The EMJ Podcast: Insights For Healthcare Professionals

  In this third and final deep-dive episode, Nicholas Simmonds highlights the importance of collaborative networks, such as the European Cystic Fibrosis Society (ECFS) Clinical Trials Network, in enabling global clinical trials. He also emphasises the central role of the patient voice in developing new therapies, using CFTR modulators as a key example. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:55 – ECFS Network 03:29 – Trial design 04:54 – Therapy frontiers 07:48 – Curative approaches 13:07 – Clinician message

How is cystic fibrosis diagnosis evolving? In this second deep dive, Nicholas Simmonds explores advances in diagnostic tools and shares his experience with the CF registry, highlighting its value as a powerful resource for tracking long-term treatment effectiveness. A must-listen for clinicians and anyone interested in how cystic fibrosis is diagnosed, and how progress is monitored over time. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:52 – Adulthood diagnosis 06:00 – Advanced diagnostics 10:37 – Survival variability 15:05 – CF Registry

Nicholas Simmonds joins host Saranya Ravindran for a deep dive into how adult cystic fibrosis (CF) care is evolving. Drawing on decades of experience, he discusses the major shifts in adult CF management, the vulnerable transition from paediatric to adult services, and strategies that ensure a smooth handover. Explore how longer survival brings new challenges, from fertility to mental health and emerging comorbidities, and why continuity of multidisciplinary care is more crucial than ever.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:15 – Adult care 04:12 – Smooth handover 10:10 – Evolving needs  

In this rapid-fire episode, Nicholas Simmonds answers key questions about cystic fibrosis (CF), from common misconceptions and the value of registry data to CF testing, and the transition from paediatric to adult care. Perfect for listeners short on time.

In the final part of this deep dive series, David Heymann looks ahead to future threats, from antimicrobial resistance to zoonotic spillovers, and the innovations that offer hope. He discusses next-generation diagnostics and vaccines, the rise of the One Health approach, and the need for better global financing and communication strategies. The episode closes with guidance for future public health leaders. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:40 – Next pandemic 02:29 – Today's threats 04:27 – Diagnostic innovations 05:47 – Vaccine innovations 06:21 – One Health 08:20 – Funding 10:38 – Addressing misinformation 15:42 – Advice for the next generation

In Part 2 of this deep dive series, David Heymann examines how global surveillance systems operate, why international coordination remains difficult, and how eradication efforts, such as those for polio, continue to strengthen health infrastructures. He reflects on the realities of responding in low-resource settings and the tension between rapid emergency interventions and sustainable system-building. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:00 – Disease surveillance 02:44 – International coordination 04:39 – Polio eradication 06:20 – Low-resource settings 08:46 – Rapid response versus capacity building 10:04 – Lessons learnt

In this special two-part episode of Onc Now, Catherine Glass takes you through the incredible line-up of guests from 2025. From award winners to pioneering clinicians and researchers, this podcast has spotlighted some of the leading voices in the field of oncology. Explore their most impactful insights and hear how recent advances are shaping clinical practice and future research.  Timestamps:       00:00 – Introduction  1:17 – Importance of palliative care  5:55 – Obesity and carcinogenesis  9:28 – Colorectal cancer advances  12:06 – Navigating fertility preservation  15:06 – ESGO 2025 reflections  17:44 – The future of cancer vaccines  22:18 – Impact of diet on prostate cancer 

David Heymann joins host Jonathan Sackier to reflect on the defining outbreaks that shaped modern epidemiology. He recounts early Ebola investigations, compares SARS-CoV-1 with SARS-CoV-2, and revisits the smallpox eradication campaign. This episode offers rare insights into the field experiences that transformed global preparedness. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:07 – Ebola 05:51 – SARS-CoV-1 versus SARS-CoV-2 08:11 – Smallpox 09:26 – Insights from the field 10:28 – Milestones

In this quickfire episode, David Heymann answers essential questions about outbreak response, pandemic preparedness, and the future of global health. From the biggest misconceptions about infectious diseases to the threats we're overlooking, this introduction sets the stage for the full series.

