Podcasts about Overdiagnosis

What if the diagnosis you fear most is also the one most likely to be wrong and the treatment that follows causes more damage than the disease ever would?In this episode, Dr. Stephen Petteruti highlights how the prostate is often overdiagnosed and overtreated. The issue is not the PSA test itself. It's how the result is interpreted and what happens next.Dr. Stephen breaks down the cycle: arbitrary PSA cutoffs, fear-based referrals, and biopsies that detect dormant cells and trigger aggressive treatments. These pathways can lead to real consequences without clear evidence of improving survival. Instead, he emphasizes monitoring trends, using imaging, and focusing on overall health rather than reacting to a single number.If longevity and clarity matter to you, take a step back before your next test or procedure. Tune in to the full episode of The Overdiagnosis Trap: Why Common Prostate Screenings Often Lead to Unnecessary Harm.Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on your favorite platforms.Dr. Stephen Petteruti is a board-certified physician specializing in longevity-focused, integrative medicine. He works with men navigating prostate cancer, testosterone and hormone health, aging, and performance using proactive, evidence-informed strategies grounded in real clinical practice. His approach prioritizes preserving function, strength, and quality of life while helping patients make clear, informed decisions beyond reactive, fear-driven care.Learn more: https://www.drstephenpetteruti.com/ Learn more: https://www.intellectualmedicine.com/ Connect with Dr. Petteruti on:⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/dr.stephenpetteruti/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/dr.stephenpetteruti⁠ Subscribe to Intellectual Medicine on:Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/DrPetterutiApplePodcast Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/DrPetterutiSpotifyPodcast Disclaimer:The content presented in this video reflects the opinions and clinical experience of Dr. Stephen Petteruti and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from your personal healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan.Produced by https://www.BroadcastYourAuthority.com 

Calling ADHD “brain diabetes” fuels overmedication of children. Cassels breaks down the myth and the marketing. #ADHDDrugs #Overdiagnosis #PharmaSpin #HealthTalks

Probiotics may help a damaged microbiome, but most screenings and guidelines are pharma-driven, leading to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. #OverScreening #Probiotics #MedicalBias #HealthTalks

In this solo episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons takes on one of the most accepted messages in women's health and dismantles it with decades of evidence. Routine yearly mammography screening does not hold up when you actually read the trials. Dr. Jenn walks through the WISDOM trial, the Cochrane Review, the Canadian Breast Cancer Screening Study, and the brand new 2026 American College of Physicians guidelines to make the case that one-size-fits-all screening is not just outdated, it is causing real harm.She also takes on the estrogen myth that has left millions of women suffering through hot flashes, bone loss, brain fog, and lost quality of life for decades. A 1.8 million woman study and the Women's Health Initiative say estrogen is not the villain. The real culprit may be something millions of women are still being prescribed today.If you have ever been told to just get your mammogram every year without a single conversation about the risks or what the data actually shows, this is the episode you have been waiting for.What You'll LearnWhat the 2026 American College of Physicians guidelines say about annual mammography and why radiology groups do not want you to hear itWhat the WISDOM trial found when women received fewer mammograms  and why the results challenge everything we have been toldWhat the Cochrane Review and Canadian Breast Cancer Screening Study concluded after studying hundreds of thousands of women over decadesWhy up to 50 percent of screen-detected cancers may have never grown, spread, or threatened a woman's life and what that means for how we treat themWhy estrogen alone has never been shown to cause breast cancer and what the data actually implicates insteadThe difference between synthetic progestins and bioidentical progesterone and why that distinction could change every conversation about hormones and breast cancerWhat BRCA mutation carriers need to know about hormone replacement therapy after risk-reducing surgeryWhat smarter, safer, individualized breast cancer screening actually looks likeEpisode Timeline00:00 Introduction01:08 This Is an Informed Consent Episode04:00 The WISDOM Trial and the End of One-Size-Fits-All Screening08:30 Fewer Mammograms, No More Advanced Cancers11:41 Why Adding MRI Led to More Biopsies and Zero Benefit15:00 The Only Endpoint That Actually Matters17:30 What the Cochrane Review Actually Found19:30 The Number Every Woman Deserves to Hear23:00 The Canadian Breast Cancer Screening Study27:00 What Overdiagnosis Really Means31:00 The 2026 American College of Physicians Guidelines36:03 The Estrogen Myth41:00 The Women's Health Initiative Unpacked49:00 Birth Control, Progestins, and Breast Cancer Risk53:00 Progestins Are Not Progesterone57:00 BRCA Mutation Carriers and HRT: What the 2026 JAMA Data Shows01:03:00 The Future of Breast Cancer ScreeningStudies Mentioned in This EpisodeThe WISDOM Trial — JAMAThe Cochrane Mammography Review — CochraneThe Canadian National Breast Screening Study: 25 Year Follow-up — BMJ 2014ACP Breast Cancer Screening Guidance Statement — Annals of Internal Medicine 2026Cracks in the Estrogen Carcinogenesis of Breast Cancer — Journal of Clinical Oncology 2026Hormonal Contraception and Breast Cancer Risk — NEJM 2017Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer: Women's Health Initiative — JAMA Oncology 2020HRT After Oophorectomy and Breast Cancer Risk in BRCA Carriers — JAMA Network Open 2026To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with Dr. Jenn visit: https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/clarity-callTo get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuideTo purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off.Connect with Dr. Jenn:Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmonsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

AUA Secretary, Dr. David Penson, previews the AUA2026 Keynote Ramon Guiteras Lecture with Dr. H. Gilbert Welch, exploring overdiagnosis, cancer screening, and the unintended harms of finding too much. From PSA testing to incidental imaging findings, this episode challenges how—and when—we look for disease.

