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In this week's episode, Jess chats with Dr. Sarah Nosal to discuss the importance of adult vaccines, including shingles, HPV, flu, COVID, RSV, and more. They cover vaccine recommendations, personal experiences, and address common questions to help listeners make informed health decisions. We'd like to thank the American Academy of Family Physicians for sponsoring today's episode and helping us bring awareness to adult vaccines! Watch the convo on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QKpau8xcMTk (00:00) Intro & Public Health Update (04:12) Shingles Vaccine (11:37) HPV Vaccine (18:35) Flu Vaccine (25:23) COVID Vaccine (27:19) RSV Vaccine (30:15) Meningitis Vaccine (31:19) Chicken Pox/Varicella Vaccine (32:22) Adult Boosters For Childhood Vaccines (34:29) Vaccination During Pregnancy (36:09) Is There An Adult Vaccine Schedule? (38:39) First Time Grandparent Vaccine Recommendations (39:38) Final Thoughts https://www.acog.org/clinical-information/maternal-immunization-schedule https://www.aafp.org/about/leadership/board/sarah-nosal https://www.aafp.org/clinical-insights/immunizations-and-vaccines/immunizations-schedules-resourceshhttps://familydoctor.org/the-importance-of-vaccinations/ https://familydoctor.org/vaccines-myth-versus-fact/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The benefits of getting a shingles vaccine seem relatively straightforward: It will prevent you from getting shingles, a painful rash caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. But researchers have found a surprising link between getting the shingles vaccine and a lower risk of developing dementia. And that's not the only vaccine that seems to have additional benefits. So what's going on here? To help explain this research are epidemiologist Pascal Geldsetzer, who studies the association between the shingles vaccine and lower rates of dementia; and physician and epidemiologist Helen Chu, who studies the Flu, RSV and COVID-19 viruses. Guests: Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer is an assistant professor of medicine, epidemiology and population health at Stanford University. Dr. Helen Chu is a professor of epidemiology, allergy and infectious diseases at the University of Washington. Other episodes you may enjoy: Study Finds COVID mRNA Vaccines Boost Cancer Treatment As Cervical Cancer Deaths Plummet, Experts Credit HPV Vaccine Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Follow our show on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Bluesky @scifri and sign up for our newsletters. Got a science question that's keeping you up at night? Call us: 877-472-4374 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dr Luke O'Neill joins Pat to discuss the possible link between reduced rates of dementia in certain cohorts when they are administered the vaccine for shingles.
Have you gotten the shingles vaccine? The vaccine is available privately, but can cost close to €500, leaving it unaffordable and out of reach for most older people...A national petition for this to be made free has gotten more than 23,000 signatures.Guest host Anna Daly is joined by listeners to discuss.
Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 4-30-2026:>/p> Dr. Dawn opens with a bike safety public service message, noting a 34% increase in bicycle use in Santa Cruz alongside rising e-bike accidents. She urges drivers to stay vigilant and calls for education and enforcement of helmet laws, particularly for riders under 18. A University of Michigan researcher discovered that standard nitrile, latex, and vinyl gloves shed stearate particles indistinguishable from polyethylene under spectroscopy, contaminating microplastics research with approximately 2,000 false positives per square millimeter. Only clean-room gloves avoided this problem, throwing years of microplastics studies into question. Dr. Dawn explains skin's three-layer structure and the stratum corneum's ceramide-based moisture barrier. She warns against stripping natural oils with astringents and hot showers, notes that UV disrupts proteins holding skin cells together, and cites a 2019 study showing moisturing treatment reduced circulating inflammatory cytokines in older adults. Making music coordinates sound, vision, motor control, and imagination across the brain. Studies show musicians have more gray matter, better executive function, sharper memory, and even reduced pain sensitivity. A 2010 paper found musicians who began before age seven have a larger corpus callosum, and a 2024 study showed pianists had better working memory while woodwind players did best at executive function. Stanford researcher Pascal Geldsetzer analyzed populations in Australia, New Zealand, Wales, and Ontario, finding the Shingrix vaccine reduces dementia risk by up to 20%. Dr. Dawn hypothesizes that even "dormant" varicella triggers low-level inflammation affecting brain microglia, and recommends spacing Shingrix three months apart from the second dose rather than one month to avoid side effects. A Nature study of 175 people watching movies found that observing someone being touched activates the same brain regions as being touched yourself—your brain experiences sensations in corresponding body parts. This vision-touch link could enable less invasive sensory testing for autistic individuals. Princeton and Flatiron Institute researchers identified four distinct autism phenotypes: broadly affected (10%), mixed with developmental delay (19%), moderate challenges (33%), and social/behavioral (37%). A second Nature study confirmed genetically distinct forms unfold on different timelines, with post-age-six diagnoses showing different genetic profiles than early childhood cases.