In the final instalment of this episode on paediatric cystic fibrosis, Lisa Saiman explores the global inequities that persist, noting how progress is hindered by limited access to advanced antimicrobial resistance prevention tools such as sequencing and pathogen identification. She emphasises the need for strengthened international collaboration to help bridge these gaps. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction  00:56 – Care inequities 03:30 – Global lessons 07:08 – Global collaborations 08:56 – Future directions

How can the threat of antimicrobial resistance be mitigated? In this second deep-dive episode, Lisa Saiman shares insights into the value of antibiotic stewardship and the nuance of microbial susceptibility testing in patients with cystic fibrosis. A must-listen for anyone curious about the overlap between cystic fibrosis and pathogen resistance. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 03:30 – Antimicrobial resistance threat 04:20 – Antibiotic stewardship 07:00 – Hospital lessons 10:00 – New antimicrobials

Lisa Saiman joins host Saranya Ravindran to discuss infection prevention in children with cystic fibrosis, exploring evolving hospital and clinical practices, key respiratory pathogens, and practical strategies to reduce infection risk at home. Learn about how the risk of infection affects the day-to-day lives of patients with cystic fibrosis. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:05 – Prevention importance 04:34 – International management 05:58 – Cross-infection risk 06:55 – COVID-19 lessons 07:43 – Home risk 10:57 – Childhood pathogens

In this rapid-fire episode, Lisa Saiman answers key questions about infections in children with cystic fibrosis, from everyday prevention measures to the threat of antimicrobial resistance. Perfect for listeners short on time but eager to boost their paediatric cystic fibrosis knowledge in just a few short minutes.

In this episode, Catherine Glass is joined by Anna Minchom, Clinical Scientist at the Drug Development Unit at the Royal Marsden Hospital and the Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK. In a highly informative discussion, Minchom explains the drug development process, key considerations in designing and conducting a trial, and the challenges in drug resistance.   Timestamps:      00:00 – Introduction 00:51 – Her journey into oncology 4:04 – Drug development 07:20 – Patient recruitment 08:45 – Challenges of drug resistance 11:20 – Early-phase clinical trials 13:06 – Navigating clinical trial outcomes 15:38 – Emerging technologies and therapies 17:42 – Side effects 19:09 – Three magic wishes

What does body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) look like in young people? In Part 3, Katharine Phillips discusses developmental differences in symptoms across children, adolescents, and diverse cultural or gender groups. She outlines early warning signs, risk factors that shape long-term outcomes, and how clinicians can distinguish BDD from related disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and social anxiety, a vital conversation for anyone involved in paediatric mental health.  Timestamps:  00:50 – Age differences  03:55 – Warning signs  07:15 – Social media  08:42 – Prognosis  10:17 – Obsessive-compulsive disorder  14:15 – Future of BDD 

In Part 2, Katharine Phillips breaks down what current evidence reveals about cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and pharmacological treatments for BDD. She shares the challenges of developing specialised CBT protocols, the role of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and combined therapy, and practical tools like mirror retraining. The episode also looks toward the future, highlighting emerging biological and digital interventions, including the potential of virtual reality.  Timestamps:  01:05 – Aesthetic treatments  07:00 – Suicide risk  09:55 – Gender differences  11:59 – CBT  17:00 – Medications  19:47 – Combined therapy  21:38 – Mirror retraining  25:00 – Digital approaches 

Katharine Phillips joins host Catherine Glass to explore how brain circuitry, heritability, and visual processing abnormalities contribute to body dysmorphic disorder. Drawing on decades of clinical research, she discusses chronicity, recovery patterns, and how surgeons can better identify patients seeking aesthetic procedures for BDD. This episode unpacks the neurobiological and behavioural roots behind the disorder.  Timestamps:  01:05 – Clinical features  02:25 – Neurobiology  05:10 - Interventions  08:50 – Longitudinal research  11:10 – Patient insight 

In this rapid-fire episode, Katharine Phillips answers essential questions about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), from early signs and common misdiagnoses to key medications, childhood prevalence, and what truly distinguishes BDD from everyday appearance concerns. A perfect 5-minute listen for clinicians and curious minds wanting a fast, high-impact overview of BDD.

Rockstroh examines emerging challenges in HIV care, including COVID-19 and mpox, novel therapies, and lessons from Europe's care model. Explore the possibilities of shifting from disease management towards long-term remission and functional cure. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:45 – COVID-19 lessons 05:02 – Mpox challenges 07:42 – Novel therapies 12:56 – Improving care 15:39 – Remission or cure?

