Increased evidence that e-cigarettes help smokers quit means doctors have an ethical obligation to prescribe them when other options fail. [ + ]

A man suffered unusual consequences when participating in a hot chilli pepper eating competition. [ + ]

A major study finds that the risk of dementia increases with the number and severity of brain trauma injuries. [ + ]

It's in everyone's best interests that cancer patients recover — including that of the Australian economy. [ + ]

Boys with asthma are 30% more likely to fracture a bone than boys without, while girls with asthma have no link to bone fractures. [ + ]

Worldwide, overuse of inappropriate tests and treatments such as imaging, opioids and surgery means patients are not receiving the right care, and resources are wasted. [ + ]

Pregnant women with anaemia are twice as likely to die during pregnancy or shortly after giving birth than those without anaemia. [ + ]

Women considering pregnancy should be told about the pros and cons of different approaches, say researchers. [ + ]

A new study has found that children as young as four with ADHD symptoms have reduced brain volumes in areas essential for behavioural control. [ + ]

A Canadian neuroscientist has found that for people with an early Alzheimer's diagnosis, ibuprofen may stop the disease. [ + ]

For two Australian nurses, not receiving a flu vax seriously impacted their health. Their message: stop by your pharmacy and get a flu jab. [ + ]

A 15-year research project has found that a one-week drug course will dramatically reduce meningitis deaths worldwide, and has been adopted by WHO. [ + ]

Lavender and tea tree oil have endocrine-disrupting chemicals, some of which may also be found in other popular essential oils. [ + ]

The humble platypus is proving to be an unlikely hero in the global fight against antibiotic resistance. [ + ]

Low-level lead exposure may be responsible for around 30% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease in the USA each year. [ + ]