Healthy 2012 men The Alfred talks about men’s health Men’s Health at every age Young Blokes Health issues in your 20s & 30s The Middle Ages What to watch out for in your 40s & 50s Older Guys Staying healthy in your 60s & beyond Contents Younger Years Trauma...............................................................6 Drug and alcohol use........................................7 Sleep deprivation...............................................9 Skin cancer & Testicular cancer......................10 Sexual health................................................... 11 Stress and anxiety...........................................12 Sedentary lifestyle and nutrition......................13 Middle Years Obesity.............................................................16 Type 2 diabetes...............................................17 High cholesterol...............................................19 Hypertension....................................................20 Sleep apnoea .................................................21 Parkinson’s disease ........................................22 Erectile dysfunction ........................................23 Ladder falls......................................................24 Prostate problems...........................................25 Lung cancer ....................................................26 Bowel cancer...................................................27 Later Years Stroke...............................................................30 Prostate cancer................................................31 Respiratory illness ..........................................32 Depression ......................................................33 Chronic kidney disease...................................34 Failing eyesight................................................35 Osteoporosis....................................................36 Osteoarthritis ...................................................38 Dementia..........................................................39 All Ages Coronary heart disease...................................41 2 *This publication should be read in conjunction with advice provided by your GP or specialist doctor. Foreword Confessions of an ordinary man… just like you. I’ve spent 20 years at The Alfred trying to assist its unending cause and surrounded by the medical expertise that has won it high regard. I’ve heard thousands of times the advice for men – particularly those over 50 – to undertake a simple test for bowel cancer. Did I heed the message? No. Did I rationalise my lack of action? Yes…no symptoms, no bleeding, no lack of energy, running every day, working well, no irregularity. Bad luck! I’ve now had bowel surgery and I’m currently undertaking a course of chemotherapy. So obviously my strong recommendation is that you have a check-up and that you don’t put it off. As we move through life’s journey there are many pitfalls that can test our overall health and wellbeing, but knowing how to take control and make the right choices offers the best chance for a fulfilling future. What you commonly see in your twenties and thirties is often very different to the middle years and to what may be likely to challenge you in later life. Reading on is the first step in ensuring we promote a population of healthy men. Tony Charlton Board Member, The Alfred Foundation 3 Younger Years You guys are in the best possible position to live a lifestyle that can save you from serious health issues down the track. The good news is that your age group does not commonly suffer from diseases or illnesses. But your lifestyle may change that. Maybe you’re feeling stressed, not exercising enough or not eating a healthy diet. Perhaps you’re having unsafe sex, drinking too much alcohol or taking drugs. These factors can all put your life at risk – now and in the future. 4 20–40 YEAR OLDS • Trauma • Alcohol and drug use • Sleep deprivation • Skin cancer and Testicular cancer • Sexual health • Stress and anxiety • Sedentary lifestyle and nutrition 4 5 Younger Years Trauma Injury is the most common cause of death before 40. What you can do: You’re in the prime of your life and you sometimes feel invincible. It’s not surprising that many of you take risks and end up in a hospital emergency department. • Choose a car with maximum safety features, such as airbags Log onto www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au to find your car safety rating Most commonly, young men end up in The Alfred’s Emergency & Trauma Centre with serious – even life-threatening – injuries from car or motorbike crashes, sporting injuries, assaults or impulsive stunts. So often, such injuries are preventable. Injury is the most common cause of death before 40. Car crashes are still the number one cause of trauma we see at The Alfred and the vast majority of people killed in car crashes are male. Alcohol and trauma often go together. Too many beers at the footy, a night of partying and an argument with a stranger can lead to tragedy. • Always buckle up – seatbelts save lives • Don’t drink and drive – the legal alcohol limit is .05 and zero for probationary drivers • Don’t drive if affected by drugs. Your reflexes and decision making can be fatally affected • Observe the speed limit and drive according to conditions. Speed is a major contributor to road crashes • Pull over and rest if you’re tired • Distractions are deadly – don’t use your phone while driving • Always wear a helmet when riding a motorbike or bicycle – head injuries in a crash can be fatal. Protective gear is also a must on your motorbike • Pedestrians should remain alert when crossing roads – don’t listen to music while crossing roads or train tracks • Drive defensively or undertake defensive driver training. Car crashes are still the number one cause of trauma we see at The Alfred. 6 Drug and alcohol use Alcohol is the most widely used social drug in Australia. It makes you feel relaxed because it’s actually a depressant drug. Our liver breaks down most alcohol we drink, but can only do so at a certain rate. If you drink faster than your liver can process the alcohol, it stays in your blood and you get drunk. That alcohol in your blood stream affects your nervous system, reducing muscle co-ordination, memory, judgement and problem-solving abilities. Alcohol also affects your body; over time excessive alcohol use increases your risk of inflammation to the stomach and liver. Alcohol misuse can also contribute to accidents of all types, as well as family breakdowns, depression, violence and chronic anxiety. It can lead to a fatty liver (which may affect liver function), obesity and loss of sex drive. Do you know it’s dangerous to mix alcohol with stimulants such as energy drinks? It can make you unsure exactly how much alcohol you have drunk, and dehydration may be worse with the combined effect of alcohol and caffeine. Remember that a ‘standard drink’ is often less than you realise. A 375ml stubby of full strength beer, for instance, equals 1.4 standard drinks, while an average restaurant 150ml glass of red wine equals 1.6 standard drinks. Amphetamines The use of amphetamines such as methamphetamine, ice and ecstasy, has increased in recent years. These drugs over-stimulate the central nervous system and can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. Marijuana In young men, we are seeing significant lung damage amongst those who have been regular users of marijuana for five years or more. This damage is often missed on standard breathing tests. These patients in their 20s and 30s come into hospital 20 years earlier than cigarette smokers, with an aggressive, different form of emphysema. Symptoms include a productive (or ‘wet’) cough, shortness of breath and weight loss. What you can do: • Drink responsibly – no more than two standard drinks per day and have one or two alcohol free days each week. The label on an alcohol drink container tells you the number of standard drinks in the container • Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after drinking or drug use • Quit smoking. 