Globality YouGenio News

Being by the coast is good for your health | 23.04.2012

Exercise in the great outdoors is good for you, but exercising on the coast is even better according to a new study. The study, from the European Centre for Environment and Human Health (ECEHH), found all outdoor locations were associated with positive feelings. The findings were presented to the British Psychological Societythis week. ...

Healthcare inspires negative feelings in consumers | 20.04.2012

Both physicians and consumers have strong, unfavourable feelings towards health insurers, according to a recent report released by AdSAM®. The survey was conducted online using blogs and social media. It found 61% of consumers and 78% of physicians display negative feelings. ...

Penalties for expats without adequate health insurance | 19.04.2012

According to Jelf Employee Benefits, a leading insurance consultancy, there has been a sharp increase in on-the-spot fines for people in the Netherlands. Individuals who don’t have the right international private medical insurance (PMI) in place are susceptible to these penalties. ...

Happy people have lower risk of heart disease | 18.04.2012

Scientists in the US have concluded generally optimistic and happy people have a higher level of protection against heart disease. Experts believe a general sense of well-being can lower risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol. This in turn lowers the person’s risk of a heart attack or stroke. ...

Travelling abroad for medical treatment? Do your research | 13.04.2012

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing market segment. A report published in 2011 estimated that there are 5 million people travelling globally for treatment (including dental, cosmetic and fertility treatment). Over 300 regions offer medical tourism services.  With many people being attracted by the possibility of combining travel with medical treatment and more countries competing for medical tourists this industry is set to grow. ...

Expats, choose your neighbourhood carefully | 12.04.2012

Childhood obesity is increasing in the western world – nearly 18% of school age children in the US are obese. The rate of obesity there has more than tripled in the last 30 years. Children who are obese are at greater risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and of suffering from obesity as adults. ...

Wealthier expats have better health | 11.04.2012

Scientists have found that people with a high socioeconomic status have better health than those with a lower socioeconomic standing. Factors such as having a high level of education and a job, also help protect against chronic diseases. ...

Expat mental health better in Nordic countries? | 10.04.2012

In a recent Expat Health post we reported that expatriates have higher levels of anxiety, depression and substance abuse than non-expats. Many reported family concerns as the main reason behind the failure of an international assignment. ...

Expats at greater risk of mental health issues | 09.04.2012

According to a recent study, expatriates face a higher overall risk for mental health problems and substance abuse issues. This underlines the importance of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and mental health support as the expatriate workforce expands. ...

Eat healthily: A low GI breakfast | 05.04.2012

Typical breakfasts vary around the world but some are healthier than others. The traditional cooked English breakfast with sausages, bacon, fried bread, mushrooms, tomatoes and beans is high on the glycemic food index. ...

57% of retirees worried about their health | 03.04.2012

Staying physically and mentally active in old age is linked with improved health and mental well being. Retirees who move abroad will find new diets and different activities are on offer to help maintain good health. ...

Pets at work decrease employee stress | 02.04.2012

...

Foreign language immersion can change your brain | 29.03.2012

Scientists have found that the way an adult learns a foreign language can affect the way their brain processes the language. Adults who undergo immersion, where they are completely surrounded by language examples, tend to have brain processes similar to that of native speakers. ...

Hay fever season: Will you suffer abroad? | 28.03.2012

It’s the time of year when the pollen starts to fall and eyes start to itch. If you have never suffered from hay fever before that may change when you move abroad. Various types of pollen are more prevalent in different areas and can affect people differently. ...

Medical Tourism: The Facts in 2012 | 27.03.2012

A recent report on medical tourism revealed some surprising facts. The data, gathered by author Ian Youngman, shows that most people don’t opt for the cheapest destination and Europe’s top three destinations are the most expensive. ...

Non-immunized adults at risk of disease | 23.03.2012

...

Bilingual immigrants are healthier than monolingual | 16.03.2012

According to a recent study, immigrants who speak two languages are healthier than those who speak only one. ...

Exchange students at high risk of STDs? | 15.03.2012

New experiences, friendships and cultures influence the life of exchange students in many positive ways. The excitement and change of environment can also expose them to numerous risks, for example, being infected with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). ...

Companies don’t encourage employee fitness | 14.03.2012

According to recent research over half of insurance workers don’t think their employers encourage health and fitness enough. ...

Expat guide: What to consider when buying health insurance | 13.03.2012

When moving abroad the thought of organising expatriate health insurance can be daunting. The range of policies available is vast and it’s essential that you look at many factors. ...

Health care in 3 top retirement destinations | 09.03.2012

Retiring abroad needs to be carefully planned – finances, expected living costs, accommodation and insurance are some of the things that need to be considered. One of the things on many retiree minds is the quality of health care in their new home. ...

Keep your expat teenager healthy and happy | 06.03.2012

According to researchers in the UK, teenagers who follow a healthy lifestyle including staying away from alcohol and cigarettes are significantly happier than those that don’t. ...

Expat guide: Health insurance information | 05.03.2012

One thing that should be organised before you leave for your expat adventure should be international health insurance. Your company may have already arranged your insurance, but you should always check the details. ...

Retired expats – stay active and stay healthy | 01.03.2012

2012 is the European Year for Active Ageing. Part of its objective is to promote healthy aging by actively contributing to your local environment. ...

The Olympics and Euro 2012 health tips | 28.02.2012

Many people will be travelling to two major sporting events being held in Europe this summer. The Olympic Games in London this August and the UEFA Football Championships being held in Poland and the Ukraine in June and July. ...

Top health apps for expats | 27.02.2012

Health apps are increasingly common and an invaluable tool for travelers and expats. Here we look at some of the best and newest apps on the market. ...

Know the alcohol limits for your country | 24.02.2012

Research carried out by the University of Sussex, England looked at young people’s knowledge of safe guidelines for alcohol consumption. The study found that less than half were able to answer questions on guidelines correctly. ...

Ways to fight expat depression | 22.02.2012

There are few statistics on depression and mental health issues among expatriates. Even without data it isn’t surprising that moving to another country can trigger emotional problems as you adjust to your new surroundings. ...

