Health Report - Separate stories podcast

A national lung cancer screening program begins in July, targeting high-risk people without symptoms.This includes people aged between 50 and 70 years who are currently smoking or have quit in the past 10 years.But could it be expanded in future to include people without a history of smoking?Guest/sProfessor Alvin Ing, Respiratory Medicine at Macquarie UniversityReferencesNational Lung Cancer Screening Program - Department of Health

A devoted dog owner leverages his AI expertise to tackle his pet's cancer when traditional treatments fall short. He uncovers a genetic mutation that could lead to a promising treatment for his beloved dog, Rosie. Experts discuss the complexities of using AI in veterinary oncology and the innovative DNA analysis that transforms biological research. The power of AI in predicting protein structures is highlighted, shedding light on its potential for personalized medicine, all while navigating the challenges of drug approval.

Guidelines have recently changed to recommend more regular testing for syphilis throughout pregnancy, regardless of sexual acitivity. Cases in the community are on the rise, and the consequences of an infection during pregnancy can be life-threatening to the baby.Guest/sProfessor Marcus Chen, a specialist at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre and researcher at Monash UniversityReferencesSyphilis – CDNA National Guidelines for Public Health UnitsSyphilis data from the Kirby Institute at UNSW

This episode dives deep into the intricacies of genetic carrier screening. The hosts discuss the challenges faced by general practitioners in interpreting test results. They stress the critical role of genetic counseling in this field. Engaging listeners, they open the floor to health-related discussions, making it a thought-provoking experience. Tune in for insights that could impact your understanding of genetic health!

Gay or bisexual men and transgender women who have sex with men will be able to give blood or plasma under changes introduced by Lifeblood. Also, a report digs into the high fees and long wait times most people face when going to see a specialist doctor. ReferencesLifeblood announces changes to sexual activity rules for blood and plasma donationSpecial treatment: Improving Australians’ access to specialist care - Grattan InstituteNational Immunisation Strategy for Australia 2025–2030

The way a doctor talks to you about your osteoarthritis can go on to impact how much pain you feel as a result. A pilot program has offered people pain education alongside exercise therapy, to address unhelpful pain beliefs. It was hoped this education would help people push through initial pain flares and achieve their exercise goals.  Guest/sPeter Ninnes, study participantAssociate Professor Tasha Stanton, clinical pain neuroscientist at the University of South AustraliaReferencesThe EPIPHA-KNEE trial: Explaining Pain to target unhelpful pain beliefs to Increase PHysical Activity in KNEE osteoarthritis – a protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial with clinical- and cost-effectiveness analysis

Couples can unknowingly be carriers for genetic conditions, even though there are tests available to reveal recessive traits before conceiving.Medicare covers genetic carrier screening for cystic fibrosis (CF), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and fragile X syndrome (FXS).However advocates are calling for subsidies to cover more conditions, so parents can be well informed.Guest/sRachael Casella, advocate and founder of Mackenzie's MissionProfessor Edwin Kirk, genetic pathologist at NSW Health Pathology ReferencesMackenzie's MissionNationwide, Couple-Based Genetic Carrier Screening - NEJMUnlocking the secrets of your DNA - the Health Report

Scavenger species play a role in cleaning up towns, scavenging on the animal waste that people have thrown away. New research has shown apex scavengers, large and specialised scavengers, are declining because of human behaviour. And it's putting our health at risk. One reason is that more humans and livestock become exposed to carcases. The other is that smaller scavengers, like rodents and feral dogs, come in to fill the gap, carrying their own diseases. Guest/sChinmay Sonawane, PhD student at Stanford University ReferencesGlobal decline of apex scavengers threatens human healthPublic health and economic benefits of spotted hyenas Crocuta crocuta in a peri-urban system

A look at some of the Health Report correspondence this week.You can email us at healthreport@abc.net.auReferencesWhat's gone wrong with cannabis prescribing?Should we be worried about for-profit radiology?

For the second time, Monash IVF has transferred the wrong embryo  to a patient. It has led to the resignation of its CEO and prompted calls to tighten industry regulations.It also raises questions about the priorities of for-profit IVF clinics. Also, RFK Jr in the United States has made the unprecedented decision to overhaul the nation's vaccine advisory board, installing members known for peddling misinformation.