## A Taliban Video Reveals a Painful Hidden Reality

A short, unsettling video circulated on social media in early February has drawn global attention to one of Afghanistan's most deeply rooted and misunderstood cultural practices. Released by Taliban authorities, the four-minute clip shows a frightened child seated in a dimly lit room, being interrogated by an unseen Taliban agent. The child is 13 years old, dressed in loose trousers, a long shirt, and a traditional beaded cap — the clothing of an Afghan boy. But she is a girl.

The Taliban claim the footage was recorded approximately four years ago, shortly after they seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021. They have not explained why it was released now, and the fate of the young girl shown in the video remains unknown.

## What Is Bacha Posh?

The practice of girls disguising themselves as boys has existed in Afghanistan for centuries. It even carries its own name: **bacha posh**, a Dari phrase that translates roughly to "dressing like a boy." Historically documented across generations, the tradition has been explored in numerous cultural works, including the 2003 film *Osama*, the 2018 Oscar-nominated animated film *The Breadwinner* — produced by Angelina Jolie — and the 2014 book *The Underground Girls of Kabul*.

While the practice once may have been tied to a desire for adventure or military service, its meaning in contemporary Afghanistan is far more desperate. Today, bacha posh is largely a survival strategy — a response to the Taliban's suffocating restrictions on women's rights and freedoms.

## Why Families Are Turning Daughters Into Sons

Under the Taliban's governing framework, women are prohibited from working in most professions and are increasingly confined to domestic spaces, stripped of participation in public life. According to Sahar Fetrat, a researcher with the Women's Rights Division at Human Rights Watch, this amounts to a system of "total female subordination."

With the United Nations estimating that nearly 85% of Afghanistan's population is struggling to meet basic needs, families without male breadwinners face an impossible situation. In response, some mothers — particularly those raising multiple daughters with few or no sons — make the calculated decision to present one daughter publicly as a boy.

"I have come across such cases frequently in recent years," says a mental health professional working in western Afghanistan, who asked to be identified only by her initials, NT, citing fear of Taliban retaliation. "My clients are dressing their daughters as boys so they can work and support their families."

She notes that it is typically mothers with "lots of daughters and no sons" who make this choice, effectively transforming one child's public identity to keep the household afloat.

## The Practical Advantages of a Boy's Identity

Beyond earning income, a bacha posh serves another critical function in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Taliban enforcers — particularly agents of the ministry for the prevention of vice and promotion of virtue — have enforced rules requiring women and girls to be accompanied in public by a **mahram**, a male guardian. Crucially, even a boy can fulfill this role.

This creates a practical loophole. A girl disguised as a boy can escort her mother and sisters on errands, navigate public spaces without harassment, and move through daily life with a degree of freedom entirely denied to girls.

One of the mental health counselor's clients, a 16-year-old who goes by the male name Omid, has lived this reality since the age of three. Following her father's death, Omid's mother made the decision to raise her as a boy. As one of seven sisters with only one brother, Omid assumed the role of mahram for her family — accompanying them on trips and helping secure an income.

"He has the freedom to travel and work. He is friends with local boys," the counselor recounted. The motivation was not only economic. "In Afghan culture, sons are seen as valuable. So sometimes, families who don't have sons will dress up one of their daughters to avoid social criticism."

## The Psychological Cost of Living a Double Life

While bacha posh girls may experience a form of freedom that most Afghan girls never know — playing in the streets, visiting shops, moving through public space without scrutiny — this freedom comes at a significant psychological price.

When these girls reach puberty and can no longer maintain the disguise, many face profound identity crises. Some find it deeply difficult to transition back into the restrictive feminine roles that Afghan society demands. Trauma, confusion, and resentment are common outcomes, according to both the mental health counselor and a psychologist who has worked with victims of gender-based violence in Afghanistan. Both professionals requested anonymity due to the risks of speaking openly about this topic under Taliban rule.

Omid, now navigating adolescence, is being asked to relinquish the only identity she has known. The psychological toll, her counselor confirms, has been severe.

## Danger in Both Worlds

Bacha posh girls do not simply inherit the privileges of boyhood — they also inherit its dangers. Fetrat of Human Rights Watch warns that girls living under male disguise are exposed to serious risks, including sexual abuse, exploitative child labor, and profound physical and psychological harm.

"The girls subjected to this practice face abuses outside the home," Fetrat says, "including sexual abuses, child labor, and severe psychological, physical, and identity-related harms."

For Fetrat, the existence of bacha posh is not merely a cultural curiosity — it is a symptom of a system designed to dehumanize women and girls.

## A System With No Good Options

The Taliban's response to the viral interrogation video — releasing it publicly while offering no comment — speaks volumes about how the group views women who step outside their prescribed roles. Girls who disguise themselves as boys simply to eat, to work, or to accompany their families face punishment if discovered.

"The Taliban's misogynist structure systematically treats women and girls as inferior," Fetrat says. "Yet when women and girls are left with no choice but to dress as males just to survive, they are met with punishment."

For the girls of Afghanistan, there are no safe paths — only the least dangerous ones.

Under Taliban rule, Afghan families disguise daughters as boys to survive. Discover the rising practice of bacha posh and its devastating human cost.

Bacha Posh: Why Afghan Girls Are Disguised as Boys

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Bacha Posh: The Hidden Lives of Afghan Girls Who Live as Boys to Survive

## Daily Multivitamin May Slow Biological Aging, New Research Finds

Research published in the journal *Nature Medicine* indicates that taking a daily multivitamin for two years may modestly slow certain biological aging markers — though scientists caution that the practical health implications remain uncertain.

## Biological Age vs. Chronological Age

Unlike chronological age, which simply counts how many years a person has been alive, biological age reflects the actual condition and functioning of the body. Scientists often estimate biological age by examining DNA methylation — changes to DNA that accumulate over time and influence how genes are expressed. One prevailing theory holds that slowing these biological aging markers could help delay or reduce the severity of age-related diseases, potentially extending the number of healthy years a person enjoys.

