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Every year around 200,000 New Zealanders acquire a food associated illness. Gastrointestinal diseases account for the majority of all disease notifications in New Zealand. The majority of cases of infectious gastroenteritis are self-limiting and most people do not seek medical attention. When people do present, the key clinical issue is the prevention of dehydration. Empirical use of antibiotics is not usually indicated.
Generalised anxiety disorder in adults – diagnosis and management
Anxiety disorders are the most frequently seen mental disorder in general practice and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is one of the most common types. GAD is often seen in people who also have major depression. Psychological and drug therapies are equally effective in the treatment of GAD but the relapse rate for psychological therapies may be lower. Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are the first line option for drug treatment of GAD.
Non-occupational exposure to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Rates of HIV infection are increasing in New Zealand, especially among men who have sex with other men. GPs are often the first point of contact for people who have been exposed to HIV. Referral to an infectious disease specialist for post exposure prophylaxis may be appropriate in some cases. Regular HIV testing should be considered as a routine aspect of healthcare for people at risk of HIV exposure.
The majority of people with cancer will initially present to general practice, therefore GPs have an excellent opportunity to make a difference with early detection and the initiation of speedy referral to specialist services. However, the difficulty is to achieve improved cancer detection without increasing unnecessary referrals, which may reduce access to services for people who need them.
Lung cancer is the fifth most common cancer in New Zealand, however it is the leading cause of cancer mortality in men and the second highest cause in women. Recognising lung cancer early is the key.