News

Emergency department opt-out testing programme saves lives and represents good value for the NHS

26 June 2026

Routine HIV testing in emergency departments is a cost-effective way to identify people unaware of their HIV status, improve health outcomes and prevent future infections, a major study led by researchers at the University of Bristol has found. The findings, published in The Lancet HIV today [25 June], provide strong evidence to support the continuation of England's emergency department opt-out blood-borne virus testing programme.

Unsplash image of an insulin pen, diabetic measurement tools and pills on orange background

Participants needed for study to better understand type 1 diabetes burnout

24 June 2026

Are you living with type 1 diabetes and have experienced diabetes burnout? If so, researchers from the universities of Bristol and Cardiff Metropolitan want to hear from you for a study to learn more about diabetes burnout from people living with type 1 diabetes.

Link between parents’ and children’s weight is mostly genetic, study finds

23 June 2026

The link between parents’ body mass index (BMI) and their children’s BMI in childhood is driven largely by genetic inheritance, rather than by any direct biological effects of parental weight during pregnancy, a new study suggests. The collaborative international study by the universities of Bristol and Queensland and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health is published in PLOS Medicine today [23 June].

Four University of Bristol researchers honoured in King’s Birthday Honours

12 June 2026

Four University of Bristol researchers have been recognised in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours. The honours celebrate the outstanding contributions of a materials engineer, an epidemiologist, a genomics scientist and an ophthalmology researcher, highlighting the range of expertise and impact across the University’s research community.

Supermarket receipts show trends in menstrual pain relief

28 May 2026

More than a quarter of women buying menstrual products also purchase pain relief at the same time, and those in lower-income areas are significantly less likely to do so, according to new University of Bristol-led research.

Jonathan Sterne appointed as Chief Scientist of Health Data Research UK

26 May 2026

Professor Jonathan Sterne has been appointed as the new Chief Scientist of Health Data Research UK (HDR UK), taking up this role from June 2026.

Cancer researcher elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences

21 May 2026

A leading researcher working on the prevention and early detection of common cancers has been elected as a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences.

Pilot trial suggests anti-inflammatory drug could help difficult-to-treat depression

20 May 2026

Immunotherapy could be a promising new treatment option for patients with difficult-to-treat depression. This is a key finding from a University of Bristol-led pilot randomised controlled clinical trial, published in JAMA Psychiatry today [20 May].

Study questions usefulness of rapid microbiological point-of-care respiratory test

18 May 2026

A rapid microbiological point-of-care test designed to help GPs identify whether a respiratory infection is caused by a virus did not lead to an expected overall reduction in same-day antibiotic prescribing, a University of Bristol-led study has found.

Nic Timpson, Professor of Genetic Epidemiology at the Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences (PHS)

Bristol professor appointed co-chair of Nature Medicine Commission on Data-driven Obesity Management

12 May 2026

University of Bristol academic and Professor of Genetic Epidemiology, Nic Timpson, has been appointed co-chair of The Nature Medicine Commission on Obesity Management. Launched today [12 May], the Commission will bring together global experts and datasets to tackle the growing burden of obesity-related noncommunicable diseases through data-driven decision support.

A child drawing with chalk on an outdoor pavement Credit RDNE Stock project from Pexels

Specialist NHS weight loss clinics help children experiencing severe obesity to lead healthier lives

12 May 2026

Providing access to specialist NHS weight loss clinics that support children and young people living with complications from severe obesity, can enable better outcomes for weight loss, research, involving the University of Bristol, has found.

A 3D microscope image of healthy micro vessels in kidney tissue (specimen highlighting a glomerulus, one of millions of near identical filtering units within our kidneys). The sugars on the surface of the micro vessels and red blood cells (RBC) have both been labelled green, the underlying cell membranes have been labelled red and cell nuclei are blue.

Breakthrough blood test could detect heart and kidney disease earlier than ever before

12 May 2026

A new way to detect the onset of heart and kidney disease far earlier than previously possible has been discovered by University of Bristol scientists. The breakthrough, published today [12 May] in Nature Communications, reveals a novel method for identifying damage to the lining of microscopic blood vessels, transforming our ability to detect disease at its very earliest stages, before it progresses and becomes potentially life threatening.

Toxic mercury exposure might harm the body’s metabolism, study finds

7 May 2026

Exposure to one of the most toxic forms of mercury (methylmercury) may also disrupt the body’s metabolic health, according to the findings of a new international study. The research, involving University of Bristol scientists and published in Chemical Research in Toxicology, found the element may have wider health effects than previously known.

Fatal delays in EpiPen treatment for food anaphylaxis in children, finds research

28 April 2026

Fatal delays in administering life-saving adrenaline autoinjector (EpiPen) for food anaphylaxis, a severe and rapid allergic reaction, is highlighted in research being presented at the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Conference today [28 April]. Researchers are urging for updated guidelines on the use of adrenaline treatment such as EpiPens and the hospital management of severe food anaphylaxis.

iStock image of a school child stood in a corridor

A single stab wound kills at least two school-aged children every month

21 April 2026

At least two school-aged children die each month from knife injuries in England, with most fatalities resulting from a single stab wound, according to the first national analysis of its kind. The University of Bristol-led research offers critical insights that could help inform future prevention strategies.

Involving community members alongside healthcare professionals and easier access could boost vaccine uptake

15 April 2026

Extending vaccination opportunities, involving community members alongside healthcare professionals in communicating about vaccines, and providing financial incentives are among the most effective ways to increase vaccine uptake, an analysis of international trial evidence led by the University of Bristol has found. The research, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), is published in The BMJ today [15 April].

Researchers identify the most common recessive neurodevelopmental disorder ever discovered

30 March 2026

Researchers have identified and described a previously unknown recessive neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) that appears to be the most prevalent ever discovered. The study, involving University of Bristol researchers and published in Nature Genetics today [30 March], provides long-awaited answers for many families and may inform future drug development.

Eye bank celebrates 40 years of sight saving work

16 March 2026

The NHS is this month celebrating 40 years of what went on to become the NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) eye bank, with a special appeal from the bank’s longest serving staff member, who is encouraging more people to consider cornea donation as he awaits a fourth cornea transplant himself.

A young women vaping Credit Mayukh Karmakar from Pixabay

Disposable vapes ban could lead young adults to switch to cigarettes, study finds

11 March 2026

The disposable vapes ban in the UK could lead to young adults switching to alternative products, including cigarettes, new research led by the University of Bristol has found.

Professor Timothy Draycott, 1964-2025

11 March 2026

Professor Timothy Draycott MD, BSc, MBBS, FRCOG passed away in November 2025. His colleagues offer a remembrance.

Bristol part of new £50m consortium tackling one of UK’s biggest killers

3 March 2026

The University of Bristol is one of nine UK universities included in a new £50 million 'Inequalities Challenge Consortium' launched by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to support research into addressing inequalities in cardiovascular disease (CVD) which accounts for 26% of all deaths in the UK.

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic could cut risk of major heart complications after heart attack, study finds

3 March 2026

Weight-loss (GLP-1 mimicking) drugs may help prevent further tissue damage following a heart attack, significantly reducing the risk of further life-threatening complications that affect up to half of all patients, according to a new study led by the University of Bristol and University College London (UCL).

Global gaps in use of two life-saving antenatal treatments for premature babies, reveals worldwide analysis

25 February 2026

A new global analysis of two antenatal treatments that reduce the risk of cerebral palsy and respiratory complications in premature babies reveals significant international variation in implementation. The University of Bristol-led study, published in the International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology today [25 February], examined neonatal data from over 300,000 premature births across ten countries.

A young person standing on weighing scales

Childhood BMI changes genetically linked to adulthood diabetes and heart disease

23 February 2026

A new study has modelled how genes can influence a child’s body mass index (BMI) over time and how they may contribute to the risk of developing diseases, such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes, later in life.

Booster jabs reduce the risks of COVID-19 deaths, study finds

18 February 2026

Booster vaccines reduced the risk of COVID 19–related hospitalisation and death, according to a new study of over 3 million adults who had the autumn 2022 vaccine in England. The research led by the universities of Bristol and Oxford, provides further evidence of the effectiveness of booster vaccination against COVID-19.

Group of people Image by Tania Van den Berghen from Pixabay

High BMI could increase dementia risk, study finds

22 January 2026

High body mass index (BMI) could cause a higher risk of vascular-related dementia (a combination of vascular and unspecified dementia), according to new research from the University of Bristol and University Hospital of Copenhagen (Rigshospitalet and Herlev-Gentofte Hospital). The researchers found that the effect of high BMI on dementia mainly works through high blood pressure.

Elizabeth Coulthard, Professor of Cognitive Neurology at the University of Bristol

Bristol receives share of £16.5 million to investigate neurodegenerative diseases that give rise to dementia

20 January 2026

Can sleep affect the progression of Alzheimer’s disease? That’s what a study led by the University of Bristol will explore, thanks to a £4.3 million grant by the Medical Research Council (MRC).

A stock-free image of a pregnant woman having her blood pressure taken

Higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of pregnancy complications, study concludes

14 January 2026

Helping women to keep their blood pressure at normal levels could reduce their risk of experiencing pregnancy complications, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Bristol. The research is published in BMC Medicine today [14 January].

World-leading researchers unite for ‘pivotal’ study to help children and adults with arthritis to live drug free

6 January 2026

The prospect of long-lasting drug-free remission for children and adults living with inflammatory arthritis is a step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to a new collaboration between world-leading researchers, including the University of Bristol.

Global food systems driving twin crises of obesity and global heating

18 December 2025

Changing the consumption-driven nature of our food systems would significantly benefit public health and the climate, say the authors of a major scientific review linking environmental harms with obesity.

Pre-school health programme does not improve children’s diet or physical activity, prompting call for policy changes, study finds

18 December 2025

A pre-school diet and physical activity programme does not improve children’s calorie intake or overall physical activity levels in nursery settings, a new University of Bristol-led study has found. The research published in The Lancet Regional Health - Europe today [18 December] highlights the need for policy-led rather than intervention-led approaches to improving young children’s health.

A women sleeping with an alarm clock on a bedside table

Autumn clock change linked to reduction in certain health conditions

17 December 2025

The week after the autumn clock change is associated with a reduction in demand for NHS services for sleep disorders, cardiovascular disease, anxiety, depression, and psychiatric conditions in England, research led by the University of Bristol has found. The study is published in the Christmas issue of The BMJ today [17 December].

Professor Andrew Whitelaw, 1946-2025

11 December 2025

Professor Andrew 'Andy' Whitelaw, Chair in Neonatology at the University of Bristol and consultant neonatologist at Southmead neonatal intensive care unit, died on 9 November 2025 after a short illness. His colleagues in Bristol Medical School and North Bristol NHS Trust offer a tribute.

Nearly 1 in 5 UK emergency department patients cared for in corridors/waiting rooms

9 December 2025

At any one time, nearly 1 in 5 emergency department patients in the UK is being cared for in corridors, waiting rooms, and other non-standard ‘overflow’ spaces—an approach known as escalation area care—suggest the results of a large observational study. The research, led by the universities of Bristol and Edinburgh, North Bristol NHS Trust and NHS Lothian, is published online in Emergency Medicine Journal.

Preschoolers exercising by Lukas at Pexels

Most preschoolers failing to meet daily physical activity guidelines, study suggests

24 November 2025

Fewer than 1 in 4 children aged 2 to 4 meet the recommended daily physical activity levels, a new study has found. Additionally, while children are much more active on days when they attend early years settings, most preschoolers are not meeting the recommended activity levels within early years settings or at home.

Medical Research Council Millennium Medal awarded to preeminent British health scientist from Bristol

17 November 2025

One of the most influential figures in modern epidemiology, Professor George Davey Smith from the University of Bristol, has been awarded the UKRI Medical Research Council’s prestigious personal award for his exceptional contributions to improving human health through world-class medical research.

Inequalities in child deaths persist across England, new national data shows

13 November 2025

The latest national data on child deaths in England show that while overall deaths have slightly decreased, stark inequalities remain by region, ethnicity and deprivation level. The National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) at the University of Bristol, has released its annual Child Death Review Data Release for the year ending 31 March 2025.

Professor Kathreena Kurian with her late husband, Gerard

Brain tumour patients miss out on new treatments due to unequal access to tumour freezing and genetic testing, study warns

13 November 2025

Driven by personal loss, University of Bristol neuropathologist Professor Kathreena Kurian, who lost her husband Gerard to a brain tumour, is leading a national campaign to end postcode inequalities in brain tumour care — starting where it matters most: in the operating theatre.

A stock image of an elderly man holding a walking stick

Bristol trial for blood tests to diagnose dementia underway

4 November 2025

A groundbreaking trial to explore the potential of blood tests to diagnose dementia has begun at North Bristol NHS Trust, in collaboration with the University of Bristol. The research study marks a significant step toward improving the UK’s dementia diagnosis rate.

Selection of medicines by Jan from Pixabay

NHS policies to improve care for people taking multiple medicines may not be effective

21 October 2025

Current NHS policies designed to improve care for people taking multiple medicines may not be effective, according to new research led by the universities of Bristol and Exeter.

Longevity gene from supercentenarians offers hope for disease that causes rapid ageing in children

16 October 2025

A new breakthrough in a rare genetic disease which causes children to age rapidly has been discovered using ‘longevity genes’ found in people who live exceptionally long lives - over 100 years old. The research, by the University of Bristol and IRCCS MultiMedica, found these genes which helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy during ageing could reverse the damage caused by this life-limiting disease.

New weight loss pill aims to bridge gap in obesity treatments

15 October 2025

An innovative new pill could soon offer a new and affordable weight management treatment, following a successful clinical trial involving University of Bristol researchers and supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The results are published in Obesity today [15 October].

The winning team of the PEN Award 2025 ‘Communicating Effectively with Patients and Families’ category

Online guide launched to support people affected by vulval lichen sclerosus wins national award

14 October 2025

An online guide to support people affected by vulval lichen sclerosus (LS) has won a national award. Since its launch earlier this year, the guide has been viewed by over 23,000 people in more than 50 countries.

New breakthrough shows promise for protecting people against kidney damage in type 1 diabetes

14 October 2025

A new gene therapy approach aimed at protecting people with type 1 diabetes from developing diabetic kidney disease — a serious and common complication of the condition, has shown promising results in a University of Bristol study.

Artwork of a child's height being measured

New method brings growth charts to children with rare genetic conditions

13 October 2025

Growth charts for children with rare genetic disorders - giving healthcare professionals and families clearer guidance on how a child is developing - have been created by an international team, led by the University of Bristol.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs could reduce the risk of dementia, study finds

10 October 2025

Low cholesterol can reduce the risk of dementia, a new University of Bristol-led study with more than a million participants has shown.

Tweeting at night linked with worse mental wellbeing, new study finds

10 October 2025

Posting on Twitter (also known as X) throughout the night is associated with worse mental wellbeing, according to a new study from the University of Bristol published in Scientific Reports today [10 October].

View of people's legs walking along the pavement

Distribution of fat could influence cancer risk, study suggests

24 September 2025

How fat is distributed in people’s bodies could make a difference to their risk of certain cancers, according to new research led by the University of Bristol. The international study is published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) today [24 September].

New Mental Health Research Group launches to support young people

15 September 2025

Mental health problems can have a significant impact on people’s lives, with most emerging before the age of 25. Working in partnership with local organisations to enhance and complement existing mental health services, a new Mental Health Research Group (MHRG) has launched today [15 September].

Child deaths higher during winter in England, new analysis finds

10 September 2025

More child deaths occur in winter months compared with the rest of the year, new findings by the University of Bristol-led National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) have shown. The findings are published today [10 September]. NCMD records all child deaths in England before their 18th birthday.

Head of Bristol Medical School prepares for latest epic challenge in 20-year swimming history

18 August 2025

“Prioritise making time for what makes you happy,” says Professor Chrissie Thirlwell, who as well as being a Medical Oncologist and Head of the University of Bristol Medical School, is about to embark on the latest in a 20-year journey across the world’s seas as she raises money for a charity close to her heart.

Pioneering research reveals worldwide scale of Hepatitis C among babies and children

28 July 2025

A new study, coinciding with World Hepatitis day, has estimated for the first time the number of children born globally with hepatitis C virus.

New genetic analysis predicts risk of adult obesity from childhood

21 July 2025

A new genetic analysis using data from over five million people has provided a clearer understanding of the risk of going on to live with obesity. New research led by the Universities of Copenhagen and Bristol shows analysing genes at a young age may support early strategies to prevent obesity developing later in life.

University experts team up with Team GB hockey Olympian to make school PE kits fitter for purpose and put ball in pupils’ court

17 July 2025

Top researchers have united with Team GB hockey player and sports inclusivity trailblazer Tess Howard MBE on a mission to help teenage girls feel more comfortable in their school PE uniforms – and own bodies – in a bid to boost self-confidence and sports participation.

Image shows a painting of a parent holding a child's hand, created by a bereaved mother.

Research reveals majority of children who die in England have life-limiting conditions and exposes inequities in palliative care provision

10 July 2025

New research shows the majority of child deaths in England were among children with life-limiting conditions and highlights key shortcomings with their end-of-life care, prompting calls for urgent reform to tackle inequities in care.

Dr Tilly Gardener who graduated with a medical degree from the University of Bristol

Inspirational Bristol student overcomes eating disorder to graduate as a doctor

9 July 2025

An inspirational student whose dream of becoming a doctor was threatened after battling an eating disorder and learning that her BMI was below the General Medical Council’s fitness to practise threshold wants to show others that perseverance pays off as she graduates from the University of Bristol with a distinction in medicine. In the top 5% of her class, she’s now set to begin her first rotation in geriatrics — a field close to her heart — at an NHS hospital in Chesterfield and Derby.

Bristol graduate overcomes life-changing injuries to fulfil dream of becoming a doctor

8 July 2025

“It’s never too late” – these are the words Paul Edwards stands by, as he achieves his dream of graduating as a doctor from the University of Bristol. It's a milestone that almost never came as Paul’s journey to medicine began not with a university offer, but with a life-changing accident.

International experts and patients unite to help ensure all patients are fully informed before consenting to new surgical procedures

8 July 2025

Leading doctors, researchers, and lawyers have joined forces with patient representatives and created the first-ever information guide to better support and protect patients across the world who are considering pioneering, but also potentially risky, surgery.

New study finds routine vaccination holds key to reducing future mpox outbreaks in England

2 July 2025

Continuing to vaccinate for mpox through a routine targeted programme for gay and bisexual men delivered by sexual health services will greatly reduce the number of cases and save the NHS millions, new research has found.

New exhibition explores mental health and community through art

2 July 2025

How does it feel to live in Weston-super-Mare when you are struggling with your mental health? What resources exist in the local community – and what barriers are there to accessing them? A new free exhibition coming to Weston Museum from Tuesday 8 to Thursday 17 July explores these questions through the creative storytelling of people who often feel excluded.

‘Good’ fats and inflammation: more complex than first thought

24 June 2025

Omega-3 fatty acids, popularly believed to reduce inflammation in the body, appear to increase certain inflammatory markers, researchers have found.

