We expose a number of untrained operators aiming lasers at the public's body parts.
20 May 2013 |
A lack of regulation has led to a rise in untrained laser and IPL operators.
Which nine foods available from the supermarket could help you live a longer and better quality of life?
30 Apr 2013 |
Filling up your trolley with everyday grocery items such as olive oil, wholegrains and yoghurt could help you reduce your risk of certain diseases.
From acupuncture and herbal remedies to OTC and prescribed medicines, we reveal which headache and migraine treatments actually work.
18 Apr 2013 |
If you’re concerned about overusing painkillers, there are some effective alternatives.
Have you been slugged by the recent rise in premiums? It might be time to review your cover, switch and save.
28 Mar 2013 |
As health insurance premiums go up by 5.6% on average, now’s a good time to check that the amount you’re paying is justified by what you’re getting in return.
Will low-kilojoule sweetener stevia revolutionise the way we flavour our food?
26 Mar 2013 |
Stevia is hailed as a zero-kilojoule natural sweetener that will help reduce the amount of sugar we consume. But just how natural is it?
Unless you take certain steps, advance care directives (ACDs) may not carry much weight. We share some pointers on deciding your own fate.
22 Jan 2013 |
With Australians living longer and often facing a drawn-out decline, being clear about your future healthcare plans is more important than ever.
There are plenty of options beyond the pill.
15 Jan 2013 |
We take a look at the contraceptive options available in Australia, including long-acting reversible methods, hormonal injections, IUD, the pill and emergency contraception.
You might be surprised by the sugary punch packed by some of these fruit-based drinks.
14 Jan 2013 |
With up to 2600kJ in one serving, the hidden sugar in some smoothies and frappés places them in the category of a junk food snack rather than a healthy drink.
Can herbal pills and fruit-based liquids really remove toxins, or is it all just marketing spin?
8 Jan 2013 |
We ask the experts just how well diet detox products work when it comes to removing toxins and getting healthy.
We take a look at the science behind various "enhanced" waters on the market, including hexagonal water and sports waters.
7 Jan 2013 |
The market is awash with "enhanced" waters making claims about their superior chemistry. But do they offer any advantages over normal water?
New European Union regulation lists permitted health claims, bans rest
19 Dec 2012 |
Regulations have come into effect in Europe that will only allow food health claims approved by the European Food Safety Authority.
One step forward or one step back for consumers?
10 Dec 2012 |
New standards for health claims a mixed blessing for consumers.
Pure, natural and healthy or laden with salt, sugar and saturated fat?
20 Nov 2012 |
We look at 200 products with implied health or quality claims and discover there is a fine line between healthy and hoodwinked.
Our health insurance reviews are a prescription for painless health cover.
1 Nov 2012 |
Annual health insurance premiums are set to rise by 5.6% on average from 1 April 2013.
We find out if coconut water is all it's cracked up to be.
21 Aug 2012 |
It's been hailed as 'nature's sports drink', but does coconut water live up to its health claims?
A good thermometer is a must-have for any home with kids.
25 Jul 2012 |
We review 10 digital probe thermometers that are suitable for babies and toddlers, as well as older children and adults.
Food and health ministers reject proposal for independent evaluation of new claims.
23 Jul 2012 |
Food and health ministers in Australia and New Zealand have rejected a proposal by FSANZ for independent evaluation of new health claims in food labelling.
We explain how you can get the right advice for your exercise needs.
23 Jul 2012 |
We take a look at the main types of fitness professionals, and what to look for when choosing one.
Give yourself a health check with these online resources.
22 Jun 2012 |
We've selected online health tests from reputable sources to help determine your current health status and future health risks.
Who's getting it and why?
8 May 2012 |
We look at the different types of diabetes, as well as pre-diabetes, and the latest research into causes and prevention.
A disease has been detected in a US dairy cow.
3 May 2012 |
US authorities have detected BSE - mad cow disease - in a dairy cow in California. CHOICE says local cattle feeding regulations must be maintained in order to prevent a similar occurance in Australia.
