
York and Scarborough NHS Trust among worst to work for
A trust which runs hospitals in North Yorkshire has been ranked by its staff as one of the worst in England to work in.The York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust came in the bottom five when staff were asked if they would recommend working there in a national survey conducted last autumn.The NHS Staff Survey looked at the experiences of 700,000 employees throughout England's 215 trusts in 2024.The trust said the results "do not reflect where we want to be" and mirrored the "hugely challenging environment we are working in".
It was ranked the lowest in the North East and Yorkshire region, with only 45% of staff "agreeing" or "strongly agreeing" they would recommend it as a place to work, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.Speaking at a meeting of North Yorkshire Council's Scarborough and Whitby Committee, Councillor Rich Maw said: "I'd like to spare a thought for our dedicated local NHS staff doing their best to care for us all, despite the difficulties they endure."The Health Service Journal has analysed the full results of the 2024 NHS Staff Survey and the York and Scarborough NHS Trust was one of the worst performers nationally."Scarborough and Whitby MP Alison Hume said: "The staff do such a wonderful job and work so hard for all of us, that it is disappointing that the working conditions they're reporting aren't good enough."The trust runs hospitals across North Yorkshire in York, Scarborough, Selby and Malton and also Bridlington Hospital in East Yorkshire.
The chief executive of the York and Scarborough NHS Trust, Simon Morritt, said the message from colleagues was "loud and clear that we have a long way to go"."The overall response rate of 36% means we are not hearing from almost two-thirds of our staff," he added."We have also seen a decline in our overall engagement score, and the extent to which colleagues would recommend our trust as a place to work and to receive treatment."The responses also suggest that people are not confident they can influence improvement or drive change."Mr Morritt, who described the results as disappointing, said solutions would not arrive in the form of significant new investment in services or workforce and that a "fundamental shift in our thinking" was needed towards "how we use what we already have".
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Medical News Today
9 hours ago
- Medical News Today
Smoking and GERD: Effects, link, and more
Smoking can increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and may increase the frequency and severity of symptoms. Quitting smoking may help to reduce GERD symptoms. Smoking tobacco or e-cigarettes will likely increase acid reflux, stomach acid production, and coughing, which can all contribute to the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To reduce GERD symptoms, a healthcare professional may recommend quitting smoking. Smoking may increase the frequency of GERD symptoms. A 2025 study associated smoking e-cigarettes with a greater number of acidic refluxes than in non-smoking participants. Smoking may also worsen GERD symptoms. A 2024 study of 403 university students found that those who smoked tobacco or vaped had higher GERD symptom scores than non-smokers. Increased frequency of vaping linked to an increase in GERD symptoms. The study found that newer smokers experienced more severe symptoms than those who had been smoking for longer. This may be due to increased sensitivity to nicotine in new or light smokers, although further research is necessary to confirm findings. » Learn more:Vaping vs. smoking Smoking, including inhaling secondhand smoke, can weaken the LES. The LES is a muscle that sits between the esophagus and the stomach. The esophagus is a tube running from the throat to the stomach that transports food and liquids. The LES opens to allow food and liquids to pass from the esophagus to the stomach. It stays closed to prevent stomach contents traveling back up the esophagus. Weakening of the LES can lead to GERD. Smoking increases the amount of acid the stomach produces, which, in addition to the weakening of the LES, increases the risk of damage to the esophagus. According to a 2025 study, vaping may increase the risk of developing GERD. The study included 90 participants, and found vaping linked to increased acid reflux and may play a part in the development of GERD. This may be due to the effects of e-cigarettes on the LES. Other tobacco products may also increase the risk of GERD due to their nicotine content. Nicotine relaxes the LES, which increases reflux due to stomach acid flowing back up the esophagus. Quitting smoking may help to improve and reduce GERD symptoms. A 2024 study found that students who quit smoking and vaping had lower GERD symptom scores than current smokers. Quitting smoking may allow the LES to recover and regain its usual function, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of acid reflux. An older 2016 study tested the effects of smoking cessation on GERD. After one year, 141 participants achieved smoking cessation and 50 did not. The group of participants who quit smoking had 43.9% improvement in GERD symptoms and significantly less frequent symptoms, according to a self-report questionnaire. The group who did not quit only experienced 18.2% improvement. If people want to quit smoking or vaping, they can speak with a healthcare professional who can help them follow a quit plan. People can also find advice and support online through resources such as » Learn moreFive ways to quit smoking The following lifestyle changes can help improve and reduce GERD symptoms: maintain or achieve a moderate weight avoid foods and drinks that trigger or worsen GERD symptoms, which may include: spicy, acidic, or high fat foods caffeine alcohol use extra pillows or a soft wedge to raise the head and upper body by 6 to 8 inches when sleeping avoid eating at least 3 hours before lying down Managing other health issues, including asthma and diabetes, may also help reduce GERD symptoms. Exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful for people with GERD, as it can have similar effects to smoking. Inhaling secondhand smoke can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, which may worsen acid reflux. Nicotine, a key component in tobacco products, relaxes the LES and can lead to acid reflux. Research suggests exposure to nicotine from any source may harm the digestive system and increase the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. Some smoking cessation products, such as nicotine replacement therapy, may interact with some GERD medications. Nicotine may interact with cimetidine (Tagamet). Cimetidine is an antacid that reduces stomach acid, which may help manage GERD symptoms. It may increase nicotine levels in the blood, which may lead to toxicity. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking any GERD medications alongside smoking cessation products. Smoking is a risk factor for GERD, largely due to its effects on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Smoking weakens the LES, which allows stomach acid to flow back up the esophagus. Vaping, smoking other substances such as cannabis, consuming other tobacco products, and exposure to secondhand smoke may also increase the risk of GERD. Smoking may also increase the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. Quitting smoking can help the LES to recover, which may reduce and improve GERD symptoms. Acid Reflux / GERD Smoking / Quit Smoking Preventive Medicine Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.


The Sun
12-06-2025
- The Sun
I'm a psychologist and there are 5 things your kids must NEVER do if they have ADHD – or they risk making symptoms worse
MOST of us will know someone with ADHD - maybe a person in your friendship group, a work colleague, even your own son or daughter. While it's commonly understood that people with ADHD have difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, it's less well known what can exacerbate symptoms, especially among children. 3 Children are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD - which stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder - than adults. The condition can be identified at any age, but symptoms typically begin in childhood. While the condition affects both children and adults, the experience and challenges can differ significantly. Children often struggle more with hyperactivity and impulsivity, so knowing how not to exacerbate your child's symptoms is very important. There's been a notable increase in diagnoses over the past two decades, particularly among adults, and we know so much more about it - although figures suggest many cases remain undiagnosed. As of 2024, 2.6 million people in the UK were estimated to have ADHD, approximately 708,000 children and 1.9 million adults. Prescriptions for ADHD increased significantly from around 25 items per 1,000 people in 2019-20 to 41.55 items in 2023-24. But this increase isn't necessarily due to a true surge in cases. It reflects a number of factors, such as increased awareness and recognition of the condition, updates in diagnostic guidelines, and sociocultural pressures such as overstimulating digital environments. While the rise partly reflects these factors, it also raises important questions about overdiagnosis, the medicalisation of typical behaviour, and the need for individualised care. Do you or your child have ADHD- Here's the NHS test as Brits waiting two years for diagnosis To better understand the condition, chartered counselling psychologist Dr Sheena Kumar shared everything you need to know - from telltale signs to what to avoid. Signs you might have ADHD ADHD isn't just about being hyper or distracted or struggling under a heavy workload, says Dr Kumar. Instead, it's a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how you focus, organise, and manage impulses. Dr Kumar explains: "While everyone struggles with attention sometimes, ADHD symptoms are persistent; they do not come and go. "They show up in different parts of life like work, school, and relationships, and make things feel harder than they should be." According to Dr Kumar, the following symptoms always start in childhood, even if they weren't recognised: Losing focus, even in conversations or reading Misplacing things, forgetting tasks, or missing deadlines Struggling to start or finish tasks that need mental effort Feeling restless, talking a lot, or interrupting without meaning, which impacts your relationships Having trouble managing time, emotions, or priorities For adults, it might look less like physical hyperactivity and more like feeling mentally scattered or overwhelmed all the time, says Dr Kumar. What NOT to do if you have ADHD For people with ADHD, their brain works differently to neurotypical people, especially in areas like attention, impulse control, and executive functioning. Because of this, some habits and choices can make symptoms worse or lead to burnout - especially for kids. Dr Kumar says: "You want to find ways to support your brain rather than to add extra demand to it." ADHD in children and young people Symptoms of ADHD usually start before the age of 12. A child or young person may show signs of being inattentive, such as: being easily distracted finding it hard to listen to what people are saying or to follow instructions forgetting everyday tasks, like brushing their teeth or putting on socks They may show signs of being hyperactive and impulsive, including: having high energy levels fidgeting or tapping their hands and feet talking noisily feeling restless, or getting up and moving around when they're supposed to sit still finding it hard to wait their turn, or interrupting conversations Most children and young people with ADHD have symptoms of both the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive type. Some only show signs of one type. ADHD is thought to be recognised less often in girls than boys. This may be because girls with ADHD more commonly have inattentive