What's new this month in BMJ Journals

Over the counter emergency contraception reduces A&E workload

The number of patients requesting emergency contraception at the accident and emergency departments of two south London hospitals fell by more than half after a change in legislation permitted women aged over 16 to obtain progestogen-only contraception over the counter at pharmacies. The authors express concern over the high cost (£20 (€28, $34)), limited opening hours of pharmacies, and patients' unawareness of the change in availability.

Emerg Med J 2004;21: 67-8

Melanoma rates are higher in some jobs

Exposing your skin to the sun is not the only risk factor for developing melanoma, according to a nationwide survey of Swedish men followed for 18 years. The risk was greater in those so exposed (in Sweden largely confined to harbour masters …