North America
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Opioids and macrolides ‘safe’ in pregnancy
No links have been found between taking prescription opioids or macrolide antibiotics during pregnancy and an increased risk of major birth defects, two new studies report today. Read more
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Caffeine link to reduced heart failure risk
Researchers have reported evidence of an association between caffeine drinking and heart health. Read more
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Doctors warn of COVID-19 re-infection risk
It may be possible to have two separate episodes of serious COVID-19 infection because of waning immunity, doctors have warned. Read more
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Atrial fibrillation deaths higher in rich European countries
The wealthiest European countries report higher atrial fibrillation death rates than the poorest – and women are more likely than men to die from the condition, according to the first study of its kind, published today. Read more
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Nanobodies "promising" against COVID-19 infection
Nanobodies have been developed that can prevent the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus from entering human cells – even if the virus mutates, several research teams have announced. Read more
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COVID-19 immunity could last at least eight months
Almost all COVID-19 survivors have the immune cells necessary to fight re-infection for at least eight months after the initial infection, according to a US study. Read more
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Cord stem cell hope for severe COVID-19
There is significant benefit from transfusing umbilical-cord derived stem cells to patients with severe COVID-19, US researchers reported yesterday. Read more
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Genetic variants increase prostate risk for those of African ancestry
Black men have genetic variants that put them at greater risk of developing prostate cancer than white or Asian men, a study published last night has revealed. Read more
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No benefit of greater transfusion for prems – US study
There is no benefit to raising the red blood threshold for transfusions to very low birthweight babies, according to an analysis published last night. Read more
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COVID-19 not passed to foetus
Pregnant women with COVID-19 do not infect their foetus – but also do not pass on very many antibodies, researchers have found. Read more