A new bedtime recall exercise may enhance memory in older adults with and without Alzheimer's Disease

19 June 2025

A straightforward nightly activity may act as a memory-boosting tool, a new study led by the University of Bristol has revealed.

£2.5 million for largest trial to improve outcomes from treatment for blocked leg arteries

17 June 2025

Blocked leg arteries – often caused by diabetes or smoking – are very common, but if left untreated can lead to amputation, or even death. To improve blood flow, a procedure called an angioplasty is usually carried out, with patients given blood-thinning drugs afterwards. A new trial led by North Bristol NHS Trust, in collaboration with the University of Bristol and the Centre for Trials Research at Cardiff University, will compare three commonly prescribed blood-thinning tablets to find out which works best.

Suspended children are twice as likely to be involved in violence, even when accounting for their behaviour, finds new report

9 June 2025

A new study report has found that, even whilst controlling for a range of factors including measures of behavioural difficulties, children who are suspended or excluded from school are still nearly two and a half times more likely to become involved in violence and four and a half times more likely to offend compared to those who have not been suspended or excluded.

A kitten sitting. Image by Gundula Vogel from Pixabay

Research suggests earlier kitten neutering does not affect bodyweight in later life

3 June 2025

Cats that are neutered at four months old compared to the traditional six months old are not at any greater risk of weight problems as they age, new research has found.

Schoolchildren in a library image by rawpixel.com

Study reveals schools failing to address most common form of bullying: Weight-based victimisation

3 June 2025

A concerning gap in school anti-bullying policies has been revealed in a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded study by the University of Bristol and University of Bath. While weight-based bullying is reportedly the most common form experienced by students, fewer than 7% of schools in southwest England explicitly address it in their anti-bullying policies according to the study published in BMC Public Health.

Early detection key to improving treatment of uveitis, a leading cause globally of vision loss

28 May 2025

New treatment guidance has been developed to help doctors tackle uveitis — one of the leading causes of vision loss. The new clinical guidance, by a team at the University of Bristol, aims to help thousands of sufferers keep this painful eye condition at bay. The study is published in JAMA today [28 May].

Professor Nic Timpson, Principal Investigator for Children of the 90s at the University of Bristol and Co-Director of Population Research UK (PRUK)

Bristol professor joins Academy of Medical Sciences Fellowship

22 May 2025

A University of Bristol academic who is the Principal Investigator for the Children of the 90s health study has been elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences. Professor Nic Timpson joins 53 exceptional biomedical and health scientists from UK institutions selected to the Academy for their exceptional contributions to the advancement of medical science.

Study reveals stark ethnic and social disparities in stillbirths within individual hospitals and healthcare trusts in England

16 May 2025

Stillbirth rates are known to be higher for Black and Asian women than for white women, and those living in the most deprived areas are more at risk than those in the least deprived areas. Now a new University of Bristol-led study published in the Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (BJOG) today [16 May] reveals that these disparities exist even within individual hospitals and NHS Trusts.

School dinners may encourage picky teenagers to eat better, says new study

15 May 2025

Having school dinners rather than packed lunches could encourage picky eating 13-year-olds to eat a wider variety of foods, according to a new University of Bristol-led study. The findings are published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics today [15 May].

Breaking the cycle: supporting young boys in violent homes could prevent relationship violence, study suggests

1 May 2025

Young men growing up around parents who are physically violent to each other are 43% more likely to carry out violence or abuse in their own relationships, new University of Bristol research has found.

Depression and other mental health conditions linked with immune response, study finds

30 April 2025

Depression, schizophrenia and other mental health conditions affect 1 in 4 people in their lifetime, but mechanisms underlying these conditions are poorly understood. New research led by researchers at the University of Bristol has linked the body’s immune response with schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and bipolar disorder. The study demonstrates mental health conditions might be affected by the whole body as well as changes in the brain. The findings could pave the way for better treatments of some mental health conditions.

What research needs to be prioritised in global burns – results from a project spanning 88 countries

24 April 2025

Each year, more than 11 million people worldwide suffer serious life-changing burns, affecting both adults and children. The largest-ever project of its kind — the Priorities in Global Burns Research partnership, led by the University of Bristol — has identified the top 10 priorities in burns care research from 88 countries. The findings are published today [23 April] in The Lancet Global Health.

New UK Centre hopes to change public attitudes towards grief

24 April 2025

Grief affects everyone but is still very much a taboo subject in the UK. A new Centre - the first of its kind in the UK - hopes to shift public attitudes towards grief and create communities that are compassionate and connected in their support of people who are bereaved. The Centre for Grief Research and Community Engagement (Grief Centre) at the University of Bristol is launched today [24 April].

Study looks at impact of COVID-19 pandemic on rates of congenital heart disease procedures among children

14 April 2025

Major reallocation of healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic meant that elective surgery in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) was significantly reduced, so that those needing urgent, lifesaving and emergency surgery could be treated. However, this prioritisation of the most severely ill children did not increase overall post-operative complications rates or death, a study led by the University of Bristol has shown.

Study estimates proportion of adolescents living with overweight and obesity in England has increased by 50% between 2008 and 2023

12 April 2025

The proportion of adolescents living with overweight or obesity in England has increased by 50% from 2008-2010 (22%) to 2021-2023 (33%) according to two new studies involving University of Bristol researcher, Dr Dinesh Giri. The research is being presented at next month's [11-14 May] European Congress on Obesity (ECO).

Landmark study identifies new genetic cause of neurodevelopmental disorders, bringing long-awaited answers to families

10 April 2025

A new genetic cause of neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) has been uncovered by an international team of researchers. The discovery, published in Nature Genetics [10 Apr] and led by the University of Bristol, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York and KU Leven in Belgium, offers diagnostic certainty and hope to potentially thousands of families worldwide who have long been searching for answers.

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure—at least in the short term

8 April 2025

Relaxation techniques may help lower high blood pressure—at least in the short term—but the longer term effects are unclear, finds a pooled data analysis of the existing research. The study, led by the Universities of Bristol and Exeter and published in BMJ Medicine, is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

The AlcoWatch can be used to record data about daily drinking

Smartwatch technology could help with future alcohol interventions, new study finds

2 April 2025

Alcohol harm costs NHS England £3.5 billion annually, with 70 people dying every day from alcohol-related causes in the UK (1). According to new University of Bristol-led research smartwatches could provide a more accurate picture of people’s daily drinking habits than current methods. The technology could be a key element for future alcohol interventions.

Bristol BRC to host new translational research collaboration in surgery and perioperative care

1 April 2025

The NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) - hosted by the University of Bristol and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) - is bringing together 12 other BRCs to host a translational research collaboration focusing on surgery and perioperative care.

Landmark research recommends gastric bypass for people with severe obesity undergoing surgery

31 March 2025

Gastric bypass is the most clinically and cost effective form of interventional surgery for people living with severe obesity, reveals landmark research. The new University of Bristol-led trial, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), is published today [31 March] in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.

Gianni Angelini, BHF Professor of Cardiac Surgery

Bristol cardiac surgeon who pioneered life-saving surgery receives Lifetime Achievement Award

24 March 2025

Professor Gianni Angelini, Director of the Bristol Heart Institute at the University of Bristol, and cardiac surgeon at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW), has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Society for Coronary Artery Surgery for his pioneering work.

Young people on e-scooters. Image by Mircea Iancu from Pixabay

Electric scooter schemes reduce bicycle collisions by 20%, study suggests

21 March 2025

Electric scooter schemes appear to reduce the risk of bicycle collisions by around 20%, according to a University of Bristol-led study. The research, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), is published in Injury Prevention today [21 March].

Children of the 90s team with some of the study participants

Bristol study awarded £5.2 million to continue groundbreaking health research across three generations

7 March 2025

The Children of the 90s health study at the University of Bristol, which researches the lives of thousands of families in the south west, has been awarded £5.2 million to continue its pioneering work to improve people’s health.

Brilliant Bristol students win “ludicrously tight” University Challenge quarterfinal

4 March 2025

Bristol students came from behind to win the first of their University Challenge quarterfinals.

A Children of the 90s participant having their height measured by a nurse

Largest ever DNA resource for over 37,000 UK children and parents to unlock insights into child health and development

4 March 2025

For the first time, a new resource containing DNA sequencing data for over 37,000 children and parents collected over multiple decades from across the UK is now available to researchers worldwide. The resource, which includes data from three UK long-term birth cohorts including the University of Bristol’s Children of the 90s study, will allow scientists to explore the relationship between genetic and environmental factors in child health.

Paramedics in GP surgeries may ease workload but not NHS costs, study finds

28 February 2025

Paramedics working in GP surgeries help reduce GP workload but do not contribute to cost savings to the NHS, according to the first major study of the clinical and cost-effectiveness of paramedic compared with GP consultations.

Greater openness about the use of complementary and alternative medicines in UK dairy farming could bring benefits

26 February 2025

Greater openness about complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) use has the potential to strengthen farmer-vet relationships, which may prevent potential unintended harm to animals, reduce antibiotic use and improve herd health management, new research has found. The study, led by the University of Bristol, is published today [26 February] in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

Young adults more likely to switch from smoking to vaping when aware of reduced harm, but misinformation deters change

14 February 2025

Young adults are more likely to give up smoking and switch to vaping if they understand the reduced harm of vaping, according to a new study involving University of Bristol researchers. However, many inaccurately believe that vaping is as bad for you or worse than smoking.

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in childhood may protect 60% of 13-year-olds from smoking their first tobacco cigarette

11 February 2025

Teenagers may be less likely to start tobacco smoking if they take part in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) from childhood, a new study by the University of Eastern Finland in collaboration with the universities of Bristol and Exeter has shown. The results are published in Behaviour Research and Therapy.

A heart with an electrocardiogram in the background

Mechanical heart valve replacements have better long-term survival, study finds

11 February 2025

Patients aged between 50 to 70 years with a mechanical heart valve replacement had better long-term survival compared to those with a biological valve, new research led by the University of Bristol has found. The study is published in the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.

Age and gender impacts effectiveness of new gene therapy treatments for eye diseases, new study finds

10 February 2025

Older women could be vulnerable to harmful inflammation from new gene therapies to treat incurable eye diseases, new research has found. The University of Bristol-led study, published in Molecular Therapy, reveal how age and gender affects inflammation caused by gene therapy treatments and could cause damage to the eye. The findings could help improve the therapy’s effectiveness for eye conditions and highlights the need for personalised treatment to reduce risk and ensure a better outcome for all patients.

Innovative new pooch treats fuel food for thought about future of ‘greener’ diets

6 February 2025

Dogs in Bristol were amongst the first in the country to woof down snacks made from lab-grown meat in a bid to advance the future of alternative protein sources and help cut carbon emissions.

New AI project will predict a patient’s hospital readmission risk to help ease pressure on NHS

29 January 2025

A new University of Bristol-led project aims to ease pressure on the NHS by developing an artificial intelligence (AI) model to predict and reduce a patient’s risk of readmission to hospital.

NHS rolls out national genetic test to reduce risk of donor kidney failure

27 January 2025

Hundreds of potential kidney donors of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage can now get a simple blood test to help reduce the risk of kidney failure.

Child mortality has risen since pandemic, new study shows

23 January 2025

While child deaths in England fell temporarily during the COVID-19 pandemic, they have now risen to new heights, a new study from researchers at the University of Bristol and based on unique National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) data has found.

Family in Portugal having a meal. Credit Jorge Padeiro

Signposting children to weight management services could happen when parents attend an adult programme

21 January 2025

Parents attending an adult weight management programme, who were worried about their child’s weight, would accept support and signposting to services for their child if it was offered, new research led by the University of Bristol has found. The study is published today [21 January] in BMJ Paediatrics Open.

Bristol researchers part of £50M research award to develop cutting-edge new therapies for heart disease

20 January 2025

Bristol’s heart scientists are involved in one of two new Medical Research Council Centres of Research Excellence (MRC CoRE) that aims to develop new advanced therapeutics for currently untreatable diseases. Both Centres will receive up to £50 million each over 14 years.

Generic image of an iphone screen with social media apps.

Bristol researchers part of government project to understand impact of smartphones and social media on young people

17 January 2025

Bristol researchers are part of the first phase of a new research project that will lay the groundwork for future studies into the impact on children of smartphone and social media use.

New online guide launched to support people affected by lichen sclerosus

17 January 2025

A new online guide has launched to support and empower people with vulval lichen sclerosus (LS) to learn about the condition, access the right treatment and live more comfortably. It is estimated that around 1 in 100 women in the UK have vulval LS. It can be diagnosed at any age, but it seems to happen most often after the menopause. Nobody knows exactly what causes LS.

Waking up is not stressful, study finds

15 January 2025

Waking up does not activate an increase in the release of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol does, however, increase in the hours prior to wakening as part of the body’s preparation for the next day, new research led by the University of Bristol has found. The study is published today [15 January] in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

The smartwatch with smoking advice on the interface

Smartwatch technology helps people quit smoking, new study finds

1 January 2025

Whether people decide to make New Year resolutions or not, they might want to lead a healthier lifestyle in 2025. According to a new University of Bristol-led study smartwatches could help people give up smoking. The researchers tested a smartwatch fitted with a custom app which used the smartwatch's in-built motion sensors to detect typical smoking movements. The results, published in JMIR Formative Research, showed the technology has the potential to help over two thirds of trial participants quit the habit.

Transmission electron micrograph of herpes simplex virus

Over 1 in 5 adults worldwide has a genital herpes infection

16 December 2024

Around 846 million people aged between 15 and 49 are living with genital herpes infections – more than 1 in 5 of this age-group globally - according to new estimates. At least 1 person each second – 42 million people annually - is estimated to acquire a new genital herpes infection.

Child asthma deaths linked to air pollution, new report finds

12 December 2024

Of the 54 children who died of asthma between 2019 and 2023, more than 90 per cent were exposed to air pollution levels above World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, according to a new report published today [12 December] by the University of Bristol’s National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) team. The report uses the NCMD’s unique data on all child deaths in England to examine deaths due to asthma or anaphylaxis between April 2019 and March 2023.

Smoking tobacco from childhood can cause premature heart damage

11 December 2024

Two-thirds of children who started tobacco smoking at 10 years of age continued until their mid-twenties, significantly increasing their risk of early heart damage

New targets for diabetic kidney disease could prevent end stage kidney failure

10 December 2024

New potential therapeutic targets have been identified for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) - the leading cause of kidney failure in the world - that could see patients treated with new gene and drug therapies preventing the disease’s progression into end stage kidney failure. The study is published in Nature Communications.

Patients to help set the agenda for food allergy research

10 December 2024

Food allergies affect one in five children in the UK. To help set the priorities for future research, University of Bristol researchers are asking children and young people with food allergies, their parents, and health care professionals who care for them for their views.

Training to Nepalese healthcare providers

Intervention improves the healthcare response to domestic violence in low- and middle-income countries

27 November 2024

Culturally appropriate women-centred interventions can help healthcare systems respond to domestic violence, research has found. HERA (Healthcare Responding to Violence and Abuse) has been co-developing and evaluating a domestic violence and abuse healthcare intervention in low- and middle-income countries for the past five years. This National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Global Research Group will report their findings, and publish a PolicyBristol report, at a conference in London today [27 November].

A person sitting down holding their lower back

Researchers receive share of £7.8 million funding to evaluate digital self-management app for low back pain

26 November 2024

Low back pain affects many people in the UK, restricting their daily activities and accounting for 5 per cent of GP appointments. Researchers from the University of Bristol, UWE Bristol and St George’s University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, in collaboration with the Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board and getUBetter, have secured funding of over £1.3 million to evaluate the implementation of the musculoskeletal self-management app, getUBetter.

An image of the anti-seizure drug Lamotrigine with other medication

Anti-seizure drug Lamotrigine showed lowest risk of neurodevelopmental issues in study of 3 million children

15 November 2024

Children exposed to the anti-seizure drug lamotrigine during pregnancy were at no increased risk for autism or intellectual disability than those exposed to other anti-seizure medications, according to a new study on the use of eight different anti-seizure drugs published in Nature Communications today [15 November].

Over £1 million awarded to investigate Type 1 Diabetes onset in people with early disease markers

14 November 2024

Two new studies to understand more about type 1 diabetes and how it develops in people who already have early markers of the disease in their blood are announced today [14 November] on World Diabetes Day. The awards, totalling over £1 million will help University of Bristol researchers find out how the disease, which affects up to 400,000 people in the UK, could be prevented in future.

Study identifies hip implant materials with the lowest risk of needing revision

7 November 2024

Hip implants with a delta ceramic or oxidised zirconium head and highly crosslinked polyethylene liner or cup had the lowest risk of revision during the 15 years after surgery, a new University of Bristol-led study has found. The research could help hospitals, surgeons and patients to choose what hip implant to use for replacement surgery.

Daylight saving time clock changes have substantial, but short-lived effect on how much sleep we get

25 October 2024

With the clocks going back this weekend, a new study has found that moving the clocks one hour forward in Spring and one hour back in Autumn has a substantial, but short-lived effect on sleep duration.

Lucy Westover with the Carbon Literacy Project accreditation award.

Bristol Medical School UK’s first to achieve climate accreditation by UN-recognised body

16 October 2024

Bristol Medical School has been awarded Carbon Literate Educator accreditation for its commitment towards tackling climate change.

Image shows Julie Martin, pictured on the right, with colleagues

Gambling harms survivor shares how habit stole her husband and a fortune

11 October 2024

Discovering the family home had been remortgaged and credit cards maxed out in her name was the first time Julie Martin became aware of her husband’s relentless gambling addiction.

New Lancet Commission calls for urgent action on self-harm across the world

9 October 2024

Self-harm remains neglected worldwide, with at least 14 million episodes yearly. A new Lancet Commission, led by University of Bristol researchers, urges policy action on societal drivers and health services’ response to this pressing issue. The report, involving an international team of experts, is published today [9 October].

University of Bristol spinout Purespring Therapeutics announces £80m fund to transform the treatment of kidney diseases

9 October 2024

A University of Bristol spinout company focused on transforming the way kidney diseases are treated has announced an £80m fund raising to help realise the development of a pivotal new therapeutic treatment.

An image from Granny Jackson's Dead by Big Telly Theatre Company

Live wake to pop up in suburban home for seaside town's grief festival

8 October 2024

Members of the public are invited to be part of a live Irish-style wake this week [Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 October] to explore how new digital technologies can influence the way we memorialise and remember loved ones.

Generic istock image of amitriptyline tablets

RCGP Research Paper of the Year Award for IBS study

3 October 2024

A trial that showed a cheap and widely available prescription drug can improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in patients seen in GP surgeries has been awarded Research Paper of the Year by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP).

A pregnant woman at St Michael's Hospital in Bristol reading a Generation Study leaflet.

First newborn babies tested for over 200 genetic conditions as world-leading study begins in Bristol

3 October 2024

Hundreds of babies have begun to be tested for over 200 rare genetic conditions as part of a world-leading study delivered by a University of Bristol team and run in NHS hospitals that aims to screen up to 100,000 newborns in England.