Is your diet carcinogenic?
26 Apr 2012 |
Information about foods and drinks that could cause cancer is continually updated. We bring you the latest.
Two thirds of Australian drinkers underestimate what a standard drink is
23 Apr 2012 |
Two thirds of Australian drinkers underestimate the number of standard drinks in a bottle of wine, according to the results of a new poll.
Proposed crackdown on ‘fat free’ claims must extend to all fat content claims.
3 Apr 2012 |
CHOICE wants proposed rules that would restrict ‘fat free’ and ‘% fat free’ claims on food packaging to be extended to cover all claims about fat content.
Governments and stakeholders turn attention to front-of-pack labelling design.
3 Apr 2012 |
CHOICE has met with key industry groups, and government officials to discuss the development of a single front-of-pack food labelling system.
How do you find reliable health and medical information on the internet?
14 Mar 2012 |
We explain how to evaluate the content of health websites and determine whether information is reliable.
What you need to know before joint replacement surgery.
9 Mar 2012 |
Given the recall of faulty hip replacement devices implanted in thousands of patients, we tell you what you need to know before surgery.
We explain the difference between psychiatrists, psychologists and counsellors.
13 Feb 2012 |
Mental health therapists can help people with problems ranging from depression, anxiety or grief to schizophrenia and other psychoses.
Scan your way to healthier food choices.
19 Jan 2012 |
Consumers can now use their iPhones to scan food barcodes and instantly see traffic light information thanks to an app developed by The George Institute and BUPA.
Are you getting enough vitamin D?
18 Jan 2012 |
Vitamin D deficiency has been described as a pandemic. We explain if you're at risk, and what you can do to get enough.
We look at how to meet your new year goals while avoiding the traps.
4 Jan 2012 |
We look at common New Year resolutions such as joining the gym, giving up smoking or saving money.
The results are a mixed bag.
13 Dec 2011 |
Ministers have handed down their decisions on the future of food labelling, and the menu contains mixed results for consumers.
Over 3700 consumers joined the call for traffic light labels.
9 Dec 2011 |
More than 3700 signatures and CHOICE’s open letter were sent to food and health ministers from around Australia.
Over 3700 consumers joined the call for traffic light labels.
9 Dec 2011 |
More than 3700 signatures and CHOICE’s open letter were sent to food and health ministers from around Australia.
A new report finds the front-of-pack labelling system is too confusing for consumers to understand.
28 Nov 2011 |
Research has confirmed CHOICE's long-held belief that Percentage Daily Intake labels are confusing and based on inconsistent serving sizes.
The recall of the product is due to high levels of naturally occurring iodine.
16 Nov 2011 |
Regular consumption of these products may cause health problems in some people including pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Some Systems are giving repeated 'error 2' warning messages when used in conditions of high temperature and/or humidity.
23 Sep 2011 |
Johnson & Johnson Pty Ltd has recalled some its Life Scan One Touch Verio Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems, as some are giving repeated 'error 2' warning messages when used in conditions of high temperature and/or humidity.
The National Heart Foundation is ending its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry.
22 Sep 2011 |
The National Heart Foundation has announced it is scrapping its Tick licensing program in the takeaway food industry, citing its desire to broaden its work across the takeaway and catering sector.
CooperVision Australia has received complaints of temporary hazy or blurry vision and discomfort from wearers.
7 Sep 2011 |
Laboratory tests have found that these symptoms were caused by a small amount of residue on the lenses. In all reported cases the symptoms were temporary and reversed after the contact lenses were removed.
What can we do to boost brain health?
1 Sep 2011 |
Dementia is the single greatest cause of disability in Australians aged 65 years or older. It's predicted that by 2050 it will affect one million Australians.
Wearing some kinds of goggles may increase intraocular pressure
11 Aug 2011 |
Researchers have found that some goggles can cause increased fluid pressure in the eye, which may increase the risk of glaucoma.
Sleep deprivation could be adversely impacting your life in many ways.
