Tranmere Village Medical Centre

01/04/2026

Every Autistic person brings a unique perspective to the world. Through patient listening, thoughtful actions, and inclusive language, we can all help create a society where everyone feels valued and understood. This World Autism Understanding Month (April 2026), take a moment to learn how you can be a part of meaningful change: aspect.org.au/waum ( Aspect)

This World Autism Understanding Month, create understanding and acceptance by celebrating life on the autism spectrum.

18/03/2026

This Sunday 22nd March 2026, is when the people of Adelaide will March to raise awareness and funds for research to reach the goal of zero deaths from melanoma.

Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) holds Melanoma March each year which is a national community fundraising campaign which brings together melanoma patients, their families, and local communities to raise awareness and funds.

According to MIA, Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world. It is the most common cancer affecting 20-39 year olds, with one Australian being diagnosed every 30 minutes.

Melanoma develops in the skin’s pigment cells, know as melanocytes, and can spread via the blood and lymphatic system to other organs like the lungs, liver and brain. These melanocytes produce melanin to help protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation (sunlight), when these cells cluster together they form a mole. Melanoma occurs when abnormal melanocytes grow in an uncontrolled way, with a third of all melanomas developing from existing moles, however they can also develop anywhere on the skin. This is why it is important to get regular skin checks.

95% of melanomas are caused by over exposure to UV radiation. Melanoma risk is increased for people who have:
- Unprotected sun exposure
- A history of tanning and sunburn, especially during childhood and adolescence
- Lots of moles
- Atypical moles
- Already had a skin cancer
- Fair skin, red hair, blue eyes or skin that burns easily
- A family history of melanoma, especially if they developed it at a young age (i.e. less than 40)
- Certain genetic variations that can be inherited in families

It is important to note that even though the above factors increase the risk of melanoma, that fact is it can affect anyone regardless of skin type, ethnicity, age or gender, especially if they have spent a lot of time in the sun.

To book your skin check call us on 08 8365 1157.

For more information or to donate visit MIA’s website https://melanoma.org.au/

Sources:
https://melanomamarch.org.au/cms/about
https://melanoma.org.au/about-melanoma/what-is-melanoma/

12/03/2026

From 13th – 20th March is Coeliac Awareness Week. During this week Coeliac Australia are encouraging Australians to look beyond the obvious and ask: could it be coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease affects thousands of Australians, around 1 in 70 - yet around 80% of them remain undiagnosed. This immune-based condition, triggered by gluten, damages the small intestine and causes systemic inflammation, leading to serious health complications if left untreated. It can develop in anybody and at any age. So, this coeliac awareness week, take a moment to educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of this disease to raise awareness and potentially help with early diagnosis.

Common symptoms of Coeliac disease in adults include:
- Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms e.g., diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, flatulence/gas, cramping, bloating, abdominal pain, steatorrhea.
- Prolonged fatigue, weakness or lethargy
- Iron deficiency anemia and/or other vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe or recurrent mouth ulcers
- Skin rashes such as dermatitis herpetiformis

Symptoms in children can differ, such as:
- Persistent, unexplained abdominal or gastrointestinal symptoms
- Nausea or vomiting, chronic abdominal pain, cramping or distension, chronic constipation
- Chronic or intermittent diarrhoea
- Faltering growth or failure to thrive
- Unexplained weight loss or stunted growth
- Delayed puberty or amenorrhoea
- Prolonged fatigue
- Dental enamel defects and/or mouth ulcers

If you are experiencing the symptoms above and are worried about changes you’ve noticed, please contact your GP to discuss these concerns. To learn more visit https://coeliac.org.au/get-involved/the-coeliac-australia-awareness-week/.

Source: https://coeliac.org.au/

The Coeliac Awareness Week campaign runs from March 13-20, and we're shining a light on the hidden truth about coeliac disease. This Coeliac Awareness Week, we’re spreading the facts, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, and supporting life-changing research.

