Health Report
Health Report covers the health stories that make a difference. Dr Norman Swan and Dr Preeya Alexander dissect the latest and breaking news in the medical world.
Episodes
What happens when you don't use BMI to measure obesity?
Broadening the definition of clinical obesity has lowered its prevalence in children but increased it in mid-life. Researchers hope this will assist clinicians with individualised care and advice for people in larger bodies.If you have polyps removed during a colonoscopy, you may be asked to come back in 3-5 years time for another procedure. But does that timing decrease your ris
Waking up stiff and sore? It could be PMR
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition that mostly affects people over 65 years of age but can happen earlier. Learn what to look out for and when you should get it checked out.A health law expert talks through the regulations that may apply to the LillyDirect platform, which now facilitates dispensing of the pharmaceutical company's own GLP1 medicine in Austra
Should weight loss injections be easier to access?
After failing to negotiate a way for their weight loss medicine to be listed on the PBS, Eli Lilly has launched an online platform to "facilitate dispensing and delivery of medicines to consumers". It provides a pathway via third party providers that people can use to get prescriptions filled and even home delivery.While diagnoses for adult ADHD are on the rise, we look at medica
Is AHPRA doing enough to curb unsafe prescribing?
Rachel has lived experience of an eating disorder and came across ads for a telehealth weight loss company on a podcast. The ads continue in their podcast feed, more than a year after they lodged a formal complaint with AHPRA. Rachel hasn't been updated on the status of the complaint.Disrupted sleep during pregnancy and the post partum period can increase the risk of cardiovascul
Why you should speed up your steps, even just in short bursts.
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.
Validation for people living with chronic pain
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 b
Same work but no training pathway for unaccredited registrars
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 vaccin
Will this help more men get prostate checkups?
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-orifi
BMI fails the test as a predictor of disease risk
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 ac
Kate has a history of anorexia. Why was she prescribed weight loss jabs?
‘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
An Alzheimer's blood test is on the way. What could that mean for you?
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 cas
When is a child ready for their own smartphone?
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
What can you really learn from a biological ageing test?
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 isot
Who should be allowed to prescribe medications?
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 caus
Could a sleep supplement help reduce chronic pain?
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 peopl
Should we ban the use of controversial herbicide, paraquat?
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
Bird flu has reached Australia. Now what?
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
Good and bad news on alcohol and disease risk
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
A crackdown on unregulated peptides
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
Does exercise lower your biological age?
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 hea
The habits that protect your mental health
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 frac
Peptides: who's using them and what's in them?
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
Ebola outbreak: how it spreads and prospects for a vaccine
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,
Do you need surgery after an ACL tear?
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 pla
'Fitspo' content and mental health
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 'p
Markers of irritable bowel syndrome
A new review suggests there may be biomarkers linked to irritable bowel syndrome, typically a diagnosis of exclusion.How you get followed up after going to the doctor with symptoms of bowel cancer is shaped in part by where you live.People can now access their diagnostic and pathology results digitally, and for one woman in Brisbane that meant spotting a breast cancer finding tha
What do we know about brain fog in menopause?
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 - wit
Can ChatGPT Health tell when you should go to hospital?
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 At
Treating a medical emergency ... in space
When a medical emergency happens in space, how is it treated? And what does life in Antarctica have to teach us about staying healthy on a spaceflight?Findings from a large study of Australian teenagers find links between school connection, sleep and mental health trajectories through adolescence.If you have a shoulder injury and suspect it's the rotator cuff, should you have a s
What to expect this flu season
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.Refe
3D printing in healthcare
3D printing is becoming an incredibly versatile modern tool - with scope to apply it to engineering, manufacturing, architecture and design challenges. And it's increasingly being used in ... healthcare.Plus, Kylie and Gillian had been friends for years when Kylie had a stroke in her early 30s. It turned Kylie's work-driven life upside down, and forced her and husband Chris to re
Ultra-processed foods and behaviour in kids
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 t
MDMA therapy's side effects
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
Are Australian kids eating too much salt?
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 promisin
Can AI chatbots be good therapists?
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.
Wait, does exercise help osteoarthritis?
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.
Prescribing exercise for mental health
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 so
The cost shock of specialist care
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 N
Going to ChatGPT for health advice?
