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The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's (MHRA) Criminal Enforcement Unit (CEU) has seized a quantity of suspected unlicensed medical products including unlicensed versions of Botox, numbing agents and dermal fillers in Bolton, Greater Manchester. Officers from the MHRA and Greater Manchester Police conducted a raid across nine addresses in Bolton, Westhoughton and Leigh in the early hours of Thursday 13 July 2023, where two women and a man were arrested. Andy Morling, MHRA Deputy Director of Criminal Enforcement said: "Medicines like these are powerful and dangerous in the wrong hands, potentially leading to serious adverse health consequences. The criminals trading in these products are not only breaking the law, they also have no regard for your safety. It is illegal to advertise, sell or supply medicines such as these without the appropriate authorisation. If you see these products, or any other powerful medicines, being sold on social media or elsewhere online, think. It's unlikely to be legitimate. You can help the MHRA take action by reporting concerns to us through our Yellow Card scheme.

Pharmaceutical giant Bristol Myers Squibb has become the first pharmaceutical company in the UK to be accredited as a 'menopause friendly workplace'. The accreditation, awarded by an independent panel of judges, recognises employers who put diversity, inclusion and wellbeing at the centre stage of their business. Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) said it rung in the changes in recognition of the fact that nearly eight of 10 menopausal women are in work and that this is the fastest growing demographic in the workforce. Panel members described BMS UK&I's application as "outstanding" and acknowledged "the huge strides they have made to help normalise the menopause" by fostering an inclusive culture.

Regular health screenings are an essential part of maintaining wellness, and one vital test for women is the Pap smear. Known for its role in early detection of cervical cancer, the Pap smear is a simple yet powerful tool that can potentially save lives. In this blog, we will explore the significance of Pap smears, what the procedure involves, and how often you should get tested. The Importance of Regular Local Screenings Staying on top of your health requires vigilance, and regular local screenings play an indispensable role in this effort. Local screenings, like Pap smears, are essential in detecting potential health issues at their earliest stages, making treatments more effective and improving outcomes. By participating in these routine checks, you not only safeguard your health but also contribute to broader public health efforts by identifying and addressing potential outbreaks or health trends within the community. Whether that's HPV and Pap tests in Singapore or a mammogram in the US, local screenings are crucial for maintaining overall wellness. This is especially true for Pap smears, as they play a significant role in detecting and preventing cervical cancer.

It is common knowledge that human happiness and well-being are dependent on good health. According to The American Lung Association (ALA) though, lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death in men and women as well. Unfortunately, it seems we often overlook the importance of our lungs. We tend to forget that they are nature's natural defensive system designed to keep dirt and germs out. However, there are several crucial things you can do to lower your lung disease risk. Here are some valuable guidelines for keeping your lungs in good shape. 1. AVOID EXPOSURE TO POLLUTION 2. NO SMOKING! 3. KEEP AWAY FROM INFECTIONS 4. TAKE DEEP BREATHS 5. EXERCISE REGULARLY These are the most essential and valuable guidelines that you should follow if you want your respiratory system to be healthy. Along with proper exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and keeping your mind in a healthy vigorous state, they should form the foundation for long and prosperous life. Let's always keep in mind the teachings of ancient Greek philosophers, like Hippocrates, who maintained the axiom "a healthy mind in a healthy body", and we'll always be on the right track.

Statistics show that 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. While this disease can be deadly, it is also preventable. This blog post will discuss six things you need to know about breast cancer prevention. Knowledge is power when it comes to fighting cancer, so read on and learn how you can protect yourself. UNDERGO ROUTINE CHECKUPS One of the first things you can do to prevent breast cancer is to undergo routine checkups. This means going for mammograms and clinical breast exams regularly. In this case, your doctor may even recommend using ultrasound technology to get a clear picture of the breast tissue. Rest assured that your doctor will be able to detect any changes in your breasts and will be able to determine if there is anything to worry about. The earlier you catch any abnormalities, the better your chances of beating cancer. BE AWARE OF YOUR FAMILY HISTORY Another important factor to consider is your family history. If you have close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, your risk may be higher. This is because some forms of breast cancer can be hereditary. As such, it is important to be aware of your family history and to let your doctor know if there is a history of breast cancer in your family. From there, you should discuss your options with your doctor and make sure to get regular screenings. More often than not, early detection is key when it comes to surviving breast cancer which is why family history is so important.

