Those with social care jobs might be interested to hear of a breakthrough in treatment for stroke damage, which The BBC reports.

The breakthrough is a new drug, derived from the spice turmeric which scientists think could help repair damage to the body immediately following a stroke. Drug tests carried out by researchers at Cedars-Siani Medical Centre in Los Angeles have been encouraging and further trials will commence shortly.

Common problems that stroke victims experience, says The Stroke Association, include physical pain, weakness or paralysis, poor balance, speech difficulties and difficulties with mental processes. About 150,000 people have strokes every year in the UK and it is the third most common cause of death.

The new drug reaches brain cells and reduces muscle and movement problems. It may be effective up to three hours after a stroke. The doctor who led the study, Paul Lapchak said to The BBC: "The drug appeared to have an effect on several critical mechanisms which might keep brain cells alive after a stroke." 

Dr Sharlin Ahmed of The Stroke Association said: "This is the first significant research to show that turmeric could be beneficial to stroke patients by encouraging new cells to grow and preventing cell death after a stroke. 

"The results look promising, however it is still very early days and human trials need to be undertaken."