Latest news with #NHS24
The National
7 days ago
- Health
- The National
Dog bites four times more likely in deprives areas finds study
Conducted by the Social Science and Natural Science departments of the University of Stirling, researchers say the findings should be a wake-up call for policymakers at a time of rising incidents of dog bites and strikes (DBS). They suggest that prevention strategies should focus more on addressing social inequities rather than criminalisation. Lead author Dr Jade Hooper of the University of Stirling's Social Science faculty said 'The significant social inequalities we uncovered are worrying. The implications are particularly strong for Scotland, which has among the most pronounced health inequalities in the UK and Western Europe. 'This study should be a wake-up call for policymakers and we urge a fundamental shift in public health strategy surrounding dog bites and strikes. 'It's important that we recognise the wider pressures families may be facing, including financial stress, limited access to behavioural advice and support, and the challenge of safely managing dogs and children in busy households, particularly where adults may be juggling multiple responsibilities. 'Multiple agencies need to come together, across local government, police, health services and animal welfare organisations, and prevention measures should be compassion-focused and family-centred, involving professionals such as social workers, health visitors and schools.' The research findings show that the number of emergency hospital admissions due to dog bites in Scotland almost quadrupled between 1997/98 and 2023/24, with 300 and 1,105 admissions respectively, according to Public Health Scotland. The study comprises data from 59,111 NHS Scotland health records including NHS 24, hospital admission and Accident and Emergency (A&E) Data between 2007 and 2019. It study also includes data from the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation, which measures area-based deprivation in Scotland using data on income, employment, health, education, access to services, crime and housing. DBS can mean either dog bites or strikes. Strikes are classed as non-dog bite related injuries such as being pulled, knocked over or scratched by a dog. Among the highest rates of incidents were local authorities with a higher proportion of deprived areas, such as West Dunbartonshire, North Ayrshire and Glasgow City. However, the researchers note that even local authorities not generally seen as deprived can contain smaller pockets of deprivation where additional support may be needed. The rate of DBS was highest among children aged one to nine, and the most common place for dog bite incidents to take place was in the home, according to the study. Rates for children remained relatively stable over the 13 years, while rates for adults increased. The study found a rise in A&E attendances and hospital admissions, while the rates of NHS 24 calls remained relatively stable. There was a clear social gradient across all three health datasets, with income, employment, health and education found to be the driving socio-economic factors for DBS incidents in Scotland. The rate of hospital admissions was 3.9 times higher for individuals living in the most deprived areas, compared to the least deprived; the rate of NHS 24 calls was 2.5 times higher; and A&E attendances were 2.4 times higher. There was variation in rates of incidents depending on the type of health records. Midlothian came top for NHS 24 calls, West Lothian showed the highest rates for hospital admission records related to DBS, while West Dunbartonshire showed the most A&E attendances. Researchers pointed out, however, that surges in data could be partly due to improvements in data collection over the 13 years, particularly in certain health boards.
STV News
11-07-2025
- Health
- STV News
Revellers urged to be vigilant for drink spiking over festival season
The Scottish Government has partnered with the NHS to warn Scots to be vigilant of the dangers of drink spiking over the summer period. Victims and community safety minister Siobhian Brown has urged those socialising over the summer and festival period to look out for the signs of spiking, which include memory loss, loss of balance, confusion, paranoia, and hallucinations. Meanwhile, the NHS will log potential victims of spiking who report to A&E. Brown said: 'We are aware of the concern in spiking cases that the link between health professionals and Police Scotland has not always been clear to victims 'We are therefore introducing changes to the NHS system which will allow us to record those who present to A&E as potential victims of spiking. This will provide invaluable data on previous unrecorded incidents and will allow us to better understand the extent to which these lead on to formal police reporting. 'We remain committed to raising awareness of and addressing issues around spiking, and urge everyone to remain vigilant and stay safe as they enjoy the summer and festival period.' It comes as TRNSMT got underway on Friday, with the Edinburgh Fringe kicking off next month. Safer Scotland's tips to keep safe from spiking include: Never leave a drink unattended, whether it is alcoholic or not Never accept a drink from someone unknown Don't drink or taste anyone else's drink Throw a drink away or take it back to the bar if it tastes strange or different Avoid drinking or taking substances which impact safety and wellbeing Always stick together with friends and look out for each other, even when within smaller social gatherings. If leaving a venue early or going home alone make sure friends are aware and there is a plan for getting home safely 'Recognising the signs of spiking is crucial, as the signs can appear rapidly', Dr Julie Ronald, associate medical director at NHS 24 said. 'Common symptoms can include sudden dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, and loss of consciousness. 'If you suspect you or someone else has been spiked, stay with a trusted friend and seek immediate help. It's important to alert venue staff and seek medical help right away. Call NHS 24 on 111 for advice, but in a life-threatening emergency remember to always call 999.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Glasgow Times
08-07-2025
- Climate
- Glasgow Times
NHS 24 issues sun safety advice during warm spell
The forecast indicates sunny skies across most of the country. Dr Siama Latif, associate medical director at NHS 24, said: "It's wonderful to enjoy the sunshine, but we want everyone to remember that staying out for too long can cause problems. Dr Siama Latif (Image: Supplied) "Sunburn, blisters, and peeling skin are all unpleasant and even painful in the short term, but you should also be mindful of the long-term complications such as skin cancer." With this in mind, NHS 24 has provided sun safety tips, including wearing sun protection when outside, seeking shade, staying well-hydrated, and checking on those who may be vulnerable to the sun's rays. Read more: Glasgow community gathers for touching floral tribute remembering lost loved ones Dr Latif said: "Our advice is to make sure you cover up and stay in the shade when the sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm. "Wear loose, cool clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and neck. "If you do need to be out and about, make sure you slather on plenty of sun cream. (Image: Supplied) "Don't be stingy, use enough to completely cover any exposed skin. "We recommend a minimum SPF of 30 to guard against harmful UV rays." She also emphasised the importance of hydration during warm weather. Dr Latif said: "It's also crucial to stay hydrated when the temperature rises. "Drink lots of water, and maybe some diluted juice, to prevent dehydration or heatstroke. "Ice lollies or ice poles are a fun way to keep the younger members of the family cool too." She also urged the public to keep an eye on those who are particularly vulnerable in the heat. She said: "Small children and babies can quickly become overheated, so ensure they're dressed appropriately and kept out of direct sunlight. "The elderly and those with long-term medical conditions can also be more susceptible to heat-related issues, so check on them too to make sure they're comfortable and staying cool and hydrated."
