Health Check Magazine Issue 21 September 2021 - December 2021

hea th magazine ISSUE 21 SPRING 2021

The Spring Issue STROKE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ESSENTIAL HEALTH CHECKS FOR WOMEN COULD IT BE ALLERGIES?

Allow yourself the freedom to move with BioCeuticals® Ultra Muscleze® Who needs extra magnesium?

Magnesium is an essential mineral required for human health. Everybody needs a certain amount of magnesium in their diets, but some people might not meet their daily requirements through diet alone.

What does magnesium do?

Magnesium is well known for its role in relieving cramped muscles. But did you know it also: • supports muscle function and relaxation • supports energy levels • supports cardiovascular system health • supports nervous system function

Why BioCeuticals Ultra Muscleze®?

BioCeuticals Ultra Muscleze® is an advanced, readily available magnesium formulation to support muscle function and relaxation, and relieve muscle cramps when dietary intake is inadequate.

• Contains UltraMag®, a proprietary BioCeuticals blend of readily bioavailable magnesium chelates

©BioCeuticals® 2021 ACN 062 851 683 MM00114ART 0621

• Available in a delicious Orange flavour

For more information talk to your health professional or visit www.bioceuticals.com.au Always read the label. Follow the directions for use.

If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

2

CONTENTS H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1 Is it just us, or does the arrival of Spring herald a new sense of hope and optimism for the future? Maybe it’s the increasingly warm days and extended hours of sunshine, or the fact that we’re heading towards the festive end of the year, but Spring has traditionally been a time to take a deep breath and refocus. Spring can often be the most trying season for many allergy-sufferers, and it’s an opportune time to determine whether that reaction could be due to an unknown allergy (Is It Allergies? page 9).

It’s also a great time to get on top of any outstanding health check ups before the busy Summer season, so find out more about Essential Health Checks for Women (page 18). And with Mental Health Month running from 1-31 October, we’ve pulled together some key mental health resources working to destigamatise and improve accessibility for those seeking to know more about mental illness (page 20). To all our readers and customers, we hope you continue to stay safe and well, through this season, and the next.

Blooms The Chemist's Health Check Magazine is produced entirely in-house.

The Health Check Magazine Team Editor-in-Chief Annette Williams, National Communications Manager

4

ASK A PHARMACIST: STROKE

7

PHARMACIST FOCUS

9

18

20

COULD IT BE ALLERGIES?

11

23

12

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

15

NOURISH YOUR SKIN

17

VITAMIN B

Emily Facoory, Communications and Content Coordinator

ESSENTIAL HEALTH CHECKS FOR WOMEN

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

GYM ANXIETY

Chief Writer

WEARING SUNSCREEN ALL YEAR ROUND

24

Chief Designer

30

MOVEMBER MOTIVATION

33

MANAGING MENOPAUSE

PERINATAL MENTAL HEALTH WEEK

26

35

SPRING CLEAN YOUR LIFE WITH MINIMALISM

FIVE YEARS OF UNFORGETTABLE WISHES

29

39

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

Ivan Botic, Graphic Designer

WHAT’S ON IN YOUR BLOOMS THE CHEMIST

Disclaimer: All material included in Health Check magazine is provided as general information and is not intended, nor may it be construed, as medical advice or instruction. Information and opinions expressed are believed to be correct and accurate to the best knowledge and judgement of the authors. Readers should consult their appropriately qualified health care professional prior to taking any action or inaction in relation to the content contained herein.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

3

Ask a Pharmacist STROKE WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 4

by Casey Shannon

IN 2020, 27,428 AUSTRALIANS EXPERIENCED A STROKE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THEIR LIFE. THIS MEANS THAT ONE STROKE OCCURRED EVERY 19 MINUTES. OF THESE 27,428 AUSTRALIANS, 6,535 (OR 24 PERCENT) OF FIRST-EVER STROKES OCCURRED IN PEOPLE AGED 54 YEARS AND YOUNGER.1 HOWEVER, MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF STROKES ARE PREVENTABLE.1 What you need to know about strokes A stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood and oxygen to the brain suddenly becomes blocked or ruptures and begins to bleed. This can lead to part of the brain dying causing sudden impairment to normal bodily functions, disability and even death.2 Strokes can often cause parts of the body to be paralysed depending on the part of the brain that has been affected.

Knowing these signs and seeking immediate medical attention can be life changing. The outcome of a stroke depends on how quickly medical treatment occurs and the type of stoke the person had.4 If you or the person who has had a stroke is transported by an ambulance, you may be able to start treatment immediately and let the hospital know that a stroke patient is on the way in order for them to get medical equipment ready.4 Ways to prevent stroke from happening Strokes are often preventable as people can modify their lifestyle to reduce their risks. Some modifiable risk factors include increasing daily physical activity, cease smoking and reduce alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy weight and eat a well-balanced diet.5 In addition to this, people can work to prevent or manage other health conditions that are contributing risk factors for strokes. Some health conditions that can increase the risk of stroke include: • High blood pressure

The easiest way to remember common signs of a stroke is to remember F.A.S.T

• High cholesterol levels

F – Face drooping: ask the person to smile. Does one side droop?

Unfortunately, there are also several risk factors that are beyond your control which can increase your risk of experiencing a stroke. These include gender, age, ethnicity and family history.

A – Arm weakness: ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S – Speech difficulty: ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred?

T – Time to call 000: if the person shows any of these signs you need to call for urgent medical treatment.

Other common signs of stroke can include: • Loss of balance or coordination • Sudden numbness of the face, arm or leg • Sudden confusion • Trouble understanding others • Sudden issue with seeing out of one or both eyes • Dizziness or difficulty walking Some people experience a mini stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA) which temporarily blocks blood flow to the brain.3 These mini strokes can be a warning sign that a serious stroke may occur later in life. TIA’s generally present with similar symptoms as a stroke, such as numbness, tingling, weakness on one side of the body, vision problems and headaches.

These symptoms generally only last a short amount of time.3 If this happens to you, it is important to seek immediate medical treatment and talk to your doctor about reducing your risk of experiencing a stroke in the future.

• Uncontrolled diabetes

If you are unsure of your risks of experiencing a stroke, talk to your health practitioners and local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacists about reducing your chances of having stroke.

Blooms The Chemist offers a free Stroke Risk Assessment; it takes less than 10 minutes and is an initial step toward stroke risk prevention. Your Pharmacist will take your blood pressure and ask a series of simple lifestyle, familial history, and agerelated questions, to assess your overall risk of stroke.

Should your Pharmacist consider you to be at-risk of stroke, you will be advised to seek prompt medical advice. Written results will be provided to allow you to share this with your doctor.

Remember, every minute counts. The longer blood flow is cut off to the brain, the greater the damage. If you or someone you know experiences a stroke, act F.A.S.T.

Top 10 facts about stroke https://strokefoundation.org.au/About-Stroke/Learn/ facts-and-figures 1

2,5

Stroke https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/stroke

6 Essential Facts About Stroke https://share.upmc.com/2018/06/6-facts-aboutstroke/ 3

4

Know the Facts About Stroke https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts_stroke.htm

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

5

High Protein Shakes Protein Reduces Feelings of Hunger Low Lactose Nutritionally Complete Program† For more information visit www.optifast.com.au † OPTIFAST

VLCD Shakes are part of a Nutritionally Complete Program.

OPTIFAST VLCD is for the dietary management of obesity and must be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

BOOST YOUR BREAKFAST PROTEIN

High in

Loading up on protein at dinner but neglecting protein at breakfast? It’s time to rethink!

Experts recommend spreading your daily protein intake evenly across your main meals to help support muscle health.1

PROTEIN

13.8g per serve^

High in

CALCIUM & VITAMIN D Essential

VITAMINS & MINERALS

Stay strong, stay active and reach your goals – www.sustagen.com.au Reference: 1. Bauer, J et al. JAMDA, (2013);14(8):542-559. ^Average value per serve.