Health disparities in preterm births in England, study finds

3 October 2024

Preterm birth rates are lower than the national average for White women and higher for Black and Asian women, and women living in the most deprived areas according to a new University of Bristol-led study published in BMC Medicine.

New intervention to protect lungs during cardiac surgery, feasible, safe, and effective, study finds

26 September 2024

A new intervention which keeps lungs regularly expanding when using a heart-lung machine during heart valve surgery might protect lung function and exercise capacity in adult patients after the operation, a University of Bristol-led clinical trial has found.

Inexpensive drug can prevent cerebral palsy in premature babies

24 September 2024

Giving women at risk of premature birth a simple magnesium sulphate infusion (or ‘drip’) can prevent their babies from developing cerebral palsy, a recent Cochrane review has confirmed. A new editorial by Bristol's Professor Karen Luyt calls for this intervention to be implemented more widely and equitably, as it is still not consistently available worldwide.

Kathreena Kurian, Professor of Neuropathology and Honorary Consultant at NBT, Head of the Brain Tumour Research Centre at the University of Bristol and a member of the Bristol Network

A new way forward for patients with a brain tumour

12 September 2024

A new landmark report, led by the University of Bristol researchers, highlights that access to genomic testing for patients with a brain tumour, is inequitable: it is estimated that fewer than 5 per cent of eligible adult patients with a brain tumour are accessing certain tests.

Good Grief Weston: a Festival of Love & Loss, returns this October

9 September 2024

Good Grief Weston, the festival of love and loss returns to the town in October [10 to 13] for its second edition. The event, which involves University of Bristol researchers, aims to open up conversations around death and bereavement, with honesty, compassion, joy and sometimes with humour.

Sally smiling at the camera in front of some seats making a heart shape with her fingers

Paralympic dreams: University of Bristol athletes set to shine in Paris

28 August 2024

As the world turns its attention back to Paris for the 2024 Paralympic Games, three athletes with ties to the University of Bristol are preparing to showcase their talents in badminton, boccia and triathlon.

Bristol's University Challenge team smile on the show's set.

Bristol quizzers set for University Challenge debut

26 August 2024

Four University of Bristol students will test their quizzing mettle tonight, in the first clash of their University Challenge campaign.

World first genome wide study of which people make the best stem cell donors

23 August 2024

A world-first study to identify which genes make some people stem cell super donors has begun by NHS Blood and Transplant and University of Bristol researchers.

Study of 18 million people finds increased mental illnesses incidence following severe COVID-19, especially in unvaccinated people

21 August 2024

A new study that examined health data on 18 million people reveals higher incidence of mental illnesses for up to a year following severe COVID-19 in unvaccinated people. Vaccination appeared to mitigate the adverse effects of COVID-19 on mental illnesses. The University of Bristol-led study, published in JAMA Psychiatry today [21 August], investigated associations of COVID-19 with mental illnesses according to time since diagnosis and vaccination status.

Professors Jenny Donovan and Freddie Hamdy being presented with the 2024 ASPI Special Award via an online ceremony

ProtecT trial receives award for pioneering research demonstrating the safety of active surveillance

13 August 2024

A study to find out the best ways of treating prostate cancer has been named the 2024 recipient of the Active Surveillance Patients International (ASPI) Special Award. The ProtecT trial, led by the Universities of Bristol and Oxford, received the award for game-changing research in the development of the active surveillance approach to managing low-risk prostate cancer. Their research has proved active monitoring in patients with lower-risk prostate cancer was as safe as aggressive treatments.

Bristol Medical School lecturer awarded prestigious teaching accolade

8 August 2024

University of Bristol lecturer Dr Jo Hartland (they/them) has been named a National Teaching Fellow (NTF), the most prestigious award for teaching in UK higher education.

Around 160,000 joint replacement surgeries lost by COVID-19 pandemic, study finds

1 August 2024

Nearly nine months of joint replacement surgery has been lost - around 160,000 fewer operations – since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study led by the University of Bristol has found. The research suggests returning to pre-pandemic levels will not tackle the backlog, and even with rapid expansion, it will take many years, if not decades, to fix this joint replacement crisis.

New prediction model could help inform patients of their risks of having shoulder replacement surgery

31 July 2024

A new model to predict the risk of serious complications after shoulder replacement surgery has been developed in a collaboration between researchers from the Universities of Oxford, Bristol, and Copenhagen. The model, published in The Lancet Rheumatology today [31 July], could be an important tool to help both patients and doctors make more informed decisions about this common procedure.

Incidence of heart attacks and strokes was lower after COVID-19 vaccination, finds study of 46 million adults

31 July 2024

A new study involving nearly the whole adult population of England has found that the incidence of heart attacks and strokes was lower after COVID-19 vaccination than before or without vaccination. The research, involving University of Bristol researchers, is published in Nature Communications today [31 July].

Xander smiles in front of the Wills Memorial Building. He is wearing a pale suit and is sitting in his wheelchair.

Doctor, athlete, wheelchair user: Meet the unstoppable Xander

26 July 2024

When Xander Van der Poll fell from a tree, becoming paralysed from the waist down, some told him his dream of becoming a doctor was over.

Dr Becs Bradford smiles in her graduation cap and gown

‘Inspirational’ care leaver, 41, achieves dream of becoming doctor

24 July 2024

A care leaver who sat her first GCSE aged 35 has graduated as a doctor.

New study identifies two proteins that may contribute to stroke recurrence

22 July 2024

People who experience an arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic stroke (TIA) are at an increased risk of suffering a second stroke or other major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), making it critically important to identify risk factors and treatments to prevent these subsequent occurrences. The new study, led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) and University of Bristol researchers, has identified new genetic and molecular risk factors that may reveal new pathways for treating patients after they experience their first stroke.

Image shows graffiti image of a female sat on a swing upheld by heart balloons.

Research to help tackle knife crime in Bristol makes headway

22 July 2024

Researchers at the University of Bristol are joining forces with Bristol City Council and other partners in a bid to help reduce knife crime locally and beyond.

Ultra-processed food makes up almost two-thirds of calorie intake of UK adolescents

17 July 2024

Adolescents consume around two-thirds of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods (UPFs) new research from the Universities of Bristol and Cambridge has found.

Time to act on kidney health inequalities, report reveals

16 July 2024

Kidney health inequalities due to age, sex, education, location or lack of wealth persist, despite widespread awareness of the barriers some people face, a new report by Kidney Research UK has revealed.

New initiative to boost region’s thriving life sciences sector

10 July 2024

A new initiative to increase the visibility of the South West’s growing life sciences ecosystem has been launched.

Pioneering clinical epidemiologist among outstanding scientists elected to EMBO

9 July 2024

George Davey-Smith, Professor of Clinical Epidemiology, has been elected to the prestigious EMBO Membership, an honour which recognises research excellence and outstanding achievements in the life sciences.

Professor Wooldridge, Chair in Translational Immunology

£1.74 million to improve life-saving potential of stem cell treatment for blood cancer

1 July 2024

Outcomes for patients with blood cancer could be improved in future thanks to a £1.74 million Cancer Research UK award. The University of Bristol-led research, comprising an international team of scientists and clinical academics, will investigate why stem cell transplantation, which is used to treat blood cancers, cures the disease in some patients but can fail or cause severe side effects in others.

Majority of female cancer survivors at low risk of developing most obstetric complications

26 June 2024

The majority of women who have survived a cancer diagnosed age 15-39 are at low risk of obstetric complications, a new study has found.

Novel Bristol therapeutic to target atheroschlerosis

24 June 2024

Scientists at the University of Bristol have uncovered a new disease driving mechanism which they are aiming to target to help treat the development of atherosclerotic plaques.

People walking down Buchanan Street in Glasgow

Community-based early HIV testing and treatment could successfully manage and prevent emerging HIV outbreaks among people who inject drugs, study suggests

17 June 2024

Community-based testing and treatment response to Glasgow’s HIV outbreak among people who inject drugs (PWID) successfully brought the 2015 outbreak under control, modelling led by academics at the University of Bristol suggests. The study’s findings, published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases (JID), indicate that approximately three times as many people would have been infected by 2020 if these interventions had not been implemented.

Restricting flavoured vapes could harm smoking cessation efforts, finds study

13 June 2024

Restricting the choice of flavoured vapes, also known as e-cigarettes, could have an adverse effect on the many adults who use them to reduce or quit smoking, according to a new University of Bristol-led study published in the journal Harm Reduction.

Boosting key protein in eye cells could prevent age-related vision loss, finds international team

5 June 2024

Increasing the levels of a key protein in the cells at the back of the eye could help protect against the leading cause of vision loss among older adults, finds a new discovery made by researchers from the UK, US, Germany and Australia. The University of Bristol-led findings are published today [5 June] in Science Translational Medicine and featured on the front cover.

Richard Welbourn,Honorary Associate Professor in Surgery at the University of Bristol

Richard Welbourn appointed as Honorary Associate Professor in Surgery

5 June 2024

Richard Welbourn, Consultant Bariatric Surgeon at Musgrove Park Hospital (MPH), Taunton, has been appointed as Honorary Associate Professor in Surgery at the University of Bristol.

Researchers identify a genetic cause of intellectual disability affecting tens of thousands of people

31 May 2024

A neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by mutations in a single gene, affecting tens of thousands of people worldwide, has been identified by researchers. The work, published today [31 May] in Nature Medicine, was conducted by researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York in collaboration with colleagues at the University of Bristol, KU Leuven, Belgium; and the NIHR BioResource (currently based at the University of Cambridge).

Generic image of a pregnant woman stood by road with polluting cars

Prenatal exposure to air pollution associated with increased mental health risks

28 May 2024

A baby’s exposure to air pollution while in the womb is associated with the development of certain mental health problems once the infant reaches adolescence, new research has found. The University of Bristol-led study, published in JAMA Network Open today [28 May], examined the long-term mental health impact of early-life exposure to air and noise pollution.

Epidural linked to reduction in serious complications after childbirth

23 May 2024

Expanding access to epidural analgesia could improve maternal health, say researchers. Having an epidural during labour is associated with a marked reduction in serious complications in the first few weeks after giving birth, finds a study involving University of Bristol researchers, published in The BMJ.

Professors Gene Feder and Eugenia Piddini

Bristol professors join Academy of Medical Sciences Fellowship

23 May 2024

Two Bristol academics, Professors Eugenia Piddini and Gene Feder OBE, have been elected to the Academy of Medical Sciences’ respected and influential Fellowship. They join 58 exceptional biomedical and health scientists selected for their exceptional contributions to the advancement of medical science.

Cash incentives drive weight loss in men

14 May 2024

A major UK study led by health experts at the University of Stirling in partnership with the universities of Bristol; New Brunswick, Canada; Aberdeen; Glasgow and Queen’s University Belfast, has found that offering text messages with financial incentives is effective in helping men to lose weight.

Adiposity in childhood affects the risk of breast cancer by changing breast tissue composition, study suggests

13 May 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. With rates continuing to rise, there is an urgent need to identify new modifiable breast cancer risk factors. New research led by the University of Bristol suggests that higher adiposity in childhood leads to less dense breast tissue forming, which results in a reduced breast cancer risk. However, further research is needed to understand the mechanism of the overall protective effect of childhood adiposity to identify new targets for intervention and prevention.

A stethoscope on a desk by a computer keyboard

Unlocking insights into insomnia: UK Biobank data reveals discrepancies between reported symptoms and GP records

8 May 2024

GP data can provide unique insights into common health conditions, new research looking at insomnia symptom prevalence in England has shown. The University of Bristol-led study, published in BMJ Open today [8 May], also highlights the value of improving access to this data for future health research.

Anatomical and reverse total shoulder replacements

New study sheds light on the debate surrounding two types of shoulder replacement surgery for osteoarthritis

1 May 2024

A new study has provided valuable insights into the ongoing debate surrounding two types of shoulder replacement surgery: reverse total shoulder replacement and anatomical total shoulder replacement as a treatment for patients with osteoarthritis.

L to R: Dr Phuong Hua, Dr Andrew Turner, Dr Roxanne Parslow, Prof Matt Ridd, Dr Raquel Granell, Catriona Rutter

New Centre for Applied Excellence in Skin and Allergy Research at Bristol

25 April 2024

A new Centre for Applied Excellence in Skin and Allergy Research (CAESAR) is to be set up at Bristol.

Bristol spin-out Dynamic Therapeutics wins prestigious Blavatnik Prize for U-RHYTHM technology

25 April 2024

Dynamic Therapeutics, a University of Bristol spin-out, has today [25 April] been awarded a prestigious Blavatnik Prize by QantX, a leading venture capital firm, for its pioneering U-RHYTHM technology. The award recognises the scientific advances and future potential of the UK's most innovative scientists and engineers.

New £10.4 million research centre will unlock new tests, treatments and cures for people living with rare kidney diseases

23 April 2024

Thousands of people living with rare kidney disease will get access to improved diagnostics, treatments and potentially cures, thanks to the creation of a new research centre, involving experts from the University of Bristol.

Opioid dependence remains high but stable in Scotland, new surveillance report finds

18 April 2024

Opioid dependence in Scotland remains high but largely stable, according to a new University of Bristol-led analysis published in Addiction today [18 April] and by Public Health Scotland. The study is the first to estimate the number of people dependent on opioid drugs (such as heroin), and who are in or could benefit from drug treatment, among Scotland’s population since 2015/2016 estimates were published.

Family and media pressure to lose weight in adolescence linked to how people value themselves almost two decades later

16 April 2024

People who as teenagers felt pressure to lose weight from family or from the media, females, sexual minorities, and people experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage, are most at risk of 'internalised' weight stigma, new research led by the University of Bristol has found. The study is published in The Lancet Regional Health Europe today [16 Apr].

The DermSpectrum team (left to right) Harvey Hill, Elizabeth Maregere and Mariana Wickramarachchi inside the University of Bristol's Wills Memorial Building

Students tackle gap in black and brown skin cancer diagnosis

11 April 2024

Three medical students are solving the shocking disparity in skin cancer care between those with dark skin and those with white skin.

Call to reduce repeat 'within-episode' antibiotic prescriptions for respiratory tract infections in primary care

8 April 2024

A new study exploring the use of repeat antibiotic prescriptions for the same respiratory tract infection (RTI) episode – known as repeat 'within-episode' prescriptions – in primary care has found high rates of their use in England, despite evidence that they are of little benefit. The study authors, from the Universities of Bristol, Bath, King's College London, and University Medical Center Utrecht, are calling for a reduction in their use and to make them a target for antimicrobial stewardship interventions.

A man having a consultation with a doctor

Screening with a PSA test has a small impact on prostate cancer deaths but leads to overdiagnosis

6 April 2024

The largest study to date investigating a single invitation to a PSA blood test* to screen for prostate cancer has found it had a small impact on reducing deaths, but also led to overdiagnosis and missed early detection of some aggressive cancers. The CAP trial, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and carried out by researchers from the universities of Bristol, Oxford and Cambridge, involved over 400,000 men aged 50-69. Just under half received a single invitation for a PSA test as part of the trial.

Dr Santi Rodriguez, 1971-2024

5 April 2024

Dr Santi Rodriguez, Associate Professor in Medical Education, passed away after a brief illness in March 2024. His colleagues offer a remembrance.

Matt Lodge, 1990-2024

3 April 2024

Matt Lodge, ALSPAC Research Secretary and Clinic Administrator, sadly passed away in March. His friends and colleagues Anna and Jill offer their tribute.

Ella White smiles while wearing a Mind running vest. Behind her are the colourful houses of Bristol's Harbourside.

Student who beat eating disorder now running London Marathon

27 March 2024

An inspirational student who spent nine months in an eating disorder clinic wants to show others “there is always hope”.

University of Bristol and UCL to lead support hub for UK's longitudinal population studies

27 March 2024

The University of Bristol and UCL will lead the Population Research UK (PRUK) co-ordination hub, part of an existing strategic investment from the UKRI Infrastructure Fund.

A glomerulus (kidney filter) from a patient with diabetes

Study highlights potential new approach for early intervention for diabetic patients at risk of kidney disease

27 March 2024

Researchers at the University of Bristol have uncovered a mechanism by which a hormone can protect the blood vessels in the kidneys from the damage caused by diabetes. In doing so, the team has identified a potential early treatment strategy to prevent or slow progression of kidney disease in people with diabetes. The study, part-funded by Kidney Research UK, is published in Diabetes.

Surgical team in an operating theatre, working on a patient

Patient recovery after surgery for oesophageal cancer isn’t influenced by using standard or keyhole incisions

25 March 2024

New research has found no evidence of a difference between recovery time and complications when comparing standard and keyhole surgical incisions for the treatment of oesophageal cancer (cancer of the gullet). The study, led by the University of Bristol Medical School and published in the British Journal of Surgery, showed surgeons treating patients with oesophageal cancer do not need to change their practice if they have a strong preference for either procedure type.

New online resource to help healthcare professionals treat patients with infections after hip replacement surgery

21 March 2024

Although infection after hip replacement surgery is relatively rare (around 1 in 100), the impact on patients’ lives can be devastating. A new NHS England eLearning programme, website and toolkit has been developed to help healthcare professionals understand and implement best-practice guidelines on treating and supporting patients with prosthetic hip joint infection.

Nudging the public’s thirst for draught alcohol-free beers could significantly reduce alcohol-associated harms

21 March 2024

Making alcohol-free beer more widely available on draught in pubs and bars may help people switch from alcoholic to alcohol-free beer, a new study published in Addiction today [21 March], has found. Pubs and bars taking part in the University of Bristol-led trial saw an increase in sales of healthier non-alcoholic draught beer.

Bristol’s Children of the 90s seeks participants to attend its biggest ever clinic

21 March 2024

Thousands of Bristol and Weston families are already part of the world-renowned Children of the 90s health study based at the University of Bristol. Their participation has led to many scientific discoveries about health. From how babies can safely sleep on their backs to genes that may cause obesity or deteriorating liver health in young people – much of what is now known about health is due to Children of the 90s data, and the study is now calling on more people to take part.

Bristol heart research receives funding boost thanks to European partnership

20 March 2024

A Bristol researcher will join forces with a team in the Netherlands to drive breakthroughs in heart and circulatory diseases research, thanks to a pioneering partnership between the British Heart Foundation (BHF), Dutch Heart Foundation (DHF) and German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK).

Waist-to-height ratio detects fat obesity in children and adolescents significantly better than BMI, study finds

14 March 2024

An inexpensive measure of obesity in children and adolescents that could replace body mass index (BMI) has been identified in a new study as waist circumference-to-height ratio. This measure detected excess fat mass and distinguished fat mass from muscle mass in children and adolescents more accurately than BMI. The study, published in Pediatric Research, was conducted in collaboration between the universities of Bristol, Exeter and Eastern Finland.

