Suicidal thoughts experienced by one in five tinnitus sufferers as new report from Tinnitus UK reveals lack of mental health support for the condition

Tinnitus has significant effects on medical health and wellbeing, resulting in emotional exhaustion, clinical anxiety, clinical depression, & insomnia.

Tinnitus UK, a leading independent charity dedicated to supporting individuals who are coping with tinnitus in the UK has unveiled groundbreaking research which underscores the critical need for enhanced healthcare support and services for those affected by this pervasive condition.

Startling statistics reveal the harsh reality of the tinnitus landscape, impacting 1 in 7 adults in the UK and severely diminishing the quality of life for 1 in 6 of those individuals.

In December 2023, Tinnitus UK conducted a study involving 478 people who are afflicted by tinnitus to delve into their experiences and the challenges they encounter in accessing healthcare support for the condition.

The findings are distressing:

Over one in five respondents experienced thoughts of suicide or self-harm in the last year.

In excess of 8 out of 10 reported low mood or anxiety, with 7 out of 10 feeling hopeless or helpless.

85.7% reported sleep disturbances.

The emotional toll is significant, with 68.4% reporting low self-esteem and 54.9% struggling to think rationally.

Tinnitus is also linked to social isolation, impacting relationships and daily life, with two-thirds of respondents avoiding contact with friends, minimising social activities, or facing difficulties at work.

Despite National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines introduced in March 2020, substantial challenges still persist in healthcare support for tinnitus sufferers.

Half of respondents secured GP appointments within a week, but 16% had to wait for over a month.

Referrals to secondary care decreased to 57.9%, with 11.7% not even offered a referral.

Waiting times for secondary care appointments have increased, with the number of people waiting over a year tripling from 2019 to 2023, to 1 in 6 facing waits of in excess of 12 months.

Limited mental health support is available, with a shockingly low 5% offered Psychological Interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

In response to these alarming findings, Tinnitus UK is calling for immediate action to be taken:

An evaluation of secondary care services and increased investment from commissioning bodies where necessary.

Implementation of a standardised national management model for tinnitus.

Increased tinnitus education for medical professionals.

Commenting on the urgent need for action, Tinnitus UK’s Head of Services, Maisie Carscadden, said: “There's been a noticeable increase in people reaching out to us who require support for the mental health struggles tinnitus has triggered. 

"Their situation is often complex, and people are facing barriers accessing the services they need. We provide guidance, reassurance, and support to help them cope, but a significant number of these people require specialised care from health professionals.

"Unfortunately, the necessary resources are often lacking. Of course, we're dedicated to doing our part, but there needs to be collective efforts to bridge this gap and ensure everyone gets the care they need and that they deservedeserve.”

James Jackson, Reader in Psychology at Leeds Trinity University, added: “While most people will eventually habituate to their tinnitus, it can be very distressing in the short-to-medium term, if not longer. 

"It has significant effects on medical health and wellbeing, resulting in emotional exhaustion, clinical anxiety, clinical depression, and insomnia. It's really vital people have access to timely interventions to ensure the impact on their quality of life is minimised.”

To learn more about Tinnitus UK you can visit http://www.tinnitus.org.uk

As a personal note, I suffer from Tinnitus and it can be an extremely distressing condition.  

New report shows patients value NHS diagnostic services but face barriers to access

Nine out of ten (90%) of the people who completed a recent survey said it should be easier to obtain access to the diagnostic tests they need.

UK patients are calling for better and earlier access to accurate diagnosis of health problems, according to new survey data from the Patients Association.

Many patients would consider paying to get tests done privately if they faced a long wait for NHS tests.

Nine in ten (90%) of UK patients say it should be more straightforward to get the diagnostic tests they need

Three in five (60%) said they would be willing to pay to get a test done if they faced a long wait, or the test they needed wasn't available on the NHS

Over three in five (61%) believed being able to test at home could help speed up diagnosis

Patients want to know how to get the tests they need, why they are having them, and when they can expect results.

The survey, undertaken in partnership with Roche Diagnostics UK and Ireland, represents the views of over 1,000 patients from all over the UK, who had received diagnostic support from the NHS during the preceding six months.