Nutritional supplements can only be of assistance where dietary intake is inadequate. Please seek advice on your individual dietary needs from an Accredited Practising Dietitian or your healthcare professional. SUSTAGEN® Hospital Formula and SUSTAGEN® Hospital Formula Plus Fibre are formulated meal replacements and cannot be used as total diet replacements. Consume as part of a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Pharmacist focus Roy Young BLOOMS THE CHEMIST CASTLE PLAZA How long have you been a Pharmacist with the Blooms The Chemist network?

What community initiatives have you and your team been involved in?

I studied Pharmacy in Aberdeen, Scotland in the 1980s, followed by a 16-year career managing Boots pharmacies across Scotland and Northern England. I moved to Adelaide with my young family in 2005. Since then, I have worked at Castle Plaza in Adelaide and have been with the Blooms The Chemist network since the start of 2021.

Since joining Blooms The Chemist, I have represented the brand at the South Australian Secondary Training Academy, the Port Adelaide Football Club Powerful Futures careers expo, and the store has supported our charity partner, Make-A-Wish Australia, through monthly donations. We’re looking forward to many more new initiatives.

What made you want to become a Pharmacist?

How do you best support your team and customers?

I was always interested in science at school and originally planned to be a civil engineer, however my Careers teacher suggested I consider Pharmacy as I was quite a sociable person. After a visit to the School of Pharmacy in Aberdeen I decided to study Pharmacy as there was a vibrant social scene and I loved the idea of helping people every day.

By being there and listening before taking action or making recommendations. Team support is vital, and you cannot do it remotely. Communication is easier these days and we use WhatsApp to communicate with the team and allow them to ask questions, so any time of the day they can talk to me or our Retail Manager, Deb.

What is the most important thing you’ve learnt as a Pharmacist?

What are four things you couldn’t live without?

I think it has really opened my eyes to how vulnerable people are.

From working in deprived areas in the UK and seeing the breadth of different people here near Castle Plaza, there is a vulnerability in people not knowing anything about their illnesses or how to treat them. Explaining in basic terms how to take medication, dosing aid use, what things to look for, really makes your job feel important and impactful.

How do you like to relax or spend your free time?

Other than spending time with my family, I love listening to music to relax. I collect vinyl and have done since I was a kid, so spending time rummaging through second-hand record stores on my day off is essential. I cannot play any instruments however both my children do, and both are in quite different bands on the local Adelaide music scene and are listed on Spotify. So, there’s quite a bit of going to gigs as well. I also enjoy old SciFi shows particularly Doctor Who and Blake’s 7 and UK crime dramas.

What’s the best thing about your community?

Their loyalty. Our community trusts us and although we have only been a Blooms The Chemist store for a couple of months, the local community supported us through the change and have come with us on the journey. They are excited to see the changes in-store that are coming.

How does your pharmacy give back to your local community?

We support local community events by way of gift baskets and other types of things; but as we are new to the brand, we are excited to get more involved and support the local community.

Family – My wife, Amanda, and children, Hannah and Rory. We are there for each other no matter what happens.

Music – Collecting and listening to music. Whether it’s listening to my daughter play her saxophone, my son strum his bass guitar or listening to a latest album.

Friends – As I said before I am a very sociable person.

Chocolate – Anything chocolate is good for me.

What’s the number one health tip you’ve learnt over the years?

Don’t overdo it. Whatever you are doing, keep doing it in moderation.

Staying healthy does not mean killing yourself on the sports field or in the gym. We see too many injuries by people who should know better.

Do you have a quote to live by?

As my old mum would say “What’s meant for you, won’t go by you.” My life has been one of many new and exciting opportunities which I grasp with both hands and run with. When something offers itself up to you, it’s best to give it a go.

What are you excited about for the future of Blooms The Chemist Castle Plaza?

The upcoming refit and relaunch and being able to promote Blooms The Chemist in South Australia. We are the first store here in this state and hope to be joined soon by many more.

If you could give a shout out to one of your regular customers, who would it be and why?

We have many wonderful local customers that the staff all know by name and know all about them, so it’s difficult to choose. One in particular is a well-loved local customer, Pamela M. She lives very local to Castle Plaza and is officially the world’s best jelly cake maker. We love you, Pam! H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

7

8

COULD IT BE

Allergies?

IF YOU’RE WONDERING IF YOUR SNEEZING FIT AND WATERY EYES COULD BE SIGNS OF SOMETHING MORE THAN A COMMON COLD, UNKNOWN ALLERGIES MAY BE THE ANSWER. ACCORDING TO THE AUSTRALASIAN SOCIETY OF CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY AND ALLERGY, ALLERGIES AFFECT AROUND ONE IN FIVE PEOPLE IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND.1 Allergens are substances that are found in the MOST COMMON ALLERGIES environment that are usually harmless to most • Food allergies are the most common allergies experienced people. When certain people are exposed to these by people across the world, affecting 3.7 million Australians.5 allergens, they can develop an allergic reaction This can include foods such as peanuts, shellfish, eggs, tree which can result in symptoms such as hayfever nuts, wheat and soy products. or allergic rhinitis which affects the nose and the • Fur and skin flakes (also known as dander) from animals such eyes, as well as causing skin rashes and asthma.2 as cats and dogs can also produce an allergic reaction in some People may experience different symptoms across people. Certain proteins found in fur, dander and pet urine can trigger the reaction, causing symptoms such as rashes, various parts of their bodies, including the lungs, sneezing and itchy eyes. chest, nose, eyes, sinuses, throat and stomach.

Symptoms can range from mild to potentially life- • Pollen from plants and grasses can cause a hayfever reaction, leading to symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing threatening which require lifesaving medication. and a runny nose. Hayfever is also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, due to the symptoms appearing only when it is pollen season; this can last for several months and occurs when plants are flowering.6

SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES • Sneezing • Runny

nose

• Watery, • Skin

red and itchy eyes

medications such as penicillin can cause an allergic reaction. Speak to your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist or GP for advice if you buy over-the-counter medication.

rashes

• Swelling

• Venom

• Tightness

of the throat

• Persistent

cough

• Tingling

from insects such as ants, wasps and bees are one of the most common causes of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in Australia.7 Symptoms can include trouble breathing, swelling, vomiting, pain and an all over rash.8

in the mouth

• Chemical

• Wheezing

Some allergies can be so severe that they can trigger a reaction known as anaphylaxis. This is a life-threatening medical emergency and can be fatal if it is not treated immediately. If you are anaphylactic, you should always carry an EpiPen around with you in case of an emergency. An EpiPen contains adrenaline, a medication that can help decrease the body’s allergic reaction as it helps to block the progression of the allergic response. If someone you know experiences an anaphylactic reaction, lay them down flat, administer their EpiPen and call or ask another person to call 000 immediately.3 Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include the symptoms above, as well as: • Swelling • Blue

• Certain

of the mouth and throat

• Having

and losing consciousness

trouble breathing

Depending on the level of reaction, there are various ways to treat allergies; it’s best to discuss any treatments with your GP who can give you a professional diagnosis and proper treatment.

1,2

What is Allergy. https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/about-allergy/what-is-allergy

First Aid for Anaphylaxis. https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/anaphylaxis/first-aid-foranaphylaxis 3

4

Symptoms. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/symptoms/

Top 7 Most Common Allergies. https://southgatemedical.com.au/top-7-mostcommon-allergies/ 5

Pollen Allergies. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ ConditionsAndTreatments/pollen-allergies 6

skin or lips

• Collapsing

substances such as latex and cleaning fluids can also contribute to an allergic reaction. Latex or natural rubber is a common substance used in various commercial products; reactions usually occur after exposure to gloves, balloons and condoms.9

4

Allergic Reactions to Bites and Stings. https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/insectallergy-bites-and-stings/allergic-reactions-to-bites-and-stings 7,8

9

Latex Allergy. https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/other-allergy/latex-allergy

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

9

Incontinence

“I feel

good“

Protection. Every day.

