthy weight, I talk more about adding in foods to their plates rather than taking food away - this might sound counterintuitive, but I have found it works.
“By eating more nutrient-dense foods, such as those high in protein and fibre, you are likely to be kept fuller for longer and not snack on sugary things like chocolate and cakes. Fill your plate up with delicious and innovative salads which contain sweet potatoes, chickpeas and nuts. Have some authentic Greek yoghurt topped with berries and cinnamon for dessert - all of these things are packed full of nutrients your body needs but are low in refined sugar which can cause unhealthy cravings and weight loss. When people focus on eating nutrient-dense wholefoods and ditch the ultra-processed foods, they are more likely to lose weight.”
“But being overweight or obese is complicated - it often involves your genetics, deep-seated psychological issues related to foods and your income, and many of these things you have no control over. Tackling the root causes of societal obesity is the best thing to do - we need political decisions over how ultraprocessed food is marketed and we need better access to wholefoods for those most vulnerable in our society.” ■
Finding Freedom From Stress
Stress and anxiety are two of the most common mental health challenges faced by people worldwide – but there are many approaches to tackling them
Together, stress and anxiety can significantly impact a person’s emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Understanding the root causes, recognizing the symptoms, and exploring the wide array of treatment options can provide individuals with tools to manage and reduce stress and anxiety.
Stress is the body’s response to any demand or challenge. It can be triggered by external factors, such as work pressure, financial worries, or personal relationships. Stress isn’t always harmful; in small
doses, it can help people remain alert and motivated. However, when stress becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can lead to a range of mental and physical health issues. Anxiety, on the other hand, is characterized by excessive worry, fear, or unease about situations that may not even be immediately threatening. While occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, such as before a big presentation or a medical exam, anxiety disorders occur when these feelings become intense, prolonged, and disproportionate to the situation.
CAUSES
Several factors contribute to the development of stress and anxiety. These can be broadly classified into biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Biological Factors
Some people are more biologically predisposed to experiencing anxiety due to genetic factors. Family history plays a role, meaning if close relatives have experienced anxiety disorders, there is an increased likelihood of developing
anxiety. Additionally, an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine can influence mood and stress responses.
Psychological Factors
Personality traits such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, or a tendency to be overly critical of oneself can increase the likelihood of experiencing anxiety. People who struggle with negative thinking patterns or find it difficult to cope with uncertainty may also be more prone to chronic stress.
Environmental Factors
External stressors such as job pressure, financial instability, relationship conflicts, and major life changes like moving, divorce, or losing a loved one can contribute to stress and anxiety. Chronic exposure to high-stress environments can lead to long-term mental health problems if not managed effectively.
The symptoms of stress and anxiety can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral changes.
Physical Symptoms
h Headaches
h Muscle tension or pain
h Fatigue or sleep disturbances (insomnia)
h Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
h Shortness of breath or dizziness
h Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diahorreah, or stomach pain)
Emotional Symptoms
h Feelings of restlessness or irritability
h A sense of being overwhelmed or unable to cope
h Persistent worry or fear
h Difficulty relaxing or enjoying activities
h Mood swings or frequent crying spells
Cognitive Symptoms
h Racing thoughts or difficulty concentrating
h Memory problems or forgetfulness
h Constantly thinking about worst-case scenarios (catastrophizing)
h Hypervigilance or being overly alert to potential dangers
Behavioural Symptoms
h Avoiding stressful situations or people
h Procrastination or difficulty completing tasks
h Changes in appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)
h Use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances as coping mechanisms
TREATMENTS
Effective treatment for stress and anxiety often involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and alternative approaches that can help individuals manage their symptoms.
Two of the most common and evidencebased methods are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
One of the most widely used forms of psychotherapy for anxiety and stress management, CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to anxiety. CBT operates on the premise that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are
interconnected. When people experience stress or anxiety, they may engage in irrational or distorted thinking, which exacerbates their emotional response. CBT helps individuals recognize these negative thought patterns and replace them with more realistic and balanced perspectives.
For example, a person experiencing social anxiety might think, “Everyone will judge me if I speak in front of the group.” Through CBT, they learn to challenge this assumption by gathering evidence: “There’s no proof that everyone is judging me. Most people are focused on themselves.”
CBT is highly structured and goaloriented, making it effective in shortterm treatment.
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping, is a self-help technique that combines cognitive therapy with acupressure. It is often used to reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma by tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on the emotions or thoughts causing distress. »
EFT is based on the idea that negative emotions and anxiety are caused by a disruption in the body’s energy system. By tapping on specific meridian points (similar to acupuncture points) while verbally acknowledging the emotional issue, EFT helps restore balance to the body’s energy and reduce anxiety.
During an EFT session, individuals typically tap on areas such as the side of the hand, the top of the head, eyebrows, and under the eyes while stating phrases like, “Even though I feel anxious about this presentation, I deeply and completely accept myself.” This process is repeated multiple times while focusing on the emotion or situation causing anxiety.
EFT can be practiced anywhere and at any time, making it a flexible and accessible tool for managing stress and anxiety, and studies suggest EFT can reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), improving mood and lowering anxiety.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
In addition to therapeutic interventions like CBT, EFT, and Cognomovement, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage stress and anxiety more effectively. These include:
h Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, has been shown to reduce stress hormones and improve mood.
h Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices can help individuals stay present and reduce feelings of anxiety related to past or future events.
h Adequate Sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can help regulate mood and reduce stress levels.
h Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can support mental health and improve energy levels.
h Social Support: Building and maintaining supportive relationships can provide emotional comfort during stressful times.
Stress and anxiety are common experiences that can significantly impact a person’s well-being. By understanding their causes, recognizing the symptoms, and exploring effective treatment options individuals can take proactive steps to manage their stress and anxiety. Finding the right tools can help restore a sense of calm and balance in life. ■
COGNOMOVEMENT: A New Approach to Anxiety and Stress Relief
In a world overwhelmed by stress, Cognomovement offers a fresh and holistic method for lasting relief. Unlike traditional techniques that address the mind, body, or emotions individually, this approach integrates them by targeting the nervous system— responsible for managing stress responses. Through specialized eye movements and simple exercises, Cognomovement retrains the brain to neutralize automatic stress triggers. This rewiring helps alleviate anxiety, fear, and tension, providing a sense of calm and optimism. By addressing stress at its root, Cognomovement can help to protect against long-term health issues like heart disease, obesity, and immune dysfunction.
Cognomovement is a relatively new technique that blends movement, cognitive exercises, and sensory stimuli to help rewire the brain’s responses to stress and anxiety.
Cognomovement sessions involve thinking about the troubling issue and focussing on the associated bodily sensations whilst tracking the Cognomovement ball with the eyes as it is moved around. The exercise includes stimulating different senses (such as sight, sound, and touch), activating both hemispheres of the brain, encouraging whole brain engagement on the particular issue, bringing the once troubling issue to a place of neutrality.
Becoming Your Best Self
Cognomovement: The Breakthrough in Anxiety and Stress Relief
Sandra Nathan is a Transformational Coach and Integrative Counsellor with a background in psychotherapies and holistic therapy.
She is a Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and Emotional Freedom Techniques International.
In a wellness world overflowing with trends, Cognomovement stands out as a groundbreaking method for anxiety and stress relief, combining mind, body, and emotions into one cohesive approach.
According to Sandra Nathan, Stress Management Consultant at Becoming Your Best Self, traditional stress relief methods fall short by treating the mind, body, and emotions separately. Cognomovement shifts the focus to the nervous system—the control center for thoughts, emotions, and actions. The nervous system constantly adapts based on our life experiences, both positive and negative, forming automatic responses that influence how we react to stress.
Cognomovement offers a science-backed solution that integrates mind, body, and emotions through specialized eye movements, cognitive stimuli, and simple physical exercises using a Cognomovement ball. This unique process creates new communication pathways between the brain and body, helping to rewire automatic stress responses.
After a Cognomovement session, what was once a stressful trigger is now neutralized. Fear, panic, and anxiety are replaced with optimism, creativity,
and fresh perspectives. “The nervous system reprocesses how the brain and body interpret stress, leaving clients free from paralyzing fear,” explains Nathan.
This holistic approach goes beyond just addressing the symptoms of stress—it targets the root cause, offering lasting relief. If traditional methods haven’t worked for you, Cognomovement might be the missing piece.
Test before and after Cognomovement sessions
Cognomovement therapy improved brain function, reducing Theta hyperactivity, enhancing Alpha synchronization, and diminishing subconscious stress for better well-being. Visit www.becomingyourbestself.co.uk/how-it-works/ for full research paper.
To learn how Cognomovement can help you manage stress and move forward with confidence, visit Becoming Your Best Self at www.becomingyourbestself.co.uk and book a complimentary 20-minute discovery call.
Cognomovement ball
Why Sex Matters
When you are thinking about health testing, sex matters. What are the most popular tests according to sex?
As a sort of personal MOT, it’s becoming common to carry out a range of popular health tests all at once. These are o en grouped according to sex, because there are di erences between male and female physiology which will suggest the importance of di erent types of tests and the expected levels of the results.
Male Health Tests
A “Well Man test” panel may include a blood count and ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, a measure of inflammation or infection); cholesterol profile which evaluates heart disease risk; blood sugar levels to assess diabetes risk;
electrolytes such as sodium and potassium; iron and magnesium levels; kidney, liver and thyroid functions; muscle and bone health, and vitamin and mineral levels.
Specific male hormone testing provides a comprehensive evaluation of key hormones that a ect male health, including testosterone, SHBG, and the Free Androgen Index (FAI).
The hormone testosterone causes male characteristics, regulates sex drive and has a role in controlling bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, strength and the production of red blood cells and sperm.
Laboratories will slightly di er in the reference ranges they apply because they are based on the population they are
testing. The normal range is set so that 95% of men will fall into it. The British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM) advises that testosterone levels below 12 nmol/L could be considered low.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) controls the amount of testosterone that your body tissues can use. Too little testosterone in males and too much testosterone in females can cause problems.
The Free Androgen Index (FAI) is calculated as the ratio of total testosterone to SHBG and has proved a useful indicator of abnormal androgen status in conditions such as polycycstic ovary syndrome and hirsutism.
Female Health Tests
A ‘Well Woman Test’ will normally cover many of the same parameters as malke testing, such as ESR, cholesterol, blood sugar, electrolytes, and kidney, liver and thyroid functions.
Specific female hormone testing commonly covers FSH and LH levels, which can help di erentiate between a condition a ecting the ovaries themselves (primary) and dysfunction of the ovaries due to disorders of either the pituitary or the hypothalamus (secondary). High levels of FSH and LH are consistent with conditions a ecting the ovaries themselves. Also commonly included are progesterone, prolactin, and oestradiol tests suitable for menopausal women and used to track hormone treatments and manage menopausal symptoms.
FITNESS
You don’t have to be unwell to want to do some self-testing; many sports and fitness enthusiasts like to monitor their physical functions through a programme of testing which can tell them how their regime is progressing. Fitness testing can include, among others:
Tiredness and Fatigue Profile, designed to identify the underlying causes of
chronic fatigue by assessing key factors such as iron levels, thyroid function, and vitamin deficiencies
Muscle Health Profile assesses the condition of your muscles by measuring key enzymes and proteins, helping to diagnose muscle damage, inflammation, or disease
Muscle and Bone Health Profile provides a comprehensive assessment of both by measuring enzymes, hormones, and minerals crucial for maintaining strong bones and healthy muscle function.
Tests are now being o ered to assess the chances of developing neurological
conditions such as Alzheimer’s; the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) Genotype Test identifies which variant of the APOE gene you carry: E2, E3, or E4. The E4 variant is associated with a higher risk, while E2 may provide some protective e ect.
HOME VISITS
While most ‘at-home’ tests can use a fingerprick of blood, some require a larger quantity, in which case the services of a phlebotomist, a trained blood collector, are required. You can either book to visit a local clinic, or have a phlebotomist visit you at home, which will usually cost more. A test kit will be delivered to your home with instructions as to whether you should fast or stop taking medications before your tests. You should make sure that you are well hydrated before the phlebotomist arrives.
As with self-testing, your results are usually shared with you online, and not automatically sent to your GP, though you can share them yourself should you wish. Bear in mind that no self-testing service will go on to prescribe medication; for this you will still have to visit your GP. ■
examine me
At examine me, we’re taking a proactive approach to healthcare, focusing on prevention rather than reaction. Our e cient, AIsupported blood tests, reviewed by private GPs, o er reliable insights into your health. Whether using our in-clinic or at-home testing, we make it easy for you to manage your well-being. Early detection reduces the risk of medical emergencies and helps maintain long-term health, while our service also helps ease pressure on the NHS. By making health monitoring more accessible and straightforward, we enable individuals to stay informed and in control of their health.
examineme.co.uk
IT’S ALL ABOUT
IT’S ALL ABOUT
PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE
PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE
At examine me, we believe in shifting healthcare from reactive to proactive. That's why we were founded with a mission to offer fast, precise, and convenient blood testing, providing the insights our customers need to prioritize their health and live long, fulfilling lives.
At examine me, we believe in shifting healthcare from reactive to proactive. That's why we were founded with a mission to offer fast, precise, and convenient blood testing, providing the insights our customers need to prioritize their health and live long, fulfilling lives.
What Is Preventative Healthcare All About?
What Is Preventative Healthcare All About?
Preventative healthcare is about being proactive rather than reactive—making decisions today to protect your health tomorrow. It’s a revolutionary shift that focuses on keeping people healthy instead of simply treating illness when it arises. By adopting a preventative approach, you can identify potential health risks early,
Preventative healthcare is about being proactive rather than reactive—making decisions today to protect your health tomorrow. It’s a revolutionary shift that focuses on keeping people healthy instead of simply treating illness when it arises. By adopting a preventative approach, you can identify potential health risks early,
make informed lifestyle changes, and prevent serious conditions from developing. The benefits are personal, but they’re also societal. A greater focus on prevention will help alleviate the current burden on the NHS, ensuring that fewer people end up needing critical care by catching issues before they escalate.
make informed lifestyle changes, and prevent serious conditions from developing. The benefits are personal, but they’re also societal. A greater focus on prevention will help alleviate the current burden on the NHS, ensuring that fewer people end up needing critical care by catching issues before they escalate.
examine me: At the Forefront of Preventative Healthcare
examine me: At the Forefront of Preventative Healthcare
Blood testing is one of the most effective ways to practice preventative healthcare. Why wait for symptoms to appear when you can catch warning signs early? Regular blood tests help monitor vital markers like cholesterol levels, hormone balances, nutrient deficiencies, and organ function, giving you insight into your overall health.
Blood testing is one of the most effective ways to practice preventative healthcare. Why wait for symptoms to appear when you can catch warning signs early? Regular blood tests help monitor vital markers like cholesterol levels, hormone balances, nutrient deficiencies, and organ function, giving you insight into your overall health.
When you know what’s happening inside your body, you have the power to make the right decisions for your well-being— whether it’s adjusting your diet, increasing your activity levels, or seeking further medical advice.
When you know what’s happening inside your body, you have the power to make the right decisions for your well-being— whether it’s adjusting your diet, increasing your activity levels, or seeking further medical advice.
Our Comprehensive Services
Our Comprehensive Services
examine me home tests
examine me home tests
At examine me, we offer a comprehensive range of services to help you monitor your health and achieve your best self. While our service offers precise venous blood testing, our provide affordable, convenient at-home kits. For a complete health overview tracks over 100 biomarkers, delivering personalised insights with bi-annual testing for £899. Additionally, tailors vitamins and supplements to address deficiencies or support health based on your test results.
examine me plus prescribe me
examine me plus prescribe me
At examine me, we offer a comprehensive range of services to help you monitor your health and achieve your best self. While our . service offers precise venous blood testing, our provide affordable, convenient at-home kits. For a complete health overview . tracks over 100 biomarkers, delivering personalised insights with bi-annual testing for £899. Additionally, tailors vitamins and supplements to address deficiencies or support health based on your test results.
IT’S ALL ABOUT
What Gets Tested?
The Bigger Picture: How Preventative Healthcare Helps Everyone
PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE
When more people choose preventative healthcare, it reduces the pressure on emergency services and hospitals, helping to free up resources for those who need them most. This shift can significantly unburden the NHS, which is facing ever-growing demand.
The Well-Man & Woman Profiles are comprehensive health assessments that provide a thorough overview of overall health, helping to detect potential issues early.
By getting regular blood tests with examine me, you are not only making the best decision for your personal health, but you’re also contributing to a healthier, more sustainable healthcare system. Imagine a future where hospitals are less crowded, doctors can focus more on urgent cases, and we, as a community, take charge of our own well-being.
At examine me, we believe in shifting healthcare from reactive to proactive. That's why we were founded with a mission to offer fast, precise, and convenient blood testing, providing the insights our customers need to prioritize their health and live long, fulfilling lives.
