Meloni Weighs Further Aviation Moves After Italian Price Caps
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s decree capping ticket prices from Italy’s mainland to the islands of Sicily and
2023-08-30 12:46
MRI screening for prostate cancer could help save lives, study finds
Using MRI scans to screen men for prostate cancer could reduce deaths from the disease “significantly”, researchers have suggested. Scientists said current tests, which detect the level of the protein prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, have been linked to over-diagnosis and over-treatment of low-risk cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in men and, at the moment, those aged over 50 can request a PSA test if they are experiencing symptoms. The Reimagine study invited 303 men aged between 50 and 75 to have a screening MRI and a PSA test. Of the total, 48 (16 per cent) had an MRI that indicated the presence of prostate cancer despite having a median PSA density. Of the group, 32 had lower PSA levels than the current screening benchmark of 3ng/ml, meaning they would not have been referred for further investigation. After NHS assessment, 29 men were diagnosed with cancer that required treatment, 15 of whom had serious cancer and a PSA of less than 3ng/ml. Three men (1 per cent) were diagnosed with low-risk cancer that did not require treatment. Our results give an early indication that MRI could offer a more reliable method of detecting potentially serious cancers early Prof Caroline Moore The study was led by University College London, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College London and is published in medical journal BMJ Oncology. Prof Caroline Moore, consultant surgeon at UCLH, chief investigator of the study and NIHR research professor, said the findings are “sobering” and “reiterates the need to consider a new approach to prostate cancer screening”. “Our results give an early indication that MRI could offer a more reliable method of detecting potentially serious cancers early, with the added benefit that less than 1 per cent of participants were ‘over-diagnosed’ with low-risk disease,” she added. Prof Mark Emberton, consultant urologist at UCLH, said: “The UK prostate cancer mortality rate is twice as high as in countries like the US or Spain because our levels of testing are much lower than other countries. “Given how treatable prostate cancer is when caught early, I’m confident that a national screening programme will reduce the UK’s prostate cancer mortality rate significantly. There is a lot of work to be done to get us to that point, but I believe this will be possible within the next five to ten years.” Nick James, a professor of prostate and bladder cancer research at the Institute of Cancer Research in London said the study “further reinforces the value of MRI in the diagnostic pathway for prostate cancer”. “The well-known limitations of the old PSA-based screening studies of over- diagnosis and linked over-treatment are increasingly mitigated by the use of MRI,” he added. “Similarly, MRI can also spot cases of prostate cancer in patients with normal PSA levels, who would have been missed using PSA only screening programmes.” MRI scans have revolutionised the way we diagnose prostate cancer, and it’s great to see research into how we might use these scans even more effectively Simon Grieveson, Prostate Cancer UK Prof Sir Mike Richards, chairman of the UK National Screening Committee (NSC), said the organisation does not currently recommend prostate cancer screening “because there is no clear evidence that the benefits outweigh the harms”. However, it is preparing to look at various proposals. He added: “The UK NSC will soon commission a major piece of work to consider six prostate cancer screening proposals that were submitted during its annual call for topics. “These include targeted and risk-stratified screening proposals for screening groups of men at higher risk due to factors such as ethnicity and family history.” Simon Grieveson, assistant director of research at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “MRI scans have revolutionised the way we diagnose prostate cancer, and it’s great to see research into how we might use these scans even more effectively. “These results are extremely exciting, and we now want to see much larger, UK-wide studies to understand if using MRI as the first step in getting tested could form the basis of a national screening programme.” Another trial, known as Limit, is being conducted with a much larger number of patients, which the research team said is the “next step towards a national prostate screening programme”. The trial will also attempt to recruit more black men, after the team behind Reimagine found they were much less likely to respond to the invitation to screening than others. Saran Green of King’s College London said: “One in four black men will get prostate cancer during their lifetime, which is double the number of men from other ethnicities. “Given this elevated risk, and the fact that black men were five times less likely to sign up for the Reimagine trial than white men, it will be crucial that any national screening programme includes strategies to reach black men and encourage more of them to come forward for testing.”
2023-08-22 14:58
Who is Celeste Burgess? Nebraska woman sentenced to 90 days for burning and disposing fetus after illegal abortion
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2023-07-21 16:58
Why does BookTok care about the NHL?
