Sepsis reporting in UK newspapers

There has been a recent push for early recognition and management of sepsis but concern about antibiotic resistance is rising. Rush and colleagues analysed 140 articles about sepsis in children in UK newspapers. Reports were characterised by emotive personal narratives and resulting death was often presented as a failing of the healthcare system, with professionals portrayed as inadequately trained to recognise sepsis and reluctant to prescribe lifesaving antibiotics.

Symptom experience before diagnosis of upper GI cancer

Oesophageal and gastric cancers often present late, with 70% in the UK diagnosed in stages III and IV. Humphrys and colleagues explored patients’ understanding and experience of symptoms before diagnosis. Early symptoms were often normalised, with initial self-management of multiple symptoms.

The experience of primary care for people living with HIV

People living with HIV can be dissatisfied with the services they receive in primary care. Rai and colleagues in London used a mixed methods approach to explore the experience for people with HIV. Two-thirds reported a good experience with their GP, and actual or perceived stigma was associated with poor satisfaction. The best GPs offered continuity and time, and accepted them without judgement.