Glow Worms, Burial Practices, Lab Embryos
Stay informed and inspired with the latest science discoveries in this month's edition of Briefly Science.
I summarise 13 cutting-edge research papers spanning diverse topics, from ancient human rituals to breastfeeding's impact on education.
Learn how spaceflight affects astronaut immune systems, read about dramatic insect population declines in farmlands, and discover a potential breakthrough vaccine for chikungunya virus.
With complex studies presented in clear, engaging language, this newsletter makes groundbreaking academic research understandable and accessible for college students and non-experts alike.
Get your monthly dose of science made simple to empower and satisfy your curiosity.
Estimated reading time: 15 minutes
1: Artificial light disrupts male glow-worms' pursuit of love
Read the original paper: Artificial light impairs local attraction to females in male glow-worms
Publisher / Publication: Journal of Experimental Biology
Authors: Estelle M. Moubarak, A. Sofia David Fernandes, Alan J. A. Stewart, Jeremy E. Niven
Published: June 14th, 2023
DOI: 10.1242/jeb.245760
Are you aware of the impact that artificial lighting at night (ALAN) has on insects? Well, researchers have found that it interferes with the ability of male glow-worms to find and reach their female counterparts. This disruption in their reproduction is just one of the negative effects of ALAN on insect populations.
To understand how exactly ALAN affects male glow-worms, the researchers conducted an experiment using white illumination. They observed that as the brightness of the light increased, fewer males were able to reach a female-mimicking LED within a Y-maze. Additionally, the males took longer to reach their potential mates when exposed to brighter light.
Why are these effects happening? It turns out that male glow-worms spend more time in the central arm of the Y-maze and retract their heads beneath their head shield when exposed to brighter light. These behaviours indicate their aversion to white light.
Here's an interesting twist: when the researchers removed the illumination, the effects reversed rapidly. This shows that male glow-worms quickly return to their normal behaviour and avoid the light.
The impact of ALAN on male glow-worms extends beyond what was previously observed in field experiments. It raises concerns about the potential behavioural impacts of ALAN on other insect species that may go undetected in those experiments.
By shedding light on the negative consequences of ALAN on male glow-worms' ability to find and interact with females, this research offers valuable insights into the wider issue of insect population decline. It highlights the urgent need for further investigation into the effects of artificial lighting on various insect species, as well as the development of strategies to mitigate its negative impacts.
2: Ancient Rock Engravings Created by Homo Naledi: A Window into the Origins of Human Art
Read the original paper: 241,000 to 335,000 Years Old Rock Engravings Made by Homo naledi in the Rising Star Cave system, South Africa
Publisher / Publication: bioRxiv
Authors: Lee R Berger, John Hawks, Agustin Fuentes, Dirk van Rooyen, Mathabela Tsikoane
Published: June 5th, 2023
Throughout history, humans have expressed their thoughts and ideas through various forms of art. Paintings, etchings, and engravings on cave walls have provided valuable insights into our cognitive evolution.
Traditionally, these artistic expressions were believed to be exclusive to our species, Homo sapiens, during the Late Pleistocene era. However, recent research has shattered this notion by revealing that other hominin groups, such as Neanderthals and possibly Homo erectus, also left their artistic imprints.
This groundbreaking study delves into the first known example of abstract engravings found in the Dinaledi subsystem of South Africa's Rising Star Cave, created by Homo naledi.
The researchers discovered 30 meticulously engraved markings on the limestone walls of the cave. These impressive cross-hatchings and geometric shapes, deeply etched into the surface, display signs of intentional preparation and smoothing.
What makes these engravings truly remarkable is their association with Homo naledi, an ancient human species that was believed to have lived between 241,000 and 335,000 years ago. This raises intriguing questions about the cognitive abilities and meaning-making capacities of Homo naledi.
The engravings show evidence of repeated handling or rubbing, suggesting that they held significance for the individuals who created them. The application of dirt or sand to the surface by non-natural means further supports the idea that these markings were deliberately made.
By studying these ancient engravings, we gain a unique glimpse into the cognitive abilities and artistic expressions of our early human ancestors.
The evolution of meaningful symbols is considered a defining characteristic of our species. Therefore, the presence of such engravings among Homo naledi challenges our understanding of what it means to be human and pushes back the timeline for the development of artistic expression in our lineage.
This research opens up a fascinating new chapter in our exploration of human origins and provides a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human creativity and intelligence that has shaped our history.