TikTok's drama of the moment is truly a doozy. For the uninformed, the combination of
2023-08-04 02:54
The Disputed Truth Behind the Cheetos Underdog Movie 'Flamin' Hot'
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Tempted to try barefoot running? Here’s what you need to know
Barefoot running seems to be rising in popularity, with fans hailing its many benefits – and some even tackling entire marathons without shoes. The thought of bare soles beating the pavement may leave many people wincing, and there are certainly things to consider before giving it a go. But the idea of exploring the most natural way to move – with our primitive bare feet on the ground – could be tempting too. So, what is the deal with barefoot running, and is it worth it? Are there any benefits to barefoot running? “Barefoot running really helps us reconnect with nature,” says Sammy Margo, a physiotherapist working with muscle and joint care specialists Deep Freeze and Deep Heat. For many, this is a big part of the appeal – and some fans of barefoot running say they’ve experienced benefits to their running form too. It’s important to remember our bodies may all respond differently to pressure and force, however, so how we react to barefoot running may vary. “The body, muscles, and joints will take on the ground pressure differently,” says podiatrist Dina Gohil, brand ambassador for CCS Foot Care. “Some people may experience improvement in pain in certain areas, and vice versa. The body works together and force is distributed to the best of your body’s ability to enable the movement you’re trying to achieve.” If you can physically feel your feet hitting the ground however, in theory, your body may become more aware of those forces and movement patterns. “Going shoe-free can help with your awareness of the position and movement of your body – proprioception. Exercising barefoot can also help restore natural running patterns and strides,” Gohil explains. For example, she adds: “Being barefoot can actually allow you to be more conscious of how the heel strikes on the ground, and at what pace and strength. So doing activities barefoot can help strengthen the foot and ankle, improve muscle strength, increase flexibility, and allow for proper movement.” Will you notice other changes? According to barefoot runners, the soles of your feet will also become a lot more resilient over time. “The best way to toughen feet is to try and walk on as many different surfaces as possible. Some people have also used newspapers on the ground to walk on to help with this process,” says Gohil. The muscles in your legs will develop differently too. Margo says: “Running barefoot also activates smaller muscles in our legs and feet, helping to improve strength and overall mobility.” Are there any risks or cons to think about? While many runners experience a range of benefits from going barefoot, there are certainly potential risks to consider. First and foremost, there’s the risk of wounding yourself if you stamp on something sharp – so always be sensible when choosing where to run barefoot. “Until your feet become acclimatised, you may find you are more prone to blisters until firmer skin or calluses have formed,” says Gohil. “There is also the increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis on the sole and heel of the foot. Other problems might include blisters, callus, cuts, infection, Achilles tendonitis, tight lower leg muscles, or stress fractures.” Margo adds: “As our muscles are working harder, [they] may become shorter and tighter, and you may feel some pain initially when you start barefoot running.” Having the support and comfort of a well-fitting running shoe can also be vital for many runners, particularly if you have a history of injuries or joint problems – so it’s advisable to speak with a healthcare professional before you attempt barefoot running. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live How can you get rid of acne scars? From serums to laser treatments, experts talk through the options 5 viral TikTok fake tanning tips for the perfect summer glow Not got the A-level grades you needed? Here’s how to get started with the clearing process
2023-08-18 15:53
Taking a daily multivitamin appears to boost brains of adults over 60, but more study is needed
A new study shows a daily multivitamin may boost memory function in some people, although the results don't change recommendations about use of the supplements
2023-05-25 03:28
Fed's preferred inflation gauge shows a modest rise in latest sign of slowing price increases
An inflation gauge closely tracked by the Federal Reserve remained low last month, adding to signs of cooling price increases and raising the likelihood that the Fed will leave interest rates unchanged when it next meets in late September
2023-08-31 21:23
Festival fashion isn’t just about ripping off Kate Moss… it might not even exist anymore
Crop tops. Denim cut-offs. Someone else’s wellies. In 2023, festival fashion has officially become a tired sport. Even the words themselves carry connotations that seem to have fallen far out of sync with the sartorial zeitgeist. Is anyone still slathering themselves in glitter? Do we still care about sequins and novelty sunglasses? And surely we’ve all long-tired of neon by now? With Glastonbury Festival underway this weekend, all of this begs one crucial, singular question: Does festival fashion still exist? The fashion industry’s growing environmental conscience might provide an answer. Today, it’s much cooler to source your wardrobe from the likes of Depop and your local charity shop than Asos or Big Topshop (RIP). We fell out of love with fast fashion some time ago and, as a result, generally far more considerate consumers when it comes to our clothing. This is, of course, a very good thing. But it’s also completely at odds with the concept of festival fashion. Few modes of dressing revolve around disposability quite like it. Think about it. A typical festival lasts one weekend, during which time you will inevitably be camping in a wide range of weather scenarios, sweating and dancing for hours on end without access to showers. You’ll also be surrounded by scores of people who may or may not raid your tent for all of your belongings. In short, you don’t exactly want to bring