What Is Preventative Healthcare
Disrupting Healthcare: How examine me Leads the Change
Preventative healthcare is about being proactive rather than reactive—making decisions today to protect your health tomorrow. It’s a revolutionary shift that focuses on keeping people healthy instead of simply treating illness when it arises. By adopting a preventative approach, you can identify potential health risks early,
Preventative healthcare is about being proactive rather than reactive—making decisions today to protect your health tomorrow. It’s a revolutionary shift that focuses on keeping people healthy instead of simply treating illness when it arises. By adopting a preventative approach, you can identify potential health risks early, make informed lifestyle changes, and prevent serious conditions from developing. The benefits are personal, but they’re also societal. A greater focus on prevention will help alleviate the current burden on the NHS, ensuring that fewer people end up needing critical care by catching issues before they escalate.
make informed lifestyle changes, and prevent serious conditions from developing. The benefits are personal, but they’re also societal. A greater focus on prevention will help alleviate the current burden on the NHS, ensuring that fewer people end up needing critical care by catching issues before they escalate.
examine me: At the Forefront of Preventative Healthcare
Blood testing is one of the most effective ways to practice preventative healthcare. Why wait for symptoms to appear when you can catch warning signs early? Regular blood tests help monitor vital markers like cholesterol levels, hormone balances, nutrient deficiencies, and organ function, giving you insight into your overall health.
Convenience is at the core of what we do—with our network of mobile phlebotomists, you can have blood taken in the comfort of your own home, if you prefer. Our results are easy to understand and reviewed by Private GPs, offering expert insights without the long waiting times. By leveraging AI and staying at the forefront of technology, we are revolutionizing how people monitor and manage their health, making healthcare more accessible, personalized, and efficient.
When you know what’s happening inside your body, you have the power to make the right decisions for your well-being— whether it’s adjusting your diet, increasing your activity levels, or seeking further medical advice.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
Our Comprehensive Services
Are you ready to prioritise your health and embrace preventative healthcare? Join the movement with examine me. Visit our website to explore our range of services and find the right blood test for you. Together, let’s build a healthier future.
At examine me, we offer a comprehensive range of services to help you monitor your health and achieve your best self. While our service offers precise venous blood testing, our provide affordable, convenient at-home kits. For a complete health overview . tracks over 100 biomarkers, delivering personalised insights with bi-annual testing for £899. Additionally, tailors vitamins and supplements to address deficiencies or support health based on your test results. examine me home tests examine me plus prescribe me
BETTER, HEALTHIER LIVES
Breakthroughs in medical technology are bringing remarkable improvements in health outcomes every day. Here are some of the most exciting developments
THOUSANDS MORE TO GET ARTIFICIAL PANCREAS
Tens of thousands of children and eligible adults living with type 1 diabetes across England are set to receive an ‘artificial pancreas’ thanks to cost-effective deals secured by the NHS with suppliers of the technology. These groundbreaking devices continually monitor the individual’s glucose levels and then automatically adjust the amount of insulin given to them through a pump.
Local NHS systems have been identifying eligible people living with type 1 diabetes who could benefit from the Hybrid Closed Loop (HCL) system – sometimes called an artificial pancreas – since April 2024, but thanks to these new price agreements and additional national funding, more patients are set to benefit this year. NHS England is providing £14.1m to local health systems to provide the technology to patients for the first year.
There are currently around 270,000 people living in England with type 1 diabetes. NHS England is encouraging all prescribing trusts to review patients that are eligible for
HCL and already using other diabetes technology including continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and insulin pumps. The new cost-effective prices are available to all eligible NHS patients benefitting from this technology, meaning the NHS will make considerable savings.
The technology will mean some people living with type 1 diabetes will no longer need to inject themselves with insulin but rely on technology to receive this life saving medication. This can also help prevent life-threatening hypoglycaemic and hyperglycaemia attacks, which can lead to seizures, coma or even death for people living with type 1 diabetes.
The mass rollout of the artificial pancreas builds on a successful pilot of the technology by NHS England, which saw 835 adults and children with type 1 diabetes given devices to improve the management of their condition. The latest figures show that the NHS currently spends around £10.7 billion each year – around 6% of its entire budget – on identifying and treating diabetes.
NHS FAST-TRACKS CANCER TREATMENT
NHS patients with an aggressive form of blood cancer are to benefit from a life-extending daily tablet after the NHS became Europe’s first health service to routinely commission the treatment.
The new targeted treatment, quizartinib, can now be prescribed to newly-diagnosed patients with a specific type of leukaemia, boosting their chance of remission and long-term survival.
The treatment will be routinely commissioned and immediately available thanks to NHS England’s Cancer Drugs Fund, which fast-tracks new innovative cancer treatments into standard care.
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) aggressively interferes with blood production, leaving the body open to often fatal infections but, with effective treatment, patients can go into remission and in some cases be cured. Around 3,100 people are diagnosed with this type of cancer in the UK annually, with just over a quarter (27%) of those having the FLT3-ITD genetic mutation and therefore able to receive the new treatment.
The once-a-day tablet will be offered to adults as part of initial treatment alongside chemotherapy, and then for a further three years as a maintenance treatment to reduce the likelihood of cancer relapses.
If a patient’s condition has improved enough because of quizartinib and chemotherapy, eligible patients can then be offered stem cell transplants, which can increase the chance of being cured.
For patients not deemed suitable for stem cell transplants, the drug can still be life-extending.
Professor Peter Johnson, NHS National Clinical Director for Cancer, said: “It’s very good news that patients with this type of leukaemia now have an option that helps their chemotherapy to work better, boosting their chance of remission and long-term survival and offering them precious extra time with their families and friends.”
BRITSH HEART FOUNDATION OFFERS DEFIBRILLATORS
There are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests each year in the UK, but fewer than one in ten people survive them. Every minute without CPR and defibrillation after a cardiac arrest can reduce the chance of survival by up to 10 percent. Early CPR and defibrillation is vital to give someone the best chance of survival.
There are over 97,000 defibrillators registered on The Circuit: the national defibrillator network, but they are not evenly distributed. Data from The Circuit has shown that deprived communities need better support to help improve response times to an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The charity fears that gaps in the map of defibrillators are putting lives at risk.
Charity The British Heart Foundation has announced a programme to reduce these defibrillator gaps and improve survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.
Local areas awarded one of these defibrillators will be provided with a defibrillator and cabinet, and installation costs will be covered where required. Communities awarded a defibrillator can order future replacement parts free of charge when they expire or are used in a rescue.
The BHF will ensure that each defibrillator will also be registered on The Circuit: the national defibrillator network, so ambulance services can direct bystanders to the nearest available defibrillator in the event of a cardiac arrest.
Dr Charmaine Griffiths, BHF Chief Executive, said: “Every defibrillator has the power to save a life – that’s why I’m thrilled that we’re able to fully fund over 320 of these lifesaving devices for the areas that need it most.
“When someone has a cardiac arrest, every second counts – early access to a defibrillator is vital to give someone the best chance of survival.
“Although we have made progress, there are still too many communities that lack quick and easy access to a defibrillator. With the reopening of this fund, more communities will now have access to a defibrillator that can save lives.”
Find out more at www.bhf.org.uk
AI COULD HELP SPOT BROKEN BONES
Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to reduce the number of broken bones missed when doctors analyse X-rays, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). The health assessment body says research suggests the technology could speed up diagnosis, relieving pressure on clinicians and reducing the need for some follow-up appointments.
Four AI tools are set to be recommended for use in urgent care in England while more evidence is collected on the benefits of the technology. The AI systems will not be working alone - each image will still be reviewed by a healthcare professional. NICE says that broken bones are missed in 3-10% of cases, and in fact it is the most common diagnostic error in emergency departments.
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MOVE TO BAN SINGLE USE VAPES
The sale and use of single-use disposable vapes will be banned in England from June next year, the government has announced. Ministers say the move aims to protect children’s health and the environment. Similar bans are expected to be introduced by the governments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is already illegal to sell any vape to young people under the age of 18, but there are worries that disposable vapes, often sold in smaller, more colourful packaging than refillable ones, play a big role in the rise in young people vaping. A quarter of 11 to 15-year-olds have tried vaping and nearly 1 in 10 (9%) do it frequently, according to the Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use Among Young People in England report for 2023.
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Are You At Risk From Monkeypox?
The media got carried away with the idea of a monkeypox epidemic – but are you really at any risk?
On the 14th of August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the increasing number of monkeypox cases reported in the African Region, notably the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a
Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Mpox is an infection caused by the virus MPXV. There are two distinct types or clades of the virus: clade I and clade II. Historically, clade I mpox has been associated with
a higher risk of people with the infection developing severe illness or dying, compared to clade II. In May 2022, an outbreak of clade II mpox occurred globally. This outbreak predominantly affected gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.
Earlier this year the government confirmed that cases of monkeypox had been confirmed in the UK, and the media were quick to jump on the possibility of an international epidemic. But what is monkeypox and is it really as threatening to world health as something like the respiratory virus Covid-19?
Monkeypox, now usually referred to as mpox, is a rare infection most commonly found in parts of central and east Africa. The risk of catching it in the UK remains low. There have been a small number of cases of mpox reported in the UK since 2022, all of a milder type called Clade 2 mpox. There have not been any cases of the more serious Clade 1 mpox in the UK – so far this type of mpox has mainly been found in countries across central and east Africa.
Mpox can be passed on from person to person through any close physical contact with mpox blisters or scabs (including during sexual contact, kissing, cuddling or
holding hands); touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with mpox; and the coughs or sneezes of a person with mpox when they’re close to you.
In parts of central and east Africa, mpox can also be caught from infected rodents (such as rats, mice and squirrels) if you’re bitten, touch their fur, skin, blood, body fluids, spots, blisters or scabs, or you eat their meat and it has not been cooked thoroughly.
SYMPTOMS
If you get infected with mpox, it usually takes between 5 and 21 days for the first symptoms to appear. The first symptoms of mpox include a high temperature (fever), headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen glands, shivering, exhaustion and joint pain. A rash usually appears 1 to 5 days after the first symptoms. It can be on any part of the body, including the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, mouth, genitals and anus. You may also have anal
pain or bleeding from your bottom.
The rash is sometimes confused with chickenpox. It starts as raised spots, which turn into sores (ulcers) or small blisters filled with fluid. The blisters eventually form scabs which later fall off. The symptoms usually clear up in a few weeks. While you have symptoms, you can pass mpox on to other people.
You should call NHS 111 if you have a rash with blisters or sores (ulcers) and you’ve been to central or east Africa in the past three weeks; you have a rash with blisters or sores (ulcers) and you’ve been in close contact (including sexual contact) with someone who has symptoms of mpox and they’ve been to central or east Africa in the past three weeks; or you have any other symptoms of mpox and you’ve been to central or east Africa in the past three weeks and had close contact with someone who had symptoms of mpox. Tell the person you speak to about your recent travel history. »
Call a sexual health clinic if you have a rash with blisters or sores (ulcers) and have either had 1 or more new sexual partners in the past three weeks, or have had sex or sexual contact with someone who has symptoms of mpox but has not been to central or east Africa in the past three weeks.
Stay at home and avoid close contact with other people, including sharing towels or bedding, until you’ve been told what to do.
Call the clinic before visiting. Tell the person you speak to if you’ve had close contact with someone who has or might have mpox. Because the infection can be passed on through close contact, it’s important to isolate if you’re told to do so.
The good news is that mpox is usually mild and can get better within a few weeks without treatment, but if your symptoms are more severe and you become unwell, you will need treatment in hospital. The risk of needing treatment in hospital is higher for older people, young children, and people with a condition or who are taking a medicine that affects their immune system.
PRECAUTIONS
Although mpox is rare, there are things you can do to reduce your chance of getting it and passing it on.
Do
✔ Wash your hands with soap and water regularly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser
✔ Look out for any possible symptoms of mpox for 3 weeks after returning from central or east Africa
✔ Talk to sexual partners about their sexual health and any symptoms they may have
✔ Be aware of the symptoms of mpox if you’re sexually active, especially if you have new sexual partners
✔ Take a break from sex and intimate contact if you have symptoms of mpox until you’re seen by a doctor and are told you cannot pass it on
Don’t
✘ Share bedding or towels with people who may have mpox
✘ Have close contact (within 1 metre) with people who may have mpox
VACCINE
Mpox is caused by a similar virus to smallpox. The smallpox (MVA) vaccine should give a good level of protection against mpox. The NHS mpox vaccination programme has ended, but the vaccine is still offered to people who are most likely to be exposed to mpox, including:
❖ Healthcare workers caring for patients with confirmed or suspected mpox
❖ Men who are gay, bisexual or have sex with other men, and who have multiple partners, participate in group sex or attend sex-on-premises venues (staff at these venues are also eligible)
❖ People who’ve been in close contact with someone who has mpox – ideally, they should have 1 dose of the vaccine within 4 days of contact, but it can be given up to 14 days after
Healthcare workers will usually be offered two doses of the vaccine, while men who are gay, bisexual or have sex with other men will be offered two doses of the vaccine, the second from two to three months after the 1st dose. You may also be offered the vaccine alongside other appointments, such as for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
✘ Go near wild or stray animals, including animals that appear unwell or are dead, while travelling in central or east Africa
✘ Eat or touch meat from wild animals while travelling in central or east Africa
You can check the risks of a country you’re travelling to on the website at travelhealthpro.org.uk . ■
KEEP CALM AND CARRY A CONDOM
Sexual health problems are on the rise, and in some surprising age groups. We look at the cost of loving in the UK
Sexual health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, yet it is o en overlooked or stigmatized. In the UK, there has been increasing awareness around the importance of sexual health, but challenges remain, especially with rising cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among various demographic groups.
The emphasis on sexual health in the UK has undergone significant changes in recent years. The government and healthcare providers have placed greater emphasis on education, prevention, and accessible healthcare services. Yet, statistics indicate that STIs remain a significant concern. According to data from the O ice for National Statistics to the end of 2023:
There were 401,800 diagnoses of new STIs, an increase of 4.7% since 2022 (383,789)
Chlamydia diagnoses (all ages) remained
stable with 194,970 diagnoses in 2023 compared to 194,244 diagnoses in 2022
Gonorrhoea diagnoses increased 7.5% from 79,268 diagnoses in 2022 to 85,223 diagnoses in 2023
Infectious syphilis diagnoses increased 9.4% from 8,693 diagnoses in 2022 to 9,513 diagnoses in 2023
There was a larger proportional increase in syphilis diagnoses among heterosexual men and women (21.8%; from 1,608 in 2022 to 1,958 in 2023) than among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) (7.3%; from 6,081 in 2022 to 6,527 in 2023).
IMPACT
First episode genital warts diagnoses (all ages) remained stable with 26,133 diagnoses in 2023 compared to 26,068 diagnoses in 2022; amongst the largely vaccinated age group of 15- to 17-year-olds diagnoses remained low (104 in 2022, then 107 in 2023).
The impact of STIs remains greatest in young people aged 15 to 24 years, GBMSM and some minority ethnic groups. Among women aged 15 to 24 years screened through the National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP) 672,576 chlamydia tests were carried out in 2023, a
THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT
Young people are at the heart of many STI prevention efforts in the UK. Sexual health education has been implemented in schools across the country, with the goal of teaching children about safe sex, contraception, consent, and the importance of testing. However, despite these efforts, young people remain the most affected demographic when it comes to STIs.
The National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP), targeted at sexually active individuals under 25, offers free and confidential testing across England. Chlamydia is often asymptomatic, meaning many people may unknowingly carry and spread the infection. The NCSP aims to catch infections early and reduce the long-term health risks, such as infertility.
Technology plays an increasing role in the sexual health of young people. The rise of dating apps and social media has made it easier for young people to connect, but it has also led to an increase in casual sexual encounters, which can elevate the risk of STIs. On the other hand, digital tools such as telehealth services, home STI testing kits, and sexual health apps have improved access to testing and treatment, especially for young people who may feel uncomfortable visiting clinics.
One of the most surprising trends in recent years has been the rise of STIs in care homes. Traditionally, discussions about sexual health tend to focus on younger populations, but older adults in care homes are increasingly experiencing STIs. This shift is partly due to increased life expectancy, greater sexual activity in later years, and a lack of sexual health education targeted at the elderly.
2.1% decrease compared to 2022 (687,197). There were 64,670 chlamydia diagnoses in 2023, a decrease of 4.2% compared to 2022 (67,484).
Access to STI testing is crucial for preventing the spread of infections and ensuring timely treatment. In the UK, testing services are widely available and often free, whether through sexual health clinics, GP surgeries, or increasingly popular home testing kits. These services allow individuals to test for multiple STIs, including HIV, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and chlamydia, often without needing to visit a clinic.
While everyone should consider regular testing, specific groups particularly encouraged to get tested more frequently include sexually active individuals under 25, where the highest rates of chlamydia and gonorrhoea are reported; men who have sex with men (MSM), who are disproportionately affected by STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhoea, and HIV; and people with multiple sexual partners, for whom regular testing ensures that infections are identified early and treated before they can be passed on. »
OVER 65S
Research from the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) suggests that there has been a noticeable increase in STI diagnoses among people over the age of 65. The reasons for this rise include:
h Increased sexual activity: Many older adults continue to be sexually active but may not perceive themselves to be at risk for STIs, particularly if they are no longer concerned about contraception or pregnancy.
h Lack of sexual health education: Older adults often did not receive the same level of sexual health education as younger generations. As a result, they may be less informed about safe sex practices, such as condom use, to prevent STIs.
h Care home environments: In care homes, close living conditions and a lack of privacy can sometimes contribute to unsafe sexual practices. Additionally, care home staff may feel uncomfortable addressing sexual health needs with older residents.