Top Tips: Avoid gaining weight abroad | 21.02.2012

Many people diet before a holiday to ensure they look their best. After spending weeks on a healthy diet, following a fitness regime and limiting your taste buds to healthy food it’s easy to let loose abroad. ...

Jet-lag affects body’s ability to fight disease | 17.02.2012

Researchers have found that the body’s ability to fight off disease is affected by the internal body clock. This natural 24-hour body clock is known as circadian rhythm. Travelling through time zones upsets circadian rhythm, which in turn means the body is more susceptible to infection. ...

Medical tourism surge sees more countries entering the market | 16.02.2012

The medical tourism market is growing rapidly and appears to be recession proof, according to new research on tourism niches. ...

Do you know the European emergency number? | 15.02.2012

According to a recent survey by Eurobarometer 74% of Europeans don’t know what number to call in an emergency. ...

4 health insurance tips to remember before moving abroad | 14.02.2012

Making sure you have the best value international health policy before moving abroad can take a lot of research. ...

Half of expats plan for extreme sports | 13.02.2012

More than half of people moving abroad plan to do some kind of extreme sports in their new country, a recent poll has revealed. ...

Expats should chose communities with small businesses | 08.02.2012

Sociologists at Louisiana State and Baylor Universities have found that areas with a high concentration of locally owned businesses have healthier populations – with lower rates of obesity, diabetes and mortality. ...

Life insurance hard to sell to expats | 03.02.2012

The increased cost of international life insurance policies means many expats are going without. According to Health Insurance Magazine critical insurance cover and other protection policies, such as life insurance, become very hard to sell once a client moves abroad.International private medical insurance (iPMI) is comparatively easy to sell and remains the focus of most insurance brokers. ...

Expat kids need to be educated about skin cancer | 02.02.2012

Evidence suggests that children who suffer sun damage at a young age have a higher risk of developing melanoma later in life. A group of scientists at the National CancerInstitute in Maryland found that young mice, whose skin was engineered to mimic human skin, developed melanoma as adults when exposed to UV radiation as young mice. ...

Is a happy expat a healthy expat? | 30.01.2012

Expats who are happier living abroad are potentially healthier, according to experts. Happiness has been linked to longevity and a decreased risk of certain diseases. ...

Scientists predict disease outbreaks at 2012 Olympics | 27.01.2012

Put hundreds of thousands of people in any environment and some are bound to get sick. Surely the 2012 London Olympics  will be no exception. ...

Worried about malaria? Check the malaria atlas! | 25.01.2012

Malaria is the world’s deadliest disease, posing a serious health threat in African and South American countries. Even expats are at risk for catching it. All it takes is one mosquito bite, which is why many countries in sub-Saharan Africa recommend courses of anti-malarial drugs before arrival. ...

Romania’s health system dies a slow, painful death | 25.01.2012

The public health system in Romania is slowly but surely collapsing, according to a recent AFP report. It is both underfunded and riddled with corruption. ...

Meningitis outbreak in Kuwait | 24.01.2012

A number of people have come down with meningitis in Kuwait recently, including a Pakistani expat.  While the expat is in stable condition, The Kuwait Times reported another Kuwaiti woman had died from her illness. ...

Turkey demands expats pay insurance tax | 23.01.2012

China has gotten a lot of press this year because of its new expat insurance tax, but at the same time Turkey has been quietly plugging away at reforms of its own. At the end of last week it passed the Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu (or SGK), a new mandatory health insurance scheme. ...

US patients at risk from drug shortage | 20.01.2012

US patients are at risk because of a shortage of “anti-infective” drugs, according to research published in Clinical Infectious Diseases. ...

EU creates the world’s healthiest videogame | 18.01.2012

We usually read about videogames being bad for our health: encouraging laziness, lack of sleep and less physical activity. But the EU’s Playmancer project aims to change all that. It’s developed a “healthy” videogame to help doctors and therapists treat a number of health issues. ...

Dubai unveils new vaccine standards | 17.01.2012

A 2009 study of vaccinations at Dubai clinics found pretty grim results: 28% of clinics were not following the national immunization schedule and a shocking 64% were not reporting adverse events. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) resolved to improve standards. ...

Help finding doctors abroad | 16.01.2012

Whether you’re living or traveling overseas, finding a doctor can be a daunting task. For one, there are questions of reputation and quality. Then there is the language barrier. Finding the best doctor in the world won’t do you a lick of good if you can’t make yourself understood. Communication problems also increase your chance of suffering medical error. ...

E. coli gets death by electrocution | 13.01.2012

When it comes to food safety, E. coli is a constant threat. Not a year goes by it seems without at least a handful of deaths from infected meat or produce. Case in point: last summer a European E. coli outbreak killed more than 50 people, including several travelers. ...

Chronic disease causes 60% of deaths in the Gulf | 12.01.2012

No matter where you live, your country of residence is probably struggling with chronic, non-communicable illnesses. These are conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified chronic disease as one of the world’s most pressing health problems. ...

Chinese insurance tax drains expat salaries | 11.01.2012

One of the top stories in expat-dom over the last year has been changes to China’s social welfare system. Specifically, the amount expats and employers must pay into it. Put simply, the new rules are eating expats’ salaries alive. ...

Google Flu Trends more useful than government data | 10.01.2012

Move over, government health agencies. It turns out Google does a pretty good job tracking the flu. So good, in fact, that researchers at Johns Hopkins University say hospitals may be better off following Google Flu Trends than government data. ...

Workplace deaths up 15% in Europe | 09.01.2012

Possibly the last place anyone would want to die is at work. Unfortunately, the number of workplace deaths in Europe rose 15% in 2011, increasing for the second straight year. ...

Weight loss app helps fight obesity | 06.01.2012

Regardless of where in the world we live, most of our New Year’s resolutions probably include losing weight. ...

Hepatitis outbreak in Chinese clinic | 03.01.2012

An outbreak of hepatitis C in two Chinese towns may have been caused by a medical clinic re-using dirty needles. According to a report on ChinaDaily.com, there have been 86 confirmed cases so far–but the total could be much higher. ...

Mental health meds fight drug resistant bacteria | 28.12.2011

One of the most pressing concerns in international health is drug-resistant disease. ...

