Research led by investigators at Mass General Brigham suggests that the health benefits of more aggressive blood pressure control outweigh concerns about overtreating people with high blood pressure readings. Results of the simulation study are published in Annals of Internal Medicine.
The study used data from the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) trial, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), and other published literature to simulate lifetime health outcomes — including heart attack, stroke, and heart failure — for patients whose systolic blood pressure targets were set at

31 minutes agoShareSaveKaty PrickettBBC News, CambridgeshireShareSaveFamily handoutsA hospital trust has paid a “six-figure settlement package” in the case of nine patients following an outbreak of a bacterial infection linked to its water supply.Three patients died and two of these cases were as a result of complications connected to the outbreak at Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, according to lawyers.Lung transplant patients Karen Starling, 54, of Ipswich, Suffolk, died in February 2020, and Anne Martinez, of Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, died in December 2020.Eilish Midlane, the hospital’s chief executive, said: “Lessons have been learnt [and] regulations revised to seek to avoid a similar occurrence in the UK.”The trust denied liability but resolved each of the claims in out-of-court settlements, which were secured following a civil claim pursued as a group action.Family handoutSix further patients suffered serious complications that continue to affect them following the outbreak of Mycobacterium abscessus (M.abscessus), according to legal firm Irwin Mitchell.Lawyers said the “six-figure settlement package” was agreed in connection with the nine cases.M.abscessus is a bacterial infection which is a particular risk to people who are vulnerable and immunosuppressed, such as lung transplant patients.Solicitor Jatinder Paul said patients were admitted to “this world-renowned hospital… in the hope of a better life”.”While the surgical care itself hasn’t been an issue, the events that unfolded have been devastating for them and their families,” he said. He added large public buildings with complex water systems, such as hospitals, can be at an increased risk of waterborne contamination.Inquests were held in 2022 into the deaths of Mrs Starling and Mrs Martinez, who both underwent double-lung transplants in 2019 and died the following year. Keith Morton, the assistant coroner for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, found that their M. abscessus was a hospital-acquired infection.In a joint statement, Mrs Martinez’s sons Tony, 43, and Andrew 38, said: “We hoped that when mum underwent her transplant it would be the start of a brighter future.”Even six years on from mum’s transplant, it’s difficult to comprehend the events that unfolded.”Mrs Starling’s husband Derek, said: “Losing Karen in such circumstances is something our family will never truly come to terms with.”PA MediaMs Midlane said her “thoughts go out to the patients and families involved”.”We recognise this [settlement] has been possible due to the cooperative approach adopted by all parties, for which we are very grateful.”Providing safe and compassionate patient care is our top priority and as part of our investigation in 2019, we worked tirelessly to investigate, understand, manage and control the outbreak.”As acknowledged by Irwin Mitchell, we acted appropriately and complied with all the relevant regulations.She said lessons had been learned at a local and national level.”Clinicians at Royal Papworth Hospital are now at the forefront of research into the disease,” she added. More on this storyRelated internet links

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

Reproductive timing matters when it comes to aging and age-related disease. In a study now online at eLife¸ Buck researchers determine that girls who go through puberty (the onset of menstruation) before the age of 11 or women who give birth before the age of 21 have double the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart failure and obesity and quadruple the risk of developing severe metabolic disorders. The study also reveals that later puberty and childbirth are genetically associated with longer lifespan, lower frailty, slower epigenetic aging and reduced risk of age-related diseases, including type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
Buck professor Pankaj Kapahi, PhD, senior author of the study says the public health implications of the research are significant. “Even though women are routinely asked about their menstrual and childbirth history when they receive medical care, this information has rarely factored into the care they receive outside of OB/GYN,” he says. “These risk factors, whether positive or negative, clearly have significant influence on a variety of age-related diseases and should be considered in the larger context of overall health.”
The research was based on one of the most comprehensive analyses to date, using regression analysis on nearly 200,000 women in the UK Biobank to confirm genetic associations. “We identified 126 genetic markers that mediate the effects of early puberty and childbirth on aging,” said postdoctoral fellow Yifan Xiang, MD, who led the research. “Many of these markers are involved in well-known longevity pathways, such as IGF-1, growth hormone, AMPK and mTOR signaling, key regulators of metabolism and aging.”
Genetic associations for antagonistic pleiotropy in humans
Evolution is based on natural selection acting on traits early in life to encourage reproduction and survival of the species. The antagonistic pleiotropy theory of aging suggests that traits beneficial in the young can have negative effects later in life. “Our study provides some of the strongest human evidence for this theory,” Kapahi says. “We show that genetic factors favoring early reproduction come with the significant cost later in life including accelerated aging and disease. It makes sense that the very factors that help enhance survival of the offspring may lead to detrimental consequences for the mother.”
The role of BMI in aging and disease risk
Kapahi says the study highlights the role of Body Mass Index (BMI) as a critical mediator of this process, finding that early reproductive events contribute to a higher BMI, which in turn increases the risk of metabolic disease. “One can envisage that enhancing the ability to absorb nutrients would benefit the offspring but if nutrients are plentiful then it can enhance the risk of obesity and diabetes.”
Implications for public health and basic science

