International health news

The first ever Golisano Global Health Leadership Awards have been distributed, honouring seven healthcare organisations and professionals around the world. The awards were set up by the Golisano Foundation and Special Olympics to commend those working to provide healthcare for people with intellectual disabilities.

A lack of clarity surrounding the US-Australia refugee deal is having alarming psychological effects on current refugees. It has been revealed that around 21% of asylum seekers in Nauru and 16% on Manus Island are on antidepressants. There have also been several reports of suicide attempts, from children as young as thirteen.

Country updates

The World Happiness Report 2017 has announced that Norway is the happiest place in the world. The study analyses a variety of factors, including economic strength, life expectancy and freedom of choice, in 155 countries around the world.

According to a survey conducted for the Jo Cox commission, nearly 75% of older people in the UK are lonely. What’s more, over half of the respondents stated that they had never spoken to anyone about feeling lonely.

In an effort to segregate hospital care and solve demographic imbalance, officials have put forward plans to increase expat healthcare fees in Kuwait. The plan is joined by proposals to enforce the deportation of expat employees from companies once projects have been completed.

Health advice

A recent study by the Consensus Action on Salt and Health (CASH) revealed that almost all processed foods fail to meet salt-reduction targets. The research showed that even sweet products like hot chocolate and cereal contain a high amount of salt. Current recommendations advise a maximum intake of 6g (one teaspoon) of salt a day.

Mixing alcohol with energy drinks can increase the risk of injuries on a night out. Research conducted at the University of Victoria, Canada found that the highly-caffeinated drinks mask the feeling of tiredness induced by alcohol, leading many to stay out longer, drink more, and put themselves at greater risk of injuries and accidents.