With optimal skin compatibility at pH 5.5, you can count on MoliCare® to support you without irritation or leakage.

10

Gym Anxiety FEELING ANXIOUS ABOUT JOINING THE GYM CAN BE ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES TO GETTING A NEW FITNESS PLAN UNDERWAY. WHETHER YOU’RE EMBARKING ON YOUR VERY FIRST GYM JOURNEY OR GETTING BACK INTO IT AFTER A PROLONGED PERIOD AWAY, TRY THE FOLLOWING TIPS TO INCREASE YOUR CONFIDENCE AND CHALLENGE SOME OF THOSE ANXIOUS THOUGHTS.

FIND YOUR FIT

SCHEDULE IN YOUR WORKOUT

Finding the right gym for you is crucial – it’s probably the most important step, because if you select somewhere that feels comfortable, non-judgemental and welcoming, you’re more likely to continue going after that initial visit. Choosing a gym that offers a range of activities or classes you’re interested in is also important; if you’re excited about trying something new or getting back into Pilates after some time off, that enthusiasm can outweigh any potential anxious feelings about entering a new, unknown space.

If you know ahead of time that 5pm Mondays are for your Boxing class, 12.30pm Tuesdays are for Body Basics, and 4pm Thursdays is when you do Flow Yoga, it helps you feel a little more in control of the situation. You’ll know what to expect from your session and putting it in the diary means you’re already partially psychologically prepared for the day. It also means you’re more likely to finish your workout, as you’ve got that schedule to stick to.

FIND A FRIEND!

• Challenge any anxious thoughts with some key questions. You may be thinking ‘Everyone is looking at me.’ Challenge that thought by asking yourself ‘What evidence do I have that this thought is true?

How likely is it that everyone is actually looking at me?’.

Joining a gym with a friend means you’re already at an advantage; you’ll be less likely to feel intimidated by a new place if you’re heading there with someone you know and trust. Plus, working out with someone else is a great way to stay motivated; you’re unlikely to skip a workout if you’ve already made plans to meet your friend at the gym.

DO YOUR RESEARCH If you’re heading to a new gym and the unfamiliar equipment seems far too intimidating, do a bit of research beforehand. You’ll get to understand the purpose and process of different machines and if you do get stuck, you can always ask a friendly staff member to help you.

FINALLY:

• To start with, consider working out during off-peak times, so there are fewer people around.

• It’s important to remember that becoming comfortable with a new gym is usually only a matter of time. It’s completely natural to initially feel put-off but the more you go to the gym, the more your confidence will grow.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

11

12

The Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease SEPTEMBER IS DEMENTIA AWARENESS MONTH WHILE WORLD ALZHEIMER’S DAY IS HELD ANNUALLY ON 21 SEPTEMBER 2021. OFTEN USED INTERCHANGEABLY, DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH EACH OTHER, BUT THEY ARE ULTIMATELY DIFFERENT CONDITIONS.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is an overarching term that describes a collection of symptoms caused by disorders affecting the brain.1 It can affect an individual’s memory, thinking and reasoning skills, with many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease and Vascular dementia.

Symptoms of dementia can include: • Memory loss • Confusion about time and place • Difficulty concentrating • Forgetting simple words • Changes in behaviour or personality • Having trouble completing everyday tasks Dementia can happen at any age, but most commonly occurs after the age of 65. However, dementia is not considered a ‘normal’ part of ageing, and around 400,000 Australians suffer from the condition.2 Due to the different types of dementia, there can be many causes that contribute to the condition. Damage to brain cells can cause brain impairment and ultimately lead to dementia, with risk factors including age, genetics and family history.

Dementia can be diagnosed by undertaking medical assessment and tests that determine cognitive function and ability. This can include questions about the individual’s medical history, a physical examination, and neurological tests. Cognitive and neuropsychological tests that assess language skills, memory and other abilities related to mental functioning can also be used. Brain scans may also identify changes in the brain’s structure and help to detect problems that may be causing dementia.3

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disease that gradually worsens over time and affects memory function in the brain, is the most common type of dementia.4 Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.5

Symptoms can include: • Difficulty remembering information that they’ve just learnt • Impaired judgement or reasoning • Unpredictable emotions • Taking longer to do everyday tasks • Shortened attention span While Alzheimer’s disease affects up to one in 10 Australians over 65 years of age, and up to three in 10 Australians over 85, it is not a normal part of ageing.6 Alzheimer's disease is thought to be caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells.7 The disease can begin many years before symptoms can appear and over time different areas of the brain start to shrink, with the area that manages memories usually being the first to decline.8 Risk factors that may increase the chance of developing the condition include age, family history, head injuries and cardiovascular disease.

Doctors may use an individual’s medical history along with physical and neurological exams, mental status tests, diagnostic tests, and brain imaging to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.9 Unfortunately, there is no current cure for the symptoms of dementia and specifically Alzheimer’s disease, but there are medicines and treatments that can help with symptoms. To find out more or if you are concerned about a loved one, talk to your or their local GP and for more information about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, visit dementia.org.au.

1

What is Dementia. https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/what-is-dementia

2

Dementia. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/dementia

What Is Dementia? Symptoms, Types, and Diagnosis. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/ what-dementia-symptoms-types-and-diagnosis 3

Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s Disease: What is the Difference? https://www.alz.org/ alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s 4

What is Alzheimer’s Disease? https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-isalzheimers 5

6

Alzheimer’s Disease. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/alzheimers-disease

7,8

Causes. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alzheimers-disease/causes/

How is Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosed? https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/ diagnosis 9

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

13

14

Nourish Your Skin

THESE PRODUCTS MAY HELP SOOTHE THE SKIN AND PROVIDE CALMING RELIEF.

MooGoo Eczema & Psoriasis Cream is a lightweight balm that easily absorbs into the skin and is used for the symptomatic relief of mild eczema, mild dermatitis and mild psoriasis. It’s made with natural oils like sweet almond and olive oil and full of soothing ingredients such as aloe vera and centella asiatica.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

DermaVeen Sensitive Relief Calmexa Moisturiser is enriched with 100% natural colloidal oatmeal and ceramides to help strengthen the protective skin barrier to keep moisture in the skin.

This fast absorbing, nongreasy moisturiser provides intensive and long-lasting hydration to help relieve itchy, dry and mild eczemaprone skin.

For very dry skin, Dermeze Treatment Cream is a rich moisturiser that works by replacing lost moisture and helps nourish your skin. With a less greasy feeling, and easier to spread than a typical moisturising ointment, this unique blend is a good option when intense hydration is required.

Cetaphil Pro Eczema Prone Skin Restoring Body Moisturiser is a creamy, non-greasy moisturiser that provides intensive and longlasting hydration to help relieve itchy, dry skin.

QV Flare Up Bath Oil is a dual action formula that reduces the level of bacteria and helps prevent moisture loss. It also calms irritated skin and reduces roughness and scaling.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.

Simpson E et al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2011; 10(7):744-9.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

15

11 SIZES

For all types of smiles

Better than floss* Recommended by 92% of dental professionals* *Based on a survey conducted March 2018, compiled by Micromex Research.

16

Vitamin B B VITAMINS CAN PLAY A ROLE IN OUR OVERALL HEALTH AND WELLBEING, AFFECTING VARIOUS FUNCTIONS WITHIN OUR BODIES.

Nature’s Own Vitamin B12 1000mcg supports energy levels and cognitive function and assists the metabolism of dietary fats, carbohydrates and protein.

Nature’s Own Vitamin B3 500mg supports skin health, energy levels and relieves tiredness in healthy individuals.

Nature’s Own Super B Complex supports function of the nervous system, maintains heart health and a healthy immune system function.

Nature’s Own Vitamin B1 250mg supports cognitive function including mental concentration, focus and clarity in healthy individuals as well as maintaining heart health and supporting energy levels.

Nature’s Own Activated Methyl B12 1000mcg is an active form of Vitamin B12 directly available as a coenzyme for metabolic reactions.