Nine out of ten (90%) of the people who completed the survey said it should be easier to obtain access to the diagnostic tests they need. They also wanted:

Better understanding of why they were being sent for a test

Increased speed and urgency

Improved access

A greater sense of empowerment when it comes to diagnostic tests, results, and subsequent treatment and care.

Access challenges

The findings also demonstrated several challenges experienced by patients in gaining access to diagnostic tests.

One-third of respondents (33%) said when they tried to get a test, they found there were no local  appointments available. This reflects national data on the large numbers of patients unable to access diagnostic tests and services, even before consideration is given to any waiting lists for any treatment they may require.

Almost four in five (78%) patients felt testing facilities should be provided closer to patients’ homes to make access easier

Seven in ten (70%) wanted a clearer understanding of how to access tests. Some respondents highlighted services are sometimes not available as advertised.

Speed and urgency of access to testing was another significant problem identified by survey. Only one in ten (11%) of respondent said they have never had any issues getting either a test or their results, or faced no consequences if they did.

For those living with long-term conditions, delays and difficulties in accessing diagnosis have had significant consequences. Nearly one in five (17%) respondents said their long-term recovery was significantly set back. Many more reported consequences for their mental and physical health, and their wider work and family life.

Respondents were also unhappy about a lack of access to, and clear explanation of, test results. Almost nine in ten (88%) patients wanted a realistic timeline for their test results to come back and a similar number (87%) called for a better explanation of what those results meant for them and for their treatment.

Patient-created solutions

The survey discovered patients are finding ways around the challenges they face. For example, when asked whether they'd be willing to pay to get a test done privately if they faced a long wait or if the test needed wasn't available on the NHS, three in five (60%) of respondents said they would. This included patients who didn't consider themselves to be ‘rich’.

The finding that so many patients would consider paying for tests shows the importance they place on getting a timely, accurate diagnosis, even if they had to pay.

Sustainable solutions

The survey’s results show many patients have a clear view on how diagnostic services in the UK could be improved.

Being able to test at home was seen as one way to make services more accessible. Nearly two thirds (61%) of respondents believed expanding options to test at home could help speed up diagnosis. When asked about specific examples, the numbers were even higher, perhaps building on our collective experience of testing at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over three quarters (77%) said they'd be happy to test themselves at home.

Investing in diagnostics and new technology was supported by most of the respondents. For example, over half (57%) the respondents felt the use of new technology such as AI could speed up diagnosis and reduce pressures on the NHS. A significant and important factor since nearly one-third (29%) said they delayed seeking tests to avoid wasting NHS time and resources.

Looking to the future

Almost nine in ten (86%) felt testing and diagnosing conditions more quickly would help reduce the NHS backlog. While patients want to feel more empowered in taking charge of their own health, they are also keen solutions are sought to support NHS efficiency and sustainability over the longer-term.

Rachel Power, the CEO of the Patient Association, said:  “Patients value diagnostic services. And that’s very clear from our survey. 

"Frustrations about access to tests came over loud and clear. Those taking the survey obviously value being partners in their care. And to partner with the professionals sending them for tests, patients need and want clear communication on how to get the tests, why they need tests, and when they’ll get the results. Healthcare professionals can improve patient-centred care when ordering diagnostic tests by explaining how, why and when.”

Said Geoff Twist, the MD of Roche Diagnostics, UK & Ireland: “Tests that detect or diagnose disease early, or in some cases prevent it, can play a vital role in the patient journey, and also helping the health system work more efficiently. 

"This report shows patients see and understand the importance of diagnostic tests, and that they will proactively seek them out to find the answers they need about their health. The message is clear. But to realise this we need a renewed policy focus, setting out how we can speed up getting existing diagnostic tests and innovations to the people who need them. Prioritising diagnostic services can help to relieve some of the pressure on our NHS today and protect it for generations to come.”

