Endocrinology

Improved access to technology needed for people with Type 2 Diabetes needing insulin

By Australian Health Journal — 2 weeks ago

The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) provides subsidised products for diabetes management; however, disparities exist in access to technology between those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. While continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are subsidised for Type 1, they are not available for Type 2 diabetes. ADEA advocates for equitable access to these essential tools, emphasising that all individuals with diabetes deserve the resources necessary for optimal management and reduced risk of complications. Without such technologies, many are forced to rely on finger pricking, which can be inconvenient and unsafe in settings such as the workplace and in higher education.

Post Views: 440

Awareness, diagnosis and treatment of Congenital Hypothyroidism

By Australian Health Journal — 6 months ago

Australian Health Journal spoke to Associate Professor MIchelle Jack about congenital hypothyroidism and newborn screening and her concerns in the varying thresholds for across different states in Australia. Despite the existence of newborn screening programs since the 1970s, there is still controversy surrounding the appropriate screening levels. Congenital hypothyroidism, affecting about one in 3500 infants, can lead to severe intellectual and physical impairment if not diagnosed early. The condition is mainly caused by the thyroid gland’s failure to develop properly, resulting in insufficient thyroid hormone production.

Post Views: 1,092

Elevating Professional Standards in the Medtech and Pharmaceutical Sector

By Australian Health Journal — 9 months ago

ARCS Australia Ltd, the peak body representing professionals in the MedTech and Pharmaceutical sector, this week announced a series of significant changes at its annual conference.

Dr Tim Boyle, CEO of ARCS Australia Ltd speaking to Australian Health Journal says, “These initiatives are central to strategy to build professionalism within the sector, increase capability and enhance the professional standing of its members.”

Post Views: 2,612

1 million Australians with undiagnosed thyroid disorders remain at risk of irreparable damage

By Australian Health Journal — 10 months ago

The Australian Thyroid Foundation is a national not-for-profit organisation with charity status aimed at patients and the healthcare community. The ATF’s focus is to support and educate its member base and promote our Good Thyroid Health Messaging throughout the Australian Community.

Australian Thyroid Foundation, CEO Beverley Garside attending the breakfast gave her response to the Federal Budget and the Foundation’s pre-budget submission, which was not granted.

Post Views: 1,095

Awareness campaigns and HCP Toolkits for thyroid health

By Australian Health Journal — 12 months ago

In 2021, the Australian Thyroid Foundation released analysis to show, well over 1 million Australian are living with an undiagnosed thyroid disorder, including thyroid cancer, lower IQs, lifelong disability, and a causal or possible contributory factor – in the development of other neurological disorders such as ADHD and autism. Some of the challenges for diagnosis and treatment can be addressed by producing material for health care practitioners during patient presentations.

‘Recent statistics show well over 1 million Australians are living with an undiagnosed thyroid disorder, awareness and testing can prevent unwarranted outcomes for mothers and their babies’ says ATF CEO Beverley Garside OAM

The Australian Thyroid Foundation has lodged a Pre-Budget Submission for the Federal Budget 2024-25 to counter increasing misinformation on social media creating dietary deficiencies such as an increasing number of young women, who are planning pregnancy or already pregnant opting for plant based milks such almond, soy or oat milk coffee as an alternative to standard cow’s milk, which is a source of iodine and alternate milks do not include.

Post Views: 1,853

Thyroid health into pregnancy

By Australian Health Journal — 3 years ago

‘Without an adequate amount of thyroid hormone mothers can be exposed to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including gestational hypertension and preeclampsia or eclampsia, which affect around 10% of pregnant women and are the leading causes of maternal and neonatal mortality worldwide. Mothers who suffer from hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are at increased risk of long-term cardiovascular consequences and hypertensive disorders in subsequent pregnancies. Evidence also indicates a risk of reduced cognitive ability to their offspring.

‘Knowing if you are genetically predisposed to Hashimoto’s or Graves’ Diseases, which are both thyroid autoimmune disorders is important to be aware of, to ensure all appropriate tests are ordered. Autoimmune disorders may predispose mothers to a thyroid problem during pregnancy’, says Professor Creswell Eastman, who also serves as the ATF’s Principal Medical Advisor.