7 Kaboodle Kitchens / Bunnings Full Page Ad 8 KB_Alfred_Hospital_W145xH210-v5.indd 1 26/07/12 10:23 AM 3 AM Younger Years Sleep deprivation If you are getting less than four hours sleep a night, you are sleep deprived. To perform at your best you actually need eight to nine hours sleep, each night. And yet when you are sleep deprived, you have less ability to judge your performance – you can’t tell just how badly you are affected. Ever since electricity was invented people have been getting less than optimal sleep. Now with the social media revolution, many are finding it even harder to switch off. It only takes a day or two of very little sleep for your health to suffer. Lack of sleep stops your brain from working properly – your judgement is poor, you make mistakes, forget things and your reflexes slow down. Driving when sleep deprived is like driving when drunk. Going without sleep for 24 hours is equivalent to a .08 blood alcohol level. It only takes a day or two of very little sleep for your health to suffer. If you mix bad sleep habits with alcohol and drugs you get a compounding effect. A blood alcohol level of .03 plus sleep deprivation causes you to behave as if you were drunk. To make matters worse, the sleep you do get with alcohol and drugs is poorer quality. Lack of sleep also stops your body from functioning well. When you are sleep deprived your body doesn’t handle glucose efficiently, meaning a sleep-deprived person can be predisposed to diabetes. A twenty five year old who only gets four hours of sleep a night clears glucose from their blood like an 80 year old. Poor sleep is also linked to heart disease and a reduced ability to fight off infection. Loud snoring with fragmented sleep is now recognised as an important cause of high blood pressure. Depression, higher suicide rates and personality changes are all linked to not enough, good quality sleep. The good news is that you can do a lot to improve your sleep, like taking the TV out of the bedroom, avoiding caffeine and nicotine in the evening and having a cut off time for online gaming and social media. Developing a regular sleep pattern and a ritual at bedtime can help your mind and body get into a good sleep rhythm. Sleep deprivation is like an iceberg – you only see the tip – the full danger is often not realised. What you can do: • Sleep in a quiet, cool, dark environment • Attempt to sleep regular hours and sufficiently long enough • Exercise regularly but avoid strenuous activity before bedtime • Treat underlying conditions that might disturb your sleep (such as asthma, arthritis, heartburn). 9 Younger Years Skin cancer You are unlikely to be in hospital with skin cancers during your teens or 20s, but this is often when the damage is done. Sun exposure during childhood and adolescence make an important contribution to the development of melanoma. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia and more than half of Australians will develop some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. It is completely preventable, and treatable if caught early. Signs include new spots and changes in size, shape and colour of existing moles or freckles. Red, raised lesions that last for more than a month are suspicious. What you can do: • Check your skin for any new or changed lumps or spots at the start of every season and let your doctor know of any changes • Be sunsmart: UV levels are highest between 10am and 3pm during summer Some sun is good for your health (for vitamin D) but too much UV can cause sunburn, skin and eye damage and skin cancer • Avoid solariums, which radiate with both UVA and UVB radiation (five times as strong as the midday summer sun) and are known to be dangerous to the skin • Be sunsmart during winter too, when snow skiing or snowboarding, as UV radiation can still be high. Testicular cancer The cancer most likely to affect young men is testicular cancer. Most men are surprised that it typically occurs in the 25-45 age bracket. Fortunately, it is relatively uncommon, with less than 200 cases reported in Victoria each year. It generally has a good outcome, with 95 per cent of men with this cancer cured. Cure rates are better with early diagnosis and treatment, so tell your doctor about any unusual growth or swelling in your testicles. Doctors use an ultrasound to examine any mass in the testes. 10 Two-thirds of cases are cured with surgery alone, but treatment may also include chemotherapy or maybe radiotherapy. What you can do: • Examine your testicles monthly – check for any change in size or shape. Most lumps in the testicles are not cancer but check with your doctor to be sure. Sexual health You might be well informed about how to avoid an unwanted pregnancy, but remember that safe sex is about more than family planning. Condom use is falling, which mean the chances of getting a sexual infection is rising. Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in Australia, affecting both women and men. There are often no symptoms of chlamydia, although men may notice redness at the opening of the penis, stinging or burning when passing urine and a clear discharge from the penis. If not treated, chlamydia may occasionally cause pain and swelling in one or both testicles. As well as possibly leading to infertility in women, chlamydia can affect the fertility of men too. There are very effective treatments available. Until recently, HIV was uncommon in the heterosexual community but we are seeing an increase in this disease amongst men who travel and have sex in countries where HIV is prevalent. What you can do: • Practice safe sex – using a condom is the best way to prevent sexually transmitted infections • If you are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, notify recent sexual partners so they can be tested. Melbourne Sexual Health Centre provides tips and advice on partner notification. Visit www.letthemknow.org.au for details • Have respectful relationships where you are open and honest with each other • Ensure both partners are tested for infections before stopping condom use in a new relationship. Proudly supporting: The Alfred Father’s Day Appeal. Promoting the health and well being of our customers 1300 SCRIPT www.livehealthsmart.com.au 11 Younger Years Stress and anxiety Stress, anxiety and sleep deprivation are common amongst men in their 20s and 30s. Men in this age group are having increased work responsibilities and may be becoming dads for the first time. They may also be the sole income earner in the household. Stress affects the body’s ability to protect against illness, as it directly impacts the immune system. Symptoms of a weakening immune system include headaches, cold sores, skin inflammation (such as eczema) and feelings of anxiety, irritability or fatigue. What you can do: • Listen to your body – if you’re feeling run down, rest and get plenty of sleep • Exercise – the hormones produced from exercise have a positive effect on mood due to increased blood flow. There is an added benefit to your physical health. Yoga, Tai Chi, relaxation exercises and counselling may be useful in managing stress and anxiety • Sleep in a cool, quiet environment and avoid alcohol, caffeine and nicotine and strenuous exercise prior to bedtime • See your GP regularly for check-ups and advice on how to tackle stress before illness takes hold. Stress affects the body’s ability to protect against illness. Cortisol, a hormone produced during stressful times, temporarily suppresses the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to contracting various bugs and possibly worsening conditions such as asthma and cardiovascular disease. It’s common for men to avoid tackling stress head on and instead ‘treat’ it with behaviours that only make things worse – binge drinking or drugs. Stress can lead to high blood pressure and anxiety disorders (such as panic attacks or obsessive behaviours and insomnia), heartburn and premature cardiovascular disease. Stress and anxiety can also lead to depression and social withdrawal. 