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Preventing Dementia
The New York Times article from April 23, 2025, discusses a study identifying 17 overlapping factors that influence the risk of stroke, dementia, and late-life depression. The research emphasizes that lifestyle changes can simultaneously lower the risk of all three conditions. Experts highlight that these diseases often coexist due to shared underlying damage to small blood vessels in the brain, with risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes contributing to this damage.
The study identifies six factors that protect against brain diseases. These include low to moderate alcohol intake, consistent cognitive activity through mentally stimulating tasks, a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, dairy, fish, and nuts, moderate to high levels of physical activity, a strong sense of purpose in life, and maintaining a large social network. Conversely, the article outlines 13 health characteristics and habits that increase the risk of developing these conditions, such as high blood pressure, high body mass index, high blood sugar, high total cholesterol, depressive symptoms, a diet high in red meat, sugar-sweetened beverages, sweets and sodium, hearing loss, kidney disease, pain (particularly when it interferes with activity), sleep disturbances, a smoking history, loneliness or isolation, and general stress or stressful life events.
The article emphasizes that reducing high blood pressure is particularly beneficial, as it is the greatest individual risk factor for developing stroke, dementia, and depression. It also suggests incorporating physical and mental exercises into one's routine, ideally with friends to add a social element. The best time to start making these lifestyle changes is in middle age to prevent early disease development. Ultimately, the article encourages readers to view these factors as a "menu of options," tackling them step-by-step to take better care of their brain health.
#BrainHealth #DementiaPrevention #StrokePrevention #DepressionAwareness #HealthyLifestyle
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3. Your Gut Check
46:05||Season 11, Ep. 3#coloncancer#heartburn#abdominalpainWelcome to our latest podcast episode! Tonight, we're diving into the world of breakfast nutrition, featuring the popular Kodiak Baked Cake pancake mix, which claims to be high in protein. We'll discuss how, while this mix offers a significant protein boost, there are equally, if not more nutritious alternatives like beans, Greek yogurt, and lean chicken that surpass the nutritional value of these ultra-processed pancakes.We’re also thrilled to have Dr. Adeeb Dwairy, a gastroenterologist based in Houston, joining us to shed light on common gastrointestinal issues that many people face. Dr. Dwairy will share insights on the management of esophageal reflux disease, highlighting the tendency for patients to self-medicate for too long before seeking proper care. He’ll also share a personal story about the importance of colon cancer screening and the various methods available to ensure early detection. Tune in for a conversation that offers both culinary insights and vital health information!Links to ReviewColon Cancer ScreeningChronic abdominal painEsophageal refluxWhere to find Dr. Joe Galati and his team:Dr. Galati's newsletter sign-upMedical Practice: Liver Specialists of TexasDr. Galati's Book Site: Eating Yourself SickFacebook: Dr. Joe GalatiDr. Galati's YouTube ChannelPlease send feedback and suggestion. You can message me here.
2. #BreastCancer Awareness
30:33||Season 11, Ep. 2In this latest episode, we sit down with Jackie DeAngelis, a seasoned journalist and host on Fox Business Network, to discuss her personal journey with breast cancer. Diagnosed four years ago, Jackie shares her emotional and physical experience navigating treatment, including her decision to undergo a double mastectomy. She emphasizes the importance of early screening, understanding family history, and managing modifiable risk factors to improve outcomes. Jackie highlights key links between lifestyle choices and breast cancer risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco. As the host of Fox Business, she brings her insights into the significance of awareness and proactive health measures. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, prevention, and the importance of being informed about breast cancer risks.American Cancer Society (ACS) - Breast Cancer Screening & Risk Factorshttps://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection.htmlCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Breast Cancer: Risks and Screeninghttps://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/risk_factors.htmNational Cancer Institute (NCI) - Breast Cancer Prevention and Risk Factorshttps://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/patient/breast-prevention-pdqWorld Health Organization (WHO) - Breast Cancer Screeninghttps://www.who.int/cancer/prevention/diagnosis-screening/breast-cancer/en/Mayo Clinic - Breast Cancer risk factors and screening testshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/in-depth/breast-cancer/art-20048268
1. Airports and Heart Attacks
10:50||Season 11, Ep. 1Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re diving into an often-overlooked aspect of modern travel: the potential health hazards faced by travelers in today’s expansive airports. As airports have grown larger and more sprawling, passengers are now required to walk much longer distances from drop-off points to their gates. For many, especially older adults and those with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, this extended walking can impose a significant physical strain. This increased demand on the circulatory system can lead to heightened risks of cardiovascular events, particularly in individuals who are already out of shape or managing ongoing health issues.The stress of running late to catch a flight compounds this risk, activating the sympathetic nervous system and increasing the possibility of heart attacks and strokes. Data has shown that airports are actually hotspots for cardiovascular emergencies, with some studies indicating that up to 10% of all sudden cardiac events occur in or around airport environments. For example, a 2016 study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine found that the incidence of cardiac arrests is significantly higher in airports compared to other public locations, often due to the combination of physical exertion and stress-related factors. This underscores how the airport environment, with its long walking distances and time pressures, can unfortunately contribute to emergency situations, especially among vulnerable populations.Adding to these concerns, many travelers are burdened with heavy luggage, often lifting bags weighing 20 to 30 pounds into overhead bins. This strenuous activity poses a real risk of musculoskeletal injury, especially for those unaccustomed to such exertion. Improper lifting technique or fatigue can lead to strains, sprains, or worse. Overall, modern airports, while convenient, present unique health challenges that deserve attention—not just for the safety of the individual traveler but also for the healthcare systems that respond to emergencies in these busy transit hubs.Where to find Dr. Joe Galati and his team:Dr. Galati's newsletter sign-upMedical Practice: Liver Specialists of TexasDr. Galati's Book Site: Eating Yourself SickFacebook: Dr. Joe GalatiDr. Galati's YouTube ChannelPlease send feedback and suggestion. You can message me here.