Kapahi says understanding the long-term impact of reproductive timing allows for the development of personalized healthcare strategies that could help mitigate the risks associated with early puberty and early childbirth, adding that lifestyle modifications, metabolic screenings and tailored dietary recommendations could improve long-term health in women. He says taking reproductive timing into account is currently relevant based on research that shows the age at which girls in the US begin menstruating has dropped by about three months per decade since the 1970s. No specific causes for the phenomena have been identified, but research suggests obesity may play a role.
While updated research guidelines call for the use of both sexes in preclinical research in mice, Kapahi says this current study still challenges traditional experimental design, noting that most disease models use virgin female mice, which may not accurately represent real-world aging patterns.
“If evolution has shaped us to prioritize early reproduction at the cost of aging, how can we leverage this knowledge to extend healthspan in modern society? Kapahi asks. “While we cannot change our genetic inheritance, understanding these genetic tradeoffs empowers us to make informed choices about health, lifestyle and medical care.” The study also identifies several genetic pathways that can be manipulated to optimize health for mothers as well as her offspring Kapahi says.
Other Buck researchers involved in the study include: Vineeta Tanwar, Parminder Singh, and Lizellen La Follette.
Acknowledgments: This research was supported by Hevolution Foundation (PK), National Institute of Health grant R01AG068288 and R01AG045835 (PK), Larry L. Hillblom Foundation (PK), and Larry L. Hillblom Foundation (PS).

Allergic reactions to foods such as pine nuts and goats milk happen frequently enough they may need warning labels, say experts. Food packaging in the UK and EU already lists the most common allergens for people to be aware of, such as egg, peanuts and sesame. But at least four more could be added to the mandatory risk list, according to an article in the journal Clinical & Experimental Allergy.Lead investigator Dr Dominique Sabouraud-Leclerc from the Allergy Vigilance Network said evidence of increased reactions to a wider range of foods suggested it was time to review the list of foods with mandatory labels and consider adding “at least the most severe of these emerging food allergens”.The foods the researchers say should be added to the list now are: goat or sheep milkbuckwheatpeas and lentilspine nutsAnd other emerging ones to keep a watch on are:alpha-gal, found in red meat such as beef or lambkiwibeehive products, such as wax and pollen, as well as honeyappleThe recommendation comes from experts who looked at food-induced anaphylaxis cases reported in Europe between 2002–2023.Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that is a medical emergency. Symptoms, such as swollen lips and throat and difficulty breathing, can happen very quickly. People who know they are allergic to certain foods can carry an adrenalin auto-injector pen in case they need urgent treatment. The researchers analysed nearly 3,000 cases and 413, including two deaths, were caused by one of the eight emerging food allergies.Based on their frequency, severity, recurrence, and potential for hidden exposure, the top four new ones are goat’s and sheep’s milk, buckwheat, peas and lentil, and pine nuts. That would put them in the same list as the current 14:cereals containing gluten – wheat, rye, barley, oats.crustaceans – crabs, prawns, lobsterseggsfishpeanutssoybeansmilknuts – almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pecan nuts, brazil nuts, pistachio, macadamiacelerymustardsesame seedsSulphur dioxide and sulphites used as a preservative (at concentrations of more than 10mg/kg or 10mg/L in terms of total sulphur dioxide)lupin (an ingredient in some pastas and baked goods)molluscs – mussels, oysters, squid, snailsThe Food Standards Agency says it recognises that there are a significant number of foods that can cause allergies or intolerances. “This is why pre-packed foods must list all ingredients, why food businesses must provide clear information about allergens and why we encourage consumers to speak up about their allergies,” said spokesman Dr James Cooper.