12 Sedentary lifestyle & nutrition Current trends estimate that 65 per cent of young Australians will be overweight or obese by 2020. Fewer active jobs combined with a trend to stop playing competitive sport in the mid-20s mean many men lapse into a sedentary lifestyle early in life. And that means they don’t have healthy, active habits when health issues arise in the middle years. There is speculation that this may be the first generation not to outlive their parents. A poor diet can lead to obesity, which heightens your risk for a whole host of diseases, including cancers, diabetes and heart disease. Yes, your metabolism may be strong at 20 and your body might not show the effect of poor diet, but this WILL change in time. The food and drink you consume doesn’t just affect weight but also your fitness, stamina and long-term health. If you wouldn’t put poor quality petrol in your car why would you give your one and only body a poor diet? There is speculation that this may be the first generation not to outlive their parents. What you can do: • Establish healthy eating habits now – eat two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables daily, along with plenty of fibre • Limit sugars, including soft drinks (as most contain 10-20 grams of sugar) and foods high in fat • Have your cholesterol checked annually especially if you have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol • Drink plenty of water and limit your caffeine and energy drink intake Both can increase the heart rate as well as cause side effects like insomnia, anxiety, headaches and high blood pressure • Introduce exercise into your weekly routine. Health professionals recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days. 13 Middle Years You may be shocked to think of yourself as being middle-aged. Isn’t 40 the new 30? Realistically, if you look at life expectancy for men, you’re about halfway through your life. But these can be your best years. You may notice that you start to slow down a little and may have your first experience with ill health – or realise you can’t take good health for granted anymore. 14 14 40 –60 YEAR OLDS • Obesity • Type 2 diabetes • High cholesterol • Hypertension • Sleep apnoea • Parkinson’s disease • Erectile dysfunction • Ladder falls • Prostate problems • Lung cancer • Bowel cancer 15 Middle Years Obesity Australia ranks high on worldwide obesity rates. A man whose waist measures more than 94cm or has How is it diagnosed? a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30 is To diagnose headfigures and neck cancers, obese. Latest reveal thatyour one doctor would take a detailed history, carry in four adults and one in 12 children out aobese. physicalItexamination, examining are is telling that one inyour four mouth and throat and feeling for lumps in Victorians sit for at least eight hours the neck, lips, gums and cheeks. of the day. Tests may include endoscopy (a thin tube inserted through the nose or mouth to examine the affected area) or scans. You would be referred to a doctor specialising in these cancers. Obesity comes with a host of health problems – it is linked to cardiovascular disease, erectile dysfunction and is the number one cause of type 2 diabetes. What I do? Extracan weight also puts pressure on the lungs, the ability breathe, particularlyin when • impairing Quit smoking andtoavoid over-indulge horizontal asleep. and respiratory alcohol – or both are Snoring risk factors for head failure are in obese people. andcommon neck cancers. • What Avoid other risk factors, you can do: including prolonged sun exposure and certain • MeasureyourBodyMassIndex(BMI). industrial exposures, such as hard wood While it doesn’t distinguish between fat mass dust inhalation. Latest figures reveal that one in four adults and one in 12 children are obese A biopsy of tissue would usually be taken and examined under a microscope in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis. and lean mass, it can be a useful guide. A healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9, overweight is between 25-29.9 and 30 and above indicates obesity • Improveyourdiet.Eatplentyoffibreand a variety of fruits and vegetables, especially brightly coloured vegetables which offer the mostprotectivehealthbenefits • Avoidfoodshighinfat,sugarandsaltand processed meats. If you are overweight you have an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, heartburn and cancers • Exerciseforatleast30minutesfivedaysaweek • Measureyourselftoassessyourriskofobesity. Men should have a waist circumference no larger than 94cm and a neck circumference (i.e. shirt collar size) of 45cm or less. Proud supporters of The Alfred Fathers’ Day Appeal Alf’s Café Shop 2-3 The Alfred Hospital, 23-81 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004 16 Ph: 03 9076 8245 www.alfscafe.com.au 25 Type 2 diabetes Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease marked by high levels of glucose in the blood. It is caused by inadequate levels of insulin or insulin that doesn’t work effectively in the body. It is now occuring more frequently in younger and younger people. As Australians continue to become more overweight and live sedentary lives the incidence of type 2 diabetes is dramatically increasing. It is now occuring more frequently in younger and younger people. Often people don’t have any symptoms and remain undiagnosed for a long time. Complications may be prevented if diagnosis can occur earlier. What you can do: • Exerciseregularly–30minutesofmoderate exercise on most, if not all, days • Keepbloodpressureandcholesterollow • Sticktoalowfatdietandwatchyourportions While type 1 diabetes occurs in children or young adults and always requires insulin treatment, type 2 diabetes is the most common form and sometimes requires insulin treatment. Type 2 diabetes, occuring mostly in people over 40, is linked to obesity and is more common in men. If left untreated, diabetes can affect a number of organs – resulting in heart disease, stroke, renal failure, nerve damage, amputations and blindness. Paint like a Pro • Don’tsmoke • Measureyourwaisttoassessyourrisk. Obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes – men with a waist circumference of 94cm or more are at risk • BescreenedfordiabetesifyouareAboriginal, Torres Straight Islander or Polynesian and over 30, or if you have a family history or are overweight. WAGNER. PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE ALFRED HOSPITAL FATHERS’ DAY