Wellington, Feb 9 NZPA - After more than 50 years of increasing cancer rates in New Zealand, latest Ministry of Health projections paint a more promising picture.

New Zealand prostate cancer patients are the first in the Southern Hemisphere to be offered the latest development in brachytherapy treatment for prostate cancer. Two procedures using the new technology were performed in Auckland on Friday, January 22.

Wellington, Dec 8 NZPA - A private hospital surgeon breached health's consumers' rights code by failing to fully inform a cancer patient about his treatment options and the associated risks with complicated and prolonged prostate cancer surgery, the Health and Disability Commissioner says.

It is one of society's most delicate issues, but research released today shows that nearly half of all Kiwis have in some way been affected by mental illness

New Kiwi research into current prostate cancer treatments could help save lives and ease the suffering of those with this disease.

If you really want to be 'sunsmart' this summer then don't be afraid to get some sunshine; you need it for good health as the vitamin D your body produces has loads of positive benefits.

Hulk Hogan, the biggest name in professional wrestling, has today been announced as an official 'Mo' Mentor for this year's New Zealand 'Movember' - the moustache growing charity event held during November each year which raises funds and awareness for men's health.

Stars of New Zealand's favourite hospital drama Shortland Street are the latest celebrities to come on board as ambassadors for Movember.

It may not always be attractive, it might be difficult to groom and it could leave a rash - but an independent survey commissioned by Movember shows 97% of women would support their partner if he grew a mo for charity.

PHARMAC is acknowledging the role health professionals played in implementing medicine brand changes that affected a very large number of New Zealanders during 2008/09.