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Health News

Alzheimer’s drug results are promising – but let’s not get carried away

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Alzheimer’s drug results are promising – but let’s not get carried away

UNSW Sydney

Clinical trial results for lecanemab are a significant step rather than a ‘historic breakthrough’, say UNSW Alzheimer’s experts.

Partner companies Eisai and Biogen have recently announced promising clinical trial results for their new Alzheimer’s drug lecanemab. Over 18 months, patients treated with lecanemab experienced slower symptom progression than the placebo group. These results have been described as a ‘historic moment for dementia research’ – but what do they really mean for patients?

Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that leads to dementia – a decline in memory, reasoning and other thinking skills. Disease progression can initially be very slow, with changes in the brain occurring up to 25 years before symptoms arise. However, once these cognitive issues are present, living with Alzheimer’s can be very challenging for patients and their families.

Alzheimer’s has puzzled scientists for decades

There is some contention around what alterations in the brain drive Alzheimer’s disease, with several culprits identified so far.

“What actually causes Alzheimer’s disease is not really known… There’s some debate about how and when these processes happen,” says Scientia Professor Henry Brodaty AO, Co-Director of the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) at UNSW Sydney.

One of the prime suspects is a protein fragment called beta-amyloid, which is quite sticky and can accumulate in clumps in the brain, called ‘amyloid plaques’. These clumps of protein build up around neurons – the brain cells that power thinking.  The ‘amyloid hypothesis’ is a theory that amyloid plaques are the first step in the development of the disease.

Amyloid is directly toxic to brain cells, and also promotes the development of the other main brain pathology – neurofibrillary tangles in brain cells. The tangles are made of tau proteins that get knotted up inside neurons, blocking function and causing toxicity. Plaques also lead to the development of inflammation in the brain which is harmful to brain cells.

Limited treatments are available for Alzheimer’s

Most of the current Alzheimer’s drugs help to manage symptoms but can’t halt or reverse brain degeneration. They mainly work by maintaining levels of neurotransmitters – brain chemicals that neurons use to communicate with one another – which can be decreased in patients with Alzheimer’s.

“Research into Alzheimer’s treatments in the ’80s came up with the only current drugs on the market,” says Professor Peter Schofield AO, the CEO of Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) and professor at UNSW Medicine & Health.

“The existing drugs only target symptoms and provide a delay in disease progression. They’re not targeting the underlying disease cause.”

Treatments that target the underlying causes of a disease are referred to as disease-modifying. The drug aducanumab, which was also developed by Eisai and Biogen, is the only disease-modifying treatment that has been approved for Alzheimer’s. Aducanumab, marketed as Aduhelm, is an antibody that targets amyloid plaques and helps the immune system to clear them from the brain.

In 2021, aducanumab was approved for use in the US by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but it isn’t approved in other countries, including Australia and Europe. The FDA approval was highly controversial as clinical trials had failed to show that the drug caused an improvement in dementia symptoms, although the drug did clear amyloid plaques. Aducanumab treatment also led to a degree of brain swelling and/or bleeding in up to 40 per cent of clinical trial participants.

Lecanemab’s clinical trial results

Lecanemab is a new drug that works similarly to aducanumab – an antibody that promotes clearing of beta-amyloid from the brain. However, lecanemab targets amyloid fibrils, which are smaller clumps of protein that eventually turn into amyloid plaques.

“Lecanemab is designed a little bit differently. It’s trying to remove the amyloid fibrils,” says Professor Schofield. “Why wait until you’ve got a pile of garbage – the plaque? Why don’t you just pick up bits of litter on the way?”

Eisai and Biogen reported that in their latest 18-month clinical trial, symptom scores for patients treated with lecanemab had worsened 27 per cent less compared to those given a placebo. This has been met with much excitement as, unlike aducanumab and other previous treatments, lecanemab has shown the first evidence of slowing down Alzheimer’s progression.

At the same time, the limitations of these results can’t be ignored.