Dr. Allen Frances discusses how AI chatbots can provide effective support for everyday stress and mild symptoms, with tens of millions using them, but warns they can be dangerous for vulnerable groups—especially the very young, the very old, the socially isolated, and people with severe mental illness—potentially contributing to psychosis, suicide, or eating disorders. He argues harm is driven by chatbots being programmed to be pleasing and validating to maximize screen time, creating dependency and "echo chambers," and highlights major privacy risks and manipulation potential given extensive data collection and weak safeguards. Frances advocates a hybrid model where therapists and patients train chatbots as assistants aligned with treatment goals, and cautions about industry profit motives, limited regulation, scams, political propaganda, and broader societal risks. He also explains autism's overdiagnosis since DSM-IV's expansion (Asperger's/autism spectrum) and describes ADHD and autism as current fad diagnoses amplified by services and social media.   Dr. Allen Frances is a psychiatrist, author, and leading voice on psychiatric diagnosis, mental health, and the risks of overmedicalization. He is widely known for his work on the DSM-IV and for his book Saving Normal, which challenges the overdiagnosis and overtreatment of everyday life struggles. In this episode, he joins Dr. Mike Hart to break down the growing impact of AI chatbots on mental health, therapy, privacy, and clinical care. He explains when chatbot support may be helpful, why vulnerable users can be harmed, how AI could reshape psychotherapy, and why privacy with chatbots may be an illusion. He also discusses the overdiagnosis of autism and ADHD, the role of social media in self-diagnosis, and why false labels can change how people see themselves and their future. Books & Articles Saving Normal — Allen Frances Allen Frances mentions his book near the end of the episode. https://www.harpercollins.com/products/saving-normal-allen-frances Allen Frances — Psychiatric Times Articles He mentions his columns in Psychiatric Times about chatbots and psychiatry. https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/authors/allen-frances-md 1984 — George Orwell Referenced when comparing AI chatbots to "Big Brother." https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/326569/1984-by-george-orwell-with-a-foreword-by-thomas-pynchon/ AI Tools & Companies Mentioned ChatGPT / OpenAI Discussed throughout the episode as a major AI chatbot example. https://chatgpt.com/ Claude / Anthropic Mentioned as one of the safer chatbot companies. https://www.anthropic.com/ Grok / xAI Mentioned during the discussion on chatbot safety. https://x.ai/grok Character.AI Mentioned as an AI companion/chatbot platform. https://character.ai/ Replika Mentioned as another AI companion/chatbot app. https://replika.com/ Signal Mentioned during the privacy and encryption discussion. https://signal.org/ TikTok Mentioned during the discussion of autism, ADHD, and self-diagnosis trends. https://www.tiktok.com/ AI Regulation & News References EU AI Act Mentioned during the discussion of Europe's stronger AI regulation. https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/regulatory-framework-ai Australia Social Media Age Restrictions Referenced when discussing age limits and children's chatbot/social media exposure. https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions Kaiser Mental Health Workers AI Strike Mentioned during the discussion of therapists being concerned about AI replacing care. https://apnews.com/article/kaiser-mental-health-therapists-ai-2d05d37fd8be8f05491f0f15d97a78af Psychiatry, Diagnosis & Mental Health References DSM-5-TR Referenced in the discussion of DSM-IV, Asperger's, autism spectrum, and diagnostic expansion. https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm Autism Spectrum Disorder — NIMH Useful support link for the autism overdiagnosis discussion. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd ADHD — CDC Referenced during the discussion of ADHD as a common modern diagnosis. https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/ SSRIs — FDA Mentioned during the discussion about antidepressant prescribing. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/selective-serotonin-reuptake-inhibitors-ssris-information Hippocratic Oath Referenced through the idea of "first do no harm." https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hippocratic-oath Historical / Therapy References ELIZA Chatbot Referenced as the first chatbot and an early example of people bonding with machine-generated responses. https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/365153.365168 Carl Rogers Mentioned because ELIZA was designed to imitate a Rogerian-style psychotherapist. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Carl-Rogers   Show Notes   00:00 Welcome to the Hart2Heart Podcast 00:49 Benefits vs Dangers 01:52 Engagement and Validation Trap 03:21 Who Is Most at Risk 04:19 When Chatbots Help 05:43 Hybrid Therapy Future 06:52 How to Train Assistants 08:47 Therapists Must Adapt 09:33 Healthcare Replacement Nightmare 11:15 Human Touch vs AI Limits 12:41 Suicide Risk and Lawsuits 14:43 SSRIs and Primary Care 16:56 Everyday Use and Vulnerables 19:12 Regulation and Kids 22:03 AI Power and Resource Costs 23:43 Deepfake Psychiatrists 24:30 Most Dystopian Takeover 25:50 AI Dependency Dangers 27:11 Why No One Pauses AI 28:41 EU Regulation Falling Behind 29:36 AI Hacking Breakthrough 30:38 Chatbot Privacy Myth 32:53 Protecting Yourself Online 35:26 Echo Chambers Manipulation 37:17 Scams Deepfakes Politics 40:44 Autism Overdiagnosis DSM 44:13 ADHD Fad Diagnosis Risks 45:53 Wrap Up Resources   The Hart2Heart podcast is hosted by family physician Dr. Michael Hart, who is dedicated to cutting through the noise and uncovering the most effective strategies for optimizing health, longevity, and peak performance. This podcast dives deep into evidence-based approaches to hormone balance, peptides, sleep optimization, nutrition, psychedelics, supplements, exercise protocols, leveraging sunlight, and de-prescribing pharmaceuticals — using medications only when absolutely necessary. Beyond health science, we explore the intersection of public health and politics, exposing how policy decisions shape our health landscape and what actionable steps people can take to reclaim control over their well-being. Guests range from out-of-the-box thinking physicians such as Dr. Casey Means (author of "Good Energy") and Dr. Roger Sehult (Medcram lectures) to public health experts such as Dr. Jay Bhattacharya (Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Dr. Marty Mckary  (Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and high-profile names such as  Zuby and Mark Sisson (Primal Blueprint and Primal Kitchen). If you're ready to take control of your health and performance, this podcast is for you.We cut through the jargon and deliver practical, no-BS advice that you can implement in your daily life, empowering you to make positive changes for your well-being. Connect with Dr. Mike Hart Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart

The panel explores the invention of psychiatric diagnoses and overdiagnosis of ADHD, especially in boys, shaped by drug company interests. #ADHDCritique #PsychiatricDrugs #MentalHealthTruth #HealthTalks

More people are being labelled with medical conditions than ever before. Diagnoses of autism, ADHD, allergies, and long COVID have skyrocketed - but are we actually getting less healthy?  In this episode, neurologist Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan speaks to Dr Güneş Taylor about an impending crisis of overdiagnosis. Drawing on histories of real people, as well as decades of clinical practice and the latest medical research, O'Sullivan argues her research indicates that ordinary life experiences, bodily imperfections, sadness and social anxiety are being subsumed into the category of medical disorder. In other words: we are not getting sicker – we are attributing more to sickness. Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan is a neurologist and writer. She is the author of The Age of Diagnosis, as well as previous books including It's All in Your Head and The Sleeping Beauties. Dr Güneş Taylor is a science broadcaster and Fellow at the Centre for Reproductive Health. If you'd like to become a Member and get access to all our full conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events  ...  Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Over time, my perspective on psychiatry has changed in the direction of greater skepticism." What happens to your perspective after five decades in psychiatry—treating tens of thousands of patients, leading major institutions, and authoring dozens of books and papers? On this episode of Quick Takes, I find out as I sit down with Dr. Joel Paris, former editor-in-chief of the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, chair of the Department of Psychiatry at McGill University, and self‑proclaimed skeptic. In this episode, Dr. Paris: critiques the DSM and ICD diagnostic systems challenges serotonin-based explanations for depression expresses skepticism toward both psychotherapy and biological psychiatry argues that adult ADHD, autism, and trauma are over‑diagnosed suggests that CBT is over‑marketed and shares several other controversial opinions THANKS FOR LISTENING!Quick Takes is a production of the Center for Addiction and Mental Health. You can find links to the relevant content mentioned in the show and accessible transcripts of all the episodes we produce online at CAMH.ca and on the CAMH Global Learning Academy.Follow CAMH Education on X (formerly known as Twitter) @camhEduFollow and subscribe to Reading of the Week where, every week, Dr. David Gratzer reviews research papers from the world of psychiatry.

A diagnostic label should be a flashlight that helps you find your way, not a cage that defines who you are allowed to be. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Dr. Alastair Santhouse, a consultant neuropsychiatrist at London's Maudsley Hospital with nearly 30 years of clinical and leadership experience. From treating complex physical-mental health intersections to serving at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Dr. Santhouse has spent his career at the front lines of human distress. He is the author of “Head First” (2021) and his timely new work, “No More Normal: Mental Health in an Age of Over-Diagnosis” (2025). Together, we explore the modern "diagnostic creep" and the risks of over-medicalizing the natural spectrum of human experience. Dr. Santhouse offers a vital perspective on how psychiatry can pivot to better serve those with severe illness while restoring personal agency and a healthier societal understanding of what it means to be "normal."   For more information about “No More Normal: Mental Health in an Age of Over-Diagnosis” by Dr. Alastair Santhouse, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/No-More-Normal-Mental-Over-Diagnosis-ebook/dp/B0DB14K81B For more information about Dr. Alastair Santhouse, please visit: https://www.alastairsanthouse.com For more information about Alastair's other books, please visit: https://www.alastairsanthouse.com/author

They expose how colonoscopies and statins are promoted using flawed logic, surrogate markers, and misleading benefit claims. #CholesterolMyths #Colonoscopies #EvidenceBasedCare #HealthTalks