Rapid realist review reveals how to achieve effective virtual wards for people with frailty

14 March 2024

Proactive care, a whole-system approach and a ‘team-of-teams’ are important elements in achieving effective virtual wards for people with frailty, according to the first rapid realist review of the evidence. The findings of the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded review, published in Age and Ageing and involving University of Bristol researchers, also apply to multidisciplinary virtual wards for other complex conditions.

£2.2 million for clinical trial to improve general practice response to men and children affected by domestic abuse

14 March 2024

A new clinical trial of a general practice programme to improve the identification and referral of men and children affected by domestic abuse begins in May thanks to a £2.2 million National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) award to University of Bristol researchers, in partnership with Oxford University and the social enterprise IRISi.

Mixed media finalist artwork in the form of a knitted blanket from Zimbabwe

Creative Art of Ageing competition proves hit with Zimbabwe and The Gambia communities

11 March 2024

A creative arts competition giving older people in Zimbabwe and The Gambia a platform to express their experiences about ageing saw hundreds of entries showcase their artistic talent across four categories: music, dance, prose, and mixed media from across both countries. The competition, part of a University of Bristol led research project, hopes to improve the health and wellbeing of older people living in sub-Saharan Africa.

New films share first-hand family experiences of living in unhealthy places

6 March 2024

Four families explain the toll of living conditions on their physical and mental health in a series of films to help change urban planning policy and practice in the UK.

Anti-diabetic drugs could lower risk of primary and secondary brain cancer

22 February 2024

Diabetic patients who take anti-diabetic drugs - known as glitazones – long term had a lower risk of primary and secondary brain cancer compared with diabetic patients on other medications, new research led by the University of Bristol has found.

Droughts may trigger HIV transmission increase among women in rural sub-Saharan Africa, study finds

20 February 2024

Droughts have the potential to increase the spread of HIV for women living in rural parts of Africa, researchers at the University of Bristol have found.

Global research network to combat deadly Strep A infections

15 February 2024

Bristol researchers are part of a newly-launched multi-institution network to research bacterial cause of sepsis and heart damage in children. Each year, around half a million people, including many children and young people, die around the world because of serious group A streptococcal (Strep A) bacterial infections. While most cases are relatively mild – affecting only the skin or throat - some infections can lead to deadly sepsis or autoimmune damage to the heart. There is currently no available vaccine for Strep A.

National partnership to tackle health inequalities in coastal communities awarded £2.4 million

15 February 2024

A national partnership led by researchers at the Universities of Bristol and Liverpool has received £2.4 million to tackle health inequalities in coastal communities.

Medical student, 19, becomes pro Ironman triathlete

13 February 2024

A 19-year-old medicine student has just become a professional Ironman triathlete – despite only starting training in 2020.

Risk of death 12% higher for non-White children in England

12 February 2024

Twelve percent of infant deaths in England could be avoided if all infants in England had the same risk of death as White infants, a new University of Bristol-led study shows. Such a change, which equates to more than 200 deaths per year, would bring England – which currently has one of the highest infant mortality rates in Europe – in line with other EU nations.

New drug could prevent diabetic eye and kidney disease in people with diabetes

2 February 2024

New research has shown a new type of inhibitor drug could prevent microvascular diabetic complications, such as diabetic eye and kidney disease. The University of Bristol-led research is published in Cardiovascular Diabetology.

Compilation of library images of young people

‘Loneliness loop’ risks trapping young people in repeating cycle of abuse, UK study of intimate partner violence and abuse finds

1 February 2024

A detailed study of intimate partner violence and abuse (IPVA) among young people in the UK has found that a 'loneliness loop' risks trapping young people in a repeating cycle of abuse. The University of Bristol-led research, which analysed survey data from 3,000 young people, recommends early intervention to prevent young people from experiencing IPVA.

A person checking their blood glucose level

Weight loss intervention in people with type 2 diabetes influences cancer-associated proteins

30 January 2024

A weight loss intervention in people with type 2 diabetes was found to alter levels of cancer-related proteins, according to the findings of a new University of Bristol-led study. The study, published in eBioMedicine, is the first to show that weight loss in people recently diagnosed with diabetes can change the levels of cancer-related chemicals circulating in the blood.

Supporting childbearing women to maintain a healthy weight could reduce the risk of pregnancy complications, study finds

29 January 2024

Supporting women of childbearing age to have a healthy weight could reduce the risk of several pregnancy complications, new research led by the University of Bristol has found. The international collaborative study is published in BMC Medicine today [29 January].

IRIS+ programme extends the health care response to domestic abuse

26 January 2024

Expanding the IRIS (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) domestic abuse programme to include men and children and young people is both feasible and potentially cost-effective, University of Bristol researchers have found.

Can looking after teeth and gums protect against dementia?

16 January 2024

People with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment are already taking part in research to investigate whether improving oral health can slow memory loss but even more people are needed to help. The MySmile study, led by the University of Bristol, wants to find out if a daily brushing routine could help to protect against dementia.

Exposure to high humidity and temperature in pregnancy could influence blood pressure changes in childhood

10 January 2024

Outdoor humidity and temperature levels during pregnancy could affect the future blood pressure of the unborn child, according to new research by the University of Bristol, published in JACC: Advances.

Diet in childhood linked to blood vessel damage in teenage years

10 January 2024

Diets high in calories, fat and sugar in childhood can cause damage to blood vessel function, known to heighten the risk of early heart attacks and strokes, as early as adolescence according to research funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF). The team behind the University of Bristol-led study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition today [10 January], say their findings highlight the importance of healthy eating habits throughout life to protect heart health.

[l] Professor John Iredale; [r] Professor Ronald Hutton

University of Bristol clinical scientist, historian, alumnus and members of staff recognised in King's New Year Honours

30 December 2023

Two academics at the University of Bristol, clinical scientist, Professor John Iredale, and historian, Professor Ronald Hutton, alumnus Gregory Doran, alumnus and member of staff Sandy Mitchell, and former member of staff, Dr Teame Mebrahtu have been recognised for their significant achievements in this year's King's New Year Honours list.

15% of child deaths linked to infections, new report finds

14 December 2023

Fifteen per cent of child deaths in England over the last three years are related to infection, according to a new report published today [14 December] by the University of Bristol’s National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) team. The report uses the NCMD’s unique data on all child deaths in England to examine 1,507 infection-related deaths between April 2019 and March 2022.

International acclaim for tobacco-themed drama inspired by University of Bristol research

12 December 2023

A four-part audio-drama, Tobias and Syd, launched earlier this year and inspired by University of Bristol and Durham University research, is currently ranked second in the Audio Fiction World Cup and is the top UK podcast.

Bristol researcher wins BHF Research Story of the Year for work on children’s heart plaster

7 December 2023

A University of Bristol researcher who has developed a new type of 'heart plaster' that could improve the way surgeons treat children living with congenital heart disease has won this year's British Heart Foundation (BHF) Research Story of the Year. The award is part of the charity's annual Heart Hero Awards 2023.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) invading bronchial epithelium

Drugs already licensed could be trialled to potentially treat secondary brain cancer, new research finds

29 November 2023

The largest review of papers for brain cancer that has spread from the lungs has found abnormalities in the brain cancer and for which licensed drugs could be clinically trialled to find out if they could treat the disease. The research led by the University of Bristol and published in Neuro-Oncology Advances also found genetic differences between smokers and non-smokers.

New research finds that ultra-processed foods taste no better than less processed foods

27 November 2023

New research that compared the taste perception of less processed foods with ultra-processed foods (UPFs), found participants viewed UPFs no more pleasant tasting than less processed foods. The University of Bristol-led findings, published in the journal Appetite today [27 November], supports the theory that humans are programmed to learn to like foods with more equal amounts of carbohydrate and fat. Carbohydrate (including sugars) and fat provide most of the calories in human diets.

New treatment intervention for male urinary problems shown to reduce symptoms

24 November 2023

A new intervention for men with urinary problems trialled across GP practices has shown a sustained reduction in symptoms. Findings from the University of Bristol-led Treating Urinary Symptoms in Men in Primary Healthcare (TRIUMPH) study, involving over 1,000 participants and 30 GP practices, have been published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ). The study was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Two Bristol academics land prestigious European Research Council grants

23 November 2023

Two University of Bristol academics have been awarded prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grants to continue their pioneering research.

University of Bristol joins innovative therapeutic drug discovery partnership

22 November 2023

The University of Bristol has joined the Evotec beLAB1407 BRIDGE Partnership, an innovative venture aiming to advance new therapeutic drug discoveries.

Obesity may not be the only factor to link ultra-processed foods to higher risk of mouth, throat and oesophagus cancers

22 November 2023

Eating more ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may be associated with a higher risk of developing cancers of upper aerodigestive tract (including the mouth, throat and oesophagus), according to a new study led by researchers from the University of Bristol and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Matthew Ridd, Professor of Primary Health Care

Bristol primary health care professor awarded NIHR award

20 November 2023

A University of Bristol professor of primary care and GP is one of six researchers to have been awarded a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research Professorship. Professor Matthew Ridd, from Bristol’s Centre for Academic Primary Care, will carry out research to treat eczema in children and identify and address children’s food allergies.

1 in 3000 patients experience cardiac arrest requiring resuscitation during anaesthesia, according to new national analysis

17 November 2023

A new study that examined all cardiac arrests occurring during or soon after surgery in more than 300 UK hospitals over a one-year period ‒ has identified that this extremely dangerous and often fatal event occurs in 3 per 10,000 surgeries requiring anaesthesia. The study is published in Anaesthesia.

Young people less likely to study at university if mother has maternal depression

16 November 2023

Young people whose mothers experienced periods of depression during their lifetime were less likely to study at university, new research led by the University of Bristol has found. The study is published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.

Professor Sir Eric Thomas FMedSci, former Vice-Chancellor & President of the University of Bristol

Professor Sir Eric Thomas, former Bristol Vice-Chancellor, passes away

14 November 2023

Professor Sir Eric Thomas FMedSci, former Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bristol, sadly passed away on Friday 10 November 2023 aged 70 following a short battle with cancer. He was Bristol's 12th Vice-Chancellor, and led the University for 14 years between 2001 and 2015 during a period of significant change in higher education.

World-first study to screen 20,000 UK adults for type 1 diabetes

14 November 2023

A world-first research programme led by the University of Bristol that will identify adults at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes opens for recruitment today. Launching on World Diabetes Day [Tuesday 14 November], the Type 1 Diabetes Risk in Adults (T1DRA) study aims to recruit 20,000 adults, aged between 18 and 70, from the general population to assess their risk.

Anonymous female therapist and client sitting in armchairs during session in modern office - stock image

Assisted dying ethical review published

7 November 2023

The Minister for Health and Social Services has published the Assisted Dying in Jersey Ethical Review report, which has contributions by three experts of medical law and ethics from the universities of Bristol, Manchester and Toronto.

Second survey to improve international burns care launched

6 November 2023

People are being asked to complete an online survey to help identify the top ten global burns research priorities and improve burns care around the world. The survey is part of an international partnership set up to give a louder voice to burns patients, carers and clinicians.

Being taller throughout life may protect against heart disease and stroke

3 November 2023

Being taller during the course of a person’s lifetime could protect against heart disease and stroke in later life, according to a new University of Bristol-led study. The research, which analysed height and genetic data on over 454,000 individuals, is published in the pre-print publication* medRxiv.

Type 2 diabetes remission diet impacts on metabolic health

26 October 2023

People with type 2 diabetes who took part in a diet-assisted weight loss trial, showed differences across a wide range of potential biomarkers of metabolic health one year later, according to the results of a new study.

Research Paper of the Year award for Bristol-led childhood eczema study

25 October 2023

University of Bristol-led research comparing the effectiveness and safety of different types of moisturiser for childhood eczema has won the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) Research Paper of the Year (RPY) Award 2022.

First-of-its kind hormone replacement treatment shows promise in patient trials

20 October 2023

A first-of-its kind hormone replacement therapy that more closely replicates the natural circadian and ultradian rhythms of our hormones has shown to improve symptoms in patients with adrenal conditions. Results from the University of Bristol-led clinical trial are published today [20 October] in the Journal of Internal Medicine.

Breakthrough in treatment for world’s leading cause of kidney failure in children

19 October 2023

A potential treatment for the world’s leading cause of kidney failure in children needing dialysis has been discovered by an international team of scientists. The University of Bristol-led breakthrough is published today [19 October] in Med.

Newborn illness linked to 71% of child deaths up to age 10, new study show

17 October 2023

As many as 71.6% of child deaths up to age 10 are linked to illness as a newborn, according to a new University of Bristol-led study published today in the journal JAMA Network Open.

Amitriptyline helps relieve IBS symptoms

16 October 2023

A cheap and widely available prescription drug can improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in patients seen in GP surgeries, new research presented today [16 October] at UEG Week 2023 has found.

Volunteers needed for study to look at whether shingles with COVID-19 or flu vaccines can be given at same time

12 October 2023

People aged 50 and over are invited to take part in a new University of Bristol research study looking at the co-administration of the shingles vaccine with the COVID-19 or flu vaccine.

Bristol unites international gambling harms experts and people suffering from gambling addiction to highlight urgent need for reform

11 October 2023

With the explosion of online platforms and advertising, the scourge of gambling is a growing problem affecting people of all ages.

Jet lag disorder associated with shift work can lead to brain changes increasing appetite

11 October 2023

Scientists have uncovered why night shift work is associated with changes in appetite in a new University of Bristol-led study. The findings, published in Communications Biology, could help the millions of people that work through the night and struggle with weight gain.

Few eligible patients get access to publicly funded weight management programmes in England

28 September 2023

Of the more than 1.8 million adults in England with a recorded diagnosis of being overweight or obesity, only three percent are referred to publicly funded weight management programmes, according to a new University of Bristol-led study published today [28 September] in PLOS Medicine.

Children of the 90s Principal Investigator, Professor Nic Timpson with Bristol Bears players James Williams and George Kloska

Bristol Bears partners with Children of the 90s researchers for new study

25 September 2023

An exciting new sports science study is underway at the Children of the 90s clinic at the University of Bristol. European Challenge Cup winners, the Bristol Bears, are pioneering new research looking at the association between body composition and injury in elite level male, female and academy rugby union players.

Reductions in sexual mixing ended mpox outbreak in England, while vaccination has prevented resurgences in 2023

11 September 2023

The rapid outbreak of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in 2022 likely resulted from high levels of sexual mixing among some gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), with the initial downturn in cases probably due to a reduction in sexual contacts among these men, according to new research led by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation. The HPRU is a partnership between the University of Bristol and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Obesity-related stigma linked to political views and welfare attitudes

7 September 2023

Views around obesity are closely tied up with political values and wider social attitudes, suggesting that tackling weight stigma may require tackling other forms of stigma, new research led by the University of Bristol has found.

Global research on HIV prevention to be transformed thanks to £5 million award

5 September 2023

Researchers from seven international institutions hope to transform traditional strategies used to tackle global HIV prevention for key populations particularly affected by the virus, thanks to a new £5 million Wellcome Discovery award to Professor Peter Vickerman at the University of Bristol.

First-of-its-kind ‘Carry Naloxone’ app launches to help save lives

31 August 2023

A new app to access naloxone, the life-saving medicine to prevent an opioid overdose, is launched in Somerset today on International Overdose Awareness Day [31 August]. The app, which is supported by University of Bristol research, is the first-of-its kind in England.

Generic image of a doctor with a patient [iStock]

Surgeons need to improve how they communicate with patients about innovative procedures

14 August 2023

Patients are not given sufficient information about the novel status of a procedure, possible uncertainties or potential risks when deciding to go ahead with the procedure, research led by the University of Bristol and published in the Annals of Surgery has found.

Gene therapy hope for children with kidney disease

10 August 2023

Researchers at the University of Bristol have made a remarkable step forward in finding a potential cure for a type of childhood kidney disease.

Academic Respiratory Unit receives prestigious clinical academic funding

10 August 2023

Three clinicians based in the Academic Respiratory Unit (ARU) have been successful in gaining prestigious and highly competitive clinical academic funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the Medical Research Council (MRC).

Massimo Caputo, BHF Professor of Congenital Heart Surgery at the Bristol Heart Institute

Bristol researcher shortlisted for BHF Heart Hero Award for work on children’s heart plaster

31 July 2023

A University of Bristol researcher who developed a new revolutionary type of ‘heart plaster’ that could improve the way surgeons treat children living with congenital heart disease has been shortlisted for the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) Research Story of the Year, part of the charity’s annual Heart Hero Awards.

Patients need better information on usefulness of blood tests finds new audit of UK primary care tests

21 July 2023

An audit of blood tests in UK GP practices has found that 6.2% of test results led to a new diagnosis or confirmation of a diagnosis, and abnormal or borderline results were common with only around a quarter (26.6%) of patients having results in the normal range.

Bristol professor wins prestigious RCGP award

20 July 2023

A University of Bristol Professor of Primary Health Care and an NIHR Senior Investigator has been awarded the George Abercrombie Award for his outstanding contributions to the literature of general practice.

Student doctor wins Chortle Student Comedy Award

19 July 2023

A student who fell in love with comedy when he was 12 years old has won the Chortle Student Comedy Award 2023.

‘Fastball’ test to detect Alzheimer’s earlier gets major £1.5 million funding boost

12 July 2023

A simple but revolutionary test to improve early detection for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease could soon be helping patients and their families, thanks to a significant £1.5 million funding boost awarded to the universities of Bath and Bristol.

Professor Massimo Caputo holding Finley on the day he left hospital

How the University of Bristol's research and teaching has helped shape the NHS and save lives

5 July 2023

Today [Wednesday 5 July] we celebrate 75 years of the NHS - the first universal health care system to be established anywhere in the world.

GPs have a key role to diagnose vulval lichen sclerosus

26 June 2023

Primary care professionals should think beyond thrush and genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM) when women present with vulval symptoms and consider the diagnosis of vulval lichen sclerosus (VLS), research led by the University of Bristol suggests.

Wearable monitor detects stress hormone levels across a full 24-hour day

21 June 2023

Early warning signs of diseases caused by dysfunctional levels of stress hormones could be spotted more easily thanks to a new wearable device developed by endocrine researchers. This is the first time it has been possible to measure changes to people’s stress hormones as they go about normal daily activities, across both day and night. The new collaborative research led by the University of Bristol, University of Birmingham and University of Bergen has the potential to revolutionise how diseases of the stress hormone system are diagnosed and treated.

One in ten NHS healthcare workers experienced suicidal thoughts during pandemic, study finds

21 June 2023

Approximately one in ten NHS healthcare workers experienced suicidal thoughts during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, finds a new University of Bristol-led study published in PLOS ONE today [21 June].

Alcohol dependency in adolescence, but not consumption, linked with later depression risk

1 June 2023

Adolescents who show signs of alcohol dependence are more likely to develop depression by their mid-20s, according to a new study led by University of Bristol and UCL researchers.

Record-breaking student weightlifter called up for Commonwealth Championships

31 May 2023

A medical student who recently broke two British weightlifting records has been picked to represent England at the Commonwealth Championships.

