Is Dr Google fuelling your hypochondria?

Is Dr Google fuelling your hypochondria?

Author: ABC Australia January 2, 2026 Duration: 39:59
Anxiety can manifest in an excessive worry about your health, and it can be debilitating. But there are effective treatments.  Also, antidepressants can be difficult to come off because of the withdrawal symptoms. An expert highlights the need to better educate patients and doctors on deprescribing.  Another instalment of Stroke of Luck, a series on the experience of having a stroke and the recovery process.  And a look back at the year: infectious diseases.  References Why the US measles outbreak is so concerning How Australia's measles vaccine coverage compares to the US Antidepressant prescribing in Australian primary care: time to reevaluate RELEASE information and resources Health anxiety information and workbook Health anxiety in Australia: prevalence, comorbidity, disability and service use | The British Journal of Psychiatry The global economic burden of health anxiety/hypochondriasis- a systematic review Increase in the prevalence of health anxiety in medical clinics: Possible cyberchondria Cognitive behavior therapy for health anxiety: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical efficacy and health economic outcomes A clinician’s quick guide to evidence-based approaches: health anxiety

Tune in to Health Report for a clear-eyed look at the medical news that actually impacts your life. Hosted by Dr Norman Swan and Dr Preeya Alexander, this ABC podcast cuts through the noise of health headlines, offering grounded analysis and practical context. Each episode is a conversation that breaks down complex research, emerging health threats, and wellness trends, separating evidence from hype. You’ll hear them dissect new studies, interview experts, and answer the questions that arise from weekly health scares and breakthroughs. It’s for anyone who wants to move beyond soundbites and understand the science behind their wellbeing, from nutrition and exercise to major public health policies. This isn't just about information; it's about building a deeper, more useful understanding of how to navigate the ever-changing world of health. Join Norman and Preeya for thoughtful discussions that make sense of it all, ensuring you’re equipped with knowledge that makes a tangible difference.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Health Report
Podcast Episodes
Can ChatGPT Health tell when you should go to hospital? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:37
Can you trust the advice ChatGPT Health gives about whether you should go to the hospital or not? Who is using GLP-1 weight loss drugs and how common are they? New guidelines for supporting young people with suicidal ide…
Treating a medical emergency ... in space [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:27
When a medical emergency happens in space, how is it treated? And what does life in Antarctica have to teach us about staying healthy on a spaceflight? Findings from a large study of Australian teenagers find links betwe…
What to expect this flu season [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:02
Which flu strains are likely to be dominant this flu season - and what's the story with the new nasal spray vaccine? Speaking of sprays ... there's a simple saline spray that might help kids with sleep apnoea avoid surge…
3D printing in healthcare [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:18
3D printing is becoming an incredibly versatile modern tool - with scope to apply it to engineering, manufacturing, architecture and design challenges. And it's increasingly being used in ... healthcare. Plus, Kylie and…
Ultra-processed foods and behaviour in kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:06
There's been major buzz in recent years over ultra-processed foods and whether they may be harmful to our health. A new study out of Canada has measured what toddlers eat and how much of it is ultra-processed - and then…
MDMA therapy's side effects [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:17
MDMA psychotherapy was approved in Australia three years ago. Who's using it and what do we know about treatment side effects? Vaccine reminders can help nudge people back on track, but how the message is framed matters.…
Are Australian kids eating too much salt? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:30
Are Australian schoolkids eating too much salt? And does it put them at risk of high blood pressure? A new approach to breast cancer screening based on risk could reduce the number of screens needed for some women. There…
Can AI chatbots be good therapists? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:14
We know many people are turning to generative AI for health advice, including tips on how to manage stress, anxiety and low mood. When is it safe to turn to a chatbot, and when do you need to see a real human being? And…
Wait, does exercise help osteoarthritis? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:19
A paper has suggested exercise has minimal, short-term effects on osteoarthritis. But experts are warning people with the condition that they shouldn't stop moving. Also, school kids are being called on to help in the fi…
Prescribing exercise for mental health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:55
Researchers have pin-pointed the best exercise routines for depression or anxiety symptoms, and they might be equal to medication and talk therapy. Also, why states and territories are making changes to their maternity c…