APPEAL. www.wagnerspraytech.com.au 17 Middle Years High cholesterol Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood. For many men, high blood cholesterol begins in their 20s. Risk increases with age and cholesterol naturally rises as you get older. High cholesterol puts you at risk of stroke and heart attacks. Losing even 10 per cent of your body weight can help to decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels. A total cholesterol level of 5.5 or more is considered high. It is the build-up of fats, cholesterol and other substances in the inner lining of the arteries of the heart that leads to cardiovascular disease. Blood vessel linings are usually smooth and durable but if cholesterol levels are too high, it can lead to artery-clogging plaque that can bring on heart attacks, angina or stroke. Men should know their cholesterol and eat accordingly by the time they reach middle age. Often high cholesterol runs in families and you may need medication to keep it under control. But you can make a difference with a good diet, regular activity and maintaining a healthy weight. Losing even 10 per cent of your body weight can help to decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels. What you can do: • Ifyouareover50,haveyourcholesterolchecked. If it is high, change your diet and check cholesterol levels regularly • Don’tsmoke • Exerciseregularly–frequentexercisecanboost the good cholesterol (HDL) • Eatplentyoffruitandvegetablesandavoidfoods high in saturated fats, processed foods and limit foods high in carbohydrates – which in turn should help you maintain a healthy weight • Limitalcoholintake • VisityourGPregularlytoensureallknown risk factors for cardiovascular disease are well controlled. For many men, high blood cholesterol begins in their 20s. 19 Middle Years Hypertension High blood pressure (or hypertension) is one of the first warning signs of ill health, as well as a major risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Hypertension is a common disorder and affects about one in seven adults in Australia. It becomes more common with age. When you have high blood pressure, blood is pumping with more force than normal. This is normal when you are exercising but when your blood pressure is high when you are at rest, it means the heart is over-worked. The extra pressure damages the arteries, leading to premature blockage with heart attack, stroke or poor blood supply to the legs. Your blood pressure changes all the time, depending on your circumstances. Optimal blood pressure when at rest is 120/80 or lower. Hypertension is a common disorder and affects about one in seven adults in Australia. What you can do: • Don’t smoke – smoking causes an immediate increase in blood pressure and heart rate after just one cigarette • Have an active lifestyle – exercise regularly and keep your weight in a healthy range – men should have a waist measurement of less than 94cm • Aim for a stress-free life as stress has a direct, harmful effect on blood pressure – practice relaxation techniques • Eat less salt and fat • Have your blood pressure checked regularly, at least annually if it’s high, as there are often no symptoms for hypertension • Drink alcohol in moderation - two standard drinks per day for men and have at least two alcohol-free days each week. Labels tell how many standard drinks are within the bottle or can. 20 Sleep apnoea Sleep apnoea can be a serious condition, which most typically affects men in their middle years. This sleep disorder is quite common, affecting about one in four men over 30. In adults the disorder is three times more common in men than women, though often is undiagnosed. It occurs when the walls of the throat come together during sleep, blocking off the upper airway. Breathing stops – from a few seconds and up to one minute – until the brain registers a drop in oxygen levels and then the sleeper snorts or gasps and drifts back to sleep, often not even aware of the disturbance to their breathing. This pattern can be repeated hundreds of times each night. This disruption to sleep can lead to excessive tiredness during the day, poor concentration, irritability and mood changes. It can also cause reduced libido, impotence and a much higher risk of having motor vehicle accidents. Those with significant sleep apnoea have an increased risk of high blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Loud snoring can indicate sleep apnoea. The impaired airflow creates extra noise and a drop in the body’s oxygen stores. Research has shown that sleep apnoea is linked with heart failure. See your GP if you snore most nights, if it’s loud enough to disturb people in other rooms, occurs in all sleeping positions, is associated with periods of not breathing, makes you excessively sleepy during the day, and if you also have high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. What you can do: • Watch your weight. Obesity, especially extra weight in the neck and torso, is one of the common causes of sleep apnoea. Weight loss can reduce the severity of snoring and sleep apnoea • Reduce your alcohol intake – alcohol hampers the brain’s reaction to sleep disordered breathing • Don’t smoke (smoking increases the chances of developing sleep apnoea) • Avoid taking sleeping tablets and sedatives, which tend to exacerbate sleep apnoea • See your GP if you’re experiencing persistent snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. Treatment may include mouthguards, nasal ventilation or surgical correction of an upper airway obstruction. This sleep disorder is quite common, affecting about one in four men over 30. 21 Middle Years Parkinson’s disease Some people think Parkinson’s disease only affects older people, but most are affected from around 50 to 60 years, with one-fifth diagnosed between 30 and 50 years. About four people per 1000 have Parkinson’s and this incidence increases to one in 100 for those over 60 years. It is a progressive, degenerative neurological condition that affects the control of body movements. Ithasnoknowncauseandisdifficulttodiagnose. While symptoms vary greatly, they generally include tremors (shaking), muscle stiffness, stooped posture andashufflinggait. Tremors usually start in one hand, spread to the leg and then cross to the other side of the body and are most noticeable when at rest or when tired or stressed. The disease progresses very slowly over decades. What you can do: • SeeyourGPifyouareexperiencingany symptoms such as trembling • KnowthatthesymptomsofParkinson’s disease can be managed with medication, physical therapies and even surgery •Seeaspecialistregularlytomonitortreatments. Home is where the heart is. Thomson Real Estate is proud to support The Alfred. By supporting the hospital through its Father’s Day Appeal we’re ensuring everyone gets home sooner. Visit tre.com.au 22 Erectile dysfunction You might feel embarrassed about it, but it’s actually common for men to have significant erectile problems as they age. Mild erectile dysfunction is experienced by four in every 10 men after the age of 40 and complete loss of erections are noted by about 15 percent of men over 60. Many cases of persistent erectile dysfunction are caused by a physical illness and can be an early warning sign for diabetes or heart disease. Many cases of persistent erectile dysfunction are caused by a physical illness and can be an early warning sign for diabetes or heart disease. Surgical treatment of prostate cancer can lead to erectile dysfunction and reduced libido, but benign prostate enlargement doesn’t usually affect erections. Only 10 per cent of erectile dysfunction cases are caused by psychological problems. Problems such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure and depression, can also lead to erectile dysfunction. A poor diet is also a major contributor as are alcohol and a lack of sleep. We’ve all seen the ads, so know there is a big industry out there selling testosterone replacement, but erectile dysfunction is not usually due to testosteronedeficiency. Testosterone measurements may be lower in these men and may contribute to reduced libido. But unfortunately taking extra testosterone usually doesn’t help and can be risky. Effective treatment for erectile dysfunction can be obtained through your GP, although it may not suit all. Depression, alcohol and a lack of sleep are other contributing factors. What you can do: • SeeyourGPforacheckupforinvestigation into any underlying medical causes – your doctor may check your cholesterol, blood pressure and test for diabetes • Exerciseregularlyandeatahealthydiet • Bewaryofthemany‘quickfix’treatments advertised. 