28/02/2026

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. Endometriosis Australia is on a mission to raise awareness, advocate for change, educate, and fund crucial research to make a meaningful impact on the lives of over 1 million Australians living with endometriosis.

Endometriosis becomes present when tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus occurs outside this layer and in other parts of the body which causes pain and/or infertility. There are four stages/grades of endometriosis:
- Minimal (Stage I) – few patches of superficial lesions
- Mild (Stage/grade II) – small patches or surfaces lesions found in the pelvic area
- Moderate (Stage/grade III) – more widespread areas of disease often affecting one or both ovaries and tissue behind the uterus, sometimes with significant scarring and adhesions
- Severe (Stage/grade IV) – endometriosis affects most of the pelvic organs, often causing scarring and distorted anatomy

Endometriosis can affect everyone differently, common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Severe period pain that interferes with daily life
- Pain during ovulation
- Pain during or after s*x
- Pain when going to the toilet to pass urine or faeces
- Pain in your pelvic region, lower back or legs
- Difficulty holding on when you have a full bladder or having to go frequently
- Heavy bleeding or irregular bleeding

The average time for getting a diagnosis is 6.5yrs, so if you have any of the above symptoms, please discuss them with your doctor.

For more information about endometriosis or to donate visit Endometriosis Australia https://endometriosisaustralia.org/get-involved/

Source https://endometriosisaustralia.org/

Get involved with Endometriosis Australia. Donate, volunteer, fundraise and share your story to suppose those living with endometriosis.

14/02/2026

The 15th February marks International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) which is a global collaborative campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer, to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, and to promote an increased appreciation and deeper understanding of the challenges faced by children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors and their families.

Every year, more than 400,000 children and adolescents under 20, are diagnosed with cancer. The rate of survival depends on the region, with 80% survival in most high-income countries but as low as on 20% in low and middle-income countries.

The target goal of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Childhood Cancer Initiative is to eliminate all pain and suffering of children fighting cancer and achieve at least 60% survival for all children diagnosed with cancer around the world by 2030. This represents an approximate doubling of the current cure rate and will save an additional one million children’s lives over the next decade.

ICCD spotlights the need for more equitable access to treatment and care for all children with cancer, everywhere.

To donate or learn more, visit https: //internationalchildhoodcancerday.org/

International Childhood Cancer Day On February 15th International Childhood Cancer Day is a global collaborative campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors and their families.

10/02/2026

REDFEB is Heart Research Australia’s annual campaign held every February to raise awareness and funds for life-saving heart research. Every 10 minutes, an Australian has a heart attack, and its impact is still felt long after the actual event for many of their loved ones.

Heart disease is Australia’s leading single cause of death, with 18,590 deaths attributed to heart disease in Australia in 2017. Heart disease kills one Australian every 28 minutes, but what is heart disease?

Heart disease is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affect your heart which include blood vessel diseases, such as coronary artery disease; heart rhythm problems; and heart defects you’re born with, among others.

The term ‘heart disease’ is often used interchangeable with the term ‘cardiovascular disease’. Cardiovascular disease generally refers to conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, check pain or stroke. Other heart conditions, such as those that affect your hearts muscle, valves or rhythm, are also considered forms of heart disease.

Risks of heart disease you can control
• Smoking
• Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure
• Being inactive
• Diabetes
• Being overweight
• Unhealthy diet

Keeping your heart healthy, whatever your age, is the most important thing you can do to help prevent and manage heart disease. By making some lifestyle changes you can minimise your risk of getting cardiovascular disease and preventing heart disease. Follow the 4M’s framework which is designed to address these risks through simple, everyday actions that significantly impact our future health- particularly heart and vascular health.