Majority of consumers care what kind of data they share with retailers and service providers, finds new study

31 May 2023

Consumers value their personal data including the one collected by retail stores, service providers and loyalty schemes. The University of Bristol-led research, published in PLOS ONE, found 96% of people would protect their personal data from being shared by retailers and online services for commercial gain if they had a choice.

‘It’s an incredible feeling!’ - Bristol into its first University Challenge semi-final tonight

22 May 2023

The University of Bristol is into the semi-finals of University Challenge for the first time.

Image of two women taking part in an Art of Ageing competition in Harare, Zimbabwe. Credit Ardent Creative

£2 million awarded for healthy ageing in sub-Saharan Africa

22 May 2023

New research hopes to improve the health and wellbeing of older people living in sub-Saharan Africa, thanks to a £2 million National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Global Research Professorship award.

Professor Athimalaipet Ramanan elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences

19 May 2023

Athimalaipet V Ramanan, FRCPCH, FRCP, Professor of Paediatric Rheumatology at Bristol Medical School, is among the latest group of influential biomedical and health scientists from UK institutions to be elected to the Academy.

Major study of food allergy in children with eczema launched

12 May 2023

Parents of young children with eczema are being asked to consider taking part in a major new food allergy study run by researchers at the Universities of Bristol, Manchester, and Southampton.

Socio-economic inequalities in access to joint replacement surgery in England

27 April 2023

The provision of joint replacement surgery in England is subject to socio-economic inequalities, despite a years-long effort to reduce them. A University of Bristol-led study of hip and knee surgeries over a ten-year period, published in PLOS Medicine today [27 April], concludes that care providers must take further action to address variation in access to these frequently performed operations.

Association between early childhood symptoms of common ear, nose and throat problems and autism

24 April 2023

ENT (ear, nose and throat) problems relating to the ears, hearing and upper respiratory system, were found to be more common in young children with a subsequent diagnosis of autism or who demonstrated high levels of autism traits, finds a new study from researchers at the University of Bristol and Aston University published today [24 April] in BMJ Open.

Generic illustration of a woman holding her head to illustrate memory problems and brain fog.

Long-term use of steroids could impair memory, study finds

13 April 2023

Memory impairment associated with steroid use has been identified in a new study. The University of Bristol-led findings, published in PNAS, show great potential for the identification of drugs that could be adapted to treat certain memory disorders.

Researchers find new pathway to prevent kidney failure for thousands

13 April 2023

Researchers at the University of Bristol have made a breakthrough that could prevent certain kidney patients progressing towards renal failure.

New festival about love and loss starts in May 2023

23 March 2023

A new festival that aims to open up conversations around death and bereavement will take place in May. Good Grief Weston will offer 30 workshops and events over eight days (Monday 1 to Monday 8 May) across more than 20 venues.

Providing free school meals to all secondary pupils is feasible and acceptable, finds study

22 March 2023

Providing free school meals to all secondary pupils is feasible and acceptable, and brings many potential benefits, finds a new University of Bristol-led study of a pilot scheme in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, published today [22 March].

Promoting safer sleeping for babies in England: new report

13 March 2023

Change is needed to the way safer sleep information is communicated, if risks to babies from unsafe sleeping practices are to be reduced, according to a new report from the universities of Oxford, UCL, Bristol and Newcastle. This was prompted by the government, in the wake of sudden death in infancy data, in an attempt to identify what type of support was needed to reduce the incidence in all families.

Delaying treatment for localised prostate cancer does not increase mortality risk, trial shows

12 March 2023

Active monitoring of prostate cancer has the same high survival rates after 15 years as radiotherapy or surgery, reports the largest study of its kind today. The latest findings from the ProtecT trial, led by the Universities of Bristol and Oxford, are presented today [12 March] at the European Association of Urology (EAU) Congress in Milan and published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

illustration depicting black plague victims

Genetic variation that protected against Black Death still helps protect against infection but increases autoimmune disease

7 March 2023

The same genetics that helped some of our ancestors fight the plague is still likely to be at work in our bodies today, potentially providing some of the population with extra protection against respiratory diseases such as COVID-19, according to research led by scientists at University of Bristol. However, there is a trade-off, where this same variation is also linked to increased autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

New guidance on hip fracture services will improve recovery for thousands of patients

6 March 2023

A new 'toolkit' for senior doctors and hospital managers, that will help make changes to their organisational arrangements and improve the quality of hip fracture care across the UK has been launched by The Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS) in collaboration with researchers from the University of Bristol.

Image of Bristol harbourside development.

New tool to value health of urban developments

3 March 2023

A new tool to value the health effects of urban development proposals has been revealed by researchers at the Universities of Bristol and Bath and published in Frontiers in Public Health.

Olympic-level student fundraiser receives MBE at Windsor Castle

28 February 2023

A student who raised £185,000 doing all 102 Olympic sports over the 17 days of the Tokyo Games today received her MBE from Princess Anne.

Handle bars or a bicycle with a helmit hanging off

Physical activity can help mental health in pre-teen years

28 February 2023

Regular physical activity can improve adolescents’ mental health and help with behavioural difficulties, research suggests.

Generic illustration showing the optic nerve in the eye.

New study to improve referrals for patients with nerve swelling at the back of the eye

17 February 2023

Guidelines to speed up the diagnosis and treatment of patients with nerve swelling at the back of the eye, known as papilloedema, are being developed by researchers at the University of Bristol.

Bristol study finds third COVID-19 "booster" is associated with a substantial increase in antibodies

24 January 2023

A national study involving Bristol’s Children of the 90s has found the "booster" vaccine led to a substantial increase in the antibodies that help protect against coronavirus. High levels of antibodies is associated with lower risk of severe infection.

Anti-aging gene shown to rewind heart age by 10 years

23 January 2023

An anti-aging gene discovered in a population of centenarians has been shown to rewind the heart's biological age by 10 years. The breakthrough, published in Cardiovascular Research and led by scientists at the University of Bristol and the MultiMedica Group in Italy, offers a potential target for patients with heart failure.

Rapid research projects announced to help ease NHS winter pressures

22 January 2023

Patients could benefit from a programme of 16 rapid research projects announced today [22 January] that will examine how to ease winter pressures faced by the NHS – compounded this year by COVID-19 and a record flu season, and the cost-of-living crisis.

Child deaths over last year have peaked to pre-pandemic levels, finds new study

9 January 2023

Child deaths in England increased during 2021 to 2022 and have returned close to pre-pandemic levels, according to a new study, led by researchers from the University of Bristol’s National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) team and published in JAMA Network Open today [9 January].

Mesenchymal cell plasters to stop children needing repeated heart surgeries

20 December 2022

Researchers at the University of Bristol, funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), have developed 'mesenchymal cell plasters' to revolutionise the way surgeons treat children living with congenital heart disease, so they don't need as many open-heart operations.

New app to help improve maternity care secures £1.8 million funding for NHS trial

15 December 2022

A new tool which is able to identify early in pregnancy a woman’s chance of preterm birth or of developing problems with the placenta that may lead to stillbirth will be tested across 26 NHS Trusts for 36 months. The University of Bristol-led trial, will test the Tommy's App, a Clinical Decision Support Tool and will involve around 39,000 women each year.

Professor John Colley MD FRCP, 1930-2022

8 December 2022

Professor John Richard Thomas Colley died on 17 October aged 92. He was Professor of Public Health Medicine from 1976 until retirement in 1993, when he was appointed Emeritus Professor. His former colleague, Professor Michael Wadsworth (now Emeritus at University College London), offers an appreciation.

Medicine graduate's debut album is homage to patients she helped

7 December 2022

The debut album of Dr Holly Dejsupa tells the powerful stories of patients she met along her journey as a young doctor.

Significant gaps and inequalities in the provision of specialist child weight management services in England, study finds

30 November 2022

Over three quarters of acute NHS trusts in England (77%) do not have a child weight management service, despite being responsible for providing specialist services for the most severely obese, according to a study led by researchers at the University of Bristol and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

University football team on top form as they tussle for league title

23 November 2022

It’s neck and neck in the title race as the University of Bristol Women’s Football Club (UBWFC) 1st XI go into a crunch match.

Influential Bristol academics recognised on Highly Cited Researchers 2022 list

15 November 2022

Eighteen University of Bristol academics have been named on Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers 2022 list.

Infectious disease modellers recognised for pandemic modelling work

10 November 2022

University of Bristol academics, Drs Ellen Brooks Pollock OBE, Leon Danon, Robert Challen, Amy Thomas and Emily Nixon have been recognised for their epidemiological modelling work supporting the UK government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Association between poor sleep quality and an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's, new study finds

3 November 2022

New research has shown an association between sleep quality – less than seven hours - and Alzheimer's disease-related pathology in people without cognitive impairment. The study by an international team led by the Pasqual Maragall Foundation research centre, the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Centre (BBRC), together with researchers from the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust, is published in the scientific journal Brain Communications today [3 November].

The unintended consequences of giving patients online access to their health record

1 November 2022

Giving patients online access to their GP health records has unintended consequences that can limit its usefulness, a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) ARC West and University of Bristol Centre for Academic Primary Care (CAPC) study published in the British Journal of General Practice (BJGP) has shown.

Concern over unregulated high street health checks that may be putting extra pressure on the NHS

27 October 2022

An investigation by the British Medical Journal (BMJ), highlights companies are offering private blood tests for a range of conditions and deficiencies, with some making misleading claims, not backed by evidence, and leaving an already overworked NHS to follow up “abnormal results". In a linked opinion article, experts from the Universities of Bristol and St Andrews highlight several areas of concern and argue that private blood testing companies need clear regulation to prevent more poor quality, over-hyped testing with harms to individuals and unnecessary costs for the NHS.

Dr Amber Young, 1963-2022

20 October 2022

Dr Amber Young, Honorary Professor of Burns Care at the University of Bristol, died peacefully at home on 17 September 2022 after suffering for a long time with breast cancer. Professor Jane Blazeby and colleagues in Bristol offer a remembrance.

NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre funded for another five years

14 October 2022

The National Institute for Health and Care Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre (NIHR Bristol BRC) has been awarded nearly £12 million of new funding for the next five years. The funding has been awarded to University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust by the NIHR, with the University of Bristol a major partner.

Findings from one of the largest consultations on UK bereavement support published

6 October 2022

New findings from one of the largest ever consultations on bereavement support in the UK have been published today by the UK Commission on Bereavement (UKCB).  The research, which involved University of Bristol academics, shows around 750,000 excess bereavements occurred during the pandemic in the UK.

Continuity of care associated with improved prescribing for patients at risk of heart disease

4 October 2022

People at risk of heart disease are more likely to be prescribed relevant medications if they see the same GP over time (known as continuity of care) but not more likely to take their medications (known as adherence), according to researchers at the University of Bristol.

Blood thinning drugs before removing a clot in stroke patients improves death rates at 90 days, study finds

3 October 2022

A new systematic review and meta-analysis by an international group of researchers has found giving a blood thinning drug (thrombolysis) before treatment to remove a clot from the brain - known as thrombectomy procedure - to stroke patients, improved mortality rates at 90 days, compared with just thrombectomy procedure alone.

Adverse health outcomes associated with long-term antidepressant use

29 September 2022

Long-term antidepressant use may double the risk of heart disease, finds the most comprehensive epidemiological study to date to investigate the health consequences from using the medication over ten years. The University of Bristol-led study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry Open, analysed data on over 200,000 people.

No difference between spinal versus general anaesthesia in patients having hip fracture surgery, finds study

28 September 2022

There are no differences in the safety or effectiveness of the two most common types of anaesthetic (spinal versus general anaesthesia) in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, according to the findings of a new study led by the University of Bristol in collaboration with University of Warwick researchers. The findings, published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia, analysed previously published data on nearly 4,000 hip fracture patients.

Study to assess impact of national scheme to reduce head trauma injuries in babies

22 September 2022

A national programme introduced to reduce rates of abusive head trauma in babies will be assessed as part of a new research study led by (UWE Bristol) in collaboration with the University of Bristol and the National Institute for Health and Care Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West).

Risk of blood clots remains for almost a year after COVID-19 infection, study suggests

20 September 2022

COVID-19 infection increases the risk of potentially life-threatening blood clots for at least 49 weeks, according to a new study of health records of 48 million unvaccinated adults from the first wave of the pandemic.

Bristol signs new twinning partnership with the National Aerospace University in Ukraine

8 September 2022

The University of Bristol has signed a new partnership with the National Aerospace University (Kharkiv Aviation Institute) in Ukraine as part of a UK government-backed ‘twinning’ scheme to support higher education institutions affected by the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Boosting physical activity/curbing sitting time highly likely to lower breast cancer risk

6 September 2022

Boosting physical activity levels and curbing sitting time are highly likely to lower breast cancer risk, finds research designed to strengthen proof of causation. The study led by Cancer Council Victoria in Australia, and including the Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, is published online today [6 September] in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

Study calls for change in guidance about eating fish during pregnancy

6 September 2022

A woman’s mercury level during pregnancy is unlikely to have an adverse effect on the development of the child provided that the mother eats fish, according to a new University of Bristol-led study.

Bristol academics conferred as Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences

1 September 2022

Two University of Bristol academics have been conferred as Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences.

Brain activity during sleep differs in young people with genetic risk of psychiatric disorders

31 August 2022

Young people living with a genetic alteration that increases the risk of psychiatric disorders have markedly different brain activity during sleep, a study led by researchers from the Universities of Bristol and Cardiff published in the journal eLife shows.

Recovery from a hip fracture varies widely among NHS hospitals, study finds

31 August 2022

How well patients recover after a hip fracture varies enormously between NHS hospitals in England and Wales and in some hospitals one in ten patients died within a month of their fracture, a new study has found.

Increase in non-COVID-19 respiratory infections predicted this winter

9 August 2022

An increase in the number of non-COVID-19 respiratory infections should be expected this winter, say scientists. The warning comes following the results of a new study, published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, which found that over 55% of respiratory disease hospitalisations during the pandemic’s peak were caused by non-SARS-CoV-2 infections.

How can we end male violence? Bristol conference invites contributions from professionals working with boys and young men

4 August 2022

Researchers from the University of Bristol, in partnership with Bristol Young Men’s Network, are inviting professionals working with boys and young men to contribute to a conference around masculinity, violence and mental health.

Landmark study shows consistent approaches to surgical innovation are urgently needed

3 August 2022

A consistent approach to NHS policies on surgical innovation is urgently needed, a landmark study by University of Bristol researchers has shown.

Image of patient derived podocyte kidney cells repaired with novel baculovirus-vectored approach pioneered by the Berger team. Podocin (coloured in green) is restored to the cell surface as in healthy podocytes.

New DNA repair-kit successfully fixes hereditary disease in patient-derived cells

29 July 2022

Genetic mutations which cause a debilitating hereditary kidney disease affecting children and young adults have been fixed in patient-derived kidney cells using a potentially game-changing DNA repair-kit. The advance, developed by University of Bristol scientists, is published in Nucleic Acids Research.

Famine and disease drove the evolution of lactose tolerance in Europe

27 July 2022

Prehistoric people in Europe were consuming milk thousands of years before humans evolved the genetic trait allowing us to digest the milk sugar lactose as adults, finds a new study. The research, published in Nature, mapped pre-historic patterns of milk use over the last 9,000 years, offering new insights into milk consumption and the evolution of lactose tolerance.

Study finds no evidence of genetic legacy in children of UK's nuclear test veterans

22 July 2022

Military men who had been present when British nuclear weapons were tested in the 1950s and 60s are no more likely to pass on to their descendants more changes to their DNA in comparison to other veterans, a new study involving University of Bristol researchers, has found.

A health care worker preparing a COVID-19 vaccine dose

Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca vaccines offer high protection against severe COVID-19, six months after second doses, study finds

20 July 2022

Protection against severe COVID-19 by two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines remained high up to six months after second doses, finds new research which analysed NHS health record data on over seven million adults. Reassuringly, the University of Bristol-led study published in The BMJ today [July 20], found protection in older adults aged over 65 years, and in clinically vulnerable adults.

Scientists discover genes that affect the risk of developing pre-leukaemia

14 July 2022

The discovery of 14 inherited genetic changes which significantly increase the risk of a person developing a symptomless blood disorder associated with the onset of some types of cancer and heart disease is published today [July 14] in Nature Genetics. The finding, made in one of the largest studies of its kind through genetic data analysis on 421,738 people, could pave the way for potential new approaches for the prevention and early detection of cancers including leukaemia.

New report finds stark impact of newborn illness on mortality throughout childhood

14 July 2022

New evidence has found a link between poor health as a newborn and mortality up to the age of ten. The new report from England’s National Child Mortality Database (NCMD), led by the University of Bristol, shows of the 4,829 children aged ten and under who died in England between 2019 and 2021, 72 per cent were found to have required additional care in the neonatal period.

“Hope saved my life”: How the Hope project helped men at risk of suicide

14 July 2022

A project to help men aged 30-64 who are at risk of suicide has saved lives and reduced depression and suicidal thoughts, a study by National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded researchers at the University of Bristol has shown. Hope, run by mental health charity Second Step, aims to help men in mental health crisis because of debt, financial, employment or welfare difficulties.

First in human study to assess knee cartilage repair implant launches at Southmead Hospital

13 July 2022

A new first in human study to assess the safety and performance of FibroFix Cartilage P™ (FibroFix™), an innovative implant that repairs knee cartilage, is starting at Southmead Hospital, Bristol. The FFLEX clinical trial has been awarded nearly £1.2million by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and will be led by Orthox, the company behind FibroFix™, and researchers from the University of Bristol.

A group of older men jogging along a path

People from low socioeconomic backgrounds could reduce chronic kidney disease risk with regular exercise, study suggests

12 July 2022

New research has found people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who regularly exercise could substantially reduce their risk of chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is linked to poor quality of life and an increased risk of death. Its treatment is also associated with high healthcare costs, with diabetes and high blood pressure major factors that contribute to the disease.

Poor communication of test results poses risk for patients

12 July 2022

A lack of clear systems for communicating test results in primary care can lead to confusion, frustration and anxiety for patients and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment, according to research published in the British Journal of General Practice today [July 12].

New review of evidence highlights importance of adequate ventilation to prevent spread of COVID-19 in indoor settings

29 June 2022

Some public venues may need better ventilation to prevent the spread of COVID-19 following growing evidence of the potential for 'long distance' airborne transmission of the disease, suggests research published by The BMJ today [29 June].

Knee replacement surgery decreased after NHS policies on a patient’s weight were introduced, worsening health inequalities, study finds

29 June 2022

New research has found that weight/body mass index (BMI) policies introduced by NHS commissioning groups in England are associated with a decrease in knee replacement surgery and may be contributing to health inequalities. With one in ten people likely to need a knee replacement, many thousands of patients are directly affected by these policies.

Bristol’s Children of the 90s study helps scientists pinpoint those most at risk of Long COVID

28 June 2022

Bristol-based study Children of the 90s has helped improve understanding of the causes and treatment of long COVID.

