The Dose

Wildfire smoke can feel unavoidable during summer in Canada, and that's on top of the air pollution that most cities experience during warmer months. Respirologist Dr. Chris Carlsten, head of University of British Columbia's Air Pollution Exposure Lab, explains how poor air quality affects our health, and how masks and air filters can help.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.Fill out our listener survey here. We appreciate your input!

To live longer, healthier lives, we need to eat a balanced diet, get enough exercise and sleep, and go easy on the alcohol. While the solutions are simple, building healthy habits is more complicated. Dr. Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and author of Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity, explains why we should aim for a long "healthspan" versus "lifespan," and offers advice on how to build the habits that will help get us there.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.Fill out our listener survey here. We appreciate your input!

Just Asking, hosted by Saroja Coelho, takes audience questions about major news and trends, then invites experts to give you the answers needed to make better decisions in your life.In this episode: Drugs like ketamine, MDMA and psilocybin are being looked at as possible treatments for depression, anxiety and PTSD. And while there's a growing appetite from patients to explore these options, the research is still ongoing about why they work the way they do, and which patients are best suited for them. Where does the research currently stand? And what risks should patients be aware of? Just Asking brings on two experts to help answer those questions.

Cosmetics are a big business. But while many brands promise to beautify and rejuvenate, it's not always clear whether their makeup products and creams actually benefit our skin. Dermatologist Dr. Renee Beach explains how some cosmetics, including anti-aging creams, can improve skin health, but says not to believe everything you read on the label. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Former U.S. president Joe Biden's advanced prostate cancer has raised some questions, like how it could have gone undiagnosed for so long, and what the future holds. Dr. Laurence Klotz, chief of urology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, explains how prostate cancer is diagnosed, why some forms are more aggressive than others, and the extensive array of treatments available. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

We think of varicose veins as something that happens mostly to older people. It turns out the slow-moving condition usually begins at a much younger age. Dr. Varun Kapila is a vascular surgeon and president of the Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery. He says there are a few lifestyle factors that can reduce the chances of getting varicose veins — or at least slow their progression.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Seasonal allergy sufferers who've noticed their symptoms getting worse aren't imagining things. Due mostly to the effects of climate change, but also urban planning, seasonal allergies are more intense. Dr. Anne Ellis, chair of the division of allergy and immunology at Queen's University, explains why you're suffering more, and that allergy treatments are offering new hope. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

A new miracle cure-all has been making the rounds on social media, promising that people who take methylene blue can improve their mood and cognition. Some TikTok videos even suggest the synthetic dye could be used to treat cancer. Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill's Office for Science and Society, explains there's little evidence to suggest methylene blue is useful outside of very specific circumstances.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently spoke of an autism "epidemic" when he announced "a massive testing and research effort" to investigate potential causes. But as developmental pediatrician Dr. Melanie Penner explains, the rise in diagnoses reflects broader recognition of the signs and symptoms, rather than increased prevalence. And that, she says, means more people are getting the help they need. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Whole-body deodorants are the latest fad designed to mask our scent, but not everyone agrees that body odour is a bad thing. Sarah Everts, Carleton University associate professor and author of The Joy of Sweat: The Strange Science of Perspiration, explains why we smell, why we should pause before applying whole-body deodorant, and why we should chill a little when it comes to BO.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Much of the federal election campaign's focus has been on the U.S. But health care is always on the minds of Canadians. So what are the federal government's responsibilities when it comes to health care — especially when 6.5 million Canadians don't have a family doctor or a nurse practitioner? Amélie Quesnel-Vallée explains. She's a McGill professor and Canada Research Chair in Policies and Health Inequalities.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

A third of Canadians have at least one tattoo, but it's not without risk. While uncommon, tattoos can cause allergies and infections. Some studies have also found an association between tattoo ink and cancer. McGill University dermatologist Dr. Elena Netchiporouk explains how tattoos can cause an allergic reaction, and could potentially increase the risk of certain cancers, though more research is needed.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Nearly half of Canadians have experienced increased anxiety over the last month, according to a new survey from Mental Health Research Canada. Top reasons are the rising cost of living and political uncertainty in the U.S. University of Toronto Scarborough distinguished professor of psychology Zindel Segal explains why we tune into negative news and how we can manage stress brought on by uncontrollable situations.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

