VITAMINS AND OLDER PEOPLE: A new study has looked at the role of multivitamin and mineral supplements in the prevention of infections in older people.
Researchers found the evidence for protection weak and conflicting. The evidence does not support a policy recommending the routine use of such supplements in all older people, say the authors. They suggest further and more expansive studies in this area of considerable public health importance.
WINNING AT A COST: It is winning, not losing, major sporting events that triggers the risk of violence, suggests new research. Findings based on the numbers of people requiring emergency medical treatment for assault at the time of international rugby and football matches in Cardiff show that, on average, 30 cases of assault required medical attention on the day of a match and the day after.
On days when no match had been played, the average number of assault cases fell to 21. When Wales won its matches, the average number of assault injuries seen was 33; when Wales lost, the average dropped to 25.
A win seemed to boost self confidence, assertiveness and patriotism, all of which may lead to violence.
lifelines@irish-times.ie