Harcombe et al have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that would have been available to the regulatory committees in the USA and the UK when guidelines on dietary fat intake were introduced (in 1977 and 1983, respectively). They found no evidence from RCTs to support the introduction of these guidelines, which leads the authors to question whether they should ever have been introduced in the first place. (Editorial)

The Indian Government's draft national health policy, which many experts view as a step away from universal health coverage, is out for public consultation. Dinesh C Sharma reports.

Original Source

Influenza vaccines have been used for >60 years and have proven safe and effective. However, use of seasonal influenza vaccine in South-East Asia is sparse, with the majority of doses available for cost in the private sector. In 2012, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) recommended annual influenza vaccination for five high-risk groups: pregnant women, the elderly, persons with a chronic illness, young children, and healthcare personnel.

In India, the 1971 Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, while allowing abortions under a broad range of circumstances, can be considered a conservative law from a feminist perspective. The Act allows healthcare providers rather than women seeking abortion to have the final say on abortion, and creates an environment wi