Dr. Raymond Barnhill on Diagnostic Drift, Uncertainty, and the MPATH-Dx V2.0 Approach to Melanocytic LesionsIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine interviews Dr. Raymond Barnhill, a world-recognized dermatopathology expert known for work on diagnostically challenging melanocytic lesions, melanoma pathology references, and contributions to WHO skin tumor classification and AJCC melanoma staging. Dr. Barnhill shares career anecdotes and key communities at Yale and in Boston, collaborations with numerous melanoma leaders, and the founding of the North American Melanoma Pathology Study Group and the International Melanoma Pathology Study Group, as well as participation in the NIH-funded MPATH Study Group. The discussion focuses on overdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, and diagnostic discordance in melanocytic lesions, including evidence of diagnostic drift toward calling more lesions melanoma over time and the overlap between melanoma criteria and atypical/dysplastic nevi. He describes MPATH research, explains the revised MPATH-Dx V2.0 schema, explicitly recognizing uncertainty along a continuum rather than a strict benign/malignant threshold. He emphasizes practical diagnostic approaches including measuring lesion size (noting a 4 mm threshold associated with conventional dysplastic nevi and increasing concern at larger sizes), focusing on key architectural features (junctional nest variation/disarray and lentiginous proliferation), using nuclear size relative to keratinocyte nuclei (including a 1.5× threshold and counting atypical cells per high-power field) while accounting for site-specific pitfalls such as scalp nevi. The conversation also covers “gestalt” versus systematic review, the importance of due diligence using full clinical and morphologic information before ancillary testing, and cautions against overreliance on immunohistochemistry or molecular tests. Dr. Barnhill closes with career advice ends with a message that setbacks can be opportunities for growth.00:00 Welcome + Meet Dr. Raymond Barnhill (Dermatopathology Legend)01:51 Career Origins & Melanoma Pathology Mentors (Yale → Boston)03:59 Building Melanoma Pathology Study Groups (North American & International)05:57 Overdiagnosis, Diagnostic Drift & Why Discordance Happens09:43 Inside the MPATH Study: Measuring Interobserver & Intraobserver Agreement11:39 MPATH-Dx V2.0 Explained: Standardized Classes & Treatment Guidance13:59 Redefining “Low-Risk” Melanoma: Stringent pT1a Criteria + Embracing Uncertainty18:47 Practical Grading Tips: Lesion Size, Architecture & Nuclear Atypia Thresholds22:42 Gestalt vs Due Diligence: Avoiding Traps + Using IHC/Molecular Wisely (PRAME)28:39 Career Advice: Passion, Mentors, Community + Final Reflections

Breast cancer screening is often treated as a given. Mammograms are framed as routine, early detection as unquestionably life-saving, and following guidelines as the responsible choice. But what if the full picture is more complicated?In this episode of hol+, Dr. Taz sits down with integrative oncologist and breast surgeon Dr. Jenn Simmons, author of The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, to explore what breast cancer screening data actually shows, where common narratives may oversimplify reality, and how statistics can sometimes be misunderstood by both patients and providers.Together, they discuss the difference between screening and diagnostic imaging, why detecting more cancers does not always mean fewer deaths, and how concepts like overdiagnosis and lead-time bias shape our interpretation of outcomes. Dr. Jenn also explains how breast cancer behaves differently from many other cancers, why progression is not always linear, and what tumor markers like ER, PR, HER2, and triple-negative really indicate.The conversation expands beyond imaging into a whole-body view of breast health, touching on inflammation, immune function, metabolic health, toxic burden, stress, and lifestyle as factors that shape cancer risk and recovery. Rather than promoting fear or urgency, this episode focuses on helping listeners understand their bodies, ask better questions, and make informed decisions with clarity.This episode is for anyone who wants a deeper understanding of breast cancer screening, feels overwhelmed by conflicting guidance, or wants to approach breast health with more nuance and less panic.About Dr. Jenn SimmonsDr. Jenn Simmons is an integrative oncologist, breast surgeon, and founder of Real Health MD. She was Philadelphia's first fellowship-trained breast surgeon and spent nearly two decades leading one of the region's top breast programs before transitioning into integrative oncology.Drawing from her experience in conventional cancer care and her own health journey, Dr. Simmons now focuses on whole-body approaches to breast health, cancer prevention, and recovery, including metabolic health, inflammation, immune function, lifestyle medicine, and root-cause healing. She is the author of The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, a patient-centered resource designed to help women better understand their diagnosis, ask informed questions, and navigate treatment decisions with clarity rather than fear.Order the BookThe Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer Stay Connected:Connect further to Hol+ at https://holplus.co/- Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of hol+.Follow Dr. Jenn SimmonsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmonsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmonsWebsite: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/Follow Dr. Taz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtazmd/https://www.instagram.com/liveholplus/Subscribe to the audio podcast: https://holplus.transistor.fm/subscribeSubscribe to the video podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DrTazMD/podcastsGet your copy of The Hormone Shift: Balance Your Body and Thrive Through Midlife and MenopauseHost & Production TeamHost: Dr. Taz; Produced by ClipGrowth.com (Producer: Pat Gostek)00:00 Swedish trial claim and overdiagnosis framing 00:52 Why this became a part two conversation 03:25 Reframing screening narratives and medical training gaps 04:39 Why Dr. Simmons questions mammograms as a screening tool 06:06 Origins of screening programs and “invitation to screen” bias 07:12 Relative risk vs absolute numbers example (4 vs 5 per 1,000) 08:49 Overdiagnosis explained with a vivid analogy 09:50 Autopsy-study claim and the “microscopic cancer” idea 12:11 Swedish trial claim revisited: more diagnoses, same deaths 13:38 Downstream harms: callbacks, biopsies, overtreatment 15:04 Lead-time bias and survival statistics explained 16:44 Dr. Simmons' view on the founder's regret narrative 18:16 Switzerland headline clarified and what actually changed 20:10 Cautionary stories and aggressive cancers discussion 22:07 Why breast cancer does not always progress linearly 24:21 Buckets: DCIS, invasive, inflammatory, receptor types 26:15 Clinical vs subclinical disease approach 28:25 Long-term tradeoffs and “forgotten woman” after treatment 32:15 What ER PR HER2 mean biologically and system incentives 35:33 Testosterone discussion and prevention claim presented 42:15 Hormones after breast cancer and the 4-year “reintroduction” idea 44:29 Triple negative: environment, toxicity, immune system focus 49:19 What to do next: pause, exceptions, whole-body workup 52:32 Prevention and breast health approach begins 53:24 At-home tears test explanation (as discussed) 56:24 Detox basics and why sweating is emphasized 59:34 Imaging preferences for screening and what to do if limited access

Alan Cassels and Pam Popper define disease mongering, critique cholesterol myths, and explain how medical systems expand diagnoses to sell more treatment. #DiseaseMongering #InformedConsent #MedicalOverreach #HealthTalks

In Conversation with Dr. Wolfgang Weyers: The Complexities of Dermatopathology DiagnosisIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine welcomes Dr. Wolfgang Weyers, a highly respected dermatopathologist and author, to discuss his experience and perspectives on medical diagnosis. Dr. Weyers shares a personal anecdote about his influential mentor, Dr. Bernie Ackerman, and dives into a critical discussion on overdiagnosis, the importance of specific diagnosis in dermatopathology, problems caused by partial samples, and the criteria for diagnosing melanoma. He emphasizes the importance of experience, proper training, and the need to biopsy adequately developed lesions. The conversation also touches on the complexity of biological classification and the role of behavior and molecular studies in understanding diseases. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Wolfgang Weyers00:46 Personal Anecdotes and Influences02:05 Discussion on Overdiagnosis05:04 Criteria for Melanoma Diagnosis08:34 Challenges in Diagnosis and Solutions16:48 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

On this episode of the Eat to Live Podcast, host Jenna Fuhrman sits down with her sister, naturopathic doctor, Dr. Cara Fuhrman, to explore a question many people are quietly asking: Is there a smarter, more humane way to think about cancer prevention, treatment, and screening? Together, they challenge long-standing assumptions about cancer as a matter of bad luck or genetics alone, and instead explore how lifestyle, nutrition, body fat, toxins, and modern screening tools like QT Imaging are reshaping how we understand cancer risk and early detection. Dr. Cara also shares insights from LongevityRx, the medical center she co-founded with her father, nutritional researcher and physician Dr. Joel Fuhrman, where care is centered on prevention, precision, and long-term vitality—not fear-based medicine.

