Health Report

There's been talk of changing the packet size of paracetamol tablets, to reduce the self-harm of overdose—but it would be better to investigate and remedy why this harm occurs.The idea that society—as well as an individual—is responsible for this 'health literacy' is central to a new World Health Organisation report.Results of a randomised trial in people with low back pain who used a spinal cord stimulator were published recently, and the researchers are surprised by what they found.Hosts: Dr Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor

How analysts are making health data safer | Linked health data can see the bigger picture of healthcare use  | Clinical trials need more clarity on the kind of harms incurred | Donating mitochondria may mitigate the risk of some genetic disorders—but it's not a given.

The ABC series Magda's Big National Health Check us an immersive and personal journey about health in Australia today. It''s hosted by Magda Szubanski, who wants to know why Australia has a high level of chronic illness—and what to do about it.The latest statistics on causes of deaths in Australia show that deaths caused by alcohol rose by 6% last year—it's avoidable and advocates for greater alcohol control measures have been warning for years that there are not enough of them.Hosts: Dr Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor

Severe chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) can be defined in pathology, yet only be diagnosed after someone has died and their brain examined.The Victorian state election is on 26th November and hospitals feature in political healthcare promises. Labor anticipates spending more than $6 billion on new hospitals and upgrading existing ones.Guest:Assoc Prof Michael BucklandHead of Dept of NeuropathologyRoyal Prince Alfred HospitalandDirector, Australian Sports Brain Bank

There's a new perspective on how we think about the cause and progress of Alzheimer's disease. Are we actually doing the right thing by removing accumulated amyloid protein from the brain of people with it?Health practitioners are often still operating under the assumption that obesity is an individual's responsibility, even though science now tells us otherwise.It makes intuitive sense that if you screen people for disease the outcome will be good - because you get on top of the problem. But how far should you go.

The debate may be over about robotic surgery for men with prostate cancer—but can hospitals afford the robots?How do you know if memory lapses are a part of slowing down—or an early sign of dementia?The psychology of moving more—and eating better.An Australian researcher in women and cancer has died.

Bringing clarity to health and medical issues from social, scientific and political points of view.

Bringing clarity to health and medical issues from social, scientific and political points of view.

From King George III's apparent madness, to Queen Victoria's genetic legacy, the Health Report takes a look back at the illnesses (and deaths) that have shaped the world.

Vital health and medical news.