Low uptake of postpartum screening for Type 2 diabetes in women after a diagnosis of gestational diabetes

Postpartum screening rates for Type 2 diabetes after a diagnosis of gestational diabetes are low across many high-income countries, ranging from 20 to 58% up to 1 year after delivery [1,2]. Subsequent annual follow-up rates plateau at 20% [1].We conducted an audit to assess postnatal diabetes screening rates in 233 women living in the city of Southampton with a history of gestational diabetes, diagnosed using WHO criteria. Current local practice involves giving verbal and written information regarding the risks of Type 2 diabetes after pregnancy at the initial consultation. After delivery and before discharge, all women are recommended to undergo postnatal glucose testing and are informed verbally and in writing to contact their general practitioner for annual ongoing screening. A copy of this letter is sent to the woman's general practitioner

Continuing benefits of the Montreal Protocol and protection of the stratospheric ozone layer for human health and the environment

The protection of Earth's stratospheric ozone (O ) is an ongoing process under the auspices of the universally ratified Montreal Protocol and its Amendments and adjustments. A critical part of this process is the assessment of the environmental issues related to changes in O . The United Nations Environment Programme's Environmental Effects Assessment Panel provides annual scientific evaluations of some of the key issues arising in the recent collective knowledge base. This current update includes a comprehensive assessment of the incidence rates of skin cancer, cataract and other skin and eye diseases observed worldwide; the effects of UV radiation on tropospheric oxidants, and air and water quality; trends in breakdown products of fluorinated chemicals and recent information of their toxicity; and recent technological innovations of building materials for greater resistance to UV radiation. These issues span a wide range of topics, including both harmful and beneficial effects of exposure to UV radiation, and complex interactions with climate change. While the Montreal Protocol has succeeded in preventing large reductions in stratospheric O , future changes may occur due to a number of natural and anthropogenic factors. Thus, frequent assessments of potential environmental impacts are essential to ensure that policies remain based on the best available scientific knowledge