Addressing the issue of STIs in care homes requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes training for care home staff, routine testing of older adults in
care homes who are sexually active, and education for older adults: just like younger generations, older adults need to be educated about the importance of condom use, regular testing, and communication with partners regarding sexual health.
The UK has made significant strides in improving sexual health outcomes, but there is still much work to be done. Adequate funding for sexual health services is crucial. Public Health England reports have raised concerns over cuts to local authority budgets, which have led to reduced access to sexual health clinics and services in some areas.
CONDOMS
The use of condoms among sexually active adolescents in European countries has significantly decreased since 2014, according to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report which showed that the percentage of adolescents who used a condom during their last sexual intercourse decreased from 70% to 61% for boys and from 63% to 57% for girls between 2014 and 2022. In addition to the risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), adolescents are also exposed to the risks for unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions. The report attributed the decline in condom use to inadequate sex education and sexual awareness, as well as limited access to contraceptives.
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Getting to the heart of the burn
Heartburn is common, affecting up to one in four UK adults.
Most of us probably recognise the symptoms of heartburn but how about what causes the condition?
It’s something which can be an occasional nuisance for some but a frequent, sometimes daily occurrence, known as GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), for others.
Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux and is often felt as a burning sensation in the chest.
Other symptoms can include bloating, feeling sick, a recurring cough or hiccups, bad breath and a hoarse voice.
The causes of heartburn
It can be caused or made worse by:
Certain food and drink including alcohol, tomatoes, citrus fruits, coffee, chocolate and spicy or fatty foods.
Smoking
Being overweight
Pregnancy
Stress and anxiety
An increase in certain hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen
Some medicines such as anti-inflammatory painkillers including ibuprofen
A bacterial infection in the stomach
Whatever the cause it can be unpleasant, uncomfortable and, particularly for frequent sufferers and it can affect day-to-day life.
How to ease heartburn and acid reflux.
The good news is – particularly if your symptoms are mild – there are things you can do to help prevent or reduce heartburn.
Read our tips below which include suggestions for making simple changes to your diet and eating patterns:
Tip 1 Trigger foods vary from person to person but some of the main culprits are rich foods, acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee and alcohol. If you’re unsure what your triggers are, you could try keep a diary to help you work out which food and drinks are causing your symptoms.
Tip 2 A healthy, balanced diet is recommended for all-round good health but it can also help your digestion and lower the risk of heartburn.
A gut-friendly diet includes:
• Fibre – around 30g a day – such as wholemeal bread, brown rice, oats, beans and fruit and veg.
• Plenty of fluids, especially water or maybe try herbal teas or milk.
• Probiotic yoghurts or probiotic supplements, which contain the ‘friendly bacteria’ naturally found the gut, are thought to have lots of digestive health benefits.
Tip 3 You’re more likely to get indigestion, and consequently heartburn, if you’re full so try to eat smaller meals more often rather than three large meals.
Tip 4 Try not to eat within three or four hours of going to bed.
Tip 5 Life is busy but try not to eat ‘on the run’ and eat more slowly. Eating meals at the table will help you sit upright and aid digestion.
Tip 6 Drinks between meals instead of drinking with meals can help and avoid bending, lifting or lying down straight after a meal as this may cause your symptoms.
Tip 7 If heartburn disrupts your sleep, try sleeping more upright by raising the head end of your bed by 10-20cm. This keeps your head and chest raised above your waist to help stop stomach acid from travelling up towards the throat.
If you’d like more advice on how to treat heartburn speak to your pharmacist. They can advise on antacid and alginate treatments to help ease the symptoms.
If lifestyle changes and these types of treatments aren’t helping and you have heartburn most days, speak to your GP who can advise on treatments such as omeprazole and rule out other causes. Omeprazole can be used for the short-term treatment of heartburn.
Omeprazole, the active ingredient in Pyrocalm Control 20mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets, belongs to a group of medicines called Proton pump Inhibitors (PPIs) and is a widely used treatment for indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux and works to help reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes.
Pyrocalm Control is the first branded 20mg omeprazole available over the counter that provides up to 24-hour confidence in heartburn control. Now also available in Peppermint Flavour, you’ll find packs of 7s and 14s at high street pharmacies and supermarkets.
It is suitable to take during pregnancy and while breastfeeding*.
For more information visit pyrocalmcontrol.co.uk
Pyrocalm Control 20mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets (omeprazole) are used in adults for the short-term treatment of reflux symptoms (e.g. heartburn, acid regurgitation, acid reflux). Always read the label.
*Medicines can affect the unborn baby. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine in pregnancy.
Why Your Guts Can Drive You Nuts
Gut health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, but what are the main gut complaints and treatments?
The gut is home to trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that make up the gut microbiome, which plays a central role in numerous bodily functions, from digestion and immune response to mental health and skin quality. Imbalances in gut health can lead to various conditions such as indigestion, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Moreover, poor gut health can affect the health of other parts of the body, including cartilage, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, skin, and hair. »
The various
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The gut microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms living in the digestive tract, especially in the large intestine. This microbiome plays an essential role in digestion, metabolism, nutrient absorption, and immune function, and produces beneficial vitamins such as B and K and short-chain fatty acids.
The balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut is critical. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to dysbiosis, which may cause various gastrointestinal problems, inflammation, and even affect other bodily systems. Maintaining a healthy microbiome is key to overall wellness.
‘Dyspepsia’ is not a diagnosis, but a term used to describe a complex of upper gastro-intestinal symptoms including upper abdominal pain or discomfort, heartburn, acid reflux, and nausea that have continued for four weeks or longer.
DIET AND GUT HEALTH
Diet plays a significant role in maintaining gut health. The food we eat directly affects the composition of the gut microbiome, either promoting beneficial bacteria or fostering harmful bacteria.
Fibre-Rich Foods
Dietary fibre, found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is essential
for gut health. Fibre helps promote bowel regularity, supports the growth of beneficial bacteria, and reduces inflammation. Soluble fibre, in particular, is fermented by gut bacteria to produce short-chain fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha. These can help maintain or restore the balance of the gut microbiome. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are types of fibre that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Foods rich in prebiotics include garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus. Both probiotics and prebiotics play a key role in maintaining gut health.
FODMAPs
FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are short-chain carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest for some people. They are found in a variety of foods, such as certain fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and wheat. For individuals with sensitive digestive systems, consuming FODMAPs can lead to bloating, gas, and discomfort. A low-FODMAP diet is often recommended for individuals with IBS to help manage symptoms.
MUSHROOM MOVES
Mushrooms are emerging as an effective supplement for promoting gut health. Certain mushroom species contain betaglucans and other polysaccharides that act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. Additionally, mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties and can support immune function, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut.
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Turkey Tail mushrooms are particularly known for their positive effects on gut health. These mushrooms help improve the gut microbiome’s balance, reduce inflammation, and support digestive function.
Many people experience gut-related conditions that range from mild discomfort to serious chronic diseases. Here are some of the most common gut issues and their causes, symptoms, and treatments.
Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. Acid reflux, which is the backflow of stomach acid, can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) when it becomes chronic. Causes include overeating, obesity, lying down after meals, and consuming certain trigger foods like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest or throat, sour taste in the mouth and difficulty swallowing. Treatment involves avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, elevating the head during sleep and using antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Omeprazole can be used for the shortterm treatment of heartburn.
Pyrocalm Control is the first branded 20mg omeprazole available over the counter, one tablet provides up to 24-hour confidence in heartburn control. Now also available in Peppermint Flavour, you’ll find packs of 7s and 14s at high street pharmacies and supermarkets. For more information visit pyrocalmcontrol.co.uk
Pyrocalm Control 20mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets (omeprazole) are used in adults for the short-term treatment of reflux symptoms. Always read the label.
Indigestion and Dyspepsia
Indigestion or dyspepsia refers to discomfort in the upper abdomen during or after eating. Causes include overeating, stress, or consuming fatty or spicy foods, and symptoms include bloating, nausea and abdominal pain. Treatments include eating smaller meals, avoiding fatty, spicy,
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or acidic foods, managing stress and taking antacids.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by chronic abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. IBS can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or hormonal changes and symptoms include abdominal cramping, diarrhoea or constipation, bloating and gas. Treatments include a low-FODMAP diet, fibre supplements, medications to manage diarrhoea or constipation, and stress management techniques.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is a group of chronic inflammatory conditions of the digestive tract, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Unlike IBS, which is non-inflammatory, IBD involves ongoing inflammation that can lead to serious complications, including intestinal damage and increased cancer risk. Symptoms are diarrhoea, often with blood, abdominal pain and cramping, weight loss and fatigue. Treatments include anti-
inflammatory medications, Immune system suppressors and surgery in severe cases.
GUT FOCUS
To maintain gut health, eat a balanced diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Focus on fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, along with fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, to support beneficial gut bacteria.
Stay hydrated to help regulate bowel movements, take regular physical exercise to improve gut motility, and practice stress management. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can help manage stress.
For individuals with chronic gut conditions like IBS or IBD, medications may be necessary to control symptoms. Additionally, taking a high-quality probiotic supplement can help restore the balance of the gut microbiome, particularly after illness, antibiotic use, or periods of stress.
A proactive approach to gut health through a balanced diet, hydration, and stress reduction can support not only your digestive system, but also your overall well-being. ■
What is Dental Negligence?
Dental negligence occurs when a dental professional fails to provide the standard of care expected, causing harm or injury to a patient. This can include incorrect treatments, misdiagnosis, or failing to diagnose issues such as oral infections or gum disease. Examples include:
Unnecessary or faulty dental procedures.
Inadequate follow-up care.
Failure to detect or treat decay, infections, or other issues.
How to Recognise the Signs of Poor Dental Treatment
It’s essential to know the warning signs that your dental care may not have been up to standard. These signs can include:
Persistent pain or discomfort after treatment.
Ill-fitting dental work, such as crowns or bridges.
Infections or complications after surgery or other procedures.
Aesthetic concerns, where the appearance of the treatment is unsatisfactory or worsens your condition.
Functional issues like difficulty chewing or speaking due to dental work. If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth seeking a second opinion and investigating further.
What to Do If You Think You Have Had Poor Dental Treatment
If you believe you’ve received negligent dental care, follow these steps:
Gather evidence – Keep detailed notes on your symptoms and treatment history, perhaps get a second opinion and an idea of what remedial treatment you need from a different dentist
Contact a specialist dental negligence solicitor – Professional legal advice is crucial in determining if you have a valid claim. The Dental Law Partnership (DLP) can help assess your case.
How Can the Dental Law Partnership Help You?
At The Dental Law Partnership (DLP), we specialize in representing clients who have experienced dental negligence. Here’s how we can assist:
Expert Assessment: We have an in-house team of qualified dentists who can quickly evaluate your case to determine if you’ve been a victim of negligence.
Legal Representation: With 25 years of experience in dental negligence claims, we have a thorough understanding of the complexities involved in dental law.
Compensation: We are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve, whether for additional treatment costs, loss of earnings, or the pain and suffering caused.
Who are the Dental Law Partnership?
The Dental Law Partnership is the UK’s leading law firm focused solely on dental negligence cases. Here’s why thousands trust us:
25 Years of Experience: We’ve been helping clients for over two decades.
Trusted by Thousands: Our track record speaks for itself, with countless satisfied clients.
Millions in Compensation: We’ve successfully secured millions of pounds in damages for our clients.
Expert Evaluation: Our team includes experienced dentists who can assess whether you have grounds for a claim quickly and accurately.
Examples of Clients We Have Helped
At DLP, we’ve supported many individuals in winning their dental negligence claims.
Annie: After a failed root canal procedure, Annie developed an infection that led to the loss of a tooth. DLP secured £35,000 in compensation for additional treatment and suffering.
Ben: Poorly fitted crowns caused ongoing pain and gum damage. We helped Ben receive £22,000 to cover the costs of corrective treatment and damages.
George: A misdiagnosed infection led to severe health complications. After our intervention, George was awarded £50,000 in compensation.
Contact Us Today
If you believe you’ve experienced dental negligence, don’t wait. Contact the Dental Law Partnership today for a for a free no obligation consultation:
Website: www.dentallaw.co.uk
Phone: Call us at 0800 085 3823 for immediate assistance.
Retired paramedic awarded £50k with the help of Dental Law after dental treatment took years off his life
Gerard “Gerry” White – compensation awarded £50,000
Brilliant service and great result too.
Our client, Gerard White was awarded a £50,000 settlement in February 2024 after a failed root canal treatment resulted in a heart infection. The procedure led to an ongoing abscess, which subsequently caused infective endocarditis, a potentially fatal inflammation of the lining of the heart valves, hospitalising him for 6 weeks. Doctors have informed him that his lifespan may be reduced by up to 5 years as a result.
After further investigation by Dental Law Partnership, it was revealed that the poorly performed root canal treatment was responsible for the life-threatening infection, and an avoidable tooth extraction.
Very professional, take all the details and make a decision based on the evidence. Easy to contact and speak with your case manager who take care to explain everything in detail and the actual process involved.
Legal cases are not straightforward and obviously not everything is easy, it takes time to get everything right and why it’s not quick, mine was taking place over the lockdowns so took a little longer than expected but it’s well worth the wait, the experts have examined the evidence and myself too and inspired confidence.
I would certainly recommend Dental Law Partnership to anyone who feels that a mistake has been made.
Any patients who believe they may have received negligent dental care should visit
Biting Back
When dentistry goes wrong, what are your rights? We look at some of the consequences of dental malpractice and negligence
Dental malpractice and negligence are serious issues that can result in significant harm to patients, both physically and emotionally. While most dental procedures are routine, mistakes can occur, leading to life-altering consequences, from chronic pain to the loss of teeth. It can happen either in the NHS or in private practice, and o en you may have to take legal measures to get compensation.
Dental malpractice or negligence occurs when a dental professional fails
to provide the standard of care expected within the profession, resulting in injury or harm to a patient. In legal terms, malpractice involves a breach of duty, causation, and damages. This means the dentist or dental professional failed to act appropriately, directly caused harm, and that the patient su ered as a result.
Malpractice can arise from both action or inaction, ranging from errors during a procedure to delayed treatment or failure to diagnose a condition. Specific scenarios leading to dental malpractice claims can include delays in treatment, incorrect
diagnoses, and procedural errors leading to long-term damage.
Delays in Treatment
Timely intervention is crucial for many dental conditions. A delay in treatment can result in the progression of diseases, infections, or damage that could have been avoided.
For example, a dentist who fails to treat a tooth infection promptly may allow the infection to spread, leading to severe complications like abscesses, bone loss, or systemic infections. »
Delays in diagnosing or treating periodontal disease (gum disease) can also result in tooth loss or irreversible damage to the gums and bones. In these cases, the failure to act quickly and appropriately can lead to long-term health problems for the patient.
Incorrect Diagnosis
An incorrect diagnosis is one of the most common forms of dental negligence. Misdiagnosing a condition or failing to diagnose it entirely can lead to inappropriate treatment plans or a lack of necessary intervention. For instance, if a dentist misdiagnoses periodontal disease as simple gingivitis, the patient might not receive the aggressive treatment needed to prevent further damage.
Similarly, a misdiagnosis of oral cancer as a benign lesion can delay crucial cancer treatment, reducing a patient’s chances of recovery.
Nerve Injury
Nerve injury is a serious and often irreversible form of dental negligence. Dental procedures, particularly those involving the lower jaw, carry the risk of damaging nerves. Procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions, dental implants, and root canals can all result in damage to the inferior alveolar nerve or lingual nerve, leading to permanent numbness, pain, or loss of function.
Restorative Dental Errors
Restorative dental procedures like fillings, crowns, and bridges are meant to repair damaged teeth. However, mistakes during these procedures can lead to further complications such as poor bite alignment, tooth fractures, or even infections.
Another common error in restorative dentistry is the over-preparation of a tooth, where too much natural tooth
structure is removed, weakening the tooth and leading to further damage.
Periodontal Disease Misdiagnosis
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other severe health issues, such as increased risk for heart disease and diabetes. A misdiagnosis of periodontal disease can delay necessary treatment, allowing the disease to advance.
Failure to recognize and treat early signs of gum disease, such as swelling, bleeding gums, or loose teeth, can lead to irreversible damage to the patient’s oral health. In severe cases, the loss of multiple teeth may occur.
Mistakes Leading to Tooth Loss
The loss of a tooth or multiple teeth due to dental negligence can have devastating
effects on a patient’s oral health, appearance, and overall quality of life. Tooth loss often requires extensive and expensive treatments to restore function and appearance, including implants, bridges, or dentures. Additionally, tooth loss can lead to other complications.
Failing to Gain Proper Patient Consent
Obtaining informed consent is a legal and ethical requirement in dental care. Dentists are required to explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a proposed treatment before proceeding. Failing to do so means the patient is not fully aware of potential outcomes or complications.
Cosmetic Dentistry Errors
With the rise in demand for cosmetic dentistry, such as veneers, teeth whitening, and smile makeovers, there has been an increase in cosmetic dental malpractice claims. Errors in cosmetic procedures can lead to undesirable aesthetic results, structural damage to teeth, and long-term complications such as bite misalignment and tooth sensitivity.
