International health news

Scandinavian researchers suggest that diabetes is actually five separate diseases. Typically, diabetes is split into type 1 and type 2. This means that treatment could be tailored to each different type.

A new study demonstrates waist-to-hip ratio to be a more accurate predictor of heart attacks than general obesity, particularly for women. High BMI remains to be a link to heart disease for both sexes.

Country updates

Nigeria is suffering from an outbreak of Lassa fever. Over recent weeks, there has been an increasing number of cases and deaths making this Nigeria’s biggest outbreak of Lassa fever ever.

Public Health England is telling the nation that it is time ‘to get on a diet’. This is part of an initiative to reduce calorie consumption by 20% by 2024.

Health advice

New research suggests that pregnant women should take a daily fish oil capsule throughout their pregnancy to reduce their baby’s risk of food allergy. Pregnant women should pay attention to their diet as it could influence their baby’s allergies.

A new US study shows that holding hands with your romantic partner, who is in pain, can ease their pain. Reaching for your partner’s hand when they are in pain will synchronise your breathing, heart rate and brain waves.