Norman Swan

1 week ago | abc.net.au | Norman Swan |Preeya Alexander

Scavenger species play a role in cleaning up towns, scavenging on the animal waste that people have thrown away. New research has shown apex scavengers, large and specialised scavengers, are declining because of human behaviour. And it's putting our health at risk. One reason is that more humans and livestock become exposed to carcases. The other is that smaller scavengers, like rodents and feral dogs, come in to fill the gap, carrying their own diseases.

1 week ago | abc.net.au | Tegan Taylor |Norman Swan |Shelby Traynor

There tend to be more bugs around in winter making everyone snotty and uncomfortable. But does this mean that cold weather causes colds? Well no, viruses cause the common cold. But, as Norman and Tegan explain, winter does set the stage for those viruses to have more moments in the spotlight.

2 weeks ago | abc.net.au | Norman Swan |Preeya Alexander |Shelby Traynor

There are concerns people are getting their hands on medicinal cannabis to treat conditions where there's very little evidence of benefit — and the possibility of harm. Also, why weight loss drugs could improve treatment for people with schizophrenia. The full breadth of corporate ownership of radiology clinics is revealed. And what questions need to be asked with IVF in the spotlight, as Monash IVF deals with the fallout from a second bungled embryo transfer.

2 weeks ago | abc.net.au | Norman Swan |Preeya Alexander

For the second time, Monash IVF has transferred the wrong embryo  to a patient. It has led to the resignation of its CEO and prompted calls to tighten industry regulations. It also raises questions about the priorities of for-profit IVF clinics. Also, RFK Jr in the United States has made the unprecedented decision to overhaul the nation's vaccine advisory board, installing members known for peddling misinformation.

2 weeks ago | abc.net.au | Norman Swan |Preeya Alexander

Health regulators are concerned it’s too easy for people to get their hands on medicinal cannabis. Regulators are concerned practitioners are putting profits over patient safety, with some writing more than 100 scripts a day. What does the evidence say about what medicinal cannabis is effective for, and some of the risks associated with using it?