Summary Musculoskeletal conditions are a range of conditions that affect the bones, muscles and connective tissues. In this bulletin, the musculoskeletal conditions reported include osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; osteoporosis; back problems; gout and other inflammatory arthropathies (in ammation of one or more joints); and lupus and other systemic connective tissue disorders. Arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions are...

Preventing the risk of asbestos exposure is important to all Australians. While the states and territories have taken steps to minimise exposure, predominantly in the workplace, this is the first time a national approach to asbestos eradication, handling and awareness is being pursued. The National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Management and Awareness (the plan) is...

We now understand asthma to be an inflammation of the bronchioles. This can either be an acute or chronic process and is present even in patients with mild disease. The severity of the inflammation is reliant upon a complex interplay between inherited tendencies and environmental triggers. The second article looks at coughs, their purpose and...