A new study delving into the genetic drivers of a rare and aggressive childhood cancer called Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor (MPNST) has revealed metabolic frailties in the cancer cells that might be exploited to improved treatments for patients.
MPNST is a rare and deadly childhood cancer, which mainly affects teenagers and young adults. These tumors grow quickly, spread easily, and don’t respond well to current treatments. Metastasis is the leading cause of death in MPNST and there currently are no targeted treatments for metastatic disease.
The study, led by University of Iowa researchers Eric Taylor, PhD, professor of molecular physiology and biophysics, and Rebecca Dodd, PhD, associate professor of internal medicine, identifies a specific metabolic pathway that is critical for MPNST cells’ survival and growth, which could potentially be targeted with future therapies.
Targeting cancer metabolism to slow tumor progression
To better understand these tumors, the UI researchers used gene editing to create new research models that closely match the cancer-driving mutations found in patients. Using these models, they then applied state-of-the-art genomic and metabolomic tools to map the metabolic pathways that fuel tumor growth in MPNST.
The study, published in Science Advances, found that these cancers rely on a key metabolic pathway to help them survive oxidative stress and drive tumor growth. This pathway, known as the Pentose Phosphate Pathway (PPP), metabolizes sugar to produce a critical antioxidant molecule that the cancer cells require to combat oxidative stress. When the researchers blocked the PPP, the tumors grew more slowly and were more vulnerable to chemotherapy.
“This is the first time this specific metabolic pathway has been linked to MPNST tumor growth, making it a completely new target for therapy in this cancer type,” Dodd says. “It opens the door to treatment strategies that haven’t been explored before and could lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes for patients who urgently need new options.”
The highly collaborative study combined Dodd’s expertise in cancer biology with Taylor’s expertise in metabolism. The lead author was UI graduate student Gavin McGivney, PhD, from Bayard in Guthrie County, Iowa, who was co-mentored by Dodd and Taylor. McGivney graduated from the UI Cancer Biology graduate program in 2024, and is now a postdoctoral scholar at University of Chicago. Dodd and Taylor are both members of UI Health Care Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Taylor is a member of the UI Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center.
In addition to Dodd, Taylor, and McGivney, the research team also included UI researchers in the Departments of Internal Medicine, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, and Radiation Oncology at the UI Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the University of Toronto, were also part of the team.
The research was funded in part by grants from the Children’s Tumor Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, the American Heart Association, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the American Cancer Society through Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center.

30 minutes agoShareSavePhilippa RoxbyHealth reporterShareSaveGetty ImagesTreatment for millions of people with type 2 diabetes should be more personalised, with greater access to newer medicines, including weight-loss drugs, the healthcare assessment body for England, Wales and Northern Ireland has recommended.It calls the move “the biggest shake-up” in type 2 diabetes care in a decade.Offering more people the new drugs will prevent complications such as heart disease, strokes and kidney damage, reduce costs to the NHS and potentially save lives, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) says. Around 4.6 million people in the UK are diagnosed with diabetes – of these 90% have type 2, with another 1.3 million likely to be undiagnosed.Having type 2 diabetes means there is too much glucose or sugar in the blood. This makes strokes, heart attacks, heart failure and other health conditions much more of a risk. It is now so common that 10% of the NHS budget goes towards treating it.NICE, which produces guidance for the NHS on how to give patients the best care, recommends a move away from a “one size fits all” approach and towards more personalised treatment.It is calling for newer diabetes medicines called SGLT-2 inhibitors, which protect the heart and kidneys as well as lowering blood sugar levels, to become the first-choice treatment for all diabetes patients. Around 2.3 million people will be eligible for these drugs.Some 22,000 lives could be saved if 90% of all diabetes patients were prescribed them, NICE says, but access is not equal across the UK. There is evidence that women, older people and black people are less likely to be prescribed them.”There is some urgency to find ways to increase the uptake of SGLT-2 inhibitors because if we were to achieve perfect uptake, the nation would be significantly healthier,” said Dr Waqaar Shah, chair of the guideline committee.Only one in five people with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease are currently prescribed the medicines.Prescribing the tablets to more people would particularly benefit those living in poorer areas and ethnic minorities, NICE says.Under the guidance, which is still at a draft stage and needs to go through a consultation, around 750,000 more people with type 2 diabetes will be offered GLP-1 agonists such as semaglutide and liraglutide, which have become very popular as the drugs contained in weight-loss jabs.Adults with cardiovascular disease and some who develop type 2 before they are 40 are the groups recommended to be offered them.These drugs can be used both to lower blood sugar levels and to support some people with weight loss.Prof Jonathan Benger, deputy chief executive and chief medical officer at NICE, said the updated guidance was “a significant evolution” in type 2 diabetes treatment which could help prevent heart attacks, strokes and other serious complications before they happen.”This guidance means more people will be offered medicines, where it is right to do so, to reduce their future risk of ill health,” he added.The guidelines are part of a long-term plan by the NHS in England to reduce health inequalities and focus on preventing ill health in the first place.The charity Diabetes UK said the announcement propelled type 2 diabetes treatments “into the 21st century”.”These guidelines could go a long way to easing the burden of living with this relentless condition, as well as helping to address inequities in type 2 diabetes treatments and outcomes,” said Douglas Twenefour, head of clinical at the charity.