Mid-East countries depend on expat doctors | 27.12.2011

“Brain drain” is a popular topic these days. It’s the tendency for highly skilled professionals from developing countries in the Middle East Africa and Asia to head abroad rather than work in their home countries. In the Middle East, this has triggered a shortage of qualified medical staff. ...

International controversy over dangerous breast implants | 23.12.2011

Fears about potentially lethal breast implants are spreading around the world after it was revealed implants produced by French Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) could rupture. According to Reuters as many as 300,000 women all over the world may have PIP implants. ...

Expats to fill Russian blood shortage | 22.12.2011

As resident foreigners, expats are usually excluded from some aspects of local life. They aren’t often allowed to vote, for example. ...

Plasma “toothbrush” burns out bacteria | 21.12.2011

It sounds like something out of science fiction–maybe a mad scientist’s lab–but a “plasma toothbrush” could soon arrive at a dentist near you. We half-expected it to use a laser beam. ...

Don’t let the flu ruin your holiday | 20.12.2011

‘Tis the season not only to be jolly, but also catch the flu. And rest assured, nothing replaces Christmas cheer (or travel plans) with utter misery faster than high fever, aching joints, a sore throat and vomiting. ...

Some cancer drugs may cause heart failure | 19.12.2011

There are few things that terrify a parent more than the thought of a child falling ill with cancer. Worse yet, for some kids the very drugs used to treat their cancer are as dangerous as the disease itself. ...

Live poultry markets linked to bird flu | 16.12.2011

Grocery shopping abroad can be exciting. This is especially true for expats living in countries where open-air markets are common. But while heaps of fresh food may be a welcome change from the supermarket, they can also carry health risks–particularly if they have feathers. ...

Smoking out the truth about electronic cigarettes | 15.12.2011

For years people have been trying to escape the health risks of smoking. Often not quitting so much as looking for safer ways to get nicotine into their bodies. ...

“Europeans are too hard on the NHS” | 13.12.2011

As an American mother living in the UK, I am thankful for the great British institution that is the National Health Service (NHS). ...

Bad melons kill 30 in the US | 12.12.2011

Of all the health issues concerning expats, food safety is right at the top of the list. Hardly a month goes by, it seems, without some failing, whether it’s radioactive milk or an e. coli outbreak. And it happens in developed countries as well as emerging economies. ...

As many as 38% of children may suffer chronic pain | 09.12.2011

Chronic pain is one of the most frustrating medical conditions out there. Its effects are terrible and yet relatively little is known about its causes. ...

Exercise can cure snack cravings | 08.12.2011

Most of us have sat in an office where there are little bowls of candy set out everywhere. Some next to a co-worker who passes them out relentlessly. ...

Japan recalls radioactive milk | 07.12.2011

You may want to think twice about feeding your baby Meiji powdered milk. Yesterday the Japanese company announced some 400,000 cans of its STEP powdered milk for infants had been contaminated with cesium radiation. ...

Healthcare costs abroad keep expats home | 06.12.2011

When it comes to retiring overseas, cost is king. Usually we think of this in terms of pensions, but it’s also true of healthcare. ...

Expats find best healthcare in Europe | 05.12.2011

It’s that time of year again. The results of HSBC’s 2011 Expat Explorer Survey are out and Belgium placed #1 for expat healthcare, followed by Germany and France. Those rankings are based on affordability, access and quality of care. ...

Scientists get USD 9 million to make salads safer | 02.12.2011

What’s a safe and healthy salad worth? Millions, according to food regulators and produce farmers in the US. Lives are at stake after all. ...

Could China’s expat tax be short-lived? | 01.12.2011

When China announced its new social insurance tax on expatriates (requiring them to pay into the Chinese health system), one of the most common complaints was that expats don’t use public hospitals. Access to China’s public health system was therefore something of a booby prize. ...

Eating fish could prevent Alzheimer’s | 30.11.2011

Fish has long been touted as a food that can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. ...

Patients wait longest in Canada, Sweden and Norway | 29.11.2011

Wait times are the boogeyman of public health systems all over the world. They cut to the very heart of the debate over costs versus access to care. ...

Exercising causes more injuries than fighting fires | 25.11.2011

Here at Expat Health we often stress the importance of regular exercise. Not only does it help people lose weight, but provides numerous other benefits, including improving people’s moods. ...

Study: 25% of Canadians eat too much fat | 23.11.2011

A quarter of Canadians between ages 31-50 eat too much fattening food, according to a recent study from Concordia University. ...

Managing hepatitis? Now there’s an app for that… | 22.11.2011

Smartphone apps are everywhere these days. The more popular they become, the more they’re used for healthcare applications. ...

Australia bans tobacco branding | 21.11.2011

Today Australia became the first country to ban advertising on tobacco packaging. No more logos, brands–even images are forbidden. ...

“Super” bacteria threaten European patients | 18.11.2011

Are you doing anything special for European Antibiotic Awareness Day? ...

E. Coli: The Good, the Bad and the Deadly | 16.11.2011

As far as we’ve seen, fun and creativity are rarities when it comes to research publications. So any study riffing on Sergio Leone was bound to catch our eye. ...

EU moves to “extinguish” cigarette fires | 15.11.2011

You don’t have to smoke a cigarette for it to kill you. ...

Kuwaiti docs oppose separate expat hospitals | 14.11.2011

The Kuwaiti doctors union has rejected a plan to create separate hospitals for expats, according to a report by Habib Toumi on gulfnews.com. ...

Is your country driving you to drink? | 11.11.2011

As it turns out, location has a major impact on peoples’ drinking habits. ...

Air pollution a danger to 90% of EU city-dwellers | 10.11.2011

Environment-wise, Europe is a pretty healthy place. ...

Russia bans “tainted” German pigs | 09.11.2011

Every day you eat poison. ...

Researchers to “sniff out” tuberculosis using electronic nose | 08.11.2011

It may sound like something out of a cartoon, but rest assured it’s true: two Indian researchers have been awarded a USD 950,000 grant to develop an “electronic nose” capable of detecting tuberculosis in a patient’s breath. ...

