Your Weekly Dose of Medicine

Dean and Steve spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC Radio for World Digestive Health Day 2025Dr Dean Al-Hajjiri, Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Hobart Private Hospital, Calvary & Royal Hobart Hospital; Honorary lecturer, University of TasmaniaDr Steve Chung, Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Hobart Private HospitalSeries curated & organised by Dr Lila LandowskiKeywords: digestive health, colonoscopy, gastrointestinal health, bowel cancer, gut health, colon health, endoscopy, bowel preparation, reflux, diverticulitisSummaryIn this conversation, gastroenterologists Dr. Dean Al-Hajiri and Dr. Stephen Chung discuss the significance of digestive health, focusing on colonoscopies, their preparation, and common gastrointestinal issues. They explain the procedure, its importance in detecting potential health problems, and address common concerns about pain and preparation. The discussion also touches on dietary factors affecting gut health and humorous anecdotes from their experiences in the field.TakeawaysWorld Digestive Health Day emphasizes the importance of digestive health.A colonoscopy is a procedure to examine the large intestine.Preparation for a colonoscopy is crucial for accurate results.Colonoscopy can detect and treat issues like polyps and cancer.Screening can significantly reduce the risk of dying from bowel cancer.Coffee consumption has health benefits when kept to moderate levels.Reflux is common but can indicate serious health issues if persistent.Colonics lack evidence of benefit and can pose risks.Bowel blockages can be caused by scar tissue or cancer.Gastroenterologists play a key role in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal cancers.Chapters00:00 Understanding Digestive Health and Colonoscopies04:42 The Importance of Colonoscopy Preparation08:59 Common Gastrointestinal Issues and Their Treatments13:00 Unusual Findings During Colonoscopies

Dr Andrew Black & Dr Niamh Chapman joined Kylie Baxter live on ABC Radio to discuss hypertension for World Hypertension Day.Dr Andrew Black: Consultant Cardiologist, Royal Hobart Hospital; Senior Lecturer University of TasmaniaDr Niamh Chapman: Senior Research Fellow (Hypertension research), Lead of the People and Systems Hypertension team, University of SydneySegment organised & curated by Dr Lila Landowski.Keywords: hypertension, blood pressure, heart health, lifestyle changes, monitoring, atrial fibrillation, alcohol, weight management, DASH diet, health awarenessSummary:This conversation explores the critical connection between hypertension and heart health, emphasizing the importance of monitoring blood pressure, understanding lifestyle changes, and addressing related health issues such as atrial fibrillation. Experts Dr. Andrew Black and Dr. Neve Chapman provide insights into effective management strategies, the role of diet and exercise, and the impact of alcohol consumption on blood pressure.TakeawaysHypertension is high blood pressure that can lead to serious health issues.Regular monitoring of blood pressure is crucial for awareness.Home blood pressure monitors can help track changes effectively.Lifestyle changes can significantly lower blood pressure.The DASH diet is recommended for managing hypertension.Limiting sodium intake is essential for blood pressure control.Alcohol consumption should be moderated to manage blood pressure.Weight loss, even modest, can improve blood pressure readings.Atrial fibrillation is linked to high blood pressure and requires management.Support from healthcare professionals can aid in lifestyle changes.Chapters00:00 Understanding Hypertension and Its Importance03:38 Monitoring Blood Pressure Effectively06:38 Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hypertension10:41 The Role of Medications and Treatment Options12:02 Addressing Obesity and Its Impact on Hypertension

