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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Suicide warning signs

By knowing the warning signs of suicide, those who are most at risk, and by being aware of how to access support, you could help save a life. Find out more.

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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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How to talk to someone about diabetes

Almost 300 Australians are diagnosed with diabetes every day. But type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed, if you know the risk factors.

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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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Coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as ‘ischaemic heart disease’, is the most common form of heart disease. Learn how to reduce your risk.

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Knee pain

Knee pain is a common problem with a number of causes. Read about risk factors, symptoms, treatments and diagnosis.

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Peripheral vascular disease

Peripheral vascular disease refers to diseases of arteries outside the heart and brain, mainly in the legs and feet. Learn about the risk factors.

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Thrombosis

Thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is where a blood clot forms in a vein or artery. Learn about the risk factors and how to prevent it.

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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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Heart attack symptoms: men vs women

Heart disease often goes undiagnosed in women, partly because symptoms can develop later. Learn more about why heart disease differs in men and women.

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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the bones, causing them to become weak and fragile. Learn about its treatment, management and prevention.

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Why a diabetes test might be overdue for you

Diabetes is being diagnosed too late in many Australians, and by delaying a visit to the doctor they put themselves at risk of life-threatening health problems.

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Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is most common in women aged over 50. Find out about the different types and the symptoms, which can be difficult to recognise.

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Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy damages the nervous system and muscle control, affecting movement and coordination. While the cause is often unknown, there are risk factors.

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Manage your health in your 50s

Once you’re in your 50s, you need to be aware of the health conditions that increasingly affect people at this age. Learn how to reduce your risks and to manage your health at this stage of life.

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Manage your health in your 40s

Once you’re in your 40s, you need to be aware of the health conditions that increasingly affect people at this age. Learn how to reduce your risks and to manage your health at this stage of life.

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Causes of psychosis

While no one knows exactly what causes psychosis, it could be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Drug abuse can also be a trigger.

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Gestational diabetes

Find out 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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Lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Learn about the causes and symptoms of, and treatments for, this serious disease.

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Mental illness

One in 5 Australians will experience a mental illness in any given year. Here is information on causes and symptoms of mental illness, and where to find help.

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Oesophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer develops in the ‘tube’ between the throat and the stomach. It’s a very serious condition and important to know the risk factors.

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Manage your health in your 60s

If you are in your 60s, you should be aware of common conditions, their signs and symptoms, and how to prevent them to stay healthy.

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Healthy bones

From your 40s onwards, bones gradually lose their density. Follow these steps to help keep your bones healthy and avoid osteoporosis.

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Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference

Learn to estimate whether or not you are a healthy weight by calculating your body mass index (BMI) and measuring your waist circumference.

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Osteopaenia

People with osteopaenia have bones that are weaker than normal. Osteopaenia is not as severe as osteoporosis but you still have to be careful if you’re at risk.

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Ebola virus

Ebola is a rare and often fatal illness. Learn about the Ebola virus, who’s at risk, symptoms and treatment options.

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Body image

An unhealthy body image affects your wellbeing and mental health, and may lead to eating disorders. Here are a few tips for improving body image.

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Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the lungs, caused by one or more blood clots. Here's how to spot the signs.

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Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects a baby’s spine from early pregnancy. Ensuring enough folate in the diet is the best way to reduce the risk of spina bifida.

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