Habits of happy expat men | 07.11.2011

What makes men happy? If you thought it was all about grilling and beer, well… you wouldn’t be entirely wrong. MSN Health recently conducted an informal poll of men, a diverse group including everything from bottlewashers to stock brokers, bachelors to granddads. ...

Videos laud benefits of cross-border healthcare | 04.11.2011

Two recent videos are proof the EU Health Commission is still working hard to woo opponents of cross-border healthcare. ...

Rare flu infection could cause deadly pandemic | 03.11.2011

For years people have been writing about the potential for an apocalyptic flu outbreak. In fact, just this year we got a new apocalyptic flu movie: Contagion. ...

Scotland tackles its drinking problem with minimum prices | 02.11.2011

Scottish doctors are fighting hard for a law putting a minimum price on alcohol. They say higher prices will curb a national drinking problem that costs the public health system an estimated GBP 28 million a year. ...

Expat advice: Helping a child with learning needs | 01.11.2011

From the moment you decide to have a baby, the worry starts. I remember being nervous throughout my entire pregnancy, yet retaining the false hope that once the baby was born, I could relax. ...

Is red wine good for you? | 31.10.2011

When deciding to live in the Mediterranean, people often believe they will become healthier by adopting a Mediterranean lifestyle. The Mediterranean diet has been recommended by health experts the world over. Understandable, considering it’s low in saturated fat and high in vegetables and fish. ...

Dubai’s mandatory insurance law due in 2012 | 27.10.2011

Dubai’s mandatory health insurance scheme, currently under review, could be implemented as early as 2012, reports Claire Ferris-Lay on Arabian Business. This would involve only the initial stages of the plan, which would require every company to offer basic healthcare packages to both local and expat staff. ...

Obesity limits effectiveness of flu vaccines | 25.10.2011

While expats have known for a long time that obesity increases their chances of developing conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, it may also limit the effectiveness of flu vaccines. New research published in the International Journal of Obesity shows that obesity impairs peoples’ immune responses to vaccinations. ...

Study: Mobile phones do not cause cancer | 24.10.2011

Expats can rest a little easier knowing there is no link between mobile phone use and cancer, at least according to a recent study conducted in Denmark and published in the British Medical Journal. ...

Redesigned Just Landed website offers 50 expat health guides | 24.10.2011

Just Landed has launched a redesigned website featuring a fresh look, easier navigation and a redesigned brand (look familiar to you Expat Health readers?). The new website is also optimized for viewing on tablet devices such as the iPad. ...

Ebola-like virus discovered in Europe | 21.10.2011

Researchers have discovered a new Ebola-like virus, Lloviu virus, in bats from northern Spain. Lloviu is the first known filovirus native to Europe. ...

No free NHS treatment at home for UK expats | 20.10.2011

British expats are up in arms over new rules preventing them from receiving free NHS treatment. The new regulations, designed to curb expat “medical tourism,” forbid free treatment to UK pensioners who have lived abroad for six months or more. ...

Emerging economies show improved healthcare at low cost | 19.10.2011

In the developed world, debate rages on over whether a quality public health system can exist at reasonable cost. A recent Reuters report argued the problem with the Spanish healthcare system was that it was too good–that is to say, the Spanish people cannot actually afford the quality of care being delivered. ...

European Commission wants clearer prescription information | 17.10.2011

The European Commission will amend the rules on the types and amount of information the pharmaceutical industry is allowed to supply to consumers. Interestingly, the amendments are actually aimed at reducing the amount of information available, in order to prevent consumers from being overwhelmed. ...

Half of Americans and Canadians skip soap when washing hands | 14.10.2011

40% of Americans and 53% of Canadians say they sometimes wash their hands without soap, according to a survey by global hygiene company SCA and IPOBE Zogbe International. The survey was commissioned in honor of Global Handwashing Day (October 15th, for expats who aren’t in the know). ...

Reuters: Austerity strangling Spanish health system | 12.10.2011

Austerity measures designed to keep Spain’s public finances afloat are strangling the public health system, according to Reuters report by Paul Day. ...

Research showing competition improves healthcare is flawed | 10.10.2011

The UK government’s claims that patient choice improves healthcare is based on flawed data, according to research published in the medical journal, The Lancet. A government study concluded competition reduced deaths from heart attack. ...

Measles outbreaks in Europe, Africa, Americas | 07.10.2011

Significant measles outbreaks have been reported on three continents so far in 2011. The World Health Organization (WHO) now has a summary available on its website, broken down by geographic area. ...

Dubai delays mandatory insurance law | 06.10.2011

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) recently announced its mandatory health insurance scheme would be postponed till 2013. The delay appears aimed at allowing businesses and individuals in Dubai more time to prepare for the change. ...

Severe stress could trigger breast cancer | 05.10.2011

The relationship between attitude, outlook, mood and breast cancer is up for debate, but a recent Israeli study of women under the age of 45 found that exposure to stressful life events (such as the divorce or death of parents before age 20), was associated with breast cancer. ...

DNA “priming” may be key to universal flu vaccine | 04.10.2011

New research has shown that “priming” a person with flu DNA improves his response to a flu vaccine. ...

70% of UAE residents prefer to get health information online | 03.10.2011

A survey of UAE residents showed a majority of both expats and locals prefer consulting the internet for health information. The survey, sponsored by The National Insurance Company – Daman, found 70% of people prefer going online for health information to actual doctors’ appointments. ...

China’s new insurance tax goes into effect Oct. 15 | 29.09.2011

In July it was announced that China would be levying a new tax on expats and their employers. At the time the details were frustratingly murky. Now they are out and the clarity is unlikely to make either expats or their employers happy. ...

Climate change to drive European death rates higher | 28.09.2011

Climate change that has occurred since the 1970s caused an extra 140,000 deaths a year up till 2004, according to the World Health Organization. That rate is now due to rise even further, says the Climate-TRAP project’s health impact assessment. It claims Belgium, France, Spain and Portugal will see the largest increases in “ozone-related deaths” over the next 60 years. ...