Overdiagnosis and Medical Decision Making with Dr. Kathleen KerrIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Dr. Kathleen Kerr, a Professor of Biostatistics at the University of Washington, discusses overdiagnosis and medical decision making. Dr. Kerr delves into how patients perceive mammogram results, the difference between overdiagnosis and overcalling, and the challenges pathologists face in diagnosing cancer. She also shares findings from her research on the influence of prior opinions on second diagnoses and the cognitive processes involved in interpreting pathology images. The discussion highlights the complexities and subjectivity in pathology diagnoses and the implications for patient care.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:33 Personal Anecdote on Mammograms01:25 Understanding Screening and Its Limitations02:24 Exploring Overdiagnosis05:59 Research on Dermatopathologists' Perceptions08:20 Second Opinions in Medical Decision Making12:26 Pathologists' Diagnostic Process15:42 Final Thoughts on Diagnostic Criteria

“We get a lot of inappropriate over-prescribing for almost everything,” says drug policy researcher and journalist Alan Cassels.Cassels is the co-author of “Selling Sickness: How the World's Biggest Pharmaceutical Companies Are Turning Us All Into Patients.”For Cassels, it was one disease in particular—osteoporosis—that changed his entire view of medicine.Based on changing definitions of the disease, large swaths of Americans could suddenly be declared sick and in urgent need of drug treatment.They “medicalized normal aging of basically the entire female population. Overnight,” he says.In our interview, we discuss the influence of the pharmaceutical industry on overdiagnoses and prescriptions, and how the criteria for many diseases can be expanded arbitrarily.“When you look closely at the quality of prescribing, a lot of times, the decision-making is not really driven by evidence. It's driven mostly by … marketing, biases, influence from thought leaders, and influence from guidelines, medical guidelines themselves, which are often appallingly biased,” he says.Many doctors, Cassels says, know little about the adverse effects of the many drugs they prescribe to their patients.We also dive into the connection between psychiatric drug prescriptions and violence, how psychiatry labels normal behaviors as abnormal, and how exaggerated statistics are used to sell theories of disease and drug treatments.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

In this compelling episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Michael Greger, physician, author of How Not to Die, and founder of NutritionFacts.org, for a focused conversation on breast cancer screening, prevention, and informed decision making.Together, they challenge common assumptions about mammograms, unpacking what research shows about over diagnosis, false reassurance, and the lack of overall survival benefit. Dr. Greger explains why women and physicians often overestimate the life-saving power of mammography and why informed consent is missing from screening discussions.Beyond screening, Dr. Greger explores how lifestyle shapes breast cancer risk, including plant-forward nutrition and the dangers of alcohol. Together, they emphasize empowering women with evidence-based information.

In this episode, Dr. Rena Malik, MD is joined by Dr. Matthew Davenport to explore the true value and risks of whole body MRI scans and other imaging tests. Together, they address widespread misconceptions about early cancer detection, the potential for overdiagnosis, unnecessary invasive procedures, and the psychological harms incidental findings can cause. Listeners will learn how to make informed, evidence-based decisions about medical imaging, prioritize lasting health habits, and understand the evolving role of new technologies like artificial intelligence in radiology. Become a Member to Receive Exclusive Content: renamalik.supercast.com Schedule an appointment with me: https://www.renamalikmd.com/appointments ▶️Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:43 Full Body MRI Scans Explained 00:03:12 Overdiagnosis and Incidental Findings 00:06:14 Cancer Detection Myths 00:10:33 Physical and Psychological Harms 00:18:29 Real Patient Case: Imaging Gone Wrong 00:24:17 Spending for Health: Better Alternatives 00:30:59 Imaging Advances and AI 00:53:12 Prostate MRI Screening 01:17:05 Lessons, Value, and Personal Insights Go to https://www.cozyearth.com and use coupon code RENA to get up to 40% off! Stay connected with Dr. Matthew Davenport on social media for daily insights and updates. Don't miss out—follow him now and check out these links! LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-davenport-md-mba-037184286 Work profile: https://medschool.umich.edu/profile/2315/matthew-s-davenport Most relevant article: https://www.ajronline.org/doi/10.2214/AJR.22.28926 Next event is grand rounds speaker at Stanford: https://med.stanford.edu/radiology/education/grandrounds/2025-26.html#january Let's Connect!: WEBSITE: http://www.renamalikmd.com YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@RenaMalikMD INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/RenaMalikMD TWITTER: http://twitter.com/RenaMalikMD FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/RenaMalikMD/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renadmalik PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/renamalikmd/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/RenaMalikMD ------------------------------------------------------ DISCLAIMER: This podcast is purely educational and does not constitute medical advice. The content of this podcast is my personal opinion, and not that of my employer(s). Use of this information is at your own risk. Rena Malik, M.D. will not assume any liability for any direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of information contained in this podcast including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating Dermatopathology with Dr. Ronald Barr: An Inspiring Career JourneyIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine interviews Dr. Ronald Barr, a seasoned pathologist, dermatologist, and dermatopathologist. Dr. Barr shares his intriguing journey from his time in the Navy to his pivotal mentorship with Dr. James Graham. He explores the complexities of diagnostic discordance, the evolution of dermatopathology, and offers heartfelt advice for thriving in one's career. Personal anecdotes and insights into the field make this a compelling listen for both medical professionals and enthusiasts.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:39 Dr. Barr's Journey into Dermatopathology03:35 The Influence of Dr. Graham04:50 Consistency in Diagnosis05:30 Thoughts on Diagnostic Discordance11:32 Advice for Thriving in Your Career13:54 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Last week the Health Secretary announced a review into the rising rates of ADHD and Autism, as well as other mental health conditions. Writer: Poppy BullardProducer: Poppy BullardHost: Ada BarumeEpisode photography: Joe MeeExecutive Producer: Rebecca Moore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Questioning Overdiagnosis: A Conversation with Dr. H Gilbert WelchIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine speaks with Dr. H Gilbert Welch, a general internist and senior researcher at the Center for Surgery in Public Health at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Dr. Welch is known for his critical views on the medical profession, particularly around the issue of overdiagnosis in cancer screening. He explains the concept of overdiagnosis, shares a compelling personal anecdote from his career, and discusses the complexities and consequences of early cancer detection. They also explore the differing patient perspectives on diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of balanced understanding between medical professionals and patients. The conversation sheds light on the unintended impacts of too much medical care and advocates for a more thoughtful approach to screening and diagnosis.00:00 Introduction to Dr. H Gilbert Welch01:31 Understanding Overdiagnosis03:24 A Personal Anecdote on Overdiagnosis07:48 The Complexity of Overdiagnosis11:09 Challenges in Medical Screening20:24 Final Thoughts and Reflections

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir ******Dr Alastair Santhouse, a consultant neuropsychiatrist at The Maudsley Hospital in London, authored No More Normal: Mental Health in an Age of Over-Diagnosis, published by Granta Books in April 2025. In this H-Hour Icebreaker, a prequel to the full podcast, Alistair to tackles critical questions from H-Hour patrons about neurodivergence, self-diagnosis, and the evolution of psychiatric terms like trauma and depression. Santos delves into the rising diagnoses of autism and ADHD, the complexities of self-diagnosis, and the pressures on mental health services. The discussion also touches on societal issues like loneliness, financial insecurity, and the need for nuanced, accurate mental health diagnoses. This episode promises a rich conversation full of balanced, research-based insights on mental health and diagnosis. https://www.alastairsanthouse.com https://www.amazon.co.uk/No-More-Normal-Mental-Over-Diagnosis/dp/1803511141

