Lung Cancer will cost the Australian Economy $6.6 billion by 2028

A report released by the Lung Foundation Australia predicted Lung Cancer will cost the Australian economy more than 6.6 billion dollars by 2028 if changes aren’t made to the way the disease and patients are treated. 

More than 9000 people died from the disease last year- making it the number one cause of cancer death in the country. 

The report made six recommendations including an increase in lung cancer specialists, a public awareness campaign to reduce stigma around the disease and more psychosocial support for those who have been diagnosed.
 

Japanese journalist held hostage in Syria ‘freed’

Japan’s government said freelance journalist Jumpei Yasuda held hostage in Syria for the past three years has been freed and is reportedly staying at an immigration facility in the Turkish city of Antakya.

Mr Yasuda went missing in June 2015 after travelling from Turkey to Syria to report on the country’s civil war and was reportedly held hostage by a group linked to al-Qeada.

The Japan Times reported that the group had demanded a $10m ransom for Mr Yasuda which the Government refused to pay. 

South Koreans face cannabis criminal charges

South Koreans who use cannabis while in Canada could face criminal charges when they return to their home country, warn Korean police.

An official from South Korea’s narcotics unit said violators will be punished according to the Korean law and could face up to five years in prison.

The South Korean government put a warning out the day before Canada legalised marijuana.