Fiona Callingham
England
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Journalism teaching fellow at @portsmouthuni. Ex-journo for Daily Express, The Mirror, and others.
Articles by Fiona Callingham
Little-known leg symptoms may mean high cholesterol
High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, involves having an excess amount of a fatty substance called cholesterol in the blood. Initially, it may seem harmless, but over time, it can heighten the risk of severe health complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol build-up can lead to blocked arteries, which impede proper blood flow and significantly increase the danger of cardiovascular diseases.
Everyone who can get 100% Council Tax discount in UK
Many groups of people may qualify for a 100 per cent reduction on their Council Tax bill. Under Government rules, certain householders are completely exempt from the charge, while others might secure a partial reduction. Council Tax is an annual levy paid to your local authority. The sum is set by your council and helps finance local services. Your Council Tax bill depends on both your location and your property's value. Typically, anyone aged 18 or over must pay Council Tax.
Everyone who can get 100% Council Tax discount in UK
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Air fryer 'never' warning and 30 minute rule you should follow
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Government update to calls to provide free healthcare products for women
The Government has provided an update on calls for it to provide certain healthcare products free of charge. Campaigners had urged the UK Government to supply sanitary products such as pads and tampons for no cost. The petition , entitled "fund free female sanitary products for all women and girls" has, at the time of reporting, garnered more than 19,000 signatures, prompting a written response from the Government.
One in three Brits living with 'silent killer' could be helped by these drinks
One in three adults in the UK could benefit from drinking three drinks. These juices have the potential to lower blood pressure, according to studies. Sometimes known as a "silent killer" because it often has no obvious symptoms, high blood pressure is dangerous it makes the heart work harder to push blood around the body. Over time, that extra pressure can damage blood vessels and vital organs, and has been linked with conditions including heart disease, stroke and dementia.
Three red drinks that could help lower blood pressure
Three red juices could help lower your blood pressure, according to research. These delicious drinks could therefore reduce your risk of serious complications such as heart attacks and strokes High blood pressure is a significant concern across the UK , with approximately one in three adults believed to be affected by the condition. Also known as hypertension, it means the heart must work harder to pump blood around the body.
Three red drinks that could help lower blood pressure
Three red juices could help lower your blood pressure, according to research. These delicious drinks could therefore reduce your risk of serious complications such as heart attacks and strokes. High blood pressure is a significant concern across the UK, with approximately one in three adults believed to be affected by the condition. Also known as hypertension, it means the heart must work harder to pump blood around the body.
Under-50s urged to 'never ignore' 4 symptoms as cancer cases rise
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NHS issues cloudy weather warning
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Dr Amir Khan says five tests will show how 'well you're ageing'
A doctor has shared five simple tests that can tell you how well you're ageing. These can tell you more about your health than what you look like and how many wrinkles you have, he said. In a video uploaded to his Instagram page, Doctor Amir Khan told his followers that he doesn't care about how young you look.
Prof Tim Spector says controversial spread could boost brain health
A daily teaspoon of a controversial spread could "calm" the brain, an expert has claimed. According to Professor Tim Spector, Marmite should be considered a "health food". Prof Spector, an epidemiologist and the founder of Zoe Health, explained that the yeast extract product is packed with protein, B vitamins, and brewer's yeast. In a video recently uploaded to his Instagram, Prof Spector said: "Marmite - do you love it or do you hate it?
Young people told 'never ignore' these toilet symptoms amid rise in cancer cases
Young people are urged to "never ignore" four key symptoms as they are now more likely than ever to die from a specific cancer. Bowel cancer is becoming more and more common in those aged under 50. In the US, bowel cancer - which is also known as colorectal cancer, has become the leading cause of cancer-related death among people younger than 50.
Cancer warning as NHS issues important 'cloudy' weather alert
Sat, 25 July 2026 at 3:30 am UTC The NHS warned of an important step you need to take even on cloudy days -Credit:Getty The NHS has issued an important cancer warning during cloudy weather. According to the health body, you still need to wear sunscreen even if it’s not sunny. This is because you could still be at risk of sunburn, which can develop into skin cancer. In a post made to social media platform X, the NHS said: “Even if it’s cloudy, UV rays can still cause sunburn.
Dr Amir Khan discusses how to prevent hair loss on weight loss jabs
A doctor has discussed ways to minimise the risk of a certain side effect when taking weight loss medications. According to the expert, hair loss is one side effect people who take the medications could experience. Weight loss medications, commonly referred to as GLP-1 inhibitors, function by replicating GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone naturally produced in the gut that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and curbing appetite.
‘I thought my breast milk was coming in - it was actually a sign of stage 3 cancer’
A pregnant mum was “shocked” to discover that she had cancer, after thinking a symptom was actually just her breast milk coming in. Alex Cheshire-Round assumed her hardened breast tissue at 24 weeks was a sign her milk was arriving early. The 29-year-old was expecting her second child when she noticed firmness on her right breast while rolling over in bed in May. She had begun leaking milk at 18 weeks pregnant with her firstborn, Ronnie, now 10 months old, so believed it was occurring again.
