I was simply delighted to have been invited this week to give a talk for health literacy at An Cosán.

Health literacy is the ability to obtain, read, understand and use healthcare information.

28% of Irish people have low health literacy. 

Speaking about health outside the clinical space is really important to me. The space to ask questions and share information without the rush of clinic schedule or distraction, pain, or worry of acute illness or injury. For those of you who have been following, you will know that I set up this social media account 5 years ago in an effort to promote better health literacy, or the ability to understand health information and use that information to make good decisions and be involved in your, or your family’s, healthcare.

It’s great to speak – but any message is only useful with an audience. The project is 5 years old this week, and much thanks has to be given to those who have helped my mission to improve health literacy by giving my voice platforms, including community groups such as An Cosán yesterday as well as amazing journalist Louise Walsh, the always delightful Gerry Kelly and LMFM radio, and the followers who share and comment on the social media platforms or Blog.

When both sides of a debate claim scientific evidence:  are all scientific papers the same?

Vape and Nicotine

Physical Activity

Winterproof that Walk

Sleep

The REAL cost of alcohol misuse in Ireland?  The Drink Aware Calculator

Understanding processed foods

Resources for Healthy Eating including increasing fibre and reducing sugar for kids

Cholesterol

Whole Foods and Labels

Disease of Obesity

My tips for talking to your doc: Yes, doctors take their own children to the GP.      I Love and Hate “The List”    Your Best Doctor Visit Ever