You can download the Patient Experience of Diagnostics Report here: https://www.patients-association.org.uk/Handlers/Download.ashx?IDMF=224074b2-a4cc-4b58-986c-69635ec57e3a

That's Food and Drink: Digestive problems at the menopause

That's Food and Drink: Digestive problems at the menopause: Tummy pain? Running to the loo? Feeling bloated? Many women develop an irritable bowel when they reach their 40s and beyond.  But how do you...

Nurturing the Gut: The Link Between Gut Health and Overall Wellness

In recent years, the phrase "gut health" has become increasingly popular, permeating discussions ranging from nutrition and fitness to mental well-being. 

But what exactly is gut health, and why does it matter? As science delves deeper into the intricate workings of our bodies, it's becoming increasingly clear that the health of our gut plays a pivotal role in our overall wellness.

The gut, often referred to as the "second brain," is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota or gut microbiome. These microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, which coexist in a delicate balance within our digestive tract. While some of these microorganisms are potentially harmful, many are beneficial and play crucial roles in digestion, immune function, and even mood regulation.

So, how does gut health impact overall wellness? Let's explore some key connections:

Digestive Health: The most obvious link between gut health and overall wellness is digestive health. A healthy gut microbiome helps break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste efficiently. When the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted, it can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas,diarrhoea, or constipation.

Immune Function: Surprisingly, a significant portion of our immune system resides in the gut. The gut microbiome interacts with immune cells, helping to distinguish between harmful pathogens and beneficial substances. A healthy gut microbiome can strengthen the immune system, reducing the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.

Mental Health: The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network between the gut and the brain. Emerging research suggests that the gut microbiome can influence mood, behaviour, and cognitive function. Imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Weight Management: Some studies have found associations between gut microbiota composition and weight regulation. Certain bacteria may affect metabolism, appetite, and fat storage, influencing body weight and composition. A healthy gut microbiome could potentially support weight management efforts.

Inflammation and Chronic Disease: Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation throughout the body. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut bacteria, can contribute to chronic inflammation and increase the risk of developing these diseases.

Given the profound impact of gut health on overall wellness, it's essential to prioritize practices that support a healthy gut microbiome:

Diet: A diverse diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods nourishes beneficial gut bacteria. Probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can introduce beneficial microbes into the gut.

Probiotics: What are probiotics? Probiotics are live microorganisms intended to have health benefits when consumed. They can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods, dietary supplements, etc.

Prebiotics: Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. Sources of prebiotics include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, and whole grains.

Limiting Antibiotics: While antibiotics are lifesaving medications, they can also disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. Whenever possible, it's essential to use antibiotics judiciously and pair them with probiotics to support gut health.

Stress Management: Chronic stress can adversely affect gut health by altering gut motility, increasing inflammation, and disrupting the gut microbiome. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can help mitigate stress and promote gut health.

In conclusion, nurturing our gut health is paramount for overall wellness. By fostering a diverse and balanced gut microbiome, we can enhance digestion, strengthen immunity, support mental health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Through mindful lifestyle choices and dietary habits, we can cultivate a harmonious relationship with our gut, paving the way for optimal health and vitality.

Remember, a healthy gut is not just a matter of digestion—it's the foundation of well-being.

Stay gut-healthy, stay well!

(Image courtesy of  Julien Tromeur from Pixabay)

Hydration: The Unsung Hero of Overall Health

In the vast array of health advice, one fundamental aspect often overlooked is hydration. It’s the silent hero that keeps our bodies functioning optimally, yet it’s easy to underestimate its importance. 

From maintaining bodily functions to supporting mental clarity, the benefits of staying hydrated are boundless. Let’s dive into why hydration is not just a mundane task but a cornerstone of overall health.

The Body's Lifeline

Water is the elixir of life. Our bodies are composed of approximately 60% water, highlighting its crucial role in sustaining life. Every cell, tissue, and organ relies on water to function efficiently. From regulating temperature to cushioning joints and protecting vital organs, water is the body's lifeline.

Physical Performance Booster

For athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike, proper hydration is key to achieving peak performance. Even mild dehydration can impair physical performance, leading to decreased endurance, strength, and coordination. By staying hydrated, athletes can maintain optimal performance levels, prevent fatigue, and reduce the risk of injuries.

