Post Archive by Year

When a premature baby is put in an incubator it is traumatic for both the ­parents and child. Mum and dad feel they cannot get close enough to bond, and the baby misses out on skin-to-skin contact that is ­important in the … Read More

I always suspected the side effects of statins, like muscle aches and pains, were exaggerated. And now a study has thrown light on how we experience the side effects of drugs. It’s not what you’d expect, according to a recent report … Read More

I recently put a newsflash on my page about the dangers of red meat. Here are the details. I for one would miss red meat, in particular roast lamb, if I was forced to go without. But that day may be … Read More

I was over the moon when a new HIV/AIDS treatment was found to prevent people who were disease-free – but could be at risk – from getting the HIV infection. The end of AIDS is in sight, I thought. Well maybe, but … Read More

For your peace of mind when heading abroad you need a good first aid kit. It should contain lots of sunscreen, insect repellent with 20% or more of DEET, and a variety of dressings, blister remedies and bandages, motion sickness … Read More

Could the obesity epidemic be all down to poor sleep? Experts believe a good night’s shut-eye is as important a factor as any other in ensuring people control their weight and waistlines. Disrupted sleep patterns are a common feature of modern living … Read More

The dangers of Lyme disease were covered on this page in March last year but I’m writing about it again to urge you to seek immediate treatment if you ­suspect you have it. If not treated promptly it can become … Read More

I could have shaken Nancy Reagan when she spearheaded the “Just Say No” anti-drug campaign in the US. How useful is that? Unrealistic. Authoritarian. Unsympathetic. Uncaring. Totally out of touch with the real world. I’m totally against drug laws that can lead … Read More

I’ll keep on saying fad diets are dangerous till I’m blue in the face. Now one of the country’s most eminent and sensible authorities on nutrition and health has spoken out against them. Susan Lanham-New is Professor of nutritional sciences … Read More

Is it ever right to make smokers and obese people wait for treatment on the NHS? I have to admit I’m ambivalent. On the one hand I believe in free medical care for all, but on the other I know that … Read More