Health News
9/17/2025

RFK Jr. pulls funding for mRNA vaccines as scientists pursue breakthrough treatments for HIV, cancer, the flu and more



Confused by the new COVID vaccine guidelines? Here's what you need to know.



Making sense of the showdown at the CDC



Hand soap recalled nationwide over bacterial contamination that could cause sepsis. Here's a list of the affected products.



Chagas disease, a deadly infection caused by ‘kissing bugs,’ may have taken root in the U.S., researchers say



What you should know if there's no sexual attraction for your partner, according to a therapist


Why would a person pick a potential life partner without feeling the spark of sexual attraction? And can these relationships survive and thrive? Can sexual attraction be cultivated later? Therapist Ian Kerner shares what he's learned in his practice.

If you think you can't focus for long, you're right


Your attention span has shrunk by nearly two minutes in the past 20 years, driven in part by technology's hold over your work and home life, experts say. Here's how to stay focused so you can get things done.

How to cool down without AC


No air conditioning? Here are 14 methods for cooling your body and buffering your house from the outside heat.

The benefits of 'body doubling' when you have ADHD, according to experts


'Body doubling' is a strategy people with ADHD can use to accomplish more than they would alone. Here's how to do it.

The planet is getting hotter fast. This is what happens to your body in extreme heat


Human-caused climate change has already made heat waves around the world more frequent and intense.

What a medication abortion is like, according to a doctor


An expert in medication abortion describes how mifepristone and misoprostol work and what to expect after using these medications known as the "abortion pill."

8 activewear brands you should add to your workout wardrobe


The increasing popularity of stylish, trendy athletic wear has made über-comfortable clothing something that's not just for the gym. It's infiltrated all corners of culture, from high fashion runways to the offices of Silicon Valley executives — and really, it's appropriate for any occasion when you just want to be comfortable.

The best coupons at CVS Pharmacy



Your guide to finding the right Theragun massage gun for you



This bat fossil could fill in a piece of the evolutionary puzzle


Two 52 million-year-old bat skeletons discovered in an ancient lake bed in Wyoming are the oldest bat fossils ever found — and they reveal a new species.

How long you can use vintage Tupperware


Since Tupperware, the iconic kitchen brand that's been a household name for decades, signaled recently that it might be going out of business, you might be wondering how long your stash of its food storage containers is safe to use — especially if it's vintage.

Why we have nightmares and how to stop them


We leave behind our fears of monsters under the bed as we say goodbye to our childhoods, but one can follow us into adulthood and loom over our heads.

Paper airplane breaks a world distance record


It's a bird... It's a plane... It's a paper airplane!

Desperate for heart surgery for their baby, a family feels the effects of pediatric hospital shortages


Even before their daughter was born in June, Aaron and Helen Chavez knew she would need heart surgery. Doctors expected her to have an operation around 6 months of age.

Fuzzy first photo of a black hole gets a sharp makeover


The first photo ever taken of a black hole looks a little sharper now.

Experimental therapy gantenerumab fails to slow or improve Alzheimer's memory loss in clinical trials


An experimental treatment, gantenerumab, failed to help people at high risk of memory loss from Alzheimer's or those who were in the early phases of the disease, the manufacturer said Monday.

US gets D+ grade for rising preterm birth rates, new report finds


The rate of premature birth in the United States is climbing, according to the infant and maternal health nonprofit March of Dimes.

Covid-19 boosters could keep thousands of kids out of hospitals, but uptake remains low


Higher Covid-19 vaccination rates among US children could prevent thousands of pediatric hospitalizations and millions of missed school days, according to an analysis published Tuesday by the Commonwealth Fund and the Yale School of Public Health.

RSV hospitalization rate for seniors is 10 times higher than usual for this point in the season


The respiratory virus season has started early in kids this year and flooded children's hospitals in many parts of the country -- especially with respiratory syncytial virus, known as RSV.

I quit my job to run a silent disco exercise group


The Silent Steppers began in 2024 to promote physical and mental wellbeing.

'Hoarding was a way to protect myself from the world'


Hoarding is often misunderstood, but it can be a symptom of deep trauma. One woman shares how hoarding impacted her life - and her road to recovery.

Let's have a conversation about periods


Three teenage girls talk to 5 Live about the importance of safe and open conversations on topics such as hormones, periods and mental health.

Why you might not need that magnesium supplement...


Drs Chris and Xand sit down with Professor Stella Volpe, the Head of the department of Nutrition, Food and Exercise at Virginia Tech in the US.

Inside Health


We investigate the safety of melatonin as a sleep aid, and should you eat your placenta?