## What the Study Found

The US-based study — which received partial funding from confectionery giant Mars — enrolled 958 healthy adults with an average age of approximately 70 years. Participants were divided into four groups and assigned to take either a daily cocoa extract combined with a multivitamin, cocoa extract with a placebo, a multivitamin with a cocoa extract placebo, or two placebos.

Blood samples were collected at the beginning of the trial and again at the one- and two-year marks. Researchers analyzed these samples for changes across five distinct DNA methylation measures, commonly referred to as "epigenetic clocks."

After adjusting for variables such as age, sex, and baseline readings, the team found that participants taking a daily multivitamin demonstrated a slowdown in biological aging across two of the five epigenetic clocks — particularly those associated with estimating mortality risk. In total, the researchers estimated this amounted to roughly four months less biological aging over the two-year period.

### Who Benefited Most?

Interestingly, the effects appeared more pronounced in individuals who were aging at a faster biological rate at the outset of the study. Researchers suggested this may be because those participants had greater nutritional deficiencies to begin with.

"Nutritional status may partly explain the results, but these epigenetic clocks may reflect other age-related risk factors," said Dr. Howard Sesso, an epidemiologist at Mass General Brigham and senior author of the study.

The cocoa extract supplement, by comparison, showed no significant effect on any of the five epigenetic clocks and did not appear to interact with the multivitamin in any meaningful way.

## Experts Urge Caution

Despite the findings, Sesso was careful not to overstate their significance. "There are no known risks for taking a multivitamin in our two large clinical trials. At the same time, we do not know for sure who benefits, and how," he noted, adding that the results should not be interpreted as a recommendation for all older adults to begin taking multivitamins.

Experts not involved in the study echoed that measured approach. Dr. Marco Di Antonio, a biological aging specialist at Imperial College London, pointed out that the connection between epigenetic clocks and tangible aging outcomes remains poorly understood.

"I do not think that people should start taking multivitamins daily necessarily, but these results demonstrate that having a healthy diet and lifestyle will have an effect on your biological age," Di Antonio said. He further warned that multivitamins would be "pointless" without an accompanying healthy lifestyle, as poor habits can negatively impact aging in ways that supplements cannot reverse.

Noteworthy too is a large study published last year that found daily multivitamin use did not extend lifespan and may even be associated with a slightly elevated risk of early death — findings that stand in contrast to the current research.

### A Word From Independent Experts

Dr. Pilar Guallar Castillón, an associate professor at the Autonomous University of Madrid, offered a more direct perspective. She highlighted that the clinical trial associated with this study found no measurable effect of multivitamin use on the primary causes of death and illness.

"My personal advice is to stop taking multivitamins, whether in pill or gummy form," she stated. "Eat a healthy, varied diet rich in fruit and vegetables — the main natural source of vitamins and minerals — and do not waste your money on nutritional supplements. There are huge commercial interests in their consumption and a lack of clinical evidence."

Colleagues from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health similarly stressed that the effects observed in the study were very small and that further research is needed to determine whether these findings translate into genuine, clinically meaningful health benefits.

## The Bottom Line

While the idea that a simple daily supplement could slow the hands of biological time is compelling, the science remains far from settled. The modest effects observed in this study, combined with conflicting evidence from other research, suggest that no multivitamin can substitute for a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and a healthy overall lifestyle. For now, experts agree: eat well, live well, and consult your doctor before adding any supplement to your routine.

New research suggests daily multivitamins may modestly slow biological aging markers, but experts say healthy lifestyle choices matter far more than supplements

Can a Daily Multivitamin Slow Biological Aging?

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Daily Multivitamin May Slow Biological Aging, New Research Finds

## New Mother's 90-Mile Journey Exposes Critical Gaps in Postpartum Mental Health Care

A young mother who experienced a severe mental health crisis just days after childbirth is now speaking out about the urgent need for greater access to specialist maternity psychiatric care across the United Kingdom.

Lizzy Berryman, 30, from York, was involuntarily sectioned under the Mental Health Act and transported approximately 90 miles to a specialist facility in Derby — all while suffering the physical and psychological aftermath of a traumatic birth experience. She is now calling on health authorities to expand the network of mother and baby units (MBUs) so that vulnerable new mothers no longer face the ordeal of being separated from their loved ones during the most critical moments of their recovery.

### A Crisis That Escalated Without Warning

Just four days after welcoming her baby, Lizzy began showing alarming signs of postpartum psychosis — a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can trigger vivid hallucinations, extreme paranoia, and debilitating insomnia. What started as restlessness and anxiety rapidly spiraled into a full psychological emergency.

"I was becoming more and more confused and anxious. I couldn't manage basic tasks like making tea or changing my baby's nappy," Lizzy recalled. "Eventually, I started screaming, ran toward the windows, and thrashed on the floor for hours. I genuinely believed I was in hell."

Her family held her at home for two hours while waiting for emergency services to arrive. She was subsequently sectioned at York Hospital's emergency department after it became clear she required immediate specialist intervention.

### Forced to Travel Far From Home

Family members were informed that no beds were available at the mother and baby unit in Leeds — the only MBU serving the entire Yorkshire region. As a result, Lizzy was transported to the nearest available facility equipped to handle severe postnatal mental health conditions, located in Derby.

The journey itself was distressing. "I was soaked in my own urine because I kept pushing as though I was in labor again every time the psychosis hit," she said, describing the harrowing car ride to the treatment center.

Once admitted, Lizzy underwent eight weeks of intensive inpatient treatment. The prolonged stay in a city far from home placed enormous financial strain on her family, with her husband Adam and other relatives spending thousands of pounds on local accommodation just to remain close to her.

### A Recovery Shadowed by Distance

As Adam's paternity leave expired, his daily hospital visits became impossible. Lizzy found herself navigating the darkest period of her life without the consistent presence of her partner or the comfort of familiar surroundings.

"There were so many milestones Adam was missing with our baby, and I needed him there with me," she said. "Being so far from home made my depression worse. I felt completely isolated."