3: Ancient Human Ancestors: Evidence of Prehistoric Burial Practices
Read the original paper: Evidence for deliberate burial of the dead by Homo naledi
Publisher / Publication: bioRxiv
Authors: Lee R Berger, Tebogo Makhubela, Keneiloe Molopyane, Ashley Kruger, Patrick Randolph-Quinney
Published: June 5th, 2023
Exciting new findings in the Rising Star Cave System of South Africa have shed light on how our ancient human ancestors honoured their dead.
Researchers have unearthed the remains of the extinct hominin species Homo naledi and uncovered evidence of intentional burial practices.
By examining geological and anatomical clues, the researchers have determined that these early hominins dug holes, disrupting the layers of soil, and carefully interred the remains of H. naledi individuals.
Astonishingly, these interments date back further in time than any previous discoveries of Homo sapiens burials, leading scientists to speculate on the diversity and complexity of early mortuary practices.
The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated. It challenges the notion that only modern humans with their larger brains engaged in burial rituals, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural lives and profound reverence for the deceased held by our distant ancestors.
These findings remind us that we share a common thread with our ancient kin, demonstrating that mortuary practices were not a unique hallmark of Homo sapiens, but an integral part of human history.
As college students, we can connect with this research by reflecting on our own experiences with funerals and memorial services. Just as we gather to commemorate and honour our loved ones, it appears that our Homo naledi relatives also partook in similar rituals thousands of years ago.
These burial practices offer a fascinating window into the beliefs, emotions, and social structures of these early humans.
Such insights enhance our understanding of the complexity and depth of human cultures throughout the ages.
By venturing beyond the boundaries of our own species, this research encourages us to take a broader, more inclusive perspective on what it means to be human.
It reminds us that our history is interconnected, and that even our ancient ancestors shared fundamental aspects of our humanity.
So, as we ponder the mysteries of the past, let us remember that even in death, our long-lost relatives found ways to honour and remember those who came before.
4: How Common Is Natural Conception After Assisted Reproductive Technology?
Read the original paper: How common is natural conception in women who have had a livebirth via assisted reproductive technology? Systematic review and meta-analysis
Publisher / Publication: Oxford University Press
Authors: Annette Thwaites, Jennifer Hall, Geraldine Barrett, Judith Stephenson
Published: June 20th, 2023
Are you curious about the likelihood of conceiving naturally after using assisted reproductive technology (ART) to have a live birth?
Researchers conducted a thorough analysis to provide some answers. It is widely recognised that some women who undergo ART go on to conceive naturally, even though this phenomenon is often referred to as "miracle" pregnancies in the media.
To investigate this further, the researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of relevant studies.
They searched through databases and identified 54 studies that met their criteria, including a total of 5,180 women.
Despite variations in study methodology, population, and length of follow-up, the analysis revealed that approximately one in five women (or 20%) who had a baby through ART were able to conceive naturally afterward.
These findings challenge the misconception that natural conception after ART is rare.
However, it's important to note that the studies had limitations, such as potential bias and missing data, which could affect the accuracy of the results.
To obtain more precise estimates and understand associated factors and trends over time, the researchers suggest that national data-linked studies are necessary.
This research has significant implications for couples considering further ART, as it highlights the need for tailored counselling based on more accurate data.
In conclusion, this research sheds light on the prevalence of natural conception following ART-assisted live births.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not uncommon for women to conceive naturally after ART, and further studies are needed to provide more accurate estimates and insights into this subject.
5: Major Genetic Risk Factors for Dupuytren's Disease Link to Our Ancient Neanderthal Relatives
Read the original paper: Major Genetic Risk Factors for Dupuytren's Disease Are Inherited From Neandertals
Publisher / Publication: Oxford University Press
Authors: Richard Ågren, Snehal Patil, Xiang Zhou, Kristoffer Sahlholm, Svante Pääbo
Published: June 14th, 2023
Do you know anyone who has fingers permanently bent in a flexed position? This condition, known as Dupuytren's disease, affects a significant number of older men in northern Europe.
Surprisingly, people of African ancestry are rarely affected by this condition.
Scientists have been investigating this puzzling phenomenon, and their research has uncovered some fascinating insights.
In a recent study, researchers examined the DNA of thousands of individuals with Dupuytren's disease and compared it to a large group of healthy individuals.
Through this analysis, they identified 61 specific genetic variants that are strongly associated with the disease.
What's even more intriguing is that three of these variants can be traced back to our ancient Neanderthal relatives, who lived thousands of years ago!
One of these Neanderthal-derived variants, in particular, stood out as the most significant.
