Cutting edge

Article Abstract:

Health professionals are not keen to prevent female genital mutilation (FGM), although it is thought that ten thousand girls are at risk. Health professionals do not want to interfere in 'traditional practices', although performing or obtaining female circumcision has been banned since 1985 in the UK. Foundation of Women's Health, Research and Development (FORWARD) believes that social workers and health visitors should counsel families in the community about the health risks and law concerning FGM. Care proceedings should only be initiated as a last resort. FORWARD believes females who have already experienced FGM should be counselled. Although the damage of FGM cannot be reversed, the vaginal opening can be widened by an operation.

Surgery, Ethical aspects, Females, Reproductive organs, Genitalia, Female circumcision

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On the continental shelf

Article Abstract:

Complementary medicine is flourishing in the UK, but faces an uncertain future. The main threat to complementary medicine lies in constant erosion of the availability of natural medicines and supplements. Around 1,400 herbal remedies have been banned so far on the basis of indications that they may be slightly toxic if taken in very large doses. A review by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Foods' Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment has led to many loose herbs being banned for reasons of toxicity. Complementary medicine may not survive unless the general public puts strong pressure on the government.

United Kingdom

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Will two become one?

Article Abstract:

Some areas of conventional medical care in the UK are increasingly accepting the validity of alternative therapies. This move suggests that integrated medical care could be a possibility for the future. The Foundation for Integrated Medicine, initially proposed by the Prince of Wales, has been working to promote this concept. An NHS Confederation study confirmed the increasing use of complementary therapies in the NHS, but a study sponsored by the Department of Health concluded that more integration is unlikely in the near future.

Medicine, Forecasts and trends

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