Failed Root Canal Treatments
Root canal treatments are performed to save infected or damaged teeth. A failed root canal occurs when the infection is
not entirely removed, or the tooth is not properly sealed. This can lead to persistent pain, further infection, the eventual loss of the tooth, and the need for additional procedures.
Financial Losses Due to Dental Malpractice
Dental treatments, especially corrective procedures following malpractice, can be extremely costly. Patients may face expenses related to corrective surgery, restorative dental work, implants, and even legal fees if they pursue a malpractice claim.
CLAIMING HELP
Patients who have suffered harm as a result of dental malpractice may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. Proving dental malpractice typically involves demonstrating that the dentist’s actions fell below the standard of care, that this breach directly caused harm, and that the patient suffered damages as a result.
Common forms of compensation in dental malpractice cases include reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Punitive damages may also be awarded to deter future malpractice by the dentist.
Patients who experience dental
Dental Law Partnership
Covering England and Wales, Dental Law Partnership is the leading specialist dental negligence solicitors in the UK, with 24+ years of professional legal representation exclusively for patients who have negligent treatment from their dentist. An in-house team of specialist dental advisors is dedicated to advising dental solicitors and legal executives on your claims. All cases are handled on a no-win, no-fee basis.
Joint Managing Directors David Corless Smith and Christopher Dean both worked as dentists before working at the Dental Law Partnership. Chris was also the founding member of the UK Dental Law and Ethics Forum and has also co-written the Dental Surgery chapter of the definitive practitioner work, Clinical Negligence (Fifth Edition). David helped to find the Dental Law Partnership, pioneering the use of conditional (no-win, no-fee) agreements within the dental legal sector.
Contact Dental Law Partnership on Freephone 0800 152 2038 or submit an enquiry form on the website at dentallaw.co.uk
malpractice should seek legal advice to explore their options for compensation. You have three years from the date you were aware of the negligence to make a claim. If you are under the age of 18, you have three years to make the claim from the point you become 18.
Who you sue will depend on where the treatment took place - NHS dental claims are made directly against the treating dentist or practice, not the NHS, so any compensation you receive does not come out of the NHS budget. Private dental claims are made directly against the dentist and/or their practice. ■
Smile Design
Dental care isn’t just about oral health, it can be about looking good too. So what are the basics of ‘smile design’?
Cosmetic dentistry is one of the fastest-growing branches of dentistry, focusing not just on oral health but on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of one’s smile. Unlike traditional dentistry, which centres on maintaining healthy teeth and gums, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the appearance, colour, shape, and alignment of teeth. The benefits extend beyond looks, as these treatments can significantly boost self-confidence and improve social interactions.
Several treatments fall under the cosmetic dentistry umbrella, each addressing different aspects of dental appearance:
Teeth Whitening: One of the simplest and most popular procedures, teeth whitening involves bleaching the teeth to
eliminate stains and discoloration. This quick procedure can transform a smile in a single visit, making it ideal for people looking to refresh their look without extensive treatment.
Veneers: Veneers are thin, custommade shells of porcelain or composite resin placed over the front of the teeth. They effectively correct minor issues like chips, gaps, or uneven alignment and are often used to achieve a flawless “Hollywood smile.”
Dental Bonding: For minor cracks, chips, or gaps, dental bonding is a cost-effective solution. A tooth-colored resin is applied to the affected area and hardened with a special light, bonding it to the tooth and restoring its natural appearance.
Orthodontics and Invisalign: Misaligned teeth can impact both appearance and
function. While traditional braces are effective, Invisalign, a clear aligner system, has become a popular alternative for straightening teeth discreetly.
Dental Implants: For those missing one or more teeth, dental implants provide a permanent solution. Titanium posts are surgically placed in the jawbone to act as tooth roots, and crowns are then attached, giving a natural look and restoring functionality.
BENEFITS
The primary advantage of cosmetic dentistry is an enhanced appearance, which can increase self-confidence and lead to improved personal and professional relationships. Additionally, some treatments, like dental bonding or implants, help improve dental function
by restoring damaged teeth. By investing in these procedures, patients often find that their improved smile motivates them to take better care of their oral hygiene, benefiting their long-term health.
A consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist is essential to determine the right treatments based on individual needs and goals. With advancements in technology, cosmetic dentistry has become more accessible, allowing people to achieve the smile they’ve always wanted.
Cosmetic dentistry is more than just an aesthetic investment; it’s a pathway to a healthier, more confident self – if our smile looks good, we feel good about ourselves. So taking care of our teeth isn’t just part of our physical health requirements, it can also be of benefit to our mental health.
Even the most healthy teeth won’t necessarily look perfect; cosmetic dentistry, often called ‘smile design’, aims to give us not just a healthy mouth full of teeth, but also a pleasing appearance - for example, one principle is that the lower edge of your upper teeth should follow your lower lip when you smile. You may also want
to adjust teeth to fill gaps, or alter the proportions of some teeth.
The concept of Smile Design covers a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments. Traditionally, one of the more popular was the porcelain veneer, a custom-made shell that fits over the front surfaces of your teeth to conceal cracks, chips, stains and other cosmetic imperfections. Porcelain veneers are still an option, and natural translucency, colour variations and surface texture can be added to veneers so that the final result looks fresh, natural and beautiful. But dental technology now offers many alternatives.
TREATMENTS
In some cases, dental imperfections have been caused by erosion of the bone or gums which support the teeth. In these cases, a combination of braces and veneers can be used to improve appearance, but a more radical treatment would be dental implants.
A dental implant is a metal post that replaces a missing tooth’s root and is used to support artificial teeth like crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants can last a
long time, perhaps 10-30 years, though the crown attached to them may wear over that time. The time it takes to get dental implants can vary depending on the individual patient and their treatment plan, but is generally around 3–15 months. The process involves multiple treatments with the implants left to heal between each visit.
Cheap dental implants may seem like an attractive option, but they can lead to significant health and financial issues over time. Low-cost implants often use inferior materials, which may cause infection, bone loss, or implant failure due to poor integration with the jawbone. Upfront savings may seem beneficial, but the longterm costs of correcting or replacing failed implants can far outweigh the initial price.
A cosmetic dentist will often use digital imaging to give you an idea of how your teeth can be treated to improve your smile – this way you can be more sure about what the end result will look like before committing to a course of treatment. The aim of cosmetic dentistry should always be to get the maximum benefit from the minimal level of treatment. ■
Cutting the Fat
If dieting doesn’t work, what are the medical options for managing weight loss? We examine the most effective methods
Weight management is a crucial aspect of overall health and wellness. With rising rates of obesity and its associated health complications, effective weight loss strategies are more important than ever.
Any initial attempts at controlling your weight should be through dieting; it’s a basic rule that you will gain weight if the
amount of calories you take in exceeds the amount you use through exercise. Conversely, if you can burn more calories than you take in, you will lose weight.
However, dieting is a practical and psychological challenge for many of us, and in some cases any weight lost can be put back on again if we can’t stick to the diet. So what are some more permanent methods of losing weight?
MANAGEMENT
Effective weight loss management requires a personalized approach. What works for one person may not work for another. Factors such as underlying health conditions, lifestyle, and personal preferences play a crucial role in determining the best weight loss strategy. Other than dieting, weight loss procedures can be surgical or non-surgical. Here are some of the options.
Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a collective term for several surgical procedures designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss. It is generally considered for those who are severely obese (with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher) or those who have a BMI of 35 or higher with obesityrelated health conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
Gastric Bypass
Sometimes known as Roux-en-Y, ‘Y-shaped’ surgery, involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the intestines to reduce the amount of food intake and calorie absorption. It is effective for substantial and long-term weight loss, but requires significant lifestyle changes and strict adherence to dietary guidelines.
Gastric Sleeve
Otherwise known as Sleeve Gastrectomy, this procedure removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a tube-like structure. It significantly limits food intake and reduces hunger hormones, leading to weight loss. It’s less invasive than gastric bypass but still involves a major commitment to dietary changes.
Gastric Band
Otherwise known as Adjustable Lap-Band, this involves placing a band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. It is adjustable and reversible but may result in slower weight loss compared to other surgeries.
Gastric Balloon
A balloon is inserted into the stomach through the oesophagus and inflated to reduce stomach capacity. It is a less invasive option that provides temporary support for weight loss but is typically used for a short duration. At the end of its use the ballon is removed through the oesophagus or passes naturally out of the system.
INJECTIONS
You may have read recently about the use of semaglutide in weight loss. Semaglutide
belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, released in the gut in response to eating, prompting the body to produce more insulin, which reduces blood sugar (glucose). For that reason, health care providers have used semaglutide for more than 15 years to treat Type 2 diabetes.
But GLP-1 in higher amounts also interacts with the parts of the brain that suppress your appetite and signal you to feel full. When used in conjunction with diet and exercise, it can cause significant weight loss - and a reduced risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease - in people who are obese or overweight.
Semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy) and Liraglutide (marketed as Saxenda) are weight loss medicines that work by making you feel fuller and less hungry. They’re taken as an injection, Liraglutide once a day, and semaglutide once a week. You should only take liraglutide or semaglutide if they’re prescribed for you by a specialist weight management service.
TABLETS
Weight loss tablets can be another effective option. They are typically used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
Orlistat is available on prescription from your doctor, or you can buy it at a lower
dose from a pharmacy. Products available directly from pharmacies are Alli and Orlos, which must be taken under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Orlistat works by preventing around a third of the fat from the food you eat being absorbed. The undigested fat is not absorbed into your body and is passed out with your poo. This will help you avoid gaining weight, and may help you to lose weight.
You’ll need to start eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly before beginning treatment with orlistat, and continue this during treatment and after you stop taking orlistat.
CHOICES
So how do you decide which of these weight loss methods is right for you?
Current Weight and BMI: Surgical options are typically reserved for those with a BMI over 35 with comorbidities (other existing medical conditions) or over 40 without comorbidities. Non-surgical methods may be suitable for those with a lower BMI or who are looking for complementary treatments.
Health Conditions: Individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or other obesityrelated conditions may benefit from more invasive treatments that offer substantial weight loss and health improvements.
Lifestyle and Commitment: Surgical options o en require significant lifestyle changes and long-term adherence to dietary guidelines. Non-surgical methods may o er more flexibility but still require commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
Previous Attempts: Those who have tried and failed with traditional weight loss methods may find that medical or surgical interventions o er better results.
AFTERCARE
Regardless of the chosen weight loss method, a ercare support is critical for long-term success. A ercare involves regular follow-up with healthcare providers, nutritional counselling, and psychological support, for these reasons:
Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular check-ups help monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans. This is especially important for surgical options, where adjustments may be needed.
Nutritional Guidance: Proper nutrition is crucial post-treatment. Dietitians can provide tailored advice to ensure patients meet their nutritional needs while achieving weight loss goals.
Mental Health Support: Weight loss can be a significant emotional journey. Psychological support helps individuals cope with changes in body image and lifestyle and addresses any underlying issues related to eating habits.
It’s also worth remembering that the cost of weight loss treatments can be a significant barrier for many people. Looking into available payment plans and financing options can make these treatments more accessible. Many healthcare providers o er financing options or payment plans that allow patients to pay for treatments over time. These can be particularly useful for elective procedures not covered by insurance.
Some providers o er discount programs or sliding scale fees based on income, and some insurance plans cover weight loss treatments, particularly if they are deemed medically necessary.
TRANSFORM
Considering your options for weight loss? Transform Healthcare (www.transforminglives.co.uk) o ers a range of personalised options to suit individual needs, from non-surgical treatments to advanced surgical procedures. Their holistic approach ensures continuous support, with tailored plans that include everything from preand post-op care at home to nutritional guidance and mental health resources. Whether exploring options like Gastric Balloon or Gastric Sleeve, patients can feel confident in the comprehensive care provided. Transform Healthcare’s commitment to lasting results and patient well-being sets them apart as a trusted partner in achieving a healthier lifestyle. ■
Plan for a Scan
Is it worth arranging for an MRI scan privately? Early diagnosis can certainly be a benefit in many conditions
It’s fact that despite the hard work of the NHS, in certain areas, long waiting lists and limited facilities make it worth considering paying for private medical services. Nowhere is this more the case than with technical facilities such as MRI scanning, where waiting lists are long, yet early examination and diagnosis can make all the difference to a medical outcome.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans are a safe and convenient way to diagnose a range of conditions. From aches and pains to lumps and bumps, MRI can detect tumours, assess injuries, and provide preventative screenings such as full-body and prostate scans.
Scan.com is an online booking platform making it easy to find a private MRI scan near you. You can choose where and when to have your scan, with no
referral needed. The price includes expert clinician advice, helping you get answers sooner and start treatment faster.
Taking anything between 10 and 90 minutes, an MRI scan is a painless and safe procedure. If you have claustrophobia, you may find it uncomfortable, but open MRI scanners are available to alleviate this. Sometimes your scan may require the use of a contrast agent such as Gadolinium or Iodine, injected or ingested to improve the quality and definition of MRI images.
So in what circumstances might you want to go private for an MRI scan? If you’ve noticed new or worsening symptoms, or have unanswered questions about your health, an MRI can be a great option. Injuries, diseases, and tumours of the soft tissues, spine, and internal organs, such as the brain and digestive system, are among
the most common conditions that MRI scans can help to diagnose.
HOW IT WORKS
MRI works using powerful magnets which produce a strong magnetic field that forces protons in the body to align with that field.
When a radiofrequency current is then pulsed through the patient, the protons are stimulated, and spin out of equilibrium, straining against the pull of the magnetic field. As the radio waves are turned off, the atoms return to their original position and send back radio signals which are used to create an internal image. The typical loud noise of an MRI scanner is caused by its magnetic coils vibrating, and is why patients usually wear earplugs. ■
Prostate of the Nation
Around one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer –but advanced treatments are coming on to tackle the condition
The prostate is a small, walnutsized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. Its primary function is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. As men age, prostate health can become a significant concern, with many experiencing common issues that can impact their quality of life.
Prostate problems are most common in older men, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 50. While not all prostate issues are life-threatening, they can cause discomfort and disruption to daily life. The most common prostate complaints include:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) BPH refers to the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. As the prostate
enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra, making it difficult for urine to pass. BPH affects about 50% of men aged 50 to 60 and up to 90% of men over 80. Symptoms of BPH include frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia), weak urine stream or difficulty starting urination, and incomplete bladder emptying.
Although BPH is not cancerous, it can lead to complications like urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, and kidney damage if left untreated.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate, which can be caused by bacterial infection or other factors. It can occur at any age but is more common in men under 50. Prostatitis can present as acute (sudden onset) or chronic (long-term). Symptoms
of prostatitis include pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, lower back, or genitals, painful urination or ejaculation, and difficulty urinating.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, particularly in older individuals. It develops when cells in the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably. Prostate cancer is often slow-growing and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. However, in more advanced cases, symptoms may include difficulty urinating or a weak stream, blood in the urine or semen, erectile dysfunction and pain in the bones or lower back. Early detection is key to successful treatment, which is why regular screening, especially after age 50, is crucial for prostate cancer.
PROSTATE HEALTH
Maintaining good prostate health can help reduce the risk of developing problems like BPH, prostatitis, and even prostate cancer. While some risk factors, such as age and genetics, cannot be controlled, lifestyle choices can play a significant role in promoting prostate health. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help protect prostate health. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of prostate problems, and staying well-hydrated is essential for urinary and prostate health.
Regular prostate exams and screenings are essential, especially as men age. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) are common screening methods that can detect prostate cancer early.
TREATMENT
Treatments for prostate conditions can range from lifestyle modifications and medications to surgical interventions.
Several medications can help manage symptoms of BPH; Alpha-blockers relax the muscles around the prostate and bladder
neck, making it easier to urinate.
5-alpha-reductase inhibitors shrink the prostate by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that causes prostate growth.
For bacterial prostatitis, antibiotics are the primary treatment.
In cases of severe BPH that do not respond to medication, surgical options may be necessary. These include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), a common procedure in which part of the prostate is removed to relieve urinary symptoms; and prostatic urethral lift (PUL), a minimally invasive procedure that lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, reducing blockage.
Prostate cancer treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the individual’s overall health. Common treatment options include:
h Active surveillance: For slow-growing cancers, doctors may recommend monitoring the condition closely without immediate intervention.
h Surgery: Radical prostatectomy involves the removal of the entire prostate gland and is often used in early-stage cancer.
h Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are
used to target and kill cancer cells, either externally or by placing radioactive seeds inside the prostate.
h Hormone therapy: Also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), this treatment reduces levels of testosterone, which fuels the growth of prostate cancer.
h Chemotherapy and immunotherapy may be used for more advanced or aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
Prostate health continues to be an area of active medical research - for instance Water Vapour Therapy is a minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate gland.