From HIV/hepatitis co-infections to haemophiliac cohorts, Rockstroh shares strategies for managing complex patient populations. Discover how antiretroviral therapy, multidisciplinary care, and lifestyle interventions work together to optimise outcomes. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:17 – HIV/hepatitis co-infection 05:43 – Cardiovascular risk 08:06 – Haemophiliac cohorts 11:47 – Multidisciplinary care

In this special two-part episode of Hema Now, Catherine Glass takes you through the incredible line-up of guests from 2025. From congress presidents to pioneering clinicians and researchers, this podcast has spotlighted some of the leading voices in the field of Hematology. Explore their most impactful insights and hear how recent advances are shaping clinical practice and future research. Timestamps:       00:00 – Introduction  01:04 – Advances in lymphoma and transplant  06:15 – Epigenetics in leukaemia  08:46 – Multiple myeloma care today  11:49 – Metabolism's role in leukaemia  14:51 – Myeloid malignancy biology and treatment  16:50 – New therapies for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia  21:44 – Outro 

AMJ Podcast | Episode 4 Capivasertib in the Clinic: Strategies to Manage Adverse Events This content was funded by AstraZeneca, and is intended for US Healthcare Professionals. Expert opinions are shared in this program and may differ from the approved capivasertib (TRUQAP®) labeling. Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information when making treatment decisions.     Indication and Usage  Capivasertib (TRUQAP®) in combination with fulvestrant is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer with one or more PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN alteration as detected by an FDA-approved test following progression on at least one endocrine-based regimen in the metastatic setting or recurrence on or within 12 months of completing adjuvant therapy.     Description In this practical, case-based discussion, a breast oncology pharmacist and nurse practitioner walk through how they anticipate and manage the most common adverse events seen with capivasertib in HR-positive/HER2-negative advanced breast cancer. Drawing on real-world clinic workflows, they share stepwise approaches to counseling, prophylaxis, and early intervention for diarrhea, rash, and hyperglycemia, including when to escalate monitoring or treatment and how to coordinate roles across the care team.  You'll hear communication scripts, tips for using tools such as stool diaries and home glucometers, and strategies to keep patients on therapy safely and confidently.   Chapters 00:00 – 03:24 | Introduction 03:24 – 05:18 | When to consider capivasertib 05:18 – 08:51 | Introducing adverse events 08:51 – 16:18 | Diarrhea management 16:18 – 20:35 | Rash management 20:35 – 25:07 | Hyperglycemia management 25:07 – 27:31 | Care team best practices 27:31 – 31:18 | Top Tips & Takeaways   Speakers: Heather Moore –  Breast Oncology Pharmacist, Duke University Medical Center Sarah Donohue – Breast Oncology Nurse Practitioner, UCSF Health Breast Care Center     Select Safety Information About capivasertib (TRUQAP®) tablets TRUQAP is contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity to TRUQAP or any of its components. Serious adverse reactions include hyperglycemia, including diabetic ketoacidosis and fatal outcomes; diarrhea; and cutaneous adverse reactions. Monitor fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1C levels regularly. May cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Among the 355 patients who received TRUQAP in CAPItello-291, the most common (≥20%) adverse reactions, including laboratory abnormalities, were diarrhea (72%), cutaneous adverse reactions (58%), increased random glucose (57%), decreased lymphocytes (47%), decreased hemoglobin (45%), increased fasting glucose (37%), nausea and fatigue (35% each), decreased leukocytes (32%), increased triglycerides (27%), decreased neutrophils (23%), increased creatinine (22%), vomiting (21%), and stomatitis (20%). Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information for TRUQAP.

Jürgen Rockstroh discusses decades of progress in European HIV care, including treatment access, patient outcomes, early diagnosis, and the role of pre-exposure prophylaxis. Explore how European societies have standardised care to improve outcomes across diverse healthcare systems. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:57 – Key developments 03:18 – Earlier diagnosis 05:31 – Long-acting PrEP 07:58 – European societies 10:38 – Shifting clinical practice

In this rapid-fire episode, Jürgen Rockstroh answers key questions about HIV care, from common misconceptions and transformative developments to policy priorities and the European approach to treatment. A concise, high-value overview in just a few minutes.

