Health Report - Separate stories podcast

We’ve known for some time that the first few years of childhood are critical when it comes to development.But a new study has highlighted just how critical the early years are for cognitive ability.It found cognitive ability at age 29 can be predicted by the genetic and environmental influences on you at age two, and even more so at age seven.Guest/sDr Daniel Gustavson, Assistant Research Professor at the Institute for Behavioural Genetics at the University of Colorado, Boulder ReferencesStability of general cognitive ability from infancy to adulthood: A combined twin and genomic investigation

Many people don’t find out they have osteoporosis until they suffer a fracture from a small fall.However of those aged 50 years and over, 66 per cent do have osteopenia or osteoporosis, where bones become less dense and more fragile.An updated guideline has been published, including new information about drugs used to treat the condition.Guest/sProfessor Peter Wong, rheumatologist at Westmead Hospital and Professor in Rheumatology at the University of SydneyReferencesHealthy Bones Australia2024 Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and Healthy Bones Australia guideline for osteoporosis management and fracture prevention in postmenopausal women and men over 50 years of age

People who are in remission from cancer have regular scans and tests as part of surveillance.It’s a period of huge anxiety for many – but is surveillance overdone and does it make a difference to how well you fare?Guest/sProfessor Katy Bell, clinical epidemiologist in the University of Sydney’s School of Public HealthReferencesRoutine Surveillance for Cancer Metastases — Does It Help or Harm Patients?

The discussion centers on the intricacies of prostate cancer diagnosis and the challenges surrounding the PSA blood test. A GP's insights shed light on the hurdles faced by patients, whether in rural or urban settings. The episode emphasizes the need for personalized conversations about test interpretations. It also examines how disparities in accessing urological care can significantly impact treatment decisions. Overall, it shines a light on the multifaceted nature of prostate cancer testing and the importance of tailored patient support.

The TGA has approved a drug — donanemab — to treat Alzheimer's disease in its early stages. The drug has a small effect in slowing cognitive decline, however it isn't a cure and can have significant side effects. Also, the World Health Assembly adopts historic Pandemic Agreement with zero objections. 

For months, the Health Report has been getting emails about ads where 'Norman' was promoting unproven supplements. Scammers have been using Norman's voice and face to create AI videos to sell hundreds of dollars worth of supplements to trusting listeners. ReferencesThe growing impact of deepfake health scams | 7.30Deepfake videos of Norman Swan are tricking people into buying unproven supplements at a risk to their own health

The discussion kicks off with a critical look at prostate cancer screening methods, particularly the PSA test. Recent advancements like integrating MRI scans are noted, especially relevant after Joe Biden's diagnosis. The episode sheds light on the implications of detecting advanced prostate cancer, emphasizing hormone therapy and screening techniques. It also addresses guidelines for equitable access to testing, urging doctors to engage men in meaningful conversations about PSA screening, particularly targeting age groups at higher risk.

Marco Herold, CEO of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, delves into the groundbreaking world of CRISPR gene editing. He discusses the first-ever personalized gene therapy treatment for a baby, highlighting its transformative potential. The conversation covers innovative CRISPR applications in cancer treatment, including new methods enhancing immune responses against glioblastoma. Herold also shares insights on the rapid development timeline of these therapies and their future implications in medicine, emphasizing both the excitement and challenges ahead.

Steven Heine, a Professor of Social and Cultural Psychology at the University of British Columbia, delves into the fascinating world of sleep in different cultures. He challenges the myth of needing eight hours of sleep by revealing a U-shaped correlation between sleep duration and health. Surprising findings show that cultural adherence to sleep norms can lead to better health outcomes, regardless of the hours slept. He also discusses Japan's unique connection between shorter sleep and longevity, emphasizing the importance of sleep quality over quantity.

A look at some of the Health Report correspondence this week.You can email us at healthreport@abc.net.au