symptoms and these can be harder to recognise. If you're worried that ADHD may be affecting your child, talk to one of their teachers. The teacher will usually make a referral to the school's special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO), who can discuss support in the classroom or with homework, or help with building confidence and friendships. If you're still worried or you think your child needs additional support, you may want to make an appointment with a GP. Source: NHS Here are five things she recommends to avoid: 1. Prioritise sleep People with ADHD tend to have a higher rate of sleep disorders. Studies indicate that 50 to 80 per cent of people with ADHD experience sleep difficulties, including a higher likelihood of insomnia, sleep apnoea, periodic limb movement disorder, and restless leg syndrome. For children, ADHD can lead to trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, and getting up in the morning. And sleep deprivation amplifies ADHD symptoms. It hinders the brain's ability to concentrate, making it more challenging for individuals with ADHD to stay focused and attentive. Dr Kumar advises: "Prioritise sleep, and if you struggle, research and try different ways to help sleep." 2. Don't overcommit The impulsivity and difficulty with time management associated with ADHD can contribute to taking on more tasks than one can realistically manage. Kids in particular may also struggle to say 'no'. This could be related to schoolwork, exams, or social situations such as hanging out with their friends. But overcommitment can be particularly problematic for individuals with ADHD, often leading to stress, burnout, and difficulty following through on commitments. Dr Kumar says: "Learning to say 'no' doesn't make you rude, it makes you honest." 3. 'Just try harder' The belief that someone with ADHD must exert extra effort to perform tasks can negatively impact self-esteem, warns Dr Kumar. This can be due to a combination of factors, including the feeling of being constantly behind, the internalisation of external criticism, and the challenges associated with emotional regulation. Telling a child with ADHD to 'just try harder' is ineffective and can be harmful because ADHD is a neurological condition, not a lack of effort or motivation. Instead of focusing on the perceived need to exert more effort, people with ADHD should adopt strategies to improve focus, organisation, and overall functioning. These strategies should be tailored to individual needs and preferences, and may include using tools to manage time and tasks, incorporating physical activity, and seeking professional guidance. 4. Ignore your emotions People with ADHD shouldn't ignore their emotions because neglecting them can lead to a number of difficulties. Children with ADHD may especially have difficulty regulating and managing their emotions. This can potentially result in intense outbursts and difficulty managing everyday situations. "Working on regulation skills helps," says Dr Kumar. 5. Never self-diagnose or self-medicate While parents are key to recognising potential ADHD symptoms and initiating the process of seeking a diagnosis from a doctor, they should never diagnose their child with the condition themselves. Self-diagnosing and self-medicating ADHD is strongly discouraged because it can lead to inaccurate diagnoses, ineffective treatment, and potential harm. A formal diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional, and treatment plans should be tailored to individual needs under the supervision of a medical professional. You risk the danger of making symptoms worse, says Dr Kumar. The best way to get diagnosed To go down the NHS route, visit your GP and ask for a referral to an ADHD specialist (only certain professionals are qualified to diagnose, such as psychiatrists and psychologists). Dr Kumar advises: "You'll usually be asked to bring examples of how your symptoms affect your daily life. "But note - while the NHS pathway is free, unfortunately waiting times can be up to three years. "If a private assessment is an option for you, diagnosis tends to be a lot quicker. "In my clinic I also do online ADHD assessment and diagnosis with adults." What happens if ADHD is never diagnosed? ADHD that is never diagnosed can hide under layers of frustration, burnout, or health issues. A diagnosis can be the first step toward understanding yourself, finding effective strategies, and feeling less alone. Dr Kumar adds: "Many people experience underachievement, feeling capable but consistently falling short due to disorganisation, missed deadlines, or procrastination. "This often leads to low self-esteem, with individuals internalising harmful beliefs like 'I'm lazy' which can increase the risk of anxiety and depression. "Without understanding the root cause, people may turn to coping mechanisms like excessive caffeine, or other substances to self-regulate. "Relationships may also suffer due to impulsivity, forgetfulness, or emotional reactivity, all of which can create unnecessary conflict. "Getting a diagnosis can bring clarity, relief, and a starting point for meaningful support." How ADHD is treated For some people, just knowing their diagnosis brings relief as it helps them to make sense of themselves and they do not want formalised treatment. For those that want treatment, that can look like a combination of medication, psychological support, and lifestyle adjustments, says Dr Kumar. She explains: "Psychological therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), support managing time, emotions, and daily challenges, often alongside coaching and family education. "Lifestyle changes like establishing routines, using organisational tools, exercising, and prioritising good sleep also play an important role. " Schools may provide additional support through formal plans, and regular follow-ups with healthcare professionals ensure the treatment is effective and adjusted as needed. "Overall, treatment is personalised to help improve daily functioning and quality of life."