Tips for developing emotional resilience | 27.09.2011

Generally defined, emotional resilience is the psychological ability to adapt to the significant challenges, misfortunes and major set-backs that life throws our way. It allows us to either maintain or return to a positive view of life after turmoil. ...

Swine flu common in African livestock | 26.09.2011

Scientists from UCLA found swine flu (or H1N1) is becoming common place in many African villages. In one village in Cameroon, 89% of the animals were infected with the virus. ...

Australians quietly suffer health, obesity crisis | 20.09.2011

Australia has long been known as a healthy nation thanks to its citizens’ passion for sports and active, outdoor lifestyles. In fact, Australia is a popular destination with British expats seeking a healthier lifestyle in a warmer climate. Unfortunately, a recent survey by international health insurer Bupa is likely to shake this perception. ...

New medical tests for UAE expats | 19.09.2011

The UAE announced a new program of medical tests for expats from Sri Lanka and Indonesia, effective October 1st. The move is part of the first phase of the GCC countries’ “Expatriate Workforce Check-up Programme,” announced in May. It will eventually grow to include expats from 10 countries, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Nepal, Egypt Sudan and Ethiopia. ...

Accidental poisoning still a major cause of injury among kids | 16.09.2011

Expats, and indeed all parents, should take care to keep medication out of reach of children. A recent study by doctors at the University of Cincinnati’s Children’s Hospital found accidental poisoning remains a common childhood injury despite the prevention efforts of recent decades. ...

Drug resistant flu more likely to result from mutation than overprescription | 15.09.2011

With the release of Contagion (the apocalyptic bird flu movie), attention is back on the flu’s ability to end life as we know it. ...

“Language barriers can undermine expats’ confidence in their doctors” | 13.09.2011

Local health systems can be intimidating to some expats, who fear language barriers and lower quality care than what they are used to in their home countries. This sometimes drives them to purchase costly private insurance plans or seek care at private clinics. ...

Cayman Islands eye health reform | 12.09.2011

Long a popular destination for expat funds, the Cayman Islands is looking to reform its health system by encouraging patients to seek private care rather than rely on the public health scheme. ...

New malaria vaccine set for trials this fall | 09.09.2011

A possible malaria vaccine, PfSPZ, is set to undergo trials this fall, according to the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease’s Vaccine Research Center. Malaria is one of the world’s deadliest diseases, infecting about 225 million people each year and killing a million. Malaria is a threat in Africa, the Americas and Asia, though the majority of deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa. ...

Exercise may reduce risk of dementia | 08.09.2011

Most expats already know about the benefits of exercise in terms of physical health and self-esteem, but according to new research from the Mayo Clinic it may also help combat more serious mental health conditions. A study by the May Clinic found exercise may actually reduce the risk of dementia, and could even slow the disease’s progress once it has developed. ...

165 million Europeans suffer from mental disorders | 07.09.2011

Mental health issues are a key challenge facing European health systems, according to a study published by the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology. It examined a population of 514 million people, finding 164.8 million (38.2%) suffer from a mental disorder of some kind. ...

Teens need better info on medication | 06.09.2011

35% of boys and 45% of girls in Europe and the US regularly take medication. Yet according to recent research, pharmacists do a poor job of communicating the risks and benefits of various medications to teens. ...

Chili peppers help ease sinus problems | 26.08.2011

A nasal spray containing an ingredient derived from hot chili peppers (Capsicum annum) may help people with sinus problems, found a study by University of Cincinnati researcher Dr. Jonathan Bernstein. ...

Bacterium could stop spread of dengue virus | 26.08.2011

Dengue fever is one of the world’s most serious health issues, impacting an average 50 million people in 100 countries annually. These include popular expat destinations such as India, Malaysia and Thailand. Each year, dengue kills thousands and forces hundreds of thousands more to seek hospital treatment. Worldwide, the annual cost of treating the disease is in the billions of dollars. Now, however, scientists have found that a common bacterium may be able to stop it from spreading. ...

MediCare identifies most common expat health problems | 24.08.2011

MediCare International released a statement detailing the most common health problems reported by its expat clients, finding “everyday” ailments such as back problems and hypertension far outweighed cases of serious diseases and emergencies. ...

Business travelers want better local health info | 23.08.2011

60% of business travelers visit “high risk” destinations each year, according to a survey from travel, medical and security assistance firm International SOS. 16% travel to high risk destinations five or more times in a single year. ...

Hong Kong has highest number of chronic illnesses abroad | 22.08.2011

Nearly half of Hong Kong residents say they suffer from a chronic illness such as obesity, depression, heart disease, asthma, diabetes or cancer, according to Bupa’s 2011 Health Pulse Survey. ...

South African health reform meets opposition | 19.08.2011

Critics of South Africa’s new National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme say it is underfunded and will not address the underlying issues impacting the country’s public health system, according to a piece by Xolile Bhengu in the Financial Mail. ...

West Nile Virus reported in Europe | 18.08.2011

Between July and August 11th, West Nile Virus infections have been reported in Albania, Greece, Israel, Romania and Russia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO attributed the apparent spike in cases to better reporting practices and hot, humid conditions favorable to mosquitos, the carriers for the virus. ...

Thai authorities probe mystery of expat deaths | 17.08.2011

Disturbing news out of Thailand had authorities calling for closer investigation of expat and tourist deaths, reported Alan Morison of The Phuket News. The recent deaths of seven foreigners from either gas or chemical poisoning had drawn criticism of the current procedures. ...

Study probes link between stress and overeating | 15.08.2011

With obesity on the rise worldwide, weight issues are fast becoming a key concern for expats. Now, researchers at the University of Calgary’s Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI) claim to have uncovered a link between stress and appetite, a discovery that may provide insight into the relationship between stress and obesity. ...

Illegal pharmacies target search engines | 12.08.2011

Expat internet users have long been subject to all manner of email spam. Many of these messages advertise cut-rate drugs sold by illegal pharmacies. Now, according to a recent study by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, online sellers of fake and expired drugs have switched to targeting search engines. ...

London GPs receive “riot guidance” | 09.08.2011

London general practitioners (GPs) should take steps to protect their staff and premises from growing unrest, according to a statement from Londonwide Local Medical Committees, a professional advocate for GPs. Londonwide emphasized that practices have a duty of care to staff. ...