Although Lizzy gradually stabilized and her section was eventually lifted, she firmly believes the distance from home significantly extended her recovery timeline. "I was at my most vulnerable and needed to feel safe. If I had been treated closer to York, I could have had friends and family around me and begun reconnecting with normal life much sooner," she explained.

Lizzy has since made a full recovery and returned to work. While she credits the Derby MBU staff with saving her life, she remains passionately committed to advocating for a wider network of specialist units across the country.

## The Wider Problem: A Postcode Lottery for New Mothers

Lizzy's experience is far from isolated. Data obtained through a BBC Freedom of Information request revealed that approximately 100 women from Yorkshire alone were sent to MBUs outside their local area over the past five years. Some were transported as far as Birmingham and London to access the care they needed.

The sole MBU currently serving Yorkshire, based in Leeds, operates with just eight beds — though expansion plans to increase capacity to 14 beds are underway.

Aylesbury MP Laura Kyrke-Smith, whose close friend died by suicide following childbirth, described the current situation as a "postcode lottery," noting that some regions of the country are "complete deserts" when it comes to specialist postnatal mental health provision.

"Suicide remains the leading cause of death among women from six weeks to one year after giving birth — a statistic that is both shocking and unacceptable," she said. "Mother and baby units represent the right model of care, and every woman who needs this support should be able to access it."

### Experts Warn of Serious Risks

Dr. Jessica Heron, CEO of the charity Action on Postpartum Psychosis, highlighted the dangers faced by women who cannot access MBUs. "When specialist units aren't available, women are often admitted to general psychiatric wards, which are entirely unsuitable for new mothers," she said.

"We regularly hear from families traveling two to three hours to reach specialist care. The real risk is that women and their families simply decline treatment altogether because the barriers are too great."

## Government and NHS Response

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the issue, stating: "Women experiencing severe mental illness following childbirth deserve compassionate, specialist care delivered as close to home as possible and as quickly as possible."

The spokesperson added that the government is investing an additional £688 million in mental health services this financial year, alongside plans to recruit nearly 8,000 mental health workers and expand NHS talking therapy provision.

NHS England's North East and Yorkshire division defended the current regional model, explaining that MBUs are designed to concentrate clinical expertise within a single, well-resourced hub to ensure consistently high-quality care. A spokesperson acknowledged, however, that joint working across integrated care boards is essential to address the access challenges faced by patients living far from the Leeds unit.

---

For Lizzy, the fight is personal — and far from over. "This has ignited something in me," she said. "I need people to understand that this is a real and serious problem. Too many families are being torn apart, and that has to change."

Lizzy Berryman traveled 90 miles for emergency postpartum psychosis treatment, highlighting a critical shortage of mother and baby units across the UK.

New Mother Sent 90 Miles for Postpartum Psychosis Care

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New Mother Traveled 90 Miles for Mental Health Care After Traumatic Postpartum Psychosis Episode

## NHS England Suspends New Cross-Sex Hormone Prescriptions for Under-18s

NHS England has officially paused the issuing of new cross-sex hormone prescriptions to 16 and 17-year-olds who are questioning their gender identity. The decision follows an extensive evidence review that concluded the existing body of research supporting such treatments is significantly lacking in quality and reliability.

Teenagers who are currently receiving these hormones will not have their treatment interrupted, though their healthcare providers will be asked to conduct formal reviews of each individual case.

### What Are Cross-Sex Hormones and Why Do They Matter?

Cross-sex hormones — typically testosterone or oestrogen — are prescribed to help individuals develop physical characteristics aligned with their preferred gender rather than their biological sex. These treatments can trigger permanent bodily changes, such as a deeper voice or breast tissue development, making the decision to prescribe them particularly consequential for young patients.

Existing NHS guidance had already prohibited the prescription of these hormones to anyone under the age of 16 for gender-related treatment. The latest pause now extends additional scrutiny to 16 and 17-year-olds as well.

### The Evidence Review That Triggered the Decision

The suspension was set in motion following the landmark Cass Review, a comprehensive report into children's gender healthcare published in April 2024 by Dr Hilary Cass. The report raised serious concerns, stating that the evidence underpinning medical interventions for gender dysphoria in young people was "remarkably weak."

In response, NHS England commissioned ten independent evidence reviews examining the effects of testosterone and oestrogen — used alone or in combination with other medications — on young people who identify as a gender different from their biological sex. The reviews assessed a wide range of outcomes, including mental health, quality of life, and overall wellbeing.

The conclusion was clear: there is insufficient high-quality evidence to determine whether these treatments are ultimately beneficial or harmful to young patients.

Professor James Palmer, National Medical Director for Specialised Services at NHS England, described the review process as "exceptionally thorough and complex." He stated that the findings "established that the available evidence does not support the continued use of masculinising or feminising hormones" to treat gender dysphoria or gender incongruence in under-18s, adding that the NHS "cannot say if they are harmful or effective."

### Public Consultation Now Open

A 90-day public consultation on the revised policy launched on Monday, inviting responses from advocacy groups, healthcare professionals, and members of the public. NHS England stated it hopes the consultation process will help identify any overlooked evidence and that longer-term guidance will be issued as promptly as possible.

Young people who can no longer access the treatment through this route will be directed to one of three NHS gender clinics for children currently operating across England, where alternative forms of care will be made available.

### Reactions From Advocacy Groups and Healthcare Professionals

The decision has drawn sharply divided responses from different corners of the debate.

Trans advocacy group TransLucent condemned the move, calling it "yet another blatant act of discrimination against transgender youths' healthcare, which has been systematically eroded since the Cass Review." The group announced it would critically assess NHS England's evidence and is actively considering legal action over what it described as a serious human rights concern.

Paul Carruthers, nurse consultant and manager of Gender Plus — the only privately registered gender hormone clinic in the UK rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission — expressed dismay at the decision. He noted that his clinic follows a rigorous process aligned with international standards before prescribing hormones, and argued that "NHS England's interpretation of the evidence is in contrast to every reputable expert body in the field of transgender healthcare."

