Singles Awareness Day: Celebrating Independence, Self-Worth and Living Life Your Way

While the world is awash with roses, heart-shaped chocolates and candlelit dinners in mid-February, 15th February quietly marks something a little different: Singles Awareness Day.

Far from being a gloomy afterthought to Valentine’s Day, it has grown into a celebration of independence, friendship, resilience and self-love. Whether you are single by choice, circumstance, or simply focusing on other priorities, this day offers a chance to reframe the narrative.

What Is Singles Awareness Day?

Singles Awareness Day (often shortened to SAD — though thankfully in an ironic way!) takes place on 15th February. Originally seen as a tongue-in-cheek response to Valentine’s Day, it has evolved into a positive celebration of:

Personal growth

Independence

Friendship

Self-care

Freedom from social pressure

It’s not about being anti-relationship. It’s about recognising that being single is not a “waiting room” for life.

Why It Matters

Society can sometimes place heavy emphasis on romantic partnership as a marker of success or fulfilment. From films to advertising campaigns, the message can be subtle but persistent: happiness equals coupledom.

But in reality, single life can offer:

Greater flexibility and autonomy

More time to invest in career or creative pursuits

Stronger friendships and community ties

Financial independence

Personal development opportunities

Being single is not a gap in your story — it is part of your story.

Healthy Ways to Celebrate Singles Awareness Day

1. Invest in Yourself

Book that course. Start that fitness goal. Launch that side project. Use the day as a personal reset button.

2. Celebrate Friendship

Gather friends for dinner, a film night or even a pub quiz. Platonic love deserves just as much celebration.

3. Practice Intentional Self-Care

This might mean:

A long countryside walk

A favourite takeaway

Switching off social media for the day

Finally reading that book on your bedside table

4. Reflect on What You Truly Want

Singles Awareness Day can be a useful moment to assess your values. If you do want a relationship, what does a healthy one look like for you? If you are content as you are, what makes that fulfilling?

There is power in clarity.

Reframing the Narrative

Instead of viewing singlehood as “alone”, try reframing it as:

Self-directed

Unrestricted

Independent

Whole

Your value is not defined by your relationship status. Confidence grows when your sense of identity comes from within rather than external validation.

The Business and Cultural Shift

Interestingly, retailers and hospitality venues are increasingly recognising that not everyone is celebrating Valentine’s Day as a couple. Promotions aimed at “treat yourself” experiences, solo travel packages, and friendship-focused events have become more common.

It reflects a broader cultural understanding: modern life is diverse, and so are relationships.

A Final Single Thought

Whether you are happily single, newly single, or somewhere in between, Singles Awareness Day is an invitation to celebrate yourself — not in defiance of romance, but in recognition of your inherent worth.

Love is important. But so is self-respect, independence and joy in your own company.

And those are worth celebrating every day of the year.

International Childhood Cancer Day UK: Awareness, Support and Hope for Families

Every year on 15 February, International Childhood Cancer Day shines a light on one of the most challenging diagnoses a family can face. 

It's a day of awareness, but also one of courage, resilience and collective responsibility.

For readers of That’s Health, this is an opportunity not only to understand childhood cancer more clearly, but to consider how we, as communities across the UK, can offer meaningful support.

Understanding Childhood Cancer

Childhood cancers are different from adult cancers. They are rarely linked to lifestyle factors and often develop without warning. The most common types include:

Leukaemia

Brain and central nervous system tumours

Lymphomas

Neuroblastoma

Wilms’ tumour (a kidney cancer affecting children)

Thanks to advances in medical research and specialist care, survival rates in high-income countries such as the UK have improved significantly over the past few decades. However, treatment can be intensive, lengthy and emotionally draining for both children and their families.

The Reality for Families

A diagnosis does not just affect a child. It affects siblings, parents, grandparents and friendship circles. Many families face:

Long hospital stays

Time off work and financial strain

Emotional trauma and anxiety

Educational disruption

Long-term health effects from treatment

Paediatric oncology teams across the NHS provide extraordinary care, but families often rely heavily on charities for additional emotional, practical and financial support.

UK Charities Offering Support

Several organisations provide invaluable help to families navigating childhood cancer:

Young Lives vs Cancer/CLIC Sargent– Offers specialist social workers and financial guidance. 

https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk

Children with Cancer UK – Funds research and supports affected families.

https://www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk

The Brain Tumour Charity – Provides tailored support for children and young people with brain tumours.

https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org

Supporting these organisations, even in small ways, helps extend care beyond hospital walls.

The Importance of Early Awareness

While childhood cancer is rare, knowing potential warning signs can help prompt earlier medical attention. These may include:

Persistent unexplained pain

Unusual lumps or swelling

Ongoing fatigue or pallor

Frequent unexplained bruising

Persistent headaches or vomiting

Sudden vision or balance changes

These symptoms are usually caused by less serious conditions, but persistent concerns should always be checked by a GP.

Life After Treatment

Survival is not always the end of the journey. Many children who complete treatment experience long-term effects, including:

Learning difficulties

Hormonal issues

Heart or organ complications

Emotional and psychological challenges

Long-term follow-up care is essential, and awareness days like this remind policymakers and healthcare providers of the need for sustained investment in survivorship programmes.

How You Can Mark the Day

You do not need to organise a major fundraiser to make a difference. Simple actions include:

Wearing a gold ribbon

Sharing accurate information on social media

Donating to a UK childhood cancer charity

Supporting families in your local community

Encouraging open conversations about serious childhood illness

Small gestures of solidarity matter deeply to families who often feel isolated.

A Message of Hope

Medical research continues to improve outcomes year on year. Scientists are developing more targeted therapies designed to reduce harsh side effects and improve long-term quality of life.

International Childhood Cancer Day reminds us that behind every statistic is a child with dreams, hobbies, favourite foods and a family who simply want them to thrive.

Awareness brings understanding. Understanding builds compassion. And compassion, when turned into action, can help ensure that every child facing cancer receives the best possible chance at a healthy future.

Asbestos still present in 83% of state schools in England, experts warn

Image Courtesy BOHS

Occupational health experts are warning that asbestos exposure in schools continues to put teachers, pupils and staff at risk of fatal disease, after the Government’s latest school estates strategy failed to meaningfully address the hazard.

Asbestos remains present in 83% of state schools in England, with official UK statistics indicating around 15 school workers die each year from asbestos-related disease caused by past exposure. US research also suggests that up to 135 pupils may be fatally exposed each year.

Despite this, the Government’s Schools Rebuilding Programme and Education Estates Strategy make no substantive reference to asbestos, relying instead on the Condition Data Collection (CDC) process, which explicitly states that it “does not report on hazardous materials (principally asbestos).”

The Faculty of Asbestos Assessment and Management (FAAM), the professional body for those managing asbestos risks, and the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) are concerned that this approach risks leaving schools ill-equipped to manage one of the most widespread and dangerous legacy hazards in the education estate.

National oversight of asbestos in schools has effectively ceased following the discontinuation of the Government’s Asbestos Management Assurance Programme (AMAP). The programme was intended to provide accurate national data on asbestos risks across the school estate, but its removal has left policymakers without a clear picture of the scale or condition of asbestos in schools.

Last year, inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) served improvement or enforcement notices to one in every 15 of the 421 schools inspected over asbestos management failures. While the regulator has emphasised this does not necessarily mean staff or pupils were in immediate danger, experts say it highlights the significant pressures on head teachers trying to manage a hidden and technically complex risk.

Under current policy, asbestos is generally considered safer to leave in place than remove. However, under the Schools Rebuilding Programme, the presence of asbestos is only treated as an “exceptional factor” if it has already caused an exposure risk or would pose a direct risk to health unless parts of a school were closed. As a result, relatively few of the 3,000 CLASP schools, widely recognised as posing the highest asbestos risk, are included in rebuilding plans.

Jonathan Grant, Registrar of the Faculty of Asbestos Assessment and Management (FAAM), told That's Health: “Asbestos management requires specialist knowledge, detailed risk assessment and constant vigilance. The loss of national oversight has left schools without the support and consistency they need. Expecting head teachers and school staff to manage this risk alone is unrealistic and unsafe.”