Drug resistant salmonella reaches Europe | 08.08.2011

It seems Europe can’t catch a break these days: a sovereign debt crisis, a deadly e. coli outbreak and now–according to researchers from France’s Pasteur Institute–a drug resistant strain of salmonella. A recent study by Simon Le Hallo and François-Xavier Weill found a strain of salmonella resistant to commonly-used antibiotics has spread from the Middle East and Africa to Europe over the last 10 years. ...

FDA approves unique scorpion antivenom | 05.08.2011

Expats living in desert climates in the US and Mexico will soon have one less thing to worry about: scorpion stings. The US Food and Drug Administration just approved a drug called Anascorp–the world’s first ever scorpion antivenom. ...

Avoid heat stroke on summer holiday | 03.08.2011

Expats and travellers alike will spend lots of time in the sun in August as they enjoy their summer holidays. Yet while natural rays are certainly preferable to the fluorescent glare of office lighting, there are health risks associated with too much sun. The most obvious are dehydration and heat stroke. ...

Consumers fear rising health costs | 02.08.2011

Healthcare costs and a slowing economy are of key concern to consumers, found Deloitte in its 2011 Survey of Healthcare Consumers. Nearly half of respondents across 12 countries said their spending on healthcare had increased in the last year. ...

NHS trusts deliberately increase wait times | 01.08.2011

NHS hospitals are imposing “minimum wait times” to save money, found a recent study by the UK’s Co-operation and Competition Panel (CCP). The CCP report said one primary care trust sought to increase wait times from 13 to 16 weeks (patients in England have a legal right to start hospital treatment within 18 weeks of treatment by their general practitioner, or GP). It concluded: ...

WHO: E. coli outbreak “nearly over” | 28.07.2011

The most recent update from the World Health Organization (WHO) said the number of e. coli cases in Germany and France is “much diminished.” It concluded “the [most recent] figures reflect some delayed reporting, and the evidence indicates the outbreak, which took 50 lives in Germany alone, is nearly over.” ...

21% of British dentists report funding cuts | 27.07.2011

A significant number of British dentists have reported funding cuts as a result of recent NHS reforms, according to the British Dental Association’s (BDA) 2011 Dental Commissioning Survey. 21% of those surveyed said their budget for primary dental care had been reduced by 4% or more, while 18% reported smaller cuts in hospital dentistry. ...

Expat horror stories of Saudi maternity care | 25.07.2011

Expats in Saudi Arabia are coming forward with horror stories of the Kingdom’s maternity care, according to Abu Mohamed on MidEastPosts.com. The piece, titled “Saudi Maternity: Good Business, Bad Medicine?” draws on the experiences of expats and locals alike. One man, Chris, said his wife was forbidden from breast-feeding her baby by hospital staff, and generally treated “like furniture.” His co-worker Ahmed–who had originally advised Chris to return to the US for his wife to give birth–had an even more frightening story: ...

“Some foreign suppliers fake drugs to maximize profits” | 22.07.2011

40% of the finished medicines and 80% of the active ingredients on US store shelves are manufactured overseas, and recent years have seen several high-profile cases of illness and death as a result of adulteration (replacing  ingredients with cheap or even fake substitutes). A 2008 case involving heparin resulted in 81 deaths and nearly 800 severe illnesses. ...

Twitter can help doctors, patients communicate | 19.07.2011

A study by the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) concluded Twitter is an effective means for the public to communicate health concerns and offers healthcare providers a new channel for contacting patients. The study, titled “Public Surveillance of Dental Pain via Twitter,” found Twitter users were already using the site to share their experiences and seek advice from other users. The results were published in the Journal of Dental Research. ...

Test predicts immune responses to flu vaccines | 18.07.2011

Researchers at the Emory Vaccine Center have developed a method of scanning genes to determine whether someone will develop an immune response to a flu vaccine. The test is administered three days after the vaccination and is 90% accurate. It predicts the body’s response for up to a month after vaccination. ...

Guest Post: Ease the “pain” of moving abroad | 15.07.2011

If the stress of moving abroad has caused you aches and pains, the Alexander Technique may well be a solution. Stress impacts our bodies as well as our minds. As a result, you can develop all kinds of painful physical “coping mechanisms” during your transition abroad. Neck, shoulder and jaw pain, headaches and backaches may all materialize out of nowhere. Packing and sorting boxes in a limited time certainly doesn’t help matters. ...

Are the British too fat? | 14.07.2011

Recent OECD statistics paint a grim picture of obesity in the UK: nearly 25% of Britons are obese and over 60% overweight, compared to an average of 16% and 50% for the OECD as a whole. And while the British can take comfort in the fact that England is far from the fattest country in the world (the United States wins that booby prize by a wide margin), the projections are alarming. The OECD estimates British waistlines will continue to balloon till 2020, at which point about 70% of the country’s population will be overweight. ...

US drug safety lacking, finds study | 12.07.2011

A white paper by the Pew Health Group, the product health and safety arm of the Pew Charitable Trusts, found US drug safety sorely lacking. The study, titled “After Heparin: Protecting Consumers from the Risks of Substandard and Counterfeit Drugs,” concluded that international supply chains and a greater reliance on medicines produced in developing countries have increased the likelihood of fake and low quality drugs ending up on store shelves. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates 40% of finished drugs and 80% of active ingredients currently come from overseas. ...

Hong Kong greenlights health reform | 11.07.2011

Hong Kong’s Secretary for Food & Health, Dr. York Chow, said the autonomous region would set up groups to evaluate health reforms: namely an amended public health protection scheme. His announcement marked the end of a lengthy consulting process that evaluated over 500 submissions on the state of Hong Kong’s health system. ...

“When moving abroad people should consider a regular place of care” | 07.07.2011

ExpatHealth.org spoke to Harvard researcher Dr. Christine Lu about her recent study on medical error. Dr. Lu discussed common risk factors across countries and advised expats how to reduce their chances of experiencing medical error. ...