Prof Viet Tran joins Kylie Baxter live in the ABC Radio StudioProf Viet TranEmergency Physician, Royal Hobart HospitalProfessor of Emergency Medicine, UTASFounding Director TASER InstituteChair, Tasmanian Health SenateSegment organised & curated by Dr Lila Landowski.Keywords: emergency medicine, broken bones, pain management, recovery, emergency department, twilight sedation, osteoporosis, personal stories, injury experiencesSummaryIn this conversation, emergency physician Viet Tran discusses the complexities of treating broken bones and injuries in the emergency department. He explains the pain management techniques used, including the green whistle and twilight sedation, and emphasizes the importance of preventative health measures to avoid injuries. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by emergency departments and shares personal stories from listeners about their experiences with injuries.TakeawaysEmergency physicians prioritize pain management for patients.The green whistle is a unique pain relief device.Twilight sedation helps patients during painful procedures.Accidents are the most common cause of broken bones.Recovery from a broken bone typically takes six weeks.Preventative health is crucial for bone health.Emergency departments face universal challenges.Teamwork and collegiality are vital in emergency medicine.Dislocations can be more painful than clean breaks.Personal stories highlight the commonality of injuries.

Dr Dean Al-Hajjiri, Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Hobart Private Hospital, Calvary & Royal Hobart Hospital; Honorary lecturer, University of TasmaniaDr Steve Chung, Consultant Gastroenterologist at the Hobart Private HospitalDean and Steve spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC RadioSeries curated & organised by Dr Lila LandowskiKeywords: Bowel cancer, screening, early detection, diet, health, gastroenterology, awareness, prevention, colonoscopy, processed meatsSummaryThis conversation focuses on the importance of bowel cancer screening, particularly for individuals over 45, and discusses the implications of test results, dietary factors influencing bowel cancer risk, and recommendations for healthy eating to prevent the disease. The experts emphasize the significance of early detection and the simplicity of the screening process, while also addressing common concerns and misconceptions about bowel health.TakeawaysBowel cancer is Australia's second most deadly cancer.The screening age has been lowered to 45 years.A positive screening test does not mean cancer is present.Processed meats significantly increase bowel cancer risk.Healthy, unprocessed foods are key to prevention.Vitamin D can reduce the risk of bowel cancer.Early detection through screening can save lives.Dietary habits from previous generations are healthier.Regular exercise contributes to bowel health.Maintaining a balanced diet with fiber is essential.

Wired a Little Different: Neurodivergence in chidren with Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, Dr Tes NaidooTes joined David Reilly live in the ABC radio studiosSegment curated & organised by Dr Lila LandowskiKeywords: neurodivergent, neurodevelopment, pediatrician, emotional regulation, education, early intervention, childhood development, advocacy, signs of neurodevelopmental conditions, family supportSummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Tess Naidoo, a neurodevelopmental pediatrician, speaks about the complexities of neurodevelopment and its impact on children. They discuss the signs of neurodevelopmental conditions, the challenges families face in navigating education, and the importance of early intervention and advocacy for children. The conversation emphasizes understanding neurodevelopment as a lifelong process that begins before birth and the need for patience and support in helping children manage their emotions and behaviors.TakeawaysThere is a growing conversation about neurodivergence in families.Neurodevelopment involves the growth of the brain and nervous system.Collaboration between pediatricians and educators is essential.Teachers are increasingly aware of neurodiversity in students.Emotional dysregulation is a common challenge for children.Understanding neurodevelopment helps in identifying conditions early.Children may struggle with emotional regulation due to brain development.Advocacy for children is crucial in navigating support systems.Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children.Parents and educators play a vital role in supporting neurodivergent children.

Cardiologist Dr Simon Binny spoke live on ABC radio, chatting to David Reilly on Drive.Series organised/curated by Dr Lila LandowskiDr Simon Binny, Consultant Cardiologist, Royal Hobart Hospital and Calvary HospitalKeywords: heart health, cardiology, risk factors, heart disease, cholesterol, inflammation, CT scan, statins, preventive care, heart checksSummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Simon Binny, a consultant cardiologist, discusses the importance of heart health, emphasizing the need for regular checks and understanding risk factors. He explains how various conditions, including inflammation and hormonal changes, can impact heart health, and highlights the significance of lifestyle choices and medical interventions like statins. The discussion also covers the importance of awareness regarding heart disease, especially for those with a family history or other risk factors.TakeawaysRegular cardiac health checks are essential for everyone.Understanding your artery status can prevent future issues.Waist circumference is a critical measure for heart health.Post-menopausal women face increased cholesterol levels.Statins help stabilize plaque and reduce heart attack risk.Blood pressure monitoring is crucial for heart disease prevention.Chronic inflammatory conditions can increase heart disease risk.Cancer survivors may have a higher risk of heart disease.Certain hormonal conditions can affect heart health.Being fit does not guarantee good artery health.

