Healthcare

Japanese researchers have identified a health risk associated with using multiple high pillows at bedtime that increases the risk of stroke due to the neck bending position during sleep. The study, known as "shogun pillow syndrome," focused on cases of spontaneous vertebral artery dissection (sVAD) and found a correlation between the height of pillows and the likelihood of developing this condition.

NSW Health has agreed to pay nearly $230 million to settle a class action lawsuit alleging underpayment of junior doctors, marking the largest such settlement in Australian history. The settlement aims to address concerns over overtime, meal breaks, and working conditions for junior doctors in the state's public health system.

A parliamentary committee investigating health services in Far West NSW has warned of a crisis in the system, citing heavy reliance on fly-in locums and a lack of permanent staff. The committee is calling for a complete overhaul of how health is delivered in remote communities, emphasizing the need to attract and retain health professionals in these areas.

Haven, an 11-year-old child diagnosed with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), has been repeatedly hospitalized due to dangerously low blood sugar levels and a lack of long-term care. Haven's mother, Vanessa, feels trapped in a broken system where medical stabilization is offered but the root cause of Haven's ARFID remains unaddressed.

The Chair of Mental Health Australia, Matt Berriman, has resigned from his position, criticizing the Albanese government's lack of action on mental health issues. He expressed concerns about inadequate funding, ineffective spending, and the lack of attention given to mental health compared to other government priorities like defense and the NDIS.