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Your go-to online resource for valuable general medical health tips and advice to manage your health and valuable information about health subjects that matter to you.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer - Signs, Symptoms and When to Act

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer - Signs, Symptoms and When to Act

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Pancreatic cancer is a particularly aggressive form of cancer that presents unique challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. It is often detected late due to subtle or vague early symptoms, making it one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose in its early stages. Despite being relatively uncommon, according to Cancer Council Australia affecting approximately 4,641 Australians in 2024, pancreatic cancer has a disproportionately high mortality rate, with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners ranking it as the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Australia.

Raising awareness about this disease is crucial, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. According to Pankind - Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer in Australia has improved to 13% for diagnoses made between 2015-2019, demonstrating the importance of continued research and awareness efforts.

At HIF, we understand that a cancer diagnosis can be a stressful time for you and your loved ones. That's why we offer tailored programs to support you through every stage of your cancer treatment. Our comprehensive approach addresses not only the physical aspects through hospital cover, but also the emotional challenges through mental health services and practical support through our health and wellbeing programs. We're committed to supporting members across the entire cancer journey, recognising that cancer care extends far beyond medical treatment to encompass the whole person and their support network.

Category:HIF News, General Medical, Conditions and Treatments
Articles 10 to 12 of 208

What If ... we covered the cost of your flu vaccination?.

At HIF, we value choice and access, which is why we are covering the cost of an annual flu vaccination up to the value of $20 (1 per person, per calendar year) on selected Extras policies, which include Pharmacy.

Members can get a flu vaccination at any registered pharmacy in Australia. The service is not available through your GP.

Find out more

Arthritis

Arthritis

Dr. Sam Hay
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Did you know arthritis affects about one in eight Australians? According to Dr Sam, "The term ‘arthritis’ means inflammation or swelling of the joints, and it’s a general name given to a big cluster of conditions. Whilst there are over a hundred conditions that fall under the ‘arthritis’ banner, over 95% are caused by osteoarthritis,  rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Regardless of the underlying cause, the main symptoms are relatively standard – joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.  Regrettably, Arthritis, no matter what the cause is not curable, however, it’s definitely manageable". In this article Dr. Sam discusses how early intervention can delay the progression and offers his advice on how we can make living with arthritis easier?
Category:General Medical, Conditions and Treatments
Does Your Child Have a Food Allergy?

Does Your Child Have a Food Allergy?

Dr. Sam Hay
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Did you know that nine common foods are responsible for over 90% of allergic reactions? According to our resident GP Dr. Sam, "Cow's milk, egg, peanut, sesame, soy, tree nuts, wheat and shellfish are the main culprits”. But what exactly causes a food allergy and more importantly why are they becoming increasingly more common in Australian kids? Well, current research indicates that a fear of allergies to foods such as peanuts has led many parents to delay when they introduce these types of foods to their babies. Despite their best intentions though, Dr Sam says that this has in fact compounded the issue – “as ALL foods must be introduced early in a baby’s diet.” In this latest article for HIF, Dr. Sam sifts through the facts to discuss what all parents really need to know about food allergies.

Category:General Medical, Raising Children, Conditions and Treatments
Fluoride and Thyroid Disorders

Fluoride and Thyroid Disorders

Dr. Emma
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Does fluoride-based toothpaste concern you? It certainly did for one of our blog readers recently, who sent in a question for Dr Emma. In response, Dr Emma discusses the pros and cons of using fluoride-based toothpaste, explains her concerns about ‘natural’ toothpastes, and explores the latest evidence regarding the effects of fluoride on dental decay.

Category:Dental Health, General Medical, Conditions and Treatments
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