Research by the Government in 2019 showed while three quarters of head teachers had read official asbestos guidance, this dropped to 40% of caretakers and facilities managers, and fewer than one in five governors. 

Fewer than 2% of maintenance workers in schools who may disturb asbestos had appropriate training, while 13% had not even received asbestos awareness training.

Schools are also not required to inform parents or pupils about the presence of asbestos, meaning school communities may be entirely unaware of potential risks.

Kevin Bampton, Chief Executive of BOHS, told That's Health: “Prevention is the future of occupational health, yet asbestos – a known cancer-causing substance – is being systematically ignored in national school policy. This is not about expensive solutions; it is about transparency, competence and putting health protection at the heart of safeguarding.”

FAAM and BOHS are calling for immediate, low-cost and cost-free action to bring schools in line with normal asbestos management principles, including:

publishing asbestos management plans on school websites;

establishing a clear right to know for teachers, parents and pupils;

providing governors with accessible guidance on overseeing asbestos risk;

offering centralised specialist support for head teachers and facilities managers;

making asbestos management a core part of school safeguarding inspections; and

setting enforceable training targets for school workers likely to encounter asbestos. 

https://www.bohs.org

Age Concern Hampshire Announces New Foot Clinics to Boost Confidence and Mobility for Older People

Age Concern Hampshire is set to open new foot care clinics in Kingsclere, Farnborough, Lymington, and Bordon, helping older people stay confident, active, and mobile.

Healthy feet are key to balance and independence, yet many older adults struggle to reach their toes due to arthritis, impaired eyesight, or reduced mobility. 

Age Concern Hampshire’s clinics, run by qualified foot health practitioners, provide toenail cutting and basic foot health checks, helping prevent discomfort, falls, and injuries.

Michele Ralph, Foot Care Coordinator at Age Concern Hampshire, told That's Health: "Our Foot Clinics are about more than just foot care, they help older people feel confident on their feet and maintain their independence. We’re committed to making this vital service accessible to everyone who needs it."

Clinics are available across Hampshire, including Alton, Andover, Basingstoke, Dibden/Hythe, Havant, Hedge End, Locks Heath, New Milton, Odiham, Overton, Petersfield, Ringwood, Tadley, Winchester, and Yateley. The new clinics in Kingsclere, Farnborough, Lymington, and Bordon will open soon.

To book an appointment, call 01962 868545 or visit their website for more information: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/our-services-hampshire/footcare

Great News For Readers of That's Health In London! South Kensington Medical & Dental Clinic Launches £30 Dentist Appointment for London Patients

South Kensington Medical & Dental Clinic has announced the introduction of a £30 dentist appointment for patients in London, providing a lower-cost entry point into private dental care alongside clear information on treatment options and pricing.

The appointment is intended to support patients seeking a professional dental assessment, particularly those who may have delayed care due to uncertainty around cost or availability. 

Dental professionals continue to emphasise the importance of early assessment in identifying oral health concerns and supporting preventive care.

The £30 appointment includes a clinical dental assessment and a discussion of symptoms or concerns. Where further investigation or treatment may be appropriate, patients are provided with clear explanations and transparent information regarding possible next steps and associated fees. 

No treatment is carried out without patient consent, and all care decisions are made following clinical assessment.

In addition to the entry-level appointment, the clinic offers an optional Dental Membership Plan priced at £20 per month. Membership provides 50% off dental treatments offered by the clinic, subject to clinical suitability and standard terms. The plan is designed to help patients spread costs and support regular attendance, rather than replacing the need for professional clinical judgement.

South Kensington Medical & Dental Clinic provides a range of dental services, including preventive dentistry, hygiene care, restorative dentistry, cosmetic treatments, orthodontics, and emergency dental care. 

All services are delivered by appropriately qualified dental professionals registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).

The clinic operates seven days a week, including weekends, supporting access for patients who may find weekday appointments difficult to attend. Flexible availability aims to reduce delays in assessment and encourage timely dental consultations.

Located at 20 Old Brompton Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 3DL, the clinic is centrally positioned and accessible from across London. 

The practice reports increasing demand for transparent pricing structures and clearer pathways into private dental care, particularly among patients seeking timely advice without extended waiting periods.

The introduction of a £30 dentist appointment reflects wider changes within UK private healthcare, where providers are responding to patient expectations around clarity, accessibility, and informed decision-making. 

Industry observers note that clearly defined consultation pricing can help patients engage with dental services earlier and make considered choices about their care.

The £30 dentist appointment and optional membership plan are now available to book.

Phone: 020 7183 2362

Email: southken@md.co.uk

Website: https://www.southkenmd.co.uk

Private Dentist Appointment: https://www.southkenmd.co.uk/dental/private-dentist-london

Booking Link: https://www.southkenmd.co.uk/book/dental

Join Their Membership: https://www.southkenmd.co.uk/membership

South Kensington Medical & Dental Clinic is a London-based private healthcare provider offering dental services in line with UK regulatory standards. 

The clinic operates seven days a week and delivers care through qualified professionals registered with relevant regulatory bodies. 

Services are provided following appropriate clinical assessment, patient consent, and transparent communication.

A lifeline for rural amputees: UK charity STAND opens a major prosthetics centre in The Gambia

UK prosthetics charity STAND has renovated and opened a new rehabilitation centre in The Gambia, West Africa, marking a major step forward in providing prosthetic legs to rural amputees.

STAND supplies refurbished prosthetic legs to The Gambia, donated from across the globe. 

Locating this new centre in the heart of the country gives rural amputees direct access to these precious prosthetic limbs, as well as more responsive follow-up care and more reliable rehabilitation services.

The project has been driven by STAND, working in close partnership with The Gambia’s Ministry of Health, with financial support coming from STAND’s key supporters like The British School of Paris. The collaboration reflects a global commitment to strengthening and improving prosthetic care for amputees.

Before the centre, amputees travelled hundreds of miles to be fitted with a leg, as the main rehabilitation centre is located in the capital. STAND and its partners also funded outreach programmes which visited rural towns by car. While these visits were essential, it clearly was not an efficient or sustainable model.

STAND’s Trustee Lucy Gates, The Gambia’s Director of the Department of Social Welfare Allaye Barra, the Gambian press, STAND’s Gambian staff, and the community attended the opening.

Tom Williams OBE, founder of STAND told That's Health: “This centre brings prosthetic and rehabilitation services within reach of people who have been excluded for too long. Distance should never determine who gets to walk again. 

"When mobility is restored, the barriers that once limited amputees begin to disappear, opening the door to walking, working, and truly thriving.”

Giles Bates, Head of Community and Service at The British School of Paris added: “A prosthetic limb can give a child an education, friends and a future filled with hope. We hope that the BSP's contribution towards STAND's new rehabilitation centre in Bansang in The Gambia will help make this a reality for the local community.”

https://www.stand.ngo

Attomarker initiates Acceleration Round to scale immunology diagnostics

Attomarker, a UK-based diagnostics company, has commenced an Acceleration Round to support the next phase of commercial and clinical development of its immunology diagnostics platform.

Attomarker develops multiplex immune diagnostics that deliver clinically relevant immune profiling from a single, small blood sample within a matter of minutes. 

Its tests are specially designed for use in real clinical settings and are already being used by clinicians.

The company’s current focus is immune profiling in patients with Long Covid, estimated to affect more than 65 million people worldwide. 

Attomarker’s COVID Antibody Spectrum Test enables immune classification of patients into one of three distinct endotypes, supporting treatment decision-making and monitoring of disease recovery. Two additional Long Covid companion tests are also in development.

Attomarker recently signed a strategic co-development agreement with EpitogenX to combine next-generation antigen technology with Attomarker’s diagnostics platform, with the aim of extending immune profiling into other immune-mediated conditions that are currently underserved by diagnostic options. Initial target areas include Lyme disease and Hashimoto’s disease.

The company holds a strong intellectual property position, with eight granted patents and a further patent pending, covering its core diagnostics technology and system architecture.

Attomarker’s diagnostics currently operate on a CE-marked benchtop device that is approved and in clinical use. A handheld device is also in development as an additional deployment option.

