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Each week, Radio Health Journal breaks down important news in medicine, science and technology with the help of world-renowned experts. Our three weekly segments will help guide you to a happier, healthier life – with some fun facts to share at dinner parties. Can magic mushrooms cure your depression? Have we outrun natural selection? Hosted by Elizabeth Westfield, Greg Johnson and Maayan Voss de Bettancourt and produced by Kristen Farrah and Amirah Zaveri. New shows posted each Sunday by 5 ...
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We’re all born with a special gene that’s job is to seek out and destroy cancer cells. But when some people are born with a mutated version, it lets cancer run rampant throughout the body – sometimes even helping tumors spread. Lawrence Ingrassia details his family’s battle with this mutation and the tragedies left in its wake. Learn More: https://…
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Have you been feeling stuck in your career or personal life? Though it can take some time and effort, it’s possible to rewire our brains for the better. Dr. Greg Hammer, author of Gain Without Pain, reveals the best tricks to form healthier habits that’ll lead to more happiness and success. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/how-to-rewire-y…
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Why is there a care gap for dementia patients? Is sunlight good for your nose? Will America soon be facing a population shortage? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-vitamin-d-can-fight-your-allergies-americas-impending-population-shortage-and-the-care-disparity-with-dementia-patients Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
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There’s a primary care shortage and it’s only expected to worsen in coming years. Some experts have proposed using non-physician practitioners as a substitute to fill the gap. And though it may sound promising, our expert explains why this will only worsen physician burnout, patient health outcomes, and medical debt. Learn More: https://radiohealth…
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Genetic genealogy has completely changed how law enforcement catches criminals. Cold cases can now be solved by a genetic match to the perpetrator’s sibling, parent or distant relative. Our experts explain the revolutionary technology and how you can help catch these violent criminals. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/genetic-justice-how-…
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How the environment affects brain health. Will science ever move away from animal testing? Should you skip your afternoon nap? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-best-place-to-live-for-your-brain-health-reducing-animal-testing-and-why-you-should-skip-your-afternoon-nap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/a…
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Healthcare professionals across the nation have been applauding television’s new medical drama, The Pitt, for its accurate portrayal of medicine. Dr. Sylvia Owusu-Ansah explains why this accuracy is so important and how it could help strengthen patient-doctor relationships. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-pitt-how-a-television-medica…
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This week, our experts dive into the hard facts of healthcare’s internal biases against women’s pain. Across all age groups and pain levels, women are given less medication for their pain than men. Our experts explain their research and why they believe this bias exists. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/hysterical-and-exaggerated-how-wome…
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Would you take a cancer vaccine? Your humidifier could be making you sick. Is global warming bad for your gut? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-your-humidifier-is-making-you-sick-global-warming-is-messing-up-your-gut-and-do-cancer-vaccines-work Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…
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Sleep quality is a huge determinant of our health, but it’s not always an easy benchmark to achieve – especially for patients with cancer or chronic illnesses. Our experts this week have created an app that monitors a user’s circadian rhythm, then offers feedback throughout the day to optimize their sleep quality. Learn More: https://radiohealthjou…
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We’ve long trusted the FDA to protect public health, but is this safeguard wavering? Our expert this week explains why premarket review isn’t as effective as it once was, how corporations have leveraged loopholes to skirt around regulations, and how the agency can get back on track. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/the-fda-is-failing-here…
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Overcoming obstacles doesn’t always make you stronger. Mosquitoes may soon be scared of humans. Trees do more for your health than simply provide oxygen. Is soup good for pregnancy? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-human-blood-can-poison-mosquitoes-why-soup-is-good-for-pregnancy-and-how-trees-keep-communities-healthy Learn m…
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Motherhood is often touted as the most rewarding part of life – and while that may be true in some cases, there are many other feelings associated with this experience. Though many women feel they must push any negative feelings down, our expert explains why moms should embrace all emotions, from love to resentment. Learn More: https://radiohealthj…
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The FDA is the linchpin in American society keeping us safe, but many things slip through the cracks since the agency is underfunded and understaffed. Daniel Aaron, an FDA researcher, explains the main hurdles the agency faces and how these obstacles put consumers at risk. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/user-fees-and-presidential-intrus…
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You may want to rethink watching that new horror film. Despite the recent devastation of fires in California, these natural disasters are still on a downward trend. Microplastics may be worsening antibiotic resistance. Concerts are fun, but the real benefits of music happen when you’re alone. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes…
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With summer fast approaching, it’s more important than ever to understand the dangers of leaving your kids in a hot car. Even temperatures in the 50s can be a major risk to a child under three years old. Our experts explain a memory failure that leads even the best of parents to forget their baby in the backseat. Learn More: https://radiohealthjour…
