Be breast aware!

October is breast cancer awareness month. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and it affects both men and women. Early detection is key when it comes to breast cancer as it gives the best possible chance of survival.

Performing regular self breast checks and participating in national breast cancer screening are important ways to detect signs of breast cancer.

Encourage loved ones to be breast aware this October and always speak to your GP if you have any concerns and to discuss your individual circumstances.

To learn how to do a self breast check, what the signs and symptoms are and a bit more about screening - speak with your GP and visit the national Breast Cancer Foundation https://nbcf.org.au/about-breast-cancer/detection-and-awareness/

There has been a surge in the number of pregnant women becoming critically unwell with COVID-19. Below is a clip from the press conference showing a local Obstetrician from Monash Health giving important information relating to pregnancy and the COVID-19 vaccine.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-09-11/doctor-urges-pregnant-women-to-get-vaccinated/13537746

Did you know ~99% of bowel cancer cases can be successfully treated if detected early!?

Bowel cancer affects women and men, young and old – it does not discriminate!

During the early stages of bowel cancer there can be NO symptoms and this is why screening is so important.

Some symptoms may include:
- Blood in poo or bleeding from the back passage
- A recent, persistent change in usual bowel habit
- A change in the shape or appearance of poo
- Tummy pain or swelling
- Pain or a lump felt in the back passage
- Unexplained tiredness or weight loss

If any of these symptoms are present or persistent for more than 2 weeks, a visit to your GP is vital for further investigation.

For those aged 50-74, they will receive a funded screening test in the mail every 2 years as part of the national Bowel Cancer Screening Program – a simple test that can be done at home which is able to detect blood not visible to the naked eye. A screening test can be organised by contacting the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701.

If you or a loved one is concerned in any way, always consult your GP to discuss your individual symptoms or risk.

For more info visit: www.bowelcanceraustralia.org and https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program

April is Parkinson’s Disease awareness month.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive condition affecting the brain and a person’s control of their body’s movements. While the exact cause is unknown, it's estimated 2,225 Victorians are diagnosed with PD every year. There is no exact test to diagnose PD and because the symptoms and severity vary greatly, getting a diagnosis can take time.

Every person with PD is affected differently and no 2 people will have the same symptoms or treatment.

Some symptoms include (but not limited to):
- Resting tremor
- Muscle stiffness, sudden inability to move
- Stooped posture
- Shuffling gait
- Trouble sleeping
- Reduced volume of speech
- Small handwriting
- Loss of sense of smell
- Depression, constipation

Whilst PD cannot be cured, a range of treatments are available to manage the symptoms of PD to allow those with PD to live independent and productive lives.

If you are concerned you or a loved one may have symptoms of PD, or are concerned in any way, speak to your GP.

For more info: www.parkinsons.org.au, www.parkinsonsvic.org.au

HEALTH ALERT!

Once again the Victorian Department of Health has issued a warning regarding poisonous mushrooms present around metro Melbourne and regional Victoria.

The death cap and the yellow staining are the most common poisonous mushrooms found in Melbourne and have been responsible for a number of recent deaths.

- Unless you're an expert, do NOT pick or eat wild mushrooms in Victoria.
- Purchasing mushrooms from a greengrocer or store is safest
- Remove mushrooms growing in backyards as soon as possible, especially if you have small children or own a pet.
- If any doubt, DO NOT eat the mushroom.
- Cooking, peeling or drying them does NOT inactivate, nor remove the poison

If ingested, symptoms include: stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, liver damage and can cause death within 48hrs.

If you’re concerned that a poisonous mushroom has been consumed, DO NOT wait for symptoms to occur before seeking medical attention.

Contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre IMMEDIATELY 13 11 26 (24/7, Aus wide) and seek medical attention ASAP.

We will be CLOSED over the Easter break and will be re-opening Tuesday the 6th of April.

We wish you all a safe and happy Easter long weekend!