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The first cases of H5N1 bird flu have been confirmed following the discovery and rescue of a sick bird on a remote beach in Western Australia. Since then more sick birds have been reported, with authorities stressing the safest approach is to take a photo and notify them. While the risk of bird to human transmission is low, there have been almost one thousand cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans since 2003. So what happens now? Further information: Bird flu (avian influenza) CDC Human infections wit...
The first cases of H5N1 bird flu have been confirmed following the discovery and rescue of a sick bird on a remote beach in Western Australia. Since then more sick birds have been reported, with authorities stressing the safest approach is to take a photo and notify them. While the risk of bird to human transmission is low, there have been almost one thousand cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans since 2003. So what happens now? Further information: Bird flu (avian influenza) CDC Human infections wit...
A new review brings together data from studies worldwide and shows that the impact of alcohol has been underestimated, but that changing drinking habits can reverse and slow down damage. Should gyms turn the volume down on the loud music they play while patrons are working out? The donated brains of Parkinson's patients are analysed, showing that the original clinical diagnoses are incorrect in up to twenty percent of cases. And a study shows survivors of Ebola can experience longer term neurolo...
Genomic testing is cheaper than ever and can pick up a risk of disease in people with no family history. Should we expand it nation-wide? IUDs are a highly effective form of contraception, but some women are concerned about pain. A new study looks at how commonly women experience pain on insertion and why. Researchers have criticised the current state of peer review for scientific grants in Australia, arguing the process lacks transparency and opportunities for appeal. And the TGA is cracking do...
The Health Report delves into the science behind exercise and biological aging, examining a meta-analysis on epigenetic clocks. It also covers the alarming withdrawal of the breast cancer and endometriosis drug Zoladex from Australia and proposed changes that could severely restrict abortion access. Further discussion highlights new bulk billing requirements causing significant problems for remote Aboriginal health services and the concerning rise of AI chatbot use for youth mental health.
The Health Report investigates a new study revealing how restricting and resuming healthy daily habits significantly impacts mental well-being, offering insights into depression prevention. It also provides an in-depth update on Australia's escalating diphtheria outbreak, focusing on spread, vaccination, and social determinants. Additionally, the episode examines the critical role of maintenance in healthy housing for remote communities and reviews the latest evidence on calcium and vitamin D for fracture prevention.
The popularity of peptides appears to be growing in Australia - what do we know about who is using them, what's in them and the risks? A large study of Australians with Parkinson's disease finds links to certain pesticides and high-risk occupations. For people with heart failure, there's a procedure that you can avoid with no ill-effect. And an outbreak of diptheria across multiple states in Australia - how did this happen? References Obesity and cardiovascular disease: A clinical consensus stat...
The World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern over an outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. How does the disease spread, how can it be treated and how concerned should we be? Further Information: Why is there no vaccine for this Ebola outbreak? Ebola vaccine could take nine months as death toll rises further, WHO warns . Ebola disease in DRC and Uganda . Epidemic of Ebola Disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democra...
ACL injuries are very common in Australia - and the common thinking has been that if you tear your ACL, you'll need surgery. Researchers are arguing the best evidence says we should be looking to rehab first, and that for many people they will recover without surgery. Microplastics in our food supply - from processing and production - mean all of us are ingesting some level of plastic into our bodies. A new study out of Western Australia shows that it is possible to reduce your exposure, but it ...
Urgent care clinics are getting $1.8 billion in this year's federal budget to make them a permanent part of Australia's health system. We speak to the Health Minister Mark Butler about the decision. 'Fitspo' content that sometimes glamourises a ripped bod or restrictive ways of eating could be flooding your social feed - what do we know about its effect on our mental health? And 'phage therapy' - a novel form of treatment aimed at providing an alternative to antibiotics. What are bacteriophages,...
