Should we ban the use of controversial herbicide, paraquat?

Should we ban the use of controversial herbicide, paraquat?

Author: ABC Australia June 27, 2026 Duration: 42:25
A movement disorder specialist says the APVMA decision on the use of herbicide paraquat ignores evidence of the link with cases of Parkinson's disease. Analysis of patient data shows less than twenty percent of people attend a cardiac rehabilitation program after their hospital stay, despite the fact that it can make a huge difference to health outcomes.  There's been a substantial increase in vaccine concerns from parents, with changes to messaging on vaccines in the USA filtering through to Australia. A childhood immunisation expert outlines an approach to help turn this around. And a study shows most IVF add-on treatments do not result in more pregnancies. References: Statement from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority Chemical regulator approves restricted use of herbicide paraquat previously linked to Parkinson's disease Mapping patient outcomes associated with cardiac rehabilitation Childhood vaccine hesitancy, The New England Journal of Medicine Safety and effectiveness of ten common in-vitro fertilisation add-ons No evidence most IVF add-on treatments improve fertility Concerns regarding the public health risks associated with unapproved peptide products WA Health provides public health update following avian influenza detection in wild bird  

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: 50

Health Report
Podcast Episodes
Could a sleep supplement help reduce chronic pain? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:19
While looking for ways to treat pain in those with musculoskeletal disorders, researchers examined studies in which sleep supplement melatonin had been used. A study into the behaviour of immune cells in coeliac disease…
Bird flu has reached Australia. Now what? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:12
The first cases of H5N1 bird flu have been confirmed following the discovery and rescue of a sick bird on a remote beach in Western Australia. Since then more sick birds have been reported, with authorities stressing the…
Good and bad news on alcohol and disease risk [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:11
A new review brings together data from studies worldwide and shows that the impact of alcohol has been underestimated, but that changing drinking habits can reverse and slow down damage. Should gyms turn the volume down…
A crackdown on unregulated peptides [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:58
Genomic testing is cheaper than ever and can pick up a risk of disease in people with no family history. Should we expand it nation-wide? IUDs are a highly effective form of contraception, but some women are concerned ab…
Does exercise lower your biological age? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:35
Australia's specialist medical college for obstetrics and gynaecology is raising the alarm over proposed changes to abortion access in three Australian states. How physical activity influences your 'biological clock' - a…
The habits that protect your mental health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:37
This week, an update on the diphtheria outbreak across multiple Australian states. What's changed to allow the spread to occur? How to build healthier housing for remote communities - and it starts with maintenance. A ne…
Peptides: who's using them and what's in them? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:52
The popularity of peptides appears to be growing in Australia - what do we know about who is using them, what's in them and the risks? A large study of Australians with Parkinson's disease finds links to certain pesticid…
Ebola outbreak: how it spreads and prospects for a vaccine [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
The World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern over an outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. How does the disease spread, how can it be treated a…
Do you need surgery after an ACL tear? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:21
ACL injuries are very common in Australia - and the common thinking has been that if you tear your ACL, you'll need surgery. Researchers are arguing the best evidence says we should be looking to rehab first, and that fo…
'Fitspo' content and mental health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:33
Urgent care clinics are getting $1.8 billion in this year's federal budget to make them a permanent part of Australia's health system. We speak to the Health Minister Mark Butler about the decision. 'Fitspo' content that…