BMJ  2006;332:566 (11 March), doi:10.1136/bmj.332.7541.566

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In brief

Stroke patients' satisfaction with aftercare declines over time: A survey of 850 stroke patients by the UK Healthcare Commission has found that the number of patients rating their aftercare as excellent or good dropped by more than 20% a year after discharge. See www.healthcommission.org.uk.

Single distribution of antibiotics fails to treat trachoma: Treating trachoma with a single mass distribution of antibiotic in areas with a high prevalence of infection is not effective in eliminating the disease, says a study of Ethiopian communities. "A single treatment will not suffice," said the authors. Current World Health Organization guidelines recommend three mass distributions a year. (JAMA 2006;295: 1142-6[Abstract/Free Full Text]).

Heart disease is linked to air pollutants: Outdoor air pollutants are probably linked to increasing numbers of deaths and hospital admissions for cardiovascular related diseases in the UK, says a report by the Committee on Medical Effects of Air Pollution. See www.advisorybody.doh.gov.uk/comeap/expertreview.htm.

Experts recommend more screening for MRSA: A group of leading Scottish specialists in infection control has recommended that most patients entering Scottish hospitals should be assessed for the risk of carrying methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. See www.rcpe.ac.uk.

Dakota bans most abortions: The US state of Dakota has approved a law making it illegal for doctors to perform abortions in most situations, including after rape or incest. Exceptions will be made if a woman's life is at risk.

Woman loses fight to use frozen embryos: Natallie Evans, from Wiltshire, who was left infertile after treatment for cancer, has been told by the European Court of Human Rights that she cannot use her frozen embryos to have a baby. Her partner withdrew his consent for the embryos to be used when the couple split up.

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