A message from Dr Christine Bennett - MBF's Chief Medical Officer
Our unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices are causing 50% of today's health problems. MBF is committed to arming its members with the best information and tools to help improve their health and wellness.
From Dr Christine's desk
29th July 2008: Headaches and migranes...
Headache is one of the most common health related conditions in Australia. A recent study found that people between the ages of 25 and 44 years were more likely to report having a headache.Read more on headaches and migranes.
6th June 2008: Windows on Pain Day...
"Persistent pain is among the top five most costly healthcare problems in Australia. The human cost on individuals and families is also significant since many of these Australians currently bear more than half the cost themselves. Pain can interfere with their daily lives, ability to work, relationships, health and can be so debilitating that it leads to suicidal thoughts or actions." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF’s Chief Medical Officer. Read more about windows on pain day.
27th May 2008: The truth about teeth...
"The increase in children’s dental decay is a worrying sign that public health measures like fluoridation of tap water are being overwhelmed by lifestyle factors. MBF encourages parents to take an active role in ensuring their children keep their intake of soft drinks and juice to a minimum and make regular visits to the dentist a priority." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF’s Chief Medical Officer. Read more on the truth about teeth.
5th May 2008: HRT and stroke: Is there a risk?...
"Menopause can have a significant effect on a woman's ability to live life to the full. The benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in relieving some symptoms are well documented. But there are some potential risks - including stroke. However there are a number of everyday healthy choices you can make to reduce this risk, such as quitting smoking, eating well and daily exercise. Talk to your GP about your personal health risks." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF’s Chief Medical Officer. Read more about HRT and stroke.
1st April 2008: Facts on fertility and points on pregnancy...
"More and more Australian women are delaying pregnancy to stay ahead in their career or sometimes they just don’t meet their man until later in life. One of the most significant reasons women have trouble conceiving is declining fertility with age so when they do decide that the time is right to have a baby they unexpectedly have difficulty falling pregnant. Regardless of your stage of life, if you are considering having a baby, it is important to talk your GP" Dr Christine Bennett, MBF’s Chief Medical Officer. Read more about pregnancy.
20th March 2008: World Congress on Endometriosis: 11 - 14 March 2008, Melbourne, Australia...
"Unfortunately for many Australian women, endometriosis means pain, heavy periods and, for those in their reproductive years, infertility, making this a particularly debilitating disease. Because of the difficulty in diagnosing endometriosis, damage from the disease can be significant. MBF is proud to support the World Congress on Endometriosis in Australia in March where we hope light will be shed on improved diagnostic methods and treatments for the disease." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about endometriosis.
4th March 2008: Resistance training: pulling your weight...
"Resistance training doesn’t have to involve going to the gym or using weights. You can do strength training just by using your own body weight as resistance, such as in pilates or yoga. It plays an important role in strengthening your bones and protecting your joints that helps prevent falls later in life and can even help control diabetes. You can even do it in the comfort of your own home or if you’re out walking take two bottles of water with you which can act as dumbbells." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF’s Chief Medical Officer. Read more about resistance training.
24th January 2008: Lung cancer: the high health price for legacy of smoking...
"Sadly an increasing number of Australian women are paying the price for taking up smoking at a time when tobacco companies ruthlessly marketed their products as a socially acceptable habit. For smokers today the proven link to lung cancer makes it more important than ever to consider your future health and wellbeing by quitting smoking. MBF encourages you to take that positive step – talk to your doctor or call 13QUIT - getting help will significantly improve your chances of success." MBF’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Christine Bennett. Read more about lung cancer.
27th November 2007: Persistent pain: a costly pain to bear...
"Persistent pain is one of the most costly healthcare problems in Australia with one in five Australian adults suffering from the condition. The human cost on individuals and families is also significant since many of these Australians bear more than half the cost themselves. Now that we know the cost of pain, we can take positive steps towards improving the lives of Australians living with persistent pain." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about persistant pain.
13th November 2007: Prostate cancer...
"Prostate cancer affects so many Australian men and their families. We encourage everyone to have an annual general health check which may include a prostate check for men over 45. Ladies, please encourage the men in your life to have this simple health check." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about prostate cancer.
6th November 2007: Hangovers: the dangers of drinking alcohol to excess...
"Drinking alcohol in moderation can be enjoyable and one or two drinks may even have some small benefit for cardiovascular health. But excessive drinking can quickly become problematic for individuals, their health and their familles. Drink responsibly to help minimise the negative effects of alcohol. Stick to safe drinking practices such as substituting every alcoholic drink for a non-alcoholic one, not drinking on an empty stomach and designating a driver before you go out, which can make a big difference to how you feel the next day and your long term wellbeing." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about hangovers.