The researchers discovered that this variant is linked to a specific gene called EPDR1, which is believed to play a key role in the development of Dupuytren's disease.
This breakthrough discovery provides valuable insight into the origins of the condition and sheds light on the differences in disease prevalence among different populations.
While Dupuytren's disease is more common in northern Europe, its rarity among individuals of African descent suggests that genetic factors inherited from our ancient Neanderthal relatives may be responsible for this regional variation.
Understanding the genetic basis of diseases like Dupuytren's can have broader implications for healthcare and further our knowledge of human evolution.
By unraveling the connections between our genetic heritage and specific medical conditions, scientists can pave the way for more targeted treatments and interventions in the future.
This research highlights the fascinating ways in which ancient humans, like Neanderthals, continue to influence our health today.
It reminds us that our genetic history has a profound impact on our present-day experiences and health outcomes.
Through scientific exploration, we gain a deeper understanding of our ancient roots and the complexities of being human.
6: Burials and Engravings in the Small-Brained Hominin Homo naledi: Unveiling Ancient Rituals and Challenging Evolutionary Assumptions
Read the original paper: Burials and engravings in a small-brained hominin, Homo naledi, from the late Pleistocene: contexts and evolutionary implications
Publisher / Publication: bioRxiv
Authors: Agustin Fuentes, March Kissel, Penny Spikins, Keneiloe Molopyane, John Hawks
Published: June 5th, 2023
Picture this: a group of researchers uncovering evidence of burial practices in our ancient human ancestors.
Wait, did you think only modern humans had mortuary rituals? Think again!
Recent findings in the Dinaledi caves bring to light intriguing discoveries about Homo naledi, a small-brained hominin that lived during the late Pleistocene period.
In these subterranean spaces, the researchers stumbled upon the earliest examples of multiple interments and funerary actions by Homo naledi.
This mind-boggling evidence challenges long-held ideas about the development of cognitive abilities and behaviours in our ancestors. It turns out that the creation of meaning and the practice of burial rituals are not exclusive to species with big brains.
These findings not only push back the timeline for the origins of mortuary and funerary behaviours but also shed light on the diversity of our ancestors' socio-cognitive niche.
Before this discovery, it was commonly assumed that technological and cognitive advances were solely linked to the evolution of larger brains. However, the association of these activities with a small-brained species introduces a whole new perspective.
Imagine the implications! Our understanding of human evolution and the role of encephalisation might not be as straightforward as we once believed.
If Homo naledi, with its modest brain, could engage in such meaningful activities, perhaps our ancestors' socio-cognitive capabilities were more varied than we ever imagined.
So, what does this mean for you, a curious college student? It means that the intricate tapestry of human history is still unraveling, challenging us to question what we thought we knew.
These findings remind us that even with our limited knowledge, we possess the ability to unravel the mysteries of our distant past.
The ancient rituals and engravings of Homo naledi bring us closer to understanding our shared humanity and the complexity of our ancestors' lives.
They beckon us to explore further, to dig deeper, and to embrace the ever-present quest for knowledge about our origins.
7: New Millipede Species Discovered in Southern California: Shedding Light on the Hidden World beneath Our Feet
Read the original paper: A new species of Illacme from southern California ( Siphonophorida , Siphonorhinidae )
Publisher / Publication: ZooKeys
Authors: Paul E. Marek, Charity L. Hall, Cedric Lee, James Bailey, Matt C. Berger
Published: June 21st, 2023
Have you ever wondered what lies beneath the soil, hidden from our view? It turns out, there is a whole world of millipedes living in the deep soil that we know very little about.
These small and threadlike creatures are slow-moving, lack pigmentation, and rarely cross our paths due to their secretive underground lifestyle.
In particular, the Siphonorhinidae family, which includes four genera and 12 species, has a scattered distribution across California, southern Africa, Madagascar, the Malay Archipelago, and Indo-Burma.
In the Western Hemisphere, we have only discovered one genus of this unique family called Illacme, found in California.
The researchers have recently identified a new species within this family, known as Illacme socal, thriving in the soil microhabitats of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
This remarkable discovery, along with the documentation of other remarkable millipede species, shines a light on the untapped potential of these mysterious subterranean creatures.
However, the researchers also highlight a pressing concern.
As human settlement expands and natural habitats are lost, these millipedes and their subterranean companions face a growing threat.
Ensuring the survival and conservation of Illacme socal and its fellow subterranean fauna must become a priority, enabling us to better understand and appreciate the profound biodiversity that exists beneath our feet.
