Weekly Blog 19.06.2017 – News – Australasia
‘Moderate’ Alcohol Consumption Linked to To Brain Death Decline
Alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels, is associated with an increased risk of adverse brain outcomes and steeper decline in cognitive skills, a study has found. Heavy drinking is known to be associated with poor brain health, but few studies have examined the effects of moderate drinking on the brain.
Healthy Diet and Exercise ‘Improves Cancer Survival Rates’
Research of nearly 1,000 colon cancer patients found that those who exercised regularly, ate more fruits and vegetables and avoided refined grains and meats had a 42% lower chance of death after seven years. Similarly, a study of more than 300 Australian breast cancer survivors who aimed to exercise for 180 minutes a week – most by simply walking – had far better rates of survival than those who were not part of an exercise programme.
Employers Contacting Sick Employees
More than half of business owners have contacted an employee while they were on sick leave, according to research from breatheHR. Employees reported that they felt pressure to continue working even when off sick, with one in five (20%) of those aged between 18- and 34-years-old claiming they respond to work emails when off sick, out of guilt. Managers may unintentionally be creating a culture where staff are expected to always be available.
Smoking Death Toll Almost Doubles In Seven Years
Tobacco use now kills more than seven million people every year, almost double the figure recorded in 2000. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said smoking is costing households and governments around the world over $1.4trn through healthcare expenditure and lost productivity. Tobacco is a key risk factor for heart disease, cancer and diabetes.