With extensive wildfires in Los Angeles, we look at the longer-term health impacts of wildfires and why there is still a risk to health after a fire is extinguished. A global commission has called for an overhaul of how obesity is diagnosed, suggesting more measures for practitioners to help distinguish between different types of obesity and improve individualized care for each patient. In Guatemala, reporter Jane Chambers takes us along to a local project supporting residents to transition away from ultra-processed food and towards more traditional eating habits. Also on the show, in light of 2024 surpassing global climate warming limits of 1.5°C we find out how climate change is impacting HIV prevention and care. Plus, how abortion patients in the UK demonstrate shifting contraception choices, with a rise in ‘natural’ fertility options. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Katie Tomsett & Jack Lee

James Gallagher, a BBC health and science correspondent, brings his insights on the rising cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). He aims to demystify HMPV, clarifying its historical context and seasonal nature amidst media sensationalism. The discussion also addresses the challenges elite female athletes face regarding fertility, focusing on intense training's impact on reproductive health. Furthermore, insights into Ukrainian veterans building drones for rehabilitation highlight resilience in the face of adversity. The conversation wraps up with predictions for global health by 2025.

Claudia Hammond is in Malawi exploring the concept of One Health, where the health of humans, animals and the environment are all linked. Today we’re visiting a makeshift roadside operating theatre for dogs in the village of Kauma, just outside of Lilongwe. During the ‘Spay Day’, vets from the Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals neuter local dogs for free, in an attempt to protect both dogs, and people, from rabies. We find out how this work feeds into the bigger picture of One Health in Malawi, and Claudia has a go at being a veterinary assistant… Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston

Claudia Hammond is in Malawi exploring a movement known as “One Health”: an approach that calls for collaboration between the fields of human, animal, and environmental health, for the benefit of all. And how can this help to prevent disease when people and animals live in close proximity? We hear how vets and researchers across Malawi are tackling diseases such as rabies, anthrax, and sleeping sickness – and how the sharing of expertise that One Health brings is crucial in their efforts. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston

Andrew Green, a global health journalist, joins Claudia Hammond to review health trends and predictions for 2024. They unveil unexpected stories that shaped the year and discuss game-changing innovations like malaria vaccines and CAR-XT for schizophrenia. The pair also tackle the rise of MPOX and the implications of climate change on health. Additionally, they humorously explore the Ig Nobel Prizes and the challenges of human reproduction on Mars, blending profound insights with lighthearted trivia.

Researchers have trailed a revolutionary malaria vaccine that uses the entire malaria parasite and is delivered via the bite of a mosquito, offering a novel way to boost immunity. The next step involves developing an injectable version for broader use. Also on the program: a mystery illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Kwango Province; doctors in Brazil raise concerns over dengue spreading through contaminated blood transfusions; and an innovative temporary tattoo that can measure brain activity through hair.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Katie Tomsett and Jack Lee

Ayan Panja, a family doctor specializing in treatments for dementia and type 2 diabetes, teams up with Raj Swaroop Lavadi, a neurosurgery research fellow focused on concussion risks. They delve into a new study linking genetic factors to early onset type 2 diabetes in South Asians. The conversation also touches on revolutionary asthma treatments and the alarming rise of slap fighting, spotlighting the serious concussion risks associated with this controversial sport. Their insights blend health, genetics, and safety in a captivating dialogue.

As the war in Sudan leads to multiple health crises in the country, we look at what can be done to improve the situation. Also on the show, is climate change helping disease-carrying ticks to spread beyond their usual range by an unusual method – migrating birds? And hot chocolate: it’s delicious, but in certain circumstances, could it also help to improve your vascular health? Claudia Hammond is joined by health reporter Laura Foster to explore these topics and more.Image: WFP trucks carry aid to Darfur and other famine-stricken parts through the Adre Border crossing Image Credit: Abubakar Garelnabei/ReutersPresenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Katie Tomsett and Margaret Sessa-Hawkins

Some Ugandan children with complicated malaria have shown partial resistance to leading anti-malarial drug artemisinin. What challenge does this pose to treatment efficacy and raising concerns about the potential spread of drug-resistant strains. We speak with Dr. Audrey Blewer, an epidemiologist and assistant professor in the School of Medicine at Duke University, about how 911 dispatchers providing CPR instructions can significantly improve bystander intervention rates, highlighting the critical role of telecommunicators in emergency response. Additionally, does working from home increase the amount of sleep and exercise you can get? We discuss the impact of remote working on health and productivity. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Margaret Sessa-Hawkins and Katie Tomsett

As Trump is elected to a second term in office, what will his policies mean for U.S. and global health funding, vaccine distribution and international health strategies? Also on the program, have you ever wondered what health issues we should worry about if humans settle in space? Claudia speaks with the Wienersmiths, a husband-and-wife team who authored a book exploring the possibility of space colonies, sharing insights on the scientific and logistical challenges of sustaining life beyond Earth. And we hear the latest on Pakistan’s smog crisis, examining its persistent impact on communities and its place within the global issue of air pollution. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Margaret Sessa-Hawkins and Jack Lee(Image: President-Elect Donald Trump Meets With Biden, Congressional Leaders In Washington. Credit: Allison Robbert-Pool/Getty Images)