30th October 2007: Sleep - the forgotten dimension of good health...
"People tend to forget that sleep is the third dimension of health and wellbeing after exercise and a healthy diet. It is no surprise that more than half of Australians report that they don't get enough sleep. Sleep experts recommend that adults get 7-8 hours sleep each night with teenagers needing up to 10 hours. With many students currently sitting their Year 12 exams, getting a good night sleep is as important as last minute study." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about sleep.
23rd October 2007: IVF - Where are we now...
"There is no stronger force than the desire for a family and IVF has provided a solution for many couples. IVF research is ongoing and the possibility of successful pregnancies is improving. This fact file has up to date on current expert thinking in relation to IVF and trends in usage of fertility programs." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about IVF.
9th October 2007: Are your parents ageing gracefully? Health issues to watch for...
"Ageing gracefully is something to strive for both for ourselves and our parents. As we get older, our risk of developing disease increases so it is more important than ever to live a healthy life. It is also important that as our parents age we support them in managing their health, wellbeing and safety if necessary. There are signs we can look for to gauge whether they need assistance and agencies that can support carers and parents" Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about ageing gracefully.
2nd October 2007: Type 2 diabetes and obesity still on the rise - a weighty concern
"It's a real worry that Australians are becoming desensitised to the obesity problem. Our environment is adapting to our weight rather than us addressing the issue. 80 - 90% of people that develop type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese emphasising the need to maintain a healthy weight or take positive steps to reduce weight if necessary. People with obesity are at far greater risk of developing diabetes. People with diabetes are well known to be at high risk of developing major health problems so preventing or delaying the onset of the disease is so important." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about type 2 diabetes.
25th September 2007 Fact sheet: the pros and cons of male circumcision
"Male circumcision is a complex and emotive health issue that continues to generate great debate in the community and the medical profession. Foremost is the baby's welfare. The current prevailing public policy in Australia suggests that there is no medical indication for routine neonatal circumcision. However, recent evidence does demonstrate a higher risk of some health problems in uncircumcised males. Ultimately, it is the parents' decision, which should be respected and based on balanced, well-informed, comprehensive information. If you do decide to have your son circumcised, ensure it's done by an appropriate and experienced practitioner." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about circumcision.
18th September 2007: Spring clean your health
"With spring officially upon us, it's a great time to take stock of our health and recharge before summer. Simple changes are a good first step but if you're not sure where to start, visit your GP for an annual general health check. New season's fruits and vegetables can help you get creative with healthy salads and fruity snacks and if your exercise routine has slipped, make the most of the warmer weather and get active." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about spring cleaning your health.
11th September 2007: Save your skin: what you need to know about burns, scarring and body piercing
"Every year thousands of children are admitted to hospital with burns, sending a clear message to parents to be vigilant and keep hot liquids, heating devices and very hot meals out of a child's way. Many young males receive burns at work, highlighting the importance of stringent occupational safety initiatives. MBF encourages everyone to make sure they know how to apply first aid to someone who has received a burn as first aid can have a significant and positive impact on a patient's outcome." MBF’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Christine Bennett. Read more about burns.
4th September 2007: The wise traveller: when not to get on a plane
"Flying with a cold may seem trivial but unless you implement some basic personal infection control it can make the passengers around you quite uncomfortable and possibly pass on whatever you have. If you have a more serious medical condition, take time when planning your holiday to understand the risks involved before you get on a flight. If you really need to fly, check with your GP and if necessary obtain medical clearance." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about healthy travelling.
28th August 2007: High blood pressure: how it can harm your health
"Hypertension is often called the 'silent killer' as it has no obvious warning signs. That is why it is very important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Even just making small changes to your lifestyle can make such a positive difference to your health" Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about hypertension.
21st August 2007: Chronic Pain Management
"Around a million Australians who might normally enjoy productive lives struggle with persistent or chronic pain. The pain can interfere with their daily lives and can be so extreme that it can sometimes result in suicidal thoughts or actions." Dr Christine Bennett, MBF's Chief Medical Officer. Read more about chronic pain management.
7th August 2007: The Cervical Cancer Vaccine
"It is exciting to think that there is now a vaccine that can have a dramatic impact on preventing cervical cancer. And even more exciting to think that the vaccine was developed right here in Australia by Professor Ian Frazer." Dr Christine Bennett, Chief Medical Officer. Read more on the Vaccine.
14th August 2007: Demystifying childhood diabetes: the facts about type 1 vs type 2
"Australia's current influenza outbreak is being linked to an increase in type 1 diabetes - often referred to as juvenile diabetes because it affects young people - and it's important to cut through any confusion so that parents know why and what they should do." Dr Christine Bennett, Chief Medical Officer. Read more about childhood diabetes.
