March 2012 News

A new Australian study has revealed that sitting at a desk - or even in front of the television - for extended periods of time may be impacting on our health and wellbeing.

Results of a survey conducted by the University of Sydney - recently published in the Archives of Internal Medicine - concluded that too much time sitting has an effect on lifespan, regardless of your fitness level.

The three-year study found that respondents over the age of 45 who were sedentary for at least 11 hours a day had a 40 per cent increased risk of dying during the study.

New research into chronic disease has revealed that most Australians have at least one preventable risk factor.

A report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) on March 27 has indicated that diet and exercise are two of the most common risk factors.

According to the national agency, over 90 per cent of Australians are failing to consume the recommended amount of vegetables each day - and only half of adults consume enough fruit.

An iconic Sydney hospital catering to patients with private health insurance has launched a new health service for young people dealing with depression and other mental illnesses.

St Vincent's Hospital has opened the door to its Young Adult Mental Health Service unit today (March 27), providing the first private early intervention in-patient facility in Australia.

The new unit features a 20 in-patient bed service for those aged between 16 and 30, as well as extensive day program and after-care treatment.

The Australian Private Hospitals Association (APHA) has launched its annual week of recognition for health facilities servicing those with private health insurance.

Today (March 26) marks the start of Private Hospitals Week - an event that aims to educate the community on the importance of private hospitals and the range of services they offer.

This year is the largest in the event's history, with more than 180 hospitals across the country participating.