23 Middle Years Ladder falls D.I.Y. jobs at home can often end up with men – commonly in the 40-60 age group – coming into the Emergency Department. While we see many middle-aged men with injuries from car accidents, cycling incidents and from using various household tools, the most serious injury comes from men falling off ladders. Falls account for about one-third of all hospitalised injury cases. Falls account for about one-third of all hospitalised injury cases and ladder falls have recently increased. According to a recent Alfred study, eight per cent of admissions relating to a ladder fall result in death and 88.5 per cent of these admissions are from ladder use at home. What you can do: • Avoid climbing a ladder if it’s not part of your profession • Avoid over-reaching, carrying excessive loads, or shifting the ladder while on it. Do not climb ladders while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Wear sensible clothing and footwear and avoid wet and windy conditions • Use ladders with wide angled rungs or non-slip rubber footings, or special hand grip railings • Secure both ends of your ladder or have somebody else brace the ladder • Allow only one person on a ladder at once • Ensure you always have at least both feet and one hand on the ladder • Never step beyond the second highest ladder rung. The ladder should extend one metre above the top support. If you’re not trained how to use a ladder (for example, as part of your job), it’s best to avoid using them completely. Remember: our reflexes and balance deteriorate as we age. BEWARE 24 A tram weighs as much as 30 rhinos yarratrams.com.au Prostate problems From the age of 50, it’s common for men to have problems with their prostate. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland that contributes to the process of making seminal fluid. Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include having a poor urine stream or a need to frequently pass urine. Several medications can treat this condition. If an operation is required, surgeons simply remove the centre of the prostate. Enlarged prostate What you can do: Having an enlarged prostate is a common urological problem. When it is enlarged, the gland squeezes the urethra, causing problems in urinating. If untreated, it can lead to urinary infections, bladder and kidney damage. It is not known why this happens, but it seems to be a common part of ageing for men. • See a doctor if you have any urination problems, regardless of your age. Once symptoms develop, they remain persistent. Without medical attention, the condition may worsen. Prostatitis Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate gland, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It can also occur when the muscles of the pelvis or bladder don’t work properly or when there is a bladder blockage, causing infection or inflammation. It can be very painful and can affect men at any age. It is thought that one in every six men experience this disorder at some stage. What you can do: • See a urologist • To ease the pain, take hot baths • Avoid alcohol, spicy foods and caffeine • Use a cushion when sitting for long periods of time • Have safe sex – unprotected sexual intercourse can let bacteria into the urethra which can move up to the prostate • Pelvic floor muscle relaxation techniques may be helpful for symptom relief. 25 Middle Years Lung cancer The more and longer you smoke, the higher the risk of lung cancer. The disease is commonly seen in 45 to 70 year olds and cigarette smoking causes 90 per cent of lung cancers. Symptoms of lung cancer include a cough that won’t go away, a change in a chronic cough, blood insputum(fluidcoughedupfromthelungs)and breathlessness. There have been major advancements in treatments in recent years and improved survival rates with the use of chemotherapy and targeted radiotherapy. What you can do: • Quitsmoking • Ifyouareathighriskorhaveastrongfamily history, have regular check-ups • Eatahealthydiet.Adietrichinfruitand vegetables may offer a protective effect against lung and other cancers • Keepfit!Exerciseislikesuperannuation especially for heart disease and cancers. If you are unlucky enough to either develop heart disease or cancer, your cumulative exercise history will improve your chance of survival. Let the Champion loose! September is your month to swim and get active for summer, for fun and for life. Choose your challenge and register online. It’s just waiting to get out! a program supporting 26 /swimtember for fun. for life. e ! ! e. Bowel cancer Your risk of colorectal cancer, which includes bowel, colon and rectum cancers, rapidly increases after the age of 50. Over a lifetime, one in 20 men in Australia will develop bowel cancer. What you can do: Most bowel cancers develop from tiny growths called polyps, although not all polyps become cancerous. Cancer can narrow and block the bowel and cause bleeding. • Haveacolonoscopyeveryfiveyearsifyou have a strong family history of bowel cancer It is one of the most curable cancers, if detected early. Over a lifetime, one in 20 men in Australia will develop bowel cancer. The most common symptoms are blood in faeces, very dark faeces (if blood has been sitting in the bowel) or a change in the bowels, such as diarrhoea or constipation, fatigue, weight loss and cramping. • Haveafaecaloccultbloodtesteverytwo years after you turn 50. You can buy this at the chemist and do the test at home. If you have a family history of bowel cancer, historyofpolypsorinflammatoryboweldisease, have this test annually • Eatwell–apoordietandobesityincreasesthe risk of cancer. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables andfibrewhilelimitingfatsandavoiding processed meats • Exerciseregularlytoreduceyourrisksof developing bowel cancer. The more exercise the better, but do at least three 30 minute exercise sessions weekly • Don’tsmokeordrinkexcessively–smoking and alcohol are both cancer triggers • Don’tavoidinvestigatingsymptoms–see your doctor if you have blood in faeces, very dark faeces or a change in the bowels such as diarrhoea, constipation or cramping. However, in its early stages, bowel cancer often has no symptoms. A poor diet and obesity increases the risk of cancer. 