You can find these at your local Blooms The Chemist.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

17

Essential Health Checks for Women 6-10 SEPTEMBER IS WOMEN’S HEALTH WEEK, AND A GREAT REMINDER THAT YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING SHOULD ALWAYS BE ONE OF YOUR TOP PRIORITIES IN LIFE. READ ON FOR A LIST OF ESSENTIAL HEALTH CHECKS FOR WOMEN. 18

Breast cancer screening

Pre-pregnancy check-up

Regularly self-examining your breasts and booking in screening tests can help to detect breast cancer early. The earlier the detection the more successfully it can be treated. Make sure you are checking for lumps or any changes and visiting a GP within a week of noticing any changes. A mammogram is recommended every two years for those aged over 50, until 74 years, and more regularly if your family has a history of breast cancer.1

For those planning on having a new child, a pre-pregnancy check-up is a good idea. This will assess any health risks like low iron and provide recommendations on supplements and lifestyle factors for a healthy pregnancy. Regular checks throughout a pregnancy will monitor a baby’s development and the mother’s health.9

Cardiovascular health checks Regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks are important as they provide information on the health of our blood vessels and heart. After the age of 18, people should get their blood pressure checked at least every two years.2 For those aged over 45, or who have high blood pressure, it is recommended to get a regular blood test every five years to check cholesterol and blood lipid levels. Blood pressure that is high over a long period of time is one of the main risk factors for heart disease and uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to a heart attack or stroke.3 For people who are at high risk of heart disease, it is recommended to have tests every year or two.4 Visit your local Blooms The Chemist for a blood pressure evaluation or a cholesterol screening test.

Immunisations The influenza vaccine protects against strains of influenza, with a new version each year to protect against the most common strains predicted for that year.5 A yearly flu vaccination is recommended, especially if you are aged 65 years or older, pregnant (particularly if in the last trimester), have a chronic condition such as severe asthma or diabetes or are concerned about getting the flu.6 Blooms The Chemist offers Pharmacistadministered flu vaccinations; visit our website for more information and to book online.

Sleep apnoea tests Sleep apnoea is a chronic and debilitating sleep condition characterised by loud and persistent snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing and choking or gasping for air. Even though sleep apnoea is commonly associated with men, women can be affected by sleep apnoea too. An estimated three million Australians suffer from sleep apnoea, 80 per cent of which don’t know that they have it. An at-home sleep test can determine if you have sleep apnoea; ask your local Blooms The Chemist team member for more information on this common condition and available testing options.

Cervical cancer tests Recent changes to the screening process mean that the Cervical Screening Test has replaced the Pap Smear test, however if it’s your first time taking the new Cervical Screening Test you should book in two years after your last Pap Smear.10 The Cervical Screening Test should be done every five years and detects for the human papillomavirus (HPV) which can cause changes to the cells in the cervix.

It’s extremely important to have the test done regularly if you are 25 to 74 years old, have a cervix and have ever been sexually active. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and it’s imperative that you commit to regular screening tests which can aid in early detection.11

Skin checks The importance of monitoring skin for any changes to freckles, moles or skin blemishes cannot be understated. Having a regular skin examination with your doctor, especially for those at risk of skin cancer is recommended.12

Bowel Cancer checks Australia has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world, but if found early nine out of 10 cases of bowel cancer can be successfully treated.13 A faecal occult blood test (FOBT) is recommended every two years for people aged over 50 through to the age of 74.14

For those who are unsure who to reach out to or where to start with these essential checks, your best port of call is your GP or your local Pharmacist. At Blooms The Chemist, we offer a range of in-store Health Services including flu vaccinations, Blood Pressure Evaluation, Iron Screening, Sleep Apnoea Testing, Stroke Risk Assessments, Cholesterol Screening and Blood Glucose Screening. Visit your local Blooms The Chemist and speak to your pharmacy team for more information.

Am I Eligible for a Mammogram? https://www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au/aboutscreening-mammograms/am-i-eligible-for-a-mammogram 1

Health Checks for Women. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ healthyliving/health-checks-for-women 2,4,6,8,9,12,14

Blood Pressure Evaluation. https://www.bloomsthechemist.com.au/blood-pressureevaluation 3

Blood glucose screening With 1.2 million people in Australia living with diabetes, it’s important to monitor your blood glucose levels if you are at risk.7 It’s recommended to test your blood glucose levels every one to three years.8 Visit your local Blooms The Chemist for more information on blood glucose screening and diabetes monitoring and management.

5

Influenza Flu Vaccine. https://www.bloomsthechemist.com.au/influenza-flu-vaccine

7

Diabetes Monitoring. https://www.bloomsthechemist.com.au/diabetes-monitoring

About the New Test. http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/internet/screening/ publishing.nsf/Content/about-the-new-test 10

National Cervical Screening Program. http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/internet/ screening/publishing.nsf/Content/cervical-screening-1 11

National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/ internet/screening/publishing.nsf/Content/nbcsp-fact-sheet 13

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

19

Mental Health Awareness Month MENTAL HEALTH MONTH RUNS FROM 1 – 31 OCTOBER. THIS IS A YEARLY REMINDER TO ENCOURAGE ALL OF US TO RECOGNISE THE IMPORTANCE OF PRIORITISING OUR MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING. IT’S ALSO AN OPPORTUNITY TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE CHALLENGES FACED BY OTHERS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SEEKING HELP WHEN NEEDED.

Mental Health Resources There are a range of mental health resources available in Australia, helping to destigmatise and reduce the apprehension of seeking help concerning mental illness. Many of these resources focus on the importance of connection and relationships in supporting those of us living with mental illness or experiencing challenges.

20

Lifeline

Gidget Foundation Australia

Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. They are committed to empowering Australians to be suicide-safe through connection, compassion and hope. Lifeline provides opportunities for connection through digital and face-to-face suicide prevention crisis support services, through a network of 40 centres with 10,000 volunteers, including 4,500 Crisis Supporters and 1,000 employees. They offer support services via telephone, text, and online crisis support services, receiving over 1 million contacts a year.

Gidget Foundation Australia exists to support the emotional wellbeing of expectant and new parents to ensure they receive timely, appropriate and specialist care. Gidget Foundation Australia provides support for perinatal depression and anxiety through support services for families suffering emotional distress during pregnancy and early parenting, and education and awareness programs for health professionals and the community.

Programs include Gidget Houses (easily accessible and providing compassionate holistic care for patients and their families) and Gidget Foundation’s Start Talking program, providing telehealth psychological counselling services for expectant and new parents suffering from perinatal depression and anxiety who are currently unable to attend face-to-face sessions.

Visit lifeline.org.au for more information about available services or call 13 11 14 if you wish to speak to a support person.

Beyond Blue Beyond Blue is an organisation that helps to provide support and information regarding mental health to everyone in Australia. They aim to break down the barriers that prevent people from speaking up and reaching out, making sure that mental health is a part of everyday conversations. Beyond Blue helps to promote good mental health across a vast range of population groups working with a variety of academic, government and community services.

Visit beyondblue.org.au for more information.

R U OK? R U OK? is a suicide prevention charity that helps to empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them.

Asking ‘Are you okay?’ and listening to a person’s response can help people struggling with life to feel connected.

Visit gidgetfoundation.org.au for more information.

The Banksia Project The Banksia Project began in November 2015 with a small committee of skilled volunteers who shared a belief that the answer to combatting increasing mental illness and suicide was through preventative care and support. Since then, The Banksia Project has built a community of mates supporting mates through its free 'Growth Room' support groups, which encourage men to open up in a safe, judgement-free environment.

The Banksia Project aims to empower men across Australia to cope with life's ups and downs, live healthier, happier lives and genuinely connect, embrace and support those around them.

Find out more about The Banksia Project via thebanksiaproject. org.au.