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
What are the benefits of having a dry January?
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 t
Can AI make personalised medicine accessible?
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 artificia
Walking the Camino with knee osteoarthritis
People with osteoarthritis used to be told to take it easy and avoid overdoing exercise. But the advice has changed drastically. Also, should everyone going onto GLP-1 medications for weight loss be screened and monitored for eating disorders? Another 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:
Is Dr Google fuelling your hypochondria?
Anxiety can manifest in an excessive worry about your health, and it can be debilitating. But there are effective treatments. Also, antidepressants can be difficult to come off because of the withdrawal symptoms. An expert highlights the need to better educate patients and doctors on deprescribing. Another instalment of Stroke of Luck, a series on the experience of having a strok
Uncovering the brain circuit for creativity
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. Refere
Swapping salt for a heart healthier option
Substituting your table salt for something with lower sodium could drive down your risk of heart attack and stroke. Also, what expectant parents might not know about screening for genetic diseases before conceiving. Artificial intelligence (AI) could soon be used to help predict decisions a person might make at the end of life. And a look back at the year: Make America Health Aga
Indigenous babies born with more gut bugs
Despite facing an increased risk of chronic disease later in life, remote Indigenous babies start life with a more diverse gut microbiome. A new study in Nature also found the infants have bacteria that have completely disappeared from non-Indigenous populations. Also, a guide to living healthy after a fatty liver disease diagnosis. And why fewer people are getting the HPV vaccin
Taking women's pain seriously in healthcare
Historically women have had a hard time being heard in the doctor's office, with dismissiveness and delays in diagnosis all too common. The state government in Victoria has held an enquiry into women's pain to come up with recommendations aimed at shifting that experience to a more positive one. Also, we get a better sense of what's nature vs nurture when it comes to our attribut
Why do people become dentists?
The dentists' chair is not everyone's favourite place. Have you ever sat there wondering, why would anyone become a dentist?We take a trip to dental school to find out why so many people get into dentistry, and the skills it takes. Also, are we doing enough to weigh up the risks vs benefits of CT scanning? And how an autoimmune skin condition actually affects the whole body, part
Could you give up caffeine for six months?
No coffee for six months, not even decaf. That's what participants of a trial looking into the effect on atrial fibrillation were asked to do.Also, could we be on the verge of changing guidelines for asthma care in children? Or is it too early to call?And catching cancer early can be important. How far away are we from harnessing blood, urine and even saliva tests to help?Referen
Got gut issues? Don't assume it's gluten
There has been a rise in people that cut gluten out of their diet to address gut symptoms, despite not having a diagnosis of coeliac disease. New research is shedding light on what might actually be at play in non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. Also, how a common antibiotic might lower the risk of developing schizophrenia when given to young people at risk. And a look at the cancer
Pain isn't all in your head — but psychotherapy can help
If you live with chronic pain, getting referred to a psychologist for pain management can feel like another dismissal. What does a session with a pain psychologist look like, and how effective can it be if you don't have any mental health diagnoses?Also, some practical information for parents introducing allergens to their babies. And how the nervous system might inadvertently be
Racial inequity in our medical devices
For 50 years we've known pulse oximeters are less accurate on darker skin, and it could lead to misdiagnoses. Also, allergen starter packs are being advertised to parents. Are they safe?Guidelines have been released for male infertility care so men aren't left out. And joint replacements don't last forever, but there are ways to extend their life.ReferencesGuidelines for the mana
Challenging weight bias in the doctor’s office
It's a tricky conversation to navigate, so researchers have tried to find out the best way to bring up weight in the doctor's office while dodging bias and stigma.Also, a look at the evidence surrounding transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for depression. The international effort to improve survival from pancreatic cancer. And how a change in guidelines spared tens of thousan
Does human genome editing cross a line?
Gene editing holds huge promise to cure disease and alleviate human suffering, but there are many ethical considerations when it comes to changing our DNA. We map the story of Chinese scientist He Jiankui who was jailed for altering the genome of babies without proper consent. Also, we take a look at the common skin condition rosacea and what treatments are available. And some ch
Low FODMAP diet for chronic endometriosis pain
Endometriosis is a complex condition, and the pain associated with it can persist despite medications and surgery. New guidelines have suggested lifestyle changes like diet or supplements could work for some. Also, what you can do in your 40s to prevent heart failure later on. And anal cancer is rare but might be going under people's radar. Who should be screened?ReferencesAssess
Daylight saving: Can changing clocks harm your health?
