Health Information

What is Spirometry?

spirometry is a medical test used to assess lung function and diagnose various respiratory conditions. It measures the volume and flow of air that a person can inhale and exhale, which provides valuable information about the health and function of the respiratory system. Spirometry is a common diagnostic tool used in various clinical settings, including primary care, pulmonology, and occupational health.

Spirometry is valuable for diagnosing and monitoring various respiratory conditions, such as:

Asthma: It helps assess the severity of asthma and monitor its response to treatment.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Spirometry can diagnose and classify the severity of COPD.
Restrictive Lung Diseases: It can identify conditions that reduce lung volume, like pulmonary fibrosis.
Preoperative Assessment: Spirometry is sometimes performed before surgery to evaluate a patient’s lung function and assess the risk of postoperative complications.
Occupational Health: Spirometry is used to monitor lung function in workers exposed to respiratory hazards in the workplace.

Spirometry results are often compared to predicted values based on age, sex, height, and other factors to determine if there is any abnormality in lung function. Abnormal results may indicate an underlying respiratory problem, and further tests or treatment may be recommended based on the findings.

What is a Skin Check?

Regular skin cancer checks are an important part of maintaining your overall health, especially if you have risk factors such as fair skin, a history of sunburns, family history of skin cancer, or excessive sun exposure.

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Singleton Medical Centre and Skin Clinic has a special interest in skin cancer and skin checks. With many years of experience, we offer comprehensive medical and cosmetic services. Accurate dermatoscopic diagnosis and office-based treatments and surgeries.

Not all skin cancers require surgery. Speak to our doctor about photodynamic therapy, laser, liquid nitrogen and chemical ablation, all available at our clinic.

Larger or more uncomfortable surgeries are performed by Dr Mark Chernoff in hospital with an Anaesthetist providing general anaesthetic or sedation.

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the skin. It is the most common type of cancer and usually develops in the top layer of skin (the epidermis). The primary cause of skin cancer is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, but it can also be related to exposure to artificial UV sources like tanning beds. There are several different types of skin cancer, with the three most common being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

What should I know about skin cancer checks?

Examination: You can perform regular self-examinations of your skin to check for any changes, new moles, or irregularities. Use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror to thoroughly examine your entire body, including the scalp, between your toes, the soles of your feet, and the genital area. Look for any new or changing moles, irregular borders, uneven colour, or any other unusual features.

Professional Examination: It’s a good idea to have a healthcare provider conduct a full-body skin examination annually or as recommended based on your risk factors. They have the expertise to identify potential skin cancer and perform a more thorough examination.

Routine Skin Checks: If you have a history of skin cancer, it’s important to follow a more frequent schedule for skin checks. Your health care professional will advise you on the appropriate frequency.

Sun Protection: Preventing skin cancer is just as important as early detection. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid excessive sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours.

Know Your Risk: Understanding your personal risk factors for skin cancer can help you take appropriate precautions and schedule regular checks. Family history, sun exposure history, and your skin type all play a role in your risk.

Remember that skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early, so don’t delay seeking medical attention if you notice any concerning changes in your skin.

If you have any doubts or concerns about a mole or other skin abnormality, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional at Singleton Medical Centre and Skin Clinic for a thorough evaluation.

What does women’s health refer to?

Women’s health refers to the branch of medicine and healthcare that focuses on the unique health needs and concerns of women. It encompasses a wide range of physical, mental, and social well-being issues that specifically affect women throughout their lives.

It’s important for women to be informed about their specific health needs and to have regular discussions with our healthcare providers at Singleton Medical Centre to address any concerns or questions.

A proactive approach to women’s health can help maintain a high quality of life and prevent or manage health conditions effectively.

Learn more about key aspects of women’s health include:

Reproductive Health: This covers topics related to the female reproductive system, including menstruation, pregnancy, contraception, and menopause.

Maternal Health: Maternal health pertains to the well-being of pregnant women and new mothers. It includes prenatal care, labour and delivery, and postpartum care.

Breast Health: This involves breast cancer screening, breast self-exams, and mammograms to detect and prevent breast cancer.

Bone Health: Women are more susceptible to osteoporosis and bone fractures, so bone health is important. Diet, exercise, and supplements are often part of managing this.

Cardiovascular Health: Heart disease is a leading cause of death for women. Women’s cardiovascular health includes managing risk factors, like high blood pressure and cholesterol, and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Mental Health: Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, affect women more frequently than men.

Sexual and Reproductive Health: This encompasses topics like sexual health education, family planning, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention.

Cancer Screening: Regular screenings, like Pap smears and mammograms, are critical for early detection and prevention of cervical and breast cancer.

Hormone-Related Conditions: Women experience hormone-related conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which require specialised care.