10. Robotic Surgery and Liver Transplant
48:55||Season 11, Ep. 10Your Health First: Advancements in Robotic Surgery & Live Liver Donation at Houston MethodistJoin Dr. Joe Galati on this episode of "Your Health First" as he speaks with leading surgeons from Houston Methodist Hospital, Dr. Simon and Dr. Yee Lee Cheah. Broadcasting live from 740 KTRH in Houston and worldwide on the iHeartRadio app every Sunday at 7:00 PM Central, this insightful discussion delves into the groundbreaking work being done in robotic surgery and the current status of the live donor liver transplant program at Houston Methodist.Dr. Simon and Dr. Cheah share their expertise on the numerous benefits of robotic surgery, highlighting the significant advantages for patients and the remarkable advancements in technology over the past 5-10 years. They also provide a comprehensive overview of the meticulous patient selection process for live liver donors and detail the structured program at Houston Methodist Hospital.Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the cutting-edge surgical techniques and life-saving transplant procedures making a difference in patient care.For more information:Dr. Simon & Dr. Cheah: www.houstonmethodist.orgDr. Joe Galati: www.drjoegalati.comGuest Biographies:Dr. Simon:Dr. Simon is a highly accomplished surgeon with a specialization in abdominal transplantation and hepatobiliary surgery. She earned her medical degree with honors from University College Cork Faculty of Medicine in Ireland in 2002 and completed her general surgery residency at Brown University Program, Rhode Island Hospital. Dr. Simon further honed her expertise with a research fellowship in Diagnostic Imaging at Brown University and an ASTS-certified fellowship in Abdominal Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center. Her clinical interests are extensive, encompassing both benign and malignant tumors of the liver, bile duct, and pancreas, including hepatocellular carcinoma and Klatskin tumors. She is also deeply involved in kidney transplantation, living and deceased donor liver transplantation, pancreatic carcinoma, robotic surgery, and surgery for portal hypertension. Dr. Simon is board-certified in general surgery by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).Dr. Yee Lee Cheah:Dr. Yee Lee Cheah is a distinguished surgeon who joined the J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center at Houston Methodist Hospital in 2022. She graduated with honors from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 2000 and completed her General Surgery Residency at the Brown University Program. Dr. Cheah further specialized with an ASTS-accredited fellowship in Transplantation & Hepatobiliary Surgery at the Lahey Clinic. Prior to Houston Methodist, she played a pivotal role at the Asian American Liver Centre at Gleneagles Hospital, the largest adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) center in Southeast Asia, before returning to LHMC to develop their LDLT and robotic surgery programs. Her expertise lies in living donor liver transplantation, robotic transplantation, HPB surgery for benign and malignant disorders, and nutrition therapy for surgical patients. Dr. Cheah's main research interests are centered on living donor safety and robotic surgery. She has held faculty positions at Brown University and Tufts University and served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the National University of Singapore.
9. Prostate Cancer Questions Answered
25:00||Season 11, Ep. 9Welcome to this week’s episode of our podcast, where we delve into an important and often discussed topic in men's health—prostate cancer. Today, we’ll explore the latest insights into how prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated, providing valuable information for both patients and healthcare providers. A key focus will be on the role of PSA testing, its benefits, limitations, and how it fits into the broader screening and diagnostic process. Joining us as our expert guest is Dr. Brian Miles, a renowned specialist in urology and prostate health. With his expertise, we aim to shed light on current advancements, best practices, and emerging trends in prostate cancer management. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed, are due for screening, or simply want to stay informed, this episode offers essential knowledge to help you navigate this important health topic. Stay tuned!Where to find Dr. Joe Galati and his team:Dr. Galati's newsletter sign-upMedical Practice: Liver Specialists of TexasDr. Galati's Book Site: Eating Yourself SickFacebook: Dr. Joe GalatiDr. Galati's YouTube ChannelPlease send feedback and suggestion. You can message me here.