11 hours agoShareSaveJulie McCulloughBBC News NIShareSaveBBCChildren with short-sightedness are being stopped from using NHS vouchers to help pay for new treatment unlike in other parts of the UK, Northern Ireland optometrists have said.The chair of Optometry NI, Brian McKeown, said it was “frustrating” and that the rules should change, while Faith Donaldson, a County Down-based optometrist, said advances in medicine can now “slow down the progressions of myopia”.However, the Department of Health said the “evidence is not yet sufficient to support funded use”.Myopia, which is the medical term for short-sightedness, is an extremely common eye condition that affects about one in three people in the UK.Children can use NHS vouchers, worth between £40 and £60, towards the cost of glasses to help them see more clearly but cannot use them for special glasses or contact lenses that help to treat the myopia.The treatment – known as myopia management – can slow or stop the short-sightedness from getting worse.Ms Donaldson said she feels obligated to tell families about myopia management.The College of Optometrists has said “myopia management options should be recommended when it is clinically indicated and in the patient’s best interest”. Danny, 13, wears contact lenses that treat myopia and has seen for himself the difference they can make. He said he noticed his vision getting worse while wearing glasses, which was confirmed by eye tests.But starting myopia management slowed down that progression. “My next eye test after I got my contacts the first time, you noticed there was quite a big stop or little to no difference.”Danny’s sister is also short-sighted. Their mum Emma McManus said it was a “no-brainer” to pay privately for both of them to have myopia management.She said they would do whatever they could to “slow that (myopia) down, save their eyesight”. It costs about £30 a month for Danny’s contacts and about £300 in total for her daughter’s glasses, which treat the condition.Ms McManus knew that she could not use the NHS voucher towards myopia management but was not aware it could be used in other parts of the UK.She feels that puts families here at a disadvantage.”That could make the difference between another household opting into the myopia management or having to say: ‘No I just can’t do that.'”I think that is just so unfair.”Brian McKeown, the chair of Optometry NI which represents all optometrists in Northern Ireland, said the “evidence is definitely growing” for myopia management.He said he has patients in his own practice who have seen the benefit and that it was “frustrating” that people in the rest of the UK can use vouchers towards the treatment.”We feel there should be a change,” he added.Mr McKeown said a paper has been submitted to the body that makes decisions on funding matters like these and they are waiting for an official response. The Department of Health said it “continues to monitor the situation, and examine the available evidence, but to date the position remains unchanged”.It said officials have met with Optometry NI and assured “the profession that the Department of Health continues to take an interest in the subject”.What are the signs of short-sightedness? Difficulty reading words from a distance, such as reading the whiteboard at school Sitting close to the TV or computer, or holding a mobile phone or tablet close to the face Getting headaches Rubbing the eyes a lot

Microbes, or microorganisms, are all around us and play an important role in bodily functions. MSU researchers found that microbes can also impact brain development. This work is significant because modern obstetric practices like peripartum antibiotic use and Cesarean delivery disturb the microbiome of mothers and newborns.New research from Michigan State University finds that microbes play an important role in shaping early brain development, specifically in a key brain region that controls stress, social behavior, and vital body functions.The study, published in Hormones and Behavior, used a mouse model to highlight how natural microbial exposure not only impacts brain structure immediately after birth but may even begin influencing development while still in the womb. A mouse model was chosen because mice share significant biological and behavioral similarities with humans and there are no other alternatives to study the role of microbes on brain development.
This work is of significance because modern obstetric practices, like peripartum antibiotic use and Cesarean delivery, disrupt maternal microbes. In the United States alone, 40% of women receive antibiotics around childbirth and one-third of all births occur via Cesarean section.
“At birth, a newborn body is colonized by microbes as it travels through the birth canal. Birth also coincides with important developmental events that shape the brain. We wanted to further explore how the arrival of these microbes may affect brain development,” said Alexandra Castillo Ruiz, lead author of the study and assistant professor in the MSU Department of Psychology.
The research team focused on a brain region called the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), which plays a central role in regulating stress, blood pressure, water balance, and even social behavior. Their previous work had shown that mice raised without microbes, or germ-free mice, had more dying neurons in the PVN during early development. The new study set out to determine whether this increased cell death translated to changes in neuron number in the long run, and if any effects could be caused by the arrival of microbes at birth or if they began in the womb via signals from maternal microbes.
To find out, the researchers used a cross-fostering approach. Germ-free newborn mice were placed with mothers that had microbes and compared them to control groups. When the brains of these mice were examined just three days after birth, results were striking: All mice gestated by germ-free mothers had fewer neurons in the PVN, regardless of whether they received microbes after birth. They also found that germ-free adult mice had fewer neurons in the PVN.
“Our study shows that microbes play an important role in sculpting a brain region that is paramount for body functions and social behavior. In addition, our study indicates that microbial effects start in the womb via signaling from maternal microbes,” said Dr. Castillo-Ruiz.
Rather than shunning our microbes, we should recognize them as partners in early life development,” said Dr. Castillo-Ruiz. “They’re helping build our brains from the very beginning.”

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