Study hopes to understand the impact of exposure to COVID-19 infection early in life on a child’s brain development

27 June 2022

More than 650,000 babies are born every year [i] in the UK, and during the pandemic some of them will have been exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus which causes COVID-19. A national study, funded by the charity Action Medical Research, will investigate the long-term impact of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 in the womb or shortly after birth.

“Brain bleeds” in babies first year can lead to long-term sight problems, study finds

23 June 2022

Severe “brain bleeds” experienced by some babies in the first year following their birth lead to long-term sight problems, researchers at the University of Bristol have found as part of a ten-year follow-up study.

England-wide study first to show link between intimate partner violence, self-harm and suicidality

23 June 2022

A new study is the first to show that intimate partner violence (IPV) is strongly associated with self-harm and suicidality in both men and women, and across all ages in England.

Inability to stand on one leg in mid to later life linked to higher risk of death

21 June 2022

Balance test could be included in routine health checks for older adults, say an international team of researchers, led by the Clinimex exercise medicine clinic in Rio de Janeiro and including the Bristol Medical School.

Child cancer survivor achieves dream of becoming doctor

13 June 2022

A student who beat aggressive cancer as a young child has today become a doctor.

Child sex abuse victims reveal barriers faced in new ‘Keeping Secrets’ report

9 June 2022

Child sex abuse victims whose cases are going through the criminal justice process, are going through the trial alone or faced with on average a two and a half year wait to access pre-trial therapy, according to one of the findings from a new Home Office-funded report led by University of Bristol researchers.

Student awarded MBE for epic Olympic challenge

1 June 2022

A student who completed all 102 Olympic sports during the Tokyo games has been awarded an MBE.

Bristol Network one of six new NHS brain tumour centres awarded Tessa Jowell Centre of Excellence status

27 May 2022

The Bristol Network, which includes North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, has been recognised as a “Tessa Jowell Centre of Excellence” following rigorous expert-led assessments by the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission (TJBCM).

Hospital database of serious injuries can be used to identify domestic violence and abuse, finds study

26 May 2022

Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) could be identified in the future using an already established national database of serious injuries, according to new University of Bristol-led research. The pilot study, published in Injury Prevention [26 May], developed a method to identify DVA victim-survivors from hospital records.

Patients wanted for study aiming to identify factors affecting IVF treatment success

18 May 2022

A University of Bristol-led study into the factors affecting IVF treatment success is looking to recruit 1,500 women and their partners to help researchers identify factors that play a part in whether IVF treatment is successful or not.

New Festival to support survivors of childhood sexual abuse

16 May 2022

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) affects half a million children and young people every year. In Bristol alone, it is estimated that 13,000 children and young people are currently living with experiences of sexual abuse. In the first event of its kind, University of Bristol researchers and The Green House, Bristol’s only specialist provider of therapeutic support, are collaborating to stage a Festival to support survivors. The Beyond Therapy Festival of Activism Against Child Sexual Abuse will be held on Thursday 19 May at the Watershed.

Inhaled antibiotics could help reduce antimicrobial resistance

12 May 2022

Using inhaled antibiotics to treat lower respiratory tract infections could help reduce antimicrobial resistance, according to researchers from the Universities of Bristol and Bath.

International siblings study sheds new light on the nature of the genetics of disease

9 May 2022

Genetic studies aim to find regions of the genome that associate with diseases or other outcomes. A new study has shown that for social traits these genetic effects are due to a mixture of direct effects (e.g. biological effects of DNA), and indirect effects (e.g. family or social environment). Whereas biological traits are mainly driven by direct effects.

Just three per cent of adults with a recording of overweight or obesity in primary care in England are referred to weight management programmes

7 May 2022

New University of Bristol-led research presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Maastricht, the Netherlands (4-7 May), has found that just three per cent of adults with a recording of overweight or obesity in England are referred to weight management programmes by their GP.

Children could find it easier to reach a healthier weight if their parents are addressing their own weight

7 May 2022

New research presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Maastricht, the Netherlands (4-7 May), has found that many parents attending commercial weight management programmes would be happy for their child, if overweight, to also receive support to reach a healthier weight.

Childhood obesity increases risk of type 1 diabetes

28 April 2022

Being overweight in childhood increases the risk of developing type 1 diabetes in later life, according to the findings of a new study that analysed genetic data on over 400,000 individuals. The study, co-led by researchers from the Universities of Bristol and Oxford and published today in Nature Communications, also provides evidence that being overweight over many years from childhood influences the risk of other diseases including asthma, eczema and hypothyroidism.

€8 million ERC grants awarded for diverse range of research projects

26 April 2022

Three researchers from the University of Bristol have been awarded European Research Council (ERC) Advanced Grants totalling around €8 million. This places the University third in the UK in terms of the number of Advanced Grants awarded from the 2021 call.

Excess weight almost doubles risk of womb cancer

19 April 2022

New research shows that lifelong excess weight almost doubles a woman’s risk of developing womb cancer*, according to a Cancer Research UK-funded study led by the University of Bristol and published today [19 April] in BMC Medicine**.

Research aims to reduce strokes caused by tiny air bubbles entering blood stream during heart surgery

14 April 2022

Researchers from the University of Bristol are investigating how to reduce strokes and other brain problems following heart surgery, which can be caused by tiny air bubbles left in the bloodstream after opening the heart. These tiny air bubbles stop blood getting to part of the brain.

Afghanistan charity champion receives honorary degree alongside graduating daughter

13 April 2022

A doctor who transformed the lives of thousands of Afghans has received an honorary degree from the University of Bristol, in the same ceremony in which her daughter graduated.

Insomnia could increase people’s risk of type 2 diabetes, study finds

7 April 2022

People who have difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep had higher blood sugar levels than people who rarely had sleep issues, new research has found. The University of Bristol-led findings suggest insomnia could increase people’s risk of type 2 diabetes, and that lifestyle or pharmacological treatments that improve insomnia could help to prevent or treat the condition.

Identification of 75 genetic risk factors brings new insights for Alzheimer’s

4 April 2022

Identifying genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease is essential if we are to improve our understanding and treatment of it. An international research team, which included University of Bristol scientists, has identified 75 regions of the genome that are associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Accelerated biological aging may cause bowel cancer

29 March 2022

Scientists have shown how accelerated biological aging measured by an epigenetic clock may increase the risk of bowel cancer, according to a report published today in eLife.

Professor Stafford Lightman awarded prestigious Jacobæus Prize

29 March 2022

One of the world’s most prestigious medical research awards, the Jacobæus Prize has been awarded to Stafford Lightman, Professor of Medicine at the University of Bristol, for his advances to our understanding of a key hormonal system to tackle stress.

New TV series co-designed by Bristol mental health expert aims to find out if living a simpler life means a happier and healthier life

28 March 2022

Could living a simpler life with no modern comforts, cut off from the modern world be better for us? Bristol mental health researcher, Dr Myles-Jay Linton has contributed to a new Channel 4 series, The Simpler Life, which follows a group of 24 Brits who have given up all their worldly possessions to see whether living a simpler life off grid, without any form of technology, mains electricity or gas, benefits their health and wellbeing.

Preventing long-term pain from shingles

28 March 2022

Researchers from the University of Bristol are recruiting patients with newly diagnosed shingles into a new study, to see if they can prevent the long-term pain which commonly persists after the rash has healed.

Aspirin may improve 3-month survival for patients critically ill with COVID-19

22 March 2022

Antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin have little effect on the need for life support in COVID-19, but they may improve survival in the following months according to a new international study led in the UK by researchers at the University of Bristol and Imperial College London.

Prescribing for anxiety has increased in those aged under 35

22 March 2022

Researchers from the University of Bristol have found that there have been increases in incident prescribing of most anti-anxiety medications (called anxiolytics) in recent years, which have been substantial in young adults (aged under 25).

Discovery of novel brain fear mechanisms offers target for anxiety-reducing drugs

15 March 2022

A new target in the brain which underpins the eliciting of anxiety and fear behaviours such as ‘freezing’ has been identified by neuroscientists. The University of Bristol researchers say the discovery of a key pathway in the brain, published in the journal eLife, offers a potential new drug target for treating anxiety and psychological disorders, which affect an estimated 264-million people worldwide.

Simple clinical tool can help diagnose spinal fractures in people with osteoporosis

14 March 2022

Only one in three patients are diagnosed with broken bones in the back due to osteoporosis. One reason is that medical staff find it difficult to know who should have a back X-ray. To help address this important diagnostic care gap, academics at the University of Bristol have developed an online clinical checklist called Vfrac, to assist medical staff spot vertebral fractures that might otherwise have been missed.

Survey to improve international burns care launches today

14 March 2022

An international partnership set up to give a louder voice to burns patients, carers and clinicians have set out to identify the top ten global burns research priorities.

Bristol Med School goes green with new sustainability roles

9 March 2022

Bristol Medical School has added three new sustainability roles to its staff roster, as it helps realise the University’s plans to become net-zero carbon by 2030.

Bristol to collaborate with Evotec to help treatment of kidney diseases

1 March 2022

A new collaboration to help patients with nephrotic syndrome, a type of kidney disease, has been announced today [2 March] by the University of Bristol and Evotec SE.

Researcher awarded ‘Unsung COVID Heroes’ award for outbreak control work across schools

28 February 2022

Dr Amy Thomas, a Research Associate at Bristol Medical School, has been awarded an ‘Unsung COVID Heroes’ award from WISE, an organisation that promotes women in science, maths and engineering (STEM), for her work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Diabetes breakthrough: gel-like sieve in blood vessels a new target for repairing damaged hearts

25 February 2022

Drugs that repair damage to a gel-like layer in the tiny blood vessels of the heart could present a much-needed treatment for heart failure in people with diabetes, according to University of Bristol-led research funded by the British Heart Foundation and published today in Diabetologia.

New study of 46-million adults in England confirms blood clot risk with COVID-19 vaccine is very small

22 February 2022

The risk of blood clots after COVID-19 vaccinations is very low finds a new study of 46-million adults in England. The research, which involved University of Bristol academics, showed that people vaccinated with Oxford-AstraZeneca or Pfizer-BioNTech had a lower risk of all venous clots (such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) and all arterial clots (such as strokes and heart attacks), particularly in people over 70 years.

Transport for London’s junk food advertising restrictions linked to reductions in high fat, salt and sugar product purchases

17 February 2022

Restricting the outdoor advertising of high fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) foods and drinks across the Transport for London (TfL) network is estimated to have significantly decreased the average amount of calories purchased by households every week from these products, according to new research in PLOS Medicine.

Bereaved people who are socially isolated have higher levels of grief and support needs, finds national survey

11 February 2022

People in the UK bereaved during the first nine months of the COVID-19 pandemic showed higher levels of grief and support needs if they were socially isolated or lonely.

Scientists breaking barriers to treating heart failure

11 February 2022

New technology that could radically improve the outlook for patients with serious heart conditions has been developed by scientists at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute (ABI) and the Universities of Bristol and Bath together with Ceryx Medical Limited.

Widely-used hormone drug associated with increased risk of benign brain tumour at high doses

4 February 2022

High doses of a widely-used drug used in the hormonal treatment of conditions such as excessive hair growth, early puberty, prostate cancer are linked to an increased risk of meningioma — the most common type of benign brain tumour, finds a University of Bristol-led study of over 8 million patients. The study is published in Scientific Reports today [4 February].

SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein binds to heart’s vascular cells potentially contributing to severe microvascular damage

3 February 2022

A new study has shown how SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to severe microvascular damage seen in severely-ill COVID-19 patients by transforming human heart vascular cells into inflammatory cells, without infecting them. The University of Bristol-led research, published in Clinical Science, indicates blocking antibodies could represent a new treatment to alleviate cardiovascular complications.

International research collaboration to investigate eliminating hepatitis C in Ethiopia

26 January 2022

An international research team will lead elimination efforts of Hepatitis C in Ethiopia - one of the worst affected African countries of the disease - thanks to funding of £2.2 million by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).

Mixed Reality and AI to aid surgeons with keyhole heart valve surgery

24 January 2022

Cardiac surgeons could in the future be conducting procedures virtually before even stepping into an operating theatre thanks to researchers from the University of West of England who are working with cardiac surgeons from the University of Bristol on new technology that will allow surgeons to better predict risks and help prevent the conversion of a keyhole heart valve operation to open heart surgery.

TV watching linked with potentially fatal blood clots

20 January 2022

Take breaks when binge-watching TV to avoid blood clots, say scientists. The warning comes as a study reports that watching TV for four hours a day or more is associated with a 35 per cent higher risk of blood clots compared with less than 2.5 hours. The University of Bristol research is published today [20 January] in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, a journal of the ESC.

Professor David Easty, 1933-2022

20 January 2022

David Easty, retired Professor of Ophthalmology, died last week. John Armitage, Professor Emeritus at Bristol Medical School, offers this remembrance.

Being overweight may cause more UK hospital admissions than previously thought, finds new study

14 January 2022

Being overweight may cause more hospital admissions and higher incidences of disease and mortality than previous studies report, according to new University of Bristol-led research. The study, published in Economics and Human Biology, used a genetic technique to identify the sole impact of body composition on hospital admissions from over 300,000 people.

OBE for Bristol grad dedicating her life to helping world’s poorest children

7 January 2022

A doctor who has changed the lives of thousands of the world’s poorest children has been honoured with an OBE.

Treatment for opioid dependence has an important role in suicide prevention

16 December 2021

Opioid agonist treatment, commonly methadone or buprenorphine, for people dependent on heroin or other opioid drugs has an important role to play in suicide prevention, according to University of Bristol-led research published in The Lancet Psychiatry.

Exhibition depicts first year medics’ trials and triumphs during pandemic

15 December 2021

Stunning art that captures the experience of studying first year medicine during a pandemic features in a moving online exhibition.

Are rocket scientists and brain surgeons really smarter than everyone else?

14 December 2021

Rocket scientists and brain surgeons are no smarter than the general population, suggests a study published in the Christmas issue of The BMJ.

Online consultations can disadvantage some patients and create more work for GP practices

14 December 2021

Online GP consultations have unintended consequences that may put some patients at a disadvantage and create additional work for GP practice staff, a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)-funded study at the University of Bristol has shown. The DECODE study, published in the British Journal of General Practice, examined the use of online consultations in primary care to improve how they will be used in the future.

Guidelines may promote over-diagnosis of cow’s milk allergy in infants

8 December 2021

International guidelines developed to help doctors diagnose cow’s milk allergy may lead to over-diagnosis, according to University of Bristol-led research published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy today [8 December]. The study found that three-quarters of infants have two or more symptoms at some point in the first year of life, which guidelines say may be caused by cow’s milk allergy, yet the condition only affects one in 100.

COVID-19 studies should record women’s menstrual changes, recommend researchers

2 December 2021

Large scale COVID-19 studies and clinical trials should collect data on menstrual changes, according to new research which evaluated current evidence. The findings, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology and led by University of Bristol researchers, say there is an important public health imperative for accurate scientific investigation of menstrual changes in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Study aims to understand why COVID-19 vaccines can lead to very rare blood clotting with low platelets

30 November 2021

A group of 11 institutions, led by the University of Liverpool and including the University of Bristol, is seeking to understand the very rare, but very serious, condition of blood clotting with low platelets in the general population, in COVID-19 infection, and potentially following vaccination.

The 24 year old fixing the ‘toxic’ student rental market

26 November 2021

A former Bristol student bent on fixing the 'toxic' student rental market now employs 10 people and is closing in on £500,000 of funding.

Blood pressure drugs could protect against type 2 diabetes

11 November 2021

BHF-funded researchers suggest lowering blood pressure should be added as a strategy for diabetes prevention.

Parent-collected nose swabs are as good as nurse-collected nose swabs at detecting respiratory infections in children

10 November 2021

Nose swab samples collected by parents are as good as those collected by nurses at detecting respiratory infections in children, according to a study by researchers at the University of Bristol published in the journal Microbiology Spectrum today (10 November).

Baby teeth may one day help identify kids at risk for mental disorders later in life

10 November 2021

Like the rings of a tree, teeth contain growth lines that may reveal clues about childhood experiences. The thickness of growth marks in primary (or “baby”) teeth may help identify children at risk for depression and other mental health disorders later in life, according to a ground-breaking investigation led by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) using data from a world-renowned health study in Bristol and published in JAMA Network Open.

Bristol student takes fifth in debut triathlon world champs

8 November 2021

A Bristol student has claimed fifth place in his debut World Triathlon Para Championships.

Non-invasive breathing support for COVID-19 patients isn’t linked to heightened infection risk

4 November 2021

The use of non-invasive breathing support, commonly known as CPAP or HFNO, to treat moderate to severe COVID-19 infection, isn’t linked to a heightened infection risk, as currently thought, suggest two new studies which included work led by University of Bristol researchers. The findings and a linked editorial are published today [4 November] in Thorax .

Lung capacity tests found to be accurate precursor of co-morbidities

2 November 2021

One of the largest studies to investigate whether Preserved Ratio Impaired Spirometry (PRISm), an understudied low lung function state, is an early predictor of co-morbidities has found it is strongly associated with an increased risk of death. The analysis, led by University of Bristol researchers and published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, evaluated results of lung spirometry tests in over 350,000 UK adults and followed them up over 12 years.

GW4 celebrates successful £7m Wellcome Trust bid for PhD programme for health professionals

28 October 2021

The GW4 Alliance is set to launch a new PhD programme for health professionals after receiving a £7m grant from the Wellcome Trust.

New research identifies who should be offered testing for coeliac disease

25 October 2021

Targeted testing of individuals with a range of signs and symptoms could improve diagnosis of coeliac disease, a new National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded study led by the University of Bristol and published in PLOS ONE has found. Signs and symptoms include family history of coeliac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, anaemia, type 1 diabetes, osteoporosis and chronic liver disease.

Eliminating hepatitis C in Pakistan could yield a return-on-investment of US$9.10 billion

22 October 2021

Pakistan has one of the highest rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the world, accounting for over ten per cent of global HCV infections. A new modelling study led by the University of Bristol, UK, suggests that achieving the World Health Organization goal of eliminating HCV as a public health problem by 2030 in Pakistan is likely to be highly cost-effective by 2030, cost-saving by 2031, and could deliver US$9.10 billion in savings to the Pakistan national economy by 2050.

Can portable air filters prevent respiratory infections and COVID-19 in care homes?

21 October 2021

A major new randomised controlled trial will investigate the effectiveness of air filtration systems in preventing respiratory infections (such as coughs, colds and flu) and COVID-19 among care home residents in England. The AFRI-c (Air Filters to Prevent Respiratory Infections including COVID-19 in Care Homes) study, which received funding from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), is led by researchers at the University of Bristol.

Region’s top football clubs back new #ChangeChampions domestic abuse campaign

15 October 2021

Bristol Rovers, Bath City FC and Newport’s County In The Community, three of the region’s leading football clubs and charitable organisations, are teaming up with University of Bristol researchers to back #ChangeChampions — a new domestic abuse campaign aimed at supporting men who want to change their behaviour in relationships with women.

