The BMJ’s Christmas issue, previously known as the British Medical Journal, has become a highlight for unique and quirky research. Beginning in 1982, this annual issue has grown in popularity, welcoming both scientists and the general public. The issue has become a coveted place for unconventional research, and getting published is a notable achievement.

Researchers and contributors strive to get their work included, with July 31 as the deadline for research and August 31 for essays and features. Each year, hundreds of submissions are reviewed, but only a few make it to the final publication. Editors such as Jenny Rasanathan and Timothy Feeney play key roles, meticulously reviewing each submission through a series of meetings.

Timothy explains the goal of the issue, saying, “We want physicians to enjoy intriguing and sometimes amusing content during their break over the holidays.” Each edition covers a range of interesting topics. For example, Jenny’s favorite is a quantitative analysis of acceptable free food consumption. Another popular study compares the work-life balance of virtual doctors in ‘The Sims 4’ to real-life doctors, highlighting similar challenges.

The Christmas issue includes fascinating topics such as:

• Taking the biscuit: Determining socially acceptable quantities of free snacks.
• I tried to survive as a Doctor in The Sims 4: Explores virtual and real-life doctor struggles.
• Things that go BONG! in the night: Investigates the impact of clock tower sounds on sleep.
• Does Peppa Pig encourage inappropriate use of primary care resources?
• Anticipating the ageing trajectories of superheroes in the Marvel cinematic universe

Listeners can enjoy these captivating discussions on Short Wave, available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. The episode was produced and reported by Liz Metzger and Margaret Cirino, edited by Rebecca Ramirez, with audio contributions from Hannah Gluvna.