World Media Roundup – 19 August 2014

Cancer screenings common among older, sick Americans

US – Reuters

Despite potential risks and limited benefits, many Americans are still screened for cancers toward the end of their lives, according to a new study.

Doctors fear turning off a patient’s pacemaker risks murder charge

Australia – The Sidney Morning Herald

Doctors are calling for Australians with pacemakers to write clear instructions about the circumstances in which they would like them switched off in case they want doctors to help them die at some point in the future.

Opioid painkillers to get stronger warning labels, Health Minister says

Canada – CBC News

The federal government is putting stronger warning labels on extended-release painkillers like OxyContin in an effort to prevent the abuse of opioids.

Cancer survivor: “take the first step and let it unfold”

The Telegraph

Grieg Trout, double cancer survivor and founder of ideas website ‘101 Things to Do When You Survive’, is determined to shine an inspiring light.

Fighting terminal cancer with life

Huffington Post

“As patients, we need to be realistic about what we actually need saving from. Does months of sickness in hopes of a miracle outweigh a peaceful, beautiful time spent with family and friends and love?”

Why death is so important in young adult fiction

The Guardian

Should adults be concerned about how much death appears in teen books? Not at all, argues YA author Rupert Wallis, in fact, they could learn a lot about life and death by reading them too.

Meeting the palliative care needs of different cultures in rural Australia

ehospice Australia

Savana Agustine is undertaking a doctorate that explores the provision and understanding of palliative care among culturally and linguistically diverse communities in rural Australia.