Deep Dive

Welcome to this Deep Dive on a report, compiled by a committee of experts from various universities and organisations, that examines misinformation about science. It explores the sources, spread, and impacts of this misinformation, considering factors such as digital platforms, industry influence, and societal inequalities. The report also analyses existing interventions to counter misinformation,...

We discuss a research article that. reports on a large-scale, non-randomised study evaluating the effectiveness of ring vaccination, alongside standard Ebola virus disease (EVD) control measures, during the 2018-2020 outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The study involved vaccinating over 265,000 individuals, primarily contacts and contacts-of-contacts of EVD cases, with the rVSV-ZEBO...

We discuss the latest World Bank report that assesses the economic prospects of low-income countries (LICs), noting a marked slowdown in their progress towards middle-income status since 2010. The report analyses the macroeconomic features of LICs, highlighting challenges such as conflict, climate change, and weak institutions, alongside opportunities like demographic dividends and natural resourc...

In this Deep Dive , we explore the findings of Focus on Labour Exploitation's (FLEX) latest report on the challenges faced by asylum seekers in the UK as they navigate the complex process of gaining permission to work. Through compelling interviews with asylum seekers and support workers, the report sheds light on critical barriers such as limited access to information and legal aid, lengthy waiti...

In this Deep Dive , we discuss the report from the UK Health Security Agency that details respiratory virus surveillance in England during the final week of 2024. Key findings show high influenza activity, baseline COVID-19 levels, and low respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity. The report uses various data sources, including laboratory testing, general practitioner consultations, and hospital...

In this episode, we explore the findings of the Global Water Monitor 2024 Report, unpacking the alarming trends of record-breaking droughts, devastating floods, and the growing precipitation paradox. From the cascading impacts of climate change to the surprising resilience of global vegetation, we discuss how these changes are reshaping our world. Join us as we navigate through real-world stories...

This Deep Dive focuses on the Surgeon General's 2025 Advisory that highlights the strong causal link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, citing numerous studies showing increased risk for at least seven cancer types. The advisory emphasises that even moderate drinking increases cancer risk, and that public awareness of this remains low. Key recommendations include updating alcohol warning...

Dive deep into the fascinating world of dental health as we unpack the latest UK parliamentary report on water fluoridation. Discover the shocking statistics about children's dental health in England, explore the science behind fluoride, and join the debate on whether water fluoridation is the ultimate solution. From innovative programs like Scotland’s Child Smile to alternative treatments such as...

UNICEF's   State of the World's Children 2024  report examines the future of childhood, focusing on the world in 2050.  Three megatrends —demographic shifts, climate and environmental crises, and frontier technologies—are identified as shaping children's lives. The report presents  various scenarios  illustrating potential outcomes based on different levels of progress, highlighting the significan...

We discuss this government report responds to the Climate Change Committee's 2024 Progress Report, outlining the UK's actions to accelerate its net-zero targets. The report details immediate actions taken, including lifting the onshore wind ban and launching initiatives like Great British Energy, to meet the Clean Energy Superpower Mission. It also addresses recommendations from the CCC across var...

State of the Climate 2024: A Deep Dive into COP29 Findings In this inaugural episode of Deep Dive , we explore the State of the Climate 2024 report released at COP29 by the World Meteorological Organization. Together, we unravel the data behind record-breaking global heat, greenhouse gas spikes, melting ice, and rising sea levels, and connect these planetary changes to their human impacts—ranging...