Defy Dementia – The podcast for anyone with a brain, by Baycrest
If you've been listening to our Defy Dementia podcast, watching our videos, or exploring our infographics, we'd love to hear what you think. We are asking our audience to complete a short survey to share how you have used the information we provide, as well as provide your feedback and help us improve the show. Everything you share is completely confidential, and it's entirely voluntary — you can stop at any time. You can find the survey here: https://redcap.link/Defy_Dementia Could a routine vaccine help protect your brain? In this episode, we explore emerging research on the association between shingles vaccination and reduced dementia risk. Ron Swan shares his perspective as a community advocate focused on aging and accessibility, while Dr. Dawn Bowdish (Professor, McMaster University) breaks down what the science says, and what it doesn't, about how vaccines may influence brain health. Together, they unpack what shingles is and what “promising but early” research about shingles vaccination could mean for reducing dementia risk. Tune in at defydementia.org, or wherever you get your podcasts. Guests: Ron Swan is a retired business development professional and entrepreneur with a strong focus on accessibility and aging-in-place. He founded Home Safe Living, a company that provided independent living and accessibility solutions across the Maritime region before selling the business to Lawton's Drugs, a Sobeys company. A passionate advocate for older adults, Ron continues to contribute through leadership roles, including Chair of the Board of CARP Nova Scotia and past Chair of the Seniors' Advisory Council of Nova Scotia. He is frequently called upon to speak on aging, accessibility and community well-being. Dr. Bowdish is a Professor at McMaster University and Executive Director of the Firestone Institute of Respiratory Health. Her research focuses on how aging affects the immune system, particularly how inflammation alters immune cell function and increases susceptibility to infections. Her work also examines how the aging immune system interacts with the microbiome and how these processes influence healthy and unhealthy aging. Dr. Bowdish leads the Preclinical Studies in Aging Laboratory and serves on the Board of Directors of the Lung Health Foundation, where she advocates for improved lung health and research funding for older adults.
Shingles vaccination in adults with established cardiovascular disease was associated with dramatic reductions in heart attack, stroke, and mortality in a large real-world analysis, supporting its role as a cardiovascular risk-reduction tool beyond infection prevention. The VESALIUS-CV trial found evolocumab significantly reduced major cardiovascular events in high-risk diabetic patients without known ASCVD, challenging the convention of reserving PCSK9 inhibitors for secondary prevention only. AI-analyzed smartwatch data predicted heart failure hospitalizations days to weeks in advance, signaling a shift toward continuous remote monitoring in heart failure management.
The HSE is looking into the possible link between the shingles vaccines and a lowered risk of dementia. The Oireachtas Health Committee was told today a free shingles vaccine programme for over 65s would cost 218 million euro. A previous HIQA assessment found the vaccine is safe and effective, but did not consider it cost effective at the current price. Chief Medical Officer Mary Horgan says she has asked HIQA to keep evaluating other benefits of the vaccine. Joining Alan Morrissey to discuss this was Dr. Michael Kelleher, Lahinch GP and Member of the IMO's GP Committee. Image © Medical professional administering vaccine by Mihaela Stoica's Images via Canva
This week, Dr. Kahn addresses a topic gaining attention in the media: whether taking the shingles vaccine (Shingrix in the USA) may reduce the risk of heart events and dementia. Multiple studies suggest this could be true, although no randomized trials have been performed to confirm it. Furthermore, most of these studies focus on a version of the vaccine that was discontinued in the U.S. in 2020 (Zostavax), making the assumption that Shingrix provides the same benefits somewhat speculative. This is a topic worth discussing with your primary care team. Other topics include controversies in nutrition, B vitamins and stroke risk, and the impact of medications for mild dementia. This episode is sponsored by the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club at getfreshdrkahn.com, featuring a limited $1 offer on high-quality olive oils.