The Acceleration Round is intended to support commercial rollout, regulatory progress, further clinical validation, and expansion of Attomarker’s immune profiling portfolio within Long Covid.

Retail investor participation is being conducted through Crowdcube, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. All eligibility checks, approvals, and investment activity take place on the Crowdcube platform.

https://www.crowdcube.com/early-access/attomarker

Information for non-retail investors is available via a separate information page.

https://attomarker.com/investors

Affordable Care Centres Offer Vital Break for Family Carers Across Hampshire

Age Concern Hampshire is dedicated to keeping day care affordable, ensuring older people and their families can continue to access vital support at a time when many family carers are under great pressure.

With half-day care available from £38.25, the charity’s Care & Wellbeing Centres provide a flexible and accessible option for family carers who are struggling to balance caring responsibilities with work, employment, and other family commitments, helping them to look after their own wellbeing, find time to rest, and stay supported while caring for their loved ones.

Operating from centres in Locks Heath, New Milton, Yateley and Dibden, Age Concern Hampshire offers a safe, welcoming environment where older people can enjoy companionship, stimulating activities and professional care. 

For family carers, this support provides trusted respite and peace of mind, even for just a few hours.

Sessions include engaging social and therapeutic activities, optional nutritious meals and refreshments, and personalised support from trained and experienced staff, including assistance with personal care and medication where required. Transport can be arranged for those who need help getting to and from the centres.

Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire, told That's Health: “Family carers are often under immense strain, juggling caring responsibilities with work and other family commitments, often while facing financial pressure. 

"We are dedicated to ensuring our services remain affordable so family carers can access support before they reach crisis point. 

"Our half-day care sessions, from £38.25, help families get high-quality care without the cost of full-day or residential alternatives.”

Age Concern Hampshire recognises the vital role family carers play in supporting older people and believes affordable, preventative support is key to sustaining both carers and those they care for.

Free taster days are available at all Care & Wellbeing Centres, allowing families to experience the service before making any commitment. Call 01962 868545 or visit their website to find out more: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/care-and-wellbeing-services-hampshire.

BWY and Parkinson’s UK partner to bring accessible yoga to people with Parkinson’s

The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY), the UK’s largest yoga charity and National Governing Body for yoga in England and Wales, has partnered with Parkinson’s UK to make yoga more accessible for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers.

On Friday 10 April, to mark World Parkinson’s Day (11 April), the organisations will host a free 45-minute online chair yoga class designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s, those who support them, and yoga teachers keen to adapt their classes for this community.

Led by Special Yoga Teacher and BWY Tutor Richard Kravetz, the session will share safe, practical movements and breathing techniques that can be done seated, with or without additional support.

Recent figures from Parkinson’s UK estimate that around 166,000 people in the UK are currently living with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, with figures expected to rise due to an ageing population. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, causing symptoms such as tremor, stiffness and slowness.

A recent study of the effects of yoga on people with Parkinson’s disease found that yoga improved motor function, balance, functional mobility, anxiety, depression and quality of life in people with Parkinson’s.

BWY Chair, Diana O’Reilly told That's Heealth: "Yoga can be hugely beneficial for people with Parkinson’s. 

"Gentle chair-based practices can be adapted for almost everyone, which means people can participate safely whether they are newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson’s for many years. 

"Through this partnership, we want to give more teachers the tools they need to welcome people with Parkinson’s into their classes and to make sure no one feels that yoga ‘isn’t for them’.’

Jed Parsons, Physical Activity Delivery Manager for Parkinsons UK, commented: "I’m really excited about our partnership with the British Wheel of Yoga because it has the potential to make a genuine, lasting difference for people living with Parkinson’s. Yoga can be a powerful way to support strength, balance, mobility and wellbeing, but too often people feel that classes aren’t accessible or suitable for them.

"By working together, we can give yoga teachers the confidence, skills and understanding to adapt their practice, create welcoming environments and ensure that people with Parkinson’s feel included from the very first session. 

This partnership is about removing barriers, challenging perceptions, and making it clear that yoga is for everyone, whether someone is newly diagnosed or has been living with Parkinson’s for many years.’

For full event details and to book your place, visit the event page: https://portal.bwy.org.uk/user/events/1122. Please note, you will need to create a free account on the BWY website or log in to your existing account to complete your booking.

BWY is committed to sharing yoga’s transformative power and rich heritage through events and education. Guided by yoga’s principles and traditions, BWY’s mission is to enrich lives through yoga, increasing accessibility and inclusivity. 

Established as a registered charity in 1965 and recognised as the National Governing Body for Yoga by Sport England and Sport Wales, BWY serves more than 5,000 members and is supported by a 100-strong local volunteer network and a small central team.

https://www.bwy.org.uk

Parkinson’s UK is the leading charity for people affected by Parkinson’s, here to support every Parkinson’s journey, every step of the way. The charity campaigns for better health and care, funds groundbreaking research into new treatments and runs life-changing support services, uniting a powerful community with one mission: improving life with Parkinson’s. 

Physical activity is a key part of this, helping people manage symptoms, stay mobile, build confidence and support their mental wellbeing. Parkinson’s UK works to make sure people with Parkinson’s have safe, inclusive and meaningful opportunities to move, stay active and remain independent for as long as possible.

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk

International pharmacy body, national associations win backing from governments to develop new African College of Pharmacists

The Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) and the National Pharmacy Associations (NPA) of six African countries celebrated last Thursday evening after Ministers attending the 76th Health Ministers Conference of the East, Central and Southern African Health Community (ECSA-HC) formally adopted a resolution that promises to pave the way for the creation of an ECSA-HC College of Pharmacists.

Representatives of CPA and the NPAs of Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Kenya and host country Eswatini – all members of the CPA – presented a proposal to Health Ministers from the nine ECSA-HC member states who gathered in Eswatini, seeking their backing to draw up a detailed proposal for the formation of a postgraduate training centre for pharmacists working in the region. Ministers subsequently adopted a resolution which includes authorisation for ECSA-HC’s Secretariat to work with CPA and other key stakeholders on the development of a comprehensive proposal for how the College could be formed and supported.

The creation of such a College would represent a significant advance in workforce training in the nine ECSA countries. Although similar colleges already exist to serve the postgraduate training needs of nurses and surgeons among others, no such provision exists for pharmacists, who across Africa play a unique and vital role in healthcare systems as the first point of contact for many patients – particularly those on low incomes or in hard to reach communities.

It would also bring the ECSA-HC region into alignment with its neighbours. Across West Africa, nearly 600 professionals have benefited from advanced training by the WAHO West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists since its creation in 1997. WAHO has also been able to use its College to support the development of new schools of pharmacy for undergraduates in countries like Sierra Leone, strengthening workforces and creating skilled employment opportunities for young health professionals.

If successfully established, the ECSA-HC College of Pharmacists would provide work-based advanced training opportunities to train pharmacists in advanced skills. Initially, the College will focus on training pharmacists in advanced leadership and practice skills needed to champion effective antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) – measures that can be taken to tackle antibiotic resistance, a health crisis that threatens to take millions of lives across Africa by 2050 without urgent intervention. International collaboration between ECSA-HC member states will be an essential ingredient of the College’s working model, taking advantage of each country’s strengths and being mindful of each nation’s challenges.

The initial offering will draw upon CPA’s expertise as a globally recognised training provider for pharmacists that has also led multiple high impact AMS training programmes across eight African countries since 2019, training almost 30,000 healthcare workers on the ground and providing digital resources for over 100,000 users with the backing of the UK’s Fleming Fund. Tackling antibiotic resistance is an area where pharmacist leadership – as clinicians who are experts in the safe, effective and sustainable use of medicines – has been shown to be critical.

Similar Fellowship offerings by CPA as part of these programmes have already had a significant impact. At one hospital in Kenya, a CPA pharmacy leadership trainee increased adherence to antibiotic best practice in pre-surgical treatment from just 20% of patients to almost 90%. In Uganda, CPA interventions saw over 80% of patients benefit from targeted therapy, helping cut order times for certain life saving emergency antibiotics from every two weeks to every two months. CPA hopes that an ESCA-HC College of Pharmacists will be able to drive similar pharmacist-led improvements across the region in a sustainable and cost-effective way.

