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Rishi S. Kotecha MB ChB (Hons) MRCPCH FRACP PhD Co-Head, Leukaemia Translational Research rishi.kotecha@health.wa.gov.au Co-Head, Leukaemia
Preterm birth is increasingly recognised as adversely influencing lifelong lung function. This Series paper on prematurity-associated lung disease reviews studies reporting longitudinal lung function measurements in individuals who were born preterm. Evidence suggests that preterm birth alters lung function trajectories from early life onwards, with implications for future respiratory morbidity. We propose that this population needs rigorous follow up that should include systematic monitoring of lung function across the lifespan, starting in childhood.
Extreme heat exposure is a major global public health threat that is affecting people across the life course, including the pregnancy period. Studies have linked extreme heat with adverse pregnancy and newborn health outcomes globally.
Advertising and marketing by the alcohol industry serve to normalise alcohol use, with exposure to alcohol advertising linked to earlier and riskier drinking among young people. Advertising that portrays alcohol use in and around waterways is of particular concern, with one in five fatal drownings being associated with alcohol.
The ORIGINS Project, a collaboration between The Kids and Joondalup Health Campus, is collecting data and biological samples from 10,000 families over 10 years. Its work is also giving participating families a valuable heads up on health issues.
Strong advocacy efforts have paid off with health and food safety ministers from around Australia and New Zealand finally approving the recommended version of a warning label designed to highlight the potential risks of alcohol during pregnancy.
Ten years of dedicated research investigating the Meningococcal ACWY vaccine paid off 20 times over in 2019, after its inclusion on the National Immunisation Program saw a significant decrease in children being diagnosed with the deadly disease.
Five years of intensive collaboration between researchers, clinicians, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, and government and non-government organisations have finally put the long-fought for goal of ending RHD within reach.
For children with Austin Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it can be hard to enjoy the simple pleasures of art, but the development of an ASD guide is helping to share the wonders of art with all.
Leaders in the not-for-profit, research, philanthropy and business sectors have joined forces to shine a light on the human and economic benefits of early support for Australian children.