Daily Record
08-07-2025
- Climate
- Daily Record
NHS 24 reminding public to take necessary precautions to stay safe in the sun
With the forecast predicting sunny skies for most of the county, it's important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. As Lanarkshire and West Lothian basks in a spell of fine, dry, and settled weather, NHS 24 is reminding the public to take necessary precautions to stay safe in the sun. With the forecast predicting sunny skies for most of the county, it's important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Dr Siama Latif, associate medical director at NHS 24, explained: "It's wonderful to enjoy the sunshine, but we want everyone to remember that staying out for too long can cause problems. "Sunburn, blisters, and peeling skin are all unpleasant and even painful in the short-term, but you should also be mindful of the long-term complications such as skin cancer. "Make the most of the good weather, but stay safe." NHS 24's sun safety tips including making sure you are wearing sun protection when outside, seeking shade, staying hydrated, and checking in on those who may be vulnerable to the sun's rays. "Our advice is to make sure you cover up and stay in the shade when the sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm. Wear loose cool clothing, sunglasses, and a wide brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and neck," said Dr Latif. "If you do need to be out and about, make sure you slather on plenty of sun cream. "Don't be stingy, use enough to completely cover any exposed skin. We recommend a minimum SPF of 30 to guard against harmful UV rays." Dr Latif added: "It's also crucial to stay hydrated when the temperature rises. "Drink lots of water, and maybe some diluted juice, to prevent dehydration or heatstroke. "Ice lollies or ice poles are a fun way to keep the younger members of the family cool too. "Lastly, keep a watchful eye on those who are particularly vulnerable in the heat. "Small children and babies can quickly become overheated, so ensure they're dressed appropriately and kept out of direct sunlight. "The elderly and those with long-term medical conditions can also be more susceptible to heat-related issues, so check on them too to make sure they're comfortable and staying cool and hydrated." For more information on sun safety and advice and how to deal with heat-related health conditions such as sunburn, visit NHS 24's summer campaign page. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Scotsman
07-07-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
The areas in Scotland where people are far more at risk from dog attacks
Experts say data should act as 'wake up call' Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... People living in deprived areas of Scotland are at a higher risk of being bitten or injured by a dog, a study has revealed. Researchers at the University of Stirling found that incidents of dog bites and strikes are up to four times higher for individuals living in more socially deprived areas compared to those living in the least deprived areas of the country. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The study shows the highest rates of so-called DBS attacks occur in local authorities with a higher proportion of deprived pockets, such as Glasgow, North Ayrshire, and West Dunbartonshire. The team behind the research said the findings should act as a 'wake-up call' for policymakers at a time of rising incidents of dog attacks, and stressed prevention strategies should focus more on addressing social inequities, rather than criminalisation. The researchers scrutinised tens of thousands of NHS records involving injuries from dogs. | PA In the first such study in Scotland, the researchers from the university's faculties of social sciences and natural sciences analysed nearly 60,000 NHS Scotland health records from 2017 and 2019 involving injuries from dogs. The study, which scrutinised data from NHS 24, hospital admissions, and accident-and-emergency (A&E) departments, identified a 'clear social gradient' across all three health datasets. Income, employment, health and education were found to be the 'driving socio-economic factors' for DBS incidents. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The rate of hospital admissions was 3.9 times higher for individuals living in the most deprived areas, compared to the least deprived; the rate of NHS 24 calls was 2.5 times higher; and A&E attendances were 2.4 times higher. The rate of DBS was highest among children aged one to nine. The most common place for dog bite incidents to take place was in the home, according to the study. Rates for children remained relatively stable over the 13 years, while rates for adults increased. Incidences were higher in council regions with greater proportions of deprived areas, such as West Dunbartonshire. Picture: Canva/Getty | Canva/Getty Images The findings come against a backdrop of rising DBS-related hospital admissions. The number of emergency hospital admissions due to dog bites in Scotland almost quadrupled between 1997/98 and 2023/24, with 300 and 1,105 admissions respectively, according to Public Health Scotland. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Dr Jade Hooper, lead author of the study, said: 'The significant social inequities we uncovered are worrying. The implications are particularly strong for Scotland, which has among the most pronounced health inequalities in the UK and western Europe. 'This study should be a wake-up call for policymakers and we urge a fundamental shift in public health strategy surrounding dog bites and strikes. It's important that we recognise the wider pressures families may be facing, including financial stress, limited access to behavioural advice and support, and the challenge of safely managing dogs and children in busy households, particularly where adults may be juggling multiple responsibilities.' She added: 'Multiple agencies need to come together, across local government, police, health services and animal welfare organisations, and prevention measures should be compassion-focused and family-centred, involving professionals such as social workers, health visitors and schools.'
