Health Report

Епизоди

• 
  Why you should speed up your steps, even just in short bursts. 12.09.2026 44мин

  A study looking at step intensity and step count provides helpful advice for those who are limited in their time and ability to increase the number of steps and their pace. The pharmaceutical company closest to getting a drug to market to reduce Lipoprotein (a) levels announced that while it reduces levels of these molecules, that didn’t translate into fewer cardiovascular events.  A gene study provides further evidence that cerebral palsy may be a collection of symptoms, rather than a disease and indicates doing a genetic panel early on could improve treatment of affected children. References Combinations of stepping intensity and daily step counts against all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality: insights from a device-based prospective study Novartis announces Lp(a)HORIZON Phase III topline results for pelacarsen in patients with elevated Lp(a) and established cardiovascular disease (CVD) A phenotypic paradigm for cerebral palsy genetics Salpingectomy for the Prevention of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Ovarian cancer doesn't start in the ovaries Study on degenerative brain disease finds CTE in 31 former rugby league players BMJ: Prevalence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy at death in National Football League players: retrospective population based cohort study, 2008-21 Brisbane Coroner's Court: Non inquest findings into the death of Conor Dean
• 
  Validation for people living with chronic pain 05.09.2026 45мин

  An international study of the genes of 2.5 million people confirms fibromyalgia as a nervous system disorder. A rheumatologist explains the relationship to other disorders including CFS/ME and long COVID. Women of reproductive age are getting iron infusions at an increasingly high rate. What’s causing the numbers to rise so sharply and who is missing out? Cuts to USAID are having big impacts on spread of HIV in Africa, according to a leading South African expert. What can we learn from their experience about how to manage the growing spread of the disease in Fiji and elsewhere in our region? References Nature Medicine: The genetic architecture of fibromyalgia across 2.5 million individuals Increasing utilisation of intravenous iron among Australian women of reproductive age, 2013–2024: an Australian population-based study Pacific Beat: Australia boosts Fiji's HIV crisis response with new $8 million funding Maternal RSVpreF Vaccine Effectiveness Against Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Hospitalized Infants New England Journal of Medicine: Atorvastatin, Cardiovascular Events, and Disability-free Survival in Older Adults The BMJ: Measles: CDC refuses to record Pennsylvania fatalities in “measles associated deaths” row    
• 
  Same work but no training pathway for unaccredited registrars 29.08.2026 48мин

  It's become harder for medical students to qualify as a fully accredited specialist. This delay is having a profound impact on the wellbeing of doctors and on access to specialists across Australia.  A new study shows people experiencing 'gout flares' more frequently have a higher likelihood of developing heart disease. In the news: Twenty years ago, the first dose of the HPV vaccine developed to prevent cervical cancer was administered. What's the impact of the research that led to this, from University of Queensland's Emeritus Professor Ian Frazer AC and his colleague Dr Jian Zhou? A Select Committee on Women's Health will look for the first time at post-partum care and pregnancy, amongst other issues that will support women. Submissions close on October 9. Genetic markers for stress have been investigated in donated brain tissue of people with schizophrenia, showing stress genes had been turned on. Two more people have died of measles in the United States  References Royal Australasian College of Surgeons 2026-2030 Surgical Pathways Strategy Department of Health: Whole of Medical Workforce Supply and Demand Study Annual gout flare frequency as a marker of sustained cardiovascular risk: a clinical threshold for risk stratification 20 years. Millions of lives saved. One revolutionary vaccine Select Committee on Women's Health Association Between Age-Dependent DNA Methylation Changes at FKBP5 Enhancer Sites and Increased Cortical Gene Expression in Schizophrenia Pennsylvania Department of Health Confirms Two Measles-Associated Deaths  
• 
  Will this help more men get prostate checkups? 22.08.2026 42мин

  New clinical guidelines for early detection of prostate cancer make big changes to screening, with an end to the digital examination and more frequent PSA tests in older age groups. A new global study suggests people over sixty may face serious health risks from heat at much lower temperatures than previously understood. Overuse of active skincare is one of the causes of peri-orificial dermatitis. We ask a dermatologist about the best way to treat it. References Guidelines for the early detection of prostate cancer Lancet Planet Health: Exceeding human heat tolerance in a warming, ageing world: a global projection modelling study ABC Health: People over 60 face heat exposure danger at lower temperatures, study suggests National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2025: Tobacco, e-cigarettes and other nicotine insights WHO Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus - Democratic Republic of the Congo TGA flexes its muscle against illegal peptides and steroids Melanotan II tanning peptide products found to be inconsistently dosed
• 
  BMI fails the test as a predictor of disease risk 15.08.2026 44мин