Daylight saving time kicks in this weekend for New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory.Time shifts can be controversial, and in recent years there's been research into the effects on our health. One study has looked into the incidence of strokes and obesity. Also, why experts want to change the name of polycystic ovary syndrome (P
Why does Trump think paracetamol causes autism?
US President Donald Trump has told women they shouldn't take paracetamol (also known as Tylenol or acetaminophen) during pregnancy because it has been linked to autism. We unpack the evidence with experts — where has this claim come from? Have we really found a treatment for autism spectrum disorder? And what are the dangers of taking health advice from Trump?Also, an unexpected
Trump links paracetamol with autism. What’s the evidence?
Trump has suggested there's a link between pregnant women taking paracetamol and autism in children. In a press conference Trump said pregnant women with fevers should "tough it out".
Time to ditch the blue puffer for asthma
A major change has been made to Australia's asthma guidelines, but how long will it take everyone to catch on?Also, we know daily aspirin for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease isn't beneficial, but a new study shows there might be risks. And should the one-time blood test for lipoprotein(a) be free for everyone?References:National Climate Risk Assessment | Australi
Do you take health advice from influencers?
The way we get information has changed, and when it comes to health and wellness more and more people are turning to social media. There are pros and cons, but when it comes to something as important as birth control, there's a price to pay for taking guidance from influencers. Also on the show, why parent-focused programs haven't been working to tackle obesity in toddlers. And a
Mapping the brain using the placebo effect
Researchers have tricked participants with placebo pain relief in an effort to map the brainstem. Also, how immunotherapy might be used to treat mental health conditions in some young people. And delays in diagnosing frontotemporal dementia means some people are missing out on important care. ReferencesAnswering common questions about GLP-1s for weight lossGLP-1s and eating disor
Could your baby’s skincare routine have lifelong benefits?
Lots of people develop a daily skincare routine for anti-ageing purposes, but what if there are benefits from starting even earlier — at just nine weeks old?Also, a discussion in the United States about SSRI antidepressants in pregnancy has caused lots of anxiety. We talk through the risks versus the benefits. And a common drug used to treat everything from nerves to heart condit
Long term relief for low back pain
Cognitive Functional Therapy can help relieve low back pain, and shows some positive long-term results.Ovarian cancer doesn't start in the ovaries, but in the fallopian tubes, and opportunistic surgery could prevent it.And is your gut microbiome responsible for your insomnia or is your insomnia changing your microbiome?
Can an ultraprocessed diet ever be healthy?
Dietary guidelines tell us what we should eat for good health, but at the moment it is possible to follow the guidelines and still eat predominantly ultraprocessed foods. A new study has looked at the impact this has on your health, and compared it to a minimally processed diet chock full of whole foods. Also, there are calls to change the criteria for diagnosing perimenopause. A
Is your no-sugar drink really the healthier option?
If you reach for a no-sugar drink, thinking you're making a wise choice, you might need to think again. A new study suggests artificially sweetened drinks carry a similar type 2 diabetes risk to sugar sweetened beverages. Also, loneliness is a growing public health issue, especially among younger people. What can we do to address it?And gynaecological cancer survivors are flippin
The pros and cons of mental time travel
There are ways to rejuvenate old memories, but a new study has compared the process to the myth of Sisyphus, who was cursed to repeatedly roll a stone up a hill. Also on the show, many doctors are already using artificial intelligence to help take notes. But are patients always aware these AI scribes are in the room?The emergence of vaping has slowed our progress when it comes to
What bat parents and human parents have in common
Just like human children, young bats have been found to harbour and spread lots of viruses. Their susceptibility to contracting multiple viruses at once makes them the perfect breeding ground for new disease variants. Also, we take a look at a study that seemed to show private hospital were better than public hospitals for childbirth. Is it that simple?And a survey of people with
How to add 14 years to your lifespan
Five risk factors explain 50 per cent of cardiovascular risk at age 50, according to a new study. Addressing those risk factors can add years to your life, even if you address them in middle age. Also, the UK demonstrates a cutting edge IVF technique is effective at avoiding mitchondrial disease. ADHD treatment has real world positives, but the effects are lessening as more peopl
Mapping the environmental exposures that impact human health
The human exposome is the environmental equivalent of the human genome, and there's a project in the works to map it. It's a huge project that needs to take into account our lifestyles, cultures, economics and politics. Essentially, everything but our genome. Also, a concerning disparity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians when it comes to kidney transplants. And a
Harnessing the immune system to fight cancer
Immunotherapy uses the body's immune system to fight cancer. In blood cancer, a revolutionary t-cell therapy has cured patients and could show promise in solid tumours. In bladder cancer, the tuberculosis vaccine is infused to treat non-invasive cancer. However a shortage of BCG means researchers are having to test out other methods. Also, is Australia on the front foot when it c
The man using AI to try treat his dog's cancer
In the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence, it can sometimes feel like the answer to everything is right around the corner. A dog owner is testing this with the help of super-computing, to try and find another treatment for his dog's cancer. Also, the national lung cancer screening program is about to begin. Who is eligible, and is the healthcare system prepared?And with
What do hyenas have to do with human health?