Mental Clarity and Focus

Just as the body requires water to function, so does the brain. Dehydration can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulties in concentration, memory, and mood regulation. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can negatively impact brain performance, making it harder to focus and retain information. By keeping hydrated, individuals can enhance mental clarity, productivity, and overall cognitive function.

Weight Management

Believe it or not, staying hydrated can aid in weight management. Water acts as a natural appetite suppressant, helping to curb cravings and reduce calorie intake. Moreover, staying hydrated can boost metabolism, aiding in the body's ability to burn calories more efficiently. By choosing water over sugary beverages, individuals can support their weight loss or maintenance goals effectively.

Detoxification and Digestion

Hydration plays a crucial role in the body's natural detoxification processes. Water helps flush out toxins and waste products through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements. Additionally, adequate hydration supports proper digestion by facilitating the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. By drinking enough water, individuals can support their body's natural detoxification and digestive processes, promoting overall gut health.

Maintaining Fluid Balance

The body continuously loses water through sweat, urine, and even breathing. To maintain optimal health, it's essential to replenish lost fluids by staying hydrated. Adequate hydration helps maintain fluid balance in the body, ensuring proper circulation, nutrient transportation, and waste removal. By drinking water regularly, individuals can prevent dehydration and its associated health risks.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

Now that we understand the importance of hydration, how can we ensure we're getting enough water? Here are some simple tips to help you stay hydrated throughout the day:

Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go, making it easy to sip water throughout the day.

Set reminders on your phone or use apps to prompt you to drink water at regular intervals.

Infuse your water with fruits or herbs to add flavour and encourage consumption.

Eat water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables, which can contribute to your overall hydration.

Monitor the color of your urine – pale yellow or straw-colored urine indicates adequate hydration, while dark yellow urine may signal dehydration.

Hydration is not just a mundane task; it's a vital component of overall health and well-being. From supporting bodily functions to enhancing mental clarity and aiding in weight management, the benefits of staying hydrated are undeniable. 

By prioritizing hydration and adopting simple strategies to ensure adequate water intake, individuals can optimise their health and vitality for years to come. So, raise a glass to hydration – the unsung hero of overall health!

(Image courtesy 926663 from Pixabay)

Biomay Announces its Successful Support of Approval of First CRISPR/Cas9-based Therapy

Biomay, a biotech contract development and manufacturing organisation based in Vienna, Austria, announces successful completion of an FDA inspection qualifying Biomay as a cGMP manufacturer and supplier of recombinant nuclease Cas9 for use in gene editing therapies.

As part of an ongoing cooperation initially dating back to 2017, Biomay has manufactured and delivered Cas9 in the course of Vertex´and CRISPR Therapeutics’ clinical development of exagamglogene autotemcel (CASGEVY®), a gene edited therapy for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD) and transfusion dependent beta-thalassemia (TDT). CASGEVY® is the first CRISPR/Cas9-based therapy to receive marketing approval from the FDA, MHRA and positive CHMP opinion from the EMA.

Biomay has developed and validated a Cas9 manufacturing process together with the associated analytical quality control methods. This included the construction of an E. coli expression system, GMP cell banking, upstream and downstream development, as well as the establishment of a comprehensive set of analytical quality control methods. 

An in-depth product and process characterization program, analytical method validation, as well as full manufacturing process validation have been performed. Recently, the U.S. FDA completed a Pre-License Inspection of Biomay´s facilities and systems in the context of Vertex’s Biologics License Applications (BLAs) for exagamglogene autotemcel (CASGEVY®).

Biomay´s CEO, Hans Huber, PhD, stated: “We are pleased Biomay has successfully completed the inspection by the FDA. This inspection represents a significant milestone for Biomay. It underscores our unwavering commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and the highest standards in all our operations.

Angela Neubauer, SVP Client Business at Biomay added: “We are very excited about the news of the first CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing therapy entering the market. We are proud of having successfully supported our clients in reaching that goal, for the benefits of numerous patients.”

www.biomay.com

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