HRA Pharma is celebrating the 1st anniversary of Hana, the first type of daily oral contraception available in the UK without a prescription. The launch of Hana in 2021 followed the historic decision of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to grant a marketing authorisation and marked a significant step forward in the women's contraception category. The company reports that pharmacists have embraced the reclassification and have found merit in using emergency contraception consultations as an opportunity to educate women on their over-the-counter contraception options. Alison Slingsby, innovations project manager at HRA Pharma, commented: "We have been delighted with Hana's reception - within weeks of launch, it quickly became the best-selling mini-pill without prescription, with more than 95 per cent market share, and has maintained this market leading position ever since. We previously had the experience of switching emergency contraceptive ellaOne to a P medicine, Hana is on track to match and eventually exceed the ellaOne volumes.

Dr Rod Hughes sets out how pharmacists can play a pivotal role in steering people with joint pain towards a prevention programme… Joint health supplements are big business in the UK, with millions of pounds spent over the counter every year. People turn to these supplements for various reasons, but most are seeking relief from the symptoms of arthritis, a group of painful long-term conditions thought to affect around 10 million people in this country. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting around eight million people in the UK. The condition is generally age-related, with joint pain and stiffness developing as the cartilage between the bones gradually wears away. OA changes and the inflammation involved causes difficulty moving and considerable pain. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) tends to affect younger people and is caused by the body's immune system attacking the joints. As a nation we tend to ignore our joints until they cause us problems, resulting in an increasing number of people taking long-term analgesics to control the pain or needing surgery to repair knees and hips. Treatment guidelines followed by doctors in the UK recommend that people with arthritis are advised to maintain a healthy weight and keep physically active, while strengthening their muscles and protecting any damaged joints during daily activities.

Alliance Healthcare UK team members Nick Atkins, Swansea Service Centre Manager, and Karl Goodall, Swansea Driver Team Manager, have climbed Pen y Fan in South Wales to support the Alzheimer's Society and raise money for dementia. The pair raised over £1,500, a cause close to Nick's heart, as his mother is a dementia patient. Dementia mainly affects people aged 65 and over, with 65 per cent of the 944,000 individuals living with dementia in the UK being women. Nick and Karl, dressed as 'glamorous grannies' with wigs, tights, and dresses, completed the mountain trek in six hours, carrying an Alliance Healthcare medicines cool box weighing over 35 kg. Alzheimer's Society supports people with dementia and their carers through national care and research efforts. Alzheimer's Society Cymru is the sole UK dementia charity funding both biomedical and care research.

New research shows that lifelong excess weight almost doubles a woman's risk of developing womb cancer. The findings of the study were published in 'BMC Medicine'. The study from the University of Bristol is one of the first to find that for every fiver extra BMI units, a woman's risk of womb (endometrial) cancer is almost doubled (an increase of 88 per cent). This is higher than most previous studies have suggested and reflects lifelong weight status rather than a snapshot in time like most other studies. Five BMI units is the difference between the overweight category and the obese category, or of a 5'5 adult woman being two stones heavier. The international study looked at genetic samples from around 120,000 women from Australia, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Sweden, the UK, and the USA of which around 13,000 had womb cancer. This large statistical analysis is one of the first studies of its kind to look at the effect of lifelong greater BMI on womb cancer risk.