In contrast, Helen Joyce, Director of Advocacy at sex-based rights charity Sex Matters, welcomed the move. She described the prescription of cross-sex hormones to under-18s as "outrageous" and called the pause "long overdue," arguing that young people are "simply too young to consent to such irreversible, life-changing consequences."

### Legal and Political Background

This decision arrives against a backdrop of ongoing legal and political pressure. Last year, a legal challenge was mounted by campaigners — led by Keira Bell, who was prescribed testosterone as a teenager and later expressed deep regret over the permanent physical changes it caused — against the government's approach to prescribing cross-sex hormones to 16 and 17-year-olds. Although that case was dismissed in May 2025, Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting MP indicated at the time that he was "actively considering" banning or restricting hormone use in young people, pending the outcome of the very review whose findings have now prompted this pause.

It is important to note that this revised guidance applies exclusively to NHS prescribers. Private doctors operating outside the NHS are not bound by this policy change.

The Department of Health and Social Care reaffirmed its position, stating: "The safety and wellbeing of children and young people is paramount, and NHS England follows expert scientific and clinical advice when making decisions relating to clinical policies."

NHS England halts new cross-sex hormone prescriptions for teenagers aged 16-17 following a major evidence review finding insufficient data on safety and benefit

NHS Pauses Cross-Sex Hormone Prescriptions for Under-18s

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NHS England Halts New Cross-Sex Hormone Prescriptions for Teenagers Under 18

## Celebrating International Women's Day: Stories of Strength and Courage

Every year on March 8, the world pauses to honor women whose strength and determination continue to shape history. International Women's Day carries a powerful origin story — one rooted in protest, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

### The Historical Roots of March 8

The date itself traces back to a remarkable act of defiance during World War I. Russian women took to the streets, demanding bread and peace. Their four-day strike sent shockwaves through the political establishment — the Czar stepped down, and women won the right to vote. That strike began on February 23, 1917, under the Julian calendar, which corresponds to March 8 on the Gregorian calendar widely used today. That is why March 8 became the globally recognized date for this celebration.

This year, the United Nations has centered its International Women's Day theme around a powerful call: **"Rights. Justice. Action. For all women and girls."**

To honor this spirit, photographers from The Everyday Projects — a global photography and storytelling network — have shared striking portraits of women whose contributions, both large and small, are quietly transforming the world.

---

## Jean, 72 — Keeper of a Living Art Form, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, a 72-year-old Chinese opera performer named Jean prepares backstage at Kwai Chai Hong, a beautifully restored heritage alley. Photographed by Kuala Lumpur-based photographer Annice Lyn just minutes before taking the stage, Jean embodies decades of discipline, dedication, and cultural devotion.

Chinese opera is a demanding art form that weaves together singing, acting, martial arts, intricate costumes, and elaborate symbolic makeup to bring ancient stories from Chinese folklore, history, and literature to life. Performers like Jean often spend their entire lives mastering its nuances.

"Performers like Jean dedicate decades to preserving techniques and stories that are centuries old," says Lyn. Despite occasionally facing dismissive reactions or indifference from others, Jean continues to perform with unwavering commitment.

"Sustaining a centuries-old practice in a modern urban setting requires both resilience and passion," Lyn explains. "I wanted to give Jean the dignity she deserves — a strong, intimate image that acknowledges her beauty, her discipline, and the life she has dedicated to Chinese opera. I hoped to make her feel seen and heard, capturing not just a performance but a living cultural legacy."

---

## Nkgono Selina Mosima — Dignity in the Face of Hardship, South Africa

In Thaba Nchu, a poverty-stricken region in South Africa's Free State, Nkgono Selina Mosima faced a reality that millions of women around the world know all too well — the absence of basic sanitation.

For years, Mosima hoped to afford the cost of having a pit toilet dug in her yard. Without it, she — like many of her neighbors — was left with no choice but to practice open defecation, a situation fraught with personal safety risks and serious public health consequences.

Johannesburg-based photographer and writer Tshepiso Mabula captured Mosima's portrait in 2020, drawn to her extraordinary optimism in the face of adversity.

"I was drawn to Nkgono by her unrelenting faith and positive outlook. Despite her difficult circumstances, she constantly reiterated her hope that things would improve," says Mabula. The portrait's vibrant colors, Mosima's headscarf, and the belt around her waist were all deliberate choices to reflect her inner strength and resilience.

In a hopeful turn, Mosima eventually managed to save enough money to have that pit toilet installed. Her story, however, remains a powerful reminder that countless women across the globe still lack access to safe sanitation today.

---

## The Mighty Girls — Breaking Boundaries on the Football Field, Russia

Imagine launching a women's American football league — not soccer, but full-contact American football — in Russia. That is exactly what photographer Kristina Brazhnikova documented in her compelling project, *Mighty Girls*, captured between 2018 and 2021.

Open to any Russian woman regardless of age, body type, or fitness level, the league welcomed enthusiastic participants from across the country. Coaches from the U.S. women's national football team even lent their expertise to help the players develop their skills.

One featured photograph shows three players — Gabi, Katya, and Olesia — from the Voronezh team, nicknamed the "Mighty Ducks," relaxing in a locker room during a training camp.

The league ran largely on enthusiasm and personal investment. Players studied playbooks independently, purchased their own protective gear, paid for field rentals, and funded their own travel to competitions in other cities. The physical and mental demands of the sport meant that many women stepped away after their first practice.

"Those who stayed, however, found a new family," says Brazhnikova. The women reported that playing American football made them braver, more decisive, and more willing to step outside their comfort zones. Many went on to make bold life changes — switching careers and ending relationships that no longer served them. As Brazhnikova puts it, the sound of pads colliding on the field became their favorite sound.