It's a stressful world out there. And one way some people quiet it down is taking medications like Lorazepam, Xanax, or Valium. They're called Benzodiazepines and their use and misuse has become a plotline in the popular TV series The White Lotus and The Pitt. University of British Columbia's clinical assistant professor and addictions medicine specialist Dr. Paxton Bach explains the benefits and risks of taking benzos. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, affects roughly 40 per cent of women by the age of 50, and some research suggests the number increases post-menopause. Toronto dermatologist Dr. Renee A. Beach explains why many women experience alopecia, and offers advice on how to slow down hair loss.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that provides energy to our muscles and brain, but it also comes in supplement form. It's long been used by athletes and bodybuilders, but now some research suggests it may also improve cognition. Darren Candow, professor and director of the University of Regina's Aging Muscle and Bone Health Laboratory, explains the science behind creatine's effect on muscles and bones, and why supplements could also help with mental stress.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Measles is on the rise, highlighting how a disease considered eliminated in Canada is making a comeback. Though there have long been sporadic cases, recent dramatic outbreaks are worrying people like infectious diseases specialist Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti. He explains why more people are getting measles and urges Canadians to get vaccinated to stay protected.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Many smokers turn to nicotine gums, patches or lozenges to try and kick the habit. But now, experts say that some non-smokers are using those products to boost attention and fine motor skills. They're doing so despite studies showing that nicotine is as addictive as cocaine or heroin. Steven Laviolette, a professor in the Schulich School of Medicine at Western University, explains what nicotine does to the brain. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

 If you're noticing people around you sniffling, coughing or sneezing, it could well be the flu. Public health data show that flu cases make up almost a quarter of all respiratory viruses circulating in Canada. Infectious diseases specialist Dr. Zain Chagla explains why cases are so high right now, and why you should consider getting a flu shot if you haven't already.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Chocolate isn't just a sweet treat, but could have some health benefits too. In a special Valentine's Day edition of The Dose, registered dietitian Anar Allidina breaks down which kind of chocolate is the healthiest, and some common health misconceptions around the delicious dessert.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. While most people infected with HPV recover, certain strains can increase the risk of cervical and other cancers, including oral, anal, and head and neck. Dr. Deborah Money, head of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of British Columbia, breaks down how HPV spreads and why sexually active people should consider getting vaccinated.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

A new Canadian Medical Association survey suggests that health misinformation is on the rise. Law professor and research director of the Health Law Institute at the University of Alberta Tim Caulfield gives examples of health and science misinformation, breaks down how to spot it, and offers tips on how we can talk to friends and family about misinformation they might believe is true.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

The U.S. surgeon general has called for cancer warnings on alcohol and Health Canada suggests a maximum of two drinks a week. As Dry January winds down, we ask: How can I cut back or even quit drinking alcohol? Dr. Peter Butt, an addiction medicine specialist and clinical associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan, explains how much alcohol is too much and breaks down how people can cut back.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the viruses responsible for the common cold. A spike in cases in China has made headlines, though the World Health Organization assures infection numbers are at expected levels. Dr. Satchan Takaya, division head for infectious diseases at the University of Saskatchewan, explains what HMPV is and how we can better communicate about infectious disease outbreaks abroad.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Cases of norovirus, a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhea, are on the rise in Canada and the U.S., and experts say there are easy steps we can take to protect ourselves. Dr. Zain Chagla, an infectious diseases specialist and associate professor at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., explains how norovirus spreads, as well as how steps like simple handwashing can keep us safe. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

For many, winter weather means seasonal affective disorder. If you already live with depression, you might notice your symptoms worsen. Research now shows that exercise — as well as therapy and medication — can help. Catherine Sabiston, a University of Toronto professor, director of the Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre and Canada Research Chair in physical activity and mental health, explains how exercise can alleviate the signs of depression.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts say that frequent use of social media is harming teens' health, and the Australian government recently passed a law banning it for kids under 16. Here in Canada, Quebec is debating whether to follow suit. Psychiatrist and UBC associate professor of medicine Dr. Shimi Kang says rather than an all-out ban, parents should talk with their kids and figure out a plan that's right for them.