  A study shows waist to hip ratio (WHR) and waist circumference (WC) should be included with BMI when assessing patients with abdominal fat for risk of cardiovascular disease. A new rapid 'lateral flow' test is being trialled in the hope it will provide faster and more accurate results to help detect and treat iron deficiencies. We follow up on our earlier story about the lack of access to medical abortion services for women in rural and remote areas. Guest/s Dr Michael Blaha, Professor of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for Cardiovascular Disease Emily Eriksson, Senior Research Officer in immunology and infectious diseases, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute Dr Rod Martin, President, Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine References JACC: Risk Reclassification Beyond BMI by Waist Circumference and Waist-to-Hip Ratio Across 9 Cardiovascular Outcomes: Results From the Cross-Cohort Collaboration BMJ: Longitudinal trends and characteristics of medication abortion provision in Australian general practice: a national open-cohort study using Medicine Insight, 2014 to 2021 Nature: First poo transplant to treat food allergy in people has ‘exciting’ results Eli Lilly CEO still wants deal to bring Mounjaro to Australia under PBS Trump signs order to reduce childhood vaccines and break up MMR shots
• 
  Kate has a history of anorexia. Why was she prescribed weight loss jabs? 08.08.2026 52мин

  ‘Kate’ has a history of anorexia nervosa and was once hospitalised for the condition. Yet she was able to access GLP1s to control her weight via a telehealth provider, without being screened for an eating disorder.  Surveys of acute pancreatitis are currently underway around Australia, in response to an increase in cases globally. A study from South Australia shows some surprising results with an increased incidence in young people, women and those from a higher socio-economic background. If you or anyone you know needs help with an eating disorder:  Butterfly Foundation on 1800 334 673 National Eating Disorder Collaboration Lifeline on 131 114   References AHPRA statement on telehealth providers not screening for eating disorders JAMA Psychiatry: Use and Misuse of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Among People With Eating Disorders Epidemiological time trends in acute pancreatitis – A 16-year experience from South Australia Rise in drug-related deaths and hospitalisations driven by stimulants, annual NDARC reports find Global Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol—Leveraging Estimation for Action | Cardiology | JAMA | JAMA Network Laureates of the 2026 L'Oreal UNESCO for Women in Science International Awards Vitamin B6: too much, too little, too late? An analysis of sales trends in Australia from 2023 to 2025  
• 
  An Alzheimer's blood test is on the way. What could that mean for you? 01.08.2026 43мин

  Clinicians, researchers, government and industry partners have come together in a new arrangement to trial a blood test that uses biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease, in the hope it will aid diagnosis. A new vaccine developed to treat the latest outbreak of ebolavirus is already being tested on humans. But the organisation behind it has also invested in three other vaccines, in case the trials aren't successful.  Less than one third of general practices provide medical abortion in Australia, with access and support influenced by geographic location and socio-economic status. References Test that could identify signs of Alzheimer's disease 20 years earlier greenlit for trials Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation Longitudinal trends and characteristics of medication abortion provision in Australian general practice: a national open-cohort study using Medicine Insight, 2014 to 2021 Saliva test for endometriosis lacks real-world evidence, Australian experts say Vitamin K Prophylaxis in Newborns and Bleeding in Infancy Blood tests and ultrasounds: Korea is becoming one of the world's global healthcare hubs
• 
  When is a child ready for their own smartphone? 25.07.2026 43мин

  A new study looks at the health benefits of holding off on a child's smartphone by one year. Is there a "best" age to let them have their own device? Despite the lack of subsidies for CGM devices that monitor glucose levels for those with type 2 diabetes,  research shows continuous glucose monitoring can be beneficial for those living with the condition. There is now clear evidence that having high blood pressure as a child can influence health outcomes later in life. New clinical guidelines recommend measuring blood pressure twice during childhood and adolescence, beginning at age 7. References Smartphone Acquisition and Use at Age 13 Years and Health Outcomes at Age 14 Years Continuous glucose monitoring versus self-monitoring of blood glucose in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a randomised, multicentre, open-label, superiority trial Diabetes Australia statement Australian Guideline for the Identification and Management of Hypertension in Children and Adolescents Update on access to goserelin 3.6 mg implant Cost of accessing mental health services for young people New England Journal of Medicine: Meningococcal B Vaccine to Prevent Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infection More than 11,500 cyclosporiasis cases reported in 41 states: CDC    
• 
  What can you really learn from a biological ageing test? 18.07.2026 43мин