Inside Health


We try to figure out why drug deaths are at an all-time high - and what can be done.

How gaming can be good for your mental health


Psychologist and gaming expert Nick Ballou has five ways how gaming can boost your mental health and wellbeing.

Inside Health


Cystic fibrosis care, AI in cancer screening & science of run clubs.

Inside Health


Shingles vaccine to reduce dementia risk? Antibiotic resistant gonorrhoea & tech trousers

Art charity 'buzzing' about opening of new £75m campus


Art Shape works with the NHS to deliver creative courses as prescriptions.

How a 'seated salsa' can help your lower back


It's hard to tone your lower back muscles, but this handy exercise can help.

One way Michael Rosen has coped with the death of his son


"You don’t die as a human being, you live on with others," Rosen told Saturday Live.

Gym with wellbeing focus welcomes lottery boost


The Soma Space offers combined strength training and psychotherapy, and prospective clients can be referred.

Wellbeing walking maps to encourage green travel


The illustrated walking maps guide people along four car-free routes in and around Tewkesbury.

Women's healthcare chronically underfunded, says Melinda French Gates


The billionaire philanthropist is donating $50m to research the issue, as part of a larger $1bn pledge.

Which mammals have periods like humans?


Dr Chi Eziefula, a menstrual health expert, explains which mammals menstruate - and how their cycles differ from other animals.

Let's have a conversation about periods


Three teenage girls talk to 5 Live about the importance of safe and open conversations on topics such as hormones, periods and mental health.

Hospital opens room for miscarriage support


The space will provide "compassionate care during a profoundly difficult time", says a ward sister.

Woman loses faith in hospital after miscarriage


Emma Simmonds says she will never return to the hospital, this week rated England's worst.

Covid inquiry told of trust do-not-resuscitate rule


Patients' families were “horrified but not surprised” when told the blanket policy had been in place.

We were not treated as parents, Covid inquiry told


Mum of premature twins says rigid restrictions on birthing wards during Covid were traumatic.

Covid inquiry told top NHS doctor was terrified


Sir Stephen Powis says points-based tool was drawn up should need to prioritise patients have arisen.

How close were hospitals to collapse in Covid?


The Covid inquiry restarts its live hearings this week, after senior staff in the NHS revealed just how close some hospitals were to collapse

Large UK-wide pandemic preparedness tests planned this year


The stress test will involve thousands of people to help the UK prepare for potential future threats.

Families failed by Covid jabs tell inquiry of pain


They said there was no support after the death and harm suffered by their loved ones.

NHS hours from PPE running out in Covid - Hancock


Former health secretary tells inquiry some healthcare settings did run out - "and it was awful".

Covid inquiry told Treasury blocked NHS bed request


NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard says the decision, in July 2020, was very disappointing.

Mone accuses Covid inquiry of 'cover-up'


She says husband Doug Barrowman and her are targets of a "politically motivated witch hunt".

Michael Gove denies trying to circumvent Dyson ventilator checks


Former cabinet minister says it would be ludicrous to suggest he tried to shortcut safety checks in the pandemic.

Michelle Mone-linked PPE firm evidence to be heard in private


Covid inquiry says hearings into the firm, led by Michelle Mone's husband, must be held in closed session.

Hancock criticises 'wholly naive' Covid inquiry


The former health secretary was giving evidence about medical equipment deals during the pandemic.

The Covid Inquiry Podcast: 'I wasn't the decision maker'


The Inquiry hears from the lead of the test and trace unit

Cash to isolate 'would have cut Covid deaths'


Baroness Dido Harding tells Covid inquiry Rishi Sunak blocked higher support payments.

Johnson wanted tighter Covid rules, inquiry hears


In his diaries, Lord Vallance wrote that ex-PM thought rules were not ruthless enough.

Covid inquiry hears of 'generational slaughter'


Relatives of care home residents tell the Covid inquiry they will never get over how their loved ones died.

Covid inquiry to look at impact on care services


The Covid inquiry will examine the impact of the pandemic on care services, starting on Monday.

The doctor strike has ended - what comes next?


With doctors returning to work after five-day walkout, is there an opportunity for talks to re-start?

Why did resident doctors strike and what are they paid?


Resident doctors in England went on strike over pay for five days at the end of July 2025.

Covid care home policy was 'least worst decision' - Hancock


Former health secretary Matt Hancock denied claims the government's attempt to throw a protective ring around care homes in early 2020 was empty rhetoric.

Union and government to restart talks on ending doctor dispute


BMA says there is window of opportunity in coming weeks to reach a settlement after 12 strikes.

Doctors' union agrees to resume talks with Streeting


But the health secretary says he will not negotiate on pay, adding that the union has lost goodwill with their five-day walkout.

