Health Report

Jess Berzikerski, Head of Human Nutrition at the University of Melbourne, uncovers insights into non-coeliac gluten sensitivity and the surprising roles of FODMAPs and psychological factors in gut symptoms. Ian Keller, Professor at the University of Edinburgh, discusses intriguing research linking doxycycline exposure in adolescents to a reduced risk of schizophrenia. Elisabeth Widerpass from IARC highlights that 30-50% of cancers are preventable, with alcohol being a significant contributor—an urgent reminder for effective public health policies.

Michael Nicholas, a clinical psychologist and pain management expert, shares insights on the complexities of chronic pain. He discusses how psychological factors shape pain experiences and effective treatments like CBT and pacing techniques. Pavitha Parathan, a postdoctoral researcher, delves into the impact of sensory neuropeptides on gastrointestinal cancer growth. She highlights how targeting therapies used for migraines could potentially be repurposed to combat cancer. Their conversation reveals the intricate connections between mental health, pain management, and cancer research.

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 management of male infertility - Healthy MaleData Resource Profile: The Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR)Novel Hypoglossal Stimulation Markedly Improves Airflow and Airway Collapsibility in OSARacial Bias in Pulse Oximetry Measurement - NEJMFind a clinical trial

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 thousands of children from peanut allergy. ReferencesGuidelines for Early Food Introduction and Patterns of Food AllergyNew systematic review and meta-analysis shows an association between shingles vaccination and lower risk of heart attack and stroke Shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine - who should get vaccinated?Supporting weight focused discussions in primary care: A qualitative exploration of barriers and facilitatorsDiscussing Weight with Patients in Primary Care in Australia: A Mixed Methods Experimental StudyTGA approves new brain stimulation device for treatment of depression - ABC NewsThe Australian Pancreatic High-RIsk ScrEening (APRISE) StudyThe Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) Consortium

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 changes to blood test results mean you could see them before your doctor. ReferencesGlobal antibiotic resistance surveillance report – World Health Organization New test categories available for faster access on My Health Record

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?ReferencesAssessment of malnutrition in preschool-aged children by mid-upper arm circumference in the Gaza Strip (January, 2024–August, 2025): a longitudinal, cross-sectional, surveillance studyTestimony, advocacy, and the public health effect of genocideHealth of the Nation report - RACGPNobel Prize in Physiology or MedicineAustralian Living Evidence Guideline: Endometriosis - The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health: an actionable vision for heart failure prevention - the LancetAnal Cancer Screening Guidelines

Dr. Pav Naniyakara, a minimally invasive gynaecological surgeon, delves into the complexities of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and advocates for a name change to better reflect its multi-system impacts. The discussion also touches on the health consequences of daylight saving time, linking clock changes to increased risks of obesity and stroke. The episode takes an insightful tour of the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, emphasizing its critical role in public health and emerging disease threats.

Join Professor Andrew Whitehouse, an esteemed autism researcher, and Professor Anne Tiedemann, expert in physical activity and health, as they dive into some hot topics. They unravel Trump's controversial claims linking paracetamol to autism, scrutinizing the evidence and its implications. Andrew discusses the rise in autism diagnoses and the influence of genetics versus environment. Meanwhile, Anne shares surprising findings from a yoga trial for fall prevention in older adults, revealing that increased confidence may lead to more falls. Tune in for insightful debunking and expert advice!

Join Professor Andrew Whitehouse, an autism researcher from the Kids Research Institute, and Professor Chris Blythe, a pediatrician and vaccinologist, as they dissect President Trump's controversial claims linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism. They clarify that increased autism diagnoses result from changing diagnostic criteria rather than an epidemic. Blythe emphasizes the absence of any vaccine-autism connections, while Whitehouse warns about the misleading nature of unproven treatments and the need for evidence-based practices.

A big shake-up in asthma treatment is here, phasing out blue puffers for better alternatives! They delve into the rising health risks from climate change, particularly heat-related mortality. A recent study raises concerns about daily aspirin for older adults, revealing higher bleeding risks and no cardiovascular benefits. Plus, there's an intriguing discussion on whether routine blood tests for lipoprotein(a) should be covered to enhance prevention efforts. Discover the quirky highlights from the Ig Nobel Prizes, showcasing bizarre yet fascinating research.