  There's a race going on in Silicon Valley to find ways to slow down ageing and monetise longevity. Some of the tools used to measure this are biological age tests that give various health readings. Can you biohack your way to reverse ageing?  Parents and caregivers of adolescents can worry about the side effects of taking oral medications for acne. A new study into the use of isotretinoin found no association with reduced adult height.  A newly updated human-infective RNA virus dataset may be used to find patterns that help predict what a future virus, or ‘disease x’ might look like.  References Four Corners: The Race to Reverse Aging Isotretinoin Treatment in Adolescence and Adult Height A complete catalogue of human-infective RNA viruses UK begins trials of Ebola vaccine developed in just eight weeks Future pharmacy: A better deal for patients and taxpayers Pete Hegseth announces plan to test US troops for low testosterone  
• 
  Who should be allowed to prescribe medications? 11.07.2026 43мин

  A review of the evidence for community pharmacist prescribing has reopened the debate about who should be able to prescribe, and a legislative change means some registered nurses with special training will soon be authorised to prescribe a number of medicines on the PBS too. Australia's Health 2026 report shows that dementia has overtaken coronary heart disease as the leading cause of death in Australia,  and rising obesity rates are a contributor. A new study assessed three parameters in the diets of Swedish participants who were at risk of dementia. Can the quality of your diet really make a difference? A follow up of patients admitted to intensive care units around Australia with sepsis and septic shock, looked at the longer term effects of this life threatening condition. References Community pharmacist prescribing outcomes in Australia and beyond Pharmacist prescribing: without evidence, it's the patient who pays RACGP-commissioned review confirms pharmacist prescribing improves access to care New law gives registered nurses PBS prescribing rights for the first time Sexual orientation and gender identity based disparities in colorectal, cervical, and breast cancer screening in the United States US study on cancer screening access and what it means for Australia USyd CEC response Australian cancer trials are getting worse at reporting sex differences - putting patients at risk Australia's health 2026 (AIHW) Diet Quality and Dementia Risk in Older Adults With Alzheimer Pathology Long-term survival in patients discharged alive from hospital following an intensive care unit admission with sepsis or septic shock in Australia and New Zealand: an observational cohort study
• 
  Could a sleep supplement help reduce chronic pain? 04.07.2026 44мин

  While looking for ways to treat pain in those with musculoskeletal disorders, researchers examined studies in which sleep supplement melatonin had been used.  A study into the behaviour of immune cells in coeliac disease patients showed surprising results. Instead of being overactive, T cells in coeliac disease were subdued, and didn't survive as long as T cells from healthy people.  Spinal stimulators have been in use for many years, but the evidence for their benefit, or otherwise has been unclear until now. References Efficacy and effectiveness of melatonin for the management of musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of placebo and active controlled trials Functional immune profiling reveals CD4+ T cell dysregulation in coeliac disease (Immunology and Cell Biology, 2026) Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation plus locomotor training versus sham-stimulation plus locomotor training in chronic spinal cord injury (eWALK): a multicentre, triple-blind, randomised, sham-controlled trial The little-known cause of heart attack in young women Worsening Asthma Outcomes in Australian Adults: A Comparison of Stratified Sample Surveys in 2012 and 2021 Most Australians unaware of 'black triangle' medicine side effects reporting scheme: study New pneumococcal vaccine for adults on the NIP Statement from Invidior on removal of Sublocade from Australian market
• 
  Should we ban the use of controversial herbicide, paraquat? 27.06.2026 42мин

  A movement disorder specialist says the APVMA decision on the use of herbicide paraquat ignores evidence of the link with cases of Parkinson's disease. Analysis of patient data shows less than twenty percent of people attend a cardiac rehabilitation program after their hospital stay, despite the fact that it can make a huge difference to health outcomes.  There's been a substantial increase in vaccine concerns from parents, with changes to messaging on vaccines in the USA filtering through to Australia. A childhood immunisation expert outlines an approach to help turn this around. And a study shows most IVF add-on treatments do not result in more pregnancies. References: Statement from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority Chemical regulator approves restricted use of herbicide paraquat previously linked to Parkinson's disease Mapping patient outcomes associated with cardiac rehabilitation Childhood vaccine hesitancy, The New England Journal of Medicine Safety and effectiveness of ten common in-vitro fertilisation add-ons No evidence most IVF add-on treatments improve fertility Concerns regarding the public health risks associated with unapproved peptide products WA Health provides public health update following avian influenza detection in wild bird  
• 
  Bird flu has reached Australia. Now what? 22.06.2026 19мин

  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 with highly pathogenic avian influenza An overview of influenza H5 vaccines Science Show: Preparing for the next pandemic Vet chanced upon sick bird that turned out to be first H5 bird flu case  
• 
  Good and bad news on alcohol and disease risk 20.06.2026 44мин

