University of Oxford

Taking steroids more than doubles the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a study presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes. Researchers found that patients on steroid treatment were 2.6 times more likely to develop diabetes compared to those not on steroids. The study analyzed data from over 450,000 people treated by Oxford University Hospitals between 2013 and 2023.

Researchers from Oxford and Cambridge developed 'origami-inspired' electrodes for minimally invasive brain surgery, reducing incision size and recovery risks. The electrodes, published in Nature Communications, start as a flat silicone wafer, fold into a compact form, and unfold inside the brain to cover a larger area. Successful tests on pigs suggest potential for diagnosing epilepsy, developing brain-computer interfaces, and treating other neurological conditions.

News media often repeat drug makers' medical claims as news, giving pharma companies free advertising and potentially misleading consumers. Examples include a shingles vaccine's alleged dementia risk reduction, GLP-1 agonists' mental health benefits, and Xolair's new urticaria treatment, all linked to conflicts of interest. Medical journals complicate conflict of interest identification, and news media rarely investigate the sources of these claims.

New review identifies varenicline, cytisine, and nicotine e-cigarettes as top methods to quit smoking, best when combined with counseling or behavioral support. Bupropion and nicotine replacement therapy are also effective, especially with fast-acting forms like gum. Published in 'Addiction,' the study highlights the importance of evidence-based cessation methods.

The PROTEUS trial in 20 UK hospitals found no significant differences in using AI for stress echocardiogram diagnosis, but AI improved decision-making for less experienced clinicians and in complex clinical sub-groups, potentially leveling accuracy across all clinicians.