“These results provide a glimmer of hope in a field in which numerous previous trials have failed to achieve their primary outcomes,” says Scientia Professor Perminder Sachdev, Co-Director of CHeBA and Clinical Director of the Neuropsychiatric Institute of the Prince of Wales Hospital. “Whether this result is clinically meaningful is, however, still uncertain.”

Firstly, though statistically significant, the difference in symptoms between the treatment and placebo group in the trial was 0.45 points on an 18-point scale. Most clinicians in the field suggest that a greater difference is needed to impact patients’ lives, for example 1 to 2 points.

Secondly, lecanemab targets beta-amyloid build up but there are probably other contributors to Alzheimer’s progression – for example neurofibrillary tangles. These other changes would not be fixed with this drug.

It also must be acknowledged that, like aducanumab, lecanemab causes the potentially serious side effects of brain swelling and bleeding. In this recent clinical trial, 21 per cent of the treatment group versus 9 per cent of the placebo group experienced these changes on brain MRI scan.

Finally, Alzheimer’s disease is only one of many causes of dementia, so lecanemab won’t be of benefit to those with other causes, for example vascular changes and Parkinson’s disease. In very old people with more severe dementia, there are often multiple contributing factors. The lecanemab trial did not focus on this patient group – the drug’s impact was only tested in those with early or mild dementia caused by Alzheimer’s.

Not a breakthrough, but a positive step

Despite all these caveats, these latest findings are a significant step forward for Alzheimer’s research. Lecanemab is the first-ever treatment that slows down symptom progression, even if the effect is small.

“We still have a long way to go until we have what everyone wants. A treatment for Alzheimer’s for themselves, their loved one, their parent, that is affordable and efficacious,” says Professor Schofield. “But it looks like we’ve got a first foot on the ladder.”

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NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

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Regional Health Deployment Program

NSW Expands Successful Short-Term Regional Health Deployment Program

 

By Jeff Gibbs

A highly successful regional, rural, and remote health deployment program is set for expansion over the next three years, with NSW Health recruiting nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals for short-term placements across the state.

Launched in May 2023, the NSW Health Deployment Program was designed to address critical workforce needs by creating a pipeline of skilled health professionals for short-term roles ranging from two to 13 weeks. These placements offer a unique opportunity for healthcare workers to travel and work in regional, rural, and remote parts of NSW—with travel and accommodation costs fully covered.

The program’s success has seen 90 staff complete hundreds of deployments in priority areas such as nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech pathology, and physiotherapy. NSW Health will now expand the program, increasing the team to around 400 health professionals to provide even greater support to regional communities.

Career and Lifestyle Opportunities

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park praised the program as a critical solution to one of the state’s biggest challenges—recruiting and retaining healthcare staff in rural and remote areas.

“Recruitment and retention of healthcare staff in rural, regional, and remote hospitals is one of the biggest issues we face,” Minister Park said.

“This innovative program is not only attracting health workers to regional communities but also strengthening these areas by maintaining essential health services. I’ve heard stories of many professionals who found the experience so rewarding that they chose to stay, providing lasting benefits for patients and the community.”

Luke Sloane, NSW Health Deputy Secretary for Rural and Regional Health, called the program a fantastic career and lifestyle opportunity for health professionals seeking new experiences.

“It’s an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally,” Mr. Sloane said. “Many participants form lifelong friendships in the close-knit communities that welcome them with open arms.”

A First-Hand Perspective

Speech Pathologist Saffron Foy, who took part in the program, said it was a valuable experience that allowed her to expand her skills and embrace a new lifestyle.

“I joined the NSW Health Deployment Program because I wanted a change, and I loved the experience of working in unique and supportive rural communities,” Ms. Foy said.

“At first it was a little nerve-wracking, but the teams I was deployed to were so welcoming and inclusive that my nerves quickly disappeared. I highly recommend giving it a go—it’s a chance to experience something new, improve your skills, and enjoy a different lifestyle.”