items you care about. Hence why fast fashion and festivals made so much sense; flimsy, cheap, tacky garments comprised the optimum capsule wardrobe. At least they did, anyway – until everyone wised up to the environmental consequences. Nonetheless, if you’re going to a festival this summer, it’s a universally accepted truth that you will probably have to wear some clothes. Where, then, does that leave you? And what of festival fashion trends? Is there space to tap into the latest cool, new thing when you’re trying to shop sustainably and save money? Can we still have a hot girl (festival) summer? “The cost of living crisis is having a huge impact on young peoples’ purchasing patterns, particularly when it comes to ad hoc events, so second-hand buys are proving a big hit for festival season,” says Emily Gordon-Smith, content director and sustainability lead at the trend and insights forecaster Stylus. “This means tapping into more personalised looks, not straight off the high street, and often with a nod to iconic festival-ready styling that definitely includes Kate Moss in her Glasto heyday.” As any seasoned festival-goer will know, few outfits have stood the test of time quite like Moss’s from the early Noughties. One quick Google search will bring up hundreds of infamous shots of the model stomping through the muddy fields in micro-shorts, leather trousers, waistcoats, belted mini dresses, and other understated, utilitarian looks that couldn’t be further from the festival fashion aesthetic du jour. Other style mavens for the era? Alexa Chung in a silver mini dress with a jumper tied loosely around her waist. Sienna Miller in yellow sunglasses and a studded belt. And so on. They weren’t so much dressing for festivals as they were just dressing for a day of drinking beer and watching live music. Yes, they looked amazing, but it wasn’t because they were soaking themselves in lame co-ords. It was because they weren’t trying very hard, and it’s this modus operandi that has established itself at the centre of festival fashion now. Kate’s festival looks are still being recreated on the runways, with key items like the waistcoats and flat knee boots appearing in many collections Emily Gordon-Smith It’s also at the root of the Y2K trends reigning supreme on catwalks across the globe for the last year. “The Nineties and Noughties continue to be eras of stylistic fascination for those not even old enough to remember them, so of course style icons like Kate Moss are a major reference point,” adds Gordon-Smith. “Her festival looks are still being recreated on the runways, with key items like the waistcoats and flat knee boots appearing in many collections including those from Celine and Stella McCartney.” As for how to incorporate all this into your own festival wardrobe, it’s obviously not as easy as popping into a high-end luxury store and snapping up a £700 waistcoat. But if you want to follow in Moss and Co’s footsteps, the way to do it is to actually do the exact opposite and try and find something unique. It might sound counterintuitive but, ultimately, that’s what made their outfits so memorable in the first place; you couldn’t easily replicate them. That’s not to say you can’t look for key items, like tinted sunglasses and mini dresses, but you can find standout ones by taking your search onto secondhand shopping platforms, where you’ll find limitless options and one-off pieces. On Depop, some of the most searched-for items reflect a wide range of trends for festival season, spanning from “silver” (21 per cent increase in searches) and “lace cami” (37 per cent) to “mirror” (65 per cent) and “parachute pants” (1,200 per cent). If you do find yourself wanting to follow the crowd, though, the leading trend of the season is “Western”. According to money-saving platform WeThrift, searches for the “cowboy aesthetic” have increased by 40 per cent on Pinterest in the last 90 days. Meanwhile, over on TikTok, the #cowboyaesthetic hashtag has surpassed more than 4.3 million views. The hashtag #cowboyboots has more than 920.9 million views. Similar data has been found by retailers, with Pretty Little Thing reporting a 57 per cent increase in searches for cowboy boots in the last month, while “Western” searches have surged by 49 per cent. So long as you wear it right, it’s a look that reflects the boho chic image of the early Noughties Glastonbury set. Our suggestion is to pair some brightly coloured boots (we love these ones) with a secondhand slip dress and a pair of yellow-tinted shades. Throw on an oversized cargo jacket and you’re all set. Alternatively, if the sun is shining you might find yourself wanting to opt for a pair of statement trainers (these ones are very Nineties), which would work well with some classic Adidas tracksuit bottoms, a lace cami and some tiny sunglasses, amounting to a very Bella Hadid look. If you must do the crop top and denim cut-offs combo, there are ways to reinvent it a little. Try a knitted option from sustainable Australian brand MNK, for example, and there are plenty of secondhand denim shorts available across the web. All of it is easy to do – and far more comfortable than the festival outfits of yore – if you know what you’re doing. Just remember, though, that if you’re channelling Moss, less is always more. Don’t be afraid to take risks. And stay very far away from the glitter. Read More Glastonbury 2023 – live: Immigration enforcement officers spotted near festival site at Castle Cary station Flip-flops, nudity and ‘up the vajayjay!’: How the red carpet became a platform for protest Subversive? Dangerous? Boring?: How the red carpet became a barometer for modern masculinity
2023-06-22 13:53
The AI 'Seinfeld' show loop broke but it's still alive
An AI-rendition of Seinfeld has been playing on an infinite loop on Twitch since December
2023-10-31 20:15
Coronation tiara crowns Geneva jewels auction
A dazzling tiara worn at two British coronations and the Star of Egypt diamond purportedly once belonging to King Farouk are among the historic jewellery items being...
2023-05-17 10:26
Heather Armstrong: 'Queen of mommy blogging' dead at 47
Armstrong found success in the 2000s documenting the ups and downs of motherhood on her "Dooce" blog.
2023-05-11 08:23
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