NHS needs better plan around weight loss jabs, warn experts


Experts call for an urgent review of obesity treatment services amid booming demand for weight loss jabs.

How many of us will end up being diagnosed with ADHD?


Experts suggest that the number of people with ADHD is actually going to remain steady.

The junior doctors' strikes may be over. But is trouble ahead?


The end of the pay dispute sounded too good to be true. And now some are wondering if it might be.

Is the system letting down people who were harmed by Covid vaccines?


People affected by rare blood clots say they feel they have been airbrushed out of the pandemic.

How will weight-loss drugs change our relationship with food?


The rise of these treatments has major implications for how we think about obesity, says James Gallagher.

Generation K: The disturbing rise of ketamine abuse among young people


Increasing numbers of young people are using the drug, experts say. The health impacts can be catastrophic.

Assisted dying bill: What is in proposed law?


The proposed law would allow some terminally ill adults to end their own lives. But there are requirements.

'My first cervical screening was over before I knew it'


The BBC speaks to six people about their first cervical screening, and what they wish they'd known beforehand.

Labour's plan for benefits throws up a bigger dilemma


The debate has sparked a wider dilemma about the broader purpose of welfare

First place in British Isles set to approve right to die


Laws in the Isle of Man to let terminally ill adults end their own lives are in the last stages of debate.

Ketamine helped me escape my negative thoughts - then it nearly killed me


Young people are taking dangerous amounts of ket because it's cheap, easily available and helps them "disconnect", experts say.

The English neighbourhood that claims to hold the secret to fixing the NHS


With public satisfaction in the NHS just 21%, one area has a plan to shake up its services that could reduce GP waiting lists, as well as unblock hospital beds - but can it really work nationwide?

How does the disposable vape ban work, and how harmful is vaping?


The disposable vape ban is designed to reduce environmental damage and protect children's health.

Sleep, exercise, hydrate - do we really need to stick to recommended daily doses?


As a study casts doubt on the daily steps maxim, we take a look at some other health benchmarks we’re often told to strive for.

Is the most expensive lip balm always the best?


Do you need to spend more to get the best for your chapped lips?

Emma is doing something she swore she never would - buying her kids vapes


One month on from the disposable vape ban, one mum says it has had little impact on her children's nicotine consumption.

What is chickenpox and how can I get my child vaccinated?


The NHS in England and Wales will start offering the MMRV vaccine to young children from January 2026.

The teenage caffeine pouch trend troubling US experts


Some social media influencers are pushing products to young gym-goers and students, health experts warn.

Is RFK Jr's divisive plan to Make America Healthy Again fearmongering - or revolutionary?


The most powerful public health official in the US is reviled by some medics - but even some of his critics accept that he is bringing drive to healthcare areas that have long been neglected

How is your hospital doing as NHS battles to bring down waiting times?


Use our interactive tracker to see if treatment waits are getting better at your local hospital

Vaccine roll-outs cut deaths by 60% - study


The study looked at vaccines deployed during outbreaks of five deadly diseases.

South Africans fear spike in HIV infections as US aid cuts bite


South Africa has been at the forefront of the successful battle to halt the spread of HIV/Aids - until now.

Why are measles cases rising in the UK?


What are the symptoms of measles and how dangerous is the disease?

Alzheimer's has isolated us, says Fiona Phillips' husband


Martin Frizell has spoken of the social isolation faced by the couple since the former GMTV presenter was diagnosed.

Babies made using three people's DNA are born free of hereditary disease


The method was pioneered by UK scientists to overcome devastating, often fatal inherited diseases.

NHS tracker - are hospital waiting times improving near you?


Use our interactive tracker to see if treatment waits are getting better at your local hospital.

Could RFK Jr's move to pull mRNA vaccine funding be a huge miscalculation?


The US is withdrawing $500m for vaccines for diseases like flu and Covid. Health correspondent James Gallagher asks if it's the right call.

Why we need to talk about periods, breasts and injuries in women's sport


Understanding the pressure elite sport puts on women’s bodies is pushing athletes to new levels of excellence.

Students feel 'let down' by mental health support - but should it really be up to universities?


The number of students reporting mental health concerns is rising. But to what extent should the onus be on universities?

A walk-in fishermen's clinic saved Tom from sepsis - and could transform the NHS


Tom Parker was treated in one of 70 harbour health clinics after breaking his fibula fishing at sea.

Lucy Letby's new expert supporters claim no babies were deliberately harmed. Who should we believe?


Barrister Mark McDonald claims to have the backing of a panel of world class experts who say there is no evidence any babies were deliberately harmed

Drinks that make you chill - do they really do what it says on the tin?