Nutrition and Exercise: A healthy diet and regular physical activity are vital for maintaining overall health, as well as managing conditions like obesity and diabetes.

Aging and Menopause: As women age, they may experience menopause and age-related health concerns. Managing the symptoms of menopause and staying active in later years are important aspects of women’s health.

What does men’s health refer to?

Men’s health refers to the overall well-being and medical condition of men. It encompasses a range of physical, mental, and social aspects that contribute to a man’s overall health and quality of life. This includes factors such as:

Physical Health: Addressing medical conditions, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and managing chronic diseases.

Mental Health: Focusing on emotional well-being, stress management, and addressing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall well-being. Obesity can increase the risk of various health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.

Nutrition: Promoting a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall health and prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Prostate Health: Prostate cancer is a common concern in men. Regular check-ups and discussions with a healthcare provider about prostate health are essential, especially as men age.

Testicular Health: Self-exams and regular check-ups are important for testicular health. Testicular cancer can affect men of all ages.

Lifestyle Factors: Encouraging healthy behaviors such as avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, getting enough sleep, and practicing safe sex.

Preventive Care: Emphasizing regular health check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations to detect and prevent potential health problems.

Fitness and Exercise: Promoting physical activity to improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall fitness.

Social Health: Encouraging positive social connections and relationships as they contribute to mental and emotional well-being.

Cancer Awareness: In addition to prostate and testicular cancer, men should be aware of the risks of other cancers like lung, colorectal, and skin cancer.

It’s important for men to be proactive about their health, seek regular medical check-ups, and adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent and address potential health issues. Regular screenings and early detection can significantly contribute to maintaining good health and preventing the progression of certain diseases.

What does Children’s Health refer to?

Children’s health refers to the overall well-being and physical, mental, and social development of children. It encompasses various aspects, including their physical fitness, nutritional status, emotional well-being, and access to healthcare. Maintaining good children’s health involves providing a safe and supportive environment, proper nutrition, regular medical check-ups, vaccinations, and opportunities for physical activity and mental stimulation.

Key components of children’s health include:

Physical Health: This involves ensuring that children have proper nutrition, access to clean water, adequate sleep, and regular exercise. It also involves addressing any physical health issues or illnesses promptly.

Healthcare: Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals, vaccinations, and timely medical intervention when needed contribute to maintaining children’s health.

Mental and Emotional Health: Supporting children’s mental and emotional well-being is crucial. This includes providing a nurturing and supportive environment, addressing stressors, and recognizing and addressing mental health concerns if they arise.

Safety: Ensuring a safe environment is essential for children’s health. This includes childproofing homes, providing appropriate supervision, and educating children about safety measures.

Education: Access to quality education is vital for overall development. It not only promotes cognitive development but also contributes to emotional and social well-being.

Social Well-being: Building positive relationships, social skills, and a sense of community are important for children’s social development and overall health.

Promoting children’s health involves a collaborative effort among parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, and communities to create an environment that fosters their well-being and helps them reach their full potential.

What is a Health Assessment?

A health assessment encompasses the comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s well-being, considering their physical, psychological, and social functions. This evaluation involves determining whether preventive healthcare measures and educational interventions are advisable for the patient. When focusing on an older individual aged 75 years and above, a health assessment takes on a thorough approach, aiming to systematically identify potential health issues and conditions that may be preventable or responsive to interventions, thereby enhancing health and overall quality of life.

The primary objective of conducting this health assessment for elderly patients is to pinpoint any existing risk factors that may necessitate further health management. Beyond evaluating the patient’s health status, the assessment aims to uncover a wide array of factors influencing their physical, psychological, and social functioning. This holistic approach enables healthcare professionals to tailor interventions and support to address not only immediate health concerns but also to enhance the overall well-being of the individual.

Health Assessment Requirements:

Information collection, including a patient history, undertaking/arranging examinations and investigations as required;
Making an overall assessment of the patient;
Recommending appropriate interventions;
Providing advice and information.
keeping a record of the health assessment and offering the patient a written report with recommendations, and offering the patient’s carer (if appropriate and with the patients consent) a copy of the report or relevant extracts
measurement of the patient’s blood pressure, pulse rate and rhythm
An assessment of the patient’s medication
An assessment of the patient’s continence
An assessment of the patient’s
Immunisation status for influenza, tetanus and pneumococcus
An assessment of the patient’s physical function, including the patient’s activities of daily living, and whether or not the patient has had a fall in the last 3 months
An assessment of the patient’s psychological function, including the patient’s cognition and mood
An assessment of the patient’s social function, including the availability and adequacy of paid and unpaid help, and whether the patient is responsible for caring for another person.