There are four tips to help you to get the conversation started:1 • Asking if they are okay in a friendly and relaxed manner • Listening without judgement, don’t interrupt the conversation and don’t judge their experiences or reactions

Mental health and providing appropriate support in our communities is an ongoing challenge, particularly this year with COVID-19 significantly increasing the number of people impacted. In an effort to improve the availability of support for vulnerable members in the community, Blooms The Chemist’s stores have engaged in Mental Health First Aid training, facilitated by independent health consultancy Actevate. In 2020, Blooms The Chemist team members undertook an extensive 660 hours of training, with 110 pharmacy staff nation-wide now skilled in applying Mental Health First Aid, including how to support crisis intervention and manage it within the workplace.

We’ve set a goal to have at least one team member in each pharmacy skilled in supporting members of their local communities struggling with mental health, ensuring we are able to positively impact and support people across Australia.

• Encourage action, ask questions such as “What’s something you can do for yourself right now? Something that’s enjoyable or relaxing?” or “How would you like me to support you?” If they have been feeling down for more than two weeks, then encourage them to seek help from a health professional.

• Check in with them, follow up with a call after a short while to see how they are going. Stay in touch and be there for them as genuine care can make a real difference.

Visit ruok.org.au for more information.

headspace headspace is a mental health support service that helps provide tailored and holistic mental health support to 12 to 25 year olds.

There are over 100 headspace centres across Australia that are designed to provide young people with a safe and supportive environment, so they can seek help on a range of issues.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call Lifeline's 24 hour telephone crisis support line on 13 11 14. If it's an emergency, dial 000.

They also have a National Telehealth Service where young people in regional areas can get access to psychiatrists via video consultations. eheadspace is their national online and phone support service allowing a safe and secure place for people to talk to a professional regardless of their location.

1

How to Ask https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

Visit headspace.org.au for more information on the services that they provide.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

21

22

Wearing Sunscreen All Year Round IF YOU’RE UNAWARE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF SLATHERING ON SUNSCREEN ALL YEAR ROUND, THEN TAKE NOTE, AS YOUR SKIN WILL THANK YOU FOR IT. THE SUN’S UV RAYS CAN TRAVEL THROUGH WINDOW GLASS AND AFFECT THE SKIN. JUST BECAUSE YOU’RE INSIDE OR IT’S AN OVERCAST DAY DOESN’T MEAN YOU SHOULD SKIP YOUR SUNSCREEN APPLICATION. NATIO SUNCARE BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN SPF 50+ is ideal for the whole family, this nourishing

yet non-greasy lotion with broad spectrum protection offers very high SPF 50+ protection from the sun’s harmful rays’. It’s formulated with aloe and vitamin E to support soft and smooth skin.

NATIO SUNCARE MOISTURISING SUN LOTION SPF 50+ is ideal for protecting your skin in the outdoors,

at the beach or swimming. This light and quick to dry lotion with broad spectrum protection offers very high SPF 50+ protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Formulated with aloe and vitamin E, the deeply moisturising lotion also softens and smooths skin as it protects.

SUNSENSE SPORT SPF 50+ provides lasting sun

protection designed for people on the go. It is a highly protective lotion best suited to those enjoying an active, outdoors lifestyle.

SUNSCREEN APPLICATION TIPS

Re-apply at least every 2 hours, and always after sweating, towelling or exercising. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear to further reduce risk. Frequent re-application is required.

Head to your local Blooms The Chemist for a wide range of sunscreen options.

ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

23

Managing Menopause MENOPAUSE CAN BE AN INCREDIBLY CHALLENGING TIME FOR MANY WOMEN. A NATURAL AND INEVITABLE OCCURRENCE, MENOPAUSE, ALSO CALLED ‘THE CHANGE OF LIFE’ AS IT SIGNALS THE END OF A WOMAN’S REPRODUCTIVE PHASE, OFTEN BRINGS A GAMUT OF PHYSICAL AND MENTAL CHANGES, AND HAS PROFOUND EMOTIONAL RAMIFICATIONS.1 HOWEVER, HEALTH PROFESSIONALS HAVE IDENTIFIED PRACTICES FOR BETTER MANAGING MENOPAUSE.

Every year millions of women across the globe experience menopause, the cessation of menstruation.

Menopause occurs when a woman has not menstruated in 12 consecutive months, and the ovaries reduce the production of oestrogen, the female sex hormone.

Usually occurring in women between ages 47 and 55 - with the average age for Australian women being 51 - menopause comprises three stages. The menopause transition or perimenopause are the years leading up to and the year after the final menstrual period.2 Natural menopause is the sudden end to menstruation as confirmed by 12 months of no bleeding.3 Post menopause is the phase beyond one year after the final period and continues for the rest of life.4 Menopause before 40 is rare, occurring in one per cent of women. At the same time, five per cent of women may experience ‘early menopause’, which appears before 45.5 Other than the natural onset, menopause can also occur if the ovaries have been removed surgically (oophorectomy), via a hysterectomy or chemotherapy.6

24

Effects of menopause Like periods, the menopausal experience is different for every woman, but common symptoms include: Vasomotor symptoms (night sweats, hot flashes and flushes) Vasomotor symptoms are a common occurrence during the menopausal transition and consists of extreme sweating, increased heartbeat, a feeling of intense heat radiating within the body, and heightened body temperature. With the potential to cause significant discomfort and frustration, vasomotor symptoms are partly caused by oestrogen depletion.7 Almost 55 per cent of women experience hot flashes, even before their periods become irregular.8 According to an analysis of the Melbourne Women’s Health Project, a study featuring 438 women, women may experience hot flashes for an average of about 5.2 years, and about 25 per cent of women may continue to have them even five years after menopause.9 When these flashes occur at night, they are called night sweats and can vary in severity. Some might find it extremely disturbing, having to change their sheets regularly, while others may find it only a tad uncomfortable.10 Mood disorders and anxiety Oestrogen is instrumental in regulating mood-boosting hormones like serotonin and dopamine (the happy hormone), and reduced levels of oestrogen may adversely impact these, causing mood variations in women.11 Similarly, night sweats and hot flashes lead to disturbed sleep, negatively affecting mood. Studies also indicate a heightened risk of depression - irritability, sadness, feelings of worthlessness - or relapse of depression during the menopausal transition.12 Thoughts of ageing, changes to the body, loss of sexual libido, and external factors like empty nest syndrome triggered by a child’s departure from home, usually coinciding with the onset of menopause, can further aggravate an already fragile emotional state.13 Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and brittle.

Oestrogen plays a vital role in maintaining bone strength, and a reduction in this hormone can lead to bone loss during menopause.14 According to research, a woman might lose up to 10 per cent of bone mass in the first five years after menopause.

Studies also indicate that women above 60 are at a higher risk of at least one fracture due to osteoporosis, particularly in the spine and hips.15

Better Managing Menopause

20-minute walk every day can significantly improve health and mental wellbeing.17 Similarly, strength and resistance training can help reduce the risks of fractures.

Practice mindfulness A study conducted on 1,744 women between the ages of 40 and 65 saw a positive correlation between higher mindfulness and lower menopausal symptoms and stress scores.19 Eastern medicine has for aeons advocated for mindfulness - the act of concentrating on and engaging with the present without being distracted by thoughts of the past or future. By focussing on the now and not attaching judgement to any thoughts that come and go, one can learn to process negative emotions more objectively.

When grappling with hot flashes, night sweats or general anxiety, you can also try practicing mindful breathing. Slow, mindful breathing calms the nervous system and reduces blood pressure, heart rate and levels of stress hormones.

Healthy diet A clean and healthy diet comprising all food groups, including leafy vegetables, lean meats, fruits, proteins, and good carbs, is essential for a fit body and mind. It is no different for menopausal women. A survey of 400 post-menopausal women showed that those who ate more fruits and vegetables were less impacted by menopausal symptoms than those who consumed sweets and fatty foods regularly.21 There are also a range of trusted healthcare professionals available to support you, including your GP, gynaecologist, and Pharmacist.