HayMax, manufacturer of organic, drug-free allergen barrier balms for hay fever, dust, and pet allergies, has recently won the 2023 Global 100 awards. The HayMax balm, applied around nostril rims and eye bones, is an innovative allergen blocker against pollen, dust, and pet allergens entering the body. Independent university research confirms it traps over a third of pollen, along with dust mites and pet dander, before they enter the body, according to HayMax. The drug-free balm is Soil Association-certified organic, comprising 100 per cent natural ingredients. Safe for children, pregnant, and breastfeeding women, it holds the Vegetarian Society Approved trademark. This award has come as a complete surprise to us at HayMax," said HayMax MD, Max Wiseberg. "Being held in such high regard through this global recognition is truly delightful." "The Global 100 aims to offer readers insight into firms that excel in their chosen specialties, and the award underscores hard work and innovation of various companies," said its organisers.

We all know that clothes can make us look and feel good. But did you know that they can also be used to relieve some common health issues? That's right - by choosing the right fabrics and materials, you can help alleviate conditions like skin irritations, back pain, and even headaches. So the next time you're feeling under the weather, reach for your wardrobe first - it just might hold the key to feeling better. COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR DIABETES Compression socks for diabetes have become an invaluable tool for people with diabetes to keep their lower legs healthy. Wearing compression socks can help increase circulation in diabetic patients, which is incredibly important for the health of their feet and ankles. Additionally, if the patient suffers from swelling or poor blood circulation - compression socks can help reduce those negative side effects. As a result of wearing these specialty socks, many diabetics are kept more comfortable and experience less fatigue in their legs throughout the day. With many different sizes and varieties available - it's easy for anyone suffering from diabetes to find the perfect pair of compression socks to suit their specific needs and lifestyle. There are various diabetic stockings designed for men and women. Take the time to find the right pair for you.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)'s independent committee has called for more research to ensure liposuction for treatment of chronic lipoedema is safe and effective enough for use on the NHS. Lipoedema is more prevalent in women and very rarely affects men. It is characterised by an abnormal, usually symmetrical, accumulation of fat in the legs, hips, buttocks, and occasionally arms. It is a separate condition to obesity and lymphoedema. The cause of lipoedema is unknown, but hormonal changes, weight gain and genetics are thought to be involved. The size and shape of legs, and the resultant mobility issues and pain, can have a profoundly negative effect on quality of life, and physical and mental health. The interventional procedures advisory committee reviewed evidence from several sources, including eight before-and-after studies. The committee was informed that several different liposuction techniques are used and that they may have different safety and efficacy profiles.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has included Tibolone 2.5mg tablets (Livial) and Prasterone 6.5mg pessaries (Intrarosa) to the list of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). It has updated the June 2023 Drug Tariff (Part XVI) to include these additional HRT medicines for which patients will be able to purchase an HRT PPC. "HRT is the replacement of female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone in women to control symptoms of the menopause. Some medicines that are converted or break down into oestrogen, progestogen or androgen hormones are prescribed for relief of menopausal symptoms. For the purposes of the HRT PPC these are included within this definition of HRT," said DHSC.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised self-isolation for people diagnosed with monkeypox to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Household members are at the highest risk of becoming infected from a case within their house. The new guidance advises people with monkeypox infection to take steps to try and limit transmission within the household. "Monkeypox infection mainly spreads between people through direct, skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Infection can also be spread via contaminated objects such as linen and soft furnishings," said UKHSA. The guidance advises that, where possible, cases are encouraged to sleep and eat in a separate room and use a separate bathroom to their household if possible. Good hygiene measures, to follow at all times, have also been set out. It suggests, "Where the use of a separate room isn't possible, cases should avoid physical contact and keep at least three steps (one metre) away from all household members. It is particularly important that they avoid close contact with young children, pregnant women and immunosuppressed people as they may be at higher risk of serious illness."

