Woman’s Hour – Cornell University rape investigation, Tributes to Esther Rantzen, Sunbeds – BBC Sounds

by | Oct 2, 2026 | Health

Woman's Hour - Cornell University rape investigation, Tributes to Esther Rantzen, Sunbeds - BBC Sounds

New York state prosecutors have announced plans to reopen a criminal investigation into allegations of rape at Cornell University. The alleged victim, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, filed a lawsuit claiming seven members of the university’s Chi Phi fraternity chapter assaulted her during an incident in 2024 that involved alcohol and the drug ketamine. The case was previously investigated by university police and will now proceed to a grand jury. The matter has garnered significant public attention online, with numerous individuals, including actress Florence Pugh, expressing criticism regarding the university’s reported disciplinary response to the allegations. BBC North American correspondent Nada Tawfik and Tracey Vitchers, Executive Director of It’s On Us, a college sexual assault prevention organization, discussed the case with host Anita Rani.

Dame Esther Rantzen, a prominent broadcaster, campaigner and charity founder, has passed away at age 86. She is widely recognized for her work presenting the BBC television program That’s Life. Beyond her broadcasting career, Rantzen established Childline, a telephone helpline providing support to children experiencing abuse or neglect. She was also known for her advocacy work focusing on older people’s issues and assisted dying. Guardian journalist Zoe Williams reflected on Rantzen’s legacy and her influence on women’s lives.

Australia has introduced its Endometriosis Management Plan, which expands the roles of general practitioners and patients in managing endometriosis. Professor Danielle Mazza from Monash University in Melbourne played an instrumental role in designing and implementing the plan. Dr Sylvia Kama-Kieghe, a general practitioner in Sheffield and Vice President of Membership and Workforce at the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare, discussed potential benefits the United Kingdom might realize from adopting a similar approach.

A surge in sunbed usage driven by social media trends is reported to be contributing to rising skin cancer cases, particularly among younger populations. According to Cancer Research UK, melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer, ranks among the most frequently diagnosed cancers in individuals aged 15 to 34. Research conducted by the Teenage Cancer Trust indicates that approximately 48% of 18 to 34-year-olds in the UK use sunbeds, representing the highest proportion among all age groups. Observer journalist Marine Saint and Rosie Vare from the Teenage Cancer Trust examined this trend.

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