11 Aug 2011 |
As Australians adopt busier lifestyles, we’re also becoming more sleep deprived. CHOICE outlines why you may need more zzzzs.
They cost up to twice as much as supermarket products, but are health store hair dyes any healthier?
29 Jul 2011 |
They have a higher price tag, but is there any benefit to buying “natural” or “organic” hair dyes? CHOICE investigates the ingredients.
We clarify the over-the-counter and natural remedies and outline effective strategies for treatment.
21 Jul 2011 |
Pharmacy shelves are stacked with remedies for winter colds, coughs and flu. Which – if any – will work for your particular symptoms?
We explore the risks, myths and gap payments of medical imaging.
7 Jul 2011 |
From radiation risks to gap payments, CHOICE explores answers the questions about imaging technologies, including x-rays and CTs.
Consumers are embracing the benefits of "good" bacteria with open arms and purses.
6 Jul 2011 |
"Good" bacteria, long used as starter cultures for yoghurts and fermented dairy drinks, are now in high consumer demand, particularly probiotics.
Some alternative diagnostic tests aren’t all they’re quacked up to be.
29 Jun 2011 |
Some diagnostic tests offered by natural therapists are unreliable or just plain nonsense. CHOICE investigates some common ones.
Believe it or not, Kraft introduces cheese products that can actually help lower cholesterol levels.
5 Apr 2011 |
One of the main things people with high cholesterol cut down on is cheese. These new Kraft products could be a welcome addition to some fridges.
Be proactive about your New Year's fitness resolution with this round-up of tips and recommended products.
20 Jan 2011 |
We've put together the CHOICE summer guide to help you get the best start to 2011.
One in six Australians will experience an episode of depression at sometime in their lives.
15 Oct 2010 |
Fortunately, a range of effective and affordable treatments is available, ranging from talking therapies to certain drugs, and may be more affordable than you imagine.
Australians are consuming up to 10 times the amount of sodium we need for good health.
11 Oct 2010 |
Australia’s salt habit is costing the nation much more than the in-store price tag. But will binning our salt shakers solve the problem?
Essential for children's development and our ongoing brain, heart and joint health. Are you getting enough?
6 Oct 2010 |
Omega-3s in our diet can prevent cardiovascular disease and may even protect against arthritis, mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
Like to exercise in private rather than in a gym? A treadmill could be for you.
3 Sep 2010 |
We all know we need to exercise, but few of us have the time, or the motivation to fit it into our lives. That's where the home treadmill comes in.
This so-called exercise-assisting “hologram” is nothing more than a pricey placebo.
26 Aug 2010 |
Power Balance claims its products work with, and optimise, your body’s energy field.
Cockroach killers are an effective short-term solution but in the long term, prevention is best.
21 Jul 2010 |
CHOICE tested three types of chemical control: knockdown sprays, surface sprays and baits and traps, to find out which ones are the most effective.
Do you need one and do they work?
7 Jul 2010 |
One in seven Australian adults suffer from some form of high blood pressure. If you’re one of them, monitoring your condition regularly at home with a blood pressure monitor can be useful.
Many people support the idea of organ donation, but their wishes may go unfulfilled unless they take appropriate steps.
15 Jun 2010 |
It's not enough to sign a register or a tick a box to signal your intent, talk to your family about your wishes.
Early testing can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
25 May 2010 |
If you’re aged over 45, it’s time to get your cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk checked. We outline an action plan for cardiovascular health.
We look at the major screening programs for bowel, breast and prostate cancer.
31 Mar 2010 |
To help decide which tests are worth taking, it's helpful to understand the criteria the public health system uses to assess possible screening tests. Many tests detect diseases before your symptoms occur.
Good nutrition messages or just good marketing?
21 Dec 2009 |
Health claims are most likely to be used on highly processed foods rather that the fresh foods we should all be eating more of.
A few CHOICE buys will give you an effective home gym that costs less than $100.
25 Nov 2009 |
Think you need lots of space and money to set up an effective home gym? CHOICE's shopping list of equipment comes in at about $100.