It's that time of year when many of us head in for a flu shot but what about the shingles vaccine?
Luke O'Neill, School of Biochemistry and Immunology at Trinity College Dublin
Hear the latest on PCSK9 inhibitors, cardiorenal benefits of GLP-1 drugs, and other clinical research in this interview with Katie Berlacher, MD, MS, chair of this year's annual ACC meeting. Related Content: PCSK9 Inhibitors in Diabetes, Tirzepatide's Cardiorenal Effects, Shingles Vaccine, and More From ACC
The Havana Syndrome coverup—for years, bizarre symptoms were labeled “mass hysteria”, until a covert CIA op secured a portable device capable of delivering brain-scrambling sound pulses; A report card on this year's flu shot; Omega-3s combat “neuroticism”, dementia—they also tame depression and improve cognitive function and memory in adolescents; A caller with duodenitis wants to know if she should follow advice to take Prilosec for the rest of her life; Is the shingles vaccine worth taking?
The shingles vaccine is really good at preventing shingles — about 98% effective. Now researchers are looking at why it can prevent other illnesses. Plus, this conservation advocate recently finished a book of poetry based on his field notes at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Turning to health issues now, and some experts are calling for additional vaccine funding to protect older New Zealanders from shingles. Currently the shingles vaccine is funded for the 12 months after a person's 65th birthday, but many clinicians say that isn't long enough. University of Auckland Associate Professor and Vaccinologist Helen Petousis-Harris is with Jesse to discuss.
In this podcast, experts Jacinda (JAM) Abdul-Mutakabbir, PharmD, MPH; Ruth Carrico, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, FAAN; and Dalilah Restrepo, MD, discuss improving shingles vaccine uptake. Topics covered include: The Burden of ShinglesCare Coordination Between Primary and Specialty CarePromoting Shingles Vaccine Series CompletionAddressing Disparities in Shingles Vaccine Access and Uptake Presenters:Jacinda (JAM) Abdul-Mutakabbir, PharmD, MPHAssociate Professor of Clinical PharmacyUniversity of California, San DiegoDepartment of Pharmacy Practice and Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesDivision of the Black Diaspora and African American StudiesLa Jolla, CaliforniaRuth Carrico, PhD, DNP, FNP-C, FAANSenior PartnerCarrico & Ramirez PLLCProfessor, AdjunctDivision of Infectious DiseasesUniversity of Louisville School of MedicineLouisville, KentuckyDalilah Restrepo, MDInfectious Diseases SpecialistUniversity of California, IrvineLos Alamitos HospitalOrange County, California Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For Sunday Science, Nightlife regular Dr Chris Smith joins tonight to talk shingles vaccine, vitamin D deficiencies and space junk.
This week, we examine a herpes zoster vaccination that can reduce or delay dementia diagnosis. How does it work? Plus, the BBC's Zoe Kleinman explains a social media site for AI chatbots, the discovery of microplastics in remote parts of the Pacific Ocean, and why the Artemis II launch has been delayed once more... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists
A large Lancet meta-analysis found no clinically meaningful association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability after restricting analyses to adjusted and sibling-comparison studies, with odds ratios essentially null; acetaminophen remains first-line for pain and fever in pregnancy. A Nordic BMJ case-control study of more than 17,000 gastric cancer cases found no increased risk of non-cardia adenocarcinoma with long-term proton pump inhibitor use after comprehensive confounder adjustment. Finally, a U.S. cohort study of older adults linked shingles vaccination to lower inflammation and slower biological aging across multiple systems, though causality cannot be confirmed due to observational design.
