A mint idea

Australian researchers have developed a high‑performance coating made from peppermint essential oil that can be applied to the surfaces of many commonly used medical devices, offering a safer way to protect patients from infection and inflammation.

Why can’t they just stop? Understanding the addicted brain

People often view addiction as a moral failing or a series of bad choices but modern neuroscience suggests that addiction to drugs or the dopamine hits offered by personal technology is a chronic medical condition that changes how the brain works.

Small steps to a better life

Taking small steps towards a project even when motivation is low is the best way of getting things done. Sending the message, starting the job or stepping outside are small beginnings that often spark the satisfaction or hope we were waiting for, encouraging us to do more.

Weighing the baby on a Wednesday morning

Babies are not just private joys. They are public futures. Parents are not just private individuals. They are doing essential work. And the community, through the state, has a role in making that work survivable.

The black dog

While science has made some progress in understanding depression, the life circumstances and personality traits which drive each person’s experience will always be unique.

Childhood vaccinations in freefall

Dangerous childhood diseases like whooping cough and measles were almost eliminated by high vaccination rates, but outbreaks are increasing across Australia as fewer children receive the jabs they need to protect them.

A shot in the arm for vaccinations

10,000 families participating in research by The Kids Research Institute Australia have demonstrated the potential of a simple text reminder to boost the number of children receiving their vaccinations on time.

Scrapping VicHealth makes no sense

Despite the proven potential for prevention initiatives to improve health and save money, Australian governments have consistently under-invested in them and the proposed scrapping of VicHealth is another blow to sensible policy making.

The sole of the matter

Your dad always said you should have good tyres on your car and your mum told you to wear proper shoes on your feet and, as usual, they were both right.

Back from the brink

Poor sleep, psychological distress, socioeconomic disadvantage and bad eating habits are strongly linked to greater risk of suicidal thoughts among adolescents according to new research from the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Get fit for retirement

A new South Australian study has found little change in most people’s diet and exercise after retirement – pointing to the need for positive lifestyle choices during your working life to maximise long-term health outcomes.

Genomic screening could save thousands of lives

A national genomic screening program could save thousands of Australians from preventable cancer and heart disease.