8. Prostate Cancer and President Biden
15:54||Season 11, Ep. 8On this week’s broadcast of YOUR HEALTH FIRST, we discussed several important health news items, including the recent diagnosis of prostate cancer in President Biden. While we all offer him our best wishes and support, the announcement has sparked considerable discussion about how this may have unfolded.Over the past 15 years, strategies for prostate cancer screening have evolved significantly. The use of the blood test known as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) has been at the center of research and clinical debate. In earlier years, even mildly elevated PSA levels often led to prostate biopsies. However, growing concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment have led to more conservative approaches, with many physicians opting for careful monitoring rather than immediate invasive procedures.It is unclear exactly how this approach factored into President Biden’s case. However, in speaking with several leading prostate cancer experts in the Houston area, there was broad agreement: it’s likely that his PSA levels had been elevated over time, but the decision was made to monitor the situation closely rather than proceed with a biopsy right away.Whether or not political considerations influenced the timing or manner of this diagnosis is something that will likely be debated in the weeks, months, and years to come.Where to find Dr. Joe Galati and his team:Dr. Galati's newsletter sign-upMedical Practice: Liver Specialists of TexasDr. Galati's Book Site: Eating Yourself SickFacebook: Dr. Joe GalatiDr. Galati's YouTube ChannelPlease send feedback and suggestion. You can message me here.
7. Medical Whack-a-Mole
14:18||Season 11, Ep. 7Today, I share a new term that I coined: MEDICAL WHACK-A-MOLE.In this LATEST PODCAST episode, we dive into the concept of "Medical Whack-a-Mole," a term I coined to describe the all-too-frequent scenario in healthcare where physicians treat individual problems by passing patients from one specialist to another. This process often leads to patients being prescribed a staggering number of medications—sometimes even as many as 28, as seen in a recent case involving a patient managing five chronic conditions under six different doctors.Join me as I unpack this concerning phenomenon and share personal insights from my experience. We'll explore the implications of overmedication and how it detrimentally impacts patient health and wellness, undermining the very goal of making America healthy again. Together, we’ll discuss empowering patients to become better consumers of their healthcare, raising their health IQ, and advocating for themselves. Discover why it's essential to disrupt the whack-a-mole cycle of treatment and take control of chronic disease management, because the stakes couldn't be higher. Tune in for a crucial conversation about reshaping the future of healthcare for the betterment of all.My ContactsWhere to find Dr. Joe Galati and his team:Dr. Galati's newsletter sign-upMedical Practice: Liver Specialists of TexasTelephone: 713-794-0700Dr. Galati's Book Site: Eating Yourself SickFacebook: Dr. Joe GalatiDr. Galati's YouTube ChannelPlease send feedback and suggestion. You can message me here.
5. Understanding Fatty Liver
20:45||Season 11, Ep. 5Welcome to this episode of the Dr. Joe Galati Podcast where we delve into pressing health issues and the latest medical advancements. Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Mazen Noureddin, a world-renowned liver researcher, who joins us for an enlightening conversation about metabolic dysfunction associated with fatty liver disease, a condition that has become a public health crisis globally. As obesity and sedentary lifestyles continue to rise, the prevalence of fatty liver disease has skyrocketed, affecting millions of people worldwide.In this episode, we take a deep dive into the global epidemic of fatty liver disease, also known as metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Dr. Noureddin sheds light on alarming statistics: nearly one in four adults globally suffers from this condition, which can lead to serious liver complications. We discuss how fatty liver disease often accompanies other metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol levels, creating a complex web of health challenges for affected individuals.The conversation touches upon the epidemiology of fatty liver disease, exploring how socioeconomic factors and lifestyle choices contribute to its rapid proliferation. Dr. Noureddin explains the disease's natural history, detailing how it can progress from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. We discuss the critical importance of early diagnosis and risk assessment, as many individuals remain asymptomatic until the disease reaches advanced stages.Furthermore, our discussion highlights the increasing need for liver transplants due to the progression of fatty liver disease complications. Dr. Noureddin shares breakthroughs in research and potential new therapies on the horizon, including pharmacologic treatments aimed at reversing liver damage and improving metabolic health.For those seeking to learn more or get involved in the discussion about fatty liver disease, feel free to reach out to me at DrJoeGalati.com.#FattyLiverDisease #MetabolicHealth #LiverResearch #Diabetes #Obesity Join us for this crucial conversation as we aim to raise awareness and provide insights into the complexities of fatty liver disease and its growing impact on global health!