The Medical Journal of Australia

Experts Associate Professor Shelley Wilkinson and Dr Linda Gallo discuss the risks of excessive pregnancy supplements, emphasizing the importance of whole food diets. They highlight the negative impacts of surpassing recommended levels of supplements and promote moderation unless medically necessary.

Dr. Lydia Brown, clinical psychology lecturer, shares tips on how GPs can help women improve self-compassion and reduce depression. Topics include: self-kindness, mindfulness, menopause stigma, and debunking misconceptions about self-compassion.

Guests Snezana Stolic and William McCann from the University of Southern Queensland discuss reducing psychological distress in patients after cardiac surgery. They explore the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress, emphasize the importance of pre-operative education and social support, and highlight the challenges in the health system affecting patient care. Strategies include enhancing post-surgery patient support, utilizing digital systems for data sharing, and promoting participation in rehabilitation programs.

Professor Sotiris Vardoulakis discusses the deadly impact of wood heater smoke in Australia, emphasizing respiratory and cardiovascular health risks. They explore the need to transition to cleaner energy solutions and advocate for public awareness and monitoring of air pollution.

Professor Mark Jenkins and Associate Professor Belinda Goodwin discuss Australia's national bowel cancer screening program, highlighting the importance of early detection and improving participation rates. They compare screening programs internationally and analyze the effectiveness of home test kits. Strategies to enhance participation and considerations for the younger population are also explored.

Cardiologists Dr. James Roy and A/Prof. Kaleab Asrress discuss heart valve disease awareness. They cover the prevalence of aortic stenosis in Australia, symptoms of heart valve disease, comprehensive management approaches, challenges in early detection of aortic stenosis, and potential future treatment advancements.

Dr Benjamin Daniels and Dr Maria Aslam discuss the impact of cardiotoxic cancer medications on cardiovascular health, focusing on risks, survivorship, prevalence in Australian patients, and the need for specialized care models. They highlight the importance of addressing heart health in cancer survivorship plans, especially for aging populations.

Dr. Kate Lycett discusses tracking children's health and wellbeing, focusing on challenges like mental health, poverty, and climate change. Vic Health's initiative for young people, societal progress measures, and the impact of social determinants on children's lives are explored.

Biostatistician Mr. Christopher Sexton and MJA editor Sam Hunt discuss water fluoridation in Queensland, highlighting the correlation between socioeconomic status and access to fluoridated water. They explore regional discrepancies, overestimation of access, and debate state intervention for better dental health outcomes.

Professor Tony Scott discusses the challenges and reforms needed in Australia's health system, comparing global healthcare systems and market forces. The podcast explores out-of-pocket costs, transparency in healthcare pricing, and subsidy expansion in Australia's health system.