Department of Health and Social Care

Every baby born in England will be screened for spinal muscular atrophy starting in 2027, as announced by the Department of Health and Social Care. Campaigners have described this initiative as a landmark moment for early detection and treatment of the disease.

Theo Burrell, a ceramics and glass expert on 'Antiques Roadshow' and cancer research advocate, died of glioblastoma at 39. She was diagnosed in June 2022 and underwent multiple treatments, exceeding initial life expectancy predictions. Her family highlighted her advocacy and the hope she inspired in the cancer community.

The UK plans to restrict vape packaging and flavoring to reduce their appeal to children, including plain packaging and limiting device colors to white, black, or grey. The proposals aim to align e-cigarette regulations with tobacco laws, as 20% of teenagers have tried vaping.

The British Medical Association (BMA) voted to reject the use of the IHRA definition of antisemitism within the NHS, citing concerns it suppresses legitimate criticism of Israel's actions in Palestine. Doctors reported facing investigations for publicly condemning Israel's policies, prompting the BMA to advocate for protections against disciplinary actions tied to political speech.

The British Medical Association (BMA) voted to drop the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, citing free speech concerns. The decision follows reports of NHS workers being reprimanded for expressing support for Palestine, with the BMA urging protections for staff discussing international conflicts.

Samantha Jones, permanent secretary at the Department of Health and Social Care, held shares in a key children’s home operator and had multiple private-sector interests.

Wes Streeting, the former health secretary, vowed to fix the 'broken' NHS but critics say he failed to deliver during his 22 months in office. He declared the NHS 'on the road to recovery' six months ago, a claim he repeated in his resignation letter. Critics argue that he did not make significant progress.

The UK government is reforming the NHS payment scheme to incentivize same-day abortions, aiming to remove barriers to timely care. Critics, including Right To Life UK, argue this could pressure women into rushed decisions, while the government claims it ensures women control their care. Key abortion providers like BPAS and MSI Reproductive Choices are highlighted as beneficiaries of the new policy.