From CFTR modulators to gene therapy, what's next in cystic fibrosis research? Peter Mogayzel examines future therapies, ongoing access challenges, and the crucial link between advocacy, innovation, and global health equity in cystic fibrosis care. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:05 - CFTR modulators 03:35 – Anti-inflammatory drugs 04:18 – mRNA therapy 04:53 – Side effects 07:13 – Access to care 08:37 – Exercise 10:00 – Final thoughts

What defines excellence in cystic fibrosis clinical care? Peter Mogayzel discusses the latest therapeutic guidelines, managing pulmonary exacerbations, the role of home monitoring, and how multidisciplinary teams work together to support patients in leading full, active lives. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:41 – Key guidelines 01:54 – Multisystem disease 02:32 – Pulmonary exacerbations 04:04 – Chronic medications 05:37 – Home monitoring 08:15 – Multidisciplinary care

How did the USA build one of the world's most comprehensive cystic fibrosis care systems? In Part 1 of our deep dive, Peter Mogayzel explores the development of national cystic fibrosis centres, the impact of newborn screening, and how a strong foundation in care standards transformed outcomes across generations. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:38 – Care models 02:40 – Early screening 04:20 – CF Foundation 05:33 – What's changed?

In this quickfire introduction, Peter J. Mogayzel answers fast questions about the evolution of cystic fibrosis care in the USA, from early screening and survival milestones to innovation, policy, and equitable access. A perfect primer on where cystic fibrosis care stands today.

In the second episode of this three-part series, we delve into the science behind Refractory Chronic Cough (RCC), focusing on the role of neuronal hypersensitivity and how the cough reflex becomes dysregulated.1 Join leading experts as they explain the neurobiology of RCC, discuss the latest research, and share practical insights for identifying RCC in clinical practice.

Could 'gravity prescriptions' become a new form of therapy? Spiegel explores the concept of bio-gravitational medicine, from flotation tanks to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)-developed rehabilitation technology, and how virtual reality may help patients simulate weightlessness. He also predicts what the next decade of gravity research will bring.Timestamps:01:20 – Bio-gravitational medicine explained04:15 – Gravi-type09:08 – Anti gravity devices11:09 – Virtual reality  

How does gravity shape our internal ecosystems? Spiegel explains the emerging science linking the microbiome, serotonin, and balance. He discusses how microgravity alters gut health in astronauts and why posture could affect digestion and mood on Earth.Timestamps:00:59 – Microbiome and balance03:36 – Microgravity gut effects06:25 – Serotonin and gravity link09:10 – Tools for studying gut-gravity

In this first deep dive, Spiegel unpacks his bold hypothesis: that irritable bowel syndrome and similar disorders could stem from gravity intolerance. He discusses his self-experiment simulating stronger gravity, the role of core strength in symptom relief, and how altitude affects gastrointestinal conditions. Timestamps:01:04 – What is gravity intolerance? 02:55 – Gravity and chronic conditions 06:18 – Gravity and irritable bowel syndrome 09:29 – Self experiment 12:37 – Gravity's effect on pregnancy 16:43 – How should patients and clinicians think about gravity?

Brennan Spiegel answers rapid-fire questions about the effects of gravity on the human body and mind. From fatigue to irritable bowel syndrome to mental health, learn why gravity might be one of medicine's most overlooked forces, and how virtual reality is helping researchers study its effects.

In this episode of Hema Now, Diana Passaro from the Institut Cochin in Paris, France, shares her insights into tumour dissemination and the infiltration of the central nervous system by leukaemic cells. She discusses the mechanisms that regulate cell‑cell interactions within the microenvironment and how emerging tools like spatial transcriptomics are shaping the next generation of leukaemia research.  Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction 01:15 – Origin of interest 03:30 – Influences on research 05:30 – Work highlights 07:09 – Leukaemia challenges 08:50 – Cell–microenvironment interaction 11:55 – Science at the interfaces 15:20 – Cross-disciplinary work 16:50 – Tumour spread context 19:50 – Innovations and technology 21:01 – Future of research 23:31 – Final takeaways 

In this final episode, Ghatak and Olivo reflect on leadership, mentorship, and the legacy of innovation in diagnostics. Discover what drives them to keep pushing the boundaries of healthcare technology. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:45 - Good leadership 05:04 - Advice for young professionals 07:34 - Diagnostic gaps 09:34 - Maintaining motivation 10:33 - ImmunoProfile legacy

From lab to clinic, how do diagnostic breakthroughs make a real-world impact? Ghatak and Olivo explore bridging the gap between development and implementation, managing risk, and balancing innovation with ethics in patient care. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 00:43 – Implementation challenges 02:40 – Strategic risk 03:46 – Trial and error 06:21 – Ethical dilemmas 09:46 – Lessons learned 11:00 – Successful innovation 13:12 – 'Good' diagnostics