Water Vapour Therapy utilises the natural energy of steam to target the excess prostate tissue that causes the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. The steam is directly injected into the prostate tissue, leading to cell death. The steam is rapidly dispersed through the space between the tissue cells within the prostate, and as it cools it condenses immediately on contact with the tissue and the stored energy is released, leading to cell death, which ultimately reduces the volume of prostate tissue. ■
An innovative treatment option for BPH
DiscoverRezūm™: An innovative treatment option for BPH
DiscoverRezūm™: An innovative treatment option for BPH
DiscoverRezūm™: An innovative treatment option for BPH
DiscoverRezūm™: An innovative treatment option for BPH
New treatment options for benignprostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are being hailed as minimally invasive, but what does that entail? And how patient-centric and durable are these solutions in reality?
New treatment options for benignprostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are being hailed as minimally invasive, but what does that entail? And how patient-centric and durable are these solutions in reality?
New treatment options for benignprostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are being hailed as minimally invasive, but what does that entail? And how patient-centric and durable are these solutions in reality?
New treatment options for benignprostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are being hailed as minimally invasive, but what does that entail? And how patient-centric and durable are these solutions in reality?
BPH Treatment Options
New treatment options for benignprostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are being hailed as minimally invasive, but what does that entail? And how patient-centric and durable are these solutions in reality?
BPH Treatment Options
BPH Treatment Options
BPH Treatment Options
BPH Treatment Options
There are different treatment options in the UK, ranging from medication to surgery. Nonetheless, less invasive and efficient treatments have been approved totreat BPH. Currently, surgical treatments like the TURP (Transurethral resection of the prostate) procedure are often considered as arecognised option for BPH. However, sucha treatment does carry risks, including erectiledysfunction and retrograde ejaculation (when semen enters the bladder instead ofemerging through the penisduring orgasm)
There are different treatment options in the UK, ranging from medication to surgery Nonetheless, less invasive and efficient treatments have been approved totreat BPH. Currently, surgical treatments like the TURP (Transurethral resection of the prostate) procedure are often considered as arecognised option for BPH. However, sucha treatment does carry risks, including erectiledysfunction and retrograde ejaculation (when semen enters the bladder instead ofemerging through the penisduring orgasm).
There are different treatment options in the UK, ranging from medication to surgery. Nonetheless, less invasive and efficient treatments have been approved totreat BPH Currently, surgical treatments like the TURP (Transurethral resection of the prostate) procedure are often considered BPH However, sucha including erectiledysfunction (when semen enters the through the penisduring
There are different treatment options in the UK, ranging from medication to surgery. Nonetheless, less invasive and efficient treatments have been approved totreat BPH. Currently, surgical treatments like the TURP (Transurethral resection of the prostate) procedure are often considered as arecognised option for BPH. However, sucha treatment does carry risks, including erectiledysfunction and retrograde ejaculation (when semen enters the bladder instead ofemerging through the penisduring orgasm)
There are different treatment options in the UK, ranging from medication to surgery. Nonetheless, less invasive and efficient treatments have been approved totreat BPH. Currently, surgical treatments like the TURP (Transurethral resection of the prostate) procedure are often considered as arecognised option for BPH. However, sucha treatment does carry risks, including erectiledysfunction and retrograde ejaculation (when semen enters the bladder instead ofemerging through the penisduring orgasm).
TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure isn’t for everyone, especially those who still have an active sex life.”
TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure isn’t for everyone, especially those who still have an active sex life.”
TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure isn’t for everyone, especially those who still have an active sex life.”
TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure isn’t for everyone, especially those who still have an active sex life.”
TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure isn’t for everyone, especially those who still have an active sex life.”
Professor Hindley first carried out the procedure in March 2017, and itis now available in manymore centres as more surgeons are trained. “With a treatment time of roughly15–20 minutes,my hope is thatthis procedurecould transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducingmedication (when semen enters the bladder instead of emerging throughthe penis during orgasm).
Professor Hindley first carried out the procedure in March 2017, and itis now available in manymore centres as more surgeons are trained. “With a treatment time of roughly15–20 minutes,my hope is thatthis procedurecould transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducingmedication (when semen enters the bladder instead of emerging throughthe penis during orgasm)
Professor Hindley first carried out the procedure in March 2017, and itis now available in manymore centres as more surgeons are trained “With a treatment time of roughly15–20 minutes,my hope is thatthis procedurecould transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducingmedication (when semen the bladder instead emerging throughthe during orgasm)
Professor Hindley first carried out the procedure in March 2017, and itis now available in manymore centres as more surgeons are trained. “With a treatment time of roughly15–20 minutes,my hope is thatthis procedurecould transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducingmedication (when semen enters the bladder instead of emerging throughthe penis during orgasm).
The Rezūm Procedure
The Rezūm Procedure
Professor Hindley first carried out the procedure in March 2017, and itis now available in manymore centres as more surgeons are trained. “With a treatment time of roughly15–20 minutes,my hope is thatthis procedurecould transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducingmedication (when semen enters the bladder instead of emerging throughthe penis during orgasm).
The Rezūm Procedure
The Rezūm Procedure
The Rezūm Procedure
An alternative medication and treatments (that Rezūm procedure water steam to as arecognised option for does carry risks, and retrograde ejaculation bladder instead ofemerging penisduringenters of penis . solution to surgical can both uses shrink the
With a treatment time of roughly 15–20 minutes, my hope is that this procedure could transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducing medication, as there are fewer side effects.
reducingmedication, as there are fewer side effects.”
reducingmedication, as there are fewer side effects.”
With a treatment time of roughly 15–20 minutes, my hope is that this procedure could transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducing medication, as there are fewer side effects.
With a treatment time of roughly 15–20 minutes, my hope is that this procedure could transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducing medication, as there are fewer side effects.
reducingmedication, as there are fewer side effects.”
reducingmedication, as there are fewer side effects.”
reducingmedication, as there are fewer side effects.”
Results and Patient Satisfaction
Results and Patient Satisfaction
Results and Patient Satisfaction
An alternative solution to medication and surgical treatments (that can both Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the
Richard Hindley
An alternative solution to medication and surgical treatments (that can both Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the
An alternative solution to medication and surgical treatments (that can both Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the
An alternative solution to medication and surgical treatments (that can both Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the
With a treatment time of roughly 15–20 minutes, my hope is that this procedure could transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducing medication, as there are fewer side effects.
With a treatment time of roughly 15–20 minutes, my hope is that this procedure could transform NHS waiting lists as well as reducing medication, as there are fewer side effects.
impact sexual function)1 is the Rezūm procedure. The Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the enlarged prostate over time. The therapy is done in approximately 10 minutes;consequently, patients can leave the hospital the same day.
impact sexual function)1 is the Rezūm procedure. The Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the enlarged prostate over time The therapy is done in approximately 10 minutes;consequently, patients can leave the hospital the same day
Richard Hindley
Richard Hindley
Richard Hindley
Richard Hindley
Results and Patient Satisfaction
Results and Patient Satisfaction
impact sexual function)1 is the Rezūm procedure. The Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the enlarged prostate over time. The therapy is done in approximately 10 minutes;consequently, patients can leave the hospital the same day
impact sexual function)1 is the Rezūm procedure. The Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the enlarged prostate over time The therapy is done in approximately 10 minutes;consequently, patients can leave the hospital the same day
impact sexual function)1 is the Rezūm procedure. The Rezūm procedure uses water steam to shrink the enlarged prostate over time The therapy is done in approximately 10 minutes;consequently, patients can leave the hospital the same day.
Since August 2018, Professor Hindley has begun training surgeons across the UK and Europe in delivering thetreatment
Since August 2018, Professor Hindley has begun training surgeons across the UK and Europe in delivering thetreatment
Since August 2018, Professor Hindley has begun training surgeons across the UK and Europe in delivering thetreatment.
Since August 2018, Professor Hindley has begun training surgeons across the UK and Europe in delivering thetreatment
Since August 2018, Professor Hindley has begun training surgeons across the UK and Europe in delivering thetreatment
He explains: “When I firstheard about Rezūm, and with my previous experience of similar procedures, it seemed like it had great potential and was complimentary tothe other minimally invasive options.
He explains: “When I firstheard about Rezūm, and with my previous experience of similar procedures, it seemed like it had great potential and was complimentary tothe other minimally invasive options.
He explains: “When I firstheard about Rezūm, and with my previous experience of similar procedures, it seemed like it had great potential and was complimentary tothe other minimally invasive options
He explains: “When I firstheard about Rezūm, and with my previous experience of similar procedures, it seemed like it had great potential and was complimentary tothe other minimally invasive options.
He explains: “When I firstheard about Rezūm, and with my previous experience of similar procedures, it seemed like it had great potential and was complimentary tothe other minimally invasive options.
Here in the UK, we have traditionally been very loyal to TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure
Here in the UK, we have traditionally been very loyal to TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure
Here in the UK, we have traditionally been very loyal to TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure
Here in the UK, we have traditionally been very loyal to TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure
Here in the UK, we have traditionally been very loyal to TURP because itis a very good treatment; however, we are now developing a portfolio of minimally invasive treatments as we understand thatthe TURP procedure
While medication and surgery (TURP usually) are the common options for BPH sufferers1, Prof Hindley hopes that map. Hindley hopes that minimally invasive treatments such as Rezūm could fill a gap.
While medication and surgery (TURP usually) are the common options for BPH sufferers1, Prof Hindley hopes that map. Hindley hopes that minimally invasive treatments such as Rezūm could fill a gap.
While medication and surgery (TURP usually) are the common options for BPH sufferers1, Prof Hindley hopes that map. Hindley hopes that minimally invasive treatments such as Rezūm could fill a gap
While medication and surgery (TURP usually) are the common options for BPH sufferers1, Prof Hindley hopes that map. Hindley hopes that minimally invasive treatments such as Rezūm could fill a gap.
While medication and surgery (TURP usually) are the common options for BPH sufferers1, Prof Hindley hopes that map. Hindley hopes that minimally invasive treatments such as Rezūm could fill a gap.
Clinical datashows that Rezūm reduced prostatesize and provided long-term durability out to 5 years.2 Moreover, significant improvementsin BPH symptoms were experienced through 5 yearsof follow-up with maintained sexual function.2
Clinical datashows that Rezūm reduced prostatesize and provided long-term durability out to 5 years.2 Moreover, significant improvementsin BPH symptoms were experienced through 5 yearsof follow-up with maintained sexual function.2
Clinical datashows that Rezūm reduced prostatesize and provided long-term durability out to 5 years 2 Moreover, significant improvementsin BPH symptoms were experienced through 5 yearsof follow-up with maintained sexual function.2
Clinical datashows that Rezūm reduced prostatesize and provided long-term durability out to 5 years.2 Moreover, significant improvementsin BPH symptoms were experienced through 5 yearsof follow-up with maintained sexual function.2
Clinical datashows that Rezūm reduced prostatesize and provided long-term durability out to 5 years.2 Moreover, significant improvementsin BPH symptoms were experienced through 5 yearsof follow-up with maintained sexual function.2
Most individuals can experience symptom relief within three months after the procedure, and patients can return to regular activities within a few days 3,4 It isimportant to remember that patient responses vary depending on the individual.
Most individuals can experience symptom relief within three months after the procedure, and patients can return to regular activities within a few days 3,4 It isimportant to remember that patient responses vary depending on the individual
Most individuals can experience symptom relief within three months after the procedure, and patients can return to regular activities within a few days.3,4 It isimportant to remember that patient responses vary depending on the individual.
Most individuals can experience symptom relief within three months after the procedure, and patients can return to regular activities within a few days 3,4 It isimportant to remember that patient responses vary depending on the individual.
Most individuals can experience symptom relief within three months after the procedure, and patients can return to regular activities within a few days 3,4 It isimportant to remember that patient responses vary depending on the individual.
The patient feedback on is Rezūm very positive. In a single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto
The patient feedback on is Rezūm very positive. In a single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied Rezūm therapyto
The patient feedback on is Rezūm very positive In a single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of % were satisfied therapyto
The patient feedback on is Rezūm very positive. In a single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto a friend. 5
The patient feedback on is Rezūm very positive. In a single centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of % satisfied therapyto
patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm a friend.
Space for Space for Advert
Richard Hindley Amr Emara
Richard Hindley Amr Emara
Richard Hindley Amr Emara
Richard Hindley Amr Emara
Richard Hindley Amr Emara
Urology Clinical Lead at North Hampshire Hospital
Urology Clinical Lead at North Hampshire Hospital
Urology Clinical Lead at North Hampshire Hospital
Urology Clinical Lead at
North Hampshire Hospital
Urology Clinical Lead at North Hampshire Hospital
Consultant
Consultant Urologist at Hampshire Hospital Foundation Trust
Consultant Urologist at Hampshire Hospital Foundation Trust
Consultant Urologist at Hampshire Hospital Foundation Trust
Urologist at Hampshire Hospital Foundation Trust
Consultant Urologist at Hampshire Hospital Foundation Trust
single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto a friend. 5
single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto a friend 5
single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto a friend. 5
single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto a friend. 5
single-centre study with 255 patients over four years, 91% of patients were satisfied with outcomes, 94% were satisfied overall, and 97% would recommend the Rezūm therapyto a friend 5
“The feedback we get is very positive”says Mr Hindley “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive”says Mr Hindley “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
period,but the feedback we havehad is that men much prefer a dayprocedure with symptoms improvement that develop over a period of time, rather than a surgicalprocedure with an immediate outcome that carries more risk.”
period,but the feedback we havehad is that men would much prefer a dayprocedure with symptoms improvement that develop over a period of time, rather than a surgicalprocedure with an immediate outcome that carries more risk.”
period,but the feedback we havehad is that men would much prefer a dayprocedure with symptoms improvement that develop over a period of time, rather than a surgicalprocedure with an immediate outcome that carries more risk.”
period,but the feedback we havehad is that men would much prefer a dayprocedure with symptoms improvement that develop over a period of time, rather than a surgicalprocedure with an immediate outcome that carries more risk.”
period,but the feedback we havehad is that men would much prefer a dayprocedure with symptoms improvement that develop over a period of time, rather than a surgicalprocedure with an immediate outcome that carries more risk.”
“The feedback we get is very positive”says Mr Hindley. “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive”says Mr Hindley “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive”says Mr Hindley “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive” says Mr Hindley. “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive” says Mr Hindley “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive” says Mr Hindley. “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive” says Mr Hindley. “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
“The feedback we get is very positive” says Mr Hindley “I get men telling me thatthey have been waiting years for a treatment like this.”
The technique is now rolling out across
The technique is now rolling out across the NHS Mr Amr Emara another
The technique is now rolling out across the NHS Mr Amr Emara another
The technique is now rolling out across the NHS Mr Amr Emara another
The technique is now rolling out across the NHS Mr Amr Emara another
Most common side effects are short-term, catheter related discomfort, and blood in urine in the early postoperative period “We havehadnonew cases oferection problems or urinary leakage afterRezūm in all the cases have treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of sidewith current medication,” explainsProfessor particularly the men invasive We but coststudy be for says
Most common side effects are short-term, catheter related discomfort, and blood in urine in the early postoperative period. “We havehadnonew cases oferection problems or urinary leakage afterRezūm in all the cases treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of sidewith current medication,” explainsProfessor particularly the men invasive We but coststudy be for says
operative period. “We havehadno new cases of erection problems or urinary leakage after Rezūm in all the cases we have treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of side-effects than with currentmedication,” explains Professor Hindley.
operative period. “We havehadno new cases of erection problems or urinary leakage after Rezūm in all the cases we have treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of side-effects than with currentmedication,” explains Professor Hindley.
operative period “We havehadno new cases of erection problems or urinary leakage after Rezūm in all the cases we have treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of side-effects than with currentmedication,” explains
Most common side effects are short-term, catheter related discomfort, and blood in urine in the early postoperative period. “We havehadnonew cases oferection urinary leakage afterRezūm in all the cases treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of sidewith current medication,” explainsProfessor particularly the men invasive We but coststudy be for says
Most common side effects are short-term, catheter related discomfort, and blood in urine in the early postoperative period. “We havehadnonew cases oferection urinary leakage afterRezūm in all the cases treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of sidewith current medication,” explainsProfessor particularly the men invasive We but coststudy be for says
Most common side effects are short-term, catheter related discomfort, and blood in urine in the early postoperative period “We havehadnonew cases oferection urinary leakage afterRezūm in all the cases treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of sidewith current medication,” explainsProfessor particularly the men invasive We but coststudy be for says
operative period. “We havehadno new cases of erection problems or urinary leakage after Rezūm in all the cases we have treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of side-effects than with currentmedication,” explains Professor Hindley.
operative period. “We havehadno new cases of erection problems or urinary leakage after Rezūm in all the cases we have treated so far, and this is a betterprofile of side-effects than with currentmedication,” explains Professor Hindley.
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Frustrated by urinary incontinence or discomfort? Struggling with weak pelvic floor muscles?
It’s time to say goodbye to these common women’s health issues, Transform Your Wellness Journey With InMode’s EmpowerRF. EmpowerRF is a highly effective, non-invasive technology designed for women’s wellness. It offers a versatile, multi-functional solution that addresses a wide range of conditions that woman have been taught are normal conditions and
Some of the Conditions
Empower RF can treat:
Vaginal dryness or itchiness
Excess discharge
Burning or urgency with urination
Incontinence
Discomfort or light bleeding with intercourse
as result are suffering in silence. By utilizing multiple applicators, EmpowerRF delivers personalized treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs. These procedures can be conveniently performed in a physician’s office, often taking as little as 30 minutes. One treatment 30-minute treatment with Empower RF is the same as doing 20,000 Kegel exercises!
