Critically Speaking
On each episode of Critically Speaking, your host, Dr. Therese Markow, interviews foremost experts in a range of fields. We discuss, in everyday language that we all can understand, fundamental issues that impact our health, our society, and our planet. Join our weekly journey where we separate fact from fantasy for topics both current and controversial.
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Dr. Chris Beyrer: Cuts to USAID Harm the Health and Prosperity of US Citizens
06/03/2025
Dr. Chris Beyrer: Cuts to USAID Harm the Health and Prosperity of US Citizens
The opinions expressed by Dr. Beyrer are his own and not those of his employer. In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Chris Beyrer discuss the importance of USAID, highlighting its role in global health and development, particularly through programs like PEPFAR, which has saved 25 million lives and prevented millions of HIV infections. Dr. Beyrer emphasizes that the economic and security benefits of USAID, whose support amounts to less than 1% of the total US federal budget, have had important benefits at home in the United States. It protects us from infectious diseases like Ebola and MPOX. Cuts to USAID could lead to a resurgence of HIV, polio, malaria, and other diseases. Finally, Dr. Beyrer advocates for listeners to become informed, to understand what is happening, and to engage in their citizenship rights for the benefit of all. Key Takeaways: By law, USAID was only allowed to buy food from US farmers, but stopping USAID has thrown farmers into crisis due to the unstable purchasing now. Until January 20, 2025, USAID was supporting about 21 million people worldwide on antiviral therapy. It was also one of the biggest funders and supporters of HIV prevention because treatment is not enough - you must reduce new infections to get out from under the treatment burden. The only group right now that we are supporting PrEP for is pregnant or lactating, breastfeeding mothers who are at risk for HIV. Everybody else who is on PrEP has been abruptly halted. 2025 could be the year that we see the beginning of the second wave of the AIDS pandemic. "These programs really save lives. They have saved millions of lives. We know that; we've documented it carefully. It is so important to be informed, to stay informed, to understand what is happening, and really to engage. Now, more than ever, engage in your citizenship rights." — Dr. Chris Beyrer Connect with Dr. Chris Beyrer: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Adam Berinsky: Political Rumors and Misinformation
05/27/2025
Dr. Adam Berinsky: Political Rumors and Misinformation
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Adam Berinsky discuss political rumors and misinformation. Dr. Berinsky defines rumors as unsubstantiated claims without evidence, emphasizing their social transmission. He identifies two factors influencing rumor belief: conspiratorial thinking and partisan polarization. Berinsky's research reveals that while some people firmly believe rumors, others are ambivalent and more open to correction. He suggests focusing on these undecided individuals rather than entrenched believers. Berinsky also highlights the role of political leaders in spreading misinformation and the need for creative messaging to counteract it. Key Takeaways: Political rumors (or misinformation) are claims that are unsubstantiated by the balance of publicly available information. Republicans and Democrats are equally (or very nearly) likely to believe different pieces of misinformation that they're presented with. Currently, Republican politicians are more likely to spread misinformation. The more attention you pay to politics, the more likely you are to listen to people on your side. Better-educated and more informed people should be more likely to reject misinformation, but what we find is that actually, they're more attuned to the partisan angle of that information. "Maybe our effort is better spent on trying to get these people who are not sure where they stand, because those are the people that we can move." — Dr. Adam Berinsky Connect with Dr. Adam Berinsky: Professional Bio: Website: Book: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: BlueSky: @CriticallySpeaking.bsky.social Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Near Death Experiences
05/20/2025
Near Death Experiences
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. James Alcock discuss what near-death experiences are and the increase in them in recent years due to improvements in medical technology. While near-death experiences (NDEs) have been known about for a long time, we, as a scientific community, are starting to understand more about what they mean for neurological processes. However, despite knowing the science of what is happening, NDEs and how they are experienced are subject to one’s own beliefs, context, and even religious framework. Dr. Alcock and Therese also discuss the relationship between near-death experiences, hallucinations, and even reactions to various drugs and how they create powerful subjective experiences. Key Takeaways: In surveys taken in the United States, about 3% of people have reported having near-death experiences. This number can be difficult to assess as they are based on memory and the surveys are taken, sometimes years after the incident in question. It is difficult to prove near-death experiences in research studies due to the subjectivity of what is being perceived. Even with the science that we do know, those who have near-death experiences (including neurologists who have studied the brain) report the reality of the feelings and perceptions that are felt in these experiences. "Context is important. Our interpretation is important. And it's very difficult, if not impossible, for any individual to distinguish between reality and subjective fantasies in those situations." — Dr. James Alcock Connect with Dr. James Alcock: Wikipedia Page: Book: Magazine: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Deborah Lang: What is Skin Cancer?
05/13/2025
Dr. Deborah Lang: What is Skin Cancer?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Deborah Lang discuss the rise of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, and its causes. Dr. Lang explains that skin cancers are derived from different skin cells: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both linked to UV exposure, and melanoma, which can be UV-independent and linked to genetic susceptibility. Dr. Lang emphasizes the importance of early detection and personalized medicine, noting that melanoma can metastasize early. She also highlights the role of genetic mutations in cancer development and the impact of funding cuts on cancer research. Key Takeaways: There are three major types of skin cancer. About 80% are basal cell carcinomas. Because we are living longer, we have an increased chance of cancer. However, other reasons for increased skin cancer include increased UV exposure and tanning beds. We are all born with moles, but if you notice a change or have a lot (such as over 100), it is worth getting them checked out. Between 5 and 25 minutes of sun exposure per day is enough for your vitamin D production (less for lighter skin). However, sunlight has other benefits for your health and circadian rhythm. "Melanomas are derived from a different type of cell - from cells that produce pigment called melanocytes. While this type of cancer is much rarer than basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, it is the most lethal type of skin cancer." — Dr. Deborah Lang Episode References: NIH: American Cancer Society: Leo Foundation: Connect with Dr. Deborah Lang: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: ResearchGate: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Anice Lowen: Bird Flu - Should We Worry?