In this episode, Jonathan Sackier speaks with Brian Rini, Chief of Clinical Trials at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA, and an internationally known leader in genitourinary oncology. The discussion explores the evolution of kidney cancer treatment, highlighting breakthroughs in immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and precision oncology. Rini shares insights from landmark clinical trials, his passion for translational research, and the challenges of broadening trial access. He also reflects on the future of the field, including the role of artificial intelligence, biomarker-driven strategies, and his hopes for advancing patient outcomes worldwide.  Timestamps:    00:00 – Introduction  01:10 – Key insights into kidney cancer  03:50 – Brian's career journey  07:40 – One piece of career advice   10:40 – Diagnosis of kidney cancer   12:04 – Treatment landscape for kidney cancer  17:00 – Landmark trials in renal cell carcinoma   19:18 – Precision-based approach in trial design and selection  23:40 – Translational research  26:35 – Clinical trial recruitment  30:25 – Diversity in kidney cancer research  32:27 – ESMO 2025 highlights  35:00 – Potential of AI in trial design and recruitment  36:43 – Uncovered areas for research  38:12 – Brian's three wishes for healthcare   

In this EMJ podcast, experts discuss challenges within endometriosis care and cryoablation as an emerging treatment option. Navigating disease burden, current management limitations, the promise of precision imaging and minimally invasive techniques, the conversation highlights early clinical experience, ongoing research, and future directions for integrating cryoablation into endometriosis care.

How can clinicians make a difference? Woodruff outlines practical steps, screening tools, and advocacy approaches that can help reduce patients' exposure to harmful chemicals. She also reflects on policy progress and shares trusted resources for environmental health education.   Timestamps: 01:16 – Action and change  06:39 – How to reduce patients' toxic exposure  08:27 – Practical tools and screening  13:46 – Advocacy and policy 

Which communities bear the brunt of pollution during pregnancy and early life? Woodruff explores the links between socioeconomic status, genetics, and environmental exposure, illustrating how 'double jeopardy' and environmental injustice compound health risks for vulnerable families. Timestamps: 01:36 – Pre-term birth 06:07 – Gut microbiome 11:37 – Genetic factors 12:59 – Double jeopardy   14:26 – Environmental injustice  14:54 – Cancer valley 

How is diagnostic innovation evolving across industries and institutions? In Part 1, Sudip Ghatak and Paul Olivo discuss the drivers of innovation, from scientific discovery to clinical need, and reveal the most disruptive changes happening in diagnostics today. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:16 – Unpacking ImmunoProfile 05:50 – Testing for who? 08:03 – Immunity studies 10:31 – Startups 12:00 – Diagnostic innovation 15:00 – Disruptive changes

In this fast-paced episode, host Jonathan Sackier introduces ImmunoProfile's Sudip Ghatak and Paul Olivo. Discover their motivations, myths about diagnostics, and how curiosity fuels innovation in just a few minutes.  

Tracey Woodruff breaks down how pollutants, from pesticides to plastics, affect pregnancy and early development. She discusses evolving research on replacement chemicals, the biological mechanisms behind toxic exposure, and the latest findings that alarm (and motivate) scientists today. 

In this rapid-fire Q&A, Woodruff shares her top environmental health concerns for pregnancy and childhood. From phthalates and plastics to practical tips for clinicians, she highlights why even small exposures matter, and how awareness is the first step to prevention. 

This podcast has been supported by Novartis In this new podcast episode, Lisa Machado, a patient advocate diagnosed with CML in 2008 and clinician and CML expert Jeffrey Lipton, sit down to explore: How patients and physicians can navigate the shock of diagnosis and information overload. Why aligning treatment goals goes beyond molecular milestones to focus on quality of life. Practical ways to foster trust, encourage open conversations, and strengthen shared decisions. Whether you're supporting newly diagnosed patients or reassessing long-term treatment, this conversation offers fresh insights to improve communication, satisfaction, and outcomes in CML.

This promotional podcast has been initiated and funded by Merck, and a Merck product will be discussed. The intended audience is multiple sclerosis healthcare professionals in the UK only. The comments of the speakers in this podcast reflect their own opinions and are not necessarily those of Merck.

What happens after GLP-1s? Holly Wyatt discusses medication exit strategies, physiological adaptation, and future hope in obesity care. Learn how to transition from medication to mastery with purpose and self-efficacy.  Timestamps:  00:40 – GLP-1s  03:36 – Stopping GLP-1s  09:13 – Challenges  09:56 – Exit strategies  11:17 – Looking ahead