For H-Hour perks, join the H-Hour Discord guild: https://discord.com/invite/KCb54MQNxd and follow H-Hour Hugh on X: https://x.com/HughKeir ******* In this intriguing episode of H-Hour, Dr. Alastair Santhouse, author of No More Normal: Mental Health in an Age of Over-Diagnosis, delves into the delicate balance of psychiatric diagnoses, the potential pitfalls of overdiagnosis, and the nuances of self-diagnosis. Covering topics from the rates of neurodivergence to redefining trauma and anxiety in contemporary contexts, this episode offers a thought-provoking exploration aimed at fostering better understanding of mental health challenges and their societal implications. Dr Alastair Santhouse is a consultant neuropsychiatrist at The Maudsley Hospital in London, and authored No More Normal: Mental Health in an Age of Over-Diagnosis, published by Granta Books in April 2025. https://www.alastairsanthouse.com https://www.amazon.co.uk/No-More-Normal-Mental-Over-Diagnosis/dp/1803511141

Thanksgiving Reflections and Insights on Perception and OverdiagnosisIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, Christine expresses gratitude for listeners and contributors, especially highlighting recent enlightening discussions. Dr. Claudia Mello-Thoms shared insights on subconscious perception in dermatopathology, while an upcoming episode will feature Dr. H. Gilbert Welch discussing over-diagnosis and the limitations of static tissue samples in cancer diagnosis. The importance of accurate diagnosis and mindful treatment in dermatopathology is emphasized. Listeners are encouraged to tune into these valuable conversations.00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Gratitude00:25 Subconscious Perception in Dermatopathology00:48 Upcoming Conversation with Dr. H. Gilbert Welch01:19 Overdiagnosis in Pathology01:38 Dynamic Nature of Cancer Diagnosis02:07 Closing Remarks and Community Thanks

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott respond to shocking recent comments from Reform UK's deputy leader, Richard Tice — whose claims about “overdiagnosis,” ear defenders, and SEND support reveal just how dangerously out of touch his party is with neurodivergent realities. They break down Tice's statements about “too many labels,” “overdiagnosed children,” and the idea that SEND support should be pushed back onto already-burnt-out schools. Jordan and Simon explore why this rhetoric isn't just ignorant — it's harmful, ableist, and deeply rooted in a political movement that treats disabled children as a financial burden rather than human beings.Across the episode, they dive into:Why claims of “overdiagnosis” are factually wrong — and why autism and ADHD remain massively underdiagnosedThe danger of framing neurodivergent support as “optional” or “too expensive”How right-wing parties in the UK and US mirror each other in attacking disabled communitiesWhy ear defenders, sensory tools, and accommodations matter — and what it means when politicians publicly mock themThe long history of autistic people driving innovation, science, technology, art, and cultureHow austerity politics weaponise public ignorance about neurodivergenceWhy dismissing assessments, EHCPs, and support plans harms every child, not just SEND studentsWhat happens when politicians shape policy around stigma instead of science and lived experienceThis is a fiery, unapologetic episode about the real political threat facing autistic and ADHD people — and why our community cannot stay silent when elected officials target disabled children to score votes.Our Sponsors:

Every October 31st, kids go wild - costumes, sugar, excitement - but what if that same energy is quietly shaping ADHD diagnoses? In this Doctor’s Desk episode, Justin and Kylie unpack a fascinating new study showing a 14% spike in ADHD diagnoses on Halloween day. They explore what this says about subjectivity in diagnosis, the risks of overlabelling kids, and how our environments - not just our children - might need rethinking. KEY POINTS: A new Harvard study found ADHD diagnoses rise 14% on Halloween compared to surrounding days. ADHD remains a subjective diagnosis — there’s no blood test or scan to confirm it. Why environment and maturity often explain behaviours mistaken for “disorder.” The real risks of misdiagnosis — medication, labelling, and self-perception. Why it’s time to look at what’s happening around kids, not just within them. QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: “There isn’t anything wrong with her — she just doesn’t fit the mould of what we consider normal.” RESOURCES MENTIONED: Study: Halloween, ADHD, and Subjectivity in Medical Diagnosis (National Bureau of Economic Research) Searching for Normal by Sami Timimi The Parenting Revolution by Justin Coulson ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS: Before seeking a diagnosis, consider context — sleep, stress, diet, and school environment. Avoid rushing to label; focus on understanding and supporting your child’s unique needs. Ask questions — about treatment pathways, environment, and alternative perspectives. Create calmer spaces where kids can regulate, play, and thrive. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

​​Want to learn all of Dr. Morgan's expert advice on pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and postpartum? Get her lessons here! Ultrasounds can save babies… and harm them.In this episode, we break down the real risks, the imperfect tech, and the benefits so you can choose with nuance. We don't take an all-or-nothing stance; We look at where this tool helps and where it doesn't, and name the common pressure tracks people get swept into.You'll hear what makes the first trimester different, why short scans matter, and how an anatomy scan fits. We pull back the curtain on false alarms, anxiety spirals, and the temptation to use a Doppler like a security blanket. Sometimes the smartest move is giving your body what it already needs.You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[06:00] Choosing reassurance without overuse[11:00] Early scans: where caution matters[16:00] When false results derail a pregnancy[20:57] IUGR: balancing risk and timing[26:11] The miscarriage myth gets a reality check[29:16] What a randomized trial found about child outcomes[36:58] Choosing acceptance when you feel out of control[40:36] Why the ‘right' choice looks different for every Mom[50:18] What the 20-week anatomy scan is for[1:11:00] What a late-pregnancy biophysical profile actually checksResources Mentioned:Healthy as a Mother podcast episode on The Power of Progesterone: An Essential Fertility Hormone | Apple or SpotifyFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Send us a textSuzanne O'Sullivan's The Age of Diagnosis was hotly awaited and has received a lot of discussion on social media and in the national press.  Ben Tyler and I had both really enjoyed her former books and looked forward to this book.  Overdiagnosis is a bit of a hot topic lately, but as I hope we manage to explore, keeping curiosity and compassion at the forefront of what we do are much more important than making hard judgements.We mention John Harris' brilliant substack on the book https://maybeimamazed.substack.com/p/why-new-book-the-age-of-diagnosisand Elke Housmann's BJGP review of the book https://bjgp.org/content/75/754/228

In this powerful episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons welcomes advocate Donna Pinto to uncover the truth about DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ), mammography, and the epidemic of overdiagnosis.Donna shares her personal journey from shock diagnosis to advocacy, exposing how fear, language, and profit drive women into unnecessary treatments. Together, she and Dr. Jenn highlight the emotional toll of mislabeling DCIS as cancer, the shortcomings of mammograms, and the need for safer, smarter approaches.