Move- Keep moving at any age and at any fitness level.
Exercise has many benefits beyond simple fitness and flexibility. It stimulates the bodies immune system, reduces blood thickening so it clots less easily, improves brain function and lowers blood pressure. Participating in strength training and keeping our physical fitness levels up helps to ward off fragility, strengthen independence and helps to build good health later in life. This has a significant impact on our state of mental welling

Meals- Focus on eating mindfully and intelligently.
Embracing balance and moderation in your diet whilst understanding what you are eating is vital. Improved nutritional knowledge truly leads to improves health. Priorities a diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods over processed foods and make this the foundation of your diet.

Measurement- keep track of important health measurements.
This includes cholesterol levels, blood pressure, weight, blood sugar levels, waist circumference and exercise capacity. Regular check ups with your GP can help to keep track of and manage these measurements.

Mental Wellness- Priorities a positive mindset and nurture meaningful connections.
Many studies show your state of mind can protect, as well as damage heart health. Important risk factors that may lead to heart disease include stress, anger and depression. They can be as damaging as high cholesterol levels causing heart disease. Unaccustomed stress such as the loss of a family member can trigger heart attacks in an otherwise well individual. Conversely, a positive state of mind, a supportive community and personal happiness may help reduce the risk of a bad cardiovascular event. Positive social connection is crucial for everyone, particularly as we age. Additionally, practicing mindfulness, managing stress and engaging in activities that challenge and stimulate your brain, all play an essential role in maintaining mental and cognitive health.

In summary, Movement and exercise, intelligent choice of meals, measurement of key health indicators and mental wellness through prioritizing a positive mindset and social connection form a concise and effective framework to managing heart health before and after serious illness, at any age.

Take this February to educate yourself about heart disease, evaluate your own risk factors and make healthy changes for yourself and your families. Learn more at https://heartresearch.com.au/ or book in with your GP to discuss any potential concerns.

Source: https://www.redfeb.heartresearch.com.au/

31/01/2026

February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA)’s priorities this month are to:

1. Educate. OCA will continue to spread evidence-based information every Australian should know about ovarian cancer. Currently, only 31% of Australians know that ovarian cancer has the poorest survival rate of any female cancer in Australia, with this devastating disease suffering from a lack of awareness and progress.

2. Advocate on behalf of those impacted by ovarian cancer for more research funding, policy reform, greater access to affordable treatment options and ultimately better outcomes for all those affected.

3. Elevate the voices of women impacted by ovarian cancer by sharing their stories, their real-life experiences and getting these stories in front of as many eyes and ears as possible.

So, what is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a general term used to describe a cancerous (malignant) tumour which can start in one or both ovaries. The ovaries are made up of three main cells; epithelial, stromal, and germ cells, each of these can develop into a different type of tumour. Ovarian cancer is mainly diagnosed in women over 50, with the average age of diagnosis being 64, however, there are cases diagnosed in younger women.

OCA states that about 1532 Australian women are diagnosed each year, with ovarian cancer being the 8th most common cancer in Australia.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and often difficult to diagnose, however the most commonly reported symptoms are:
- Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating
- Abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain
- Feeling full after eating a small amount
- Needing to urinate often or urgently
Additional symptoms may include:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Excessive fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Indigestion or nausea
- Bleeding after menopause or in-between period
- Pain during s*x or bleeding after

It is very important you see your GP if you have any of the symptoms listed above that persist. Whilst many of these symptoms can be caused by other much less serious medical conditions, it is best to get checked. The earlier a cancer is found the more success there will be in treating it.

OCA are calling on the community to wear teal ribbons for the month of February and in doing so, will start conversations that can change lives, increase awareness and help raise funds to support people affected by ovarian cancer. For more information and to purchase your teal ribbon, visit https://shop.ovariancancer.net.au/collections/turn-february-teal

Sources:
https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/get-involved/ovarian-cancer-awareness-month
https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/about-ovarian-cancer/understanding-ovarian-cancer

31/12/2025

Happy New Year to everyone from the Tranmere Village Medical Centre team. We hope you all have a fantastic year ahead and enjoy 2026 as much as we all enjoyed 2025.

