The BBC reports that researchers have developed a new type of pressure sensor – dubbed a ‘second skin’ – which they say could prevent dangerous sores. The technology is being developed initially for amputees who suffer rubbing against their artificial limbs.
If the Southampton University work is successful the sensors may also be used for others at risk, such as wheelchair users and those confined to bed. The new technology could be available to NHS patients within three years.
Meanwhile the Telegraph reports that falling salt consumption has played an ‘important role’ in the plummeting number of deaths from heart disease in Britain. Researchers have said that between 2003 and 2011 average salt intake in England reduced by around 15 per cent while the number of deaths from heart disease and stroke fell by 40 per cent, their study found.
The research by Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry and Queen Mary University, London, examined more than 30,000 patients over an eight year period.
And the Guardian writes that research has found that more drug users are buying their drugs online – including so-called legal highs as well as illegal drugs such as cannabis and MDMA – because they say the quality is better, there is more choice and it is more convenient. The 2014 Global Drug Survey (GDS) – which questioned almost 80,000 drug users from 43 countries, and is the largest research of its kind – indicates that although the majority of drug users still use dealers, a growing number are following 21st century shopping habits by going online.
