I inhaled traffic fumes to find out where air pollution goes in my body

This week has seen a flurry of health-related news, from the impact of air pollution on our bodies to concerns over baby formula safety and the latest on gut health and cancer awareness. Here, we synthesize the key developments and what they mean for our understanding of these critical health issues.

First, a groundbreaking experiment has shed light on the effects of air pollution on the human body. James Gallagher, a BBC Radio 4 presenter, volunteered to stand next to a busy road in central London for 10 minutes, breathing in the dirty air. The results were stark: his blood samples showed black markings, indicating the presence of air pollution particles. This experiment highlights the alarming impact of air pollution on our health, with poor air quality thought to kill 30,000 people a year in the UK.

Meanwhile, concerns over baby formula safety continue to grow. Danone has recalled 14 more batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate first infant and follow-on milks due to potential contamination with the toxin cereulide. This follows a series of recalls by manufacturers including Nestle and Danone, affecting over 60 countries since December. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has urged parents to check batches and stop using them, as the toxin can cause vomiting and stomach cramps.

In other news, experts have weighed in on the latest gut health trends, from drinking bone broth to taking sea moss gel. While the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in our wellbeing, evidence for many of these fixes is thin, and for most healthy people, obsessing over gut "healing" may be unnecessary. BBC science broadcaster Caroline Steel notes that our gut microbiome is more than just the digestive tract, but a complex system that impacts our mental and physical health.

Finally, a personal story highlights the importance of cancer awareness. Anthony Perriam, a dad-of-two, nearly lost his tongue to cancer after a small lump under his jaw turned out to be an HPV-related cancer. HPV is a common group of viruses that can cause cancer or genital warts, but often does not cause symptoms. Anthony's story serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and early detection, particularly for men.

In a separate development, a court has upheld the return of a surgeon who harassed staff, despite an appeal by the General Medical Council (GMC). James Gilbert was suspended from practicing for 12 months in 2024, but the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) restored his right to practice last year. The GMC argued that he should have been removed from the medical register, but the Court of Appeal has dismissed the challenge.

As we navigate these complex health issues, it is clear that awareness and education are key. From the impact of air pollution to the importance of cancer awareness and the latest on gut health, this week's revelations serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing our health and wellbeing.

Sources:

• BBC Radio 4: "I inhaled traffic fumes to find out where air pollution goes in my body"
• BBC News: "Court upholds return of surgeon who harassed staff"
• BBC News: "More baby formula products recalled over toxin fears"
• BBC News: "Olive oil and bone broth: Do viral gut health foods actually work?"
• BBC Wales: "Dad who nearly lost tongue to cancer urges men's virus awareness"