Menopause. https://ranzcog.edu.au/ranzcog_site/media/ranzcog-media/ women%27s%20health/patient%20information/menopause-pamphlet.pdf?ext=.pdf 1

About Menopause. https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/menopauseinformation/menopause-an-overview 2,3,4

What are the symptoms of menopause. https://www.healthline.com/health/ menopause#symptoms 5

What are the symptoms. https://www.menopause.org.au/health-info/fact-sheets/ menopause-what-are-the-symptoms 6,10

Menopausal Hot Flashes: Mechanisms, Endocrinology, Treatment. https://www.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4612529/ 7

Menopausal Symptoms and Their Management. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC4890704/ 8,9

What You Should Know About Menopause and Mood Swings. https://www.healthline. com/health/menopause-mood-swings#causes 11

Menopause Mood Swings. https://www.hormone.org/diseases-and-conditions/ menopause/menopause-mood-swings 12

Empty-Nest Syndrome: Pathway to “Construction or Destruction.” doi. org/10.23937/2469-5793/1510064 13

Osteoporosis. https://www.menopause.org.au/hp/information-sheets/622osteoporosis 14,15,18

Effect of aerobic training on menopausal symptoms—a randomized controlled trial. https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2012/06000/Effect_of_aerobic_ training_on_menopausal.18.aspx 16

Get Moving Exercise is paramount for good health, releasing endorphins, improving mood, and of course increasing physical fitness and bone density. Moving your body can also have a positive impact during menopause. According to a study, women who did aerobics four times a week for 24 weeks saw a marked decrease in their night sweats, irritability, mood swings and depression.16 If aerobics seems too daunting, then a brisk

Walking for Good Health. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/ walking-for-good-health 17

Mindfulness May Help Improve Menopause Symptoms. https://www.everydayhealth. com/menopause/mindfulness-may-help-improve-symptoms/ 19

Breathing to reduce stress. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/ breathing-to-reduce-stress 20

6 Foods to Avoid During Menopause. https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/ menopause-resource-center/foods-to-avoid/ 21

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

25

26

Spring Clean Your Life With Minimalism A BUZZWORD OF THE PAST FEW YEARS, MINIMALISM PROMISES A LESS CLUTTERED, STRESS-FREE WAY OF LIVING. IT’S ALL ABOUT OWNING LESS AND EMBRACING SIMPLICITY, LIVING A LIFE THAT IS FULL OF INTENTION; WHERE WHAT YOU BUY COMES WITH A PURPOSE AND IS SOMETHING THAT ADDS VALUE TO YOUR LIFE. MINIMALISM IS ABOUT BREAKING UP WITH THE IDEA THAT ACCUMULATING POSSESSIONS IS A MAJOR PART OF A SUCCESSFUL LIFE. TAKE NOTE OF THE BENEFITS AND SEE IF YOU CAN INCORPORATE SEVERAL ASPECTS OF MINIMALISM INTO YOUR OWN LIFE.

Less work for you

Freedom

Having a clear uncluttered living environment has major benefits for a variety of reasons. Not only will your home look beautiful and visually appealing without the mess of too much stuff, but it will also save you time in cleaning up. When your home has fewer possessions, there’s no need to constantly tidy, saving you the time as well as the mental and physical energy that we all know is in short supply.

When you’re content with fewer material possessions, you’re able to live your life with a bit more freedom. You could pack up and move cities more easily than most or you could decide to take a break and travel, storing what you have in a storage facility or with willing family. The more you have to pack the more difficult it will become to move, stifling your sense of freedom.

Saving money

How to incorporate minimalism into your life

One of the major benefits of incorporating a minimalist life is the fact that you will ultimately save more money. There will be no more unnecessary shopping sprees and instead more money for things that truly matter, such as experiences. Put the money you have saved into your travel fund or use it for educational resources. If you think you can’t manage without that new expensive bag, just think in a few years’ time you’ll have forgotten about it and already have donated it to charity.

However, that trip to Fiji that you put the money towards instead, and the memories you made, will stay in your mind forever.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and think that you have to throw out all your worldly possessions to adopt a minimalist lifestyle, don’t stress. There are some very easy and intentional ways for you to incorporate minimalism into your life.

If you find that you have a bookcase full of books that you know you’ll never read, donate them to charity or sell them at local markets. If you want to read something in particular but can’t bear to add to your already-groaning bookshelves, borrow it from your local library instead.

•

Need a new dress for that upcoming wedding? Instead of buying one that you know you’ll never wear again, rent one.

This way your closet won’t be overstuffed, and you’ll also be helping the environment by reducing wastage. You can find clothes to rent at allthedresses.com.au or dresshireau.com.au.

•

Less pressure When you don’t feel the need to buy the newest technology or keep up with the latest fashion trends, there can be a certain sense of relief. Chasing perceived happiness and status through possessions is not a healthy way to create a meaningful life.

Instead, it can add constant pressure and stress in your life that really doesn’t need to be there.

Clearer closet and mind According to a study, clearing out our closets has an impact on our mental clarity and peace of mind.1 It’s a freeing feeling once you’ve sorted through your clothes and either donated or given things away. The fewer things you have, the less you debate over whether you should keep the items, give them away, or what you should wear tomorrow. It can sometimes also be harder to relax when you are surrounded by clutter or mess, as you can constantly focus on what needs to be done to get rid of it.

Adopt the rule that if you haven’t worn or used a particular item by a certain amount of time, say six months, then you have to either donate or throw it away.

•

Avoid unnecessary shopping trips by purchasing everything you need all at once; otherwise, you may be tempted to keep going back and buying more and more things that you know you don’t need.

•

Set a goal and stick to it; if you know you want to save money then make sure that’s always in your mind if there is a time when you’re most tempted to buy.

•

The Relationship Between Mental Health and Cleaning. https://www.verywellmind.com/ how-mental-health-and-cleaning-are-connected-5097496 1

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

27

* E E T N A R A K GU

C A B Y E MON

Always read the label. Follow the directions for use.

If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. *T&Cs apply, see www.demazin.com.au. Open to AU res 18+. Purchase Period: 12:01am AEST 1/8/21 to 11:59pm AEDST 31/12/21. Claim Period: 12:01am AEST 4/8/21 to 11:59pm AEDST 31/1/22 (no sooner than 72hrs after purchase).

Limit 1 claim p/household. Refund amount p/product capped. Retain receipt. Eligible Products: Demazin Allergy and Hayfever Relief Tablets 10s; 30s; 60s; & 80s. Promoter: iNova Pharmaceuticals (Australia) Pty Ltd (ABN 13 617 871 539) of L10/12 Help St, Chatswood, NSW 2067.

28

Set Yourself Up for Success IF YOU’VE BEEN MEANING TO QUIT SMOKING BUT HAVEN’T GOTTEN AROUND TO IT, HERE’S THE SIGN YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR. WE’VE HELPED TO SET YOU UP FOR SUCCESS WITH THESE TIPS THAT MAY HELP YOU KICK THE HABIT FOR GOOD. My QuitBuddy is a free mobile phone app that tracks your progress and provides support to help you quit smoking. You can see how much money you’ve saved, and you can also set personal goals to keep you on track.

There are several programs that may help you on your quit journey, and will provide more information on products including patches, gums, lozenges and sprays. For more resources visit quit.org.au.

NICABATE MINI LOZENGES 1.5MG are pocket-

sized and easy to keep on you at all times, helping to relieve sudden cravings.

STOP SMOKING AID. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. NICABATE CLEAR PATCH 14MG keeps working

for 24 hours to help control your cravings.

They are clear and are a discreet quit smoking solution.

STOP SMOKING AID. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Speak to your local Blooms The Chemist pharmacist for advice, tips and products that may help you quit smoking.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

29

Movember Motivation EVERY MO-BRO & MO-SISTER COUNTS

GROWING EXTRA FACIAL FUZZ MAY LOOK INSIGNIFICANT, BUT THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY OF MOVEMBER PARTICIPANTS ARE CHANGING THE FACE OF MEN’S HEALTH. WHETHER IT’S YOUR FIRST TIME OR YOUR FIFTH ANNIVERSARY AS A MO-BRO OR MO-SISTER, THERE’S NO BETTER TIME TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGE OTHERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY TO DO THE SAME. WITH NOVEMBER JUST AROUND THE CORNER, IT IS TIME TO GET MO-TIVATED.

