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Indigenous health 23 February 2026

Bulwul Balaang nurtures lifelong health for young Indigenous women, study shows

Leaders at the Waminda Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) in Nowra, NSW, have partnered with researchers at Charles Darwin University (CDU) to evaluate the Bulwul Balaang program for young Indigenous women. Outcomes included increased access to health checks, but researchers say that more importantly, the program lays the foundations for lifelong health.

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Rheumatology 23 February 2026

Ankylosing spondylitis: It may all start in your gut

New research from The University of Queensland team led by Prof Ranjeny Thomas, Dr Anne-Sophie Bergot and MD-PhD student Benjamin Cai suggests that ankylosing spondylitis may start when immune cells carry bacterial components from the gut to the joints in people who are genetically at risk. Traces of gut bacteria were found in the joints of disease-susceptible mice and patients. Supporting gut health and keeping macrophages quiet could create new routes to better manage AS.

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Dementia 23 February 2026

A simple tool to predict dementia risk after stroke

A new calculator tool offers clinicians a quick, evidence-based way to identify patients at higher risk of post-stroke dementia, supporting earlier intervention and, ultimately, helping stroke survivors maintain independence and quality of life for as long as possible.

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