The Health Report discusses groundbreaking research identifying potential biomarkers for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, offering hope for more definitive diagnoses beyond exclusion. It also uncovers concerning socioeconomic disparities in the investigation of bowel cancer symptoms in general practice. Additionally, the episode features a compelling story of a woman who detected her breast cancer through the My Health Record app, prompting a discussion on the system's benefits, current limitations for clinicians, and ongoing efforts to improve its functionality and accessibility for all Australians.
Two thirds of women report concerns over memory loss, concentration or other cognitive symptoms during menopause. What do we understand about what's going on, and how can it be managed? A new plan for improving asthma outcomes in Australia and ending that reliance on the blue puffer. Understanding how the genes we're born with could shape our risk of some cancers in childhood - with implications for adults too. And the links between home cooking and dementia - with studies suggesting slicing and...
Can you trust the advice ChatGPT Health gives about whether you should go to the hospital or not? Who is using GLP-1 weight loss drugs and how common are they? New guidelines for supporting young people with suicidal ideation or who self-harm. And more findings that drugs removing amyloid from the brain don't help prevent dementia. References: Intensive LDL Cholesterol Targeting in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Municipal water fluoridation, adolescent IQ, and cognition across the life c...
Delve into how medical crises are managed in the isolation of space and what lessons Antarctica offers for astronaut health. The episode also unpacks a groundbreaking study on GLP-1s and mental health, uncovers the risks of incidental findings from routine shoulder scans, and discusses recent findings on adolescent mental health, highlighting the protective roles of school connection and sleep. Additionally, a historical retraction in The Lancet regarding talcum powder safety is examined, alongside an engaging debate on managing appendicitis.
Which flu strains are likely to be dominant this flu season - and what's the story with the new nasal spray vaccine? Speaking of sprays ... there's a simple saline spray that might help kids with sleep apnoea avoid surgery. And a treatment for enlarged prostate that doesn't involve going under the knife. Plus, a new review finds vaping is likely to cause certain types of cancer. References: The carcinogenicity of e-cigarettes: a qualitative risk assessment Cost-Effectiveness of Oral Immunotherap...
This episode explores how 3D printing is revolutionizing healthcare, from creating personalized surgical models and training tools to developing bioabsorbable implants and custom radiation therapy aids. It highlights the Hurston Biofabrication Institute's work in tissue engineering for burn patients and the future of resorbable materials. The second part of the episode features Kylie's poignant personal story of surviving a stroke in her early 30s, her recovery journey, and the challenges of raising a family post-stroke, offering unique insights from her children and friends.
There's been major buzz in recent years over ultra-processed foods and whether they may be harmful to our health. A new study out of Canada has measured what toddlers eat and how much of it is ultra-processed - and then followed up two years later to examine the behavioural outcomes of those same children. New findings on 'silent' women's health issues and where women would like the focus of healthcare research and spending to be - what the authors are saying is a call to go 'beyond the bikini l...
MDMA psychotherapy was approved in Australia three years ago. Who's using it and what do we know about treatment side effects? Vaccine reminders can help nudge people back on track, but how the message is framed matters. A new review of screen use and sleep in young people finds no link between the amount of use and sleep quality or duration. And a different way of looking at mental health outcomes - whether digital tools can help us forecast someone's future needs and provide better, more perso...
Are Australian schoolkids eating too much salt? And does it put them at risk of high blood pressure? A new approach to breast cancer screening based on risk could reduce the number of screens needed for some women. There's been a lot of hype around brain training to protect against cognitive decline, but the results haven't always measured up. Now a new long-term study has promising results. Plus, navigating the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis -- when can the condition be medically mana...
We know many people are turning to generative AI for health advice, including tips on how to manage stress, anxiety and low mood. When is it safe to turn to a chatbot, and when do you need to see a real human being? And what if you can't afford it? Also, a home review program that aims to get people off drugs they don't need to be on that might be negatively impacting their lives. And good news when it comes to Australia's goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035. References: Uptake and perform...
A paper has suggested exercise has minimal, short-term effects on osteoarthritis. But experts are warning people with the condition that they shouldn't stop moving. Also, school kids are being called on to help in the fight against superbugs. A new study shoots down low-dose aspirin for older people wanting to prevent cancer. And we take a look at another form of arthritis: gout. It's under-recognised and under-treated, but what can be done about it, and why is it such a complicated story? Refer...