By exploring this hidden frontier, we can uncover an entirely new realm of biodiversity that has remained largely unexplored and under-appreciated.
From studying these elusive creatures, we can gain valuable insights into their adaptations, behaviours, and ecological roles. Moreover, we can become more aware of the potential consequences of human activities on these delicate subterranean ecosystems.
In the pursuit of knowledge, the researchers urge us to recognise the importance of preserving these subterranean habitats, which act as a natural laboratory for understanding the intricate web of life beneath the soil.
Embracing a conservation mindset can help protect Illacme socal and its fellow subterranean species, fostering a deeper appreciation for the hidden wonders that exist within our own backyard.
8: Does Coffee Actually Make You More Alert? A Neurobiological Perspective
Read the original paper: Coffee consumption decreases the connectivity of the posterior Default Mode Network (DMN) at rest
Publisher / Publication: Frontiers
Authors: Maria Picó-Pérez, Ricardo Magalhães, Madalena Esteves, Rita Vieira, Teresa C. Castanho
Published: June 28th, 2023
If you're one of the many coffee enthusiasts who rely on a cup of joe to kickstart your day, you've probably heard claims about increased alertness, improved motor skills, and sharper thinking. But have you ever wondered if there's any truth to these claims?
Well, researchers have taken a dive into the world of coffee consumption and its effects on our brains.
Using a cutting-edge approach called functional connectivity, the researchers analysed the brain activity of habitual coffee drinkers during periods of rest.
What they found was quite fascinating.
It turns out that coffee consumption actually has an impact on the way different regions of our brain communicate with each other.
The study revealed that connectivity within a network called the posterior Default Mode Network (DMN) decreased after consuming coffee. This network is responsible for our mind-wandering and daydreaming moments. In other words, coffee seems to make it harder for our brains to drift off into those random thoughts that often occur during idle moments.
Interestingly, the researchers also discovered that coffee seemed to boost connectivity between the somatosensory/motor networks (responsible for physical sensations and movement) and the prefrontal cortex (involved in decision-making and cognitive control).
This could explain why coffee drinkers often experience heightened motor skills and increased efficiency when performing tasks.
When it came to specific brain areas, the researchers noted that coffee intake increased connectivity in nodes of the higher visual network (linked to visual processing) and the right executive control network (involved in impulse control and attention).
These findings suggest that coffee may have a positive influence on our visual perception and ability to stay focused.
It's worth mentioning that the researchers also examined the impact of caffeine alone on the brain. Surprisingly, they found that the changes in connectivity within the posterior DMN were only replicated when coffee was consumed, highlighting the unique neurochemical effects of coffee beyond just its caffeine content.
So, next time you reach for that cup of coffee in the morning, remember that there's more going on in your brain than just a caffeine kick.
Coffee seems to affect the way different brain regions interact with each other, potentially shaping our cognitive experiences and abilities.
Who knew that your morning ritual could be so intriguing from a neurobiological standpoint?
9: Unlocking the Secrets of Early Human Development: Creating a Human Embryo Model in the Lab
Read the original paper: Transgene-Free Ex Utero Derivation of A Human Post-Implantation Embryo Model Solely from Genetically Unmodified Naive PSCs
Publisher / Publication: bioRxiv
Authors: Bernardo Oldak, Emilie Wildschutz, Vladyslav Bondarenko, Alejandro Aguilera-Castrejon, Cheng Zhao
Published: June 15th, 2023
Studying the earliest stages of human development has always posed ethical and technical challenges.
Researchers have made remarkable progress in creating models of human embryos in the lab, but these models have been limited in their ability to replicate all the key tissues and structures that form during post-implantation development.
However, a groundbreaking study using genetically unmodified human stem cells has now successfully created a comprehensive model that closely mimics the early stages of human development.
Using a technique previously developed in mice, the researchers have managed to generate a model that includes not only the embryonic tissues but also the extra-embryonic structures essential for development.
By avoiding genetic modifications and by adapting the method for human cells, the researchers have produced a stem cell-based model that accurately represents the organisation of early human embryos.
Through this unique model, the researchers have been able to observe the formation of important structures such as the bilaminar disk, the amniotic cavity, and the connective stalk.
Additionally, the model replicates key processes including the specification of primordial germ cells and the formation of the primary and secondary yolk sacs.
This new platform, developed by the researchers, provides an unprecedented opportunity to investigate the intricate processes that occur during early human development.