Send Zorba a message!Dr. Zorba looks at important new research that shows the Shingles vaccine may slow down dementia. He also helps out listeners with questions about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), Cologuard, and if rhubarb affects glucose levels. We hear a Mom Joke from Karl's mom, and Zorba goes up in smoke with the Cannabis Cops.Support the showProduction, edit, and music by Karl Christenson Send your question to Dr. Zorba (he loves to help!): Phone: 608-492-9292 (call anytime) Email: askdoctorzorba@gmail.com Web: www.doctorzorba.org Stay well!
Joined by BBC Brazil reporter Camilla Mota, presenter Claudia Hammond discusses new research from the U.S. that has found that people who have had a vaccine against shingles seem to be aging more slowly.We hear from James Tibenderana, Chief Executive of Malaria Consortium about research from Brazil that shows that as deforestation expands, mosquitoes are increasingly using humans as a blood source instead of wildlife. What does this mean for the spread of mosquito-borne diseases?Plus, why does Brazil have a particularly high number of supercentenarians? And could swearing make you stronger?Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Hannah Robins Assistant Producers: Jonathan Blackwell and Anna Charalambou
Send Zorba a message!Dr. Zorba looks at important new research that shows the Shingles vaccine may slow down dementia. He also helps out listeners with questions about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), Cologuard, and if rhubarb affects glucose levels. We hear a Mom Joke from Karl's mom, and Zorba goes up in smoke with the Cannabis Cops.Support the showProduction, edit, and music by Karl Christenson Send your question to Dr. Zorba (he loves to help!): Phone: 608-492-9292 (call anytime) Email: askdoctorzorba@gmail.com Web: www.doctorzorba.org Stay well!
Dr. K explains shingles, including why aging increases risk, symptoms and treatment, how it can cause chronic pain, and the many benefits of the shingles vaccine.
Dr. Dane Breker, a Specialist in Neuro-Ophthalmology with Sanford Health, talks about the link between the cause of shingles and how a new study shows a significant possibility in diminishing the chance of dementia after taking the shingles vaccine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Researchers say a shingles vaccine could slow the progression of dementia and lower the risk of dying from it. Earlier this year, they produced the strongest evidence yet that the vaccine might reduce the risk of getting dementia in the first place. Dr. Nathan Stall, a clinician scientist and geriatrics lead at Sinai Health explains why shingles may be linked to cognitive decline and how a shingles vaccine could help.
We already knew that the shingles vaccine reduces the risk of developing dementia, but new research has shown that it also slows the progression of the disease. BBC journalist Laura Foster discusses why this might be happening.Can a negative mindset reduce the effectiveness of medical treatments? Claudia speaks with Dr Katharina Schmidt in Essen, Germany to find out about her new research on the “nocebo effect”, and learn what it means for healthcare providers.Peru has one of the highest burdens of tuberculosis in Latin America and it's a major public health challenge. Reporter Jane Chambers meets one group of health professionals working in Carabayllo who are determined to turn that around.Why the time of day you take your immunotherapy cancer medication might impact its success. Plus, can self-administered hypnosis describing cool, snowy mountains help sooth hot flashes associated with the menopause?Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Hannah Robins Assistant Producer: Georgia Christie
New research suggests that the two-dose shingles vaccine may slow the progression of dementia. We spoke with Dr. Browne about this. Plus, Australian scientists have developed a needle-free vaccine patch technology that could make traditional injections a thing of the past. We got Dr. Browne's take on this. Image Courtesy of Griffin Health
A study on one variety of shingles vaccine already showed it cut diagnoses of mild cognitive impairment. Now researchers have dug deeper into the data – and found the shot could slow progression of dementia in those who already have it.And: People in Minnesota are bracing for more U.S. immigration agents to arrive in their state. Specifically targeting its large Somali population. It comes after Donald Trump told immigrants from the African country to go back to where they came from.Also: Legislators and industry groups are in Washington, D.C. for CUSMA hearings. The free trade agreement is up for review next year. And the results of these talks could change the nature of the trade relationship between Canada, the U.S., and Mexico for years to come.Plus: B.C. Conservative leader fights ouster, debate over Montreal port expansion, the benefits of singing for stroke patients, and more.