  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 neurological symptoms, including memory loss. References: Neurological Manifestations in Adult Survivors of Ebola Virus Disease Internet Searches for Leucovorin, Folate, and Acetaminophen After a White House Autism Announcement Assignment of benefit changes delayed Ongoing access to Zoladex monthly implant in Australia - AstraZeneca A review of the relationship between dimensions of alcohol consumption and the burden of disease Pathology and Genetics in a Global Cohort of Parkinsonian Disorders Lower Music Volume Levels in Fitness Class and Perceived Exercise Intensity
• 
  A crackdown on unregulated peptides 13.06.2026 45мин

  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 down on unregulated peptides, saying they're a safety risk for consumers. Statement from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing in response to the Health Report. For more on peptides, listen to our recent story Who's using peptides, and do we know what's in them? References Diabetes society apologizes after removal of Trump protesters from conference sparks outrage Diabetes Association in uproar after members expelled from annual meeting over protest of NIH cuts Egg Allergy Prevalence Before and After Guidelines for Earlier Egg Introduction TGA strengthens compliance focus on unapproved peptide products as part of evolving risk response TGA cracks down on unregulated peptides, says increased imports are posing a risk to consumer safety Feasibility and outcomes of the DNA Screen nationwide adult genomic screening pilot Factors Associated With Pain Related to Insertion of a Contraceptive Intrauterine Device: Findings of a National Survey Australia’s erosion of peer review - Science
• 
  Does exercise lower your biological age? 06.06.2026 39мин

  Australia's specialist medical college for obstetrics and gynaecology is raising the alarm over proposed changes to abortion access in three Australian states. How physical activity influences your 'biological clock' - and whether it can help you feel younger than you actually are. Changes to how bulk billing is administered and what that could mean for community-run Aboriginal health services in remote parts of Australia. And the withdrawal of a drug for breast cancer and endometriosis from Australia - why has it happened and what does it mean for patients? References: Ebola Outbreak: Current Situation (US CDC). AI Chatbot Use and Disclosure for Mental Health Among US Adolescents and Young Adults AstraZeneca pulls critical breast cancer and endometriosis drug Zoladex from shelves Abortion Access Under Attack Again in Two Australian States - RANZCOG Physical activity and biological age measured by DNA methylation clocks: a systematic review and meta-analysis
• 
  The habits that protect your mental health 30.05.2026 42мин

  This week, an update on the diphtheria outbreak across multiple Australian states. What's changed to allow the spread to occur? How to build healthier housing for remote communities - and it starts with maintenance. A new trial shows some everyday steps people can take to protect themselves against depression. And reviewing the evidence on calcium and vitamin D when it comes to fractures and falls. References: Ebola outbreak outpacing health response, WHO chief says Ebola-hit DR Congo faces 'catastrophic collision' of disease and conflict, WHO warns Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus, Democratic Republic of the Congo & Uganda Ebola Outbreak: Current Situation (CDC) Calcium, vitamin D, or combined supplementation to prevent fractures and falls: systematic review and meta-analysis Diphtheria in Australia – Epidemiological update – 18 May 2026 Impact of Restriction-Resumption Protocols on Mood and Anxiety in Healthy Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial
• 
  Peptides: who's using them and what's in them? 23.05.2026 44мин

  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 statement from the National Heart Foundation of Australia Impact and Effectiveness of Australia's 2025 Hybrid RSV Immunisation Program: Results from the PAEDS-FluCAN Network Diphtheria outbreak could be 'contained within months' but response criticised as too slow Responding to injectable synthetic peptide use among young people: priorities for clinicians and public health Insights from a cross-sectional population-based study of 10,929 Australians living with Parkinson's disease: risk factors, comorbidities, and sex differences Cardiac resynchronization therapy with or without atrioventricular node ablation in atrial fibrillation: the CAAN-AF trial
• 
  Ebola outbreak: how it spreads and prospects for a vaccine 21.05.2026

  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 Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda determined a public health emergency of international concern. Absence of USAID likely slowed Ebola detection and response, former officials say
• 
  Do you need surgery after an ACL tear? 16.05.2026 51мин

  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 takes a lot of work. There's a growing evidence base for the use of digital interventions for people with some categories of eating disorder. And they might have spillover benefits for mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, which can co-occur with an eating disorder. But how do you find one that you can trust? Plus, the renaming of polycystic ovary syndrome and the implications for people with the condition. References: Low-plastic diet and urinary levels of plastic-associated phthalates and bisphenols: the randomized controlled PERTH Trial Treatment of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture Acute, Longer-Term, and Transdiagnostic Outcomes After Digital Interventions for Eating Disorders Aluminium adjuvants in vaccines and potential health effects: systematic review Polycystic ovary syndrome renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome Thriving Kids - Services Australia