North America
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Smell and taste loss in COVID-19 explained
Scientists have announced new insights into how COVID-19 infection can cause loss of taste and smell. Read more
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Antibiotic risk of inflammatory bowel disease
Taking antibiotics, especially those with greater spectrum of microbial coverage, could increase the risk of new-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, a new study claims today (18 August 2020). Read more
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Medical marijuana for sickle cell patients means fewer hospitalisations
Sickle cell disease patients who take medical marijuana for pain have fewer hospital visits than others, according to a new US study. Read more
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SARS-COV-2 strains classified – and G is dominant
There are now at least six strains of the COVID-19 virus – but it remains vulnerable to vaccines, according to a major new analysis. Read more
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Mask-wearing enforced as local lockdowns spread
Tough rules on face-mask wearing come into force today in England – with final details only released yesterday morning. Read more
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Plant protein diet can reduce mortality risk
People should consume more protein – particularly plant protein – to help reduce mortality risk for a number of diseases, says a new study published today. Read more
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Weekly chocolate good for the heart?
Eating chocolate at least once a week is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease because it helps to keep the vascular system healthy, a new US study claims today. Read more
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UK, China, USA report vaccine hopes
The UK’s Oxford-based vaccine continues to show promise as do vaccines developed in other parts of the world, according to a series of announcements yesterday. Read more
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Gum disease ‘increases gastric and oesophageal cancer’ risk
People with periodontal disease may be at increased risk of developing oesophageal and gastric cancer, researchers say today. Read more
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ICUs seeing improved survival from virus
Intensive care units successfully cut mortality from the COVID-19 virus in the early stages of the virus, according to a major new analysis published today. Read more