International health news

An international trial of over 100 patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) shows exciting promise. Stem cell transplant stopped the disease and improved symptoms for the patients tested. This is great news for the 2.5 million people around the globe suffering from MS.

Researchers believe they have uncovered the explanation as to why there is a natural loss of leg muscle as people age. With age, leg muscles reduce in size and strength and this is because of a loss of nerves.

Scientists are in the process of creating an oral flu vaccine in pill form. A flu vaccine pill would be easier to use in developing countries as it would not need to be stored in a fridge or freezer.

Country updates

Smoking habits in India are revealed to start from a very young age. Latest figures show that over 625,000 Indian children aged between 10-14 smoke cigarettes every day.

Health advice

The Mediterranean diet has been shown to help older womens’ bones and muscles. Postmenopausal women should up their intake of fruits and vegetables, grains, potatoes, olive oil, seeds and fish to increase muscle mass and bone mass.

New research suggests men with low sperm counts are more likely to have other health issues which increase their risk of illness. 20% of men with low sperm counts tested were more likely to have more body fat, higher blood pressure and more ‘bad’ cholesterol.