Despite being more connected than ever, the majority of Europeans are experiencing feelings of loneliness. The STADA Health Report 2024, released on Monday, revealed that over half (52 per cent) of Europeans "always, often or occasionally" feel lonely. Although the younger generation reports the highest levels of overall happiness, they are the ones most affected by this current loneliness epidemic. Nearly two-thirds (63 per cent) of Europeans aged 18 to 35 reported feeling lonely, compared to 41 percent of those aged 55 and older - according to the report, based on a survey of over 46,000 respondents aged 18 to 99 across 32 countries. Extensive screen time is contributing to increased loneliness among younger people. Europeans under the age of 34 are much more likely to spend long hours on their devices (41 per cent) than those aged 35-54 (22 per cent) and those over 55 (13 per cent). The survey found that people who spend a "long" or "fair" amount of time on social media were significantly more prone to feelings of loneliness compared to those who restrict their screen time. Moreover, extensive screen time was also associated with more intense feelings of loneliness.

Drugmaker Viatris said on Sunday (October 1) it had reached agreements to divest some of its businesses for a total of about £2.9 billion. Viatris said its move to divest some of its businesses is part of its long-term strategy to streamline focus on three core therapeutic areas - ophthalmology, gastroenterology and dermatology. The company has received an offer of about $2.17 billion (£1.78 billion) for almost all of its over-the-counter drug business from France-based Cooper Consumer Health. Viatris will retain rights for erectile dysfunction drug Viagra, nasal spray Dymista and select OTC drugs within certain markets. Separately, the drugmaker said it has agreed to sell its women's healthcare business to Spanish pharmaceutical company Insud Pharma, while its active pharmaceutical ingredients business in India will be sold to Iquest Enterprises. Both divestitures would result in about $1.2 billion (£987 million) in proceeds.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that there has been a continued increase in cases of whooping cough (pertussis) across England since the start of this year. According to new data published by the agency on Thursday (7 March), 553 new cases of whooping cough were confirmed in January alone, compared with 858 cases for the whole of last year (2023). The country is witnessing a surge in whooping cough cases after a prolonged period of low case numbers, attributed to restrictions and reduced social interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic. England recorded the highest number of whooping cough cases in 2016, recording 5,949 cases. As the ongoing rise coincides with a steady decline in the vaccination rates among pregnant women and children, UKHSA has strongly encouraged mums-to-be to get the maternal pertussis vaccine so that their young baby is protected against this serious disease.

A new report, published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), has revealed worrying statistics about the mental health of children and young people in England. The report is based on NHS survey on Mental Health of Children and Young People in England 2023, which showed that one in five children and young individuals aged eight to 25 were grappling with probable mental disorders. The report highlighted that 20.3 per cent of eight to 16-year-olds showed signs of mental distress in 2023. Among 17 to 19-year-olds, the proportion rose to 23.3 per cent, while in 20 to 25-year-olds, it stood at 21.7 per cent. The rates of probable mental disorders were similar for boys and girls, while for 17- to 25-year-olds, rates were twice as high for young women than young men.

Healthcare professionals in the UK are being advised to avoid prescribing the migraine and antiseizure medication topiramate, commonly known by the brand name Topamax, to women and girls unless they fulfil the requirements of a Pregnancy Prevention Programme. This guidance follows new safety measures introduced by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) following a major safety review, which highlighted a potential increased risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities in children exposed to topiramate during pregnancy. The Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) evaluated studies that examined the risks associated with using topiramate during pregnancy. These studies indicated that children born to mothers who took topiramate during pregnancy had an approximately 2 to 3 times higher risk of intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Based on CHM's recommendations, the MHRA now advises that topiramate should not be prescribed for treating epilepsy during pregnancy unless there is no suitable alternative.

It has been discovered that chemicals and preservatives used in the preservation of canned meat, fish and even fruits, like apples, to give them longer shelf life are toxic to the body and help fibroid growth in women. Also, it has equally been revealed by fertility experts that fertility boosting medications or anything that is high in estrogen will cause fibroid to grow.

"Advances in scientific research have deepened our understanding of the intricate relationship between genetics and cancer. The field of oncogenetics has emerged, shedding light on how genetic factors influence cancer development, progression and response to treatment..." Learn More Here:https://dr-sanjoy-mandal.blogspot.com/2023/06/exploring-role-of-genetics-in-cancer.html