Ongoing Recruitment and Expansion

NSW Health is currently recruiting healthcare workers from more than 20 professions for short-term positions in hospitals and health facilities across the state.

The Minns Labor Government has introduced a series of measures to bolster the state’s health workforce, including:

  • Safe Staffing Levels initiative in emergency departments
  • Permanent funding for 1,112 full-time nurses and midwives
  • Abolishing the wages cap and delivering the highest pay increase in over a decade for nurses and health workers
  • $200.1 million investment in key worker accommodation
  • Deployment of 500 additional paramedics to regional, rural, and remote communities
  • Increased subsidies for regional health workers

Healthcare workers interested in short-term placements can register their interest via the NSW Health website.

 

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Should Teachers Police Lunch Boxes? The Debate Over Healthy Eating in Schools

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Healthy Eating in Schools

Should Teachers Police Lunch Boxes? The Debate Over Healthy Eating in Schools

 

By Robert Heyward

As schools across Australia strive to promote healthier eating habits among students, an emerging debate questions whether teachers should have the authority to regulate what children bring in their lunch boxes. Parents and dietitian’s argue that while encouraging nutritious choices is important, strict food policies—such as sending food home or preventing children from eating packed items—could do more harm than good, especially amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Lunch Box Scrutiny: Parents Speak Out

Marissa Waters, a mother from Clear Mountain in Moreton Bay, has encountered firsthand the scrutiny that some schools apply to children’s lunches. She recalls instances where her children’s snacks, considered harmless by her standards, were deemed inappropriate by school staff.

“They might have a treat—if you’d even call it that—like a muesli bar or an oat slice, and it would get sent home,” she explained. “My son, who’s in Grade One, wasn’t even allowed to eat it.”

Her daughter, currently in kindergarten, faced a different challenge. “She’s a slow eater, and they wouldn’t let her eat the sweet treats until she finished her entire lunch. But because of the time constraints, she missed out altogether.”

For Waters’ son, who has additional needs and struggles with certain foods, the rigid approach has only made mealtime more difficult.

“For them to say, ‘Pack cucumber’—I can tell you now, he won’t eat it,” she said. “They need to consider the individual needs of children, especially those with dietary sensitivities. If half the lunch goes uneaten and comes home, it’s just wasteful.”

The Psychological Impact of Food Policing

Paediatric dietitian Fiona Nave warns that imposing restrictions on children’s lunches could have unintended psychological consequences.

“We never want to associate shame with food choices,” she said. “Sending an item home or forbidding a child from eating it creates an emotional connection to food that we should be avoiding.”

Waters has also noticed inconsistencies in her son’s school’s approach to healthy eating.

“A child in his class brought cupcakes for a birthday, and they were sent home,” she said. “Yet, the tuckshop sells chocolate chip cookies, brownies, meat pies, and other ‘red food’ items. It doesn’t make sense.”

Nave agrees that schools should ensure tuckshops align with their own messaging.

“Tuckshops work hard to provide variety, but they should consider how they can make healthier swaps,” she suggested. “For example, using high-quality lean meat in sausages and serving them on wholemeal bread instead of hot dogs. Even swapping breaded chicken for grilled chicken can make a difference.”

Who Decides What’s in the Lunch Box?

Waters believes that ultimately, it should be parents who decide what their children eat. Nave, while advocating for balanced nutrition, agrees that communication between teachers and parents is key.

“Teachers have the best intentions, but if there are concerns about a child’s nutrition, conversations should be approached with sensitivity,” she said. “No parent should feel judged, but they should also be mindful of how food choices impact their child’s learning and energy levels.”

Education Queensland has clarified that while schools can encourage healthy eating, the contents of a child’s lunch box remain the responsibility of parents.

“Our Smart Choices strategy provides guidelines for tuckshops but does not regulate home-packed meals,” a spokesperson said.

What Makes a Healthy Lunch Box?

