Health Report

We know a varied diet of veggies is good for our microbiome, but what about a varied environment? Where we spend our time also influences the good bacteria in our bodies.Also, we take a look at the mpox outbreak that's now a cause of international concern. And why surgeons don't want you to get knee surgery if you've got osteoarthritis.  

The Olympics has reignited a century-old debate about sex categories in sport — and what happens when policy doesn't align with biology. A look at the Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Melbourne. Also, a response to union calls for reproductive leave to support women going through menopause. Why people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of severe injuries. And the history of Hepatitis E, which one expert says Australia needs to take more seriously. 

Marketing of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) tests could be exploiting the anxiety women might feel about their fertility. An update on influenza, COVID-19 and whooping cough in Australia. Two more risk factors for dementia have been identified — what are the implications for preventing cognitive decline?And what impact does a double mastectomy have on breast cancer recurrence and deaths?

Research is clear on the benefits of exercise for certain types of pain, including for pain associated with cancer treatment. A running group is putting this into practice. An update on mammal-to-mammal transmission of bird flu, and a check in with a major AIDS conference. Also, do we need to reconsider regulations around cigarettes in the wake of a crackdown on vaping?And heart attacks in young women can have a major psychological impact — especially when the person had no known risk factors. 

Adolescence is a stressful time. Researchers have been investigating simple ways to help improve teen mental health.The US president tests positive for COVID, plus the results of a large study into COVID vaccines and pregnancy.Asthma action plans to help manage the condition.How reminiscing about the past can improve wellbeing in the present.And why you should stick to soap and water if there's gastro about.

Sex tech is giving people with disability better access to their own bodies.What Australia is doing to prepare for the migration of birds that could be carrying a potentially catastrophic strain of avian influenza. The argument for a sugar tax gets stronger, thanks to more evidence from countries that already have one. And in the last 50 years of Aboriginal alcohol programs, what has worked? Plus a special NAIDOC issue of the Medical Journal of Australia. 

Clarity on vaping changes and a look at the national diabetes inquiry.It turns out Australians are getting close to half of their energy needs from ultra-processed foods which can increase the risk of chronic diseaseExperts believe seasonal depression is more common in Australia than once thought.New research shows Indigenous Australians with hearing loss aren't getting the care they need.

Is it 10 thousand steps or 30mins? How advice on regular exercise varies.What's being done in response to medication shortages.Deprescribing is when you wean off a prescription medication you no longer need, but it needs to be done safely, and it can be difficult to find the right advice.Experts want women to know they don't have to suffer through heavy periods.And when all the tests come back negative, initially it's a weight off your mind, but then you start to wonder, 'what the hell is wrong with me?'

Take a look at changing teaching methods in the classroom, and why that matters for future health.Australian researchers are developing a new drug to fight the potentially deadly condition of sepsis.Could a common drug be used to treat macular degeneration?And what effect does space travel have on ageing?

A comprehensive review has delved into the current research into zinc supplements and their effectiveness.Research has shown that people experiencing chronic pain see the world as a harsher place – distances are longer and hills are steeper.We blink more than we need to, and scientists have been trying to find out why.And, sharing memories of Michael Mosley.