27 Later Years These days, with people living and working longer, being in your 60s, 70s or even 80s is no longer the ‘old’ it was once thought. Many still lead active lives at this age, despite a few more wrinkles. Our trend of living longer shows that this generation did all the right things in looking after themselves, including walking instead of driving everywhere. Like anything else worth having, you can never take your eye off the ball when it comes to good health. 28 28 60+ YEAR OLDS • Stroke • Prostate cancer • Respiratory illness • Depression • Chronic kidney disease • Failing eyesight • Osteoporosis • Osteoarthritis • Dementia 29 Later Years Stroke Unfortunately, your risk of having a stroke increases with age. In Australia, there is about one stroke every 12 minutes, mainly in men over 60 years. Stroke is a vascular disease that can lead to severe, long-term disability. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts, depriving the brain of blood and oxygen. Stroke can cause paralysis and can affect vision, language, balance and thinking. Sometimes there are no warning signs, as stroke can be a sudden event. In Australia, there is about one stroke every 12 minutes, mainly in men over 60 years. What you can do: Tohelppreventstroke: • Manageyourbloodpressure–menover65years with high blood pressure are most at risk, as are those with heart disease and high cholesterol The FAST test is an easy way to recognise and remember the key signs of stroke, and what to do when they occur. • Don’tsmoke It involves three simple questions – and a key action. • Face–checktheface–hasthemouthdrooped? • Arms–canbotharmsbelifted? • Speech–isthespeechslurred?Dothey understand you? • Time–iscritical.Ifyouseeanyofthesesigns call 000 immediately. • Eatahealthydiet. melbourne internAtion internAtionAl A Ation All Comedy Festiv FestivA FestivAll And AustrAliA’s Comedy Community present , adrian!” O y “ iser For A Comedy su ndrA probAbly never HeArd perstAr u F oF … A u’ve yo 7.30pM,, Wednesday 26 septeMber 2012 regent theatre, MelbOurne tiCKets From $50 • booKK no W At A noW ComedyFestivA estiv l.Com.Au or tiCKetmAster 1300 660 013 estivA ComedyFestivAl.Com.Au • Exerciseregularly–theguidelinesrecommend 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise on most, if not all, days Featuring: CArl bArron Wil Anderson /// CArl Kitty FlAnAgAn /// greg Fleet JeFF green tom gleeson /// JeFF dA HugHes HugHes Justin HAmilton /// dAve JuditH luCy /// briAn nAnKervis dA tHornton /// FrAnK FrAnKK Woodley dAve and MOre! Also supporting The Alfred Father’s Day Appeal fathersdayappeal.org.au Prostate cancer Most men diagnosed with prostate cancer are over 60 years old. However, men are increasingly being diagnosed in their 50s and even 40s. About 4000 men are diagnosed with this disease in Victoria each year. Two-thirds of these men will not die from this cancer, as it will not progress enough to cause harm within their lifetime. However, prostate cancer can be lethal and presents a challenge to doctors to find and treat those prostate cancers that are deadly. The prostate itself is a walnut sized gland that sits below the bladder. It secretes fluid to nourish ejaculated sperm. Most men with early prostate cancer have no symptoms, but can sometimes need to urinate often, or feel they have not completely emptied their bladder. What you can do: • Keep your weight down and reduce your intake of saturated fats • Eat at least five serves of vegetables each day. Antioxidants in vegetables may lower your risk of prostate cancer, especially cooked tomatoes and broccoli, as well as reducing the incidence of colon cancer and heart disease • Consider an annual prostate check. While population screening is not recommended for prostate cancer, men over 40 are advised to discuss their prostate health with their GP and consider testing Men with a family history of the disease are especially encouraged to be tested. Testing includes a digital rectal exam and a blood test for PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen). Australian made. Australian grown. Proudly supporting THE ALFRED FATHER’S DAY APPEAL www.cyclone.com.au 31 Later Years Respiratory illness Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a serious, progressive, disabling respiratory disease attributed to long-term smoking. It results in a destruction of lung tissue and narrowing of the air passages that obstruct oxygen intake, leading to chronic shortness of breath. You may know it as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. What you can do: • Stop smoking – 95 per cent of patients with COPD have this disease after years of smoking • Exercise regularly – there are physical and psychological benefits, plus pulmonary rehabilitation works to reverse any muscle loss • See your GP for an assessment of respiratory function • Get vaccinated - flu and pneumonia can worsen the symptoms of COPD. Each day, 1000 people are in hospital as a result of COPD. While a serious illness, it can be treated well with medication, ventilation and rehabilitation. Cause that’s what GOOD GUYS do... Proud Supporter of the Alfred Health Father’s Day Appeal Simon Burgess Brighton 681 Nepean Highway 8591 1100 SIMON BURGESS BRIGHTON Depression Everybody feels sad and anxious sometimes. But if you can’t shake it off, you might be depressed. More than 1.3 million Australians are treated for depression each year and that figure is growing, as people live longer. It’s important to remember that depression is a real medical condition. It is a very common, serious illness that at its most extreme can lead to suicide, particularly in men aged between 65 and 75 years. What you can do: Nobody should feel embarrassed to have depression. It is characterised by a prolonged feeling of sadness, irritability, anxiety and hopelessness. People with depression may lose their appetite, suffer from headaches and other pains, and not sleep well. They might also overeat and put on weight, putting themselves at risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Depression can also cause cognitive changes including slowed thinking, difficulties with memory and learning new things, and negative thoughts about yourself and the future. Many men hide the fact they have depression, often using drugs and alcohol unsuccessfully to control feelings of despair. Depression is the second most common illness worldwide in terms of its social and economic impact. • Talk to trusted friends and family • Get enough sleep – a lack of sleep affects mood. Most people need at least eight hours of sleep a night • Get regular exercise • Limit the use of alcohol and other drugs • Complete beyondblue’s ‘depression checklist’ at www.beyondblue.org.au • Obtain advice and information from organisations such as beyondblue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline on 131 114 or SANE on 1800 187 263 • Talk to your GP. You may need to see a counsellor or a psychologist or may need a trial of anti-depressants • Depression that doesn’t improve with medicine or talking therapies or both may need specialist medical input from a psychiatrist. There are many new treatments being developed for severe and enduring forms of depression. Some of these are being trialled at The Alfred, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) which uses electromagnetic pulses. 