The Open University

Wooden cross in a graveyard. Image credit: Thinkstock

The complex issues of death and dying

10 May 2016

The only certainty in life is death. Visiting academic in Health and Social Care, Carol Komaromy, researched the complex issues of death and dying, covering topics like the place of grief in society and how people cope with death depending on their gender or profession. To mark Dying Matters Awareness Week, from 9th to 15th May, […]

Q&A: Does fertility treatment affect breast cancer risk?

13 April 2016

One in eight UK women get breast cancer at some point in their lives. A study out today explores whether there are links between fertility treatments and what can be seen on a breast screening mammogram, and hence possibly to breast cancer risks. The researchers used data from over 43,000 Swedish women who had had […]

What is brain plasticity and why is it so important?

5 April 2016

What makes the brain special is that, unlike a computer, it processes sensory and motor signals in parallel. It has many neural pathways that can replicate another’s function so that small errors in development or temporary loss of function through damage can be easily corrected by rerouting signals along a different pathway. The problem becomes […]

If we are not rich can we still be happy? OU academic investigates

17 March 2016

Rich beyond your wildest dreams, but does that make you happy? Professor Paul Anand argues that it is factors other than simply wealth which determine your happiness levels and to mark World Happiness Day this weekend he introduces the measurement concept and the value of flourishing. The latest findings of the World Happiness Report, were […]

People with learning disabilities want to find love too

12 February 2016

This Valentine’s Day will once again see a celebration of love. Unfortunately for many people with learning disabilities, this is just a dream. Although they may want to be in a relationship, they are often faced with barriers and challenges that prevent them finding what many take for granted. But specialised dating agencies can help […]

Why assisted suicide is a ‘moral maze’

11 February 2016

Dr Sam Murphy, Lecturer in health studies and Interim Assistant Head of Department, in the Faculty of Health and Social Care writes on the controversial subject of assisted suicide… The recent BBC programme How to Die: Simon’s Choice brought to the fore the dilemmas that arise following a diagnosis of a terminal illness such as […]

New guidance challenges myths on sex and relationships for young people with limited lifespans

2 December 2015

Assistance for supporting young people with life-threatening or life-limiting conditions who want to explore their sexuality and develop relationships is offered to practitioners in a new comprehensive OU-published guide in partnership with the charity Together for Short Lives. The publication, launched this week, gives guidance and standards for health, social care and education practitioners who […]

Will Davis Cup victory spur on a new generation of British tennis stars?

1 December 2015

After a 79-year wait, Great Britain’s Davis Cup win was an emotional day for the country’s tennis fans, players and, in particular, Andy Murray. Having won all eight of his singles matches in the tournament – a record that matches the likes of John McEnroe and Mats Wilander – he was instrumental in ensuring victory. […]

AIDS Awareness Red Ribbon. Image credit: Thinkstock

Charlie Sheen, Rock Hudson and the changing face of HIV stigma

24 November 2015

Charlie Sheen’s recent disclosure that he is HIV positive echoes a similar announcement made by another movie star, Rock Hudson 30 years ago – and it’s interesting to compare the two cases. Both tried unsuccessfully to conceal their HIV status. Hudson was betrayed by his appearance: he was visibly unwell and his disclosure came just […]

Pioneering Alzheimer’s research could help find new treatments

21 October 2015

A leading dementia researcher at the OU has secured nearly £370k of funding from Alzheimer’s Research UK for a ground-breaking new research project which may pave the way for new treatments. Dr Cheryl Hawkes and her team are studying how a protein called amyloid is cleared from blood vessels in the brain and how this […]

OU News

Category: Health