Industry News
1 in 2 Aussie adults won't get flu jab
For two Australian nurses, not receiving a flu vax seriously impacted their health. Their message: stop by your pharmacy and get a flu jab. [ + ]
Meningitis drugs will save 80,000 lives a year
A 15-year research project has found that a one-week drug course will dramatically reduce meningitis deaths worldwide, and has been adopted by WHO. [ + ]
Essential oils linked to abnormal breast growth in boys
Lavender and tea tree oil have endocrine-disrupting chemicals, some of which may also be found in other popular essential oils. [ + ]
Platypus milk saving lives
The humble platypus is proving to be an unlikely hero in the global fight against antibiotic resistance. [ + ]
1 in 3 US cardio deaths linked to lead
Low-level lead exposure may be responsible for around 30% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease in the USA each year. [ + ]
90% of Aussie adults experience tooth decay
A new report finds one in 10 preventable hospital admissions are due to dental conditions, while one-third of Aussie five- and six-year-olds have decay in their baby teeth. [ + ]
Soy-milk formula affects infant reproductive organs
The effects are subtle and not cause for alarm, but further research into the long-term effects of the oestrogen-like compounds found in soy-based formulas is required. [ + ]
Open heart surgery impacts Vit D levels
A vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, congestive heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions. [ + ]
Ambulance Victoria convicted, fined $400K
Following the investigation into the death of a paramedic in 2015, Ambulance Victoria was found guilty of breaching the OHS Act. [ + ]
New law supports advance care directives
From 12 March, Victorian patients will be able to create legally binding advance care directives. [ + ]
Opioids unnecessary for chronic pain
A small US study has found that non-opioid-based medicines were as effective as opioid medicines at improving chronic back, hip or knee pain. [ + ]
Nerve agents: UK Russian ex-spy poisoning insights
UK police have confirmed that the Russian ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter were likely poisoned by a nerve agent. Dr Chris Morris provides medical insights. [ + ]
Nurses not addressing male patient needs
A new study finds that a one-size-fits-all approach to men's health within the primary healthcare nursing industry is putting male patients at risk. [ + ]
On your best behaviour: new conduct codes commence
As at 1 March, new codes of conduct came into effect for all nurses and midwives in Australia. [ + ]
Parkinson's discovery opens door to new treatment
A new study of Parkinson's patients with postural and gait challenges has found significantly reduced levels of a brain protein in their cerebrospinal fluid. [ + ]