Researchers have pin-pointed the best exercise routines for depression or anxiety symptoms, and they might be equal to medication and talk therapy. Also, why states and territories are making changes to their maternity care guidance for doctors. An update on Alzheimer's disease off the back of important vaccine discoveries. Why the packaging of statins might need an upgrade. And some clarity on beta blockers after a heart attack. Does everyone need to be taking them? References: Valacyclovir Tre...
When you pay for private health insurance, you might assume you'll be well covered if you get injured or fall ill. But a new report has revealed the huge costs that catch people off guard, and sometimes prevent them from receiving care. Also, a study hints that constant colds in childhood might not be business-as-usual and should be taken more seriously. And we talk through the Nipah virus outbreak in India, and changes in Victoria to ADHD medication prescribing. References: Nipah and Hendra Vir...
Many people turning to AI for health advice are doing it for valid reasons — it's cheap, fast and isn't bound by a 15-minute timer. But the checks and balances companies use to ensure their products are safe, or even accurate, aren't open to public scrutiny. Also on the show, medical abortion is available up to nine weeks in Australia. There's a push to allow access later. And the much-maligned fat cell gets a look-in from a world-leading expert. References First step towards a national medicine...
If you're having a month off the beers to kick off the year, do you know what a short stretch of sobriety could achieve? Some companies in the United States are even pushing people to trade their alcohol for THC, for "high" January. Also, there hasn't been a big COVID spike over the holidays, but the flu has been going around. People aren't accessing palliative care early enough to reap the benefits, but are there enough services to go around? And a study finds women notified of their breast den...
How far would you go to save your dog? One owner has used ChatGPT and other AI models to find a treatment for his pup's cancer. Also, we could be missing cases of liver disease because of differences between pathology centres. The final instalment of Stroke of Luck, a series on the experience of having a stroke and the recovery process. And a look back at the year: does artificial intelligence have a place in your local doctors' office? References What AI scribes can (and can't) do for healthcar...
The Health Report explores evolving advice for knee osteoarthritis, highlighting how pain education and proper exercise can significantly improve mobility, even for challenging feats like walking the Camino. It critically examines Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial claims about autism, vaccines, and paracetamol, dispelling common myths and addressing the widespread impact of health misinformation. Additionally, the episode delves into the crucial need for eating disorder screening and multidisciplinary care for individuals considering GLP-1 weight loss medications, acknowledging the pervasive influence of diet culture. Personal accounts of stroke recovery are shared, detailing both humorous and challenging experiences, including the search for
This episode explores health anxiety, its debilitating effects, and effective treatments, including a look into "cyberchondria." It also examines the rising use of antidepressants in Australia, focusing on long-term risks and the importance of safe deprescribing. Additionally, it features an inspiring story of a woman's recovery from cancer and stroke through mindfulness, alongside an overview of 2025's infectious disease trends.
There's a paradox in neurodegenerative disease – sometimes as the brain deteriorates, creativity flourishes. Researchers have used imaging techniques to map creativity in the brains of people with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Also, the exercise program that could change the game for colorectal cancer survivors. And a look back at the year: GLP-1 medications for weight loss. References Answering common questions about GLP-1s for weight loss Weight loss drugs could help people with schizophrenia G...
The episode delves into significant health topics, starting with the benefits and risks of replacing table salt with potassium-enriched alternatives for better heart health, and challenges in its widespread adoption. It highlights the urgent need for genetic carrier screening, exemplified by Mackenzie's Mission, detailing its process, available options, and barriers to access. Furthermore, the podcast explores the controversial yet potentially vital role of artificial intelligence in predicting patient preferences for end-of-life care, examining the ethical dilemmas, privacy concerns, and the crucial need for trust and transparency in such sensitive applications. Finally, it reviews the "Make America Healthy Again" movement's profound effects on US and global public health policies, including vaccine controversies and funding cuts.