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Despite the fact that we’re on pace to have less plane crashes in 2025 compared to recent years, flight anxiety is on the rise. Our expert this week explains how to recognize anxiety and offers different strategies to use for your next trip in the sky. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/tranquil-travel-how-to-get-rid-of-your-flight-anxiety …
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Being a living donor is a major decision, but one that can save a life. For Mike O’Gorman, it was a no-brainer to help his brother who needed a new kidney. However, there were various obstacles he never anticipated. Our guests explain the donation process and the physical and mental challenges many face. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/m…
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Ultra-processed foods have become a major part of the average American diet. Unfortunately, these products have been linked to various health concerns and don’t include many of the nutrients we need. Our experts explain how you can balance your diet and stay healthy in an increasingly unhealthy world. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/ultr…
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Polluted air is killing our children. Microplastics may be worsening antibiotic resistance. It’s not too late to improve your brain health. Do hotter days reduce birthrates? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-best-age-to-prevent-brain-decline-lead-is-leaching-into-our-air-and-how-hotter-days-reduce-birth-rates Learn more a…
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It may be time to re-start your New Years resolution. The biological factor that’s making you infertile. Do opposites attract? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-you-should-date-someone-whos-nice-the-biological-cause-of-infertility-and-why-spring-goals-are-more-successful Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f…
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Cervical cancer detection often involves the use of a speculum. However, not only is this device often uncomfortable, it’s also a main reason for why women with disabilities skip the test altogether. Dr. Diane Harper proposes a new, FDA-approved screening method that’s proven to reduce cases of cervical cancer more than standard practices. Learn Mo…
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High demand, high control groups can be both positive and negative, and describe many different populations from the military to infamous cults. Experiencing the negative side of these groups can lead to trauma and abuse. Our experts discuss their time in high demand, high control groups and how they were able to heal from these experiences. Learn …
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Artificial intelligence can predict fatal heart attacks. A lack of patient diversity in Alzheimer's research threatens accurate diagnosing in people of color. As the temperature rises, so do emergency room visits. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-ai-is-preventing-heart-attacks-why-alzheimers-research-needs-more-patient-d…
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The healthcare industry may seem complex, but our experts this week are pulling back the curtain and revealing how innovations truly come to life. They discuss how the goals of this trade have evolved, what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur, and how consumers will be playing a bigger role in product development. Learn More: https://radioheal…
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The speculum has been used for centuries, but unlike other ancient medical tools, it hasn’t had any major updates to its design. However, this instrument may soon be unnecessary for many women with the new approval of self-administered HPV tests. Dr. Diane Harper explains why this is a major step forward for women’s healthcare and the importance of…
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How are psychedelic mushrooms related to mental health? Earth’s natural coasts are disappearing. Do mosquitoes care about your fashion sense? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/magic-mushrooms-can-relieve-depression-how-to-avoid-wearing-a-mosquitos-favorite-color-and-why-earths-coasts-are-disappearing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
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Last week we discussed the dangers astronauts face when going on missions. This week, Dr. Joshua Ong, a space medicine researcher, explains the cutting-edge technology that’s being used to hopefully save astronauts’ eyesight, and how these advancements will help underserved patients on Earth. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/space-medicin…
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Lasik eye surgery has been life-changing for millions. However, there are a select few who have been left irreversibly disabled by the procedure. Our experts describe the qualities of a good Lasik candidate, the very real risks that come with the surgery, and an alternative option for those unable to get Lasik. Learn More: https://radiohealthjourna…
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Bacteria could be a key player in the fight against plastic. As more states legalize cannabis, you should know how it affects your health. Does gender affect how we complete our goals? Should women date more for the good of their health? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-smoking-weed-may-be-causing-your-cavities-a-bacteria-th…
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Despite all the progress made for women’s rights, the medical field continues to lag behind when it comes to female research. Because of this, half of the population is left in the dark about how to properly care for their bodies and the dangers they’re at risk for. Our experts explain the importance of researching women’s health. Learn More: https…
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The breaking-edge technology NASA’s creating for space travel has positively impacted so many lives back on earth. Dr. Joshua Ong, a space medicine researcher, is now hoping to add to that beneficial list with his work on improving astronauts’ eyesight. He explains the conditions they’re most at risk for and how finding a solution for space travel …
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Your monthly haircut may be more dangerous than you think. Is one gender chattier than the other? How to tell if your sore throat is something more serious. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-revealing-the-chattier-gender-the-hidden-dangers-of-your-hair-salon-and-the-difference-between-a-sore-throat-and-strep Learn more about …