Credits: 0.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ CME/CE Information and Claim Credit: https://www.pri-med.com/online-education/podcast/frankly-speaking-cme-453 Overview: Many patients are still hesitant about the shingles vaccine, but the benefits go far beyond preventing a painful rash. Hear how varicella zoster vaccination can also reduce the risks of postherpetic neuralgia, dementia, and cardiovascular events, giving you powerful tools to guide more informed patient decisions. Episode resource links: Dementia: Neurol Sci. 2024 Jan;45(1):27-36. doi: 10.1007/s10072-023-07038-7 CV: J Infect Dis. 2025 Feb 28:jiaf105. doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiaf105 Guest: Robert A. Baldor MD, FAAFP Music Credit: Matthew Bugos Thoughts? Suggestions? Email us at FranklySpeaking@pri-med.com
Credits: 0.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ CME/CE Information and Claim Credit: https://www.pri-med.com/online-education/podcast/frankly-speaking-cme-453 Overview: Many patients are still hesitant about the shingles vaccine, but the benefits go far beyond preventing a painful rash. Hear how varicella zoster vaccination can also reduce the risks of postherpetic neuralgia, dementia, and cardiovascular events, giving you powerful tools to guide more informed patient decisions. Episode resource links: Dementia: Neurol Sci. 2024 Jan;45(1):27-36. doi: 10.1007/s10072-023-07038-7 CV: J Infect Dis. 2025 Feb 28:jiaf105. doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiaf105 Guest: Robert A. Baldor MD, FAAFP Music Credit: Matthew Bugos Thoughts? Suggestions? Email us at FranklySpeaking@pri-med.com
Updates on GLP-1 drugs in heart failure, β-blockers after myocardial infarction, the shingles vaccine, and more: Felix Mahfoud, MD, chair of the Department of Cardiology at University Hospital Basel, shares clinical research highlights from the recent European Society of Cardiology Congress. Related Content: GLP-1 Drugs in Heart Failure, β-Blockers After MI, the Shingles Vaccine, and More From ESC 2025
In a world where the word “vaccine” has become both a household term and a lightning rod for debate, it's easy to forget the remarkable impact immunizations have had on public health. In this episode of “The Valley Today,” host Janet Michael sat down with Dr. Jeff Feit, Valley Health's Population and Community Health Officer, to revisit the story of vaccines—past, present, and future. A Legacy of Prevention Dr. Feit, a former family doctor, recalls a time when diseases like measles, mumps, and polio were not just textbook topics, but real threats. “The smallpox vaccine was the original vaccine story,” he explains, noting that the eradication of smallpox stands as one of medicine's greatest triumphs. Since then, vaccines have saved an estimated 150 million children in the last 50 years, with over 93 million lives spared from measles alone. From Commonplace to Rare—and Back Again? For many clinicians today, diseases like measles are so rare that they've never seen a case. “We're lucky now,” Dr. Feit says, “but that luck is the result of decades of widespread vaccination.” He recounts how the introduction of certain vaccines virtually eliminated once-common causes of childhood hospitalization and death. Yet, as vaccination rates dip in some communities, these diseases threaten to return. The Expanding Vaccine Schedule Janet shares her own journey as a parent, navigating an ever-growing list of recommended vaccines. Dr. Feit explains the rationale: while some vaccines prevent common, deadly diseases, others—like the meningitis and HPV vaccines—target rarer but devastating illnesses. “If they're preventable, shouldn't we try to prevent them?” he asks. Dispelling Myths and Building Trust The conversation turns to vaccine hesitancy, fueled in part by misinformation and a breakdown in trust. Dr. Feit addresses the long-debunked myth linking vaccines to autism, emphasizing the importance of relying on credible, research-based sources. “There's just no evidence it's connected,” he says, urging listeners to consult trusted healthcare providers rather than social media. The COVID-19 Effect COVID-19 brought vaccines back into the spotlight, with new technologies and rapid development sparking both hope and skepticism. Dr. Feit acknowledges the challenges but points to overwhelming data: “The more vaccinated, the fewer people died of COVID.” He predicts that future generations will view COVID shots as routine, much like measles vaccines are today. A Call to Community Ultimately, Dr. Feit sees vaccination as an act of community care. “Public health is hard because it forces us to rely on one another,” he reflects. The benefits of vaccines extend beyond individual protection—they safeguard the most vulnerable among us. Where to Turn for Answers For those seeking reliable information, Dr. Feit recommends starting with reputable institutions like the Mayo Clinic or Cleveland Clinic, and—most importantly—building a trusting relationship with a primary care provider. “They know your family history and can help you make informed decisions,” he says. As the episode closes, Janet and Dr. Feit agree: education and open dialogue remain essential. Vaccines have transformed our world, but their story is still being written—one conversation, one community, and one shot at a time.
Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 6-05-2025: Dr. Dawn answers an email about Dupuytren's contracture treatment, explaining her clinic experience using acupuncture anesthesia combined with Traumeel injections directly into palm nodules. She describes how this anti-inflammatory homeopathic compound, when injected into tendon sheaths, can break the cycle of fibrosis formation. Dr. Dawn explores fascinating quantum physics concepts involving collagen microstructure, water molecules, and hydrogen ion movement that may explain how acupuncture and homeopathy work through crystalline formations in collagen tubules. She discusses vitamin A's critical role in measles complications, explaining how deficiency dramatically increases risks of encephalitis and cardiac damage. Dr. Dawn covers two forms of dietary vitamin A - beta carotene from plants requiring enzymatic conversion, and vitamin A from animal products. She warns about vitamin A toxicity risks, particularly birth defects in pregnancy, while noting that typical American diets are adequate unlike vitamin D. Dr. Dawn examines vitamin D deficiency affecting 68% of children in a South Florida study, linking inadequate levels to bone health, immune function, and gut barrier integrity. She explains how vitamin D receptors throughout the body regulate cell differentiation, insulin secretion, and tight junction formation that prevents leaky gut syndrome. There are higher deficiency rates in darker-skinned populations and the historical context of rickets during industrialization when urban environments blocked sunlight exposure. She highlights revolutionary medical technology, the world's smallest pacemaker for newborns, half the size of a rice grain. This injectable device dissolves naturally after hearts self-repair, controlled by light-emitting patches communicating through the baby's skin. This breakthrough eliminates risky surgical removal procedures that caused complications, such as Neil Armstrong's death from pacemaker wire infections. Dr. Dawn discusses research showing shingles vaccination reduces dementia risk by 20%, particularly in women. She explains the natural experiment in Wales where universal healthcare created clear vaccination cutoff dates, allowing researchers to compare dementia rates. Dr. Dawn hypothesizes that cross-immunity against herpes viruses may protect brain tissue, noting even stronger protection with newer Shingrix vaccines compared to older Zostavax. She covers alarming increases in invasive Group A Streptococcus infections, with cases more than doubling from 2013 to 2022. Dr. Dawn explains how flesh-eating bacteria secretes enzymes that dissolve epithelial barriers in throats and lungs, allowing systemic spread that destroys tissue. She links rising cases to increasing diabetes and obesity rates that compromise immune function, noting devastating mortality rates approaching 10,000 deaths nationwide. Dr. Dawn celebrates a breakthrough antibiotic discovery of Lariocidin which works against highly drug-resistant bacteria through novel protein synthesis inhibition. She explains how antibiotic resistance spreads between bacterial species just like social media memes, emphasizing the urgent need for new treatments as 4 million people die annually from resistant infections. Dr. Dawn advocates for public funding since pharmaceutical companies avoid antibiotic development due to poor profit margins. She answers an email about Epstein-Barr virus detection, explaining its role in mononucleosis, Burkitt's lymphoma, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Dr. Dawn describes how EBV can remain dormant and reactivate during stress or immunocompromise, potentially triggering autoimmunity. She discusses similarities between EBV reactivation, Lyme disease, and long COVID, suggesting they may represent variations of the same inflammatory syndrome with different triggers. She explores the nocebo effect - how negative expectations worsen outcomes - and its amplification through social media. Dr. Dawn cites studies showing people warned about erectile dysfunction or altitude headaches experience these symptoms more frequently. She discusses recent phenomena like TikTok-induced tics and vaccine side effect amplification, warning that online health information creates dangerous nocebo loops that spread faster than traditional word-of-mouth.
Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 6-05-2025: Dr. Dawn answers an email about Dupuytren's contracture treatment, explaining her clinic experience using acupuncture anesthesia combined with Traumeel injections directly into palm nodules. She describes how this anti-inflammatory homeopathic compound, when injected into tendon sheaths, can break the cycle of fibrosis formation. Dr. Dawn explores fascinating quantum physics concepts involving collagen microstructure, water molecules, and hydrogen ion movement that may explain how acupuncture and homeopathy work through crystalline formations in collagen tubules. She discusses vitamin A's critical role in measles complications, explaining how deficiency dramatically increases risks of encephalitis and cardiac damage. Dr. Dawn covers two forms of dietary vitamin A - beta carotene from plants requiring enzymatic conversion, and vitamin A from animal products. She warns about vitamin A toxicity risks, particularly birth defects in pregnancy, while noting that typical American diets are adequate unlike vitamin D. Dr. Dawn examines vitamin D deficiency affecting 68% of children in a South Florida study, linking inadequate levels to bone health, immune function, and gut barrier integrity. She explains how vitamin D receptors throughout the body regulate cell differentiation, insulin secretion, and tight junction formation that prevents leaky gut syndrome. There are higher deficiency rates in darker-skinned populations and the historical context of rickets during industrialization when urban environments blocked sunlight exposure. She highlights revolutionary medical technology, the world's smallest pacemaker for newborns, half the size of a rice grain. This injectable device dissolves naturally after hearts self-repair, controlled by light-emitting patches communicating through the baby's skin. This breakthrough eliminates risky surgical removal procedures that caused complications, such as Neil Armstrong's death from pacemaker wire infections. Dr. Dawn discusses research showing shingles vaccination reduces dementia risk by 20%, particularly in women. She explains the natural experiment in Wales where universal healthcare created clear vaccination cutoff dates, allowing researchers to compare dementia rates. Dr. Dawn hypothesizes that cross-immunity against herpes viruses may protect brain tissue, noting even stronger protection with newer Shingrix vaccines compared to older Zostavax. She covers alarming increases in invasive Group A Streptococcus infections, with cases more than doubling from 2013 to 2022. Dr. Dawn explains how flesh-eating bacteria secretes enzymes that dissolve epithelial barriers in throats and lungs, allowing systemic spread that destroys tissue. She links rising cases to increasing diabetes and obesity rates that compromise immune function, noting devastating mortality rates approaching 10,000 deaths nationwide. Dr. Dawn celebrates a breakthrough antibiotic discovery of Lariocidin which works against highly drug-resistant bacteria through novel protein synthesis inhibition. She explains how antibiotic resistance spreads between bacterial species just like social media memes, emphasizing the urgent need for new treatments as 4 million people die annually from resistant infections. Dr. Dawn advocates for public funding since pharmaceutical companies avoid antibiotic development due to poor profit margins. She answers an email about Epstein-Barr virus detection, explaining its role in mononucleosis, Burkitt's lymphoma, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Dr. Dawn describes how EBV can remain dormant and reactivate during stress or immunocompromise, potentially triggering autoimmunity. She discusses similarities between EBV reactivation, Lyme disease, and long COVID, suggesting they may represent variations of the same inflammatory syndrome with different triggers. She explores the nocebo effect - how negative expectations worsen outcomes - and its amplification through social media. Dr. Dawn cites studies showing people warned about erectile dysfunction or altitude headaches experience these symptoms more frequently. She discusses recent phenomena like TikTok-induced tics and vaccine side effect amplification, warning that online health information creates dangerous nocebo loops that spread faster than traditional word-of-mouth.
A new study out of the Stanford University School of Medicine showed that older adults who received the shingles vaccine were 20% less likely to develop dementia over the next seven years than those who didn't receive the vaccine. But what does this mean in terms of finding a tried and true cure to dementia, and who's more at risk than others? Host Pooja Handa speaks to Sabina Vohra-Miller, founder of Unambiguous Science, about the study's findings and what it for the future of the disease. You can find the study here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08800-x You can read more about Sabina's work here: https://www.instagram.com/unambiguousscience/We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstoryfpn on Twitter
Dr. Aileen Marty, Infectious Disease Specialist and Professor at Florida International University, joins Bob Sirott to talk about the latest health news. Dr. Marty answers questions about the chicken pox and shingles vaccines, as well as explains what Chikungunya is and if we could see an outbreak in the U.S.
