Dr. Smita Samuelraj

06/04/2026

https://www.strong-ms.org/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARAukZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe6Ip6KYdniio1BEA91niKz0z44nFDYNwqc3ZbScXXkBM0SN5Ca0HQWLM_8d0_aem_Zf4G-_4MX12ocXYQEMcqNg

For people living with multiple sclerosis

STRONG-MS is a research study investigating the effectiveness, acceptability and feasibility of ONERO™ in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This is a High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training program designed to improve bone health and muscle strength.

08/03/2026

In 2024, 322 women and 156 men died from asthma in Australia. That means women are dying from asthma at more than twice the rate of men.

No death from asthma is acceptable, and this gender gap isn't new. Older women, in particular, remain at greater risk of severe outcomes, yet asthma care and funding often fail to reflect that.

We need a stronger national focus on prevention, improved access to medicines, and targeted support for the communities most impacted. Because asthma is not just a nuisance - it can be deadly.

17/01/2026

Sunday Appointments Now Available

To help make appointments easier to fit around busy weeks, I’ll be offering Sunday morning appointments from 1 February 2026.

🕗 Sundays | 8:00 am – 12:00 noon

📅 Book online via HotDoc:
https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/duncraig-WA-6023/duncraig-medical-centre/doctors/dr-smita-samuelraj-4

📞 Or call Duncraig Medical Centre on (08) 9246 9922

I hope this extra availability helps improve access and flexibility for patients who find weekdays difficult. I look forward to seeing you on Sundays.

Please note there is no nurse available on weekends

Dr Smita Samuelraj

09/01/2026

Sharing this useful post about oral iron supplements

At Duncraig medical centre we also offer iron infusions for people who prefer them

what tablets do I take?
The main ingredient for an iron tablet is Iron sulphate / gluconate / fumarate / bisglycinate. These are termed 'iron salts' and there is no real difference between them. These ingredients are the basis of most iron tablets or liquids - the rest is marketing.

What dose?
The important bit: - its all about the amount of 'elemental iron' i.e. the dose:
If a 200mg tablet, you need to read the ingredients on the back to see the actual 'dose' of 'elemental iron it may be the dose is 65mg. The table here is very helpful.
Note there is a LOT of marketing but in reality little if any difference in the tablets, those promoting 'haem' iron professes better absorption but in reality when tested in clinical trials no benefit has been shown. So go with the well proven tablets - below.

WHAT DO YOU NEED
If your ferritin < 30 then you are 1000mg behind on iron in the body.
Treatment is 50-100mg elemental iron once a day. Most people tolerate this dose and one tablet a day is enough. The problem is that you only absorb about 10% of the dose so about 6-10mg per day - about 200mg -250mg per month. So you need a minimum of 6 months to get replenished (1000mg +)

If you do get side effects then stop for a few days then try half the dose or a tablet alternative days. Overall, while there may more absorbed per day as you are only taking half the dose the absorption per month is 150-200mg.

Struggling to find which iron tablets to choose? Checkout the information from Lifeblood Australia

31/12/2025

As we come to the end of another year, I’ve been taking a moment to reflect on the past 12 months. It has been a year filled with meaningful conversations, shared challenges, small wins, and the privilege of walking alongside so many of you on your health journeys.

I want to sincerely thank my patients and families for the trust you place in me and in our practice. Your openness, resilience, and commitment to your wellbeing continue to inspire me every day. It is truly a privilege to be part of your care.

To my colleagues and the wider healthcare team, thank you for your support, teamwork, and dedication throughout the year.

As we look ahead to 2026, I wish you and your loved ones a year filled with good health, balance, and moments that matter. May the new year bring fresh energy, hope, and opportunities to prioritise what’s important to you.

Warm wishes,
Dr Smita Samuelraj