June 2011

Increasing your child's future risk of heart attack? There's never been a better reason to quit

It's never been more important for pregnant women who smoke to kick the habit - after a new Australian study has shown women who smoke in pregnancy are putting their child at risk of heart attack or stroke later in life.

Bad habits linked to bowel cancer in blokes

Cancer Council Victoria is encouraging Victorian blokes to cut back on booze, get active and watch their waistline this Men's Health Week in order to prevent bowel cancer - a cancer that kills 761 Victorian men each year.

Snow fans exposed to double dose of the sun's UV rays

With the official ski season opening this weekend, SunSmart is encouraging Victorian skiers and snowboarders to steer clear of a ‘crash and burn' experience on the slopes this winter.

Less than half take home bowel cancer test despite high awareness

New Cancer Council research released today shows although more than 80% of people aged 50+ are aware of a simple, at-home screening test for bowel cancer, less than half of those aware of FOBT have actually done the test.

Floor price to hit hazardous drinkers not moderate drinkers

The Alcohol Policy Coalition congratulates Health Minister Nicola Roxon on her move to develop a national minimum price on alcohol, a move the APC says will reduce consumption amongst hazardous drinkers without penalising moderate drinkers.

Increased risk of vitamin D deficiency this winter

As Victorians prepare for the colder months, SunSmart is reminding health professionals that certain population groups face an increased risk of low or deficient vitamin D levels.