Compiled by Dr Muiris Houston and Sylvia Thompson
SCHOOL IMPACTS: Happy school days lead to healthier lives, according to recent findings in the World Health Organisation study, Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children. For instance, only four in 10 Irish 15 year olds who enjoyed school reported two or more health symptoms (e.g. headaches, stomach aches, dizziness, etc) while nine out of ten 15 year olds with a negative school experience did.
The number of 11 to 15 year olds who smoke and have a negative experience of school (32 per cent) is almost double the numbers of those who smoke and are happy at school (17 per cent).
MEDICATION ISSUE: A new study shows patients with chronic conditions have problems with new medication. Patients who were prescribed new medication for conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease were interviewed. The results showed that by 10 days 13 out of 239 patients had stopped medication on medical advice and 67 were non-compliant. By week four, 26 of the remaining patients had stopped treatment on medical advice and 43 (25 per cent) had stopped themselves. Patients cited concerns over potential or actual side effects, the lack of relevant information for their specific needs and practical problems.
HOME RISK: Accidents in the home are the single greatest cause of visits to A&E departments among children aged 0-5 years. The Irish Red Cross has launched a handbook for babysitters and parents. The publication offers advice on basic child care, coping with accidents and first aid. Also available is a comprehensive information pack called Helping you to Care. For a free copy of either publication contact 1850 650 651.
PANIC ATTACKS: A support group for sufferers of panic attacks has been set up. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 7.30 p.m. - 9 p.m. in the Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, 2 Eden Park, Dún Laoghaire. The meetings are facilitated by psychotherapist Aine Tubridy who is the author of When Panic Attacks. Donations of €5 Tel:01 2800084.