Dr Amir Khan shares how to 'reverse' pre-diabetes with 5 ‘powerful’ steps
A doctor has revealed how to “reverse” a potentially dangerous health condition with five steps. According to the expert, these lifestyle changes are “incredibly powerful”. In a video uploaded to his Instagram page, Doctor Amir Khan explained that it is possible to reverse pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than they should be. If you have pre-diabetes, you have a high risk of type 2 diabetes.
Travellers warned as potentially fatal virus confirmed in nine countries
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'I thought my tiredness was from being a working mum - it was actually cancer'
When Laura Jackson first experienced fatigue, she put it down to being a "working mum". The then 38-year-old said she "disregarded" her tiredness to raising a one and three-year-old while holding down a job. But after she was turned away for donating blood due to iron levels, further testing revealed the truth - she had bowel cancer.
Travellers warned as potentially fatal virus confirmed in nine countries
UK travellers have been issued a warning as cases of a potentially fatal virus have been confirmed in nine countries. Figures show that since the beginning of 2026, a total of 95 confirmed cases of yellow fever have been reported around the world. Yellow fever is a serious infection spread by mosquitoes that can prove fatal in some cases. It's typically found in certain areas of Africa and South and Central America.
Dr Amir Khan explains why you might choose weight loss pills over jabs if eligible
A doctor has explained why weight-loss pills might be better than injections for those who are eligible. Doctor Amir Khan discussed some of the differences between GLP-1 medications on a recent episode of his podcast. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring gut hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite.
Urgent cancer warning as NHS says 'don't put it off'
Wed, 22 July 2026 at 10:26 am UTC The NHS urged people to not "put off" doing one thing -Credit:Getty The NHS has issued an urgent cancer warning, telling people “don’t put it off”. Following this advice could help catch one of the UK’s deadliest cancers sooner rather than later. In a message posted to social media platform X, the NHS urged people to use a bowel cancer screening kit when it is sent out to them.
Dr Amir Khan on why weight loss pills might suit eligible better than jabs
A doctor has outlined why weight-loss tablets might be preferable to injections for those eligible. Dr Amir Khan explored some of the distinctions between GLP-1 medications during a recent episode of his podcast. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring gut hormone that controls blood sugar levels and appetite.
'I’m an oncologist - don’t ignore these silent cancer symptoms'
An oncologist has urged people not to ignore these symptoms, claiming they could be "silent" warning signs of cancer. It could be easy to dismiss these for another cause but it's "always worth getting checked". Persistent tiredness, unexplained weight loss or a cough that refuses to go away are often blamed on getting older, a busy lifestyle or a lingering virus.
UKHSA's school holiday warning as it shares 11am rule
Families have been reminded of an 11am rule to help them stay safe this summer. It comes as part of wider advice for dealing with hot weather, as the Met Office is predicting higher than usual temperatures over the holidays. In an update , the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging families to take simple steps to "enjoy the summer break safely" and "protect their family's health". It warned that further heat health alerts could be issued throughout the summer as temperatures rise.
Drivers could be 'targeted' as DVLA issues clear message
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has warned drivers they're being “targeted” by scammers using fake texts, emails and websites designed to look official. As part of a wider public information push , the agency says fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to trick motorists into handing over personal and financial details. According to reports, around 20,000 people in 2024 told DVLA they had experienced suspected fraud from criminals pretending to be the agency.
Doctor says adding one thing to meals will 'change your health'
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DVLA warning as drivers are being 'targeted' - how to stay safe
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning as drivers are being "targeted". It encouraged motorists to "protect" themselves from fraudsters. In a message shared on social media platform X, the DVLA said: "Scammers are targeting drivers with fake texts and emails pretending to be DVLA. Think before you click. "Don't share personal info. Always use http://GOV.UK.
Doctor says adding one thing to meals will 'change your health'
A doctor is urging people to add a cheap ingredient to their meals to “change their health”. According to the expert, this simple addition could help lower your cholesterol and weight. We are all well aware of the importance of eating a healthy, balanced diet. What you eat can directly influence how well your body functions, even raising or lowering your risk of serious problems. Luckily, there are some simple rules you can follow to ensure you’re giving your body what it needs.
Dr Amir Khan warns women 'might not know about' 5 symptoms
Tue, 21 July 2026 at 5:05 am UTC Doctor Amir Khan warned that you may not have heard of these possible symptoms -Credit:Doctor Amir Khan/Instagram A doctor has warned of five symptoms many women “might not know about”. According to the expert, these can hit during the menopause but aren’t widely talked about. Menopause is a natural life stage that typically affects women between the ages of 45 and 55. It happens when oestrogen levels in the body drop to a point where periods cease completely.
