Health

Ambulances from the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing have been seen heading into Gaza. The reopening of the enclave's southern crossing marks a major step in the US-backed peace plans' second phase. But for the moment, the Rafah gate is only being used on a trial basis - and key details are still unclear. Many Palestinians have been waiting for this moment, as they head to Egypt for medical treatment. Analysis by Dr. James Smith, deputy director of UCL's humanitarian policy and practice program. ]

Elizabeth Holmes, the former Theranos founder, has asked US President Donald Trump to release her from prison, with nearly six years still remaining on her sentence. Holmes’ request for commutation follows her 2022 conviction on wire fraud and conspiracy charges, and comes after a federal appeals court upheld her 11-year sentence earlier this year. ]

Eve Irvine is pleased to welcome Daisy Fancourt, Professor of Psychobiology & Epidemiology and Head of the Social Biobehavioural Research Group at UCL. Her new book "Art Cure" highlights the healing power of the arts. Drawing on thousands of scientific studies, Ms. Fancourt argues that the arts are an essential part of our well-being. From boosting dopamine and reducing cortisol, to enhancing brain plasticity and even altering gene expression, the book reveals the untapped potential of immersive, hands-on creativity for preventive health.  ]

As 79-year-old US President Donald Trump enters the second year of his second term, questions about his physical and cognitive health are a recurring topic amid viral images, defiant responses from the White House and a lack of medical disclosure. The debate echoes earlier controversies around the health of US leaders – and raises uncomfortable questions about transparency and power. ]

Most women around the world have a time in their lives where they think a lot about pregnancy: either how not to become pregnant, or perhaps how to do so. But around one in six people have experienced infertility at some point in their lives. That's the case of author and journalist Line Rifai, who tells us about her struggle to fall pregnant in her 30s. She has written a book in French entitled "Ménopause (très) précoce" or '"A very early menopause." ]