We will be back resuming normal operating hours from Monday 5th January 8am.

If you require help during this closure period, please contact 13 SICK or your local emergency department.

Look forward to seeing everyone throughout the year!

24/12/2025

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from everyone here at Tranmere Village Medical Centre! We hope everyone has a fantastic day and enjoys their time with family and friends.

Stay safe over the holiday period and we look forward to seeing you next year!

If you require medical attention during our closure period, please contact 13 SICK or your local emergency department.

01/12/2025

2025 is coming to an end, and December marks the start of a very busy season for everyone!

As Tranmere Village Medical Centre will be closing at 1pm on Christmas Eve and will remain closed until 5th January 8am, please take some time to ensure you are prepared for this closure by checking yours scripts are valid, your referrals are in date and you are all sorted until the new year.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call us on 8365 1157 to speak to our friendly reception staff.

15/11/2025

16th-22nd of November is National Skin Cancer Action Week. This year the focus is on combatting Australia’s ‘National Cancer’. This week is dedicated to encouraging all Australians to make sun protection a daily habit to protect their skin from UV exposure and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

Often called our ‘National Cancer’, Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Approximately two in three Australian will be diagnoses with skin cancer in their lifetime. When exposed to UV radiation, it doesn’t take long for skin damage including sunburn to occur, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. In fact, over-exposure to UV radiation causes up to 95% of melanomas.

Fortunately, skin cancer is almost entirely preventable! An easy way to ensure you’re protecting your skin from UV exposure is by making sun protection a daily habit. Don’t let your skin get caught off guard by UV exposure. You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by using all 5 forms of sun protection when the UV level is 3 or above:
- Slip on sun protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible
- Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+, Broad-spectrum, and water-resistant sunscreen. Apply it 20 minutes before going outdoors and re-apply every 2 hours.
- Slap on a hat- Broad Brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
- Seek shade when possible
- Slide on sunglasses- make sure they meet Australian Standards.

It’s important to get to know your skin and what normal looks like for you, if you notice any changes in the size, shape or colour of an existing spot, or the development of a new spot. If you notice any spots that look abnormal, or have changed, it is important to have it check by your doctor.

Tranmere Village Medical Centre offers full body skin checks and monitoring for potential skin cancers. If you are interested in booking a skin check, please ring reception on 8365 1157 for more details.

To learn more about skin cancer and UV protection, please visit https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/campaigns-and-events/national-skin-cancer-action-week

06/11/2025

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Every year, Shine a Light on Lung Cancer supported by the Lung Foundation Australia, brings Australians together to raise awareness and funds for life-changing lung cancer research and support. The annual observance is dedicated to increasing awareness about lung cancer, its risk factors, early detection, and treatment options.

In Australia, more that 15,122 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer this year- that’s 41 every day! Almost 85% will be diagnosed at late stage, making it Australia’s most devastating cancer. Raising awareness and early detection is essential to effective treatment.

Most lung cancers do not cause symptoms in the early stages, until they have spread, the most common symptoms of lung cancer are:
- Coughing up blood
- A new or changed cough that doesn’t go away
- Chest pain and/or shoulder pain or discomfort- the pain may be worse with coughing or deep breathing
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Trouble swallowing
- Hoarse voice
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Chest infection that doesn’t go away
- Tiredness or weakness

Many conditions can cause these symptoms, not just lung cancer. Anyone can get lung cancer, even if they have never smoked. If you have any of these symptoms and they are persistent, talk to your doctor.

There are simple things you can do to reduce your odds of developing lung cancer, the most important being quitting/refraining from smoking ci******es, ci**rs, pipes and vapes.

Other risk factors include;
- Second-hand smoke
- Family history
- HIV infection
- Environmental risk actors
- Beta carotene supplements in heavy smokers

For more information about prevention, diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer, please visit https://lungfoundation.com.au/