More than six years following the start of the Covid pandemic, millions of people continue to experience long Covid symptoms. Researchers at University College London and University College London Hospitals conducted a clinical trial examining potential treatments for the condition. The trial investigated the effectiveness of commonly available antihistamines alongside colchicine, a prescription anti-inflammatory medication. Results indicated that this combination produced a modest reduction in fatigue levels among long Covid patients, though researchers stressed that this does not constitute a cure for the condition.
Professor Danny Altmann, an immunologist based at Imperial College London, discussed the implications of this research and highlighted ongoing challenges in understanding long Covid. He also outlined several upcoming studies that researchers hope will improve knowledge of how the condition develops and progresses, potentially leading to more effective treatments.
In separate health-related developments, the radio program also examined accessibility issues for people with stomas. According to Colostomy UK, around one in 335 people in the UK are living with a stoma. However, more than 60 per cent of those with a stoma report that inadequate toilet facilities negatively impact their daily lives. Following a campaign initiated in Bristol, the home improvement retailer B&Q has retrofitted its disabled toilet facilities to be stoma-friendly. The broadcast included a visit to a B&Q store with Mollie Pearce, who has lived with a stoma since age 18, and colorectal surgeon Ms Caroline Burt from Bristol Foundation Trust.
The program also addressed popular claims circulating on social media suggesting that ice cream consumption may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Nutritional scientist Dr Sarah Berry from King’s College London provided expert analysis on this phenomenon, which has been termed the ‘ice cream paradox.’
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