Customer Testimonial
“After
Childbirth I felt disconnected from my body, Empower RF has helped me rediscover my intimacy and I feel myself again”
Stemming the Flood
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition affecting millions of women worldwide – but modern technology offers solutions
Stress incontinence occurs when physical activities or sudden movements - such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising - cause an involuntary leakage of urine. While it can affect women of all ages, it is most common in those who have given birth, are approaching menopause, or have other factors that weaken the pelvic floor muscles.
SUI results from weakened or damaged muscles and tissues in the pelvic floor, which support the bladder and urethra. When these muscles are unable to properly contract or close the urethra, small amounts of urine can leak during activities
that increase abdominal pressure. Several factors can contribute to the development of stress incontinence:
1. Pregnancy and Childbirth
One of the leading causes of SUI is pregnancy and vaginal delivery.
The weight of the growing uterus can place stress on the pelvic floor, and the physical strain of labour can stretch and damage the muscles and tissues.
Women who deliver multiple children or experience long, difficult labours are more at risk. Episiotomies or the use of forceps during childbirth can increase the chances of pelvic floor trauma.
2. Aging and Menopause
As women age, the pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken, and the production of oestrogen, a hormone that helps maintain the strength and elasticity of the muscles in the pelvic area, declines. Menopause accelerates this process, as the reduction in oestrogen can cause further thinning and weakening of the urethral tissues.
3. Obesity
Excess body weight can place additional pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, increasing the risk of stress urinary incontinence. »
4. Chronic Coughing
Chronic conditions that cause frequent coughing, such as asthma or smoking, can put repeated stress on the pelvic floor, weakening the muscles and leading to incontinence.
5. Previous Pelvic Surgeries
Surgeries such as hysterectomy or procedures to treat pelvic organ prolapse can sometimes damage the muscles and nerves that control bladder function.
MANAGING
Treatments for SUI range from lifestyle changes and exercises to medical interventions.
1. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegel Exercises)
Pelvic floor muscle exercises, commonly known as Kegels, are often the first-line treatment for stress incontinence. These exercises involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the muscles that control the bladder.
2. Lifestyle Modifications
For some women, simple lifestyle changes can help alleviate stress incontinence. This may include losing weight, exercising, stopping smoking to reduce chronic coughing, and avoiding foods and
beverages that irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
3. Pessary Devices
A vaginal pessary is a small, removable device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs and reduce urine leakage. Pessaries are a non-surgical option that can be particularly effective for women with mild to moderate stress incontinence.
4. Medications
Some women may benefit from medications that strengthen the muscles of the bladder neck and urethra. In cases where menopause is a contributing factor, topical oestrogen therapy may help improve the elasticity and strength of the urethral tissues.
5. Surgical Interventions
For women with more severe cases of stress incontinence, surgical procedures may be considered. The most common surgeries include urethral sling procedures, which use a small piece of synthetic mesh or the patient’s own tissue to provide support for the urethra.
NEUROMODULATION
One advanced non-surgical treatment is neuromodulation, using radiofrequency (RF)
energy and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to strengthen and rejuvenate the pelvic floor. The system can also be used in applications such as sub-necrotic heating and muscle stimulation to treat a broad range of conditions, such as blood circulation, and pain relief, as well as stress, urge, and mixed urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic floor weakness. The benefits of neuromodulation systems such as EmpowerRF are that they are non-invasive, not requiring anaesthesia or incisions, making it a safer option for many women.
Stress incontinence is a common but manageable condition that can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life. Understanding the causes, such as weakened pelvic floor muscles due to childbirth, aging, or obesity, can help guide treatment options, and while pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle modifications, and surgical interventions remain key strategies, new technologies offer a promising noninvasive solution. ■
InMode Empower RF
Struggling with weak pelvic floor muscles? Frustrated by urinary incontinence or discomfort? Say goodbye to these common women’s health issues! Transform Your Wellness Journey With InMode’s EmpowerRF, a highly effective, non-invasive technology designed for women’s wellness. It offers a versatile, multi-functional solution addressing a wide range of conditions women have been taught are normal, and as a result are suffering in silence. Utilizing multiple applicators, EmpowerRF delivers treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Procedures can be conveniently performed in a physician’s office, taking as little as 30 minutes. One 30-minute treatment with Empower RF is the same as doing 20,000 Kegel exercises! inmodemd.co.uk
How a Wool Duvet can Help Combat Night Sweats
Meet Jessica, the Southdown Sleep Steward
Fourteen years ago, Jessica Cross launched her brand of luxury Southdown wool duvets. Being a woman of a certain age, and having experienced her fair share of menopausal night sweats, she has always understood how stressful and uncomfortable those clammy nights can be. Over the years, she has advised thousands of women on how to improve the quality and quantity of their sleep, which in turn has revealed to her the sheer variety of physical and emotional challenges her menopausal customers experience.
“My customers, switching from a synthetic to a wool duvet, say it is literally an overnight revelation in comfort,” she says. “While a wool duvet will not stop night sweats, it instantly reduces the clammy symptoms, rewarding the sleeper with noticeably increased comfort and temperature regulation.” With a cheeky grin, Jessica then confesses, “I have reached the stage in my life when I won’t travel without my wool duvet. I often get odd looks when I check into a hotel with my Southdown duvet but that is infinitely preferable to a restless, sweaty night, tossing and turning under synthetic bedding.”
So What’s so Special About Wool?
Wool wicks moisture away from your body from where it just evaporates through the duvet. The fibre can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture so it works all night long – doing what it does best, keeping you warm but comfortably dry.
Other duvet fillings such as down, feather and especially synthetics cannot wick moisture away like wool and so the moisture gets trapped between you and the duvet. That’s why you wake up in a hot and clammy state of extreme discomfort.
As one of our customers said: “My wife had been having hot night sweats, waking up in discomfort. We were using a high-quality goose down duvet. We then started using one of Southdown Duvets’ wool duvets and, hey presto, no more night sweats and a perfect night’s rest for both of us.”
Can I Get Advice Before I Buy a Wool Duvet?
We wouldn’t have it any other way. Jessica invites prospective customers to call Southdown Duvets for an initial, no obligation, consultation during which she will assess your personal circumstances and needs. She acknowledges that every customer is unique with respect to factors such as normal sleeping temperatures, their menopause symptoms, ambient temperatures of their bedroom, severity of the night sweats and, not least, the comfort preference of a sleeping partner. “There are many variables to consider and having an understanding of these goes a long way to matching the customer up to the right weight duvet,” she notes.
In acknowledging all this, Southdown Duvets offers no fewer than 5 different weights of duvet so Jessica and her team have the flexibility to match their customers up with their perfect duvet.
How Will I Know if a Wool Duvet will Help with my Night Sweats?
You should feel the improvement immediately. However, Southdown Duvets offers a unique 12-month refund or exchange policy. “We want our customers to experience their duvet through the seasons,” says Jessica,” because, for example, what might suit a customer perfectly in June might not be quite right in December.”
“It’s very much a Goldilocks conundrum ” she chuckles, “it’s a matter of finding just the right weight. So give us a call –rest assured, we will understand what you are going through and that we can help.”
Sleeping Through Menopause
One of the most common, yet often overlooked, symptoms of menopause is sleep disruption
Menopause is a significant stage in a woman’s life, marking the end of reproductive years. While the average age for menopause is around 51, the transition, known as perimenopause, can begin several years earlier. This phase brings with it a host of physical and emotional changes due to fluctuating hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone.
One of the most common, yet often overlooked, symptoms is sleep disruption. Sleep issues during menopause can
significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, leading to fatigue, mood changes, and decreased cognitive function. Understanding the connection between menopause and sleep, as well as finding effective treatments, is key to improving well-being during this time.
During menopause, levels of oestrogen and progesterone decrease. Oestrogen, in particular, plays a key role in regulating sleep by helping to manage the body’s temperature and maintaining a stable mood.
HOT FLUSHES
One of the hallmark symptoms of menopause is hot flushes, which are sudden sensations of heat that spread through the body, often accompanied by sweating. When these occur at night, they are known as night sweats. These episodes can jolt a woman awake, leaving her feeling uncomfortable and restless.
Fluctuating hormones can also contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to insomnia. Menopausal women are also at risk of
developing sleep apnoea, a condition in which breathing temporarily stops during sleep. This is partly due to the drop in oestrogen, which has been linked to changes in airway muscles. Sleep apnoea not only leads to poor-quality sleep but also causes daytime fatigue and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Some women also experience restless leg syndrome (RLS) during menopause. This condition causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, leading to an overwhelming urge to move them.
COPING
One of the most effective treatments for sleep issues during menopause is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT helps replenish declining levels of oestrogen and progesterone, which can reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and improve sleep quality. However, HRT isn’t suitable for everyone, so it’s essential to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare provider before considering this treatment.
CBT-I is a structured program that helps individuals identify and change the thoughts and behaviors that cause or worsen sleep problems. It has been
shown to be highly effective in treating insomnia without the need for medication.
CBT-I focuses on improving sleep hygiene, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and managing anxiety, all of which are crucial during menopause.
For some women, medications may be necessary to improve sleep quality.
Low-dose antidepressants or sleep aids may be prescribed to manage symptoms like depression, anxiety, or insomnia. Additionally, some supplements, such as melatonin, may help regulate the sleepwake cycle, particularly when hormone levels are imbalanced. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medications or supplements.
LIFESTYLE
Making certain lifestyle adjustments can also have a profound impact on sleep quality during menopause. Some strategies include:
Exercise: Regular physical activity can promote better sleep by reducing stress and anxiety. However, avoid exercising too close to bedtime, as this can increase alertness and make falling asleep harder.
Dietary changes : Avoid caffeine, alcohol,
Southdown Duvets
Tired of waking up a hot molten mess? Did you know that wool duvets greatly reduce the effects of menopausal night sweats?
As Jessica Cross, founder of Southdown Duvets notes, “customers who switch from synthetic to our wool duvets say it is, literally, an overnight revelation in comfort.” For 14 years, Jessica and her team have been offering no-obligation sleep consultations during which they will listen to you and understand your unique needs, before recommending the perfect duvet. And with Southdown Duvets’ hugely generous and exceptional 12 -month return/ exchange policy, Jessica will work with you to achieve greatly improved sleep comfort.
https://southdownduvets.com
and spicy foods, especially in the evening, as they can trigger hot flashes and interfere with sleep. Eating smaller meals close to bedtime may also help with night sweats. Create a sleep-friendly environment: Keeping the bedroom cool, quiet, and dark is essential for quality sleep. Consider using breathable, moisture-wicking bedding and wearing lightweight pyjamas to stay comfortable.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends, helps regulate your internal clock. A consistent routine promotes better sleep over time. Some women find relief through acupuncture, which can help balance the body’s energy and promote relaxation. Herbal remedies such as black cohosh, valerian root, and evening primrose oil are sometimes used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, including sleep disturbances. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before using alternative treatments, as their effectiveness varies, and some may interact with medications. ■
A New Hope for Back Pain
Chronic lower back pain can have many causes, but it’s always debilitating. What are the solutions?
Chronic lower back pain (CLBP) is one of the most common and debilitating conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people of all sorts around the world. It is characterised by pain that lasts for 12 weeks or longer, even after the initial cause has been treated or resolved.
CLBP can result from various factors, ranging from physical injury to degenerative changes in the spine.
Common causes include:
1. Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, the intervertebral discs that act as cushions between the vertebrae begin to wear down. This degeneration can lead to pain and discomfort as the discs lose their ability to absorb shock.
2. Herniated or Bulging Discs
A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel-
like material of a spinal disc leaks through a tear in its outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs.
3. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition can be caused by age-related changes, such as the thickening of ligaments or bone spurs.
4. Multifidus Dysfunction
The multifidus muscles are the key stabilizing muscles in the lower back. A single injury to the back can cause impaired muscle control of the multifidus. This lack of muscle control can decrease the spine’s functional stability, leaving the spine susceptible to further injury and overloading.
5. Arthritis
Osteoarthritis, the degeneration of joint cartilage, can affect the spine and lead to inflammation and pain in the lower back.
6. Other Factors
Obesity, poor posture, a sedentary lifestyle, and psychological stress can also contribute to the development and persistence of CLBP, exacerbated by emotional factors such as depression and anxiety.
TREATMENTS
Managing chronic low back pain often requires a multi-disciplinary approach, combining physical and psychological treatments.
1. Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. For more severe cases, prescription medications like muscle relaxants, opioids, or antidepressants may be recommended.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for CLBP. A tailored exercise program of stretching and strengthening exercises designed to strengthen the core muscles can help alleviate pain and prevent future episodes. Manual therapy techniques such as massage or spinal manipulation are often used.
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a form of psychotherapy that addresses the psychological and emotional aspects of chronic pain. By helping patients reframe negative thoughts and behaviors associated with their pain, CBT
can reduce pain perception and improve coping strategies.
4. Injections
For individuals who do not respond to conservative treatments, injections such as corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the affected areas.
5. Surgery
In severe cases, when conservative treatments fail and structural abnormalities are causing significant pain, surgery may be considered. Procedures such as spinal fusion or discectomy can help stabilize the spine or remove the damaged portion of a disc. However, surgery is usually seen as a last resort due to the risks and mixed outcomes associated with spinal procedures.
RESTORATIVE NEUROSTIMULATION
One of the more advanced treatment options for chronic low back pain, particularly for individuals who have not found relief through traditional methods, is ReActiv8 Restorative Neurostimulation. This therapy addresses mechanical CLBP, by delivering stimulation to the multifidus muscle in two daily 30-min sessions, and aims to restore neuromuscular control.
For mechanical CLBP patients who have attempted and failed conservative therapy, and who are not indicated for a major surgical procedure, ReActiv8 may offer a highly effective solution
designed to restore functional stability and reduce pain. Through controlled and targeted stimulation, the device aids in the restoration of the body’s natural ability to control spine stability, improving functionality and decreasing CLBP over time.
The benefits of restorative neurostimulation include offering relief without the need for long term medication use, reducing the risks of side effects and dependency; providing personalized control, so patients can run their therapy sessions whenever it is convenient for them; and improved quality of life, so for many patients, restorative neurostimulation significantly reduces pain and improves function, allowing them to participate in daily activities with greater ease.
Mainstay Medical, the provider of ReActiv8 Restorative Neurostimulation for chronic low back pain, quotes; “Low back pain is the leading cause of patients living with disability and missing work and can result in an impaired quality of life.”
“Two thirds of patients suffering from CLBP are deficient in correct functional stability and proper mechanics of the spine, which can be the root causes of mechanical low back pain. This dysfunction is caused by poor function in the body’s key lumbar stabilizing muscle: the multifidus.”
“ReActiv8 is the first and only restorative treatment option for mechanical chronic low back pain as a result of multifidus muscle dysfunction.” Find out more at lowbackpainrecovery.com/uk ■
Back Pain Do you have
Most people don’t know that the majority of low back pain is actually due to muscle dysfunction. Mechanical chronic low back pain results from an injury or stress on the body’s structures surrounding the spine, including joints, muscles, tendons or other bones. Often, this type of pain is due to inhibition of the multifidus muscle, which plays a critical role in stabilizing the back .
During everyday activities like brushing teeth, washing dishes, reaching for items?
The Problem could be Muscle Dysfunction...
Causing frequent muscle spasms or feelings of instablility?
Sitting or standing in the same position for extended periods of time?
What is Treatment?
• ReActiv8 is implanted underneath the skin during a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure.
• ReActiv8 delivers pulses to nerves in the lower back and is designed to restore function of the muscles to reduce pain.
• You control your twice-daily, 30-minute therapy sessions, at home, which can feel like a deep tissue massage.
Patient Outcomes
~9 out of 10 patients were “Definitely satisfied” with ReActiv8.
~8 out of 10 patients reported substantial (>50%) improvements in pain and/or function.
~7 out of 10 patients voluntarily eliminated or reduced their opioid intake*
Clinical study data show that patients experience progressive long-term improvements in pain and function, over time.
To learn more and find out if ReActiv8 may be suitable for you, scan the QR code or visit LowBackPainRecovery.com to complete a questionnaire.
Why wait for a GP appointment for everyday health concerns? Order our at-home tests online and get fast, reliable results in the comfort and privacy of your own home. It’s simple, quick, and puts you in charge of your health.
HDIY Health
With the di culties
of
getting
an
appointment with a GP, what can you do to diagnose your own health conditions at home?
ome self-testing is an increasingly popular option as it becomes more di icult to get an appointment with an NHS GP. So what are its potentially most useful applications?
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, it has become common to carry out certain straightforward health tests at home. While the Covid-19 test normally involved a nasal swab, a common method of home testing for a wide range of conditions is with a pin-prick of blood collected with a sterile lancet, a diluent liquid and a testing cassette. Results are o en given by comparing the lines on the test cassette
with a card provided – something similar to a Covid-19 test.
You can, for instance, test your own Vitamin D levels, or levels of ferritin, an indicator of the amount of iron available to the body. Low levels of this protein in the blood are an indication of depleted iron stores, a condition that precedes the development of anaemia. A decrease can be caused by pregnancy, haemorrhages, and alterations in iron uptake.
