Health Check

This week on Health Check, we get an update on a new and concerning strain of MPox that is spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Also on the program, it has been two years since the United States overturned the constitutional right to an abortion with the Dobbs decision. What effect has this had on the global picture of abortion? And could arts-based strategies help doctors to cope with burnout and patient communication. Doctor Graham Easton joins Claudia Hammond to discuss these stories and more. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Margaret Sessa-Hawkins(Photo: Test tubes labelled "Monkeypox virus positive" are seen in this illustration. Credit: Dado Ruvic/Reuters)

In this episode, Jess Robson, founder of 'Run Talk Run', discusses the mental health benefits of exercise. The podcast explores the impact of exercise on depression, the science behind a runner's high, and the importance of promoting a non-competitive atmosphere for sustained exercise habits. Additionally, it delves into the endocannabinoid system's role and the barriers individuals face in incorporating exercise for mental well-being.

Professor Matt Fox discusses the positive impact of internet use on life satisfaction and purpose, alongside Dr. Edgard Camarós' research on ancient Egyptian cancer surgeries. The podcast also covers the development of a combined flu and COVID vaccine, a dance program to prevent falls in older individuals, and a 'bug bounty' program for scientific papers.

Public health consultant Dr Ike Anya discusses the third human case of bird flu in the US and the spread from dairy cows, alongside a discussion on pregnancy allegations linked to weight loss drugs. Author David Robson highlights the impact of social connections on health, and a South Korean stress awareness competition involving resting heart rates is explored.

BBC Africa health correspondent Dorcas Wangira discusses the projected increase in global life expectancy by 2050 and the importance of public health measures. They also cover topics such as evolving mosquito behavior in Kenya, advancements in childhood cancer treatment, and the high metabolic energy expenditure during pregnancy.

This week, we’re looking at examples of innovative thinking in medicine. A new, non-invasive device could help people with paralysis to regain movement. And as Namibia passes a critical milestone, we look back on one of the biggest developments in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV.Also on the programme, an update on the Korean doctors’ strike, and a summit looks to tackle the often-overlooked problem of indoor air pollution.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Margaret Sessa-Hawkins Editor: Holly Squire

Smitha Mundasad discusses the surge in whooping cough cases, the risks of heat-related mortality for women, innovative vaccine patches, and the psychology of awe. Topics include managing whooping cough symptoms and advocating for vaccinations, the health effects of rising temperatures, pain-free vaccine delivery trials, and the mental well-being benefits of awe-inspiring experiences like viewing the Northern Lights.

A research center in Sudan had brought hope for neglected disease mycetoma, we hear from a mycetoma expert how the conflict has affected research. Also on the show, have researchers discovered a genetic form of Alzheimer’s, and for the first time an orangutan is seen making a medicine to treat its own wound – what can this tell us about the history of human medication? Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Margaret Sessa-Hawkins

Claudia Hammond discusses the rise in mental health issues among teenage girls, exploring factors like academic pressures and social media. Researchers and psychologists emphasize the need for systemic approaches and early interventions to support adolescent girls' mental health.

After a number of incidents around the world so far this year that have left dozens of flyers needing hospital treatment, we look at how a rise in air turbulence because of global warming is leading to more and more injuries to passengers.Professor Paul Williams from the University of Reading in the UK tells us why turbulence is so hard to plan for, how new technology might be able to help solve the problem, and how despite an increase in incidents it’s still incredibly rare to experience extreme turbulence./Claudia Hammond is also joined by Monica Lakhanpaul, Professor of Integrated Community Child Health at University College London, to look at how a shortage of HPV vaccines is leading to millions of girls across Africa missing out on receiving the shots.Monica also tells us about her new research on the barriers children with epilepsy are facing being able to exercise.We also explore what it’s like for people that don’t have an inner monologue and can’t imagine sounds – a phenomenon known as anauralia.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Dan Welsh