Six months after the Brexit referendum, where does Britain stand? | The Economist

The Economist argues that the debate over Brexit has so far been more about process than about substance. In 2017 that will change—and the going may get tougher. But the Economist concludes that at least some common sense is beginning to  emerge.

Source: Six months after the Brexit referendum, where does Britain stand? | The Economist

As a keen follower of Brexit news I agree that common sense might be beginning to emerge. But the thing to really watch is compromise – of course, it’s too early to talk about such tactics because the negotiations proper have not yet started.

Also the context has changed. The terrorist incident in Berlin will strengthen the case for immigration controls – people are fearful of governments who open their arms to potential terrorists. Similarly, nationalism is on the rise in France, with Marine le Pen now a serious candidate for presidency. Meanwhile, in the UK, the Labour Party is imploding and rapidly losing power, leaving Theresa May‘s government with a stronger position in parliament than the simple majority infers. But the UK is a deeply divided society and May will need to be cautious of a populist push-back against unpopular policies.

Although I voted ‘Remain’, I am a realist, so am beginning to bond again with Brexit supporting friends.

Thoughts?

 

 

 

Does it matter how you lower your cholesterol? – Harvard Health

This is worth a read from Harvard Health. The article argues that certain cholesterol-lowering medications—namely, ezetimibe (Zetia) and drugs known as bile acid binders—also appear to be effective at lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events. It’s not clear whether they are proposed as alternatives to statins ot supplements..

Source: Does it matter how you lower your cholesterol? – Harvard Health

The mainstream scientific research community, along with public health practitioners strongly favor statins because of their proven effectiveness and most importantly, their low cost. Medical practitioners seem slow to recognize the serious side affects.

My problem with the medical establishment is that they seem to be too quick to offer statins after applying simplistic risk assessment formulas, ignoring wider patient data.

With more than 25% of Americans over forty taking statins, surely they have a right to know about the side affects of statins and consider the other options?

Thoughts?