Hyenas and vultures play a role in driving down the risk of disease outbreaks, but their decline due to human behaviour is putting our health in danger.Also, we discuss Lifeblood's changes which bring down some of the barriers facing gay and bisexual men, and transgender women, who'd like to donate blood or plasma. Pain education could help people with osteoarthritis get the most
Is it too easy to get a prescription for medicinal cannabis?
There are concerns people are getting their hands on medicinal cannabis to treat conditions where there's very little evidence of benefit — and the possibility of harm. Also, why weight loss drugs could improve treatment for people with schizophrenia. The full breadth of corporate ownership of radiology clinics is revealed. And what questions need to be asked with IVF in the spot
Exercise packs a punch in fending off cancer
A structured exercise program has increased survival in people with colon cancer after they've undergone surgery and chemotherapy. Also, a common genetic variant could double the risk of dementia in men — if they receive two doses of the mutation. We provide an update on the flu, COVID and RSV circulating the community.And a study bringing together millions of lab tests has found
Can you predict how smart a baby will be in adulthood?
Our cognitive ability changes throughout our lives, but what happens when we're young can determine our intelligence in adulthood — especially if we don't do anything to bolster it. Also, NSW follows other states in allowing GPs and diagnose and treat ADHD. There are updated guidelines for the treatment of osteoporosis. And when you go into remission from cancer, you usually und
Deepfake scammers have stolen Norman’s voice
If you've come across ads of Norman pushing a product for you to buy — no you haven't. These ads are actually deepfake scams using an AI Norman to sell unproven supplements. Also, why a new Alzheimer's drug coming onto the market might not become cheap enough for most people to take. A breakthrough in gene-editing could push us closer to a future full of CRISPR treatments. And wh
Want to heal your gut? Here's the evidence
Gut health is more complicated than social media influencers might have you believe. It can be impacted by diet, exercise, the medications you take, the colds you catch. And any one of these factors can lead to irritable bowel syndrome. Also, an overlooked allergy that starts with a tick bite. And the barriers people face who are suffering iron deficiency and its often overwhelmi
You don’t have to snore to have sleep apnea
It's a common sleep disorder that can have knock-on effects on your cardiovascular and overall metabolic health. But sleep apnea doesn't always present how people think, especially in women. Also, we take a look at Labor's health promises as they start their second term in government. New guidelines have been developed to improve care in early pregnancy loss. And one in seven Aus
Left or right arm? The site of your booster vaccine matters
The immune system seems to respond faster, and better, when you get a booster vaccine in the same arm as your initial vaccine. Also, your GP might miss something going wrong with your liver because of the way pathology labs report blood test results. And a common type 2 diabetes drug, metformin, could be used to treat knee osteoarthritis — and delay knee replacements.
Would you trust AI to make a life or death decision?
When you can't make medical decisions for yourself, it's often the responsibility of a loved one, or sometimes a doctor who doesn't know you at all. Some researchers are suggesting artificial intelligence could be trained to know your wishes and be another voice in the room when making decisions. Also, it can take up to 95 per cent vaccine coverage to protect against measles outb