After the resolution was formally adopted by Ministers, CPA and its national partners gathered in Ezulwini for a ceremonial counter-signing of the ministerial resolution, affirming their commitment to carrying through the project and working in partnership to make the College a reality.

Beth Ward, CPA’s Strategic lead for Workforce Capability Building, told That's Health: “We are thrilled and grateful that ECSA Health Ministers have recognised the impact that a College of Pharmacists would have on the region. Pharmacists have an absolutely critical role to play in tackling public health threats like antibiotic resistance and in managing many of the non-communicable diseases that increasingly challenge ECSA communities, but have limited access to the kind of advanced training opportunities available to doctors and nurses despite being on the frontline of patient care. The College would bring training opportunities in leadership, advanced skills and clinical expertise in line with other professions, driving improvement across health systems and strengthening the safe, effective, and sustainable use of life-saving medicines.”

Gift Chakera, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Zimbabwe, said: “The 76th ECSA-HC Health Ministers Conference represents a huge milestone moment for our profession. CPA’s successful advocacy efforts to secure endorsement for the establishment of a Regional College of Pharmacists will harmonise training and recognition across ESCA countries, ensuring consistent competencies for AMR management, and will facilitate cross-border collaboration in surveillance and regulation. We congratulate CPA on their advocacy efforts and offer our sincere gratitude to the ECSA-HC Health Ministers and all supporting partners.”

William Mpute, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Malawi, said: “A specialised pharmacy workforce will play an integral role in delivering optimal pharmaceutical care to Malawians and contribute to the efforts of the Malawi government in achieving Universal Health Coverage. An ESCA-HC School of Pharmacists offers an effective means to address the current and future needs in the pharmaceutical sector and the health sector at large.”

With Ministerial backing for the idea secured, the next step for the proposal’s champions is to develop a concrete framework for the College’s structure, educational offering and funding mechanisms, working in partnership with the ECSA-HC Secretariat to do so.

https://commonwealthpharmacy.org

Cochlear Implant Pioneers and MED‑EL Founders Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair Honoured with 2026 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering

MED‑EL celebrates a historic milestone: its founders, Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair, have been named, together with other outstanding personalities, as Laureates of the 2026 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering—one of the world’s most prestigious honours for life‑changing technological innovation.

The 2026 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering recognises the design and development of modern neural interfaces—technologies that restore lost human functions—and the visionary engineers behind them.

Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair are honoured alongside Graeme Clark and Blake Wilson for their groundbreaking contributions to cochlear implants, a technology that converts sound into electrical signals to directly stimulate the auditory nerve, restoring hearing to hundreds of thousands of people worldwide over the past four decades.

Pioneering Cochlear Implants That Changed Hearing Care Forever

Beginning in 1975 at the Technical University of Vienna, Austria, Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair launched pioneering cochlear implant research that led to the world’s first microelectronic cochlear implant in 1977, marking a turning point in hearing technology.

Their work drove critical advances in signal processing, implant miniaturisation, and long‑term biocompatibility, laying the foundation for today’s advanced cochlear implants.

By uniting rigorous engineering with deep clinical insight, the Hochmairs not only transformed hearing care but also paved the way for the founding of MED‑EL. Their vision continues to shape the company’s mission to deliver lifelong hearing solutions for people of all ages.

With recent advancements such as TICI (Totally Implantable Cochlear Implant), MED‑EL continues to advance neural interface engineering, delivering even more personalised and lifelike hearing experiences.

Engineering Guided by Compassion and Scientific Integrity

“This honour recognises not only a technological achievement, but a belief we have held from the very beginning—that engineering, guided by compassion and scientific integrity, can fundamentally change lives,” Ingeborg Hochmair, Co‑founder and CEO of MED‑EL told That's Health.

“Cochlear implants were once considered impossible by many. Today, they demonstrate what can be achieved when engineers, clinicians, and users work together with a shared purpose.”

Erwin Hochmair, Co‑founder of MED‑EL, adds: “From the earliest experiments, our goal was to create a neural interface that could work in harmony with the human auditory system over a lifetime. This recognition by the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering affirms the importance of long‑term thinking, scientific persistence, and engineering solutions that truly serve people.”

Together with Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair, the 2026 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering (QEPrize) has been awarded to Graeme Clark, Blake Wilson, John Donoghue, Alim Louis Benabid, Pierre Pollak, Jocelyne Bloch, and Grégoire Courtine for the design and development of modern neural interfaces that restore human function.

The Laureates will share the £500,000 prize and collectively represent a new era in neuroengineering and neuroprosthetics, alongside parallel breakthroughs in brain‑computer interfaces, deep brain stimulation, and electronic spinal stimulation. Together, these innovations demonstrate the extraordinary potential of engineering to restore lost functions, independence, and dignity.

On Tuesday, 3 February, the 2026 Laureates were formally announced by Lord Vallance, Chair of the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering Foundation, at the Science Museum in London.

Shaping the Future of Hearing Technology

For MED‑EL, this award is also a tribute to all hearing implant users worldwide whose experiences continue to inspire innovation, as well as the global community of engineers, researchers, clinicians, and partners advancing hearing technology.

“This recognition strengthens our resolve to keep pushing boundaries,” Ingeborg Hochmair states. “Our mission has always been to overcome hearing loss as a barrier to communication and quality of life. At MED‑EL, we will continue to invest in research, accessibility, and technologies that help people participate fully in life, wherever they are.”

Awarded annually, the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering (QEPrize) champions bold, groundbreaking engineering innovation of global benefit to humanity. The prize celebrates engineering visionaries, inspiring young minds to consider engineering as a career and helping to solve the challenges of the future.

The Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering is open to:

Up to ten living individuals

Of any nationality

Who are personally responsible for a groundbreaking innovation in engineering of global benefit to humanity

Self‑nomination is not permitted.

The judges use the following criteria to select the winner or winners:

What groundbreaking innovation in engineering has been achieved?

In what way has this innovation been of global benefit to humanity?

Are there other individuals who may have played a pivotal role in this development?

To find out more about this year’s winning innovation, visit: www.qeprize.org/winners

MED‑EL Medical Electronics, a leader in implantable hearing solutions, is driven by a mission to overcome hearing loss as a barrier to communication and quality of life. The Austrian‑based, privately owned company was co‑founded by industry pioneers Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair, whose groundbreaking research led to the development of the world’s first micro‑electronic multi‑channel cochlear implant, successfully implanted in 1977 and forming the basis of the modern cochlear implant.

This innovation laid the foundation for the company’s growth in 1990, when MED‑EL hired its first employees. Today, MED‑EL employs more than 3,100 people from around 90 nations across 30 locations worldwide.

MED‑EL offers the widest range of implantable and non‑implantable solutions to treat all types of hearing loss, enabling people in 140 countries to experience the gift of hearing. Its portfolio includes cochlear and middle ear implant systems, combined electric acoustic stimulation hearing implant systems, auditory brainstem implants, and surgical and non‑surgical bone conduction devices.

Website: www.medel.com/en-gb/

“My handstand challenge for best mate whose life was turned upside down.”

When illness turned Ellis Healy’s life upside down, his best mate Harry turned upside down too - by committing to doing a handstand every day in 2026 to raise money for charity.

Harry Clesham, who lives in southwest London, has already raised over £2,000 for The Brain Tumour Charity via social media and his fundraising page – and his technique has improved to the stage where he can walk a few steps on his hands too.

He posts daily videos of his activities on Instagram, and carries out his feats in locations as varied as pubs, pavements, gyms, holiday hotspots and hotel rooms.

Harry and Ellis first met when they were students at university in Leicester in 2011. They lived in the same halls of residence, hung out together during Freshers’ Week and both joined the rugby team.

Ellis, 33, who had intended to become a butcher like his dad, then worked in London for a year, as did Harry. They sat their finals in Leicester and then both moved back to London to work at tech companies. Harry was also a groomsman and the Master of Ceremonies when Ellis married his wife Hannah in 2024.

But Ellis has had health struggles since he was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when he was 11. Treatment included immunosuppressant medication which stopped working when he was 27.