30

WHAT IS MOVEMBER? You may have noticed during November the number of moustaches in the office or on the men in your life, seem to increase. You’re not imagining it and there is a great reason for this. Every year countless numbers of people grow a mo to raise funds for the Movember Foundation and help increase awareness of key men's health issues.

1. Move For Movember You might already be an avid exercise enthusiast. Or perhaps you have a personal goal to begin exercising regularly and you are looking for that extra motivation. The ‘Move For Movember’ option is for you. The goal is to commit to running or walking 60km over the month. That’s 60 kms for the 60 men we lose each hour, every hour to suicide globally.6 2. Host A Mo-Moment

HOW DID MOVEMBER BEGIN? Movember’s origin story started with two mates sharing a beer at the pub. Since these humble beginnings, the movement has grown from 30 participants in Australia to a global community of over six million across 20 countries.1 Prior to the Movember Foundation’s inception, it would have been hard to believe that bringing the moustache back into fashion could have created such a talking point, which has continued to pave the way to real change.

WHY SUPPORT MOVEMBER? The Movember Foundation funds projects all over the world that work towards improving outcomes for three of the biggest health issues men face: mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. By supporting the movement, you’re helping to create better health outcomes for men and accelerate those positive changes.

When it comes to these three key health risks issues men face, being presented with the facts can be overwhelming, and the statistics highlight the urgency to address these areas. The more awareness created the better chance there is for change, which can ultimately reduce the number of preventable deaths.

1. Mental health and suicide prevention The impact of suicide on families, friends and communities is devastating. Every year over 65,000 Australians make a suicide attempt. The rate of male suicide is extremely high: around 75% of suicides in Australia are by men.2 While suicide affects whole communities, men are less likely to come forward and speak up about their mental health.

2. Prostate cancer Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in Australia and the second most common cancer in men worldwide.3 14% of Australian men over 40 years old have reported that they have been diagnosed with a prostate disease.4 As with most cancers, early detection can be vital.

3. Testicular cancer Testicular cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer, after skin cancer, among young men aged 20–39.5 While statistics around survival of testicular cancer are generally high, the longterm treatment-related side effects can have the potential to severely compromise quality of life. Improving these post-treatment outcomes and reducing any negative effects on everyday life is crucial for these young men’s wellbeing.

Whether in person or virtually, ‘Host A Mo-Ment’ is all about having fun with your friends and family. This option is especially welcome after the amount of time everyone has spent without their usual social supports during various stages of lockdowns across the country. It can be as easy as getting together to do an activity like cooking or painting, or simply having a chat about life. There is no wrong answer here.

3. Mo Your Own Way Just like every moustache is unique, so is the person behind it.

Movember’s ‘Mo Your Own Way’ is exactly what it sounds like – your choice to create any kind of challenge, event or adventure you like, with or without a moustache. If you’ve been looking for a reason to reach a particular goal or just have some fun, there is no better reason than doing it in the name of fundraising for groundbreaking men’s health projects.

WHERE DOES YOUR FUNDRAISING SUPPORT REALLY GO? The Movember Foundation supports men’s mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer initiatives.

Across these focus areas there have been 1,250 men’s health projects funded across the globe.7 In addition to being invested in these vital men’s health initiatives, awareness is increasingly generated, and the running of Movember can continue each year.

In-depth financial information can be found on Movember website and is shared annually.

FEELING MO-TIVATED? SHOW YOUR SUPPORT The Movember website offers downloadable resources to get you started. You can find everything from a moustache photo prop template to guides on how to ask for donations and set up your fundraising page.

For more information on how you can get involved, visit movember.com

Our Story https://au.movember.com/about/history

1

Facts about suicide in Australia https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resourcessupport/suicide-self-harm/facts-about-suicide-in-australia/ 2

Prostate Cancer https://au.movember.com/about/prostate-cancer

3

WHAT IF YOU CAN’T GROW A MO?

4

If you want to support Movember but you can’t grow a mo (or your significant other won’t let you), the Movember Foundation has plenty of other support options you may prefer getting involved in.

5

What is Prostate Cancer https://www.prostate.org.au/awareness/generalinformation/understanding-prostate-cancer/what-is-prostate-cancer/ Testicular Cancer https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/testicular-cancer/ Make A Move https://au.movember.com/get-involved/move

6

Our Financials https://au.movember.com/about/money

7

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

31

UNIQUE HERBAL BLEND Iconic brand with almost 100 years of global heritage.

Comforting penetrating heat: rubbing the balm on the skin at the painful area stimulates the circulation and a warming sensation to provide relief from sore, aching and painful muscles.

Can be used across the body from nasal congestion to relieving muscular aches & pains.

Suitable for young & old: Tiger Balm can be used from the age of 2.

THESE MEDICINES MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU. READ THE LABEL BEFORE PURCHASE. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, TALK TO YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. Distributed by – Australia: Perrigo Australia, 25-29 Delawney Street, Balcatta WA, 6021 Customer Service: 1800 805 546 New Zealand: Orion Laboratories (NZ) Ltd. Manufactured by – Haw Par Healthcare Ltd. Singapore under licence from Haw Par Corporation Ltd. ®Registered trademark. 2106-TIG-160

32

Perinatal Mental Health Week (7-13 November) is a time to raise awareness and collaborate nationally to ensure that expectant and new parents in need know that they are not alone.

Across Australia, 1 in 5 new mothers and 1 in 10 new fathers will experience perinatal depressive, anxiety, trauma or stress-related disorders associated with pregnancy or early parenthood. This equates to over 100,000 new parents nationally each year.

In addition, over 50% of new parents will experience an adjustment disorder.

Tragically, maternal suicide is a leading cause of death amongst expectant and new mothers.

The cost of PNDA to the family, the workplace, and the wider community is significant and poorly recognised. A 2019 PricewaterhouseCoopers analysis, prepared for Gidget Foundation Australia, estimated PNDA is costing Australia $877 million annually.

Gidget Foundation Australia promotes awareness, drives advocacy, educates and delivers services to prevent and treat perinatal mental health issues through early detection and intervention.

With 2020 research revealing 81% of expectant and new parents are feeling increased anxiety due to the pandemic, a number of perinatal organisations are collaborating nationally to drive awareness and education during Perinatal Mental Health Week this 7-13 November.

Collaboration is at the heart of this important week. This year continues to be incredibly challenging for expectant and new parents, so these organisations are united in ensuring expectant and new parents know… “We’re here, we see you”.

Throughout Perinatal Mental Health Week there is a focus on daily themes, designed to spark conversation and shine a light on perinatal mental health.

Day One: Stigma, the myth of the ‘perfect parent’, and the importance of speaking up about mental ill-health and not being judged.

Day Two: COVID-19 and the ongoing impact of the pandemic on the emotional wellbeing of expectant and new parents.

Day Three: LGBTQI will explore different types of family units, same sex conception, IVF, stigma, accessing support and the higher rates of mental ill-health within this community.

Day Four: Cultural diversity and the importance of culturally appropriate support.

Day Five: The role of dads and non-birthing partners, and the importance of recognising and supporting their emotional wellbeing.

Day Six: Regional, rural expectant and new parents.

and

remote

Day Seven: Grief and loss, trauma, infertility, IVF, stillbirth, miscarriage, TFMR. Perinatal Mental Health Week will culminate with a focus on how to access support through the Perinatal Mental Health Week partner organisations, where each organisation shares how they are supporting expectant and new parents through the above areas of perinatal mental health.

