In a groundbreaking revelation, a major study challenges the predominant belief that genetics are the sole driving force behind young-onset dementia, where symptoms manifest before the age of 65. Conducted by scientists from the UK and the Netherlands, this extensive study delves into the health profiles of over 350,000 individuals under the age of 65 across the UK.

The research identified 15 significant risk factors, revealing the intricate link between vitamin D deficiency, depression, and diabetes. Lifestyle choices, including alcohol consumption and stroke history were highlighted, while social connections and sensory health also played roles. Surprisingly, higher formal education correlated with reduced dementia risk, emphasising the impact of cognitive stimulation.

Regarded as a robust study, this research represents a paradigm shift in understanding and addressing dementia risk. The insights gained from this study provide a foundation for further exploration, with the potential to shape individual and societal-level interventions.

This study, published in the Jama Neurology journal, signifies a pivotal step in unravelling the complexities of young-onset dementia and charting a course for proactive and targeted interventions. The journey towards mitigating dementia risk takes a significant leap forward, offering hope for improved brain health and quality of life.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has designated a new sub-variant of the Omicron strain of Coronavirus, known as JN.1, as a "variant of interest" due to its rapid spread globally. Despite the variant's rapid spread, the WHO has assured that the public risk remains low and existing COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide protection.

However, the WHO has cautioned that there could be an increase in COVID-19 cases this winter, alongside other respiratory viruses like the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In the UK, JN.1 accounts for about 7% of positive COVID tests which have been analysed in laboratories.

The WHO's risk assessment indicates that JN.1 might contribute to increased coronavirus cases during the winter surge, particularly in countries entering colder seasons. While there is limited data on JN.1's ability to evade vaccine-induced immunity, there are no indications that it causes more severe illness than previous variants. However, further studies are necessary to assess its health impact fully, as the data on hospital admissions with COVID has significantly declined.

To mitigate the spread of infections and severe disease, the WHO has advised to wear masks in crowded, enclosed spaces, covering coughs and sneezes, regular handwashing, staying up to date with COVID and flu vaccinations (especially for vulnerable groups), staying home if unwell and getting tested for COVID if symptoms appear.

England's ambulance services are sounding the alarm over critical delays in emergency care, putting patients at risk. Hospitals are overcrowded, A&E wait times extending and in particular for those arriving by ambulance. NHS data reveals over 80% of patients are now waiting more than 30 minutes for an A&E handover, far exceeding the standard 15-minute target.

These prolonged delays are compromising patient safety and preventing ambulances from responding to other emergencies. NHS England acknowledges the system's strain but notes there have been substantial improvements in staffing and bed availability compared to last year. Still, in November, 30% of A&E patients faced over four-hour waits, and response times for urgent calls exceeded targets.

The issue is nationwide, as confirmed by the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE). Paramedics report extended waits outside hospitals, delaying critical care for patients. The severity of the situation is highlighted by recent coroner warnings about deaths linked to ambulance delays.

NHS England's medical director, Prof Sir Stephen Powis, recognises the challenges, including rising flu and norovirus cases and the impact of industrial actions. As the NHS gears up for a demanding winter, efficient patient management remains vital to alleviate pressure on emergency services and ensure timely patient care.

Researchers at Stanford University have made an intriguing advancement in medical diagnostics with a new blood test that functions like an "MOT" for the human body. This test measures the ageing rate of 11 vital organs, including the heart, brain, and lungs.

The initial study, which focused on adults who were mostly middle-aged or older, indicates that around one in five healthy individuals over 50 may have at least one organ ageing prematurely. For some, multiple organs could be ageing faster than their age suggests, raising the risk for organ-specific diseases or early mortality.

The technique, which is still being reviewed by scientists and awaiting approval, involves studying protein patterns in blood samples using advanced computer analysis, estimating the condition of health to various organs.

While the concept of predicting organ health might raise concerns, the potential for pre-emptive health measures is significant. If these early results hold true in larger, more diverse populations, this test could herald a new proactive era in healthcare, allowing for early interventions to address or even prevent age-related diseases.

The Winter Vomiting Virus is making its presence known again in England, warn experts. NHS England reports a significant rise in hospitalisations for diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms, hitting approximately 350 people daily last week, compared to 126 during the same period last year.

Norovirus, highly contagious, spreads through contact with infected individuals and contaminated surfaces. The symptoms include sudden projectile vomiting, diarrhoea, high temperature, stomach pains, and aching limbs. While many individuals recover without the need for hospital care, some may face severe illness.

Preventative measures involve frequent handwashing with soap and water, as alcohol hand gels have been proven as ineffective against norovirus. Cleaning contaminated surfaces with a bleach solution is recommended.

In addition to norovirus, NHS England notes a rise in cases of other seasonal viruses. Daily averages indicate over 150 beds filled with flu patients, seven in critical care, 131 children hospitalised with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and around 46,000 NHS England staff absent due to illness, with some 1,715 attributed to Covid.

NHS national medical director Prof Sir Stephen Powis emphasizes the strain on hospitals and staff, urging the public to use emergency services appropriately and get vaccinated against Covid and flu if eligible.

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has revealed its selection to spearhead a groundbreaking trial centred around the development of a personalised cancer vaccine.

The esteemed Torbay Hospital's research and development department will play a pivotal role in this transformative initiative, extending its support to cancer patients who face the risk of disease recurrence. The vaccine, a collaborative effort between BioNTech and GeneNTech, draws inspiration from the successful MRNA technology employed in previous Covid-19 Vaccines.

In this cutting-edge trial, eligible participants will undergo a comprehensive analysis of their cancer mutation, paving the way for the creation of a tailored vaccine that precisely targets an individual’s specific tumour. The primary objective remains to empower the immune system, enabling it to recognise and potentially thwart the resurgence of cancer.

Dr. Nangi Lo, the medical oncology lead for the trust, expressed optimism about the study's potential to bring tangible benefits to cancer patients across the South West. Dr. Nangi Lo underscored the significance of evaluating bespoke vaccines within clinical trials as a crucial step toward enhancing outcomes.