For parents aiming to pack a nutritious and balanced meal, Nave offers a simple formula:

  • Fruits and vegetables: Crunchy options like tomatoes, cucumbers, snow peas, or raw carrots
  • Protein: Lean meats such as grilled chicken, falafel, cheese cubes, or yoghurt
  • Carbohydrates: Wholegrain sandwiches, rice, or pasta

When it comes to discretionary foods, she stresses the importance of balance.

“Forty percent of children’s diets come from processed, low-nutrient foods,” she noted. “If a child isn’t getting enough nutritious food at school, parents should look for opportunities to introduce fruits and vegetables at other times of the day.”

As the debate continues, one question remains: where is the line between promoting healthy habits and over-policing children’s diets? With the cost of living on the rise, ensuring every child gets enough to eat—without shame or restriction—should be the priority.

 

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Public Health Alert: Suspected Case of Botulism Linked to Unregulated Anti-Wrinkle Injections

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Public Health Alert: Suspected Case of Botulism Linked to Unregulated Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Public Health Alert: Suspected Case of Botulism Linked to Unregulated Anti-Wrinkle Injections

 

By Ian Rogers

NSW Health Issues Urgent Warning Over Cosmetic Injection Risks

NSW Health has issued a public health alert following a suspected case of botulism in a Sydney woman, believed to be linked to an unregulated anti-wrinkle injection administered at a private residence. The woman is currently receiving intensive care at a Sydney hospital as health authorities investigate the case.

Authorities are urging the public to ensure that cosmetic procedures, including anti-wrinkle injections, are only performed by appropriately registered and licensed practitioners. NSW Health is working closely with the Health Care Complaints Commission and NSW Police to examine the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, Executive Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, emphasized the severe health risks associated with unregulated cosmetic procedures.

“Cosmetic injections, when improperly administered, can cause severe health complications, including life-threatening conditions,” Dr. McAnulty stated. “Although botulism is rare, it can be fatal, which is why it is crucial to receive cosmetic treatments only from authorised medical professionals.”

Understanding the Risks: Symptoms of Botulism

Botulism is a serious condition caused by toxins that affect the nervous system, leading to progressive muscle paralysis. Symptoms may appear up to two weeks after exposure and can worsen rapidly. NSW Health is urging anyone who has recently undergone cosmetic injections, especially from unregulated sources, to be vigilant for the following symptoms:

  • Progressive muscle weakness
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
  • Blurred or double vision (diplopia)
  • Difficulty breathing

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by visiting the nearest emergency department or calling Triple Zero (000) for emergency assistance.

The Importance of Choosing Licensed Practitioners

The incident highlights the risks associated with cosmetic procedures performed outside of accredited medical facilities. NSW Health advises consumers to verify the credentials of any practitioner before undergoing treatment. Only registered professionals with appropriate training should be performing cosmetic injections.

“The use of botulinum toxin in cosmetic treatments requires expert knowledge to ensure patient safety,” Dr. McAnulty stressed. “Unregulated providers may not only lack the necessary expertise but may also be using unsafe or counterfeit products.”

Where to Seek Advice and Assistance

For non-emergency health concerns, individuals can contact Healthdirect Australia at 1800 022 222 for professional medical advice. This free service connects callers with registered nurses who can provide guidance on appropriate care options.

Consumers are also encouraged to report any concerns regarding unregulated cosmetic treatments to the Health Care Complaints Commission for further investigation.

With the increasing popularity of cosmetic enhancements, NSW Health urges the public to prioritise safety over convenience. Choosing a qualified practitioner not only ensures better results but also protects individuals from serious and potentially life-threatening health risks.

 

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Coalition to Reinstate Full Medicare-Supported Mental Health Services

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Kevin Hogan at the new Mental Health Services Headspace in Grafton

Coalition to Reinstate Full Medicare-Supported Mental Health Services

 

By Jeff Gibbs

The Coalition has announced its commitment to reinstate the 20 Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions, which were halved by the current government. This move aims to ensure Australians have access to the mental health support they need.

Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, highlighted the urgency of restoring these services amidst rising costs of living and increasing mental health challenges.