ALLERGIES
Allergy tests are for those who show symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, skin redness, eye irritation and sneezing. Immunoglobulins E (IgE) are the class of antibodies most involved in allergic reactions, and in normal conditions are present in blood in a low quantity. High levels can indicate exposure to allergens such as pollen, mould or certain foods, and would suggest further testing to determine the exact allergen.
and one of the most useful is for ProstateSpecific Antigen (PSA), a protein produced by the epithelial cells of the prostate gland. High levels of PSA can indicate prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate cancer. ■
Berkeley Health
Another important self-test is for albumin in the urine, which may indicate a malfunction of the kidneys and can accompany kidney disease or heart failure;
Since Covid, more people have felt comfortable testing their health at home, leading to a growing demand for our at-home health testing range. Our kits are designed to be user-friendly and non-invasive, complete with easy-to-follow instructions. You can order them online with just a few clicks, and they’ll be delivered straight to your door. Plus, you’ll have your results in minutes! This shift has demonstrated just how easy it can be to take control of your health from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Jon Hughes, CEO of Berkeley Health www.berkeleyhealth.com
PROTECT YOUR FUTURE HEALTH
The current NHS waiting list stands at 7.62 million, as reported by the British Medical Association. Long waiting times can lead to emotional stress, exacerbate existing injuries and illnesses, and significantly diminish quality of life, particularly for those living in pain or facing limitations in daily activities. According to The IFS, it is projected that the NHS waiting list will not return to pre-pandemic levels until 2029.
More people than ever are turning to private health insurance to protect their future selves and their families. An estimated 11.7 million people in the UK had health insurance in 2022 (22% of the UK population), according to Finder.com. This was an 83% increase from 2021. So what are the reasons for this growth?
Health insurance benefits
A health insurance policy offers peace of mind for your future - you just never know when you’re going to become ill or injured. Other benefits vary among insurers, but typically include:
Skipping the NHS waiting list
Cancer Cover
Access to breakthrough treatments
24/7 access to a Digital GP service
Diagnostic tests
Mental health support
Affordability & Accessibility of Health Insurance
Of course, taking out private medical insurance that meets your needs and requirements is going to come at a cost. But more people are realising how affordable it is. Policies can vary hugely, to cater to a variety of needs and budgets, which is why taking independent advice is recommended.
A free and independent advisory service, like Usay Compare, can help you to find a suitable health insurance policy by comparing quotes from UK leading insurers such as, AXA, Aviva, Bupa and Vitality.
This expert advice gives you peace of mind that you’re getting the best policy for your needs at the best price.
Usay Compare’s Customer Stories
“We were told in a friendly manner what we needed to know in plain & honest facts, and our questions were welcomed and answered.”
“We now have the peace of mind to know that we are covered both with the NHS and privately for any further problems that are bound to occur as we get older.”
“My advisor was well-informed and gave me expert advice to clarify what is a complex decision to be made. I felt in very safe and helpful hands.”
Scan for a quote
The health insurance experts
The Cost of Care
NHS treatment can be great, but can involve delay and inconvenience. So what should you look for in private medical insurance cover?
Health insurance has become an essential part of maintaining wellbeing, even though most of us can benefit from the services of the NHS. With growing concerns about NHS waiting lists and the increasing demand for timely treatments, many individuals and families are turning to private health insurance for peace of mind.
The NHS is one of the UK’s greatest assets, providing free healthcare to millions of people. However, due to funding constraints and overwhelming demand, NHS waiting times have increased significantly, particularly for non-urgent procedures. For some, the wait for diagnosis or treatment can stretch to several months, which can lead to delays in care for serious conditions like cancer, heart disease, and orthopaedic issues.
Certain medical conditions require quick diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term complications or progression. For example, conditions like cancer, where early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, or heart disease, where time is crucial to preventing fatal events, waiting for NHS treatment can sometimes be a risk.
Health insurance provides a way to bypass lengthy waiting lists. With private insurance, individuals have access to specialists, diagnostic tests, and treatments much faster, which can be life-changing in the case of severe or timesensitive conditions.
PLANS
Private health insurance in the UK comes in various forms, tailored to different needs,
from individual plans to comprehensive family and business coverage.
Individual Health Insurance
Individual health insurance is designed for those who want personalised cover that gives them quick access to private healthcare. This type of policy is suitable for people who are self-employed, freelancers, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with knowing they won’t have to wait for medical treatments.
Family Health Insurance
This provides coverage for everyone in the household, ensuring that parents and children alike have access to timely treatments and private healthcare options. Family policies often cover a wide range of health services, from routine check-ups to
hospital care, and can provide extras like paediatric care or mental health services.
Business Health Insurance
Businesses in the UK can offer corporate health insurance plans to employees, helping to attract and retain talent by providing a valuable perk. Such a plan helps reduce employee sick leave, ensuring faster recovery from illnesses or surgeries and boosting overall productivity.
Senior Health Insurance
As individuals age, their healthcare needs typically increase. Senior health insurance caters to those over 60, offering policies that often cover chronic conditions, joint replacements, cancer treatment, arthritis, heart disease and other areas where older adults are more vulnerable.
Child Health Insurance
For families with children, child-specific health insurance is a worthwhile investment. Children are prone to a variety of health issues, from respiratory conditions like asthma to fractures and injuries from sports. Child health insurance covers paediatric care, dental treatments, and quick access to specialists.
The beauty of private health insurance lies in the added benefits and extras that can be included in a policy, such as in-patient cover, referring to healthcare services where a patient needs to be admitted to a hospital for surgery or treatment; day-patient cover, applying to treatments where a hospital stay is required but not overnight, such as cataract removal; and out-patient cover, including services like diagnostic tests, specialist consultations, or scans that don’t require hospital admission.
OTHER EXTRAS
Cancer is one of the most critical areas where time is of the essence. With private cancer cover, patients can receive faster diagnoses and access to the latest treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical interventions. Cancer cover often includes support services such as counselling and rehabilitation, making it a crucial component of many health insurance policies.
Some health insurance plans offer travel cover, which protects you when abroad. This is useful for frequent travellers who want the assurance that they can receive medical care abroad without high out-ofpocket costs.
Eye health becomes increasingly important as we age, and many policies offer optical cover for routine eye tests, prescription glasses, and treatments for eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.
Mental health cover has gained increasing importance as awareness of mental health conditions grows. Private health insurance can provide access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, without the long waiting times typically seen in the NHS. This is particularly beneficial for conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, where timely intervention can prevent worsening symptoms.
Therapy cover is another significant addition to many policies, allowing patients access to a range of therapies such as physiotherapy, chiropractic treatments, and counselling. This can be especially important for those recovering from surgeries or managing chronic conditions like back pain.
So when looking for private health insurance cover, it’s worth considering which types are most important to you, and it’s often useful to use a price comparison service which can search for the best deals from the major insurance providers. ■
The UK’s only organic certified functional mushroom tinctures, grown and produced in Somerset.
Dive deep into the world of medicinal fungi, with the strongest mushroom tinctures on the market.
Organic Soil Association-accredited, Bristol Fungarium forages, farms and formulates its UK mushroom strains. Tap into the expertise of the Fungarium and discover why their products are recommended by leading healthcare practitioners and loved by thousands.
Bristol Fungarium is the only company in the UK that sells 100% organic certified and UK native medicinal mushroom tinctures - all grown, harvested, extracted and manufactured at their farm in Somerset. They are also the only company in the UK that funds PhDs conducting scientific research into the neuroprotective and neurogenerative properties of mushrooms. Each of their eight tinctures have a 1:4 ratio and are triple extracted, produced in small batches at a high strength which are clean and sustainable. As the world changes and we are rapidly having to alter the way we navigate our existence, Bristol Fungarium’s objective is to grow local mushroom strains that have developed over millions of years in an attempt to be mindful about our impact on the local flora and fauna whilst staying connected to the natural world.
LIFE’S WHAT YOU MAKE IT
It can be hard finding the support you need to keep fit and active in later life, but there’s good news if you know where to look
FIRST EVER RSV VACCINATIONS ANNOUNCED
The NHS has started vaccinating people against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), for the first time in its history. RSV, a leading cause of infant mortality around the world, is a common cause of coughs and colds but can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis, which are highly dangerous to older people and young children.
As part of winter preparations, the NHS will be vaccinating pregnant women and older adults, including those turning 75 on or after 1st September. There will also be a one-off ‘catchup’ offer for everyone aged 75 to 79 years old to ensure the older age group are protected as the winter months approach.
Research from the thousands of women across the world who have been vaccinated against RSV shows that it reduces the risk of severe lung infection by around 70% in the first six months of life, with NHS teams across England gearing up to roll out the jabs all year round as of this week.
A recent study in the Lancet showed that the new programme could prevent 5,000 hospitalisations and 15,000 A&E attendances for infants – a critical, life-saving step forward to help front line staff prepare for increased winter pressures. The same modelling suggests that the first season of the older adult’s catch-up programme could prevent around 2,500 hospital admissions, 15,000 GP visits and 60,000 RSV illnesses in adults in the older age group.
BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS AT DENTISTS AND OPTICIANS
The NHS is trialling blood pressure checks at dentist and optometry appointments to help find people at hidden risks of stroke or heart attacks. The scheme which will be up and running in the coming months follows the success of NHS community pharmacy blood pressure checks, which has delivered more than a million checks in the last year.
As high blood pressure usually has no symptoms, it is estimated that 4.2 million people in England have the condition without knowing it. If you have high blood pressure, reducing it even a small amount can help lower your risk of stroke, heart attacks, kidney disease and vascular dementia. The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get a blood pressure test.
The NHS has piloted the scheme in local dental and optometry teams in London and Yorkshire, but now more sites across England will trial the service with patients who may not otherwise have interactions with NHS services.
BILL BAILEY’S S.O.F.A WORKOUT
Comedian, musician and Strictly Come Dancing winner Bill Bailey is promoting charity Age UK’s We Are Undefeatable campaign to encourage activity for people living with longterm health conditions. Bailey, who lives with asthma, is demonstrating easy enjoyable ways to be active at home using the Sit On Fitness Apparatus – or SOFA. He says “This S.O.F.A. workout is an absolute game-changer. You can start right
Managing Menopause
The berkeleyhealth Menopause Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) urine test is an easy-to-use, at-home kit. It checks your FSH levels, helping you determine if you’re entering menopause. Use this test to understand your hormone changes and better manage potential menopause symptoms. www.berkeleyhealth.com
in your own living room, on your sofa - it’s all about making movement fun and open for people living with and without a health condition.”
The routine is a mixture of fun and uplifting sport-inspired movements that can be tailored to everyone’s capabilities, with moves including arm raises, chest presses and sitting marches. weareundefeatable.co.uk
Sardines For Health
Straight from the icy-cold waters of the North Atlantic, our sardines are healthy, delicious, and packed full of protein. Available in a delicious range of classic and contemporary flavours, you’re sure to love the way they add an instant boost of taste to every meal. www.brunswick.ca
ASmiling Through Menopause
s hormone levels fluctuate, particularly oestrogen, women going through menopause may experience a range of oral health issues, from dry mouth to gum disease. One of the most common oral health complaints during menopause is dry mouth, or xerostomia. This occurs when the production of saliva decreases, which can make the mouth feel dry, sticky, and uncomfortable. Saliva is essential for maintaining oral health - it helps wash away food particles, neutralises acids, and protects against tooth decay and infections.
Menopause can also lead to changes in the gums. Hormonal fluctuations can make gums more sensitive, inflamed, or prone to bleeding. This makes women more susceptible to gum disease, which occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and causes the gums to become infected. Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, is reversible with good oral hygiene, but if le untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
Burning Mouth Syndrome
Another oral health issue related to menopause is burning mouth syndrome. This condition causes a burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, particularly on the tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth. While the exact cause is unclear, hormonal changes during menopause are believed to play a role.
Bone and Tooth Loss
Oestrogen plays a vital role in maintaining bone density, and as oestrogen levels drop during menopause, women may experience bone loss. This includes the bones that support the teeth, which can lead to tooth loss over time. Regular
Some changes brought by menopause are familiar, others, like its e ects on the mouth and teeth, less so
dental check-ups and ensuring proper calcium and vitamin D intake are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and bones. Women should be aware of the risks, practice good oral hygiene, and seek advice from their dentist if they experience symptoms like dry mouth, gum sensitivity, or tooth loss. By staying proactive, it’s possible to maintain a healthy smile during menopause and beyond.
Lingora® Natural Oral Health products blend science with nature. Bestseller, Lingora® Natural Oral Rinse relieves drymouth symptoms, assists the healing of gum disease and balances the oral microbiome. Made from hand-picked wild arctic lingonberries, they give you all the benefits of a medically registered product without any of the damaging chemicals. With no additives, all-natural ingredients and vegan accreditation, you’re choosing health without compromise. With over 15 years of research and clinical trials by inventor Dr Pirjo Pärnänen, these products are full of natural goodness to aid oral home care routines for a happier, healthier mouth. ■
The Crisis in Social Care
A report by charity Age UK report finds older people are often struggling due to insufficient access to high quality NHS treatment and social care
New analysis carried out by Age UK has found that two million older people in England are now living with some unmet need for social care. Age UK strongly supports the conclusion of Lord Darzi’s recent report on the state of the NHS that the answer lies in focusing more on prevention and early intervention, supporting older people at home or in a care home to stay fit and well. This stark finding is one of many in a
major new Age UK report, The State of Health and Care of Older People in 2024 Drawing on the latest available data, the report concludes that England’s health and care services continue to be under enormous pressure so that, despite the best efforts of many dedicated staff, they are currently unable to meet the needs of all the older people presenting who require treatment, care and support.
Long-standing problems were greatly
exacerbated during the pandemic years and despite some recovery since then in some areas, in others there has been a decline in capacity, service availability and performance, with extremely worrying implications for older people and their families and unpaid carers. This is the more concerning in light of a rising older population, the growth of which will accelerate over the next decade, increasing by a projected 4.3 million by 2044.
However, more optimistically, the new report shows that significant numbers of emergency hospital admissions could definitely be avoided if the right kind of help was provided earlier on, before relatively minor health problems develop into full scale crises.
The inability of services to intervene quickly or effectively enough to support older people at home leads to many waiting for very long periods in A&E and then becoming stuck in a hospital bed because of a lack of community-based care, creating huge problems for hospital managers and undermining their own chances of making a good recovery.
UNMET NEEDS
Age UK finds that in particular, very old people aged over 80 are often not getting the good and timely NHS treatment, care and support they need and ought to be able to expect. More than one in four (28%) are living with some unmet need for social care, and people in this age group are also
the most likely to experience long waits in A&E, having arrived there by ambulance. Many have complex health and care needs and at the moment the system is often insufficiently geared up to meeting them, though there are some isolated, excellent examples of good practice. The Charity says they urgently need to be scaled up and that the forthcoming NHS Ten Year Plan is well-placed to be the vehicle for driving this through.
The data shows that of older people aged 65:
h 10% (1.1 million) of older people have difficulty dressing
h 5% (500,000) of older people have difficulty walking across a room
h 6% (640,000) of older people have difficulty bathing
h 1% (140,000) of older people have difficulty eating
h 6% (600,000) of older people have difficulty getting in and out of bed
h 4% (440,000) of older people have difficulty going to the toilet
The numbers of district nurses reduced by 17.5% between 2014 and 2023 – a trend in completely the wrong direction, given how central their role is in treating older people at home for problems like pressure sores, which can develop into serious health problems requiring acute care. Similarly, the NHS workforce is not growing fast enough to meet increasing needs and acuity, but to the extent that it has been growing at all, hospitals, rather than community settings, have generally been the beneficiaries.
ASSESSMENT
The report finds that primary (GP) and community health services, and social care, are either simply inadequate in terms of availability or are insufficiently joined up and planned. The charity says services must work better together in ways that enable older people in declining health to be identified and assessed, and the provision then has to be in place so they can benefit from early intervention and proactive support. Moving to a position where all these things happen, not just in some places, but everywhere, is the big challenge we face and is likely to require a shift of resources out of hospitals and into the community.
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK said: “It’s deeply worrying that the numbers of older people living with some unmet need for social care have now reached two million, out of a total older population in England of about 11 million. Some of these older people may be just about managing, but others will undoubtedly be struggling badly with everyday tasks like getting out of bed and washing, increasing their risk of problems like falls which could cause them serious injury, or worse.”
“Our fear is that unless this Government grasps the nettle of social care reform firmly and quickly, they will find it impossible to stabilise and strengthen the NHS either, to the enormous detriment of all of us but of older people, its principal client group, most of all.
Age UK recommends that every Integrated Care System – the body responsible for health and care services
in each area – should put in place an Ageing Well Strategy, including how they will invest in public health over the life course and into older age; should invest in GP practices, primary care and community services to offer coordinated support for people living with long-term conditions and/or frailty; and should investment in the workforce, premises and technology.
Other recommendations are there should be an ambitious preventative public health strategy which encourages and enables physical activity among older people and those with long term health conditions, building on Sport England’s ‘We Are Undefeatable’ programme.
