Rebecca Thomas

2 days ago | independent.co.uk | Rebecca Thomas

Clinical trials in 2025 are assessing 138 treatments for dementia and Alzheimer’s, an 11 per cent increase from the previous year, offering "hope" for prevention and treatment. One trial is examining whether semaglutide, the active ingredient in weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, can slow dementia progression. Experts suggest 2025 could be a "landmark year" due to four drugs in large clinical trials that aim to prevent dementia, not just treat it.

2 days ago | independent.co.uk | Rebecca Thomas

One clinical trial is assessing whether semaglutide, used in weight loss drugs, could slow the progression of dementia Rebecca ThomasHealth Correspondent Dozens of breakthrough drug trials, including one using the main ingredient in weight-loss jabs, offer patients “hope” for the treatment and prevention of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Some 138 treatments are being assessed in clinical trials in 2025 - an 11 per cent rise on the year before - according to new research published on Tuesday.

5 days ago | independent.co.uk | Rebecca Thomas

NHS areas in England and Wales are denying obese patients hip and knee replacements based on BMI, despite NICE guidance against it, to cut costs. Patients are required to lose weight before surgery, but NHS weight loss programs have long waiting lists or are shut down. The Royal College of Surgeons of England has criticised the policy, warning that denying care could worsen patients' health and mobility.

5 days ago | independent.co.uk | Rebecca Thomas

Former health minister James Bethell calls on the government to do more to tackle the obesity crisis and end ‘misery for millions’Rebecca ThomasHealth Correspondent From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing.

5 days ago | independent.co.uk | Rebecca Thomas

Exclusive: Infected Blood Scandal victims with HIV feel they are having to ‘prove their worth’Rebecca ThomasHealth Correspondent A man who nearly died twice after contracting HIV from infected blood he received as a baby is having to “prove his worth” to get compensation despite living with the disease for 40 years.