“With the cost of living going up, many families and individuals are struggling, and the Government’s cuts have left people without the care they need,” Mr. Hogan said.

Criticism of Current Cuts

Mr. Hogan strongly criticised the Labor Government’s decision to reduce the sessions from 20 to 10, claiming it ignores the needs of Australians living with long-term mental health conditions.

“By making these cuts, the Government has ignored the needs of Australians who live with long-term mental health issues. This shows they don’t take mental health seriously or see it as a priority.”

A Commitment to Mental Health

The Coalition’s proposal aims to ensure individuals have access to the full care their doctors recommend.

“We understand how important it is for people with mental health challenges to get the full support their doctors recommend. We will make sure they have access to that care,” Mr. Hogan said.

Mental Health as a National Priority

The Coalition believes mental health should be treated as a national priority. By reinstating the full subsidy, the party aims to deliver affordable, compassionate, and effective care to Australians in need.

This policy commitment underscores the Coalition’s recognition of mental health as a cornerstone of well-being and their dedication to addressing the needs of the community.

 

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Does Watching TV Increase Dementia Risk?

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Does watching TV increase dementia risk

Does Watching TV Increase Dementia Risk?

 

By Robert Heyward

New research from the University of South Australia (UniSA) sheds light on the relationship between sedentary activities and cognitive health, revealing that the type of sedentary behaviour plays a significant role in maintaining brain function.

The study, which assessed the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults aged 60 and above, underscores that not all sitting activities are equal when it comes to protecting cognitive abilities.

Which Activities Benefit Brain Health?

The findings reveal that sedentary activities involving mental stimulation or social engagement — such as reading, crafting, listening to music, praying, playing a musical instrument, or chatting with others — are beneficial for memory and thinking skills.

In contrast, passive behaviours like watching television or playing video games were found to have a detrimental effect on cognitive health.

According to researchers, there appears to be a hierarchy in how different sedentary activities impact the brain. Some activities support cognitive function, while others may increase the risk of decline. This insight is crucial, especially since approximately 45% of dementia cases are potentially preventable through modifiable lifestyle factors.

Why Context Matters

Dr. Maddison Mellow, a UniSA researcher, emphasised the importance of understanding the context of sedentary behaviours.

“We discovered that the context of an activity significantly influences how it relates to cognitive function. Activities that encourage mental stimulation or social interaction, such as reading or conversing with friends, are far more beneficial than passive activities like TV watching or gaming.”

While physical activity remains a top recommendation for reducing dementia risk, Dr. Mellow highlighted that even swapping one sedentary activity for a more engaging one could improve brain health.

“Our findings suggest a need for a more nuanced approach. For brain health, the message isn’t just about ‘moving more and sitting less’ — it’s about choosing activities that engage the mind and foster connection.”

How to Support Cognitive Health

Taking care of your brain doesn’t require drastic lifestyle changes. Small, intentional adjustments can have lasting benefits:

  • Prioritise enjoyable physical activities: Regular movement that gets the heart rate up is highly protective for both brain and physical health.
  • Make time swaps: Replace some passive activities with mentally or socially stimulating ones. For instance, swap an hour of TV for reading, crafting, or talking with a friend.
  • Incorporate movement breaks: Even during a movie marathon or a gaming session, break up prolonged sitting with five-minute stretches or short bursts of physical activity.

“Every small change counts,” Dr. Mellow advised. “Even minor shifts, like choosing a book over binge-watching, can build healthier habits over time.”

Building a Cognitive Health Routine

With dementia risks largely influenced by lifestyle choices, integrating stimulating sedentary activities and regular physical movement into daily life can offer powerful protection against cognitive decline.

While it’s clear that physical activity remains the gold standard for brain health, this research highlights a key takeaway: not all sitting is bad, but the type of sedentary activity matters.

By making thoughtful choices in how we spend our time, we can nurture both mind and body, reducing the risk of dementia and fostering long-term well-being.

 

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