Age UK also suggests the expansion of the number of ‘integrated neighbourhood teams’ bringing together health and social care professionals with a range of other support workers to help older people with complex needs to maximise their health and independence, and a strategy to clear waiting lists, including a return to the 18week standard and support for people while they are waiting.
It also suggests the implementation of the NHS Workforce Plan, and to make sure that all healthcare professionals have
the skills they need to support an ageing population.
REFORM
The final four suggestions resulting from the Age UK report are that the government should:
h Within 18 months, publish a comprehensive plan to reform social care and commit to implementing it during this Parliament.
h Fund an immediate pay rise for care professionals, and within two years publish a comprehensive social care workforce plan, joined up with the NHS Workforce Plan.
h Introduce a right to at least five days of paid Carer’s Leave, plus a longer period of unpaid leave.
h Significantly increase access to respite services and practical support for carers that recognises the specific needs of older carers.
h Stabilise the social care sector and act quickly to consult on putting funding on a sustainable footing.
You can read the full report at www.ageuk.org.uk ■
KEY FINDINGS
Key findings of the Age UK report include:
❖ The number of people over 75 has grown by 18% since 2017
❖ Yet fewer older people are receiving local authority long term care (542,420 2022/23 compared to 565,240 in 2017/18).
❖ Growth in the number of GPs is not keeping pace with the population growth of older people aged 75+
❖ The risk of needing to attend A&E increases as we get older: per 100,000 population, there are 49,917 attendances for the 75-79 age group, rising to 93,931 for those aged over 90.
❖ The social care sector is struggling to fill vacancies in almost every key adult social care role.
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REDISCOVER CALM
CBD for Menopausal Relief
As women navigate menopause, they often face a variety of physical and emotional challenges, including hot flushes, mood swings, sleep disturbances and joint pain. 74% of Every Budy’s customers are women over 35, which has provided us a unique insight into how CBD can offer relief on the journey through menopause.
Achieving Results
It usually takes 40 minutes for you to feel the benefits from CBD, but some people can feel the benefits sooner.
Our experience (over 90,000 happy CBD consultations!) has taught us that most people will feel the benefit from CBD between 20mg – 50mg in a single dose.
Some people may require more or less CBD than others to receive the benefits.
Follow the steps below to ensure it works for you:
Start with a medium strength CBD product and take 1 dose every day for 5 days.
If after a further 5 days you have not received the benefit you were looking for then increase your daily dose again and continue for another 5 days. STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3
If after 5 days you have not received the benefit you were looking for then increase your daily dose and continue for another 5 days.
By now you will have been taking CBD for 15 days. If you have got to this stage, followed the advice in steps 1-3, and haven’t felt the benefit you are looking for then we advise to increase the strength of your product and repeat the steps above.
Ready To Join The Every Budy Family?
A 2021 survey by the British Medical Journal found that 55% of women in the UK were aware of the benefits CBD oil may provide for menopause. That’s over 17 million women in the UK alone.
Anxiety & Mood
In the UK, 67% of women using CBD for menopause report positive effects on anxiety and mood swings.
Sleep Improvement
A 2019 UK-based study published in The Lancet indicated that 64% of women using CBD for menopausal symptoms experienced improved sleep quality.
Pain & Inflammation
60% of UK women using CBD report relief from joint pain, muscle aches and other inflammatory symptoms associated with menopause.
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Call our friendly team on 07534 115818. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
A Natural Option for Menopause Relief
The natural biological process of menopause can bring about a wide range of physical and emotional changes. Can CBD o er relief from the symptoms?
Typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, menopause is characterised by fluctuating hormone levels - primarily a decrease in oestrogen and progesterone – which can lead to symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, insomnia, and joint pain.
While traditional treatments such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) have been the go-to for managing these symptoms, more women are now exploring alternative and holistic remedies. One such option is cannabidiol, or CBD, a compound derived from the cannabis plant that has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits.
WHAT IS CBD?
CBD is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana, CBD is non-intoxicating. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that help regulate various bodily functions such as sleep, mood, pain, and inflammation. This interaction has led to growing interest in CBD as a natural remedy for various conditions, including those associated with menopause.
Common menopausal symptoms include:
Hot Flushes and Night Sweats
One of the hallmark symptoms of menopause is hot flushes, sudden feelings of intense heat that can be accompanied by sweating, flushing, and a rapid heartbeat. For many women, these can also occur during sleep, leading to night sweats and disrupted rest.
While there is limited research specifically focusing on CBD’s e ects on hot flushes, its ability to interact with the body’s ECS may o er some promise. The ECS is involved in regulating body temperature, and CBD’s anti-anxiety and calming e ects may indirectly help alleviate the severity of hot flashes by reducing stress, a known trigger for these episodes. »
Every Budy
With just over 100K face-toface consultations, Every Budy knows the number one reason for failing with CBD - not finding the right dose. Most people will feel the benefits of CBD with a 20mg-50mg dose. Some people may require more. It’s vital to test different doses to find what’s right for you. If you’ve been taking CBD for a week and it’s not doing it for you, try increasing your dosage by 10mg and review after another 7 days. Still not feeling it? You know what to do - increase and you’ll find your life-changing relief!
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Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances
Sleep problems are common during menopause, often caused by hormonal imbalances, anxiety, or night sweats. CBD has been studied for its potential to improve sleep quality. Some research suggests that CBD may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, it may reduce the REM phase of sleep disorders, which can lead to more restorative rest. While more research is needed, many women have reported improved sleep after incorporating CBD into their routines.
Mood Swings and Anxiety
Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. These emotional symptoms can significantly impact daily life and relationships. CBD’s ability to interact
with serotonin receptors in the brain may help regulate mood and alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Some studies have shown that CBD can have an antidepressant-like effect, potentially offering a more natural alternative to prescription medications for mood management during menopause.
Joint Pain and Inflammation
As oestrogen levels drop, some women experience joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, a condition known as menopause-related arthritis. CBD is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. It works by interacting with receptors in the ECS that are involved in pain regulation, potentially offering relief for those experiencing menopause-related discomfort.
Bone Health
Osteoporosis, or the weakening of bones, is a concern for postmenopausal women due to the decline in oestrogen, which plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. While research on CBD’s effects on bone health is still in its early stages, some animal studies have shown that it may promote bone healing and prevent age-related bone loss. While CBD should not be considered a primary treatment for osteoporosis, it could potentially support overall bone health when combined with other therapies.
QUALITY
As CBD continues to grow in popularity, it’s crucial to ensure the quality and safety of the product being used. Since the industry is still relatively unregulated, not all CBD products are created equal. Consumers should look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals such as pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents. Full-spectrum CBD products, which contain other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, may offer more effective relief due to the “entourage effect,” where the compounds work synergistically. ■
Vitamins for Vitality
Our requirements for vitamins and minerals changes with age and sex. What should you be topping up on as the years go by?
Vitamins are essential nutrients that play a crucial role in maintaining health and supporting various bodily functions, such as the immune system, bone health, and energy production.
As we age, our body’s ability to absorb and utilize certain vitamins changes, leading to different requirements for men and women.
A well-balanced diet is key, but supplements may also be necessary to
ensure we get adequate nutrition in terms of both vitamins and certain key minerals.
Vitamins are organic compounds that the body needs in small amounts to function properly. They are involved in numerous processes, including:
Energy production: Many vitamins, such as the B vitamins, help convert food into energy.
Immune support: Vitamins C and D help to maintain the immune system.
Bone health: One of Vitamin D’s main functions is to ensure adequate levels of
calcium in your blood. Vitamin K plays a key role in calcium absorption and bone health.
Skin, hair, and nail health: Vitamins A, C, and E help maintain healthy skin, while biotin (B7) promotes strong hair and nails.
APPETITE
The body cannot produce most vitamins, so it is essential to get them through diet or supplements. As people age, their vitamin needs can change due to various factors.
IMAGES: Dreamstime
These include decreased nutrient absorption, changes in appetite, and lifestyle habits.
Aging affects the body’s metabolism, absorption, and utilization of vitamins in several ways. For example, older adults may produce less stomach acid, which is necessary for absorbing certain vitamins like B12. Additionally, the body’s ability to synthesize vitamin D through sunlight exposure declines with age.
One of the most significant age-related changes involves vitamin B12. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining healthy nerve cells, red blood cells, and DNA production. As we age, the body’s ability to absorb B12 from food decreases due to reduced stomach acid and enzymes. This can lead to B12 deficiency, causing symptoms like fatigue, memory problems, and numbness in the limbs.
Adults aged 50 and older are often
advised to get their B12 from fortified foods or supplements, as they may not absorb enough from food alone.
VITAMINS
Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. As people age, their skin becomes less efficient at synthesizing vitamin D from sunlight. Moreover, older adults may spend less time outdoors, further reducing their vitamin D levels. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures.
For men and women over 50, the recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 600-800 IU, but many experts suggest higher doses, especially for those at risk of deficiency.
Calcium is another vital nutrient for bone health, particularly for postmenopausal women, who are at
higher risk for osteoporosis due to declining oestrogen levels. Calcium works closely with vitamin D to maintain bone density and prevent fractures.
Women over 50 should aim for 1,200 mg of calcium per day, while men aged 51-70 need around 1,000 mg. After 70, men’s needs increase to match women’s requirements at 1,200 mg.
Vitamin A supports vision, immune function, and skin health. However, the body stores vitamin A in the liver, and too much can lead to toxicity, especially as people age.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin A is 700 mcg for women and 900 mcg for men. Men typically require slightly more vitamin A due to their larger body size, but over-supplementation can be harmful, so food sources like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach are preferable.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports the immune system, skin health, and wound healing. It also helps the body absorb iron, which can be particularly beneficial for older adults at risk of anaemia. While vitamin C »
Centrum Vitamins
Centrum multivitamin tablets contain essential nutrients in just one daily tablet. It’s one of the many steps you can take to help support a healthy lifestyle. Centrum has different formulations to support specific age and gender needs.
Centrum Advance 50+ products are specifically formulated to meet your needs as you age, with zinc & iron to support cognitive function.
Centrum Men 50+ contains Vitamin D and Magnesium to support normal muscle function.
Centrum Women 50+ contains iron & calcium, Iron has a role in the process of cell division & calcium helps maintain normal bones.
requirements don’t dramatically change with age, it’s important to ensure adequate intake through both diet and supplements if needed. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men.
VITAMIN K
Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. It helps the body use calcium effectively, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin K2, a form of vitamin K found in fermented foods, is particularly beneficial for bone health.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin K is 90 mcg for women and 120 mcg for men. As bone health declines with age, maintaining adequate vitamin K levels can help protect against fractures.
Folate (Vitamin B9) is essential for DNA repair, cell division, and the formation of red and white blood cells. While folate needs do not change significantly with age, certain medications and conditions can lead to deficiencies.
The recommended daily intake for both men and women is 400 mcg. Good sources of folate include leafy green vegetables, beans, and fortified grains.
SEX DIFFERENCES
Women, particularly premenopausal women, need more iron than men due to menstrual blood loss. The recommended intake for women aged 19-50 is 18 mg per day, while men of the same age need only 8 mg. After menopause, women’s iron requirements drop to match men’s.
Women, especially postmenopausal, also have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to lower oestrogen levels, making calcium and vitamin D crucial for bone health.
Men require slightly more magnesium than women. Magnesium is essential for muscle function, nerve transmission, and bone health. The recommended intake for men is 400-420 mg per day, while women need 310-320 mg.
The antioxidant Vitamin E helps protect cells from damage. While both men and women need adequate levels of vitamin E, men’s higher muscle mass may result in increased needs. The recommended intake is 15 mg for both genders.
SUPPLEMENTS
While getting vitamins from food is always preferable, dietary supplements can help
fill gaps when it’s difficult to meet the body’s needs through diet alone. Older adults in particular may benefit from supplements of B12, vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids (which support heart health and reduce inflammation). However, supplements should never replace a balanced diet.
A daily multivitamin can help ensure that older adults receive adequate levels of essential nutrients. Look for multivitamins specifically designed for men or women over 50, which contain adjusted levels of vitamins like B12, D, and calcium.
As we age, our vitamin requirements change, and ensuring we get the right nutrients is crucial for maintaining health and vitality. Men and women have unique needs, with differences in vitamin and mineral requirements based on hormonal changes, muscle mass, and the risk of certain health conditions. While a balanced diet is the best way to meet these needs, supplements can be a helpful tool to fill any nutritional gaps. Regular check-ups and consultations with a healthcare provider can ensure that your vitamin intake supports your overall health, helping you age gracefully and energetically. ■
Joint Effort
While joint replacement surgeries can significantly improve quality of life, it’s always preferable to maintain joint health to avoid surgery for as long as possible
Hip and knee joint replacements have become common solutions for individuals suffering from severe joint pain and mobility issues due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative joint diseases, but while joint replacement surgeries can significantly improve quality of life, it’s always preferable to maintain joint health to avoid surgery for as long as possible.
Maintaining the health of hip and knee joints is critical for reducing the risk of developing degenerative joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis. Here are key strategies to keep your joints healthy and functional.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight places additional stress on the hip and knee joints, increasing wear and tear over time. Studies show that every pound of body weight places approximately four pounds of pressure on the knees. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can significantly reduce the load on your joints and decrease the risk of developing joint problems.
Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity is essential for joint health. Exercises like walking, swimming, cycling, and low-impact aerobics help maintain flexibility and
strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints. Strong muscles support and stabilize the joints, reducing the risk of injury and slowing down degenerative processes. However, high-impact activities like running on hard surfaces or jumping should be minimized, as they can strain the joints.
Stretching and Flexibility Training
Incorporating stretching exercises and flexibility training into your routine helps improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. Activities like yoga and Pilates can enhance flexibility and promote better range of motion in the hips and knees.
Proper Posture and Body Mechanics
Maintaining good posture and using proper body mechanics when lifting, bending, or sitting can prevent undue stress on the hip and knee joints. Avoid sitting for long periods without moving, as prolonged immobility can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
Joint Supplements
Certain supplements, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to support joint health by reducing inflammation and promoting cartilage repair. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
DIAGNOSIS
When joint pain or stiffness becomes persistent, it’s crucial to seek a proper diagnosis to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Common joint problems include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and joint injuries.
Common symptoms of hip and knee joint issues include:
h Pain or aching in the joint, especially after activity or prolonged use.
h Stiffness or reduced range of motion.
h Swelling or inflammation around the joint.
h A clicking or popping sensation when moving the joint.
h Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs.
To accurately diagnose joint problems, healthcare providers typically use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including X-rays, which provide detailed images of the bones and can help detect changes in joint alignment, bone spurs, or joint space narrowing due to arthritis; Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) which offers a more detailed view of soft tissues, including cartilage, tendons, and ligaments, which can be damaged in joint problems; and blood tests, which can help detect inflammatory markers associated with
rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions that affect the joints. Before resorting to surgery, doctors often recommend non-surgical treatments to manage joint pain and improve mobility.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a key component of non-surgical joint care. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve range of motion, and reduce pain. In many cases, regular physical therapy can delay or even prevent the need for surgery.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation in the joints. In more severe cases, doctors may prescribe stronger pain medications or recommend corticosteroid injections to provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain. »
Assistive Devices
For individuals with significant joint pain or instability, assistive devices like braces, canes, or walkers can help reduce the strain on the joints and improve mobility.
Injections
Cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections are used to lubricate the joint and reduce pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. This treatment may be effective in managing symptoms for patients who are not ready for joint replacement surgery.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)
This new non-invasive procedure is used for treatment of plantar fasciitis and tendon problems. The sound waves generated during the treatment stimulate healing for many physical disorders including plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and Achilles tendonitis.
When non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, joint replacement surgery may be recommended. Hip and knee joint replacements are among the most common types of orthopaedic surgeries
performed to relieve pain, restore function, and improve patient mobility and quality of life.
Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery involves removing the damaged or diseased parts of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial components. These components typically consist of a metal or ceramic ball that replaces the femoral head (the upper part of the thigh bone) and a plastic or ceramic socket that replaces the damaged hip socket.
Hip replacement is often recommended for patients with severe hip osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or hip fractures that do not respond to non-surgical treatments. The surgery is particularly effective for reducing pain and improving mobility in patients with advanced joint degeneration.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the surface of the knee joint and replacing them with metal and plastic
components. There are two types of knee replacement surgeries:
Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Involves replacing the entire knee joint. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee, preserving more of the patient’s natural bone and tissue.
Knee replacement is typically recommended for patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other degenerative joint diseases. It is also indicated for patients who experience significant pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility that cannot be managed with conservative treatments.
RECOVERY
Recovery from hip and knee joint replacement surgeries can take several months, depending on the individual’s health, the extent of the surgery, and the post-operative care.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and function in the joint. ■
Walk Away From Joint Pain
At Spire Healthcare, we understand how frustrating it is when joint pain holds you back. That’s why we provide fast access to expert care, when you need it. We use the latest technology and techniques wherever possible to get the best outcome. From replacement surgery to joint injections, you can be sure that you’ll be treated by an expert – every step of the way.
❖ Your choice of expert specialist
❖ Rapid access to tests and scans
❖ Be treated when it’s right for you
Book to see an expert today Search ‘Spire Healthcare’