05/06/2025
Dr. Anice Lowen: Bird Flu - Should We Worry?
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Anice Lowen discuss the bird flu outbreak, highlighting the virus’s spread from birds to dairy cattle and recorded cases of human infection. Dr. Lowen explains the differences between influenza A and influenza B viruses, talks about which type causes pandemics, and what we can do to try to prevent future pandemics from these flu strains. Key Takeaways: An epidemic affects a specific region, a pandemic is global. Only Influenza A viruses can cause pandemics and are often transmitted via birds and mammals. Humans can become infected with viruses from animals only if we are exposed to those animals. Flu epidemics happen every winter due to the circulation of influenza A and B viruses. Pandemics happen sporadically, the last four were well documented in 1918, 1957, 1968, and 2009. Bird flu can become serious if human to another. So monitoring is critical. "Viruses circulating in these domestic animals actually present the greatest pandemic risk simply because humans are exposed to those animals more than they are to wild animals." — Dr. Anice Lowen Connect with Dr. Anice Lowen: Professional Bio: Website: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Joshua Weitz: Asymptomatic COVID-19 Spreaders
04/29/2025
Dr. Joshua Weitz: Asymptomatic COVID-19 Spreaders
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Joshua Weitz discuss his book "Asymptomatic: The Silent Spread of COVID-19 and the Future of Pandemics" and his work in understanding the risk of COVID spread from as early as spring of 2020. He highlights the double-edged sword of asymptomatic infections, discusses what governments could do to help mitigate at-risk populations, and what we, as individuals, can do to help keep everyone safe. Dr. Weitz criticizes early predictions of COVID-19's disappearance by mid-2020, attributing the error to underestimated infections and behavioral changes. He emphasizes the importance of public health measures, vaccination, and testing, especially in vulnerable populations. Finally, Dr. Weitz talks about the role of asymptomatic transmission in future pandemics and the need for proactive public health investments. Key Takeaways: Not having symptoms doesn’t mean that you never had COVID-19. Nearly 50% of cases in early 2020 were asymptomatic (though that number varies by age). There was not one single group of modelers trying to make sense of the data coming out of the pandemic. As such, different projections can come out even from the same pandemic information. For infectious diseases, our behavior is correlated with the risk. COVID is not the flu. COVID is not gone, and we now have a double seasonal burden from both flu and COVID. If everyone is asymptomatic or it was always mild, we wouldn't worry. We wouldn't have stopped things or been so upset just by cases or infections; it was the severe ones and the number of severe cases that dictated the approach to control, as the transmission potential by asymptomatic individuals was not considered. "The double-edged sword is good news, in some sense, for individuals, but it's bad news for populations, because many more people can be infected. They're contagious and interact with more people. When we try to think from a public health perspective, not just a personal health perspective, then we have to be concerned." — Dr. Joshua Weitz Connect with Dr. Joshua Weitz: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Substack: Website: Book: Asymptomatic: The Silent Spread of COVID-19 and the Future of Pandemics Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Ajit Nirmal: Arms Race Against Cancer
04/22/2025
Dr. Ajit Nirmal: Arms Race Against Cancer
When we hear the term tumor or cancer, the image that often comes to mind is a bunch of bad cells next to normal ones, and growing. Like many things, it's just not that simple. How do the normal cells turn bad? Can our immune systems detect the cancer cell and kill it? Why does some initially successful chemotherapy stop working? Why does cancer spread? These are all great questions, since cancers of one kind or another will affect so many of us either as patients, friends, or loved ones. Well, basic science is providing some critical answers. In today’s episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Ajit Nirmal discuss just these questions. Key Takeaways: If we didn't have an immune system, we'd all get cancer. Drug resistance continues to be the principal limiting factor to achieving cures in patients with cancer. Once a normal cell has turned cancerous, it is likely dividing much faster than a normal cell. This rapid cell division is error-prone and can lead to the accumulation of mutations at a much faster rate. "I truly believe, with adequate basic understanding of the molecular underpinnings of cancer evolution, and how the tumor microenvironment helps it or promotes it, we will be able to predict the best course of action to target all cancer cells up until the very last one, and consequently to the patient." — Dr. Ajit Nirmal Connect with Dr. Ajit Nirmal: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Jodi Gilman: Cannabis and Your Brain
04/15/2025
Dr. Jodi Gilman: Cannabis and Your Brain
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Jodi Gilman discuss the implications of cannabis use on health and safety. Dr. Gilman explains that THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, affecting areas involved in emotion, memory, and decision-making. Cannabis use can lead to long-term brain alterations, particularly in adolescents, frequent users, and those using high-potency products. Dr. Gilman highlights the risks of cannabis-induced psychosis, depression, and anxiety, especially in those with a family history of psychosis. She also notes the lack of evidence for medical marijuana's efficacy and the challenges in detecting cannabis impairment. Key Takeaways: Edibles typically last longer than smoked or vaped cannabis, but it takes longer to feel the effects. It can take 30-60 minutes to reach the brain. The three things that make cannabis risky are the age you start to use cannabis, the frequency of use, and the potency of the product you are using. Those three factors increase the likelihood of long-term alterations on the brain, structurally and functionally. Cannabis is a psychoactive substance, like alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, and cocaine; it is addictive to some people. It is estimated that 1 in 5 people who use cannabis will become addicted. THC impairs attention, it impairs coordination, and it impairs reaction time - all of these are critical for driving. THC is thought to double the risk of a crash. "People think cannabis is safe, like bubble gum. It’s not bubble gum. It's a psychoactive compound that affects your brain, and you really need to be cautious about these products." — Dr. Jodi Gilman Connect with Dr. Jodi Gilman: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Robert Meade: Health Dangers from Rising Heat