Is ADHD really a brain disorder or a label created to sell drugs? Dr. Roger McFillin speaks with filmmaker Roman Wyden, founder of the ADHD Is Over movement- that includes a book, podcast and upcoming documentary.  Roman shares why he rejected the ADHD label for his son and what he uncovered about the system behind it: schools, pharma, and psychiatry pushing parents toward pills. Together they expose how 6 million children in America are prescribed stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin, the billion-dollar ADHD industry that profits from it, and why more parents are waking up and saying: ADHD is over.ADHD is OVER Website Visit Center for Integrated Behavioral HealthDr. Roger McFillin / Radically Genuine WebsiteYouTube @RadicallyGenuineDr. Roger McFillin (@DrMcFillin) / XSubstack | Radically Genuine | Dr. Roger McFillinInstagram @radicallygenuineContact Radically GenuineConscious Clinician CollectivePLEASE SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS15% Off Pure Spectrum CBD (Code: RadicallyGenuine)10% off Lovetuner click here

Episode Description In this thought-provoking episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons welcomes Dr. Pam Popper—author, educator, and tireless advocate for informed health. From her own personal health struggles to becoming a leading voice for medical reform, Dr. Popper shares why personal responsibility and lifestyle choices are at the heart of true wellness.Together, they challenge conventional ideas about weight, health, and overdiagnosis, while exposing how insurance companies and profit motives distort patient care. Dr. Popper also explores innovative approaches to breast cancer screening and highlights powerful stories of radical remission that prove the body's capacity to heal when supported.This is an empowering conversation for anyone ready to question the system, reclaim their health, and take ownership of their future.

Check out the collection of fidgets Team Shiny loves! Is the 'overdiagnosing' of ADHD, autism, and other neurodevelopmental conditions a 'danger,' and to whom? Isabelle and David continue taking some common myths and misperceptions, questioning who and how we gatekeep 'neurodiversity' (including the idea that maybe there really is no 'neurotypical')--and how one group's fears that these labels harm us cannot negate the fear neurospicy folks have that they will be in trouble, or judged, or stigmatized for being who they are and unmasking. Also using the power of compassion and inviting more conversations, while not jumping to cancelling anyone--because everyone gets to fart in an elevator once or twice. -----Isabelle is coming in hot. She continues to explore her reaction to a podcast episode she listened to recently, Armchair Expert with guest Suzanne O'Sullivan on overdiagnosis, which went from covering seizure disorders to ADHD and autism, especially high-masking autism, real quick.  She is so frustrated that a non-expert on ADHD—someone like O'Sullivan, whose expertise is working with epilepsy and seizure disorders, has now spent so much time talking about ADHD and autism when that is not an area of expertise. David names that he thinks this is an important conversation to have, because we are validating the other perspectives. There is a medical model of disease sets us up to want to oppose or eradicate the ‘disease;' where things like neurodevelopment conditions like ADHD and autism are not something to be ‘cured' or ‘fixed.” David makes the comparison, its like a bunch of people sitting and talking about going to Mexico when no one has ever been there—cultural representation. For example, someone has mild amounts of anxiety throughout the day. They understand this anxiety as having ADHD. They use ADHD interventions to help them and they found a community, and it makes sense and they feel better, it works for them. And then someone comes up with a reason to say that person does not have ADHD, that this definition does not apply—why are we being so careful when it comes to gatekeeping diversity, including neurodiversity?  This wonderful person that David met at a training, named Shay, asked: is there anyone that is neurotypical? We could think of the difference between traits and states. And then he thought about personal examples. He doesn't know if there is someone "neurotypical." Would it to be less shocking that people have different neurological needs or educational differences if we recognized that there may be no 'one' baseline or group to compare everything to? And how quickly we dismiss difference--like knowing that because David listened to books, the argument that what he did was not 'reading'--but we get back to actual question, which is...what was the task, and did it get done?  Often, talking about the fantasy of how ADHD looks or how its supposed to be, it's more about other people. A lot of people with ADHD believe that if its easy for them, they're cheating. Because its supposed to be hard. Do most non-ADHD people think that way?  The debates are now that anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD—these are neurological differences—they are also looking at causal factors to all these conditions that are not chosen. So is the only person who is ‘normal' the person who has no feelings, reactions, or responses?  Someone who has no big responses to stimuli, someone who is antisocial? Isabelle does fall into the categorizing and black and white thinking, and how its a part of learning, to categorize and generalize. This is not dissimilar to how people talk about race, gender, and about culturally defined parts of experiences because we collectively make them a thing—maybe its myth making and collective storytelling. There is a gravitational pull to the idea of being neurotypical or mentally ‘well' and then there's good and bad. Isabelle wonders where the compassion goes? David speaks up—they have compassion. People are scared. People are scared and when we're scared, we have a reflexive reactions. People have found safety or comfort in the label of ‘normal' or ‘neurotypical,' and they see difference as not good, and they're really trying to, in their mind, help people in their messaging. Terror management theory: when you're scared, you find a group of people who are like you and you band together to be less scared. So, there are a chunk of people out there who are getting very specific about who is in or out of the group.  David can have a lot of compassion for that fear, that fear about who gets to belong. But he also wants to speak to the neurodivergent person who is doing something you tell them will help—and it hurts them? It's a real fear we carry. David uses the example of his mom—bless her heart (see the Southern US use of this phrase on many levels below)—who grew up being told the importance of having arch support in shoes, and so when David had flat feet, she had him use these inserts—David is not blaming his mom, she did the best she could—lots of people are told not to touch things, don't go into the light. Every neurodivergent person has to have the fear “I'm doing this wrong, I'm in trouble, I'm doing something bad!” To little David: you know, you have flat feet, you have more stability around corners—but another voice would say “don't tell anyone you have flat feet, it's bad.” He has compassion for the fear people have that want everyone to be the same, to not stand out or be different, and there is also a fear that neurodivergent people sit with every day about whether or not they're allowed to act the way they act. Isabelle names that the podcasters were saying “oh, these diagnoses are an excuse to then act in ways that are socially awkward.” Ahem. Isabelle describes how this feels like when she describes her inner workings to someone in all the steps she takes when she sits down next to someone, wondering if this is the right physical distance, is she staring at their eyebrows too long, is she pausing appropriately, etc.—and when she unmasks and reveals this, the person considers it a compliment to say “I couldn't tell.” It's the idea that someone outside of you knows more about your experience than you do. The way that diagnoses connect to power and gatekeeping for services and Isabelle makes the point that those who are saying “over diagnosis is dangerous”—to whom? On what planet are folks who are neurospicy getting enough of the supports and services and resources and access that they need? The system is already failing most of us. David names: this isn't cancer, this isn't people getting chemo erroneously. There is no danger in identification, it's about getting our needs met. What do we do as a society to neglected people, and the more you know about your needs, the less of a danger being neglected becomes. This is a question of someone who knows a lot about things wandered over into another area and made bold statements without the expertise. Isabelle was extra miffed that she also dismissed the intersections of Autism, ADHD, POTS, hyper mobile Ehlers Danlos, and MCAS and ‘nonexistent' —so damaging and harmful. These are real things, the interconnectedness of them is being actively researched, just because you are new to the party does not make something false or untrue. As David puts it, in the 70's or 80's, the APA took a vote to decide if being gay was good or bad, essentially (“do we keep gayness as a disorder?” Yes folks, this was that recently. GAH.). Now imagine someone was asleep for ten years and missed that memo and is now walking around looking at pride flags wondering “why are there so man...

