I feel very strongly that an older person, despite some ill health and disability, has the right to have their independence respected. In our increasingly high-tech world, technology can further that aim. And the UK is committed to helping people … Read More
Crack down on anti-MMR parents for children’s sake
I ask myself, do I have to write about this again, and the answer comes back, yes you do because nothing is changing. The anti-vaxxers are having their way and London is seeing the worst drop ever in MMR vaccination … Read More
Ketamine being used as depression drug that produces results within hours
Antidepressants can take a depressingly long time to kick in – a minimum of two weeks but often more like three to four. That waiting time can be disabling for patients, but what if an antidepressant could work in a … Read More
New hip operation method is close to a miracle
Andy Murray’s hip-smoothing operation had a miraculous result – no more pain, no more limping, and he’s back playing Grand Slams. He’s not alone. Currently, 95,000 Brits undergo hip replacements every year. They spend up to five days in hospital, … Read More
How to have a good death – and emotionally prepare yourself and family
It is possible to die well and it is possible to die badly. Having been close to two of each kind of death, it became clear to me that what distinguishes dying well from dying badly is the effect on … Read More
How to spot the signs of male genetic illness
Recently I wrote an item for this page on little-known Klinefelter syndrome (KS) and it created quite a bit of interest, so I thought I’d give you more detail. KS is a genetic condition caused by a random error when a … Read More
No need to fear a flu jab when pregnant
Here’s a problem. All pregnant women are offered the flu jab but less than half take up the offer. Why? Are mums-to-be worried the jab may harm their unborn baby? Well, a new study should reassure the doubters. The benefits of vaccination … Read More
Artificial sweeteners are so bad for our health
Artificial sweeteners have been fooling us. We thought they were better for us than sugar but new research says they’re just as bad, possibly even worse. This shocking news emerged from a study of more than 450,000 middle-aged people started … Read More
How to live a happy and healthy life in your 60s and 70s
First, some good news – I firmly believe that our later years are the best years. The truth is, you can have the time of your life when you reach your 60s and 70s. Work, mortgage and worries about bringing … Read More
Maintaining strength is as important as running or cycling
Years ago I used to struggle to carry the shopping from the supermarket, grumbling with every step, muttering I was nothing more than a beast of burden. Little did I know that every step was doing me good. At least … Read More