Risk Checker

Find out if you're at risk of heart disease, kidney disease or type 2 diabetes in just a few minutes using the healthdirect Risk Checker.

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Should I be tested for heart disease?

Understanding heart disease risk can help you reduce your risk and protect your heart. Find out more about heart disease risk and heart disease tests.

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5 ways to reduce your risk of heart disease

Nine in 10 Australians have at least one risk factor for heart disease, but there are ways to reduce your risk and keep your heart healthy.

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Health risks after a cyclone or flood

Here's a list of common health risks and hazards that can strike during floods and cyclones, such as contaminated floodwater and snake bites.

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15 minutes of walking could reduce your risk of disease

Walking 15 minutes a day could reduce your risk of heart disease, dementia and some cancers, says the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

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Rural men face greater risk of health problems, including suicide

Men who live in rural and remote Australia are more at risk of many health issues, such as obesity and suicide. Even in the outback, help is available.

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Find out your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and kidney disease with this quick test

Healthdirect, with the George Institute, has developed a free online risk calculator to help prevent heart disease, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.

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Hot weather risks and staying cool

Hot days and heatwaves can place extreme stress the body, and for some it can be dangerous. Here’s how to keep yourself and others cool and hydrated.

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Reducing your risk of developing a blood clot

Blood clots occur to prevent you from losing too much blood. They can form inside a vein and move to your lungs, causing pain or serious complications.

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Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors that raise the risk of stroke, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Find out its symptoms and treatments.

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PrEP, the pill that can stop HIV infection, on PBS from April 1

A drug that can prevent HIV infection known as pre-exposure prophylaxis, or 'PrEP', is to be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

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Statins

Statins are medicines used to lower cholesterol and are recommended for people at risk of cardiovascular disease. Here's how statins work.

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Manage your health in your 40s

Be aware of the health conditions that affect people in their 40s. Learn how to reduce your risks and manage your health at this stage of life.

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Mammography

A mammogram is a type of x-ray used to screen for breast cancer. Learn more about the process, plus the benefits and risks of mammography.

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Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. A quick diagnosis is vital. Find out about the risks and symptoms of endocarditis here.

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Quick read: Your infectious period

Learn if you are still infectious while you are recovering from COVID-19, or if you are putting others at risk.

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Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a blood disorder that increases the risk of blood clots and pregnancy complications. Learn more here.

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Bushfires and your health

Bushfires and smoke pose health risks, especially to those with conditions such as asthma. Prepare, get emergency medicines and stay informed.

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Accidental overdose of medicine

Accidental overdose of medicine is very dangerous, but preventable. Here's how to avoid the risk of overdose, and the medicines that need special care.

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How to avoid COVID-19

There are many ways to reduce your risk of COVID-19, including physical distancing, wearing a mask, hand washing and getting vaccinated.

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Beta blockers

Beta blockers are medicines used to treat some heart conditions. Learn about potential risks, benefits and how they work.

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Breast checks to detect breast cancer

Your risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Here’s how to recognise symptoms and detect it early.

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Tubal ligation

Tubal ligation is a permanent form of contraception or sterilisation. Read about the benefits, risks and alternatives to having your tubes tied.

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Safe sex

By practicing safe sex, you will prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infection (STIs) and minimise the risk of unplanned pregnancy.

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Gestational diabetes

Learn about the causes, risk factors and potential complications of gestational diabetes, when during pregnancy it occurs, and how it can be managed.

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Elective splenectomy

An elective splenectomy is usually recommended for certain problems with your blood and to remove the life-threatening risk of your spleen rupturing.

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This festive season, don't give your loved ones food poisoning

With the festive season comes the risk of food poisoning. Follow these tips to stay healthy and safe when entertaining at home.

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Circumcision

Circumcision surgically removes the foreskin of the penis. This may be done for different reasons. Learn about the risks and benefits of circumcision.

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Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a prescription opioid medicine. Learn about how it works, when to use it, and its potential risks and side effects.

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Hydration tips for children

Children are sometimes at risk of dehydration, especially in hot weather and when exercising. These tips will help keep them safe and healthy.

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