Malta to implement cross border health directive in 2013 | 06.07.2011

Malta’s Ministry of Health, the Elderly and Community Care will implement the EU’s directive on cross border healthcare by October 2013, according to a recent Health Ministry statement. The island nation is working to comply with a court decision ordering it to inform the public of its publicly funded healthcare package (the information has been available online since October 2010 and is updated regularly). ...

EHIC card no substitute for health insurance | 05.07.2011

Countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) are now required to issue European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs). The cards entitle the bearers to “treatment that becomes medically necessary during a temporary visit to EEA countries or Switzerland” (as per the EHIC website). They have caused some confusion, however, as some travellers and expats have begun treating them as a substitute for health insurance cover. It’s important to remember that an EHIC card is not a replacement for comprehensive health and travel insurance. ...

WHO: Do not eat raw bean or seed sprouts in Europe | 04.07.2011

...

Scarlet fever spreads in Hong Kong | 01.07.2011

Hong Kong has faced a steep rise in scarlet fever cases this year: 600 infections and two fatalities. Mainland China and Macau have also seen increased numbers of cases, leading a top health official to call the outbreak “a regional phenomenon.” ...

E. coli cases spread to France | 27.06.2011

France has reported 8 cases of e. coli, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).  6 women and 2 men have fallen ill. All are believed to have eaten contaminated bean or seed sprouts. An investigation is underway to determine whether the French and German outbreaks have a common source. ...

Study: Flu vaccination during pregnancy protects infants | 23.06.2011

Infants born to mothers who were vaccinated against influenza are half as likely to be hospitalized for flu than those of mothers not vaccinated, found a study by researchers at Wake Forest Baptist College. It was the first laboratory-based study to reach this conclusion. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) currently recommends influenza vaccination for anyone older than 6 months of age, but specifically singles out target groups (including pregnant women) who have a greater risk of influenza-related complications. ...

Aetna cuts costs with paperless contracting | 23.06.2011

Aetna was recognized among the InfoWorld Green 15 for eliminating paper from the contracting process for healthcare professionals. It is the first health insurer to use EchoSign e-signature technology to offer electronic contract processing, which allows both Aetna and healthcare professionals to ...

USA and Australia show highest rates of medical error | 22.06.2011

Patients who received poorly coordinated medical care or were unable to afford basic medical costs were much more likely to report errors in their medication or treatment, according to a study published in the International Journal of Medical Practice. Researchers from the USA and Australia used data from the Commonwealth Fund International Health Policy Survey to identify the key risk factors behind the errors reported by patients from Canada, USA, the Netherlands, UK, Germany, Australia and New Zealand. 11% of the 11,910 people surveyed said they had suffered a medication or medical error in the last two years. Patients in the USA and Australia reported the highest rates of medical/medication error: 13%. Germany and the UK reported the lowest at 9%. ...

Estonian expat dies of “broken heart” | 21.06.2011

An Estonian expat living in Phuket, Thailand was found dead over the weekend. Phuket News noted that even though 44-year old Artur Mansurov is believed to have died of health problems related to alcoholism ...

WHO studies find dengue fever costly as it is deadly | 20.06.2011

The World Health Organization (WHO) released its latest Dengue Bulletin, a special issue devoted to 10 studies on the cost of dengue fever and various prevention strategies. In an age where many diseases are on the decline dengue continues to pose a serious health threat all over the world. In Brazil, for example, the number of cases increased 6.2% and deaths 12% between 1999-2009. ...

5 new cases of avian influenza in Egypt | 16.06.2011

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported 5 new cases of avian influenza (or  “bird flu”) in Egypt, 3 of which were fatal. The cases were scattered across the country, and are all believed to have resulted from exposure to infected poultry. They were confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratory. ...

Screening for sleep apnea could save companies millions | 15.06.2011

Large companies could save a serious chunk of change by screening employees for obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, suggested a recent study by American doctors Clelia Lima and Elizabeth M. Rash. The pair found one American company could save $136 million over 10 years by both screening high-risk employees for OSA and providing treatment. ...

Bean and seed sprouts responsible for German E. coli outbreak | 12.06.2011

German health officials have identified bean and seed sprouts as the cause of the recent E. coli outbreak, specifically fenugreek, mung beans, lentils, adzuki beans and alfalfa. On Friday, Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food safety (BVL) and Robert Koch Institute (RKI) released a joint statement recommending ...

“Presenteeism:” Working while ill may cause health complications | 10.06.2011

Too much work may be hazardous to your health – literally. Recent research by Professor Kevin Dew of Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand examined the phenomenon of “presenteeism,” or pressure to work while ill. His paper, published today in the British Medical Journal, found people who habitually work sick are likely to develop serious health complications. These include musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, depression and serious coronary events. ...

NDM-1: Drug-resistant bacteria hits medical tourists | 09.06.2011

Some medical tourists who went to India and Pakistan looking for cheap health procedures have come back with an unwanted souvenir: a drug-resistant strain of bacteria named New Delhi Metallo-beta-lactamase (better known as NDM-1). According to Medicinenet, NDM-1 bacteria usually cause urinary, wound and bloodstream infections. Symptoms include fever and fatigue. In terms of its health impact, NDM-1 is not much different from other bacteria in the infection-causing Enterobacteriaceae family. The reason NDM-1 has caused a stir is it is resistant to most anti-biotics. ...

Easy tips for a healthy diet | 08.06.2011

One of the joys (and sometimes perils!) of living abroad is the food. As an expat you will enjoy dishes that may be very different from those in your home country. Meals are also great for bonding with friends, co-workers and fellow expats. They’re one of the very first places you’ll get to grips with foreign culture. Unfortunately, all those cross-cultural calories can take a toll on your health. ...

WHO: 2,100+ E. coli cases in Europe, nearly all linked to Germany | 06.06.2011

The World Health Organization (WHO)  has published updated statistics for the E. coli outbreak in Central amd Northern Europe. As of June 5th, about 1540 cases of Enterohemorrhagic E. Coli (EHEC) and 630 of Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS) – a deadly kidney illness linked to EHEC – had been reported. Though spread across 11 countries, nearly all were linked to Germany in some way. ...

