Health Check

Explore the fascinating world of phages, viruses that target bacteria and their potential to combat superbugs through citizen science. Discover how ultrasound technology is being harnessed to treat apathy in Parkinson’s patients, tackling both motor and non-motor symptoms. Uncover innovations in quantum physics that are enhancing cancer diagnoses and surgical accuracy with smart gloves. Join the fun as scientists compete in games at the Royal Society summer exhibition, blending serious research with light-hearted camaraderie.

There has been immense progress on childhood vaccination since 1974, with over four billion children vaccinated worldwide. So why now are we seeing vaccination rates stall, and decline? We look at what is driving this stagnation that is putting millions of children at risk. The psychological impacts of war can persist for long after the events themselves. Reporter Stephanie Tam talks to the therapists aiming to break cycles of intergenerational trauma in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Being diagnosed with ME, or chronic fatigue syndrome, can be a long process that requires ruling out other conditions first, we discover how researchers are working towards identifying blood biomarkers of chronic fatigue syndrome. Also, on the show we hear from Dr Adele Goman who has unexpectedly found hearing interventions reduce the risk of falling. Finally, Dr Phil Silva the founder of the Dunedin Study has died. We take a look at some of the key achievements of this landmark study that has been running for half a century. It follows the same group of almost 1000 people, all born within 12 months of each other in the early 1970s. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producers: Katie Tomsett & Hannah Robins Studio Manager: Sue Maillot(Image: Doctor injecting a vaccine. Credit: Karl Tapales via Getty Images)

Experts dive into the complexities of future thinking and its impact on our identities. Discover how visualization techniques boost motivation, especially among athletes. Children share their imaginative aspirations, blending innocence with hope. The discussion emphasizes optimism and effective goal-setting, critiquing passive strategies in favor of actionable steps. Additionally, techniques for enhancing participation in health screenings are explored, revealing innovative methods to tackle barriers and maintain personal growth.

In this engaging discussion, BBC reporter Laura Foster highlights the mpox outbreak in Sierra Leone and its impact on local health. She also dives into groundbreaking HIV research using mRNA technology, which could transform future treatments. The conversation shifts to healthy aging, emphasizing the importance of muscle power for longevity and the pivotal role of physical activity. Additionally, Laura shares insights on how coffee might boost cognitive health in aging populations, suggesting a balanced lifestyle is key for long-term wellness.

Joining the discussion is Philippa Roxby, a BBC health reporter specializing in health innovations. She highlights groundbreaking findings from cancer trials showing that exercise significantly aids colon cancer recovery. Roxby also discusses revolutionary immunotherapy research for head and neck cancers, which is improving survival rates. Additionally, the conversation touches on the dangers of aflatoxins in crops and the potential for innovative tests to track ultra-processed food intake, while exploring the exciting prospects of e-tattoo technology for monitoring mental workload.

Women with dense breasts are four times more likely to develop breast cancer than women with low breast density and it’s also harder for cancer to be detected with existing screening methods. But now, the findings in a new study could dramatically improve the chances of having the disease spotted early on. We speak to the study’s lead author is Professor Fiona Gilbert to find out more.The 2025 World Health Assembly has just concluded, Devex Correspondent Andrew Green was there and tells us what the main takeaways were.Dr Cecilia Kanyama and Professor Thomas Harrison share their decades-long effort to improve treatment options for cryptococcal meningitis. The refined treatment regimen, discovered alongside Joe Jarvis and their team, gives hope to the hundreds of thousands of HIV-positive patients who are diagnosed with this fungal infection each year.Finally, researchers have developed contact lenses that enable to wearer to see near-infrared light. How do they work and what could they be useful for?Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producers: Hannah Robins & Louise Orchard Studio Managers: Mike Mallen & Andrew Garratt

James Gallagher, a BBC health and science correspondent, discusses a revolutionary anti-malarial compound designed to combat the parasites causing most malaria cases. He dives into the challenges of insecticide resistance and innovative solutions combining drug treatments with bed nets. The conversation shifts to President Trump's new executive order on drug pricing, exploring its potential global impact. Additionally, Gallagher highlights the alarming rise of scorpion stings in Brazil linked to urbanization and climate change, presenting a growing public health concern.

In this fascinating discussion, science journalist Caroline Williams dives into interoception, revealing how our brains interpret internal signals and its impact on well-being. Carrim Mpaweni updates us on a promising tuberculosis vaccine trial in Malawi, aiming to revolutionize TB prevention. Psychotherapist Sophie Scott shares effective strategies for encouraging loved ones to seek help for mental health issues, emphasizing empathy and communication. Tune in for a rich blend of science, health, and emotional insight!

In this discussion, family doctor Anne Robinson highlights groundbreaking findings on the shingles vaccine, showing a 23% reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. The conversation dives into the unexpected benefits of the vaccine, linking it to better heart health. Robinson also explores the challenges in eradicating schistosomiasis, a major public health issue. Additionally, she touches on significant advancements in prostate cancer treatments and a quirky study revealing that kissing poses minimal risk for those with celiac disease. It's an enlightening mix of health insights!

Dorcas Wangira, BBC's Africa health correspondent, discusses the alarming destruction of Sudan's Mycetoma Research Centre amid conflict, impacting care for a neglected disease. The podcast also highlights innovative telehealth solutions for remote communities in the Americas. Furthermore, researchers reveal promising results for a non-hormonal male contraceptive implant and the potential for adults to overcome severe peanut allergies through microdosing. Finally, insights into the health effects of traditional versus processed diets in urban Africa add depth to the conversation.