The wellness drinks industry is booming – but the big benefits they promise might be too good to be true.

The trade in US body parts that's completely legal - but ripe for exploitation


Human remains can mean profits. But there is an emotional debate about the ethics of the industry.

Sitting up straight isn't the only secret to good posture - here are three more tips


Here are Dr Xand's three suggestions on how to look after your back without turning into a statue.

Will Serena Williams's weight-loss admission help shed stigma of anti-obesity drugs?


Could her comments instil a new sense of confidence in those using the drugs and quieten the critics?

Cut and bulk: Teenagers explain why they want to get ripped


The quest for brick-like abs has become serious business - even if you're only in Year 8.

Why the world is watching RFK's fight with US health agency


The US health secretary's plans could have a huge impact on health policy not just in the US, but across the globe.

Hospital pays out after bacteria-linked deaths


Nine families receive compensation after the outbreak linked to a Cambridge-based hospital.

Warning issued over branded kids' magnesium gummies


An undeclared drug that can cause drowsiness and headaches has been found in Nutrition Ignition supplements.

Seven-week wait for some red flag cancer patients 'frustrating'


The target set by the Department of Health for patients red flagged for breast cancer to be assessed is 14 days.

Brain image doctor banned for assault and racism


Dr Sayed Talibi is told his conduct was "fundamentally incompatible" with being a doctor.

Pine nuts and goat's milk should get allergy labels, say experts


Warnings for some 'emerging' food allergens should be added to food packaging, researchers suggest.

Price of Mounjaro to be discounted in UK pharmacies


The rebate allays fears of a 170% price rise but patients are warned the cost of the drug will still jump.

AI stethoscope could detect major heart conditions in seconds


The new technology could be a "game-changer" resulting in patients being treated sooner, experts say.

Children to be offered chickenpox vaccine on NHS


All young children in England and Wales will be offered a free chickenpox vaccine by the NHS from January 2026.

Adults with learning disabilities die 20 years early, report finds


People with learning disabilities and autism die almost 20 years younger than the rest of the population.

Vaccination plea after baby's 'terrifying' measles


Eight areas in the North East and Cumbria have seen a slight or moderate increase in MMR jab rates.

Energy drinks to be banned for under-16s in England


Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said he was acting on concerns for children's health.

Organ transplants for immortality: Might Xi and Putin be onto something?


The presidents of China and Russia were overheard discussing transplants as a way to prolong life.

'My son's constipation wasn't taken seriously until he reached crisis point'


The number of children being admitted to hospital with constipation is at a 10-year high.

Deodorant firm sorry after 'itchy, burning armpits' claims


Mitchum said a change in the manufacturing process had affected some of its roll-on products after users complained of soreness.

Error leaves 55,000 diabetes patients needing new tests


Errors by diabetes analysis machines mean at least 55,000 people in England will need further hospital tests.

Disabled NHS medic told she's 'not a real doctor'


Disabled and neurodivergent doctors say the lack of reasonable adjustments is pushing some out.

Fertility clinics must stop unproven treatments, watchdog warns


The draft guidance advises against many popular but unproven fertility add-ons offered by clinics.

Best and worst-performing NHS Trusts in England named


Critics question the usability of new league tables meant to inform the public and let them exercise choice.

What the NHS can learn from the European country that helped more people survive cancer


Denmark's survival rates record for certain cancers were poor compared to some other wealthy countries. Then it came up with a bold plan

Alzheimer's blood test could 'revolutionise' diagnosis


Scientists leading the trial at University College London believe the blood test could improve the accuracy of diagnosis of the disease to more than 90%.

Maternity review 'will not deliver justice' - mum


Lauren Caulfield was cared for at NHS hospitals in Leeds and Bradford before her daughter's death.

Severe inequality in London for weight loss drugs


Interest in the drugs has risen but patients face a "postcode lottery" when trying to access them.

'Something had been stolen from me' - children share the lows - and highs - of pandemic


Children describe positive memories of family time, as well as the darker side of pandemic life online.

Fourteen NHS trusts' maternity care to be investigated over 'failures'


Families impacted have criticised the review, calling it "not fit for purpose".

Surgeries cancelled as hospital IT issues expected to continue


The majority of planned surgery and out-patient hospital appointments in the Southern Trust are being cancelled for Thursday.

Thousands of opioid deaths missed off official figures


The error - affecting England and Wales - raises concerns about the impact on the government's approach to drug deaths.

AI can forecast your future health – just like the weather


An artificial intelligence model can predict the risk of more than 1,000 diseases, a team of scientists say.

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