New study shines a light on likely suicide among children and young people in England

14 October 2021

A new report led by University of Bristol academics has identified that 108 young people in England died under circumstances that were assessed as highly or moderately likely to be due to suicide between 2019 and 2020. The analysis, led by the University of Bristol’s National Child Mortality Database [NCMD] programme, which gathers comprehensive information on all children who die in England below the age of 18 years with the aim of identifying ways that could help reduce them in future, is published today [14 Oct].

Ruby Wax to headline this month’s Good Grief Festival

13 October 2021

American-British actress, comedian, writer, mental health campaigner and lecturer - Ruby Wax - will headline the Good Grief Festival, which returns later this month (Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 October).

Collaborative COVID-19 lockdown effort delivers major boost for vaccine innovation in Bristol

7 October 2021

Faster vaccine development could be a step closer thanks to £4 million investment to Imophoron Ltd, a Bristol University biotech start-up developing a novel, next generation rapid-response vaccine platform called ADDomer™. Imophoron will use the investment to bring ADDomer vaccines to clinical stage, initially targeting three viruses, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), COVID-19, and mosquito-borne Chikungunya.

Allergies including asthma and hay fever not linked to mental health traits

6 October 2021

Allergic diseases such as asthma, atopic dermatitis and hay fever do not cause the onset of mental health conditions or vice versa, according to the findings of a new University of Bristol-led study published today (6 October) in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy.

It is safe for people to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza at the same time, study shows

30 September 2021

Research has found that it is safe for people to receive a flu vaccine at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine. Reported side effects were mainly mild to moderate, and there were no negative impacts on the immune response produced by either vaccine when both were given on the same day, in opposite arms.

Bristol students join prestigious health leadership programme

30 September 2021

Two medicine students from the University of Bristol have been selected to join a scholarship that aims to develop the health leaders of the future.

Staying on long-term antidepressants reduces risk of relapse

29 September 2021

When people stop taking antidepressants after a long period of use, just over half (56 per cent) experience a relapse within a year, compared to 39 per cent of those who stay on medication, finds a new study led by UCL and involving researchers from the universities of Bristol, Southampton, York and McMaster University in Canada.

Largest trial of antibiotic amoxicillin for treating chest infections in children finds little effect

28 September 2021

The largest randomised placebo-controlled trial of the antibiotic amoxicillin for treating chest infections in children - one of the most common acute illnesses treated in primary care in developed countries, has found it is little more effective at relieving symptoms than the use of no medication. The study, published in The Lancet and funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), was led by researchers from the University of Southampton and supported by centres at the Universities of Bristol, Oxford and Cardiff.

Race against the virus: the Oxford AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine journey

28 September 2021

In late December 2019, a cluster of unusual pneumonia cases - now known to be the first human cases of COVID-19 - were reported in Wuhan, China. Thanks to the quick action of an Oxford scientist and her team, work on the response to the new virus began. Members of the public have the opportunity to hear the story of the Oxford AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at a free online event next month.

Academic partnership NIHR announces £25 million funding for the School for Public Health Research

20 September 2021

The NIHR has reaffirmed its commitment to public health research by awarding a third round of funding to the NIHR School for Public Health Research (SPHR).

Bristol’s Engineering, Education and Medicine courses among best in the country, Sunday Times and Guardian find

17 September 2021

The University of Bristol is among the best places in the country to study Engineering, Education and Medicine.

Thousands to be invited to Bristol health study’s biggest ever clinic, starting this September

17 September 2021

Over 20,000 participants will be invited to Bristol health study Children of the 90s’ biggest ever clinic which has launched today (Friday 17 September).

£1.5 million to research the role of genes and specific cell-types in Alzheimer’s disease

10 September 2021

Research that will for the first time examine changes in how genes function in specific brain cell-types to better understand the development of Alzheimer’s disease has received a £1.5 million grant from the Medical Research Council.

Fat matters more than muscle for heart health, research finds

9 September 2021

New research has found that changes in body fat impact early markers of heart health more than changes in body muscle, suggesting there are greater benefits to be expected from losing fat than from gaining muscle.

Major international study reports the impact of genetics on epigenetic factors

9 September 2021

Understanding what causes epigenetic variation could be a step closer thanks to a new atlas of genetic effects on epigenetic factors. The atlas, which has been established by an international consortium led by the University of Bristol, will enable scientists to learn more about the mechanisms underpinning gene regulation.

Bristol doctor in COVID heroes book featuring Captain Sir Tom Moore

3 September 2021

A recently graduated doctor features in a new book honouring Captain Sir Tom Moore and the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Misinformation on Twitter Adversely Affects Adults’ Health Decisions

2 September 2021

A new study is the first to explore the effect of misinformation on Twitter about e-cigarette harms.

New option for how people with Covid-19 are cared for on NHS wards

30 August 2021

A new protocol for prone positioning — a technique commonly used to treat COVID-19 patients in respiratory distress by turning them on to their front to increase oxygen flow to the lungs, is published in the Journal of Frailty and Aging. Researchers from the University of Bristol in collaboration with clinicians at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, conducted a literature review of the manoeuvre to develop a standard protocol for the adjuvant treatment that can be used for COVID-19 patients at high risk of dying being treated in normal hospital wards.

Exposure to air pollution linked with increased mental health service-use, new study finds

27 August 2021

Exposure to traffic-related air pollution is associated with increased mental health service-use among people recently diagnosed with psychotic and mood disorders such as schizophrenia and depression, a study on data from over 13,000 people has found.

Recreating heart blood vessels by Elisa Avolio

Bristol scientist beats competition to win national science image contest with heart vessel image

25 August 2021

A scientist from the University of Bristol has won the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) annual ‘Reflections of Research’ image competition. Where science and art collide, the competition challenges BHF-funded scientists to showcase their state-of-the-art heart and circulatory disease research through the generation of captivating images.

Teens who use cannabis frequently more likely to have premature baby, study suggests

19 August 2021

Teenagers who use cannabis frequently may be more likely to have children born preterm, when they become parents up to twenty years later, finds a new University of Bristol-led study. The research, published in Scientific Reports, repeatedly assessed 665 participants in a general population cohort on their tobacco and cannabis use between ages 14 to 29 years, before pregnancy.

New hypothesis proposed for how chlamydia might increase cancer and ectopic pregnancy risk

16 August 2021

A review of evidence by researchers at the University of Bristol and University of Edinburgh has suggested a possible new means by which chlamydia could lead to an increased risk of cancer and ectopic pregnancy. The hypothesis also provides a possible explanation for how pelvic inflammatory disease may be triggered in some women.

New research lifts the lid on cardiac microvascular dysfunction

9 August 2021

New research has shown abnormalities in the tiny blood vessels of human hearts in regions well beyond the large arteries with atherosclerotic blockages that trigger the need for stents or bypass surgery. The findings could lead to the development of new treatments for patients with angina-like symptoms without blockages or those recovering from a heart attack or unexplained heart failure.

The People’s Olympians: Inspirational couple raise £75,000 with epic charity challenge

6 August 2021

They have fallen off horses, been rescued from lakes and have run, cycled and swum hundreds of miles – but Stuart Bates and Charlotte Nichols refuse to give up.

Early adulthood education and employment experiences play independent role in later life cardiovascular health

6 August 2021

New research has found that education and employment experiences in early adulthood contribute to cardiovascular health inequalities in later life, independent of occupation and family income in mid-adulthood. The findings, published today in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, involve researchers from the University of Cambridge, University of Bristol and UCL Social Research Institute.

New multi-million-pound research consortium aims to reduce harms caused by violence

29 July 2021

A new multi-million-pound research project that will provide world-leading data on violence coincides with the launch of a new consortium which aims to reduce harms caused by violence.

Does testosterone influence success? Not much, research suggests

28 July 2021

With the Olympics underway, higher testosterone has often been linked to sporting success, and other kinds of success too. But beyond sport, new research has found little evidence that testosterone meaningfully influences life chances for men or women. In fact, the study suggests that despite the social myths surrounding testosterone, it could be much less important than previously thought.

A Bristol consultant who completed her PhD while receiving chemotherapy for cancer said the illness was her ‘tool’

27 July 2021

A paediatric anesthetist finished her PhD at the University of Bristol six months early despite fighting cancer.

Meet the University of Bristol sporting stars going for gold

23 July 2021

Seven sporting stars from the University of Bristol are making their final preparations for the pandemic-delayed 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo, which officially get underway today with graduate Hannah Mills leading out Team GB at the opening ceremony.

New research could help clear backlog of surgery since it shows use of airway device in anaesthetic procedures does not produce aerosols as previously thought

21 July 2021

A new study by researchers from the University of Bristol could help to improve the efficiency of surgery and tackle the growing backlog of surgery caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

£3.6M funding for research into the link between physical and mental health problems

16 July 2021

A research team led by the MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics (MRC CNGG) at Cardiff University and involving researchers from the University of Bristol has received significant funding for an international collaborative project to study the link between physical and mental health problems.

Making innovations in surgery safer

13 July 2021

A study to help surgical innovations be developed more safely and efficiently has published a 'core outcome set' for new surgical techniques and devices in the Annals of Surgery. The COHESIVE study, led by National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded researchers at the University of Bristol, devised the set through a robust process involving patients, surgeons and other health professionals.

Five ways to strike a happy, healthy, and safe balance as England team shoots for Euro 2020 glory amidst COVID-19 pandemic

9 July 2021

The countdown for England’s big game has begun and all hopes are set on victory at the Euro 2020 Final. If you’re looking for advice to make the most of the experience, win or lose, while also striking a balance and being kind to others, experts at the University of Bristol are on the ball with top tips to help you through the inevitable ups and downs on Sunday.

Covid-19: Risks of severe illness in children shown to be very low in largest study yet

9 July 2021

The risk of severe illness and death from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, is extremely low in children and teenagers, according to the most comprehensive analyses of public health data, led by researchers at UCL, University of Bristol, University of York and the University of Liverpool.

Study shows aspirin can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in patients with pneumonia

8 July 2021

Aspirin can reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as ischemic stroke and heart attack in patients with pneumonia, according to new research.

Interleukin-6 antagonists improve outcomes in hospitalised COVID-19 patients

6 July 2021

Findings from a study published today [6 July] in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) have prompted new World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations to use interleukin-6 antagonists in patients with severe or critical COVID-19 along with corticosteroids.

New guidance published to help GPs interpret Lateral Flow Device test results

2 July 2021

New guidance for GPs and other health professionals on how to interpret and communicate results from Lateral Flow Device (LFDs) tests based on the current understanding of the tests’ performance is published in the BMJ. Researchers from the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge, and Trinity College Dublin have devised a calculator which aims to help doctors, who are increasingly asked by patients what they should do after receiving their results, to better advise patients on what their LFD test result means.

Major £2.8 million UKRI research programme to explore mental health outcomes for care-experienced young people

28 June 2021

A significant, new research programme will investigate factors linked to the mental health and wellbeing of care-experienced young people during two transition periods: moving from primary to secondary school and moving from adolescence into adulthood.

Longest known SARS-CoV-2 infection of nearly 300 days successfully treated with new therapy

24 June 2021

An immunocompromised individual with the longest known PCR confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 infection, lasting more than 290 days, has been successfully treated with two investigational monoclonal antibodies (laboratory engineered antibodies). Clinicians and researchers from the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT) worked closely to assess and treat the infection and want to highlight the urgent need for improved access to treatments for such people with persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection.

How does the one-humped Arabian camel survive without drinking?

23 June 2021

Research led by scientists at the University of Bristol has shed new light on how the kidneys of the one-humped Arabian camel play an important role in helping it to cope with extremes.

New research finds GCSE results linked to child’s enjoyment of school aged six

21 June 2021

A child's enjoyment of school at six years old is linked to their GCSE results aged 16, according to new research from the University of Bristol, published in the journal Science of Learning.

Validating digital tools for remote clinical research

18 June 2021

A team of scientists from Cambridge Cognition and the University of Bristol have been developing digital assessments for remote clinical research.

GW4 takes a world leading One Health approach to tackling the antimicrobial resistance pandemic

17 June 2021

The GW4 Alliance (Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter universities – GW4) formally launched their new ‘One Health’ antimicrobial resistance research consortium this week [Wednesday 16 June]. The World Health Organisation cites antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as one of the most significant risks facing the world. AMR threatens global health and development as it impacts on human, animal and plant health and also our environment, water safety and food security.

How have vaccines helped to protect the world and how can they continue to do so?

16 June 2021

The power of vaccines to help save lives and shape our world has never been more evident as countries around the world fight against COVID-19. The pandemic has also highlighted how vital it is for industry, academia and global populations to work together in the race for effective vaccines. The importance of vaccine research to global public health will be discussed later this week by a distinguished panel of experts at a live online event jointly organised by the University of Bristol and Pfizer.

HIV has detrimental effect on children’s growth and bone strength, finds landmark study

14 June 2021

Children growing up with HIV infection have concerning deficits in skeletal strength which become more apparent towards the end of pubertal growth, finds the largest study to date to investigate the link between HIV and skeletal health in children. The study, conducted in Zimbabwe and published in The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, identifies a link between these skeletal deficits and the first-line antiretroviral-HIV drug, tenofovir disproxil fumarate (TDF), which is widely used across sub-Saharan Africa.

Palaeontologist, infectious disease mathematical modeller, anaesthetist and ecologist receive Queen’s Birthday Honours

12 June 2021

University of Bristol academics Professor Mike Benton, Dr Ellen Brooks Pollock, Professor Tim Cook and Professor Jane Memmott have all received awards in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list which recognises the achievements and service of people across the UK.

Young infants produce strong immune response to SARS-CoV-2, study finds

11 June 2021

Young infants show strong immune responses to SARS-CoV-2, new research has found. In particular, compared with adults, young infants produce relatively high levels of antibodies and immune cells that can specifically protect against COVID-19.

Analysis of child deaths in England shows importance of care for premature and young babies

10 June 2021

Actions to reduce the number of babies born before 37 weeks’ gestation and improve their outcomes are among the recommendations made by the University of Bristol National Child Mortality Database (NCMD) team, who carried out national analysis of child deaths in England. This is one of the findings, published today [10 June] in NCMD’s second annual report, which aims to learn lessons from all child deaths in order to reduce the number of children who die in the future.

Understanding the hidden causes of delays in discharging frail older people from hospital

8 June 2021

Delays in discharging older people living with frailty from hospital are caused by a complex range of factors, but a key factor is how medical and social information about patients becomes fragmented during their stay. This is the conclusion of a study in two large NHS hospitals led by National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded researchers at the Universities of Bristol and Birmingham, published today [8 June] in Ageing & Society.

Scientific evidence that informed UK Government’s response to COVID-19

31 May 2021

Scientific evidence that was used to inform the UK government’s key policies impacting millions of people during the first wave of COVID-19 including the rule of six and the first national stay-at-home order is published today [31 May] in the journal of the Royal Society. The Special Theme issue is compiled and guest edited by SPI-M scientists including infectious disease modellers Drs Ellen Brooks Pollock and Leon Danon at the University of Bristol.

Many of us could carry extra fat due to a change in a single gene

27 May 2021

New research has found that one in every 340 people might carry a mutation in a single gene that makes them more likely to have a greater weight from early childhood and, by 18 years of age, they could be up to 30 pounds heavier with the excess weight likely to be mostly fat.

Smoking during pregnancy associated with child’s risk of having congenital heart disease

27 May 2021

Children born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy were at increased risk of having congenital heart disease, a new study published today [27 May] in the Journal of the American Heart Association has found.

Study reveals huge pressures on anaesthesia and critical care workforce and hospitals during winter wave of COVID-19 pandemic, and devastating drop in surgical activity

19 May 2021

New research published in Anaesthesia, a journal of the Association of Anaesthetists, shows the huge pressure anaesthesia and critical care staff in the UK have been under throughout the winter wave of COVID-19, as the number of newly admitted infected patients surged and most planned surgeries, including a substantial number of critical cancer operations, were cancelled.

Study finds increased emotional difficulties in children during the pandemic

17 May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic may be associated with continuing emotional and behavioural difficulties in children after the age of two, a new study out today [17 May] from researchers at the University of Bristol has found.

Study shows online gambling soared during lockdown, especially among regular gamblers

17 May 2021

Regular gamblers were more than six times more likely to gamble online compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new research.

Over a fifth of all child deaths in England could be avoided by reducing deprivation, new report finds

13 May 2021

Around 700 child deaths that occur in England each year might be avoided by reducing deprivation, finds a new NHS England-funded report published today [13 May]. The University of Bristol National Child Mortality Database (NCMD)-led analysis identified a clear association between the risk of death and level of deprivation for children in England, for all categories of death except cancer.

University professors join Academy of Medical Sciences Fellowship

12 May 2021

Professor Jane Blazeby and Professor Jonathan Sterne have been elected to The Academy of Medical Sciences’ respected and influential Fellowship.

Aerosol generating procedures: are they of relevance for transmission of SARS-CoV-2?

7 May 2021

Emerging evidence indicates that many currently defined aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) are unlikely to play any significant role in the generation of infectious aerosol that poses a risk to hospital staff. In a comment article published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine today [6 May] a research team from the University of Bristol discusses AGPs and the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in a healthcare setting.

Considerable gap in evidence around whether portable air filters reduce the incidence of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections

29 April 2021

There is an important absence of evidence regarding the effectiveness of a potentially cost-efficient intervention to prevent indoor transmission of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, warns a study by researchers at the University of Bristol.

Bristol study to improve success of IVF treatment resumes

29 April 2021

A major study into the factors affecting IVF treatment success, led by NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) researchers at the University of Bristol, is restarting after a year-long pause due to COVID-19.

New research plans confirmed on Bristol health study’s 30th birthday

28 April 2021

Thirty years after it first started, the Children of the 90s health study – one of the largest, most detailed longitudinal birth cohorts in the world – announced today [28 April] that it will launch its biggest collection of health data yet on three generations of Bristol families in September.

Bristol documentary photographer captures some of the faces behind COVID-19 research

27 April 2021

The human stories behind Bristol scientists who are playing an important role in global efforts to overcome COVID-19 have been captured in a billboard campaign by a Bristol-based photographer.

Bristol awarded record number of European grants for ‘excellent’ science, third highest in Europe

22 April 2021

The University will receive €13M for globally significant research into anti-microbial resistance, artificial reproduction, futuristic materials, quantum mechanics, the philosophy of evolution and a truth taskforce to combat misinformation.

NIHR Bristol BRC to benefit from internship programme to tackle underrepresentation of Black people in science

20 April 2021

The National Institute for Health Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre (NIHR Bristol BRC), a partnership between the University of Bristol and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW), will host intern Angel Obierozie this summer as part of the Health Data Research UK (HDR UK) programme to tackle the underrepresentation of Black people in science.

No evidence of a significant increase in risk of suicide in first months of the pandemic, but continued monitoring needed

13 April 2021

A new observational study is the first to examine suicides occurring during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in multiple countries and finds that suicide numbers largely remained unchanged or declined in the pandemic's early months. The study, led by an international team including University of Bristol researchers, is published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal.

