A new study suggests that a common diabetes drug may help preserve eyesight, while a landmark trial accuses social media giants of creating "addiction machines" and AI chatbots are flagged for providing inaccurate medical advice. Additionally, BP is stepping up cost-cutting measures as profits decline.
According to research from the University of Liverpool, people with diabetes over 55 who took metformin, a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes, were 37% less likely to develop intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD) over five years. The study, which analyzed eye pictures from 2,000 individuals, indicates a potential benefit of the drug in slowing age-related vision loss, as reported by Fox News.
Meanwhile, a trial in California has begun, with accusations against Instagram and YouTube's owners for building "addiction machines." Mark Lanier, representing the plaintiff "K.G.M.," argued that the social media platforms intentionally designed their products to addict users, leading to mental health issues. Lawyers for Meta and YouTube countered that the plaintiff's addiction stemmed from other underlying issues, as detailed by BBC Technology. The trial is examining the mental health effects of social media addiction.
In the realm of technology, a University of Oxford study revealed that AI chatbots provide inaccurate and inconsistent medical advice, posing potential risks to users. Researchers found that individuals seeking healthcare advice from AI received a mix of reliable and unreliable responses, making it difficult to discern trustworthy information. Dr. Rebecca Payne, the lead medical practitioner on the study, stated that it could be "dangerous" for people to rely on chatbots for symptom diagnosis, as reported by BBC Technology. Polling by Mental Health UK in November 2025 indicated that over one in three UK residents were using AI for mental health or wellbeing support.
In the business sector, BP announced a drop in annual profits, reporting 7.5 billion in 2025, down from 8.9 billion the previous year, and increased its cost-cutting targets. The oil giant was impacted by a 20% fall in crude prices. BP also suspended its share buyback program and reduced spending to strengthen its finances. The company has shifted its strategy away from renewable energy projects to refocus on oil and gas operations. Meg O'Neill, the new boss, is expected to continue this trend, according to BBC Business.
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