While waiting to have scheduled keyhole surgery, he was rushed to hospital with a blockage in his intestine. This was found to be tumour, and to his shock, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Fortunately, it had been caught early and he was treated with six rounds of R-CHOP chemotherapy – a combination of four drugs and a steroid.

That's where his good fortune ended. A PET scan to check he had the all-clear found no uptake of the contrast dye on the right side of his brain. A follow up scan identified a brain tumour.

Ellis told That's Health: “I was due to have keyhole surgery to treat my Crohn’s but ended up having four lots of surgery and two bouts of sepsis which triggered a cardiac arrest.

“I was discharged with a wearable defibrillator vest and was one of the first patients in the UK to use one. I had to wear it for 24 hours a day, including at work and at the gym which was awkward.”

Once his infection had gone, brain tumour treatment was due to start. But first he needed to have a permanent defibrillator implanted. Then, last March, Ellis had three seizures back-to-back.

Ellis continued: “I had my first seizure while I was asleep. It woke my wife who called an ambulance which arrived within 10 minutes. They gave me a sedative which stopped the seizure, but I had another one a short while later and another one in the ambulance.”

Six months after the seizures and the ICD Implant, Ellis had an awake craniotomy to remove a grade 2 to 3 astrocytoma, from which he’s now recuperating.

Throughout everything, Harry has supported Ellis as best he can – taking the mickey out of his fashion sense when he was wearing the defibrillator vest, and when he was well enough, going camping on the Dorset coast. That’s when the idea to raise awareness and funds came about.

Harry said: “Ellis has been an exceptional friend and we’ve been close pals ever since we met. His strength, humour and resilience throughout have been nothing short of inspiring - I truly haven’t met anyone like him. He’s one of a kind.

“The challenge was born after Ellis and I spent two days walking together along the Jurassic Coast. We talked about what he was going through, how he was feeling and what I could do to support him in a meaningful way. During those conversations, Ellis said that if I were to raise money for a cause, he would want it to be for The Brain Tumour Charity.”

Ellis added: “I mentioned The Brain Tumour Charity because their website and leaflets provide all the information you need to know - not just about living with the illness but also how to prepare for what’s next and how to overcome some of the challenges you’re going to face.

“It's just a really good single point of reference so I’ve used it a lot and it’s been very helpful for my family to understand it as well, in their own time.”

You can support Harry’s fundraising efforts here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/officialhandstandharry – and watch his daily handstand videos on Instagram @officialhandstandharry.

Harry said: “The rule is simple: no matter what the day brings, there is always time to show up for this cause. This challenge is about more than handstands. It is about standing alongside a friend as he recovers from brain tumour surgery, raising awareness of the impact brain tumours have on individuals and their families, and supporting the research, care and services provided by The Brain Tumour Charity. 

"I will keep going, one day, one handstand and one donation at a time, for Ellis and for everyone affected by brain tumours.”

Red Light Therapy for Nasal Passages: Does It Work?

Red light therapy (also called photobiomodulation) uses specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to influence cellular activity. 

It’s often promoted for skin health and pain relief, but can it help blocked or irritated nasal passages?

The ideas behind it

Supporters claim that red light may:

reduce inflammation in the nasal lining

improve local circulation

ease congestion and sinus pressure

help allergy-related nasal symptoms

Some devices are used externally around the nose, while others place a small light just inside the nostrils.

What does the evidence say?

The science is limited and mixed. A few small studies suggest possible symptom relief—particularly for allergic rhinitis, but results aren’t consistent, and study sizes are small. 

There’s no strong evidence that red light therapy can treat sinus infections or structural issues.

In short: it’s not a miracle cure, but some people do report mild improvement in comfort and airflow.

What it may help with

Mild nasal inflammation

Hay fever or allergy-related congestion

Post-cold irritation

What it’s unlikely to fix

Sinus infections with fever or facial pain

Deviated septum or nasal polyps

Severe or chronic sinusitis

Is it safe?

Generally low-risk when used correctly, but intranasal devices can cause irritation or dryness. Hygiene is important, and anyone prone to nosebleeds should be cautious.

The bottom line

Red light therapy may offer modest relief for some people with mild nasal inflammation, but it shouldn’t replace proven treatments like saline sprays, steroid nasal sprays, or medical advice. Think of it as a supportive option, not a primary solution.

If symptoms are persistent, one-sided, or worsening, it’s best to speak to a GP.

I use a red light therapy device which I have owned for several years and I have noticed improvements in my nasal passages after use.

They are available from Amazon at around £30 https://amzn.to/4rAl00m

Gastroparesis Awareness: A Hidden Digestive Condition

Gastroparesis is a long-term digestive condition that is still widely misunderstood, yet it can have a major impact on physical health, mental wellbeing, and day-to-day life.

Raising awareness helps people recognise symptoms earlier, seek appropriate support, and feel less alone.

What Is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis means delayed stomach emptying. Food moves from the stomach to the small intestine more slowly than normal, even though there is no physical blockage. 

The condition is usually linked to damage or dysfunction of the nerves and muscles that control digestion, particularly the vagus nerve.

Symptoms to Be Aware Of

Symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go, which often makes diagnosis difficult. Common symptoms include:

Ongoing nausea or vomiting

Feeling full after only a few mouthfuls

Bloating and abdominal discomfort

Acid reflux or heartburn

Unintentional weight loss

Poor blood sugar control (especially in people with diabetes)

Because these symptoms overlap with other gastrointestinal conditions, people can wait years for a clear diagnosis.

Causes and Risk Factors

In the UK, gastroparesis is most often associated with:

Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)

Nerve damage following surgery

Certain viral infections

Side effects of some medications

Idiopathic gastroparesis, where no clear cause is found

Managing Life With Gastroparesis

There is currently no cure, but symptoms can often be managed with medical guidance and lifestyle adjustments. Common approaches include:

Eating small, frequent meals

Reducing high-fat and high-fibre foods

Choosing soft or blended meals

Medication to improve stomach motility or reduce nausea

Nutritional support where needed

Living with gastroparesis can be physically draining and emotionally challenging. Anxiety, frustration, and low mood are common — making holistic healthcare essential.

Why Gastroparesis Awareness Matters

Greater awareness can lead to:

Faster diagnosis and treatment

Better understanding from employers and loved ones

Improved access to specialist care

Reduced stigma around invisible chronic illness

Being listened to and believed is often one of the biggest hurdles for people with gastroparesis.

UK Support and Help

If you’re affected by gastroparesis, these UK-based organisations offer reliable information and support:

NHS https://www.nhs.uk

Your GP is the first step for referrals, investigations, and access to gastroenterology services.

Guts UK https://gutscharity.org.uk

Provides clear, patient-friendly resources on gastroparesis and other digestive conditions. Previously known as the Digestive Disorders Foundation

Offers educational materials and awareness campaigns focused on digestive health.

PINNT https://pinnt.com/Home.aspx

Supports people who need enteral or parenteral nutrition, including those with severe gastroparesis.

If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, speak to your GP and ask about further investigation or specialist referral.

Gastric electric pacemakers are also a treatment option 

https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/treatments/gastric-electrical-stimulation-for-gastroparesis

That’s Health Takeaway

Gastroparesis is often invisible, but its impact is very real. Awareness, education, and access to the right UK support services can make a meaningful difference — not just medically, but emotionally too.

Incidentally, El Dyson, a friend of this blog who introduced us to the existence of Gastroparesis has a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to have a gastric pacemaker fitted. 

You can visit her appeal fund here: https://gofund.me/b6f40683

National Toothache Day: Why Dental Pain Should Never Be Ignored

National Toothache Day is a timely reminder that tooth pain isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s your body waving a red flag. 

Whether it’s a dull throb, a sharp jolt when you sip something cold, or an ache that keeps you awake at night, toothache usually means something needs attention.

What actually causes toothache?

Toothache can stem from a range of issues, including:

Tooth decay or cavities

Gum disease or infection

Cracked or broken teeth

Worn enamel causing sensitivity

Impacted wisdom teeth

Sinus problems that mimic dental pain

Ignoring it rarely makes it go away. In fact, it often gets worse.