Warning as 'you might not know' this could happen to your teeth
Women may experience a lesser-known mouth problem once they reach a certain age, a doctor has warned. The expert explained that many women "might not know about" this potential side effect of the menopause. Menopause is a natural life stage that typically affects women between the ages of 45 and 55. It occurs when oestrogen levels in the body fall to a point where periods stop altogether.
'Change your life' by adding cholesterol-reducing ingredient to meals
Hiding a cheap everyday food in your meals could help bring down “bad” cholesterol and even support weight loss. A doctor said this habit could "change your life". Most people know a balanced diet matters, but it can still be hard to work out what small changes are genuinely worth making. One medic says there’s an easy place to start: beans.
NHS says 'call 999' now if you spot this sign on your tongue
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Dr Amir Khan shares 2 numbers people over 40 should be worried about
A doctor has warned that every person over 40 should pay attention to two important numbers. These can indicate whether you are living with a “silent killer” condition. High blood pressure, which is also known as hypertension, is a condition where the force of your blood against your artery walls is consistently too high. If left untreated, this can cause damage to the blood vessels as well as organs.
Caravan holiday could see you fined £850 if you forget one thing
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Cancer risk could be increased by eating popular kitchen staple
A spicy ingredient found in lots of popular meals could increase your risk of cancer, a study has found. According to research, people who consume more chilli peppers are more likely to develop certain gastrointestinal cancers, especially oesophageal cancer. In an analysis of data on more than 11,000 people, those with the highest intake of chillis were about 64 per cent more likely to develop gastrointestinal cancers overall.
UKHSA travel illness warning as more than 1,000 cases so far this year
Brits have been urged to stay safe while abroad as new data shows more than 1,000 travel-associated illnesses have been recorded so far this year. Illnesses include malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Measures such as getting vaccinated, taking malaria tablets, and practising good hygiene can all help to prevent sickness .
Sleep sign linked to Alzheimer's disease in new study
Sleeping for a certain number of hours each night has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. A new study has found that the longer you sleep, the more at risk you could be from Alzheimer’s disease. We are all well aware of the importance of getting enough sleep at night. Without it, we can be left feeling tired, irritable and run-down. Long-term insomnia has also been linked to a number of serious health issues, such as obesity and diabetes.
Nationalise UK water companies update as key threshold passed and support soars
The Government has shared an update amid calls for the UK's water companies to be nationalised. It comes after a petition was signed by more than 150,000 members of the public. The petition, which can be viewed on the Parliamentary petition website here , has asked for a referendum to bring the water industry into public ownership. Petition creator, Ashley Paul Smith, claims this would "give the public back its voice".
Supplement warning as mixing with statins could make them 'less effective'
People taking a commonly prescribed type of drug are advised to avoid a certain supplement. According to experts at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), it could make the medication “less effective”. Approximately eight million people in the UK are estimated to be prescribed statins. These medicines help reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (or "bad" cholesterol) in the bloodstream.
NHS says these five foods could help lower your cholesterol
Eating more of five certain foods could help “lower your cholesterol”, according to the NHS . There are also specific foods you should avoid for the same reason. High cholesterol, also referred to as hypercholesterolemia, is a major concern across the UK, with roughly two in five adults believed to be living with the condition - many potentially unaware. It occurs when there's an excess of cholesterol - a fatty, waxy substance - in your bloodstream.
NHS says these five foods could help lower your cholesterol
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Drivers over 70 issued 'do it now' warning by DVLA
Drivers who are aged 70 or approaching their 70th birthday are being reminded to check their driving licence and renew it if needed, as the rules change once you hit the milestone age. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has used social media to prompt motorists to act, telling drivers the renewal can be done online and won't cost anything. In a post on X, the DVLA said: “You need to renew your licence when you turn 70.
Dementia warning signs include unusual fridge habit - how to spot
An unusual habit concerning the fridge might be an overlooked indicator of dementia. If somebody you know exhibits this behaviour, it could be worth seeking advice from a GP. Dementia is a syndrome, or a group of related symptoms, linked to the gradual decline of brain function. It predominantly affects people over 65 and impacts almost one million people throughout the UK.
Missing this much sleep each night linked to weight gain new study finds
Regularly missing sleep at night could cause you to put on weight, according to a new study. The research suggests that constantly sleeping less than usual, even by just over an hour a night, could gradually contribute to weight gain and a more sedentary lifestyle. The study, which was published in Annals of Internal Medicine, revealed that participants adhering to a reduced sleep schedule put on an average of one pound (lb), or roughly half a kilogram (kg), throughout the six-week study period.
I'm a doctor - this is why heatwaves are more unbearable in the UK
The UK is continuing to see scorchingly hot temperatures and an expert says there's a reason why the heat can feel worse in Britain than abroad. Britons are sometimes mocked for their complaints about the baking conditions the country sees in the summer months , given that temperatures generally risen far higher in parts of mainland Europe in years gone by.
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