04/08/2025
Dr. Robert Meade: Health Dangers from Rising Heat
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Robert Meade, an expert in thermal physiology, discuss the dangers posed to human health by the rising heat. Dr Meade explains that extreme heat is a combination of air temperature and humidity, which can strain the body's ability to regulate temperature. He notes that older adults and women may be more vulnerable to heat stress due to reduced sweating and cardiovascular function. They talk about the differences between heat stress and heat stroke and how to identify symptoms to keep an eye on if you are in a hot environment. The discussion highlights the challenges of accurately measuring heat-related deaths and the importance of adaptive strategies, such as cool roofs and reflective pavements, to mitigate heat stress. Dr. Meade also mentions an ongoing study in India on the heat stress experienced by informal workers. Key Takeaways: Heat stress is more than just temperature and humidity. Activity, clothing, location, and anything else that impedes and impacts the body can change the level of heat stress. What constitutes extreme heat will vary from person to person. Evaporative cooling is impacted by humidity - it's much harder to evaporate fluid from the skin into the air when there's already a lot of moisture in the air. The impacts of heat on the body are difficult to correctly identify in hospitals or medical records. "The response the body takes to help maintain safe internal body temperatures implicates many bodily systems. Heat has a kind of widespread cascading effects that are just really hard to correctly identify." — Dr. Robert Meade Connect with Dr. Robert Meade: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: X: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Brandon Sparks: Incels - Involuntary Celibacy
04/01/2025
Dr. Brandon Sparks: Incels - Involuntary Celibacy
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Brandon Sparks discuss the phenomenon of involuntary celibacy (incels). Dr. Sparks, an applied forensic psychologist, explains that incels are men experiencing long-term involuntary celibacy, often due to social exclusion and bullying during adolescence. Incels, primarily aged 18-30, are less likely to be in education or employment. The term "incel" originated from a woman's project at Carleton University. Incels often self-identify online, where they discuss the "Black Pill" philosophy, a nihilistic view of society. Dr. Sparks highlights the need for empathy and understanding to address their isolation and frustration. Key Takeaways: The modern iteration is often “incel” refers exclusively to men who are experiencing involuntary celibacy and they've been experiencing this for quite some time. They've come to believe that they can't form romantic or sexual relationships, and that's causing them an extreme amount of distress. For women who identify with the experience of an incel, they are often called “femcels”. There's a lot of incels that are looking to talk to people and to share their experiences. One of the biggest risk factors in adolescence is the people who are already being left behind. This seems to indicate that there's certainly a subset of people who struggle to catch up. "Incel philosophy as we know it, based on forum analysis they've created this worldview called the “Black Pill”, which is a nihilistic perspective of the world. It's this very transactional view of relationships, which is quite problematic because they're viewing women as master manipulators, playing this big game plan, and that men are just a means to an end for them." — Dr. Brandon Sparks Connect with Dr. Brandon Sparks: Website: Google Scholar: Research Gate: Twitter: Bluesky: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Harm from Cuts to Science and Education
03/25/2025
Harm from Cuts to Science and Education
In this episode, Therese Markow discusses the impact of budgetary cuts on scientific research and the Nations Report Card from the Department of Education. She explains what the funding from the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation supports, and argues how cutting overhead costs to 15% shuts down scientific progress. She also highlights the importance of the Nations Report Card, which has tracked student performance since 1969, for informing educational policy. Markow urges listeners to contact their representatives to reinstate funding for the National Report Card. Key Takeaways: Laboratories are in buildings - buildings with plumbing, lights, air conditioning, heat, power to operate equipment, and more that all require maintenance, These are paid for by the overhead, not from the research grants Test results are critical for understanding where improvements need to be made in education, both private and public. We want our students to be competent. When people aren’t reading, they are missing information that is vital to their wellbeing and the well-being of their communities. "When you hear complaints that these overhead costs are excessive or a rip-off, think about it. Clearly, they're essential and they shouldn't be cut." — Therese Markow, Ph.D. Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. James Alcock: Why We Believe
03/18/2025
Dr. James Alcock: Why We Believe
We all believe in something, from Santa Claus, to the global shape of the earth, to babies needing to be taken care of for survival. While some of our beliefs are intuitive or have evidence, many are not. Sometimes the evidence that we believe to be true is faulty. In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. James Alcock discuss how these beliefs are built, how we interpret situations to create beliefs, and why we, as a society, have so many common beliefs. As humans, we like to believe we are rational beings, but so many of our beliefs are happening automatically, without our conscious thought or from common teachings that we are all exposed to from those in authority. Therese and Dr. Alcock also discuss further complications regarding belief, such as conspiracy mentalities, imagination inflation, and memory contamination and the role that these elements of complication can play in trying to suss out what to believe in this world full of many shades of gray. Key Takeaways: We cannot learn everything in one lifetime so, as a society, we come to rely on authorities and shared, inherited beliefs. There is no evidence that people can bury trauma. The problem with trauma is people can’t forget. Due to mental desire to belief and idiosyncratic movements, humans often see things that are “magic” or “unexplainable” due to our own actions. "The problem is, if we don’t have the capacity and we don’t have the motivation to critically examine the evidence, then we won’t distinguish between evidence that really is factual and evidence which is wrong." — Dr. James Alcock Connect with Dr. James Alcock: Wikipedia Page: Book: Connect with Therese: Website: Twitter: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Loretta Mayer: Contraceptive Rat Control