---

## Hilaria Arzaba Medran — Searching for the Missing, Mexico

For Hilaria Arzaba Medran, 57, the fight for justice is deeply personal. Her son, Oscar Contreras Arzaba, vanished on May 22, 2011, at just 19 years of age. Since then, Hilaria has refused to stop searching.

A resident of Veracruz, Mexico, she is a member of Solecito, a collective of approximately 250 individuals — predominantly women — who regularly comb through fields and remote locations in search of their missing loved ones. The group often acts on anonymous tips, venturing into isolated and potentially dangerous territory without security personnel.

Photographer James Rodríguez captured Hilaria on February 20, 2018, tools in hand, as she searched a known clandestine burial site on the outskirts of Córdoba following an anonymous tip.

"I was awe-struck by their determination to find their loved ones despite horrific violence and real threats to their own well-being," says Rodríguez. "I was truly astounded by their conviction and courage."

Hilaria's story is one of unimaginable grief met with extraordinary courage — a mother who refuses to let the world forget her son.

---

## Janaina Xavier — A Voice for the Homeless, São Paulo, Brazil

In one of São Paulo's most stigmatized neighborhoods, Janaina Xavier is a beacon of advocacy and community leadership. Photographed on April 23, 2024, while cradling her son near the city's notorious Cracolândia district, Janaina is a mother of ten who has turned personal hardship into powerful activism.

She currently serves as a council member for the Coordination of Policies for the Homeless Population and tirelessly advocates for the rights of those living in and around Cracolândia — a region long associated with poverty, drug use, and social exclusion.

"I've known Janaina for many years, since I began documenting Cracolândia," says photographer Luca Meola. "She has long been involved in struggles for housing rights for people living in this highly stigmatized region of the city."

Janaina's quiet strength, captured in a single image — a mother holding her child while gazing out of a window in an occupied building — speaks volumes about the intersection of motherhood, resilience, and the ongoing fight for human dignity.

---

## The Everyday Power of Women

From the stage to the streets, from football fields to clandestine burial grounds, these women remind us that courage does not always look the same. Sometimes it wears elaborate opera makeup. Sometimes it carries a shovel. Sometimes it simply holds a child and refuses to give up.

On International Women's Day and every day beyond it, their stories deserve to be seen, heard, and remembered.

Meet five remarkable women from around the world whose courage and resilience are driving change. Celebrating International Women's Day with powerful stories.

Portraits of Brave Women Fighting for Justice Worldwide

Portraits of Power: Women Around the World Fighting for Justice and Freedom

## UK Cancer Death Rates Have Fallen by Almost a Third Since the 1980s

A landmark analysis has revealed that the rate of cancer-related deaths across the United Kingdom has declined by nearly 30% since the late 1980s, marking one of the most significant public health achievements in modern British history. The findings, published by Cancer Research UK (CRUK), highlight decades of progress in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment innovation.

At its peak in 1989, approximately 355 out of every 100,000 people in the UK died from cancer annually. Today, that figure stands at around 247 per 100,000 — a 29% reduction that reflects transformative changes across the entire cancer care landscape.

## Significant Declines Across Multiple Cancer Types

The progress becomes even more striking when examining the past decade alone, during which overall cancer mortality dropped by 11%. Several specific cancer types have seen particularly dramatic improvements:

- **Stomach cancer**: death rate fell by 34%
- **Ovarian cancer**: down 19% between 2012–2014 and 2022–2024
- **Lung cancer**: reduced by 22%
- **Oesophageal cancer**: dropped 12%
- **Breast cancer**: fell 14%
- **Cervical cancer**: declined 11%
- **Bowel cancer**: dipped 6%
- **Leukaemia**: decreased 9%

Cervical cancer deserves special mention — its death rate has plummeted by 75% since the 1970s, largely attributed to the NHS cervical screening programme and, more recently, the widespread rollout of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Since its introduction in 2008, approximately 6.5 million people in the UK have received the HPV vaccine, and its impact on reducing cervical cancer cases continues to grow.

## Some Cancer Rates Are Moving in the Wrong Direction

Despite the overall positive trend, certain cancers have seen their mortality rates rise over the past decade. Gallbladder cancer increased by 29%, eye cancer climbed 26%, liver cancer rose 14%, and kidney cancer edged up 5%. Death rates for thyroid cancer, pancreatic cancer, and melanoma remained broadly stable during the same period.

These figures serve as a reminder that progress, while substantial, is far from uniform across all cancer types.

## What Is Behind the Improvements?

CRUK attributes the falling death rates to a combination of interconnected factors. Public health measures such as smoking bans have played a critical role in reducing cancer incidence. Nationwide screening programmes for breast, bowel, and cervical cancers have enabled earlier detection, when treatment is far more likely to be successful.

Advances in medical science have also been pivotal. Abiraterone, a drug that inhibits testosterone from fuelling prostate cancer growth, was developed by CRUK scientists and has contributed to an 11% reduction in prostate cancer mortality over the past decade. More targeted therapies and less invasive treatment approaches have improved outcomes while reducing the burden on patients.

Dr Sam Godfrey, Science Engagement Lead at CRUK, described the significance of the findings: "These figures represent decades of crucial scientific breakthroughs — from vaccines that prevent cancer to kinder, more targeted treatments. Because of this, thousands more people today can make memories, reach milestones, and spend precious time with their loved ones."

## Challenges That Still Lie Ahead

While the data paints an encouraging picture, serious challenges remain. Cancer continues to be the leading cause of death in Britain, accounting for roughly one in four fatalities. The UK's cancer survival rates still trail behind several European nations, including Romania and Poland — a gap that experts say must be urgently addressed.

Furthermore, an expanding and ageing population means that more people are being diagnosed with cancer than ever before — at a rate of one new diagnosis every 75 seconds in the UK. Despite falling death rates per 100,000 people, the absolute number of cancer deaths continues to rise.

### The NHS Cancer Crisis

The healthcare system's ability to deliver timely cancer care has come under intense scrutiny. A Guardian investigation found that three-quarters of NHS hospital trusts are failing to meet cancer care standards, leading medical experts to declare a national emergency. Critically, no cancer waiting time targets have been met by the NHS since 2015.

