At-home saliva test for prostate cancer better than blood test?
A new at-home saliva test assessing genetic risk has shown greater accuracy than the current PSA blood test in detecting prostate cancer, according to a major UK study. The spit test, which evaluates 130 genetic variants to calculate a polygenic risk score (PRS), was found to be more effective at identifying aggressive prostate cancers than traditional PSA testing. Led by Prof Ros Eeles at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, the study demonstrated that 40% of high-risk men flagged by the test were diagnosed with cancer, compared to 25% diagnosed through PSA testing. Moreover, the saliva test detected a higher proportion of aggressive cancers. This non-invasive, inexpensive tool could improve early diagnosis and reduce unnecessary treatments linked to false positives from PSA tests. Researchers are also developing updated versions of the test tailored for men of Asian and African heritage. While further research is needed to confirm long-term outcomes, experts hope the PRS test could soon revolutionise screening for men most at risk, offering better protection and peace of mind.
‘Christians fed up with being pushed out’: protests over cancelled Easter
Around fifty Christians protested outside Norwood Primary School in Eastleigh, after the school cancelled its traditional Easter bonnet parade and church service. Headteacher Stephanie Mander informed parents that the decision aimed to foster an inclusive environment, opting instead for classroom lessons and craft activities about the meaning of Easter. Protesters accused the school of marginalising Christianity. Banners declared messages like 'Jesus is King' and 'Let’s cancel her’, referring to the headteacher. Protesters distributed Easter eggs and prayed collectively at the end of the demonstration. A smaller counter-protest of parents defended the school’s decision, citing concerns about promoting division and noting financial pressures on families that may have influenced the cancellation. Police were present, but no arrests were made. The event has reignited broader concerns among some Christians about feeling increasingly sidelined within educational institutions and society at large.
‘Germany is back’ after Merz secures coalition agreement
Germany's conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, have formed a coalition with the Social Democrats, ending five months of political uncertainty. Merz, 69, promised strong leadership, reforms, and renewed international confidence, declaring, ‘Germany is back on track’. The coalition plans major investments in defence and infrastructure, made possible by reforms to strict debt rules. A key focus is controlling irregular migration and restoring voter trust. Despite pressure from the far-right AfD, which recently topped opinion polls, Merz promised to balance firm border policies with democratic values. The coalition also pledges increased military spending and voluntary service, following Sweden’s model. Boris Pistorius will remain as defence minister, ensuring continuity. Support for Ukraine and fulfilling NATO commitments are central to the agenda. While critics question the coalition’s ability to end the recession, Merz remains optimistic.
Hungary: Orban welcomes Netanyahu, withdraws from ICC
Benjamin Netanyahu has praised Hungary for its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC) during a four-day visit to Budapest, marking a rare foreign trip for him since the ICC issued an arrest warrant against him for alleged war crimes in Gaza. Prime minister Viktor Orban, a staunch ally of Netanyahu, condemned the ICC's warrant as politically motivated and announced Hungary's intention to leave the court. Israel has also rejected the ICC’s accusations, arguing that they were driven by antisemitism and undermined Israel's right to self-defence. Hungary, as a founding member of the ICC, is still technically bound by its commitments; the process of withdrawal will take about a year. Other European countries are split on the validity of the warrant: some have expressed legal doubts. Netanyahu left on 6 April for Washington: the USA is not a member of the ICC, and neither are China or Russia.
I am heartened to report much encouraging progress across our 15 developing IPC Regional Prayer Councils already this year! Here's just a few snippets... I was honored to meet with our South Asia Director, Onassis Jeevaraj, IPC Senior Adviser, Tom Victor (pictured) and other leaders from India and neighboring nations in February. During our time together we prayer walked during the Maha Kumbh Mela, which had 120 million Hindus participating there that day.
Pentecost Global Day of Prayer – 8-9 June 2025 from 20:00HRS Jerusalem (UTC+3)
In a world aching for justice, revival, and hope, Dr. Jason Hubbard calls believers to a life of persistent, faith-filled intercession. Learn how night-and-day prayer, rooted in God’s Word and overflowing with hope, can shift cities, release justice, and welcome Christ’s return. This inspiring editorial will stir your spirit and awaken fresh vision for your prayer life. Don’t miss this timely and prophetic message!
Together, over 100 million believers prayed from Latin America to China, in homes, churches, and prayer rooms - 120 houses of prayer hosted 24/7 prayer!
Let’s keep praying until Jesus receives the full reward for His suffering!