03/11/2025
Dr. Loretta Mayer: Contraceptive Rat Control
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Loretta Mayer discuss the growing problem of urban rat populations, exacerbated by climate change and the ineffectiveness of traditional poisoning methods. Dr. Mayer discusses the non-lethal contraceptive method for rats and mice, developed from her research on reproductive physiology, and successful field tests that have shown significant reduction in rodent populations around the world. Finally, they discuss the non-profit Wisdom Good Works as well as Wisdom Good Bites and their aim to improve public health and environmental conditions by reducing rodent-borne diseases and improving rodent health. Key Takeaways: Rats are the most successful reproductive mammal on earth, with the ability of a single female to generate over 15,000 prodigy over her lifetime. The rat contraceptive has a half-life of less than 15 minutes, meaning there is no possibility of transferring the contraceptive to a predator like a cat or a raptor. Rats are smart, and they learn. If you’re trying to feed them poison, they will learn, and they will avoid it. "The literature is quite deep on these rodents. They love to be tickled. They have compassion for other rodents. They are very closely connected to their conspecifics." — Dr. Loretta Mayer Episode References: Another unwelcome consequence of climate change: An explosion of urban rats by Karen Kaplan - Connect with Dr. Loretta Mayer: Professional Bio: Website: & LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Charles Piller: Alzheimer's Treatments Slow in Coming
03/04/2025
Charles Piller: Alzheimer's Treatments Slow in Coming
In this episode, Therese Markow and Charles Piller discuss the slow progress of Alzheimer’s treatments. Based on his research and findings as an investigative journalist, as well as his newest book, Doctored: Fraud, Arrogance, and Tragedy in the Quest to Cure Alzheimer’s, they discuss the complexity of the disease, msiconduct in the research, and the other problems the research is facing despite the funding for it being at an all time high. Charles comments on the FDA's reliance on industry-affiliated advisors, the revolving door phenomenon, and why the new anti-amyloid drugs are not as practical as they might seem on the surface with limited effectiveness, high costs, and high liability. Finally, Charles emphasizes the need for diverse research strategies and better regulation to protect patients and families traversing this complex disease. Key Takeaways: There are more than 7 million people with Alzheimer’s in the US. In addition, there are 11 million family caregivers or loved ones taking care of these patients, which is an enormous issue and burden, both financial and emotional. The Amyloid Mafia idea is behind the concerns that the competitive pressure has reduced the extent of the types of ideas that are being fully examined in the treatments for Alzheimer’s. While science is often self-correcting, it can take time. It is important for forensic image sleuths and journalists to expose misconduct and other scientific errors or wrongdoings to speed up that process of science, acknowledging and correcting the errors. "In the marketplace of scientific ideas, competition is almost always valuable to test and press the progenitors of these ideas into being able to think flexibly and to try to prove out the ones that are the ones that are the most effective." — Charles Piller Connect with Charles Piller: Professional Bio: Book: Doctored: Fraud, Arrogance, and Tragedy in the Quest to Cure Alzheimer’s - Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Paul Offit: Hidden Dangers of Measles
02/25/2025
Dr. Paul Offit: Hidden Dangers of Measles
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Paul Offit discuss the MMR vaccine, the history of it, and the current decay of measles herd immunity today. Many parents are refusing to vaccinate their children, referencing politicians, actors, and social activists who lack correct information regarding the vaccine. Even if an unvaccinated child recovers from measles, they may, years later, develop a fatal encephalitis from the measles virus that has hidden in their brains. Dr. Offit thus discusses not only the serious potential complications of measles during the illness but the risks of later and seemingly unrelated fatalities in the unvaccinated. Key Takeaways: School vaccine mandates were born in the mid-1970s, especially in big cities, as outbreaks were often spread in schools. In a portion of children who recover from measles, the measles virus still remains hidden in the brain and can result in encephalitis. You have the right to make decisions about your own health, but you don’t have the right to make your child a martyr for your cause. Many of those activating against vaccinations are still referencing an invalidated and retracted paper from 1998. "Medicine’s hard enough – there is so much we can’t do - but this we can do! We can prevent this disease, so watching parents, knowingly, put their children in harm’s way, and putting those their children come in contact with in harm’s way, has been very hard to watch." — Dr. Paul Offit Connect with Dr. Paul Offit: Professional Bio: Book: and Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Jamie Lo, MD: Marijuana and the Fetal Brain
02/18/2025
Dr. Jamie Lo, MD: Marijuana and the Fetal Brain
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Jamie Lo discuss the complex topic of marijuana and the fetal brain. Dr. Lo explains some of the findings from a study of over 3 million pregnant individuals in California, why pregnant individuals may choose to use marijuana, the links between THC exposure in the fetal brain and long-term neurodevelopmental issues, and why this conversation is becoming increasingly important for healthcare providers to have with their patients. Dr. Lo emphasizes the importance of both maternal and fetal health, the need for better public health campaigns, and increased education for healthcare providers to address the rising use of cannabis during pregnancy. Key Takeaways: More people now use marijuana than alcohol. The prevalence of pregnant individuals ranges from about 2-5% up to 30% depending on socioeconomic status, region, and other factors. The reasons that pregnant individuals report marijuana use are typically for nausea, vomiting, sleep, insomnia, and mental health as well as management of pain and stress. Marijuana is not safer just because it is “plant-based”. Opium, tobacco, and alcohol are all also plant-based. We need clearer public health messaging around cannabis. The information widely available now is often confusing or stigmatized. "Cannabis, unlike other drugs, is not related to birth defects, but there is an increased risk for preterm birth, small for gestational age babies, increased risk for stillbirth, as well as longer-term effects that are more subtle but are very important." — Dr. Jamie Lo, MD Connect with Dr. Jamie Lo, MD: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Natalie Wexler: America's Knowledge Gap