IntroductionMy first experience with a cardiac arrest as a new EMT → exhilarating, confirmed calling to emergency medicine.Early struggles: dropped out of college, lacked discipline, but EMT training provided a direction and purpose.Spent years balancing work as EMT/paramedic with school → long path to becoming a PA.Lessons from emergency medicine shaped clinical skills and mindset.Concept of standards:Standards = benchmarks, measurable expectations, non-negotiable habits.Different from principles (general truths) → standards are concrete, either met or not.Standards build consistency, resilience, and preparation.Personal struggles: binge eating, lack of discipline, repeated failures to meet daily goals.Turning point: completing 75 Hard program → developed discipline, consistency, higher personal standards.Standards spill over into clinical performance, family life, and personal growth.Emphasizes locus of control:Focus on what you can control, not external factors.Even in chaotic emergency medicine, there are controllable elements.Warns that neglected habits eventually become emergent problems (health, mindset, life).Family story: father's heart attack → personal wake-up call about health and discipline.Core message: Raising standards in personal life and medicine leads to thriving, not just surviving.Purpose: help others raise their own standards without taking 16 years to learn the lessons.Chapter 1: Do Not Seek to DiagnoseCase study: elderly woman with shortness of breath and chest pain.No pulmonary embolism, but fluid in lungs and around heart → problem found, but no definitive diagnosis yet.Highlight: in the ED, the goal is to rule out life-threatening conditions, not always find the exact cause.Key principle: Diagnosis is often less important than identifying and stabilizing dangerous conditions.Emergency medicine limits:Not every test or long-term treatment available.Focus on acute, life-threatening issues; leave underlying cause to specialists.Patients often expect answers and certainty, but ED care is about safety and ruling out the worst cases.Overdiagnosis problems:Incidental findings (lung nodules, brain aneurysms, ultrasound anomalies) → create stress, anxiety, or unnecessary proceSupport the showEverything you hear today from myself and my guests is opinion only and doesn't represent any organizations or companies that any of us are affiliated with. The stories you hear have been modified to protect patient privacy and any resemblance to real individuals is coincidental. This is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice nor used to diagnose any medical or healthcare conditions. This is not medical advice. If you have personal health concerns, please seek professional care. Full show notes can be found here: Episodes - Practical EMS - Content for EMTs, PAs, ParamedicsMost efficient online EKG course here: Practical EKG Interpretation - Practical EMS earn 4 CME and learn the fundamentals through advanced EKG interpretation in under 4 hours. If you want to work on your nutrition, increase your energy, improve your physical and mental health, I highly recommend 1st Phorm. Check them out here so they know I sent you. 1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition

Philippa Perry has spent years helping people understand their inner lives, but she believes that something fundamental has shifted in the way we connect. Lockdown, she says, left many young people struggling with social confidence, while the dominance of phones and texting has created “fantasy relationships” that don't prepare us for the realities of face-to-face communication.In this episode of Ways to Change the World, Philippa joins Krishnan Guru-Murthy to discuss the hidden costs of social media, the pressures of cancel culture, and why we are so easily drawn to bad news. She explores the dangers of overdiagnosis, the challenge of parenting in a digital age, and why building genuine, flexible relationships matters more than ever in an anxious world.

Check out the collection of fidgets Team Shiny loves! Are ADHD, autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders overdiagnosed? Is it all in our heads? Is self-diagnosis legit? Isabelle and David take some common stigmas and misperceptions to task and explore how labels and identities can help or hurt, how policing stigma when you're not a member of the group being stigmatized (or asking us what we need), and the huge weight our world puts on external, visible behaviors rather than internal pain, frustrations, and strengths.-----Isabelle references a podcast episode she listened to recently, Armchair Expert with guest Suzanne O'Sullivan on overdiagnosis. She brings up the idea of psychosomatic illness, and the example this epilepsy expert uses is that there are a certain percentage of cases of epilepsy that appear very different on brain scans, that appear to be psychologically caused (or psychosomatic). This is one of those confusing, stigmatized concepts—Isabelle would originally think that this means “made up.” But NO. What it means is that people are still experiencing the symptoms, are still suffering from symptoms of seizures, sometimes way worse than those who on EEGs, etc. appear to have ‘epilepsy.' It is the opposite of ‘in your head,' it is very real. The same goes for the placebo effect, which is that when they do studies on medications or treatments, they have people do something neutral or take a sugar pill or a pill with no active ingredients. A percentage of people in every case will see symptom improvement or a positive effect. This does not mean it's made up, it means the mind is powerful and just because we don't know how something works doesn't mean it doesn't bring relief. And the same goes with nocebo, or the way things can have an adverse or ill effect, too. But now David and Isabelle get to the other idea this author has, about how ADHD and autism and other diagnoses are being ‘over diagnosed,' because, as the author states, autism used to mean something different than it does now, because now people later in life who are high masking are being diagnosed with it—and the cutoff points for diagnoses are being too muddled, and isn't it (as the author puts it), “awful that kids will be labelled with these self-fulfilling prophecies” that will create limiting beliefs for them, isn't it causing harm, can't we meet kids needs without these labels? And more so, the cut off point should be “disablement.” But wait a minute, isn't that pre-diabetes? But isn't it like the biggest predictor of heroin use is milk consumption…because everyone who takes heroin used to drink milk. David wants to come at this. David wants more inclusive education, he doesn't want smaller and smaller classrooms, and what to have a very diverse set of people in the room. A diverse group of people learning at once. To answer why do we need to label them? Because every person has different needs, we need labels to tailor education to each person. The more standardized it becomes the more it becomes marginalized. Stay in your lane, let people within the culture manage the stigma around the culture. “Can you just include someone from these communities?” A bunch of people talking about us and deciding what's harming us without talking to us. Isabelle refers back to psychopharmacology and psychopathology class—you gotta learn a ton about diagnostic criteria and learn how to categorize the experiences of people your seeing. Isabelle's professor was a neuropsychologist and was very into accurate language. You can look at diagnoses from a couple of different angles—why do we diagnosis? We need to have a standardized understanding of a group of experiences, so when we talk about it we all say “this is the part that we mean.” There needs to be some kind of shared consensus around what ADHD means. Cut off points could be true for insurance purposes, political, and financial, and for research and understanding, and it also is not all encompassing—but if you accurately sync a person up to a diagnosis, it gives them an understanding of a person that helps them. Everyone isn't self-diagnosing. It's the people who resonate with the experiences of those who are AuDHD or autistic or an ADHDer. David names that he loves the podcast (as does Isabelle, she's a big archerry) and that the people on this podcast are falling into something society does, not necessarily leading society there, which is validating external manifestations of pain rather than internal frustration. David leans on the work of Marcus Soutra, with the idea that perhaps instead of thinking of things as diagnoses, it's more of an identification. We're accurately identifying people.  Isabelle further details that they mention that mental health diagnoses go up when mental health awareness is spread. To which she wonders—what about how psychoeducation and awareness allow for people to be more vulnerable and feel safe disclosing what's really going on, internally? The example that ‘doesn't everyone have a little ADHD' is—-wrong. Nope, Not everyone. But maybe those who have untreated ADHD do? And with the example of Bill Gates identifying as autistic, and the author naming that she doesn't see him as having struggles or disability, again, a very external definition—they have no clue about what he has gone through or what it is like to go through life not fully understanding yourself without such an identity. Autism and ADHD is not necessarily a learning difference Armchair Expert episode Isabelle is referencingSuzanne O'Sullivan's book, The Age of DiagnosisUSEFUL DEFINITIONSPsychosomatic - a word that literally means "mind" and "body" -- where stress or worry make a symptom or condition develop, get worse, or show up in the first place. While common usage means we often think this is saying "it's all in your head,"or that it's not real---it's saying the opposite: it's saying that the mind has such a powerful effect that it can cause real physical pain and suffering and that illnesses and all kinds of conditions can have many different causes. This does not mean what you're experiencing is not real, it means we now understand that stressors and emotions and our minds can connect to a number of health conditions. See here for more (Source: Cleveland Clinic).Placebo effect - the way a sugar pill or random remedy (used in clinical research trials for a medication, let's say, or a 'fake surgery' in surgical trials, where nothing is implanted or changed) produces symptom relief and improvement as if it were a real pill or real surgically-altering procedure. This means that the person experiences actual change, again, that is not explained by the treatment or pill being studied. We don't fully understand why this is, but we know it's there, and it likely has something to do with a person's expectations of whether something could help them. It has a big impact on research and neuroscience in general. See here for more (Source: NIH 2023)Nocebo effect - opposite from placebo, where a person's negative expectations play out when given a sugar pill or 'sham' surgery and their symptoms get worse even thought they did not receive any medicine or treatment that would give them side effects. See here for more (Source: NIH 2012). -----cover art by:

Accommodation fraud - Gardai warn students - the next few weeks - you're a target....Trucker, bus driver, science teacher, masters student - does Michelle ever sleep?...Is it time for a conversation about overdiagnosis & lots more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the conclusion of this two-part conversation, Dr. Jenn Simmons and Dr. Jeffrey Dach go deeper on bioidentical hormones, long-term estrogen deprivation (LTED), and why “have” vs. “had” breast cancer matters when discussing HRT. They examine apoptosis after LTED, the role of estrogen in genomic stability, and how overdiagnosis from screening can drive unnecessary treatment. They also cover practical prevention pillars—iodine, DIM, selenium, and vitamin D—and what thoughtful, individualized care can look like for women navigating menopause and survivorship.In This Episode, You Will Learn:How reintroducing estrogen can trigger apoptosis in specific contextsWhy “have” vs. “had” breast cancer changes the HRT conversationHow screening, overdiagnosis, and rising mastectomy rates intersectThe difference between natural progesterone and synthetic progestinsHow iodine, DIM, selenium, and vitamin D factor into prevention programsWhat estrogen metabolites (2-hydroxy vs 4-hydroxy) and COMT mean for riskWhere integrative oncology and repurposed therapies fit into patient-centered careEpisode Timeline Highlights00:00:51 LTED explained: estrogen reintroduction & apoptosis 00:06:48 How long is “long-term” deprivation? What the studies suggest 00:10:29 “Have” vs. “had” breast cancer—why words matter for HRT decisions 00:12:48 Integrative oncology, repurposed drugs & fasting in cancer care context 00:17:41 Who may be a candidate for HRT after curative treatment? 00:20:11 Autopsy data, DCIS, and the problem of overdiagnosis 00:27:10 Why finding smaller tumors doesn't always change overall survival 00:29:29 The unintended rise in mastectomy rates with screening 00:47:33 Is it ever too late for HRT? Benefits into the 60s and 70s 00:50:02 Osteoarthritis, sleep, mood—systemic effects of estrogen deficiency 00:54:15 Metabolites & methylation (COMT) 00:58:22 Prevention stack: iodine, DIM, resveratrol, NAC 00:59:31 Selenium's role & vitamin D optimization 01:03:04 Risk-reduction strategies & individualized care 01:10:40 Closing reflections & resources

Dr. Alastair Santhouse is a consultant psychiatrist and author with over 20 years of experience in the field. He has worked at both Guy's Hospital and the Maudsley Hospital in London, treating a wide range of mental health conditions.His clinical expertise includes the psychological impact of physical illness and persistent physical symptoms, as well as more typical psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and adjustment disorders.Dr. Santhouse is the author of Head First: A Psychiatrist's Stories of Mind and Body (2021), and No More Normal: Mental Health in an Age of Over-Diagnosis (2025).Find out more about Dr. Santhouse here - https://www.alastairsanthouse.com/Interviewed by Dr. Alex Curmi. Dr. Alex is a consultant psychiatrist and a UKCP registered psychotherapist in-training.If you would like to invite Alex to speak at your organisation please email alexcurmitherapy@gmail.com with "Speaking Enquiry" in the subject line.Alex is not currently taking on new psychotherapy clients, if you are interested in working with Alex for focused behaviour change coaching , you can email - alexcurmitherapy@gmail.com with "Coaching" in the subject line.Check out The Thinking Mind Blog on Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/thinkingmindblog/p/thinking-mind-blog-big-thoughts-edition?r=1cn09u&utm_medium=iosGive feedback here - thinkingmindpodcast@gmail.com Follow us here: Twitter @thinkingmindpod Instagram @thinkingmindpodcast

Join Dr. Kristi Funk as she shares her insights on mammograms, the risks of overdiagnosis, and the potential of biologically non-aggressive cancers. Discover the balance between detecting aggressive cancers and avoiding unnecessary procedures. This impactful discussion is a must-watch for every woman. #BreastCancerAwareness #MammogramDebate #HealthInsights

AI-boost for mammograms—a bridge too far? Plastics and heart disease; What does a high CRP mean? Social media marketing of female aphrodisiac dinged with FDA warning; Roundup gets a makeover; Artificial sweeteners may hasten puberty in kids; Plus an encore of our interview with Dr. Jeffrey Bland introducing Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat as a hedge against age-related immune decline.

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

Prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men in the U.S., with evolving screening and treatment practices reshaping care in 2025. UCSF's Dr. Matthew Cooperberg highlights a shift away from overdiagnosis and overtreatment of low-risk cancers, focusing instead on identifying aggressive disease through tools like MRI and advanced biomarker tests. A new “smarter screening” model now guides primary care, recommending long testing intervals for men with low PSA levels. While active surveillance has increased nationally, significant variation in care remains, and racial disparities—especially for Black men—persist. Patients are encouraged to take time in making treatment decisions, as prostate cancer often progresses slowly and allows for thoughtful, personalized care. Series: "Prostate Cancer Patient Conference" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40796]

In this powerful episode of Keeping Abreast, I sit down with renowned functional medicine pioneer Dr. Allen Magaziner to explore his transformative journey into integrative care. From the early days of facing resistance in a conventional medical landscape to building a thriving holistic practice, Dr. Magaziner shares how personal experiences—particularly his mother's health struggles—led him to challenge the status quo.Together, we unpack the many flaws in our current medical system, including the dangers of overdiagnosis, the overreliance on prescription medications, and the urgent need to prioritize health over disease management. This conversation dives deep into the misunderstood world of cholesterol, inflammation, and the often-overlooked role of nutritional deficiencies—especially vitamin D—in both cancer prevention and treatment.Listeners will be inspired by Dr. Magaziner's passion for integrative oncology, his insights into lifestyle medicine, and his message of hope for anyone facing cancer. The episode also honors the legacy of Suzanne Somers, who bravely championed hormone replacement therapy and encouraged women to reclaim their health after cancer. In This Episode, You Will Learn:-Dr. Magaziner's path into functional medicine began with his mother's illness-The limitations of conventional medicine spurred his shift toward integrative care-Overdiagnosis and prescription drug overuse are harming more than helping-Cholesterol is essential to health—context and nuance matter-Vitamin D regulates over 2,000 genes, including many with anti-cancer properties-Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels (>90 ng/mL) is critical in cancer care-Integrative oncology can radically improve both outcomes and quality of life-Repurposed medications, such as metformin, show promise in cancer therapy-Fear inhibits healing—support, mindset, and curiosity are vital-Suzanne Somers' legacy continues to empower women's wellness journeys 

In this episode of the AJR Podcast Series on Diagnostic Excellence and Error, Francis Deng, MD, and Saurabh Jha, MD, discusses the complex phenomenon of overdiagnosis in radiology, exploring its population-level recognition, ethical tensions, and the role of radiologists in mitigating harm through reporting practices, societal guidelines, and advocacy. https://www.ajronline.org/doi/10.2214/AJR.25.33273 

Dr. Brooke Nickel dives into the murky world of health misinformation on social media, exposing how overdiagnosis and unverified health claims are thriving in a mostly unregulated space. We explore the influence of online personalities, the power of personal anecdotes, and the urgent need for evidence-based guidance in digital health conversations.

1/2: #M.D: OVERDIAGNOSIS.  OVERMEDICALIZATION RONALD DWORKIN, CIVITAS INSTITUTE 1931

Preview: Conversation with Dr. Ronald Dworkin re the modern trend of overdiagnosis and overmedicalization. More later.  1961

2/2: #M.D: OVERDIAGNOSIS. OVERMEDICALIZATION.  RONALD DWORKIN, CIVITAS INSTITUTE 1960