The Sun
05-06-2025
- The Sun
Why Imane Khelif is likely to KEEP Olympic gold medal despite leaked document ‘proving boxer is biological male'
IMANE KHEIF is likely to KEEP the Olympic gold medal - despite being hit with fresh accusations of being a biological male. Khelif won gold for Algeria at the Paris Games in 2024 - a year after being banned from International Boxing Association competition. 1 In 2023, the IBA banned Khelif after tests taken in New Delhi allegedly produced the DNA of a 'male'. The IOC - who replaced the IBA as the Olympic's boxing governing body - were warned about the tests and urged to remove Khelif from the competition. But Khelif was allowed to box in Paris because of her female passport status. Since then, the alleged sex-test results from the 2023 World Championships have been published for the first time by 3 Wire Sports. The medical report appears to indicate that the boxer is biologically male. American journalist Alan Abrahamson produced the result of a test said to have been carried out on the boxer in New Delhi in March 2023 - which triggered the boxer's disqualification. The document published summarises the findings on Khelif as 'abnormal', stating: 'Chromosome analysis reveals male karyotype." A karyotype refers to an individual's complete set of chromosomes, which in Khelif's case has been reported by (IBA) as being XY, the male pattern. The leaked medical reports have sparked calls for Khelif to be stripped of the gold medal she won in the women's 66 kg category. However, Doraine Lambelet Coleman - a Thomas L. Perkins Distinguished Professor of Laws at Duke Law School - explained why that is unlikely. Trump rips into boxer Imane Khelif about controversial Olympics win against Angela Carini The legal expert told Newsweek: "The IOC would not revoke medals won by athletes who were eligible according to the rules it set for the boxing competition in Paris. "Unlike the eligibility rules set by the IBA and now World Boxing, those rules did not require competitors to be biologically female." The alleged test results carry the letterhead of Dr Lal PathLabs in New Delhi, accredited by the American College of Pathologists and certified by the Swiss-based International Organisation for Standardisation. This directly challenges what IOC spokesman Mark Adams said in a tense news conference at the Paris Olympics. He described the results that saw Khelif banned as 'ad hoc' and 'not legitimate'. IOC president Thomas Bach even claimed that the results are the product of a Russian-led misinformation campaign. It followed after the IBA - headed by Russia's Umar Kremlev - had been stripped of IOC recognition in a row over ethics and financial management. Khelif has always denied being a biological male and even named JK Rowling and Elon Musk in a cyberbullying lawsuit. And the 26-year-old has vowed to fight on, even eyeing another gold at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. 'Silence is no longer an option' But World Boxing has ruled that Khelif is ineligible to enter future events as a woman without first submitting to the same chromosome testing that has already triggered the boxer's disqualification at global level. The governing body - provisionally approved to run Olympic boxing in LA - announced that all athletes in its competitions over 18 years old must undergo a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genetic test to determine their sex. The test detects chromosomal material through a mouth swab, saliva or blood. Khelif has failed to provide any evidence of having female chromosomes in the nine months since the gender scandal erupted. In February, Khelif spoke out in her defence and wrote: 'For two years, I have taken the high road while my name and image have been used, unauthorised, to further personal and political agendas through the spreading and dissemination of baseless lies and misinformation. But silence is no longer an option. 'The IBA, an organisation that I am no longer associated with and which is no longer recognised by the IOC, have again made baseless accusations that are false and offensive, using them to further their agenda. "This is a matter that concerns not just me but the broader principles of fairness and due process in sport. 'My team is carefully reviewing the situation and will take all necessary legal steps to ensure that my rights and the principles of fair competition are upheld. "Those responsible for these actions must be held accountable, and we will pursue all legal avenues to ensure that justice prevails.' An IOC spokesperson told Sun Sport: "The IOC has always made it clear that eligibility criteria are the responsibility of the respective International Federation. "The factors that matter to sports performance are unique to each sport, discipline, and/or event. "We await the full details how sex testing will be implemented in a safe, fair and legally enforceable way."