Death toll from German E. coli outbreak rises to 16 | 01.06.2011

16 people have died and more than 1,000 are ill (with 400 of those in critical condition) due to a sudden outbreak of E. coli, according to the latest reports from Europe. Originally confined to Germany, cases have since been reported in Denmark, France, the Czech Republic, the U.K., the Netherlands, Switzerland and now even the United States. The common thread in nearly all of them is Germany, where authorities suspect contaminated vegetables triggered the outbreak. Two batches of cucumbers imported from Spain were found to be contaminated, and German health officials are currently testing another from either Denmark or the Netherlands. ...

HUS outbreak linked to Germany | 29.05.2011

3 people have died and another 276 have been hospitalized in Germany following a May outbreak of Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS). While cases have been reported in other countries, all those affected by the disease recently visited Germany, particularly northern Germany. HUS is caused by harmful strains of E. coli bacteria sometimes present in food, and is most common among children. Early symptoms of HUS include bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fever and vomiting, which may later turn to full kidney failure. The mortality rate for HUS is about 5%. ...

What is the Cross-Border Healthcare Initiative? | 27.05.2011

The Cross-Border Healthcare Initiative was approved by the European Union in late February 2011. Its ultimate goal is to better integrate Europe’s national healthcare systems (and will ideally benefit European expats). Some of the Cross-Border Healthcare Initiative’s key provisions are as follows: ...

4 tips for the best expat healthcare | 26.05.2011

60% of travellers cite healthcare as a major concern when going abroad. Yet navigating the world of international health and insurance can bewilder at times. ...

Wealthy travellers risk less health insurance | 23.05.2011

Luxury travellers and wealthy expats often purchase less health insurance cover than they should, according to Dr. Tom Brett, Lead General Practitioner for online chemist Lloyd’spharmacy. Brett said that while 60% of people moving or travelling abroad have concerns about getting ill, many of them do nothing about it. Wealth travellers in particular often skimp on health insurance cover. ...

UAE to fight alcoholism among expats | 21.05.2011

A landmark study by the UAE’s National Rehabilitation Center (NRC) recently concluded that 5.3% of all deaths in the UAE are caused by illicit drugs or alcohol. A 2010 survey showed alcohol consumption had risen 30% over the last five years, and in the last decade the number of Alcoholics Anonymous Arabia (AA Arabia) meetings has increased 700%. ...

Choosing international student health insurance | 19.05.2011

With the summer travel season soon upon us it’s a good time to mention how important it is for students and other young travelers to obtain international health insurance. It’s easy to get caught up visualizing hot summer nights in beautiful places and forget all about how quickly health problems can put a damper on any trip. ...

Health insurers poised for high growth, fierce competition in India | 10.05.2011

India’s insurance industry is set to grow faster than its economy till 2020, according to a recent post at Globalsurance, with total premium income to hit anywhere from 350 to 400 billion US dollars. This would be an increase of more than five fold in just under 10 years  (the Indian insurance sector currently consists of 23 life and 24 non-life insurance firms, valued at a cumulative total of around USD 66 billion). ...

How to stay safe in the post bin Laden world | 08.05.2011

The US State Department has updated its Worldwide Travel Alert to reflect “recent counter-terrorism activity in Pakistan” (read: the killing of Osama bin Laden). According to the revised text ...

Spain top pick for expat kids’ health | 06.05.2011

The recent release of HSBC’s interactive Expat Explorer tool was good news for Spain, which expats gave top marks for children’s health. ...

New health exam requirements for expats in the UAE | 05.05.2011

The head of the UAE’s Ministerial Service Council, Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, recently announced expats must now pass medical exams in both their home countries and the UAE in order to obtain work visas. ...

Reported measle cases on the rise in Europe | 22.04.2011

Recently several European countries have seen an increase in reported measle cases. Expats in these countries should check that their vaccinations are up to date. ...

7 tips to stay healthy on long flights | 22.04.2011

Expatriates tend to take many more flights than the average population. However, the regular long-term airtrips take a toll on your health, especially if you fly overseas. If you frequently travel on long distance flights, read our 7 top tips on how to minimize the risk and side-effects for your health. ...

Growing interest in Mediterranean property | 21.04.2011

A growing number of British investors are looking at buying property in Southern Europe, new research has suggested. ...

How safe is your food abroad? | 13.04.2011

Finding safe ingredients is a major concern of many expatriates, especially in developing countries. In many previously ‘difficult’ destinations, the rise of organic food is making it easier for expats to find healthy food. ...

66% of British expats worry about weak pound | 13.04.2011

The 1.1 million British pensioners living abroad are increasingly concerned about the exchange rate of the pound. In a recent survey from Lloyds TSB International among British expatriates released today, over two thirds of respondents said they have worries about reduced pension income. ...

Malta expat gets €500,000 of free healthcare | 12.04.2011

The Maltese authorities have closed a loophole in the country’s health care system. According to the Times of Malta, the residence scheme for foreign property buyers was suspended because of misuse: A British cancer patient had received €500,000 worth of free treatment in Malta after buying a €100,000 property. ...

Kuwait waives medication fees for expats | 09.04.2011

The Kuwait Ministry of Health has decided to to waive cancer medication fees for expatriates. Expatriates will no longer be required to pay for cancer diagnosis and treatment in all hospitals and medical centers, provided they are legal residents in the country. ...

Surviving Bahrain | 08.04.2011

The political situation in Bahrain has affected many expats working there. Many employers have sent families home or have been recalled where possible. Obviously, there is a massively higher than normal risk of injury at the moment. So making sure expatriate workers there are going to be able to get quality treatment and prompt repatriation is more important than ever. ...

Qatar unveils new National Health Strategy | 08.04.2011

Qatar has unveiled their ambitious National Health Strategy 2011-16 (NHS). The six year plan is designed to transform Qatar’s existing medical infrastructure into a comprehensive and integrated healthcare system accessible to all. It is aimed to generate the positive health outcomes set about in the development plan named Qatar National Vision 2030. ...

Canada is the world’s friendliest country | 07.04.2011

If you’re moving to Canada, Bermuda or South Africa, you might never want to go back again. According the most recent HSBC Bank International’s Expat Explorer survey, these were the most welcoming countries for expatriates. ...