02/11/2025
Natalie Wexler: America's Knowledge Gap
In this episode, Therese Markow and Natalie Wexler discuss the poor reading skills of American students, as evidenced by NAEP test results. Natalie highlights the ineffectiveness of current reading programs and the focus on skills over content. She also talks about the discrepancies between students of different backgrounds, and how The Matthew Effect appears in reading comprehension and general knowledge. She also encourages teachers and parents to introduce their children, as early as possible, to higher concepts and vocabulary as children can and do understand more than many give them credit for. Natalie also discusses the role of writing in enhancing reading comprehension and the need for systemic changes in education to improve literacy outcomes. Key Takeaways: When it comes to literacy and reading, the standards don’t specify content. Therefore, the tests are not grounded in consistent content. Most kids need to learn their phonics in order to become fluent readers. Making this a more automated skill will free up brain power for comprehension. Vocabulary is more likely to stick if it is heard in context and on repeat. Read aloud to your kids. Kids can take in more sophisticated concepts and vocabulary through listening than reading. This goes through age 13. More than average amounts of social studies in elementary school are correlated with higher than average reading scores later in school. "Kids who started with less of that academic knowledge and vocabulary, if they don't acquire it through school, they're going to fall farther and farther behind, because they're going to be limited to those simple texts. Even if there's some new vocabulary, new information in those texts, they're less likely to be able to retain it because they don't have anything for it to stick to." — Natalie Wexler Episode References: The Knowledge Matters Campaign: Connect with Natalie Wexler: Professional Bio: Website: Substack: Books: Beyond the Science of Reading: The Knowledge Gap: The Writing Revolution: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Amy Cooter: Militias in the United States Today
02/04/2025
Dr. Amy Cooter: Militias in the United States Today
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Amy Cooter discuss the complexities and variations within militia groups in the United States, citing examples of constitutional militias, millenarian militias, and border militias noting their varying beliefs and tendencies. Dr. Cooter also highlights how the role of nostalgia and protecting the Second Amendment rights are integral in militias’ self-perception. They discuss the difficulty in tracking militia activity, the racial undertones in these militia groups, as well as the legality and legal loopholes that many of these groups fall within. Key Takeaways: Not all militias are the same. They do not have the same goals, structure, meetings, life experiences, or beliefs. Border militias tend to be more concerned about migration, whereas others, who live away from the Southern border of the US, are less concerned about immigration. The Second Amendment and nostalgia are two major things that tie militia groups together with a point of commonality. A lot of militia members aren't very religious themselves, but we have to pay attention to the way that the mythologized story of our founding and who we are as a nation connects to certain Christian mythology in ways that are getting pulled forward with different iterations of what we’re calling White Christian Nationalism. "Most militias really see their limits at their community or even their county boundary. They tend to have only very local members to set their own agenda, even if they do coordinate, sometimes for training or other activities, with other geographically near militias." — Dr. Amy Cooter Episode Reference: ProPublica Article: The Militia and the Mole by Joshua Kaplan: Connect with Dr. Amy Cooter: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Book: Nostalgia, Nationalism, and the US Militia Movement: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Richard Conniff: Ending Epidemics
01/28/2025
Richard Conniff: Ending Epidemics
In this episode, Therese Markow and Richard Conniff discuss his book "Ending Epidemics," which explores the history of infectious diseases and vaccines. Richard highlights the evolution from ancient humoral theories, which thrived for nearly 2000 years, to modern germ theory, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and vaccination. He recounts the development of the smallpox vaccine by Edward Jenner and the polio vaccine by Jonas Salk, noting initial resistance and the success of widespread vaccination. He also addresses the current resistance to COVID-19 vaccines, stressing the importance of balancing vaccine risks against disease risks. He also warns of the dangers of withdrawing from global health organizations like the WHO. Key Takeaways: The Semmelweis Reflex is the tendency of people to stick with what they already believe and ignore clear evidence that it’s wrong. Smallpox has been eradicated. In many areas, they were still using Jenner’s vaccine, which still worked up until 1980. With some viruses, illnesses are dormant but can crop up later in life, such as chickenpox and shingles. Viruses hide in the nervous system When you are thinking about vaccines, think about the disease, and then think about what the relative risk of the vaccine is versus the risk of the disease. "The problem is that people can develop these imaginary problems with vaccines because they do not have any conception of how awful the disease is that the vaccine is preventing." — Richard Conniff Episode References: Ending Epidemics: A History of Escape from Contagion - The Species Seekers: Heroes, Fools, and the Mad Pursuit of Life on Earth - Connect with Richard Conniff: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. MacKenzie Pellin: Cancer in Your Dog or Cat
01/21/2025
Dr. MacKenzie Pellin: Cancer in Your Dog or Cat
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. MacKenzie Pellin discuss the cancer rates in dogs and cats, the types of cancer we tend to see in our four-legged friends, and the challenges of diagnosing cancer in pets. Dr. Pellin also breaks down some of the main differences of cancer in breeds of dogs and cats, and the reasons why those types of cancer are more common based on the pet’s structure. Finally, Dr. Pellin emphasizes the importance of routine veterinary care and early detection for your pets. Key Takeaways: Dogs and humans are diagnosed with cancer at about the same rate - about 25% over their life, with about 50% at geriatric ages. About ⅓ of all cats will be diagnosed with cancer throughout their lifetime. Large and giant breed dogs are more predisposed to bone cancer. Dogs with long noses are more likely to get nasal tumors. Snub-nosed dogs are more likely to have tumors in their heart space. In cats, certain types of viruses, like FIV of FeLV can be transmitted to other cats, which can then mutate into cancer. These seem species-specific and cannot be transmitted to other species like dogs or humans. Monitor your dog or cat’s habits enough that you can tell when things change. You know them, you know their habits, trust your gut, and take them in if things seem unusual. "Be aware of your animal's habits, and if things start to change, pay attention to that and take them into your clinic for a checkup." — Dr. MacKenzie Pellin Connect with Dr. MacKenzie Pellin: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. John Hutton: Reading to Babies Helps Their Brains
