Study shows benefits of prostate cancer screening for over-50s
A major European study has found that offering routine prostate cancer screening to all men over 50 could save thousands of lives. The 23-year trial of 162,000 men across eight countries showed that regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests reduced prostate cancer deaths by 13%, matching the life-saving impact of breast and bowel cancer screening. The findings strengthen calls for the UK to introduce a national prostate screening programme. Experts say earlier detection allows curative treatment before symptoms appear, though some warn of overdiagnosis and overtreatment of harmless tumours. Advances such as MRI scanning and precision surgery now reduce these risks. Prostate cancer is the UK’s most common cancer, causing more than 12,000 deaths a year. Health officials will review the results next month, and advocates say the evidence is now overwhelming. Campaigners urge government action to protect men’s health, noting that high-risk groups such as black men and those with family histories remain especially vulnerable.
Teenagers overwhelmed by pressure of 'perfect' Christmas
A new survey by the Children’s Society reveals that over half of UK teenagers (56%) feel overwhelmed by expectations surrounding Christmas. The poll of nearly 2,000 young people aged 13 to 16 found that school deadlines, social media pressure, and family expectations are major stress factors. Almost a third cited looming exams, while 28% said constant exposure to 'perfect' online images of gifts, parties, and families made them feel inadequate. One in five admitted finding it hardest to 'look happy' when they didn’t feel it. Although some teens found social media uplifting, many said it made them feel worse, especially when reminded of holidays or lifestyles they couldn’t afford. Many wanted less pressure to perform and more understanding from adults. Mark Russell, CEO of the Children’s Society, said many young people feel crushed by constant demands, urging greater access to early mental health and wellbeing support. The charity’s mission is to help teenagers find peace, perspective, and the true joy of Christmas.
Spain / France: ‘game-changer for women’s health’
A groundbreaking approach to diagnosing endometriosis offers potential to revolutionise research and treatment of the disease. Affecting one in ten women, endometriosis often goes undiagnosed for years. Traditionally, diagnosis involves invasive procedures like laparoscopy. However, scientists in Spain and France have developed a method of analysing blood-derived stem cells (MenSCs) directly from menstrual samples. This preserves the cells' molecular integrity, allowing researchers to study endometriosis more accurately. By using a technique common in cancer diagnosis, researchers achieved an 81% accuracy rate in distinguishing endometriosis patients from healthy individuals. This non-invasive method, developed by endogene.bio and collaborators, could reduce diagnosis time from years to weeks. The study has gained attention from the pharmaceutical industry, as potentially it could transform endometriosis management and patient care. The co-founder of endogene.bio says: ‘This world-first approach to endometriosis research and diagnosis is truly game-changing for women’s health.’
Spain: trauma and anger continue, one year after Valencia floods
In October 2024, devastating floods swept through Spain’s Valencia region, leaving 229 people dead and countless others traumatised. Among the victims were Miguel and Sara, a father and daughter who perished together while trying to save their car from rising waters. For their widow and mother, Toñi García, the pain remains raw – just one example of the human cost behind the natural disaster known as the Dana. One year later, Valencia continues to rebuild both its cities and its spirit. Memorials honour those lost, while reconstruction and new safety protocols aim to prevent a recurrence. Yet grief and trauma linger, especially among children who now fear the rain which once brought destruction, and anger at the handling of the Dana on the day it struck refuses to fade. As towns like Paiporta rise from the ruins, residents are striving for resilience and renewal.