33 Later Years Chronic kidney disease It is estimated that one in three Australians is at increased risk of developing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). You are at higher risk of CKD if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, smoke, are obese, have a family history of kidney disease, are over 60 years or if you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background. CKD is a long-term health condition that, in many cases, is potentially preventable. Diabetes and high blood pressure are overwhelmingly the leading contributors to kidney disease in Australia. The main function of the kidneys is to remove waste products and excess water from the blood. The kidneys process about 200 litres of blood every day and produce about two litres of urine. There are no real warning signs for kidney disease and there is no absolute cure. The finding of albumin (protein) in the urine is an indicator of possible CKD and is also a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Very importantly, CKD is associated with a very high incidence of cardiovascular disease including heart attacks and strokes. 34 Although measures can help slow progression of CKD in those patients whose kidneys ultimately fail, dialysis or transplantation are the only treatment options. Loss of kidney function may also cause other problems such as anaemia, high blood pressure, acidosis (excessive acidity of body fluids) and bone disease. What you can do: • If you have any of these risk factors – hypertension, diabetes, family history of CKD or are of an Aboriginal background – see your GP and have a blood and urine test for CKD • Don’t smoke • Check your blood pressure regularly and keep it under control. High blood pressure is the third leading cause of kidney disease in Australia • Exercise – do 30 minutes of exercise five days a week • Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight. Obesity can lead to diabetes and kidney disease. Men with a waist circumference of more than 94cm have an increased risk of developing chronic disease • Drink plenty of water • Ensure your blood glucose is well controlled if you have diabetes as diabetes is the leading cause of kidney disease. Failing eyesight While vision may start failing in the middle years, major problems with eyesight tend to occur in the later years, once people are over 60 years. laucoma sees the optic nerve at the back of the G eye slowly destroyed due to increased pressure inside the eye. Vision is lost from the periphery first. It is thought that more than 300,000 Australians have glaucoma and half of them don’t know it, as there are no noticeable symptoms until side vision starts to disappear. If not treated early, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Damage progresses slowly and the person doesn’t realise they have a problem until a large amount of nerve fibres are damaged. Treatment can slow the process so early detection is vital. Macular degeneration, where sight is lost from the centre of the eye, is the leading cause of blindness in Australia. In its early phases, it leads to trouble reading, driving and recognising faces. It becomes more common as people age, with one person in three over 80 having age-related macular degeneration. It is linked to smoking, family history and poor diet, but good treatments are available. It is thought that more than 300,000 Australians have glaucoma and half of them don’t know it. What you can do: • See an optometrist or ophthalmologist for an eye test if you have a family history of glaucoma or are over 50, as there are few early symptoms for this condition • Don’t ignore blurred or distorted vision – have your eyes checked regularly • Quit smoking – smoking triples your risk of eye conditions such as glaucoma • Eat a healthy diet, which includes fruit and leafy green and yellow vegetables and fish, limited fats and oils, and eat a handful of nuts weekly • Look after your eyes in the sunlight. Wear dark glasses or a hat in the sun and at the snow. A cataract is when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. People experience blurred vision and glare or light sensitivity. Cataracts are very common in people aged over 70 years and are often part of ageing. Damage from sustained sunlight can often be the cause of cataracts, especially in those who have spent years working outdoors without using sunglasses. The condition is treated with surgery. Surgeons replace the cloudy lens with a clear, plastic lens. 35 Later Years Osteoporosis Musculoskeletal conditions, which include osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, are a national health priority due to the huge burden of disease (in terms of cost and disability) these conditions involve. Every five minutes somebody in Australia is admitted to hospital with a fracture due to osteoporosis. While osteoporosis tends to be thought of as a problem affecting women, it’s actually very common for men to have thin, brittle bones too. One in three men over 60 years will fracture a bone due to osteoporosis and men have high mortality rates due to this condition, particularly following hip fractures. Often people do not realise they have osteoporosis until they have a fracture – most commonly in the hip, wrist or spine. After our 30s, bones slowly start to One in three men over 60 years will fracture a bone due to osteoporosis. lose density or strength. Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals, such as calcium, more quickly than the body can replace them. As a result, bones become thinner and more fragile so even a minor bump can cause a serious fracture. We all lose calcium every day through our skin and nails, sweat and urine. 36 If you have a fracture after a low level trauma, such as a stumble, you should be concerned about your bones. Bone density can be measured with a DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan. Osteoporosis needs to be treated early. Fractures can lead to stooping, muscle weakness, deformity of the spine and chronic pain. The big risk factors are: alcohol, which limits your absorption of calcium, long-term smoking and vitamin D deficiency. Concern about skin cancer has seen a shift to people being anti-sun, even in winter. As a result, many Australians are now deficient in vitamin D. Indoor lifestyles have also led to poor vitamin D levels. To ensure our bones are strengthened through sunlight, we all need some sun on our skin. What you can do: • Quit smoking, limit alcohol and caffeine • Exercise – walking is great for bone health Exercise increases muscle strength, balance and co-ordination helping to prevent falls • Soak up some sun – but avoid sunburn by staying out of the sun when the UV levels are high, usually 10am-2pm • Find out more about falls prevention. Simple strategies can help you avoid falls, which are the main reason people fracture their hips • Concentrate on calcium. Up to 51 years, eat at least two serves of calcium-rich foods (or 1000mg) a day and over 70 years, 1300 mg of calcium is recommended. Milk, yoghurt and most cheeses are high in calcium. After our 30s, bones slowly start to lose density or strength. 