Natural methods of cleaning the teeth and mouth have existed for years in Africa. Although modern method of oral health is gaining prominence, rural communities still rely on toothbrushes made from trees while using substances like salt and ash. But how safe are these substances for cleaning the teeth and mouth?

People often need a mental health diagnosis to access ongoing therapy. Some psychiatrists and psychologists say the requirement is pushing them to pathologize normal distress or diagnose stigmatized conditions too early.

The World Health Organization warned that hospitals are running dangerously low on medical supplies, as fighting between federal and Tigrayan forces intensify following a lull in the conflict between March and August.

Jerome Ngutor had trouble with a persistent stomach ache but like many Nigerians, he did not have money to see a doctor. Then he heard about a novel idea to get health insurance - collect waste material and trade it for cover.

Germany's health minister, Karl Lauterbach, says death threats — not only against him, but also his children — have become a part of everyday life.

As concern grows over the climate crisis, so does its toll on our mental well-being. Public health officials have coined the term "eco-anxiety" to describe the fear of environmental doom. They warn that the phenomenon could have damaging long-term effects and amplify health and social inequalities for the most vulnerable. One recent international survey found that large numbers of 16 to 25 year olds worldwide had suffered psychological effects owing to the climate crisis. We take a closer look at the situation in France.

Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Thursday.⁣

Women are nearly twice as likely as men to develop Alzheimer's disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , but there is little understanding of why exactly this is. The condition is the most common form of dementia, and it affected 5.8 million North Americans in 2020.

Somalia's health practitioners overwhelmed as conflict intensifies amid severe drought

The mpox public health emergency was declared over the summer, as the country struggled to contain the soaring number of infections. However, cases have receded since, with vaccination going strong.

With fewer than 24 hours left until the beginning of the end of the action in Qatar, there are fears for France as Raphaël Varane and Ibrahima Konaté become the latest players to fall ill. Meanwhile, FIFA boss Gianni Infantino hails the tournament as "the best World Cup ever", and we discuss whether the mental health of players is being properly considered by football authorities.

The inter-ministerial watchdog set up to monitor and fight against sects in France has released its latest findings on everything from online coaches to conspiracists, neo-Shamans and would-be healers. The alarming report from MIVILUDES states that since 2020 – and especially since the coronavirus pandemic – such movements are on the rise and are spreading worrying quantities of misinformation when it comes to healthcare.