The Times Australia
The Times World News

.
The Times Real Estate

.

Help us help your health

  • Written by Fron Jackson-Webb, Deputy Editor and Senior Health Editor

We make hundreds of decisions that affect our health every day – from what we eat and how we move our bodies, to the questions we ask our doctor when our kids are sick, or how we support our ageing parents with dementia or cancer.

Sometimes we make decisions out of habit, or based on what feels right. At other times, it’s after hearing about a friend’s experience, or doing some research online.

But there’s so much contradictory advice in the news, online and particularly on social media. One day a study says coffee is bad for our health, the next week, another says it can help us live longer. So it’s hard to work out whether you should actually cut back, drink more, or worry about something else.

The problem is that science is incremental. An early finding might sound promising, but it takes more studies, with more people, to build a body of evidence. We need experts to help us interpret new findings, put them into context and help us make decisions right for us.

This is why we launched The Conversation 13 years ago (I was one of ten original editors). Back then, the anti-vaccine movement was gathering pace and listicles were starting to be a thing. We launched at a time when other media outlets were shrinking, and while we had funding for three years, none of us was sure if it this type of journalism would take off.

Thankfully it did. Evidence-based journalism is needed now more than ever.

I and the rest of The Conversation’s health editors trawl through academic papers to bring you the latest research and commission experts to put it into context for you. We interrogate government announcements about how taxpayer money is spent, and evaluate policy solutions to improve our collective health. And we commission experts to answer questions that you (and we) have always wondered about, like what happens to our teeth as we age or, as in this morning’s story[1], how best to help people living through cancer treatment.

If you value our journalism, consider donating to The Conversation today[2]. We know the cost of living is biting, but every little bit helps.

References

  1. ^ this morning’s story (theconversation.com)
  2. ^ donating to The Conversation today (donate.theconversation.com)

Read more https://theconversation.com/help-us-help-your-health-230667

The Times Features

From Classic to Contemporary: 5 Timeless Costumes for Any Party

When it comes to dressing up for a costume party, you want to choose something that is not only fun but also memorable. Whether you're attending a Halloween event, a themed gathe...

Action Figures as Art: The Growing Trend of Custom Figures and Modding

Action figures have long been regarded as collectible items, valued by enthusiasts and fans for their connection to popular culture. However, in recent years, a growing trend has...

The Ultimate Guide to Securing Grants for Your Small Business in Australia

Running a small business in Australia comes with both opportunities and challenges. While it can be rewarding, funding your business through the early stages or periods of growth...

Men’s Guide to Styling Suits with Sweaters for the Ultimate Winter Look

Winter brings a unique set of challenges when it comes to maintaining a sharp and stylish wardrobe. While suits are a staple of a well-dressed man’s closet, staying warm during t...

Discover the Charm of a Girl's White Dress

Key Highlights Timeless elegance: White dresses feel pure and have classic charm. They are perfect for many types of events. Versatile styles: You can pick from lace, embroid...

Top Medical Grade Red Light Therapy Devices in Australia

Key Highlights Lumitter™ has advanced red light therapy devices that combine new ideas with wellness. Red light therapy helps lower pain and swelling and boosts skin health. ...

Times Magazine

The Essential Guide to Transforming Office Spaces for Maximum Efficiency

Why Office Fitouts MatterA well-designed office can make all the difference in productivity, employee satisfaction, and client impressions. Businesses of all sizes are investing in updated office spaces to create environments that foster collaborat...

The A/B Testing Revolution: How AI Optimized Landing Pages Without Human Input

A/B testing was always integral to the web-based marketing world. Was there a button that converted better? Marketing could pit one against the other and see which option worked better. This was always through human observation, and over time, as d...

Using Countdown Timers in Email: Do They Really Increase Conversions?

In a world that's always on, where marketers are attempting to entice a subscriber and get them to convert on the same screen with one email, the power of urgency is sometimes the essential element needed. One of the most popular ways to create urg...

Types of Software Consultants

In today's technology-driven world, businesses often seek the expertise of software consultants to navigate complex software needs. There are several types of software consultants, including solution architects, project managers, and user experienc...

CWU Assistive Tech Hub is Changing Lives: Win a Free Rollator Walker This Easter!

🌟 Mobility. Independence. Community. All in One. This Easter, the CWU Assistive Tech Hub is pleased to support the Banyule community by giving away a rollator walker. The giveaway will take place during the Macleod Village Easter Egg Hunt & Ma...

"Eternal Nurture" by Cara Barilla: A Timeless Collection of Wisdom and Healing

Renowned Sydney-born author and educator Cara Barilla has released her latest book, Eternal Nurture, a profound collection of inspirational quotes designed to support mindfulness, emotional healing, and personal growth. With a deep commitment to ...

LayBy Shopping