Adding to the pressure, Britain's departure from the European Union has complicated access to life-saving treatments. According to one of the most comprehensive reports on the subject, Brexit has "damaged the practical ability" of doctors to enrol NHS patients in international clinical trials, cutting off access to revolutionary therapies and slowing research.

### Government Response and Future Investment

In response to the mounting crisis, the government recently announced a £2 billion investment aimed at overhauling cancer services across England. The pledge promises faster diagnoses, shorter treatment waiting times, and enhanced support for patients living with cancer. Under the new national cancer plan, all three key waiting time standards are targeted to be met by 2029.

Dr Godfrey also stressed the importance of maintaining research momentum: "It's essential that the government makes it easier and faster to set up clinical trials, as well as providing NHS staff with the time and space to carry out life-saving research."

## A Cause for Optimism — With Caution

The near-30% reduction in cancer death rates since the 1980s is a testament to what sustained investment in science, public health, and medical innovation can achieve. Yet the work is far from finished. Closing the gap with leading European nations, addressing rising rates in certain cancer types, and ensuring every patient has timely access to the best available treatments remain urgent priorities for both the NHS and policymakers alike.

Cancer death rates in the UK have dropped by almost a third since 1989. Discover what's driving the progress and the challenges that still remain.

UK Cancer Death Rates Fall Nearly 30% Since the 1980s

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UK Cancer Mortality Drops Nearly 30% Since the 1980s — Here's What's Driving the Progress

## UK Surgeon Makes History with 1,500-Mile Remote Robotic Operation

A pioneering surgical milestone has been reached in the United Kingdom, as a London-based surgeon successfully performed a remote robotic operation on a patient situated 1,500 miles (approximately 2,400km) away in Gibraltar — marking a landmark moment in modern medical history.

Renowned robotic urological surgeon Professor Prokar Dasgupta conducted the procedure from The London Clinic, describing the experience as feeling "almost as if I was there." The operation involved the complete removal of a prostate from cancer patient Paul Buxton, 62, who reported feeling "fantastic" in the aftermath.

## Patient Says the Decision Was a 'No-Brainer'

Buxton, originally from Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset, relocated to Gibraltar four decades ago. When he received a shocking prostate cancer diagnosis shortly after Christmas, he anticipated a lengthy wait on an NHS list followed by an extended trip to London for treatment.

Instead, he was presented with an extraordinary alternative — becoming the first patient in the UK to undergo a long-distance robotic surgical procedure as part of a clinical trial.

"A lot of people said to me: 'You're not going to do it, are you?'" Buxton recalled. "I thought, I'm giving something back here."

He noted that without the remote procedure, he would have faced flying to London, joining an NHS waiting list, undergoing surgery, and likely spending around three weeks in the capital. The telesurgery option eliminated all of that entirely.

"It is pioneering for Gibraltar, because you don't need to leave Gibraltar," he added.

## How the Technology Works

The operation, carried out on 11 February, utilized the advanced **Toumai Robotic System** — a collaboration between The London Clinic and the Gibraltar Health Authority. The robotic unit deployed in Gibraltar is equipped with a high-definition 3D camera and four precision-controlled arms.

Professor Dasgupta operated the system through a dedicated console in London, connected to the robot in Gibraltar via fibre-optic cables, supported by a backup 5G link. The signal delay was a remarkably low 0.06 seconds, ensuring near-real-time responsiveness throughout the procedure.

A standby surgical team remained present in Gibraltar in the event of a connectivity failure, though the connection remained stable for the entire duration of the operation.

## A Step Toward Global Access to Elite Healthcare

Gibraltar, a British overseas territory, is served by just one hospital — St Bernard's at Europort. Residents requiring complex medical care have historically needed to travel abroad, often to the UK, for specialist treatment. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce that burden.

Professor Dasgupta highlighted the broader humanitarian implications of the technology:

> "This gives us the opportunity to treat patients in remote areas and smaller communities by literally being able to take the best surgeon anywhere."

He described the development as "very, very exciting," emphasizing that its humanitarian benefit would be considerable.

### Previous Milestones in Telesurgery

British surgeons have already contributed to major advances in the field of telesurgery. Notably, a 4,000-mile transatlantic robotic stroke procedure was conducted on a cadaver — a body donated to science — demonstrating that long-distance robotic surgery was technically achievable. This latest live operation on a real patient marks a significant leap forward.

## What Comes Next

This historic procedure was the first of two planned test cases. A second operation involving an unidentified 52-year-old patient was conducted on 4 March, also in Gibraltar.

Professor Dasgupta is scheduled to perform a further procedure on 14 March, which will be **live-streamed to approximately 20,000 leading urological surgeons** gathered at the prestigious European Association of Urology congress — giving the global medical community a front-row seat to this revolutionary advancement.

Meanwhile, the NHS has set an ambitious target of delivering 500,000 robot-assisted surgical procedures annually by 2035, underscoring its commitment to expanding robotic healthcare capabilities across the country.

For patients in remote or underserved locations, developments like this could soon mean that world-class surgical expertise is never truly out of reach.

A London surgeon has completed the UK's first long-distance robotic operation on a patient 1,500 miles away in Gibraltar, marking a historic medical milestone.

UK Surgeon Performs First Remote Robotic Surgery 1,500 Miles

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UK Surgeon Performs Groundbreaking Remote Robotic Operation 1,500 Miles Away in Gibraltar

## Cancer Patient Stranded in Dubai Makes It Home for Critical Treatment

A 47-year-old woman battling stage three cancer has described securing a last-minute flight out of Dubai as nothing short of a miracle, after regional conflict threatened to derail her life-saving chemotherapy treatment.

Lindsay Stone, from Plymouth, had been scheduled to fly home on Sunday to begin her cancer treatment at Derriford Hospital. However, her plans were thrown into chaos when her flight was cancelled following US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory Iranian attacks across the region.