By recreating previously inaccessible stages of development, this model opens the door to a deeper understanding of human embryogenesis.
By unlocking the secrets of early human development, this research has the potential to contribute to breakthroughs in reproductive medicine and regenerative therapies.
Furthermore, it offers a unique tool for studying the effects of environmental factors on embryonic development and for testing the safety and efficacy of new drugs.
The creation of this comprehensive human embryo model brings us one step closer to unravelling the mysteries of life's earliest stages, ultimately benefiting both science and society.
10: Understanding How Space Travel Affects our Immune System: Insights from Astronaut Blood Cells
Read the original paper: The transcriptome response of astronaut leukocytes to long missions aboard the International Space Station reveals immune modulation
Publisher / Publication: Frontiers
Authors: Daniel Stratis, Guy Trudel, Lynda Rocheleau, Martin Pelchat, Odette Laneuville
Published: June 22nd, 2023
A new study conducted by researchers has provided valuable insights into the effects of space travel on the immune system.
Spaceflight has been known to cause various changes in the body, and this study specifically examined how long-duration missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS) impact the immune system at a molecular level.
To understand these effects, the researchers collected and analysed blood samples from 14 male and female astronauts throughout different stages of their space missions.
They used RNA sequencing to measure gene expression in the astronauts' white blood cells, and employed advanced statistical techniques to identify changes in gene activity over time.
The analysis revealed two distinct patterns in gene expression: one showing a decrease followed by an increase, and the other showing an increase followed by a decrease. These patterns were observed as the astronauts transitioned to and from space.
Interestingly, these patterns eventually converged towards average gene expression levels after approximately 2 to 6 months in space.
Further examination of the gene expression changes during space travel showed that certain genes were consistently down-regulated upon reaching space and up-regulated upon returning to Earth. This suggests that entering space triggers immune suppression, while returning to Earth leads to immune reactivation.
The researchers also explored how specific biological processes were affected during these transitions. They found that entering space resulted in increased cell housekeeping functions and reduced cell proliferation, indicating immune suppression. On the other hand, returning to Earth corresponded with immune reactivation.
These findings provide important insights into the immune modulation that occurs during space travel and shed light on the remarkable adaptive changes our cells undergo to cope with extreme environments.
By better understanding how space affects our immune system, we can develop strategies to mitigate the risks associated with extended space missions.
This research brings us one step closer to safely exploring the vast unknowns of space.
11: Safety and Effectiveness of a Single-Shot Chikungunya Vaccine: A Breakthrough in Protecting Against a Debilitating Virus
Read the original paper: Safety and immunogenicity of a single-shot live-attenuated chikungunya vaccine: a double-blind, multicentre, randomised, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial
Publisher / Publication: The Lancet
Authors: Martina Schneider, Marivic Narciso-Abraham, Sandra Hadl, Robert McMahon, Sebastian Toepfer
Published: June 24th, 2023
Imagine a world where a single vaccine can shield you from the devastating effects of chikungunya virus. That future is now within reach, as a group of researchers has conducted a groundbreaking study on the safety and effectiveness of a live-attenuated chikungunya vaccine.
The study, conducted across 43 reputable vaccine trial sites in the USA, engaged healthy volunteers aged 18 and above.
Participants were carefully selected, ensuring exclusion of individuals with a history of chikungunya virus infection, immune-mediated or chronic arthritis, or recent administration of inactivated or live vaccines.
A total of 4,128 participants were enrolled in this double-blind, multi-centre, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Out of this number, 3,093 received the life-changing vaccine, while 1,035 were given a placebo. Throughout the trial, the dedicated researchers meticulously monitored safety and immune response data up to six months after vaccination.
The ultimate goal was to determine the proportion of participants who, after just one shot of the vaccine, exhibited a significant antibody response against chikungunya virus. The antibody level was assessed by a sophisticated micro plaque reduction neutralisation test.
Remarkably, the results showed that a staggering 98.9% of participants who received the vaccine developed seroprotective chikungunya virus neutralising antibodies. This clearly demonstrates the vaccine's potential to provide robust protection against the virus.
Safety analyses were performed on all recipients of the vaccine, showcasing the researchers' unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being of participants. Moreover, immunogenicity analyses were carried out on a subset of participants, meticulously selected based on their adherence to the study's guidelines.
This groundbreaking research is a significant stride towards alleviating the burden imposed by chikungunya virus, a severe illness characterised by debilitating joint pain. With further advancements, this breakthrough vaccine could revolutionise our ability to prevent and combat this disease, sparing countless individuals from its grip.