Newly launched British biotech company pioneers ground-breaking potential treatments for COVID-19

13 April 2021

A team of top scientists from the University of Bristol have announced the formation of a new biotech company that is developing ground-breaking and newly patented potential treatments for coronavirus.

Alistair Williams, 1959-2020

31 March 2021

Alistair Williams, Research Fellow in the Bristol Medical School, died last autumn. His colleagues in the Diabetes and Metabolism team offer a remembrance.

Autism in the Somali community – myth-busting short films offer advice and top tips for parents

29 March 2021

A series of five evidence-based short films and factsheets about autism for the Somali community have been launched by National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded researchers at the University of Bristol and community organisation Autism Independence.

Homelessness and unstable housing are associated with increased HIV and HCV risk among people who inject drugs

26 March 2021

Homelessness and unstable housing are associated with a substantial increase in HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) acquisition risk among people who inject drugs, according to research led by the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at the University of Bristol.

Volunteers needed for study looking into whether COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be administered at the same time

26 March 2021

Researchers at the Bristol Trials Centre (CTEU) at the University of Bristol and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) are leading a new study which could set the foundations for how booster COVID-19 vaccinations are delivered in the future. The study, supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), will determine whether booster COVID-19 vaccines should be given at the same time as flu vaccines.

Bristol primary school pupils become scientists for a day

26 March 2021

Pupils at a Bristol school became scientists for a day to understand more about how PCR testing works to diagnose for COVID-19. Four Acres Academy is one of many local schools that are taking part in a ground-breaking University of Bristol research project to increase researchers understanding of infection patterns of COVID-19 in children.

How Bristol’s research has played a key role in the world’s response to COVID-19

23 March 2021

As the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, academics from across the University of Bristol joined together to understand the virus and the impact of the pandemic. Today [23 March] is a year since the first UK lockdown and their research is continuing to play a key role in global efforts to overcome the disease.

Domestic abuse increased globally during pandemic, say researchers

18 March 2021

Incidence of domestic abuse may have doubled in some countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests a British Medical Journal (BMJ) editorial by Prof Gene Feder from the University of Bristol, colleagues in Brazil and Nepal, and the CEO of IRISi, a social enterprise in the UK domestic violence sector. The editorial highlights the need for improved access to support services and ‘safe spaces’ due to the global rise in calls to domestic abuse hotlines and in police incident reports.

Children still needed for study on how immune systems respond to COVID-19

9 March 2021

Young people living in the Bristol area are already helping University of Bristol researchers to understand how children’s immune systems respond to COVID-19, but even more children are needed to take part, especially those from ethnic minorities.

Tocilizumab cuts mortality risk in severely ill COVID-19 patients finds new trial conducted in India

8 March 2021

Tocilizumab, an anti-inflammatory drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, improves outcomes in severely ill COVID-19 patients, finds the results of a new trial conducted in hospitals across India — one of the world’s most ethnically diverse countries.

Bristol Science Film Festival 2021 - calling all creatives to submit short films!

18 February 2021

Bristol’s Science Film Festival is set to take place this summer and the organisers of the annual event are calling for submissions from amateur and professional movie makers ahead of the festival’s July showcase. Film-makers behind shortlisted films will have their films screened and a chance to win cash prizes.

Bristol researchers to collaborate on national study to understand long COVID

18 February 2021

What is long COVID and how can diagnosis be improved? Using data from electronic health records at a national scale alongside information from thousands of participants in the UK's population-based cohort studies, these and other questions will be tackled following today's [18 February] announcement of a nationwide long COVID study led by University College London (UCL). The study will include Bristol’s Children of the 90s health study, based at the University of Bristol.

UK's COVID-19 vaccination programme already reducing daily deaths

11 February 2021

A new modelling study shows that the UK’s COVID-19 vaccination programme is already reducing daily deaths. However, reductions of hospital and intensive care (ICU) admissions will likely take several weeks longer, with large reductions seen by the end of March and continuing into April.

How GPs coped with the rapid shift to remote consultations to reduce the risk of COVID-19

9 February 2021

One of the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the rapid move to telephone, video and online GP consultations. In a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded study, researchers from the Centre for Academic Primary Care at the University of Bristol and NIHR ARC West found that while the rapid shift to remote GP consulting was successful and maintained a focus on vulnerable patients, it was driven by necessity and may have risks.

Clients of female sex workers should be targeted for HIV prevention and treatment in South Africa

4 February 2021

The unmet HIV prevention and treatment needs of female sex workers and especially their male clients could contribute substantially to ongoing HIV transmission in South Africa, according to a new study led by University of Bristol researchers.

Women invited to join study into nutrition advice in pregnancy

21 January 2021

The University is seeking volunteers for a new study that will identify the foods women tend to avoid during pregnancy and the information sources that influence their decision to include or avoid certain foods.

Study finds national data may be underestimating illicit drug use in young people

18 January 2021

A study published today [18 January] in the publication Addiction suggests that the UK government’s current national population-based data may be understating illicit drug usage among young people by as much as 20 per cent.

New research shows the importance of consuming enough vitamin B12 in pregnancy

11 January 2021

A new study published in Nutrition Research has found that children born to a mother with low intake of Vitamin B12 during pregnancy were at increased risk of adverse development specific to certain speech and mathematical abilities.

Study highlights stark inequality in survival after cardiac surgery between paying and NHS patients

16 December 2020

A new study has revealed paying patients are 20 per cent less likely to die or develop major complications, such as reintervention or stroke, after cardiac surgery than NHS patients – findings researchers say cannot be explained by socioeconomic factors alone.

Analysis finds four repurposed antiviral drugs have little or no effect on patients hospitalised for COVID-19

4 December 2020

Repurposed antiviral drugs - remdesivir, hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir and interferon - to treat COVID-19 appear to have little or no effect on patients hospitalised for the disease, in terms of overall mortality, initiation of ventilation and duration of hospital stay. The interim findings from the WHO Solidarity trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), followed 11,266 adults at 405 hospitals in 30 countries.

Small and large birth weight linked to genetics of mother and baby – except in tiniest babies

2 December 2020

Genetics of mother and baby contribute to most cases where babies are born very large or very small, according to new research.

Treatment for drug addiction - how do patients cope in lockdown?

27 November 2020

There are encouraging signs that people in treatment for drug addiction can manage their medication when they are entrusted with a substantial quantity of opiate substitutes and told to take it in small daily doses, finds a new ‘early insight’ report from researchers at the Universities of Bristol and Bath.

Young people's anxiety levels doubled during first COVID-19 lockdown, says study

24 November 2020

The number of young people with anxiety doubled from 13 per cent to 24 per cent, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown 1, according to new research from the University of Bristol. The study, using Bristol’s Children of the 90s questionnaire data, showed that young people (27-29 years) reported higher levels of anxiety during the early phases of the pandemic in the first national lockdown and this was higher than their parents.

Bristol secures £45M to advance gene therapy treatment of chronic kidney diseases

19 November 2020

The University of Bristol has secured a £45million deal to advance its groundbreaking gene therapy technology for chronic kidney diseases. The commitment, made by healthcare company Syncona Ltd to Bristol spin-out Purespring Therapeutics, aims to address a global unmet need for renal conditions in one of the largest single investments made to a new UK university biotech company.

Accuracy of rapid covid test may be lower than previously suggested

12 November 2020

The accuracy of a rapid finger-prick antibody test for SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid-19 infection, may be considerably lower than previously suggested, finds a study led by scientists from Public Health England and the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge and Warwick published in The BMJ.

Bristol study completes COVID-19 antibody testing

10 November 2020

Children of the 90s, a health study based at the University of Bristol, has today published results from a study testing almost 5,000 participants for COVID-19 antibodies. 4.3% reported a positive result, of which a quarter were asymptomatic and did not report any symptoms in previous questionnaires.

Launch of new neurodevelopmental and neurodiversity network

2 November 2020

A new regional network between the GW4 universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter has launched which will focus on research into neurodiversity and conditions such as ADHD and autism. It will draw on world-leading expertise across GW4, including the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at Bristol, the Wales Autism Research Centre at Cardiff, and Egenis research groups at Exeter. While supported by GW4 – a research alliance bringing together the four universities - the network hopes to generate engagement from other researchers, clinicians, the public, and third sector organisations from around the region.

What’s the STORY of infectious diseases in the UK?

26 October 2020

A study looking at how children's immune systems respond to COVID-19, and to vaccines for other infectious diseases, is asking children under the age of 20 who live in the Bristol area to consider taking part. The research project is being run by the Bristol Children’s Vaccine Centre (BCVC) at Bristol Medical School, and the Oxford Vaccine Group which is part of the University of Oxford.

Bristol researchers awarded Future Leaders Fellowships

15 October 2020

Four Bristol researchers have been awarded UK Research and Innovation's (UKRI) prestigious Future Leaders Fellowships. The awards, designed to establish the careers of world-class research and innovation leaders across the UK to help them tackle major global challenges, are announced today [15 October] by Science Minister Amanda Solloway.

New emergency care research hub for Bristol launched

9 October 2020

The University of Bristol and UWE Bristol have joined forces with health care partners in the city to set up a collaborative research hub to improve the delivery of emergency care in Bristol and the surrounding area. The new hub, Research in Emergency Care, Avon Collaborative Hub (REACH), was launched today [Friday 9 October].

Research suggests significantly less risk of COVID-19 transmission from anaesthesia procedures

6 October 2020

Since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been much debate about the danger to hospital staff from anaesthetic procedures. Concerns include that placing a tube in the patient's airway (intubation) before surgery or removing it at the end (extubation) may produce a fine mist of small particles (called aerosols) and spread the COVID-19 virus to nearby staff.

Risk of self-harm increases for boys and girls who experience earlier puberty

6 October 2020

Boys and girls who experience puberty earlier than their peers have an increased risk of self-harm in adolescence, a study funded by the National Institute for Health Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre (NIHR Bristol BRC) and published in the journal Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences today [Tuesday 6 October] has found.

9/11 can teach us how to support those bereaved during COVID-19, researchers find

16 September 2020

Researchers from a leading end-of-life charity have looked to 9/11 and other mass death events for approaches to support people bereaved through COVID-19.

Positive reaction to Somerset study into the best way to prevent domestic abuse

16 September 2020

A Somerset study into the most effective way to tackle domestic abuse has received a positive response from its first participants. Barnardo's in Somerset has been funded by the University of Bristol to deliver weekly groups to local men and improve safety for their partners, ex-partners and children.

Stopping the spread of coronavirus in universities

14 September 2020

As universities prepare to welcome students back, infectious disease modelling experts at the University of Bristol have conducted a rapid review and developed a new epidemic model which contributed to evidence considered by SAGE to assess the effectiveness of different interventions that could stop the spread of Sars-CoV-2 in a university setting. The findings, published on the preprint server medRxiv, provides the sector with recommendations to help reduce the risk for students, staff and the wider community.

Study to identify transmission risk of COVID-19 aerosols during medical procedures

11 September 2020

Many operations, due to the potential risk of COVID-19 aerosols being generated, have been delayed or are being performed with additional personal protective equipment (PPE), which has greatly reduced NHS services. A new National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)-funded study will identify which medical procedures are truly aerosol generating and whether the virus remains viable in the aerosol produced. The findings will be crucial in providing guidance about the safe reopening of essential NHS services.

How can we get pupils and staff back-to-school safely during COVID-19?

11 September 2020

Ensuring pupils and staff stay safe when they return to school this autumn is a major challenge because there is very little scientific evidence on the incidence and transmission of COVID-19 within schools. A ground-breaking research project will test whether 5,000 staff and pupils have active or past COVID-19 infection, develop systems to help schools prevent and cope with an outbreak and assess strategies to support the mental wellbeing of the school community now and moving forward.

Genetic study of proteins is a breakthrough in drug development for complex diseases

7 September 2020

An innovative genetic study of blood protein levels, led by researchers in the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit (MRC-IEU) at the University of Bristol, has demonstrated how genetic data can be used to support drug target prioritisation by identifying the causal effects of proteins on diseases.

Analysis of seven trials finds that corticosteroids reduce risk of death by 20 per cent in critically ill COVID-19 patients

2 September 2020

Corticosteroids reduce the risk of death among critically ill COVID-19 patients by 20 per cent, an analysis of seven trials published today [2 September] in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has found. The results of three of the trials included in the meta-analysis are also published in JAMA today.

Handgrip strength shown to identify people at high risk of type 2 diabetes

2 September 2020

A simple test such as the strength of your handgrip could be used as a quick, low-cost screening tool to help healthcare professionals identify patients at risk of type 2 diabetes. In new research, scientists at the universities of Bristol and Eastern Finland measured the muscular handgrip strength of 776 men and women without a history of diabetes over a 20-year period and demonstrated that the risk of type 2 diabetes was reduced by around 50 per cent for every unit increase in handgrip strength value. The findings are published today in Annals of Medicine.

Report reveals young people felt less anxious and more connected to school in lockdown

24 August 2020

Younger teenagers in the South West of England felt less anxious and more connected to school when they were away from it during the COVID-19 global pandemic public lockdown, a first-of-its-kind study has found.

High intensity physical activity in early adolescence could lead to stronger bones in adulthood

17 August 2020

High intensity physical activity in early life might help maximise peak hip strength and prevent osteoporosis in later life, according to a study from University of Bristol researchers published in JAMA Network Open today [17 August].

New diagnostic criteria shine light on early dementia mimics

17 August 2020

Experts estimate up to one third of people attending specialist memory clinics could have a condition that is commonly mistaken for early dementia.

Support frontline workers to engage parents struggling with safer sleeping advice

16 July 2020

The Government needs to develop new tools to help prevent the sudden unexpected death of infants (SUDI), says a new review by the Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel which included University of Bristol researchers.

Overall COVID-19 intensive care mortality has fallen by a third

15 July 2020

A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies from three continents shows overall mortality of COVID-19 patients in intensive care units (ICUs) has fallen from almost 60 per cent at the end of March to 42 per cent at the end of May — a relative decrease of one third since the start of the pandemic.

Childhood abuse can lead to a 50 per cent increased risk of heart attack in women

14 July 2020

Individuals who have suffered maltreatment in childhood have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to new University of Bristol research in Heart.

Pioneering brain haemorrhage treatment reduces long-term disability in premature babies

5 July 2020

Premature babies with serious brain haemorrhage treated with a ‘brain washing’ technique pioneered by Bristol researchers have shown in a 10-year follow-up study, were twice as likely to survive without severe learning disability when compared with infants given standard treatment. The findings are published today [5 July] in the journal Archives of Diseases in Childhood.

Trailblazing study discovers novel genetic causes of rare diseases, leading to improved diagnosis and better patient care

2 July 2020

A research programme pioneering the use of whole genome sequencing in the NHS has diagnosed hundreds of patients and discovered new genetic causes of disease.

Novel pathology could improve diagnosis and treatment of Huntington’s and other diseases

30 June 2020

Bristol scientists have discovered a novel pathology that occurs in several human neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington’s disease.

Bristol part of largest global study on impact of COVID-19 across 129 countries

26 June 2020

The COH-FIT project is currently the largest survey worldwide on the health impact of COVID-19 and is endorsed by the World Psychiatric Association. The study aims to identify risk and protective factors for physical and mental health problems and to guide strategies for remedying these problems. The COH-FIT project involves 200 researchers from 35 countries, including Bristol, aims to help scientists understand how different countries have been affected by the pandemic.

Pioneering research reveals certain human genes relate to gut bacteria

22 June 2020

The role genetics and gut bacteria play in human health has long been a fruitful source of scientific enquiry, but new research marks a significant step forward in unraveling this complex relationship. Its findings could transform our understanding and treatment of all manner of common diseases, including obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, and Alzheimer's disease.

Signs of being prone to adult diabetes are already visible at age 8 years old

19 June 2020

Early signs of being more susceptible to type 2 diabetes as an adult can be seen in children as young as 8 years old, decades before it is likely to be diagnosed, according to a new study published in Diabetes Care today [19 June 2020].

Wiltshire dad celebrates Father’s Day after baby daughter’s life-saving heart operation

19 June 2020

A Wiltshire dad is preparing to celebrate Father’s Day with his daughter – the first since she was born with a serious heart defect.

Anxiety levels doubled in young people following COVID-19 lockdown, says study

19 June 2020

Young people’s anxiety levels have doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic with 24 per cent experiencing anxiety up from 13 per cent in pre-pandemic waves, according to research from the University of Bristol.

Study finds evidence that loneliness makes it harder to quit smoking

16 June 2020

In a study published in the journal Addiction, University of Bristol researchers have found evidence for a causal link between prolonged experience of loneliness and smoking.

Blocking brain signals detected in the kidney could help unlock future treatments for kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke

15 June 2020

Scientists have discovered an important cell signalling pathway in the kidney which if stopped, could hold the key to treating chronic kidney disease as well as other deadly conditions, including heart attack and stroke.

Research begins to rapidly understand deadly link between Covid-19 and cardiovascular diseases

12 June 2020

Improved care for people with heart and circulatory disease suffering from COVID-19 could soon be available after the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) announced support for six flagship research programmes. Researchers from across the UK including the University of Bristol will combine data from hospitals, information about our health and lifestyle, genetic studies, and cutting-edge imaging and artificial intelligence techniques to better understand how the virus affects the heart and circulatory system.

Impact of children's loneliness today could manifest in depression for years to come

1 June 2020

Children and adolescents are likely to experience high rates of depression and anxiety long after current lockdown and social isolation ends and clinical services need to be prepared for a future spike in demand, according to the authors of a new rapid review into the long-term mental health effects of lockdown.

Users of high-potency cannabis four times more likely to report associated problems

27 May 2020

Users of high-potency cannabis are four times more likely to report associated problems, and twice as likely to report anxiety disorder, than users of lower-potency strains, according to new research from the University of Bristol.

Researchers set to begin new phase of COVID-19 vaccine trials

22 May 2020

Researchers at North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) and the University of Bristol are set to begin a new phase of trials of a vaccine pioneered in the UK which could protect against COVID-19.

Study finds some reductions in community antibiotic resistant infections and dispensing

19 May 2020

A study by academics at the University of Bristol has found reductions in overall and individual antibiotic dispensing between 2013 and 2016 after evaluating, for the first time, national primary care prescribing policy on community antibiotic resistant infection.

Study to identify markers that could predict COVID-19 outcome

18 May 2020

COVID-19 is the UK's largest public health crisis since World War II. There is an urgent need to identify why some patients with the virus do very well whereas others need to be admitted to intensive care and may die from the disease. A new observational study aimed at identifying markers that predict how COVID-19 affects patients is being led by clinicians and academics at North Bristol NHS Trust and the University of Bristol.

Bristol Health Partners designated an Academic Health Science Centre

12 May 2020

Following a highly competitive process, Bristol Health Partners (BHP) is now one of only eight designated Academic Health Science Centres (AHSCs) in England. The AHSC will drive service change, leading to world-class health, clinical and economic outcomes for the regional population across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG).

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