The knock-on effects of dental pain

Ongoing toothache can affect far more than your mouth. Many people report:

Poor sleep and fatigue

Difficulty eating properly

Headaches and jaw pain

Reduced concentration and mood

Left untreated, infections in the mouth can spread, leading to more serious health complications.

What you can do right now

If you’re experiencing toothache:

Rinse gently with warm salt water

Avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods

Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth

Take appropriate pain relief if needed (as directed)

These steps may help ease discomfort — but they’re not a cure.

When to seek help

If pain lasts more than a day or two, is severe, or comes with swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth, it’s time to seek professional advice. In the UK, your dentist should always be your first port of call, and urgent issues can be assessed via the NHS if needed.

Prevention really is better than cure

National Toothache Day is also a nudge to prioritise prevention:

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

Clean between teeth every day

Attend regular dental check-ups

Don’t put off minor problems

A healthy mouth supports overall health — and saves a lot of pain down the line.

Today’s takeaway: toothache is never “just one of those things”. Listen to it, act early, and give your smile the care it deserves.

PPRX strengthens access to Mounjaro and Wegovy as demand surges

PPRX, a fully registered UK pharmacy, has confirmed expanded national access to prescription weight-loss injections Mounjaro and Wegovy, responding to unprecedented demand from patients seeking clinically supported weight management outside the NHS.

As NHS access to GLP-1 weight-loss treatments remains limited due to strict eligibility criteria and long waiting lists, increasing numbers of patients are turning to regulated private pharmacies for faster, medically supervised care. 

PPRX offers a fully compliant alternative, providing access to Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) through a secure online consultation process, with next-day delivery across the UK and Northern Ireland.

Mounjaro and Wegovy are prescription-only injectable treatments that work by regulating appetite and improving metabolic control. Clinical studies show both treatments are effective for long-term weight management when prescribed and monitored appropriately.

PPRX operates as a legitimate UK pharmacy and is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Patients and partners can independently verify the pharmacy’s registration on the official GPhC register:

https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/registers/pharmacy/9012740

“Our priority is patient safety, transparency, and proper medical oversight,” a spokesperson for PPRX told That's Health.

“We're seeing strong demand from patients who are informed, motivated, and seeking responsible access to treatment. Every prescription is issued following a clinical assessment by a UK-registered prescriber, with ongoing pharmacist support.”

Through its digital consultation pathway, PPRX enables patients to access treatment without needing a GP appointment, yet still maintaining full regulatory compliance. 

Each order includes a genuine manufacturer pen, needles, swabs, sharps disposal, pharmacist guidance, and temperature-controlled next-day delivery.

PPRX provides detailed educational resources to ensure patients understand their treatment, including safety information, dosing guidance, and injection support.

Mounjaro information:

https://www.pprx.co.uk/mounjaro

Mounjaro product page:

https://www.pprx.co.uk/product/mounjaro/

Mounjaro prices:

https://www.pprx.co.uk/mounjaro-prices

Wegovy information:

https://www.pprx.co.uk/wegovy

Wegovy product page:

https://www.pprx.co.uk/product/wegovy/

Wegovy prices:

https://www.pprx.co.uk/wegovy-prices

The pharmacy delivers nationwide, including major cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, and surrounding regions across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Industry analysts note that private pharmacies are increasingly filling a gap created by rising obesity rates and constrained NHS capacity. 

Regulated providers like PPRX play a key role by offering controlled access, patient education, and pharmacovigilance within a compliant framework.

PPRX has confirmed continued investment in pharmacist-led support, supply-chain resilience, and patient education as part of its 2026 expansion strategy.

For more information, visit: https://www.pprx.co.uk

A Lasting Legacy: Kenneth Townsley’s Vision Lives on Through Kentown Support

Kentown Support was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Kenneth Townsley, (PICTURED) Founder of The Kentown Wizard Foundation. 

Ken was a remarkable visionary whose life and work had a profound and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of children and young people across the UK. 

The Kentown Wizard Foundation continues to reflect the values and generosity that shaped Ken’s life and work.

In 2025, Dr Helena Dunbar established Kentown Support, funded by The Kentown Wizard Foundation. Set up as an independent not-for-profit organisation, Dr Dunbar as CEO, defined the charity’s mission to transform children’s community palliative care provision across the UK through meaningful collaboration and a unique model of programme delivery.

Kentown Support has also partnered with The Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s College, London in the funding of a new Centre of Excellence for children's palliative care research, education and training. The new Centre reflects a long-term commitment to building capacity in a field that has historically been under-resourced and under-researched and sets the standard globally for high quality research, education, and care. 

In addition to funding several research studies, Master’s and PhD scholarships, the new centre will also ensure it builds research capacity and knowledge for care professionals and parents/carers of seriously ill children, advancing Ken’s legacy for the benefit of all.

Dr Dunbar said told That's Health:  “I feel honoured and privileged to be able to continue Ken’s legacy and vision through Kentown Support. We are making groundbreaking strides in closing gaps in children’s community palliative care.

"Our model is strengthening collaboration and integration with existing services at a local level and is ensuring that seriously ill children can

 remain at home, cared for by skilled professionals and able to meet their complex needs whilst giving their families the support they need at such a difficult time.”

Significant challenges remain across the children’s palliative care sector, including shortages of skilled personnel, limited access to 24/7 specialist children’s community palliative care and fragmented services. Kentown Support’s aim is to work alongside existing services and organisations to address these gaps and improve the quality, accessibility and coordination of children’s community palliative care through cultural change and a fully collaborative approach.

Through its work, Kentown Support will continue Ken Townsley’s vision of improving and impacting the lives of thousands of seriously ill children across the UK. His legacy will live on in every family supported, every professional empowered and every child enabled to receive compassionate, expert care at home.

Kentown Support extends its deepest sympathies to Ken’s family, friends, the staff and board of trustees at The Kentown Wizard Foundation and all who were touched by his extraordinary life and generosity.

www.kentownsupport.org.uk

Menopausal hair loss. What You Can Do

Around 40% of women over 50 notice some degree of hair thinning, and around 50% of women over 50 experience some degree of hair loss. 

Yet despite hair changes being common symptoms of the menopause, these aren’t often talked about, and many women struggle in silence.

In the Winter 2025–2026 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, Neil Harvey RIT, chair of the Institute of Trichologists, discusses the causes and impact of hair loss and hair thinning at the menopause. 

He looks at what could be making the symptoms worse, along with the range of medical and non-medical treatments, such as medicines, HRT, nutrition and dietary supplements.

“Hormonal changes are the most common causes of hair changes at this time of life,” says Norma Goldman, founder and director of The Menopause Exchange. “But other things can make hair loss or hair thinning worse, such as thyroid conditions, iron deficiency, some medicines, and stress or anxiety. The good news is that there are effective treatments available for hair loss and hair thinning, so it’s important that women speak to their GP, menopause specialist or trichologist (a specialist in diseases or problems affecting the hair and scalp).”

The Menopause Exchange’s subscribers include women, men, healthcare professionals, complementary therapists, workplace managers, employees and journalists. Other articles in the Winter 2025–2026 issue of The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter include side-effects of HRT, menopause myths you might still believe, and CBT, systemic psychotherapy & mindfulness, as well as news, Ask the Experts Q&As and information about Norma Goldman’s webinars, talks and workshops.

The Menopause Exchange, which was established in 1999, is unbiased and independent and isn’t sponsored by any companies or organisations. Their free quarterly newsletter contains articles written by top UK medical experts, including menopause consultants, GPs, specialist menopause nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, complementary practitioners, a menopause counsellor and a pelvic health physiotherapist.

To join The Menopause Exchange, anyone can sign up for free at their website, http://www.menopause-exchange.co.uk. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter (@MenopauseExch).

New BOHS guidance highlights the need to control cancer risks arising from Diesel Engine Exhaust Emissions at work

The British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS), the Chartered Society for Worker Health Protection, and the Faculty of Occupational Hygiene, have published new Guidance for Occupational Hygienists on the Assessment and Control of the Health Risks from Diesel Engine Exhaust Emissions (DEEEs). 

While the guidance provides professional information for experts, it should also help health and safety and other professionals understand the required approaches to control exposure to diesel engine exhaust emissions.