01/14/2025
Dr. John Hutton: Reading to Babies Helps Their Brains
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. John Hutton discuss the impact of early reading exposure on brain development in infants and young children. He explains that babies are born with 100 billion brain cells, each with around 1,000 connections and that these connections are shaped by experiences. Dr. Hutton emphasizes the importance of a nurturing home literacy environment, which includes regular reading routines and interactive reading. He also addresses the negative effects of excessive screen time on brain development, particularly in preschoolers, and advocates for reducing screen usage to allow for more real-world engagement. Additionally, he highlights programs like Reach Out and Read and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library that aim to increase access to books for children from underprivileged backgrounds. Key Takeaways: It takes a long time for the human brain to develop compared to other animals. Humans are uniquely more sensitive to experiences in their environment than other organisms because of this long development process. The Home Literacy Environment can be divided into quantitative (such as the number of books and amount of time spent reading) and qualitative (such as questions asked, format of books, interest in reading, etc.) components. There is no “reading network” built-in to the brain. If kids aren’t taught to read, they are not going to just magically know how to read. Do your best to form your own routines, and try to make reading fun, enjoyable, and nurturing. Kids want to emulate their parents. If we want them to use less screen time, as adults, we must also have less screen time. "Books, more than anything, are a catalyst that brings grown-ups and kids together to exchange language, to exchange emotions, to show love and affection, and that can be a source of nurturing for all these different aspects of development that are related to that experience." — Dr. John Hutton Episode References: Read Aloud 15 Minutes: Reach Out and Read: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: Dr. John Hutton Introduces the SHARE STEP Method for Reading with Young Children: Connect with Dr. John Hutton: Professional Bio: Twitter: Books: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Adina Wise: Parkinson's - Environmental Risks
01/07/2025
Dr. Adina Wise: Parkinson's - Environmental Risks
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Adina Wise discuss the complexities of Parkinson’s disease, including its causes, symptoms, and the role of environmental factors, such as air pollution. They discuss who Parkinson’s primarily affects, the genetic factors at play, the higher incidents in specific regions, and the increase in the frequency of Parkinson’s cases. They also talk about the recent advancements including continuous infusion therapy and stress that early detection is crucial, though challenging due to ethical considerations. Key Takeaways: Movement disorders are one of the few areas of medicine where diagnosis continues to rely heavily on careful observation. Parkinson’s is a heterogeneous disorder, not a single disease. Every case is a little different with the well-known motor symptoms - such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness, but also equally important non-motor symptoms - like sleep disturbances, mood changes, cognitive impairment, and more. Parkinson’s mostly appears in people over the age of 60. For early-onset Parkinson’s (before the age of 50) accounts for about 4-10% of all cases. In these early-onset cases, there tends to be a stronger genetic influence. The number one thing you can do to keep your brain healthy right now is regular aerobic exercise. "Environmental factors, genes, lifestyle - these all may influence whether Parkinson’s manifests. This makes the Parkinson’s genetics quite complicated." — Dr. Adina Wise Connect with Dr. Adina Wise: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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What Do You Know About the Fish You Eat?
12/31/2024
What Do You Know About the Fish You Eat?
Most of us take for granted that the seafood we eat is healthy and better for the atmosphere. But there are hidden costs in our increasing consumption of seafood that we don’t see. Why? Because these costs are accrued on the high seas and under the sea where few journalists endeavor to cover them. Sea slavery, overfishing, pollution, and loss of revenue for people already struggling to make a living are extensive, but not well known. Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times investigative reporter Ian Urbina has seen these horrors firsthand and talks with us today about his book “The Outlaw Ocean” and his foundation of the same name. Key Takeaways: Approximately 50 of our seafood is farmed, and the other 50 percent arrives to consumers via practices involving human abuse and serious environmental damage. Much of the farmed fish eat fish-meal that is derived from massive overfishing of fish less desirable for eating (but nonetheless ecologically important) and other species, such as whales, sharks, and turtles) caught up in the fishing process. Cooked, ground up, and used to feed the farmed fish. We tend to think about greenhouse gases as being the driver of global change, but these practices are wreaking severe havoc on the planet, underwater. Human abuse and slavery are often involved in the fleets that harvest from the sea. Invisible people, disposable people. Because all of the above take place out of sight, the damage usually goes unseen due to a lack of journalistic coverage. It’s expensive to document but it's critical that it’s brought to light. "There is a dark irony to aquaculture and raising fish on land and in pens. It was meant, and supported for many years by environmentalists, as a way to slow the rate of depletion of the wild fish. Now, because those aquaculture fish are being fed pelletized wild-caught fish, it's actually speeding up the rate of ocean depletion." — Ian Urbina Connect with Ian Urbina: Twitter: Facebook: Website: Book: YouTube: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Twitter: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Can Your Deodorant Cause Breast Cancer?