37 Later Years Osteoarthritis The most common joint disorder, osteoarthritis (OA) is due to loss of cartilage over the years. The cartilage in your joints cushions the bones but when that cartilage breaks down and wears away, the bones rub together causing pain and stiffness. OA mainly affects people over the age of 45, but it can develop in younger people. By the age of 70 almost everyone has some symptoms of osteoarthritis. Current trends suggest that by 2050, seven million Australians will suffer from some form of arthritis. While it cannot be cured or the progression slowed, symptoms can be controlled with medication. The hands and feet are most commonly affected and symptoms are usually worse after resting or not moving the joints for a while. Although you might want to avoid high impact activities like jogging, the generaladviceis:stayactive–exerciseincreases yourflexibilityandbonestrengthandpromotes general movement. However, don’t overuse a joint that is painful. Obesity is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis and fat around the abdomen puts men at particular risk. This is due to the load on the joints and metabolic reasons. Maintaining a health weight reduces your risk. Other risk factors include joint wear and tear and joint injury. If your job involves kneeling or squatting for more than an hour a day, you’re at risk of developing OA. Direct impact on the joint, such as with jogging, also put you at increased risk. Joints are prone to injury when you do sudden bouts of infrequent exercise, so keep your muscles strong and joints protected with regular exercise. What you can do: • Watchyourweight–decreaseextrabellyfat • Stayactive–activitiessuchasswimmingand Tai Chi are particularly good • Protectyourjoints–avoidlongperiodsofkneeling or squatting and irregular high impact exercise. There’s nothing like the 38 With delicious produce sampling, celebrity chef demonstrations, the Fine Food Deli and more, this years Show is a must for any foodie! MS717 TasTes of VicToria! Xxxxxxxxxxx Dementia More than 250,000 Australians currently live with dementia and that figure is expected to soar to almost one million by 2050 unless there is a medical breakthrough. One in four people over the age of 85 have dementia; it is the third leading cause of death in Australia after heart disease and stroke and is the biggest cause of disability in Australians over 65 years. Dementia refers to a group of illnesses that cause a progressive decline in brain function and affects thinking, behaviour and memory, disrupting everyday tasks. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia and accounts for 50 to 70 per cent of all cases. Most cases are not inherited. The condition sees abnormal material building up inside brain cells and ‘plaques’ developing outside brain cells, disrupting messages within the brain. These changes lead to the death of brain cells and significantlyaffectmemory–firstshort-termmemory and progressively, long-term memory. Other brain functions are also affected as the disease worsens, leadingtocompletedependenceandfinally death from complications of the disease, such as pneumonia. MS717 While people can have dementia in their 40s, it is more likely to occur after 65. Early signs include frequent memory loss, confusion, personality change and apathy. Symptoms vary from person to person, as does the progression of the disease. Dementia is the third leading cause of death in Australia after heart disease and stroke. The cause of dementia is not fully known. Numerous research studies are looking for cause and effective treatment. What you can do: • Seekearlydiagnosis–someconditionshave similar symptoms to dementia, including hormone disorders, depression, overmedication and infections. A full assessment can be carried out by Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS) clinics • Whilethereisnopreventionorcurefordementia, there are some medications that reduce symptoms, so ensure you see your doctor early for diagnosis and for tips on how to manage the condition • Seekmoreinformation–Alzheimer’sAustralia runs a National Dementia Helpline. Call 1800 100 500. 39 All Ages 40 Coronary heart disease Heart disease does not distinguish according to age and is the biggest killer of Australians aged between 25 and 64 years, and leading cause of hospitalisation for those over 65. The build up of fats, cholesterol and other substances in the heart’s arteries leads to cardiovascular disease. Blood vessel linings are usually smooth and durable but when scar and cholesterol tissue are deposited, the walls are weakened. This can cause cracks in the lining, which attract blood clots. If you are over 50, have your cholesterol checked. If blood supply to the heart is severely reduced the patient may have a heart attack. While it’s more common for men in their 50s and older to develop heart disease, you should start caring for your body early to ensure you are in the best possible shape and to avoid risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, poor diet or a life of inactivity. You’re at high risk of cardiovascular disease if you are over 35 years, smoke, are physically inactive, have diabetes, depression or a family history of heart disease. Warning signs include chest pains while at rest or during exercise, breathlessness and a general feeling of being unwell. But sometimes there are no warnings at all. Heart disease does not distinguish according to age. What you can do: • Visit your GP regularly to ensure any risk factors are known and well controlled • Have your blood pressure checked every two years if it is normal. Have it checked at least every year if it is borderline high. It needs to be checked more regularly if you have high blood pressure • If you are over 50, have your cholesterol checked. Those with a family history of heart disease should be checked in their 20s. A total cholesterol level of 5.5 or more is considered high in those with a family history of heart disease. If it is high, change your diet and check cholesterol levels regularly • Quit smoking • Exercise regularly – 30 minutes of moderate activity on most, if not all, days • Weigh yourself regularly, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, avoid foods high in saturated fats and limit your intake of alcohol and salt • Regularly eat fish and other sources of foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids • Relax – stress can cause a hardening of the arteries, blocking blood vessels. 41 Superannuation Health Check Is your super fund tired and not performing? 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For further information or enquiries please email [email protected]:404405withInterprac FinancialPlanningP/LABN14076093680AFSLNo:246638 Acknowledgements This publication was produced with the help of Alfred hospital staff: • Professor Peter Cameron, Director Research, Emergency & Trauma Centre • Professor Flavia Cicuttini, Head Rheumatology • Professor Tony Dart, Director, Cardiovascular Medicine • Professor Christopher Fairley, Director Melbourne Sexual Health Centre • Dr Judith Frayne, Senior Neurologist • Professor Russell Gruen, Director National Trauma Research Institute • Mr Jeremy Grummet, Urologist • Associate Professor Anthony Hall, Head, Ophthalmology • Dr Andrew Haydon, Medical Oncologist • Dr John Kelly, Head, Victorian Melanoma Service, The Alfred •Associate Professor Jeremy Millar, Director William Buckland Radiotherapy Centre • Professor Matthew Naughton, Head General Respiratory & Sleep • Associate Professor Harvey Newnham, Director General Medicine • Associate Professor Peter Royce, Director Urology • Dr De Villiers Smit, Director Emergency & Trauma Centre • Associate Professor Simon Stafrace, Director Alfred Psychiatry • Professor Elsdon Storey, Director Neurology • Professor Rowan Walker, Director Renal Medicine • Associate Professor David Williams, Senior Neurologist • Ms Heather Thomas, Public Affairs Thanks also to CHE Proximity for assistance in the production of this publication. 43 Sponsors A special thanks to Produced by Public Affairs & The Alfred Foundation Phone: 03 9076 3222 Fax: 03 9076 2775 Email: foundation@ alfred.org.au Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004 Australia PO Box 2021, Prahran, VIC 3181 H
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