How are health conditions categorised?
Hi all
So why did a couple of conditions appear in yesterday's list more than once? This is because of the way health conditions get categorised. This is in fact a very complicated subject, but I just want to illustrate a couple of examples of why health language can be so confusing.
A disease can be categorised by what causes it: The term autoimmune means the body's own defences destroy its own cells. Type 1 diabetes melitus (T1DM) was in our list, and it occurs when the beta cells in the pancreas are mistakingly destroyed by immune cells. T1DM can be said to be an autoimmune disease.
A disease can be categorised by the system that is affected: Because beta cells produce a hormone called insulin, and the system that regulates hormones is called the endocrine system, T1DM can be said to be an endocrine disorder.
Diseases are categorised in a lot of other ways too, but cause and system are the most common, especially for LTCs. Essentially, all these categories are just a way for health professionals to be as specific and accurate as possible; but it can sometimes seem as though there are a dozen different names for the same thing. You'll be pleased to know we won't teach you all these terms on a My Health myself course, but we will show you some ways you can help your health professional communicate more effectively with you.
Take care every one
Gavin
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
-
59.9% Yes, supporting people is important!
-
25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
-
14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Loading…