Whether you’re an athlete or just keeping an eye on your health when exercising, what can you expect from a heart rate monitor?
12 Nov 2009 |
Choice tested 19 heart rate monitors for ease of use and performance, priced between $30 and $399.
Green tea has long been prized for its antioxidants, but recent research suggests even short-term storage drastically reduces its health benefits.
2 Jul 2009 |
Just six months in the pantry could be enough to destroy nearly 90% of antioxidants in some tea, according to a recent US study.
A new treatment for varicose veins looks promising but there’s a danger unqualified operators could benefit at the expense of patients.
26 May 2009 |
Varicose veins can be painful, uncomfortable and lead to serious health consequences if left untreated.
CHOICE is campaigning for citizen engagement in healthcare reform
5 May 2009 |
The key problems with the health system is an insufficient focus on prevention and primary care, the inefficient and inequitable allocation of resources and the lack of commitment from government to undertake reform.
Find out how to find a better policy and save.
28 Jan 2009 |
Broadly speaking, you can choose hospital cover and extras/ancillary cover. These are available separately or combined.
Negative publicity about HRT led to a flood of alternatives. Do they work?
20 Jan 2009 |
In 2002, a major American study involving hormone replacement therapy was stopped early because researchers were concerned by increased incidence of breast cancer, heart disease and blood clots in participants.
How to counter the risk of hearing loss but not miss out on entertainment.
3 Dec 2008 |
Excessively loud music or video can damage your hearing.
Complementary medicines make a range of claims about their effectiveness, but these claims are not always backed up with sound evidence.
2 Dec 2008 |
In some cases, complementary medicines can harm consumers’ health. Current regulatory action does not do enough to protect consumers.
Transparency about the quality and safety of the health care system will empower consumers to make better choices.
6 Dec 2007 |
Most people receive excellent care in Australia’s hospitals but as many as 10% of people may suffer harm as a direct result of the care they receive.
We run through the top five numbers and what you should be aiming for as a healthy adult.
28 Nov 2007 |
There are lots of numbers and measurements used to describe health. We explain what they all mean.
Don't let avoidable illness ruin your long-planned holiday.
27 Nov 2007 |
The last thing you need to worry about on a trip is illness. Here's how to keep safe and healthy while you're travelling.
Is fluoride good for your teeth, or a slow poison? We look at the most recent evidence.
23 Feb 2007 |
There’s now solid scientific evidence that fluoride added to drinking water helps to protect your teeth from decay.
Seven ways to make sure you don't pay more than you have to
3 Aug 2006 |
It’s bad enough having a condition that requires you to use the healthcare system, without feeling the pain in your wallet too. Here are seven ways to save yourself some cash, and make the health system work for you.
Is there any evidence to support claims for over-the-counter anti-snoring products?
27 Apr 2006 |
According to the Guiness Book of Records, the loudest snores recorded reached 93 decibels — about the volume of a business engine.
Some "healthy" fast-food options aren't much better than a Big Mac.
3 Jan 2006 |
Three "healthy" options out-Mac a Big Mac when it comes to fat and salt and seven more come close and all 10 are fattier than a KFC Original Fillet Burger.
Been burning the candle at both ends?
5 Oct 2005 |
A week or two on a detox program won’t absolve you from a year of unhealthy eating, smoking or drinking too much alcohol.
Keep your bones strong - calcium is a must have.
28 Apr 2005 |
Up to early adulthood your body is building up the calcium in your bones. As you grow older, gradual calcium loss from your bones is inevitable - but there are things you can do to slow it down.
Do you really need to take one?
6 Jan 2005 |
Research shows that a balanced diet is still the best way to get your vitamins and minerals, and that diets high in whole grains, vegetables and fruit reduce the risk of cancers and other diseases.
It’s a jungle out there and our gym survey discovered plenty of pitfalls for the unwary.
12 Jul 2004 |
Interested in discovering the scope and prevalence of consumer issues with regard to gyms, CHOICE conducted an Australia-wide online survey.