Katelyn Lane is a senior occupational therapist at the RHH. She spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC Radio Hobart, airing on 2/7/25Series curated by Dr Lila LandowskiKeywords: falls, older Australians, injury prevention, occupational therapy, health care, home safety, exercise, strength training, hospital admissions, community healthSummaryThis conversation explores the serious issue of falls among older Australians, discussing the statistics, causes, and prevention strategies. Caitlin Lane, a senior occupational therapist, shares insights on how falls lead to significant health complications and hospital admissions. The discussion emphasizes practical home modifications and the importance of exercise in reducing fall risks, aiming to keep older individuals active and independent.TakeawaysEvery three minutes, an older Australian is hospitalised due to falls.Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions.Common causes of falls include trips over mats and pets.Simple home modifications can significantly reduce fall risks.Using nightlights can help navigate safely at night.A fresh set of eyes can help identify hazards in the home.Exercise and strength training are crucial for fall prevention.Staying active in the community helps maintain independence.Occupational therapists encourage independence for as long as possible.Keeping older individuals strong and active is essential for their health.Sound bites"Simple changes can reduce the risk of a fall.""A fresh set of eyes can spot hazards.""Exercise can really help reduce falls."

A/Prof Roland McCallum spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC RadioSeries curated by Dr Lila LandowskiKeywordsdiabetes, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, complications, heart disease, medications, keto diet, lifestyle changes, blood sugarSummaryIn this conversation, Associate Professor Roland McCallum discusses the different types of diabetes, their complications, and management strategies. He emphasizes the importance of understanding diabetes as a condition that not only affects blood sugar levels but also has significant implications for heart health. The discussion includes insights on medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary approaches such as the keto diet.TakeawaysDiabetes is a growing concern, with 1.5 million Australians affected.Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition affecting insulin production.Type 2 diabetes is primarily influenced by genetics and lifestyle.Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can have long-term effects.Fasting blood sugar tests are crucial for early detection of diabetes.Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart disease.Weight loss medications can be beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.Lifestyle changes are essential in managing diabetes effectively.Keto diets can help some individuals with type 2 diabetes.Managing diabetes involves a combination of medication, diet, and exercise.

Minds Under Siege: Your Brain in the digital era with neuroscientist Dr Lila LandowskiLila spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC Radio Hobart Drive program on 6 August 2025Dr Lila LandowskiNeuroscientist and Senior Lecturer, UTAS;Vice President and Director, Science & Technology Australia;Fides Member, World Health OrganisationOpinions and perspectives shared here are Lila's, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the organisations she works for and represents.Keywordstechnology, AI, mental health, social media, neuroscience, brain development, face-to-face communication, cognitive skills, sensory overload, human connectionSummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Lila Landosky, a neuroscientist, discusses the profound effects of technology, particularly AI and social media, on human cognition and mental health. She highlights how advancements in technology have historically allowed humans to develop skills and communities but raises concerns about the current reliance on AI and social media, which may hinder cognitive development and social interactions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication for mental well-being and the risks of sensory overload in our technology-driven lives.TakeawaysThe brain adapts to efficiency, impacting skill development.AI may reduce our cognitive engagement over time.Social media usage correlates with decreased face-to-face interactions.Lack of socialization can lead to increased anxiety and depression.Face-to-face communication enhances brain synchrony and well-being.Sensory overload can lead to stress and anxiety.Historical advancements in tools have shaped human development.Technology can both aid and hinder our cognitive abilities.Engaging with real humans is vital for mental health.Our reliance on technology is changing our social landscape

Professor Ang Berndt is leading Tasmania’s New Occupational Therapy Degree with the School of Health Sciences, at the University of Tasmania