H5N1 avian flu has now spread through dairy herds in 16 U.S. states. Close to 60 human cases have been reported in the U.S. and one here in Canada with a B.C. teen. Most have been caused through contact with infected animals, though a few sources are unclear. A new study in the journal Science says the virus might be just a single mutation away from more easily spreading between people. But infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Lynora Saxinger, says that while there's no reason to panic, we need to take precautions and get any exposure to sick animals checked out.

California is issuing warnings about consuming raw milk after bird flu was detected in some samples from a farm's milk products . But proponents of unpasteurized milk say that it's healthier than pasteurized milk, despite evidence to the contrary. Lawrence Goodridge, a food safety professor and director of the Canadian Research Institute for Food Safety at the University of Guelph, explains how pasteurization works, while debunking some common myths about raw milk.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Some communities in the U.S. are debating whether to remove fluoride from water supplies. And it's also happening in Canada. Officials recently voted to stop water fluoridation in Montreal's West Island. Dr. Gerry Uswak, a public health dentist and dental therapy professor at the University of Saskatchewan, explains how fluoride protects teeth, while addressing controversial research linking fluoride with a variety of medical conditions.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

You may have heard you should throw out your black plastic kitchen utensils. That's because it could be leaching harmful chemicals into our food. Tizazu Mekonnen, a professor of chemical engineering and Canada Research Chair in sustainable multiphase polymers, explains how black plastic in our home can be harmful to our health, and offers safer alternatives we can use.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Doctors across Canada say they're seeing a spike in cases of walking pneumonia. It's a milder form of pneumonia that doesn't often lead to hospitalization, but can still lead to serious issues like meningitis and encephalitis. Dr. Caroline Quach, a microbiologist and pediatric infectious diseases specialist, explains what could be fuelling cases and how to protect against infection.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Sex isn't always easy to talk about. And for women who have difficulties with orgasm and libido, it can be complicated if they haven't learned much about their genitals, or explored what turns them on. Lori Brotto, a professor and Canada Research Chair in women's sexual health at the University of British Columbia, says better sex starts with education and communication.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men, with an estimated one in eight men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime. John Lewis, a prostate cancer researcher and University of Alberta oncology professor, says better screening tools will help detect the disease more effectively in men.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

While breast self-exams haven't been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality, Dr. Mojola Omole — a general surgeon, breast surgical oncologist and president of the Black Physicians' Association of Ontario — says women should still perform self-exams to know what is normal, and when to seek care.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Human cases of rabies are not common in Canada, but experts say people still need to be cautious and avoid infection. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist at Toronto General Hospital and Dr. Scott Weese, a professor and veterinary internal medicine specialist at the Ontario Veterinary College, explain everything you need to know about rabies from the human, and the animal side.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

While most people think of acne as a skin condition for adolescents, it can also develop in adults. Dr. Kerri Purdy, head of dermatology at Dalhousie University, explains some of the risk factors for acne (genes and hormones, not necessarily diet) as well as the latest treatments.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

It's fall respiratory illness season and experts are once again urging Canadians to get vaccinated. Dr. Susy Hota, division head of infectious diseases at the University Health Network and Sinai Health in Toronto, breaks down the latest vaccines and treatments for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, while also talking about how everyone can stay safe this season. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Whooping cough cases are on the rise across Canada and vaccination rates in some provinces aren't keeping pace. Dr. Cora Constantinescu, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist in Calgary, explains how whooping cough is distinct from other respiratory infections, and how children and adults can stay safe.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Iron deficiency is relatively straightforward to treat, yet a significant percentage of Canadian women and girls live with the condition. Dr. Michelle Sholzberg, a hematologist at St. Michael's Hospital and director of hematology in the University of Toronto's department of medicine, explains how to diagnose iron deficiency and maintain our body's iron stores.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts know that men and women respond to heat differently, but we're still learning about how women respond to extreme temperatures. Dr. Amita Mahajan, an endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor at the University of Calgary, explains how extreme heat affects women's bodies and the role that hormones play in regulating their core temperatures.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts are warning Canadians about the risk posed by mosquitoes due to environmental factors like climate change. Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti, an infectious diseases specialist with Trillium Health Partners in Mississauga, Ont. explains what we need to know about mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile Virus.