12/24/2024
Can Your Deodorant Cause Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is on the rise, especially in women under 40. This is pretty scary and the increase points to something environmental. In today’s episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Kris McGrath talk about one of these environmental factors and how our individual underarm hygiene may play a role in our risk for breast (and prostate) cancers earlier in life. Dr. McGrath has had a long-time interest in this trend and they discuss some of his work on the relationship between underarm shaving and the use of deodorants and antiperspirants. Key Takeaways: The majority of breast cancer is environmental or lifestyle-related. Only 5-10% of breast cancer is due to genetic causes. So what are the factors? Both breast cancer and prostate cancer are hormone-driven cancers. More research needs to be done, but there already is a significant and scary relationship between underarm hygiene and breast and prostate cancers. "In my paper, I showed that the earlier you began underarm habits, shaving your underarms and applying antiperspirant deodorant three times a week or more, the diagnosis of breast cancer began at a younger age, especially if you started using these products before the age of 16." — Dr. Kris McGrath Connect with Dr. Kris McGrath: Professional Bio: Connect with Therese: Website: Twitter: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Mark Greene: Mansplaining
12/17/2024
Mark Greene: Mansplaining
In this episode, Therese Markow and Mark Greene discuss the pervasive issue of mansplaining, a phenomenon where men explain things to women despite their lesser expertise. Mark explains that mansplaining is rooted in "Man Box Culture," a set of rigid masculine rules that discourage emotional expression and promote dominance. He highlights that these rules, which include not showing emotions and being a breadwinner, have been ingrained since the Industrial Revolution and are still prevalent today. Mark emphasizes the need for men to unlearn these behaviors to form meaningful connections and improve their mental health. He also discusses the impact of these cultural norms on men's professional and personal lives, advocating for a shift towards more inclusive and emotionally open masculinity. Key Takeaways: No culture is monolithic. No culture is non-changeable. Mansplaining is one direct product of a culture of masculinity that says: Don't show your emotions. Always be tough, be right, know more.. Never talk about anything deep. Man Box Culture is not traditional masculinity The breaking of connection is what leads to Man Box Culture and the increased rates of suicide in teenage boys and mental health challenges in adult men. Authentic, deep, caring relationships require emotional sharing. If you spend your life mansplaining, you don’t have connection. "My work is around the idea that we want to get men to wake up to the limitations of Man Box Culture and shift that culture to a healthier culture of expression and connection." — Mark Greene Episode References: Men Explain Things to Me by Rebecca Solnit: The Man Box Study by Equimundo: When Boys Become Boys by Judy Chu: Niobe Way: Catalyst: How Combative Cultures Prevent Men from Interrupting Sexism: The Good Men Project: Connect with Mark Greene: Website: Twitter: Book: The Little #MeToo Book for Me: Book: The Relational Book for Parenting: Remaking Manhood Podcast: LinkedIn: Instagram: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Anna Stokke: Why Johnny Can't Add
12/10/2024
Dr. Anna Stokke: Why Johnny Can't Add
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Anna Stokke discuss the decline in math education, noting that students lack basic arithmetic skills, hindering their ability to grasp complex concepts across multiple subjects. Dr. Stokke highlights the persistence of ineffective teaching methods, such as constructivism, despite evidence supporting direct instruction. She advocates for a return to systematic, explicit teaching methods to build a strong foundation in math. They also stress the importance of parents questioning educational practices and seeking evidence-based research. Key Takeaways: Math is cumulative. It is like a ladder. To teach a student algebra, they need to know what happens before that. If you don't learn the basic math at the time you should, times tables, for instance, you should really know by the end of grade three, and then you don't get that fixed, it's just going to snowball. Memorization practices are sometimes called drill and kill. However, if students don’t get that practice, they will fall behind early on. There is a lot of evidence from cognitive and neuroscientists that learning basic mathematics actually contributes to your problem-solving abilities for a range of different problems, not just mathematical ones. "The decline in math is well documented in North America. We don't know why that is, but it's fairly clear that these changes in education seem to correlate with the decline in scores. It's very concerning, and I think we could turn it around if we'd focus on more of a bottom-up approach, building the foundation and using good instructional techniques." — Dr. Anna Stokke Episode References: NCTM: Project Follow Through: Sold a Story: Connect with Dr. Anna Stokke: Professional Bio: Twitter: Website: Podcast: YouTube: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Joel Gallant: HIV Today
12/03/2024
Dr. Joel Gallant: HIV Today
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Joel Gallant discuss the history and evolution of HIV treatment and prevention. He highlights the changes of treatment from early AZT, to the extensive multi-drug regimens of the 90s, and the current single-pill treatment with minimal side effects. They also discuss the racial and regional disparities of new HIV cases in the US. Despite progress, challenges persist, including stigma, lack of healthcare access, and resistance to treatments. Dr. Gallant also gives more information on hope for ending the epidemic and hope for a cure. Key Takeaways: With early diagnosis and treatment of HIV, AIDS is not commonly seen anymore, though it still exists. “HIV is a retrovirus, meaning that it has enzymes that allow it to transcribe RNA into DNA, the reverse of the usual process in which DNA is transcribed into RNA. The viral DNA can then be inserted into the DNA of human cells. With more research, we’ve seen a steady improvement with more, safer drug choices, and better and easier combinations. Most people