The MMR vaccine – protecting against measles, mumps, and rubella – is one of the true public health triumphs of the modern era. Here, we explore its history, the impact of these diseases, vital UK statistics, and why you should trust and act on vaccination. Before the vaccine Measles in the UK Pre-1968 (before…
Vaccinating your child on time is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard their health and the health of those around them. The NHS offers a free schedule of essential vaccinations, protecting children at key ages from serious diseases. Here’s a clear guide on child vaccinations, including what they are, when…
Summer in the UK is often a welcome change – longer days, warmer weather, and a chance to enjoy the outdoors. However, the warmer months can also bring a range of common summer illnesses. While summer is often associated with better health due to increased sunlight and outdoor activity, certain health conditions tend to spike…
Summer in the UK often feels like a brief and welcome reprieve from grey skies and rain – but when temperatures soar unexpectedly, it can catch us off guard. While we’re quick to head to the park or the beach when the sun’s out, it’s vital to understand the risks that come with extreme heat…
Every year on 14th June, World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) serves as a global reminder of the critical role voluntary blood donors play in saving lives. In 2025, this message resonates more profoundly than ever in the UK, as the nation grapples with dangerously low blood reserves. The urgency to act is paramount, and understanding…
Water is the foundation of life, accounting for approximately 60% of the adult human body. It’s involved in every cellular function, from temperature regulation to nutrient transport, and even brain function. Yet despite its importance, dehydration – a state where the body loses more water than it takes in – is surprisingly common and often…
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published its 2025 report on health inequalities in England, revealing a stark picture of how social and economic disadvantages continue to drive disproportionate health outcomes across the country. This landmark document explores how people’s backgrounds, ethnicities, and where they live significantly influence their exposure to health risks –…
Sunscreen is a cream, lotion or spray that protects skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight. UVB rays burn the skin and cause sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper, causing premature aging (wrinkles, pigmentation) – and both contribute to skin cancer. Sunscreens contain UV filters: physical (mineral) blockers such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide…
Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, taking place from 12th to 18th May 2025, is a pivotal event in the UK’s calendar, dedicated to promoting mental wellbeing and reducing stigma around mental health issues. Organised annually by the Mental Health Foundation, MHAW provides an opportunity to reflect on mental health, spark conversations, and support those experiencing…
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become a staple in many diets, offering quick and easy meal solutions. Understandably, in today’s fast-paced and increasingly expensive world, convenience and cost often dictates our food choices. However, recent studies have raised concerns about the health implications of consuming these foods in large quantities. What are Ultra-Processed Foods? Ultra-processed foods…