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The new Smoking Cessation Service (SCS) will commence on March 10, 2022, allowing community pharmacy contractors to register to provide the service on the NHS Business Services Authority's (NHSBSA) Manage Your Service (MYS) portal from March 1, 2022. This is the second of the two new Advanced services to be introduced this financial year, after the Hypertension case-finding service, which were agreed outcomes from negotiations for Year 3 of the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework. Since the service is an Advanced service, contractors are free to decide if they wish to provide it, as most would be busy completing work for the Pharmacy Quality Scheme 2021/22 alongside winter-related workload, the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee said. Therefore, those who decide to start this service should consider the likelihood of receiving sufficient referrals to make provision of the service worthwhile, the PSNC said.

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has asked the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to convene a 'medicines supply taskforce', following weeks of problems with antibiotics supplies. The NPA's chief executive Mark Lyonette wrote a letter to Steve Barclay this week. It cited the precedent of the HRT Taskforce which this summer brought together representatives from across the supply chain after months of supply problems affecting women. "We strongly believe that this situation calls for a similar response from the government. It is imperative that we resolve this supply situation urgently and therefore we request that you convene a Medicines Supply Taskforce, with all the relevant stakeholders in the supply chain, to urgently discuss and agree practical solutions to address the disruptions to the supply of medicines. HRT and antibiotics are the most visible examples of a wider problem with medicines supply which needs to be addressed." NPA board members Olivier Picard and Reena Barai were among the stakeholders joining meetings convened by the HRT Taskforce this summer.

Lower back pain is a common experience for women of all ages, but the specific causes can differ depending on life stage.By understanding the potential causes of Lower Back Pain at different stages of life, women can make informed decisions about their health and seek appropriate care to manage this common yet complex issue. Here's a breakdown of potential culprits throughout their lifespan: Adolescence and Young Adulthood (12-30 years): Muscle strain and overuse: Repetitive activities like sports, heavy lifting, or poor posture can strain back muscles and ligaments. Menstrual pain: Cramping and inflammation associated with periods can radiate to the lower back. Scoliosis: An abnormal curvature of the spine can contribute to back pain, though often asymptomatic in mild cases. Menopause and Beyond (50+ years): Arthritis: Degenerative joint diseases like osteoarthritis can affect the spine, leading to pain and stiffness. Vertebral fractures: Weakened bones are more susceptible to fractures with falls or minor impacts. Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs.

Magnesium, a mineral superstar, plays a crucial role in over 300 bodily functions, impacting everything from muscle and nerve health to energy production and mood regulation. Aiming for the recommended daily intake (310-420 mg for adults) is essential for optimal well-being. Luckily, incorporating these Magnesium-Rich Foods into your diet can help you reach your goals deliciously. Daily Magnesium Requirements: Men: 400-420 mg Women: 310-320 mg Pregnant women: 350 mg Breastfeeding women: 360 mg Remember: While these foods are great sources of magnesium, a balanced diet incorporating various food groups is essential for optimal health. If you have concerns about meeting your magnesium needs or have underlying health conditions, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. By incorporating these delicious and diverse magnesium-rich foods into your diet, you can power up your body and mind, naturally.