Scientific experts are calling on employers who use diesel powered plant, equipment and vehicles to ensure that they understand the best way of controlling emissions or obtain expert competent advice to assist them.

“Diesel engines power significant parts of the UK economy. Whilst a transition to other power sources is best for the environment and for human health, it is not always easy to do so.” BOHS President-Elect, Sarah Leeson told That's Health.

“If diesel engine exhaust emissions are present in the workplace, they need to be controlled so that harmful exposures are reduced to as low a level as can be reasonably achieved. We have produced this guidance to help enable those responsible for health in the workplace to ensure that this is achievable.”

Research studies have highlighted that DEEEs create serious occupational health risks. DEEEs are associated with increased risks of cervical cancer in women, progressively increased risks of lung cancer as exposure increases, head and neck cancer, as well as laryngeal cancer, gastric and rectal cancers in drivers and oesophageal cancers in machinery operators. Short-term exposure to diesel engine exhaust emissions can cause eye and respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea and dizziness.

It is estimated that occupational exposure to diesel engine exhaust emissions contributes to around 650 deaths each year in the UK primarily from lung and bladder cancer. Thousands more workers are thought to be exposed to diesel fumes as part of their daily work, particularly in construction, transport, logistics, warehousing, mining, manufacturing and maintenance activities.

The guidance supplements and provides updated information to complement the Health and Safety Executive’s guidance HSG187, Control of diesel engine exhaust emissions in the workplace – HSE (2012) reflecting advances in technology, current scientific evidence and continuing public health concerns.

Diesel engine exhaust emissions are a complex mixture of harmful substances and their composition varies depending on factors such as engine age, maintenance, operating conditions and fuel type, meaning exposure levels can differ widely between workplaces.

While ultra-low sulphur fuels, diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and new technology diesel engines (NTDE) have reduced some emissions, these measures have not eliminated risk, particularly where diesel-powered vehicles or plant operate in enclosed or poorly ventilated environments.

The new BOHS guidance is designed to help occupational hygienists and employers:

Understand the nature and variability of diesel engine exhaust exposures

Carry out effective measurement and assessment of the health risks

Identify and implement appropriate control measures

Reduce preventable cases of serious work-related ill health

BOHS CEO Professor Kevin Bampton commented, “It’s 14 years since the diesel engine exhaust emissions were declared to be cancer-causing and personal injury lawyers in the UK are now actively recruiting clients who think that they may have been over-exposed to emissions at work. 

"Controlling exhaust emissions is not only an environmental must and morally right as an employer, but it should be up there on the corporate risk register as something that could have a serious impact on the current and future balance sheet, if not managed correctly.”

https://www.bohs.org

SINGU acquires Synbiotix to expand healthcare facilities management capabilities

SINGU, a top European provider of cloud-based software for property operations and facility management has acquired UK-based Synbiotix. 

The acquisition strengthens SINGU’s presence in the United Kingdom and expands its healthcare capabilities, with a particular focus on supporting the operational and regulatory needs of the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

Synbiotix is an established provider of specialised software solutions for healthcare facilities management with a focus on catering, compliance, infection prevention and control (IPC), as well as audit and governance processes. 

Its solutions support healthcare organisations in managing regulatory requirements efficiently, reducing operational risk and improving patient safety. 

Through the acquisition, Synbiotix adds a critical healthcare-specific component to SINGU’s building operations platform, and complements the existing Micad solutions.

Following SINGU’s acquisition of Micad in 2025, which expanded its space and asset management capabilities, the addition of Synbiotix further strengthens the Group’s integrated facilities management offering. 

Together, SINGU provides the core CAFM and maintenance platform, Micad adds space, compliance, and asset intelligence, and Synbiotix delivers specialist digital tools for a complete facilities management operation. Combined, these solutions enable healthcare organisations to manage facilities, catering, and operational requirements through a single, coordinated technology environment.

Paweł Malon, Group CEO, told That's Health: “The acquisition of Synbiotix significantly strengthens our position in the healthcare market and further establishes SINGU as a leading European provider of property operations software. 

"We are committed to building an integrated, end-to-end platform that drives value across complex property operations. I look forward to working with Mark Edell and his team to drive operational excellence and improve patient experience.”

Synbiotix will continue to operate within the SINGU Group, ensuring continuity for existing customers while gaining access to a scalable, cloud-based platform designed to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. 

The integration also creates new opportunities to develop Synbiotix’s solutions within a broader ecosystem and extend them to the existing Micad customer base—supporting seamless operations across more than 200 NHS Trusts and many other clients.

“Joining SINGU represents a strategic milestone for Synbiotix. We contribute deep healthcare expertise and many years of experience working with the NHS, while benefiting from the technological strength and scalability of the SINGU platform. This combination creates new opportunities to further develop our solutions and deliver even greater value to healthcare organisations,” added Mark Edell, Managing Director of Synbiotix.

The acquisition of Synbiotix forms part of SINGU’s continued growth strategy in Europe and underlines the strategic importance of the healthcare sector to the Group. It follows SINGU’s acquisition of Micad and net-haus in 2025, and reflects a targeted buy-and-build approach aimed at creating a leading, vertically integrated platform for mission-critical applications across property operations.

For more information, visit SINGU.com.

The Importance of Ginkgo Biloba as a Supplement

Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest tree species in the world and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. 

Today, it remains a popular supplement, particularly for those interested in brain health, circulation, and healthy ageing.

Brain and Cognitive Support

Ginkgo biloba is most commonly associated with supporting memory, focus, and mental clarity. 

It is believed to work by improving blood flow to the brain, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients that are essential for healthy cognitive function.

Circulation and Antioxidant Benefits

By supporting healthy blood circulation, ginkgo biloba may help with overall vitality and wellbeing. Its antioxidant compounds also help protect cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to ageing and long-term health issues.

Easy to Take, Widely Available

In the UK, ginkgo biloba is available in capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. It is usually taken daily, with benefits often becoming noticeable after several weeks of consistent use.

Safety Considerations

Ginkgo biloba is generally well tolerated, but it may interact with blood-thinning medications and should be avoided before surgery. Anyone with medical conditions or who is taking medication should speak to a GP or pharmacist before use.

In Summary

Ginkgo biloba is a well-established supplement that may support brain health, circulation, and antioxidant protection. While not a cure-all, it can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle when taken responsibly.

From Walls to Bloodstream: Are Decaying Conventional Paints a Source of Your Body's Microplastic Load? Free DIY Microplastics Audit Now Available

As the global scientific community raises the alarm over microplastics detected in human blood, lungs, and placentas, their attention is turning to another "hidden culprit" inside our homes: decaying conventional paints.

For decades, we've  coated our living and work spaces in "liquid plastics", acrylic and vinyl resins. Today, a landmark UK-funded documentary reveals the scale of the microplastic crisis, featuring Paint Zero®, a new bio-mineral coating to break the cycle of indoor plastic inhalation.

1. The "Triple Zero" Standard: A New Baseline for Health

Conventional paints rely on 20th-century "plastic film" technology, one that eventually becomes brittle and sheds for a variety of reasons. Paint Zero has skipped a generation of chemistry to offer one of the first indoor decorating paints to achieve a Triple Zero profile:

• Zero Microplastics: No synthetic polymer binders to decay into microplastic particles.

• Zero VOCs: Truly odour-free with no chemical outgassing.

• Zero Toxic Biocides: Natural mineral preservation instead of synthetic poisons.

By replacing petrochemical resins with a patented plant-protein and mineral-bound matrix, Paint Zero doesn't just beautify your walls, it hardens into a breathable stone-like coating by absorbing 12 grams of Carbon Dioxide every square meter.

2. Featured in the Official UKRI ‘Future Makers’ Film

Paint Zero’s ‘Triple Zero’ announcement coincides with the premiere of the UK-funded ‘Future Makers’ documentary on 21st January. The film features Paint Zero as a key alternative to conventional plastic paints, highlighting how the global paint industry is facing customer and regulatory pressures for change.

“Our mission was to create a paint that honours the health of the building and its occupants,” Ross Harling of Paint Zero told That's Health.

“By using minerals from the Earth's crust and plant extracts from the Farmer's field, we’ve created a coating that's vapor-permeable and entirely free of the plastics that eventually decay into tiny particles, impacting all of us. Paint Zero is, quite simply, nature on your walls.”