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Research is showing how useful a fasting-mimicking diet can be in fighting cancer. It not only weakens the tumor, but it also makes chemotherapy and immunotherapy less toxic for the patient. Our expert breaks down the benefits of FMD and how it enhances current cancer treatments. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/how-to-use-fasting-in-the-…
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Prenatal genetic testing can make parents aware of any anomalies or genetic diseases their unborn child has. Knowing this information before the baby is born can give parents a head start on understanding their child’s condition and finding proper resources. Our experts explain the role of genetic counseling and why it’s an important tool for paren…
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Can more screen time ease anxiety? Is crying a sign of more than just sadness? Have you been feeling out of sorts? Yes, vacation is necessary for your health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-hidden-message-behind-your-tears-why-vacation-is-necessary-for-your-health-and-using-vr-to-fight-anxiety Learn more about your ad …
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Our body temperature is currently too hot for fungus to thrive in – which is why we don’t often have to worry about a serious fungal infection. However, global warming is forcing fungi to evolve to withstand hotter temperatures, which could be bad news for humanity. Dr. Arturo Casadevall explains what a future fungal pandemic might look like. Learn…
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Outdoor activities have been shown to be an important part of disease prevention and successful aging. And though there are some obstacles for older adults, there are ways to adjust the activities to fit all skill levels. Our experts explain the benefits to prioritizing outdoor-based interventions and group activities. Learn More: https://radioheal…
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How can you tell if your sniffles are just allergies or something worse? Should men be living in colder climates? The medical field is helping to increase access to clean water. Your smart watch may not be as great for your health as you thought. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-hopeful-fathers-should-live-in-cold-weathe…
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Even though opioids are highly addictive, they continue to be prescribed because they’re thought of as the best option for pain management. However, that’s not always the case. Dr. Cecile Feldman explains new research that shows how over-the-counter medication is more effective in some cases – and how this revelation is changing prescribing practic…
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Are you chronically bloated, feeling weighed down, or haven’t been as energetic lately? It’s possible that it’s a product of neglecting your gut microbiome. Dr. Robynne Chutkan explains the important role our microbiome plays in our physical and mental health -- and how you can heal your gut to put yourself back on track. Learn More: https://radioh…
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Is another global pandemic on the horizon? Antibodies aren’t just a protection from disease. Chemotherapy is tough on the body, but magnets could help. Being cynical is bad for your health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-why-being-cynical-is-bad-for-your-health-how-fungi-may-soon-take-over-and-increasing-the-effectiveness-…
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As mental health becomes a bigger topic of conversation in society, it makes sense that an entire digital industry has been built around it. Online therapy has become the new normal for many Americans, but such a saturated market means that consumers can’t trust every product. Dr. Stephanie Collier explains the value of digital therapy programs and…
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Since funding is necessary for scientific research, it’s not uncommon for private companies to be financially involved in studies. However, Susan Greenhalgh breaks down Coca-Cola’s intimate relationship with nutrition research, revealing the need for more third-party oversight in this area. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/soda-science-ho…
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Your bad mood is probably connected to your sleep. Need surgery? Over-the-counter medication may be your best option for pain management. The hidden risks of kidney disease. Shortened winter days may be better for our health. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-the-drug-that-outperforms-opioids-for-pain-management-the-hidden-da…
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Though lead pipes were outlawed in 1986, the EPA estimates that more than nine million lead service lines still distribute water across America. And though many people believe treatment plants are enough to keep our drinking water safe, the Flint water crisis proved this very wrong. Sara Hughes explains how this city’s contamination in 2014 has cha…
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Being selfish is often seen as a bad characteristic, but our experts say it may be one of the most compassionate things you can do for yourself. Boundary setting is one example of a tool that can be utilized to improve your overall life. This week, our experts challenge everything you thought you knew about being selfish. Learn More: https://radioh…
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AI is the future, but is it worth the health risks? Can an eye doctor spot mental health issues? Do you have dry skin? Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medical-notes-how-ai-is-ruining-the-environment-the-secret-to-battling-dry-skin-and-can-an-eye-test-diagnose-mental-health-disorders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad…
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Larry Baden has spent the last few years getting comfortable with dying. After being diagnosed with multiple systems atrophy (MSA), a rare and terminal brain disease, his body’s been progressively deteriorating. But as death becomes a bigger theme in his life, it seems to be the only topic people refuse to discuss with him. In a one-on-one sit-down…
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Women used to be the main providers of medicinal remedies, so when did everything change? Why do we now take a trip to the pharmacy instead of across the street to a neighbor? Karen Bloom Gevirtz explains the historical role women played in healing and how they were pushed out of medicine. Learn More: https://radiohealthjournal.org/medicine-is-a-wo…
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