A man sleeping in his bed at home. LEHTIKUVA
Finland witnesses a remarkable shift in public health trends, with long-term sickness absences caused by traditional diseases like heart and cardiovascular diseases, digestive system illnesses, and respiratory diseases now constituting only a third of what they were in 1970. This significant change is attributed to lifestyle modifications, improved living conditions, and changes in the nature of work.
A senior woman blankets her wheelchaired husband.
A recent study by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has brought to light the significantly lower quality of life experienced by individuals assisting their partners with functional limitations. The 2020 FinSote population survey, with responses from over 28,000 Finnish residents aged 20 and above, indicates that these caregivers face substantial psychological strain and assess their health as poorer compared to the general population.
Elderly woman streching during a dance class. LEHTIKUVA
A recent study, funded by Kela (The Social Insurance Institution of Finland), has shown that dance movement therapy, when combined with conventional treatments, significantly reduces depression symptoms more than conventional treatments alone. The researchers suggest that Finland should consider expanding the use of this therapy based on these promising results.
The study involved 157 participants, all diagnosed with depression posing a threat to their work or study capabilities.
A woman at home. LEHTIKUVA
In Finland, private healthcare facilities are reporting a significant increase in mental health-related visits, with a notably higher proportion of women seeking help for depression and anxiety. This trend reflects the growing mental health challenges faced by individuals across all ages and genders, although women seem to be disproportionately affected.
Terveystalo, a leading healthcare provider in Finland, is actively participating in a campaign that focuses on the escalating performance pressures faced by women.
LEHTIKUVA
Health authorities in the Helsinki-Uusimaa region are raising the alarm as reported sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to surge, with gonorrhea cases showing a particularly stark increase.
The incidence of gonorrhea in Finland has doubled since 2021. There were nearly 1,000 cases recorded in 2022 and an equal number by September of this year, with two-thirds occurring within the HUS (Helsinki University Hospital) area.
Bikers in Helsinki. LEHTIKUVA
A recent Finnish health survey, Terve Suomi, reveals concerning trends about the physical activity, sleep, and dietary habits among adults. The study, conducted between Autumn 2022 and Spring 2023, underscores growing health challenges in Finland.
Falling Short of Fitness Goals
Photo: HUS Ville Männikkö
In a promising turn of events, the New Pediatric Hospital has successfully reduced its waitlist for children's heart surgeries by half. At the end of last year, 110 children were awaiting their turn for heart surgeries. The number has now been reduced to 54.
Over the past year, the hospital has taken systematic and intensified actions to operate on pediatric patients requiring less complex heart surgeries, ensuring that the most critical cases receive timely care.
LEHTIKUVA
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the National Institute for Physiological Sciences (NIPS) have unraveled the mysteries surrounding how traumatic memories are etched into the brain. Published recently in Nature Communications, the study sheds light on the intricate neural processes underlying memory formation and reveals the mechanisms behind the creation of traumatic memories.
Photo: Nenad Stojkovic
Many adults grappling with symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) only seek professional help later in life. Delayed diagnosis often stems from the fact that the typical signs of ADHD, particularly hyperactivity, are less prevalent in adults. However, beneath a seemingly composed exterior, individuals can be wrestling with considerable internal challenges.
"Perhaps the most well-known and visible symptom of ADHD is hyperactivity, which is less common in adults.
Girl with cutting marks sitting at home. LEHTIKUVA
Today's youth are more adept at recognizing signs of mental distress in themselves and their peers, leading to a more open conversation about mental health than in previous generations, according to experts.
The rise in mental health issues among young people is influenced by various factors, with global insecurity being a significant challenge.
LEHTIKUVA
In a significant step towards ensuring community health, Helsinki will initiate the administration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations from November 6th, 2023. The online booking platform, Maisa, will open on October 26th, offering residents the convenience to schedule appointments for these vital vaccinations. Notably, vaccinations are available without appointments as well. Both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are provided free of charge to specific target groups.