Perinatal Mental Health Week Partner Organisations: • Antenatal

and Postnatal Psychology Network Birth Trauma Association • Bears of Hope • Birthing Dads • Centre for Perinatal Psychology • COPE • Australasian

• Dads

Group Foundation Australia • Healthy Male • Jean Hailes for Women’s Health • Karitane • Little Sparklers • Mum Space • PANDA • Parent Infant Research Institute • Peach Tree Perinatal Wellness • Perinatal Wellbeing Centre • Pink Elephants Support Network • Pregnancy, Birth and Baby • Radiance • Sids and Kids SA • SMS 4 dads • St John of God Burwood • Still Aware • Stillbirth Foundation Australia • This Way Up • Tresillian • Tweddle • Gidget

ABOUT GIDGET FOUNDATION AUSTRALIA

Gidget Foundation Australia is a not-forprofit organisation that exists to support the emotional wellbeing of expectant and new parents, to ensure they receive timely, appropriate and specialist care.

Gidget was the nickname of a vibrant young mother who tragically took her own life while experiencing unrecognised postnatal depression. In her honour, her family and friends created Gidget Foundation Australia, which evokes Gidget’s warmth and lively spirit.

Today, the Foundation is supported by passionate individuals, community leaders, government and health professionals. gidgetfoundation.org.au

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

33

Be rewarded for shopping

bloomsthechemist.com.au

1 dollar = 1 point

100 points = $5 voucher

My HealthRewards Become a member today and unlock rewards points, and exclusive offers.

34

Five Years of Unforgettable Wishes As Blooms The Chemist celebrates our 40th birthday in 2021, we’re thrilled to acknowledge the impact our community, stores, and supplier partners have made through their unwavering support of our charity partner, Make-A-Wish Australia. September 2021 marks the five-year anniversary of Blooms The Chemist’s partnership with one of Australia’s most trusted charities. Since 2016, our network of stores, communities right around Australia, and people just like you have raised over $1,000,000. We’ve helped to send kids to the moon, made unicorns fly and ensured Australia’s youngest ever Cricket Captain could don the baggy green.

In the past year alone, Blooms The Chemist network has worked with the Make-A-Wish team on a number of fundraising initiatives.

Light Up for Hannah

Light Up for Hannah

Wish kid Hannah has dreams of attending the Vivid light festival in Sydney, a wish that Make-A-Wish has been working hard to make come true. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, last year that wish had to be postponed. To keep her spirits high, Make-A-Wish, with the support of the Blooms The Chemist network, surprised Hannah with an immersive light display in her very own backyard, bringing a little bit of Vivid to her and her family. Blooms The Chemist team members around Australia shared photos of themselves ‘lighting up’ for Hannah, which were included as part of the light show, with many members of the Blooms The Chemist Casey Central team (and their families) heading down to Hannah’s street to celebrate the spectacular light show.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

35

...Five Years of Unforgettable Wishes

Di and the Karabar team

In the lead up to World Wish Day 2021, the Blooms The Chemist store network raised a further $17,000 through the sale of exclusive keepsake pins inspired by wishes we have helped grant. It was inspirational to see how our stores and customers supported this fundraising initiative, with store teams creating raffles, beautiful product displays, and dressing up for World Wish Day itself.

of the pin drive in the lead up to World Wish Day. When the pins sold out, our lovely customers have continued to donate via MakeA-Wish merchandise and other regular contributions. It is honestly so heart-warming to see the kindness of the Karabar community and others around the country as they rally behind the fundraising for these incredible children.

Blooms The Chemist Karabar’s Retail Manager, Di Dallinger, expressed her gratitude to the local community for their support of the pin drive, seeing the Karabar store sell an average of 45 pins a day throughout April.

“With my daughter Bree being seriously ill for most of her life, I understand firsthand how important and life-changing the work that charities like Make-A-Wish do. They truly acknowledge these families’ hardships and struggles by enabling and providing experiences that will be fondly remembered for a lifetime,” says Di.

“The entire team at Blooms The Chemist Karabar have really made it their personal mission to raise as many funds as possible as part

Blooms The Chemist Essendon joined the brand during Victoria’s second lockdown in 2020. The team were so keen to host their first Make-A-Wish fundraiser and in April 2021, they were finally able to host a COVID-safe Bake A Wish fundraiser outside their store, selling a variety of sweet treats, with many local customers contributing their own baked goods for the fundraiser. The team raised over $900 and had an absolute blast.

“We had such a fabulous day; all the team came together to bake goodies to sell and organise the event”, says Michelle Jarvis, Retail Manager of Blooms The Chemist Essendon. “Many of our wonderful customers also made dishes for us to sell on the day, and we even had a group of dancers drawing a crowd and encouraging people to support our bake sale.”

Blooms The Chemist Essendon team

36

Golf Day 2021

In 2021, we also celebrated our fourth annual Charity Golf Day, bringing together a number of corporate sponsors, ambassadors and local community members to play 19 holes of golf and raise a further $50,000, which will help bring to life the magical wishes of seriously ill children.

“It is such a privilege to hit the green and put out the clubs today to raise much needed funds for Make-A-Wish Australia, who work tirelessly to make the biggest and boldest of dreams a reality for seriously ill children and their families,” said Blooms The Chemist Head of Retail (and Pharmacist) Emmanuel Vavoulas.

With teams hitting the green before dawn, the Blooms The Chemist Charity Golf Day included some fun activities to raise extra funds, such as the Longest Marshmallow Drive and the Nearest To The Pin competitions. Brand ambassador and avid golfer Steve Waugh was also on board to support the work of Make-A-Wish Australia.

Emmanuel and fellow Pharmacist Andrew Yap, of Blooms The Chemist Surry Hills, organised the first ever Blooms The Chemist Charity Golf Day in 2018, eager to create a longstanding fundraising tradition (that also meant they could spend a day on the green whilst supporting a good cause!).

MORE ABOUT MAKE-A-WISH Make-A-Wish Australia is the only registered Australian charity focussing exclusively on wishes. A wish helps a child living with a life-threatening illness replace fear with confidence, sadness with joy, and anxiety with hope. Wishes can give children the strength to keep going and fight their critical illness.

Studies have shown that the wish experience can have a positive effect, with wish kids experiencing less stress, depression and anxiety symptoms, even as they underwent treatment. Health-related quality of life and their perceptions of their own physical limitations can improve.

Wishes can also positively impact families, healthcare workers and communities. Wish kids’ siblings can experience reduced anxiety and fear, and parents can experience an increased sense of empowerment and ability to cope with their child’s illness and situation.

Every time you shop in a Blooms The Chemist store, you are supporting the work of Make-A-Wish Australia. If you’re a My HealthRewards member, you can donate your Rewards points, or if you can spare any further support you can donate to a collection tin in-store, purchase any of our exclusive Make-A-Wish products, or give online at makeawish.org.au/support/ ways-to-donate/donate.

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

37

38

What’s on in your Blooms The Chemist September STROKE RISK ASSESSMENT Stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability.1 Stroke kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer.2 The good news is that more than 80% of strokes can be prevented.3 At Blooms The Chemist, we offer a free and quick Stroke Risk Assessment service. This involves a short list of questions about your age, gender, lifestyle and familial history to assess your risk of developing a stroke over the next five years.

October MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS Almost half of all Australians aged 16 to 85 years, 7.3 million people, will experience mental illness at some point in their life.4 That’s why it’s extremely important that we are helping to spread awareness, so more support can be given towards the prevention of mental illness in Australia.

November MY HEALTHREWARDS Join the My HealthRewards program today and unlock Rewards vouchers, bonus points and exclusive offers. You'll earn points for every dollar spent, plus bonus points when you become a member, log into your online account for the first time, and every time you have an in-store Health Check.* *Visit bloomsthechemist.com.au/my-healthrewards for more information.

Ask your local Blooms The Chemist team for more information about our range of Health Services.

To find your local Blooms The Chemist or shop online, head to bloomsthechemist.com.au

bloomsthechemist.com.au 1,2

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2016. Australia’s Health 2016.

3

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2014. Australia’s Health 2014.

4

Mental health in Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health

H E A LT H C H E C K M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

39

bloomsthechemist.com.au