can be treated with a single pill once a day and are expected to live a normal lifespan in good health. In the US, no one has to go without treatment based on inability to pay. Even people who are uninsured and live in states that didn't expand Medicaid can get comprehensive HIV care, including medications, through clinics established by the Federal Ryan White Care Program. "We do know that treatment is highly effective at preventing transmission, including sexual and mother-to-child transmission. It’s so effective that the CDC says that if your viral load (how we measure how much virus there is in your blood) is fully suppressed on treatment (having an undetectable virus) then you cannot transmit HIV. Treatment is 100% effective as prevention." — Dr. Joel Gallant Episode References: Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program: Connect with Dr. Joel Gallant: Professional Bio: Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. MacKenzie Pellin, Dr. Laurie Malone & Dr. Patricia Ungar: Sniffer Dogs: Detect Cancer and COVID
11/26/2024
Dr. MacKenzie Pellin, Dr. Laurie Malone & Dr. Patricia Ungar: Sniffer Dogs: Detect Cancer and COVID
In this episode, Therese Markow, Dr. MacKenzie Pellin, Dr. Laurie Malone, and Dr. Patricia Ungar explore how dogs can detect early signs of cancer and COVID-19. They discuss their collaborative research, how the dogs are trained, and the types of diseases that these medical scent dogs can help to identify. They also discuss how the dogs' accuracy rivaled or exceeded other tests, but logistical challenges exist in public screening. The potential for early cancer detection and mass COVID screening is highlighted, emphasizing the need for further research and public acceptance. Key Takeaways: Medical scent dogs began first with observation as it was noticed that many dogs indicated carcinomas in their owners. Longnose dogs tend to be more beneficial than others, such as a French Bulldog or those with a shorter snout, in scent detection. While the initial training can take several months, dogs have a long scent memory. If you want them to train a new scent, that can take a couple of months. Dogs could detect covid infection prior to symptoms or testing "The goal is early detection, but to be efficient and really valuable for a screening test, tests need to be accurate, it needs to be easy, and it should be cost-effective too." — Dr. MacKenzie Pellin Episode References: The use of sniffer dogs for early detection of cancer: a One Health approach: Connect with Dr. MacKenzie Pellin: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Patricia Ungar: Website: LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Laurie Malone: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Hussam Mahmoud: Preventing Wildfire Damage
11/19/2024
Dr. Hussam Mahmoud: Preventing Wildfire Damage
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Hussam Mahmoud discuss the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires, citing the 2023 Maui fire and the 2024 Ventura County fire. Dr. Hassam Mahmoud, an expert in wildfire control, explains that wildfires have risen by 5% annually since 2001 and are now more intense. He highlights that 90% of wildfires in the US are human-induced. Dr. Mahmoud discusses his research focusing on a model to predict fire spread in urban areas, considering factors like wind, building materials, and vegetation. This model, which has accurately reproduced historical fires, aims to identify "super spreaders" to target mitigation efforts effectively. The approach could potentially reduce wildfire damage by identifying critical structures and implementing preventive measures. Key Takeaways: Human-caused fires are far more common than weather-caused fires, up to 90% in the United States. There are things that can be done in both communities and in wildlands that can help to control wildfires. Preventing and controlling wildfires is more than just a one-person effort. Even if you make your house fireproof, there is still a probability of the house burning. But you can minimize the chance of the house burning. Communities should look at fire prevention as a collective effort for a collective impact. "I am incredibly hopeful that in the future we will get to the point where we minimize losses to a great extent. Maybe it will happen. We're not there yet, but I'm confident we'll get to that point." — Dr. Hussam Mahmoud Episode References: TEDxMileHigh: Hussam Mahmoud Wildfires and Pandemics: Connect with Dr. Hussam Mahmoud: Professional Bio: LinkedIn: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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Dr. Keith McCormick: Osteoporosis and You
11/12/2024
Dr. Keith McCormick: Osteoporosis and You
In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Keith McCormick discuss what you need to know about osteoporosis and bone health. Dr. McCormick explains what causes osteoporosis, the importance of early bone density tests, and breaks down some of the lifestyle factors that affect bone health. They discuss the need for personalized treatment beyond only medication, and Dr. McCormick advocates for patient empowerment and comprehensive understanding to improve treatment outcomes. Key Takeaways: 50% of women will get osteoporosis. 20% of men will get osteoporosis. People should be getting bone density tests in their forties, not waiting until their fifties or sixties. The sooner it is discovered you are having symptoms, the sooner you can begin to treat and prevent. Bone strength is a combination of bone density and bone quality. Get both the DEXA and Trabecular Bone Score or TBS.Usually physicians don’t request the TBS but it is very important. Ask for it. Testing should include blood tests for bone turnover markers. Your blood is telling a larger story and it can get complicated. Systemic inflammation also can be tested as it can contribute to loss of bone density. The more times you stimulate your body, the more you will stimulate the osteoblasts. "It's important to understand that you, the patient, are the boss, and you're paying that person, you're asking that person for help and that they should be working with you." — Dr. Keith McCormick Connect with Dr. Keith McCormick: Website: LinkedIn: Twitter: Facebook: Books: Great Bones: Taking Control of Your Osteoporosis: The Whole-Body Approach to Osteoporosis: Connect with Therese: Website: Threads: Email: Audio production by You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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