## Terrifying Scenes Above the Hotel

Lindsay, her husband Paul, and their children witnessed the conflict firsthand when a drone was intercepted directly above the hotel where they were staying — The Palm, located near Jebel Ali Port. Lindsay described the moment as absolutely terrifying.

The couple recalled hearing a sound resembling a sonic boom as a missile was intercepted overhead. Paul described Saturday as the most harrowing day of the ordeal.

"The Saturday especially, it did feel like this could get a lot worse and there were a lot of bombs going off," Paul said. "It was quite traumatic from that point of view."

The family also received emergency alerts on their phones warning them to stay away from windows and remain indoors. They were effectively confined to the hotel for two consecutive days.

### Exploring Every Possible Route Home

With Lindsay's treatment window closing, the couple began exploring every possible option to get back to the UK — including a gruelling 13-hour coach journey if necessary.

"If that meant we had to go and get a coach and sit in it for 13 hours, then we would have done it," Paul said, emphasising just how determined they were to ensure his wife could begin her chemotherapy on time.

Lindsay admitted that during the uncertainty, she had no idea whether she would be stuck in Dubai for one, two, or even three weeks.

## Relief as Virgin Atlantic Offers a Way Out

The family's anxiety finally eased when Virgin Atlantic confirmed that Lindsay could board a flight departing on Wednesday. She described the news as securing a "miracle flight."

The journey home was not without tension, however. Paul explained that the aircraft took a route south along Saudi Arabia before crossing over Israeli airspace.

"I think until we got past there, the plane was very quiet," he recalled. The family described an overwhelming sense of relief once they were safely out of the region.

## Thousands of Britons Still Stranded

Lindsay's story is far from unique. Thousands of British nationals remain stranded across the Middle East following the escalation of conflict. On Thursday, the first UK government-chartered flight departed the region in an effort to begin bringing some of those travellers home.

Among those caught up in the chaos was Mickey Drew, a 31-year-old from Angarrack, Cornwall, who had been travelling back from Australia with two friends when flights were suspended at Dubai airport.

"It was absolute chaos," she said, describing the experience as one of the most stressful periods of her life. Mickey's group was split across separate flights, adding to the anxiety of an already difficult situation.

"I was panicking all the way up to takeoff," she admitted. "I don't think I calmed down until we left UAE airspace."

Her group was rushed onto their aircraft with little warning before the plane took off almost immediately after boarding.

## A Story of Determination Amid Crisis

For Lindsay and Paul Stone, the ordeal underscores just how far a family will go when health and survival are on the line. Having navigated missile strikes, emergency lockdowns, and flight cancellations, Lindsay has now returned to Plymouth and is set to begin the chemotherapy treatment she so urgently needs.

A Plymouth woman with stage three cancer escaped war-torn Dubai on a miracle Virgin Atlantic flight to begin urgent chemotherapy treatment at Derriford Hospital

Cancer Patient Escapes Dubai on Miracle Flight for Chemo

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Cancer Patient Escapes War-Torn Dubai on 'Miracle Flight' to Begin Chemotherapy

## Too Wired to Wind Down? Proven Bedtime Rituals to Calm Your Body and Mind

After a long, hectic day, quieting your thoughts and drifting off to sleep can feel nearly impossible. The mental noise from deadlines, responsibilities, and unresolved worries has a way of following you straight into the bedroom. The good news? A consistent wind-down routine can signal to your body that it is time to rest — and sleep specialists have the science to back it up.

## Why a Bedtime Routine Actually Works

A thoughtfully designed evening routine does more than just help you feel relaxed — it triggers a chain of biological responses that prepare your body for sleep. When you consistently engage in calming pre-sleep habits, your brain begins to associate those activities with rest. Whether it is a quiet hobby like reading or knitting, a mindfulness practice like meditation, or simply adjusting the atmosphere in your home, these rituals communicate one clear message to your nervous system: the day is over, and it is safe to let go.

## Strategy 1: Dim the Lights Early

One of the simplest and most effective changes you can make is controlling your lighting in the evening. Exposure to bright light suppresses melatonin — the hormone responsible for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. By dimming your environment, you encourage your body to produce melatonin naturally and ease into a sleepy state.

### Try This Tonight

Switch off harsh overhead lights in your living room and bedroom as the evening progresses. Replace them with dimmable lamps or bulbs with a lower wattage. When you are ready for bed, turn off all lamps completely. Keep in mind that even small amounts of light can interrupt your sleep — even through closed eyelids. If blackout curtains are not an option, an eye mask is a worthwhile investment.

## Strategy 2: Lower Your Body Temperature

According to Dr. Seema Khosla, a sleep medicine physician and host of the *Talking Sleep* podcast, the speed at which your body temperature drops directly influences how quickly you fall asleep. A cooler core temperature is a biological cue that tells your brain it is time to shut down for the night.

### Try This Tonight

Take a warm shower or bath before bed. The contrast between stepping out of a warm shower and into a cool room encourages a rapid drop in body temperature, which accelerates the onset of sleep. Set your thermostat to around 68 degrees Fahrenheit for an ideal sleep environment. A cooler room may make a surprising difference in both how fast you fall asleep and the quality of rest you get.

## Strategy 3: Protect Your Emotional State Before Bed

Anything that triggers strong emotions — whether excitement, anxiety, or stress — can keep your nervous system on high alert and make sleep difficult. Sleep researchers emphasize the importance of cultivating a sense of safety and calm as bedtime approaches.

### Try This Tonight

Take an honest look at your current evening habits. Are you scrolling through work emails, getting caught up in stimulating conversations, or planning exciting events right before bed? These activities may seem harmless but can elevate your emotional arousal at the worst possible time. Instead, opt for small, meaningful moments of connection — a hug with a loved one, a few minutes of gentle conversation, or a brief gratitude practice. These simple acts can foster a sense of well-being that eases you into sleep.