Paint Zero represents a "sea-change" for the paint world, cleaner, lighter, and fundamentally safer for human health- from raw materials to shipping, usage and disposal.

3. Launching the DIY "Hidden Culprit" Check

If you are concerned that the near-invisible shedding of aged paint polymers is already happening in your home or school, you can now take action.

Available today from www.paintzero.com, Paint Zero has launched the DIY Microplastics Audit. These simple screening tools allow families to quickly assess if the plastic paints on their walls have reached their decay point and may be shedding micro-fragments into the air. This audit is the first step in reclaiming a healthy, plastic-free environment for the next generation.

Paint Zero is based in Frome, Somerset and is the pioneer of 100% microplastic-free bio-technology coatings. Packaged as lightweight powders to be mixed with tap water, Paint Zero reduces transport emissions and eliminates throwaway containers through the use of bio-compostable pouches.

DSM Foundation responds to the updated review of ketamine use and harms from the government’s Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs

Recent significant rises in the use of ketamine by young people, and in the harms it can cause, especially regarding bladder damage, dependence, and drug-related deaths, have led to increasing concerns for drug education charity the DSM Foundation.

In their student surveys, ketamine is consistently perceived as the most prevalent substance being used by 15-18 year olds, after alcohol, nicotine and cannabis, overtaking others such as cocaine and MDMA, and this has been part of a bigger picture of concern, with cries for help from parents, teachers and healthcare professionals from across the entire country.

Given this context, the DSM Foundation welcomes the publication of this updated review from the ACMD, commissioned by the government more than a decade after its previous review in 2013. 

This detailed, comprehensive, wide-ranging report on the current context in relation to ketamine provides valuable insights into what the specific issues are, and what the ACMD considers needs doing to address these – which is a lot. 

Although much of the attention surrounding the report will inevitably focus on the recommendation relating to its legal classification, we know that there’s so much more that needs to be done to reduce harm to young people, and this is reflected in the long list of recommendations detailed in the report.

Of course it's the recommendations relating to prevention, education, training, and harm reduction that are of most interest to a drug education charity like the DSM Foundation, because they know how essential this is as part of any response to drug-related harm – and they're already working very hard to enable young people to manage risks specific to ketamine, as part of the broader information, skills and strategies their work always integrates.

The charity has developed specialist content which covers the effects and risks of ketamine, identifying early signs of bladder damage and of possible dependence, as well as decision-making skills and strategies contextualised to ketamine, harm reduction and support seeking. Ketamine-focused workshops have been delivered by the DSM Foundation team in schools from the northeast of Scotland to the southwest of England, and information for young people and parents and caregivers can be found on the website. A free ketamine resource pack for schools will be made available shortly to download from the website, which will include a short staff briefing and resources for teachers to use with students in drug education lessons.

Fiona Spargo-Mabbs OBE, founder and director of the DSM Foundation told That's Health: “As we’ve seen the prevalence of ketamine rising, and the numbers of young people coming to harm growing - and in ways quite unique to this particular substance - we’ve been so concerned to do all we can to work with young people to keep themselves safe.

"We’re all about supporting young people to make safer choices about drugs, but we know how many factors can mitigate against that for young people, and how important effective education is. We very much hope the government responds positively to the strong recommendations the ACMD has made in relation to education, and that a better understanding of what’s already available will lead to the development of more evidence-informed resources and programmes that will support young people, and the important adults in their lives, to reduce risk and harm, and to find support that really helps them should they ever find they need it.”

https://www.dsmfoundation.org.uk

Brownies’ winter sleepout to help older Cumbrians stay warm

A group of kind-hearted Brownies from near Carlisle have raised thousands of pounds to help vulnerable older people stay warm in winter... and they aren’t quite finished yet!

Since 2013, 1st Wetheral Brownies have supported Cumbria Community Foundation’s annual Winter Warmth Appeal, which gives out vital grants to older people to keep them warm and well through the colder months.

The Brownies have held a sponsored sleepout every winter at chilly spots across Cumbria, including Naworth Castle, Netherby Hall, Wetheral Priory Gatehouse and even in tents, on the shores of Windermere.

So far they have raised over £12,000 – and this week they will be digging out their thermals and doing it all again.

Twenty Brownies and Young Leaders from 1st Wetheral will be joined by 10 Brownies and Guides from Hayton to spend the night in a tipi near Brampton. This year’s theme is a Native American Adventure, and the girls have been making dream catchers and totem poles in preparation.

Their leader Janice Brown, AKA Tawny Owl, explained to That's Health: “We've been learning about Native American culture in preparation for our sponsored sleepout this week. 

"The girls have made dream catchers and lanterns, and we’ve been practising our campfire songs and tracking skills, which we will try out in the woods."

She explained why the Brownies support the Winter Warmth Appeal each year, which last winter gave out over £270,000 in grants, benefitting 1,570 vulnerable older people across the county.

“Sleeping out in the cold gives the Brownies a real understanding of what life must be like for older people who can’t afford to heat their homes in winter. So while we always have a lot of fun, the girls know the serious reason for the campaign and do their best to raise as much in sponsorship as possible. They love that the money helps older people in need right here in Cumbria.”

Andy Beeforth, Chief Executive of Cumbria Community Foundation, will be visiting the Brownies at their camp to thank them for their incredible fundraising efforts.

He said: “We have been running the Winter Warmth Appeal since 2010 and have raised in excess of £3m since then. I can honestly say there have been no more dedicated fundraisers in that time than our Brownie friends from Wetheral, and their wonderful volunteer leaders and helpers.

“Unfortunately, the need for the appeal is as great as ever. Every winter, as many as 500 older people in Cumbria die because they cannot afford to heat their homes and eat properly.

“Donations and fundraising by kind-hearted Cumbrians such as the Brownies mean older people won’t have to make the impossible choice of whether to heat their homes or put food on the table.”

The Winter Warmth Appeal is open for donations until March.

How to donate

Donate online: https://cumbriafoundation.enthuse.com/cf/cumbria-winter-warmth-appeal-2025

Donate by phone: Call 01900 825760 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Donate by post: Please make cheques payable to Cumbria Community Foundation, writing ‘Winter Warmth Fund’ on the back, and send to: Cumbria Community Foundation, Dovenby Hall, Dovenby, Cockermouth, CA13 0PN.

Thanks to Special Event Tipis, Shake, Waffle and Roll, Darren Morgan of Talkin Adventures and Border Group Ltd for supporting the Brownies’ sleepout.

How to Reduce Humidity in Your Home

Excess humidity is a common problem in UK homes, especially during colder months when windows stay shut.

Left unchecked, it can lead to condensation, mould, musty smells, and even health issues such as asthma or bronchitis. 

Fortunately, most humidity problems can be tackled with simple, everyday changes.

What Causes High Humidity?

Everyday activities add moisture to the air, including cooking, showering, drying clothes indoors, and even breathing. Poor ventilation, sealed windows, and cold rooms all make the problem worse.

Signs of a Humidity Problem

Condensation on windows

Damp or musty smells

Mould on walls or ceilings

Peeling wallpaper or paint

Rooms feeling cold despite heating

Simple Ways to Reduce Humidity

Open windows daily, even in winter (even just 10–15 minutes helps)

Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms

Keep trickle vents and air bricks clear

Dry clothes near open windows or use a dehumidifier

Use lids on pans and wipe down wet surfaces

Heat rooms evenly to avoid cold spots

Improve airflow by moving furniture away from walls

Use Dehumidifiers Where Needed

Dehumidifiers are especially useful in bedrooms, bathrooms, and poorly ventilated spaces. In colder homes, desiccant models tend to work best.

Aim for Balanced Air

Healthy indoor humidity levels sit between 40–60%. A simple hygrometer can help you keep track.

Why It Matters

Reducing humidity helps protect your home from damage, improves air quality, reduces mould, and supports better breathing and sleep.

A few small changes can make a big difference — fresher air, a healthier home, and fewer damp-related problems year-round.

You can purchase dehumidifiers at this link which might generate a modest income for us https://amzn.to/3LXSkzo