As we eagerly await the next steps, let us acknowledge the tremendous efforts invested by these dedicated scientists. Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding our health motivates us to envision a brighter future, free from the fear and suffering caused by chikungunya virus.
12: The Decline of Insects in Farmland: An Alarming Trend
Read the original paper: Invertebrate biodiversity continues to decline in cropland
Publisher / Publication: Royal Society
Authors: Francesca Mancini, Rob Cooke, Ben A. Woodcock, Arran Greenop, Andrew C. Johnson
Published: June 7th, 2023
Modern agricultural practices have significantly transformed our landscapes and put immense pressure on wildlife populations.
Over the past three decades, agricultural systems have seen changes in policies and management approaches, with a growing focus on sustainability.
It is of utmost importance to comprehend the long-term consequences of agriculture on the well-being of beneficial insects, and ascertain whether the recently introduced policies and management practices are aiding in their recovery.
In this study, researchers have analysed extensive datasets collected by citizen scientists to reveal the trends in insect population in Great Britain from 1990 to 2019.
The analysis compares these trends across regions with varying levels of cropland cover: no cropland, low cropland (0-50% cover), and high cropland (over 50% cover), which includes arable and horticultural crops. While overall declines in insect populations have been observed, the most significant declines are found in regions with high cropland cover. This suggests that despite improvements in policy and management over the last three decades, our approach to managing cropland is failing to protect and restore insect communities.
These findings highlight the urgency to implement new policy-based drivers and incentives that promote the resilience and sustainability of agricultural ecosystems.
With the recent changes in UK agricultural policy post-Brexit and the reforms under the Environment Act, there exists an opportunity to enhance agricultural landscapes for the benefit of both biodiversity and society.
As college students, we may not immediately connect with the intricacies of agricultural systems, but this research brings to light a critical issue that affects us all.
Insects, often overlooked and undervalued, play an integral role in our ecosystems. They are responsible for pollinating crops that provide us with food, help in natural pest control, and contribute to the overall health and balance of our environment.
It is essential that we acknowledge the impact of agricultural practices on insect populations and recognise the need for sustainable approaches that safeguard their habitats.
Understanding the decline of insects in farmland serves as a reminder that the decisions we make regarding our food system have far-reaching consequences.
By supporting policies and practices that prioritise the well-being of not only insects but also the broader biodiversity, we can create a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.
13: What Impact Have BMI Policies Had on Hip Replacement Surgery?
Read the original paper: What effect have commissioners’ policies for body mass index had on hip replacement surgery?: an interrupted time series analysis from the National Joint Registry for England
Publisher / Publication: BMC Medicine
Authors: Joanna McLaughlin, Ruth Kipping, Amanda Owen-Smith, Hugh McLeod, Samuel Hawley
Published: June 13th, 2023
Have you ever wondered how policies regarding body mass index (BMI) affect access to hip replacement surgery? Well, a group of researchers in England conducted a study to find out. They wanted to understand the impact of BMI policies on access to hip replacement surgery and whether these policies contribute to health inequalities.
Using data from the National Joint Registry, the researchers analysed information from over 480,000 patients who underwent primary hip replacement surgery between January 2009 and December 2019. They focused on policies introduced by local healthcare commissioners to alter access to surgery based on BMI.
The study used an interrupted time series analysis and difference-in-differences approach to examine changes in surgery rates and patient demographics over time.
Interestingly, the researchers found that areas that implemented BMI policies initially had higher surgery rates compared to those without such policies. However, after policy implementation, surgery rates in those areas decreased, while rates in areas without policies increased.
The researchers also discovered that "strict" policies involving a BMI threshold for surgery led to the largest decrease in surgery rates.
Furthermore, the study revealed that localities with BMI policies had a higher proportion of independently funded surgeries.
This suggests increasing health inequalities, as more affluent patients were receiving surgery. Policies that enforced longer waiting times before surgery were associated with worsening pre-operative symptom scores and rising obesity rates.
In light of these findings, the researchers recommend that BMI policies involving extra waiting time or mandatory BMI thresholds should no longer be implemented to limit access to hip replacement surgery. They emphasise the importance of considering patient outcomes and addressing health inequalities when making policy decisions.
This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and commissioners, highlighting the counterproductive effects of BMI policies on patient outcomes and inequalities. It prompts us to reconsider the use of such policies and advocate for better approaches to ensure fair and equal access to hip replacement surgery.
That’s it for this month.
Thanks for reading.
See you next month.
Claudia Brady.