## Strategy 4: Empty Your Mind Onto Paper

A racing mind filled with tomorrow's to-do list or unresolved worries is one of the most common barriers to falling asleep. Rather than lying in the dark hoping those thoughts will disappear, sleep experts recommend addressing them proactively — before the lights go out.

### Try This Tonight

Keep a notebook on your nightstand. Before bed, write down every concern, task, or lingering thought that is occupying mental space. Next to each one, jot down a single, concrete action step you plan to take the following day. The key here is not to solve the problem — attempting to do so can actually increase mental arousal and keep you awake even longer. Simply acknowledging each stressor and assigning it a next step is enough to signal to your brain that it has been handled and can be set aside until morning.

## Build Your Routine One Step at a Time

You do not need to overhaul your entire evening schedule overnight. Start by incorporating one or two of these strategies and build from there. The goal is to create a consistent, calming pre-sleep ritual that your body and mind begin to recognize as the bridge between the busyness of the day and the deep rest you need each night. Over time, these habits can transform not just how quickly you fall asleep, but the overall quality of your rest.

Struggling to fall asleep? Discover expert-backed bedtime rituals that calm your mind, lower stress, and prepare your body for deep, restful sleep.

Bedtime Rituals to Calm Your Body and Mind for Sleep

Too Wired to Wind Down? Proven Bedtime Rituals to Calm Your Body and Mind

## 'He Died Alone': Bereaved Families Have the Final Say at the Covid Inquiry

After three years of extensive public hearings, the UK Covid inquiry concluded its testimony phase this week — and the most powerful voices saved for last were those of the people who lost the most.

Rivka Gottlieb was among the final witnesses to speak. She described her father, Michael, as a vibrant 73-year-old who worked part-time at a golf shop and volunteered teaching children at his local synagogue. Today, she says she remains haunted by one unbearable truth: he died without anyone by his side.

### A Family Torn Apart by the Pandemic

In March 2020, just as the United Kingdom entered its first national lockdown, both Michael and his wife Mili were admitted to the Royal Free Hospital in north London, each placed on separate wards after presenting with Covid symptoms.

"We were just expecting him to be given a bit of oxygen and then he'd be sent home," Rivka recalled.

Instead, Michael's condition rapidly worsened. His cough became so severe that he could no longer speak, and he resorted to sending a WhatsApp message to his family to inform them he was being placed on a ventilator. Two weeks later, doctors delivered the devastating news that he would not recover. The family was told life support would be withdrawn.

"It was a dark and terrifying time," Rivka said. "I feared the worst every time the phone rang."

Mili was discharged after one week but has never fully recovered. She now rarely leaves her home, suffering from long-term effects including breathlessness, chronic confusion, and persistent stomach pain.

## Three Years of Testimony: The Scope of the Covid Inquiry

The final week of hearings included more than eight hours of deeply emotional testimony from bereaved relatives. Since public hearings commenced in June 2023, the inquiry has gathered oral evidence from 381 witnesses across London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast, while reviewing an extraordinary 600,000 documents — ranging from WhatsApp messages to personal diary entries.

The inquiry examined testimony not only from prime ministers, senior government officials, and leading scientists, but also from frontline workers including hospital porters, cleaners, care workers, and nurses who lived through the crisis firsthand.

In total, 42 bereaved relatives have given evidence since the hearings began, with 12 chosen to testify during the final two days alone.

### The Staggering Human and Financial Cost

More than 227,000 people in the UK died with Covid listed as a cause on their death certificate between March 2020 and May 2023, when the World Health Organization officially declared an end to the global health emergency.

The inquiry itself has become one of the most expensive in British history. Costs have climbed to £204 million, with the government spending an additional £111 million on its own legal representation and staffing.

The final phase of hearings this winter focused on the pandemic's broader societal impact — including the closure of sporting venues, cultural institutions, and religious facilities, as well as the treatment of vulnerable populations and the widespread deterioration of mental health across the UK.

## 'The Doors Shut and That Was It'

Time and again, families described the anguish of being separated from dying loved ones due to strict social distancing measures — a wound that for many has never fully healed.

Glen Grundle from Coleraine in Northern Ireland described watching his 73-year-old mother, Milda, leave in an ambulance in April 2020. He never saw her again.

"The doors shut and that was it," he said. "I have no closure and no peace over it."

Other families spoke of the immense frustration of being unable to obtain clear information from hospitals and care homes. Many said they felt shut out — unable to ask questions or receive honest updates about their relatives' deteriorating conditions.

### Funerals Without Comfort, Grief Without Community

Pandemic restrictions also fundamentally altered the way people were able to mourn. Funeral attendance was capped at various points, and social distancing rules prevented relatives from offering or receiving physical comfort during their darkest moments.

Only nine people — including the rabbi — were permitted to attend Michael Gottlieb's funeral in April 2020. The remainder of his family and friends were forced to watch memorial prayers through a video link. Rivka was unable to embrace her grieving mother or participate in the traditional Jewish ritual of throwing earth onto the coffin.

"I remember how unreal it all felt, and that we were still in a state of shock," she said. "My mother was completely isolated, and the impact of her grief has been profound, complex and far-reaching."

Families from Northern Ireland and Scotland recounted being unable to hold traditional wakes. Others described returning home alone after funerals to empty, silent houses.

Sharon Boswell, whose husband George died from Covid in February 2021 at just 52 years old, captured the weight of that isolation with quiet devastation.

"I remember sitting on the sofa, the TV was on, but no one was home with me," she said. "I thought: I'm sitting here by myself. I've just had a funeral for my husband. I felt very isolated, I felt alone, I felt unhappy — just everything you possibly could feel."

## A Nation Still Processing Its Grief

As the Covid inquiry formally concludes its public hearing stage, the testimony of these families serves as a sobering reminder that behind every statistic lies a deeply personal story of loss, longing, and the enduring need for answers. The inquiry's findings and recommendations are expected to shape how the UK prepares for — and responds to — future public health emergencies.

The UK Covid inquiry concludes three years of hearings as bereaved families give final testimony on isolation, loss, and the pandemic's lasting emotional toll.