Receiving a specific type of shingles vaccine may provide a 23% lower risk of cardiovascular events like stroke or heart failure for up to 8 years. With reports of other shingles vaccines protecting against the risk of dementia, scientists are trying to understand the mechanism underlying these unintended benefits.The WHO aim to eliminate the neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis from endemic countries by 2030, we investigate what might be standing in the way of this goal. After 18 years and over 200 snake bites, key protective compounds have been identified in Tim Friede's blood with the potential to make a snake antivenom with “unparalleled” protection. Also on the show, a trial led by Professors Adalsteinn Gunnlaugsson and Per Nilsson has shown that a prostate cancer treatment regimen that takes two-and-a-half weeks is as safe and effective as longer 8-week courses, ten years on from treatment. Plus, if you have celiac disease should you be worried about kissing someone who has just eaten gluten? A new study looks at how much gluten is exchanged in a kiss. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Hannah Robins Assistant Producer: Katie Tomsett Researcher: Tabby Taylor Buck Studio Managers: Cath McGee and Sarah Hockley
A new study reveals that receiving a shingles vaccine could not only lower the risk of infection but also have additional health benefits for the heart. Also, Al Roker goes behind the scenes at the Met Gala with a closer look at the names and looks from fashion's biggest night. Plus, the latest news and updates from the entertainment world.
Are there signs of life on another planet? Could a shingles vaccine prevent dementia? Do artificial sweeteners increase our appetite? How is obesity measured? Could there ever be a dementia vaccine? Dr Chris Smith and Clarence Ford have all the answers... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists
Are there signs of life on another planet? Could a shingles vaccine prevent dementia? Do artificial sweeteners increase our appetite? How is obesity measured? Could there ever be a dementia vaccine? Dr Chris Smith and Clarence Ford have all the answers... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists
A large study in Wales found that older adults who received the shingles vaccine had a 20% lower risk of developing dementia over seven years, with the strongest effect seen in women. U.S. measles cases have surged past 500, driven largely by outbreaks in West Texas and linked to international travel, underscoring critical gaps in vaccination coverage. Meanwhile, new research shows that even the wealthiest Americans have shorter life expectancies than their European peers, pointing to systemic health disadvantages in the U.S.
Canada will be imposing counter tariffs on the U.S. that mirror what the Americans are imposing on businesses here. That means 25 per cent on non-CUSMA-compliant vehicles. It's another weapon in the trade war ignited by U.S. President Donald Trump's moves yesterday – to reshape global commerce.And: On the campaign trail, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre says Trump's actions are ‘tariff madness.' He is pitching a policy of removing the GST from Canadian-made cars.Also: New research suggests getting the shingles vaccine could significantly lower your risk of dementia. It's some of the strongest evidence yet that viral infections impact long-term brain function. And preventing them could help protect your cognitive health.Plus: New measles cases in Ontario, Europe reacts to tariffs, and more.
Shingles is a skin infection that results from reactivation of the virus that causes chicken pox. It can occur in areas like the eye where it may compromise vision, and is also associated with persistent and unremitting pain at the … The shingles vaccine is on the do not miss list, Elizabeth Tracey reports Read More »
Highlights from Dr. Hoffman's west coast bike tripStudy: Light flickering promotes sleep and may protect the brain from dementiaCould a person be low in omega-6 fats?Do you recommend my husband and I get the latest shingles vaccine?
Researchers Are Exploring the Role of Shingles—and a Protective Role of Shingles Vaccine—in Dementia; Could the Body Roundness Index One Day Replace BMI? Related Content: Researchers Are Exploring the Role of Shingles—and a Protective Role of Shingles Vaccine—in Dementia Could the Body Roundness Index One Day Replace the BMI?
This week the hosts look at a study that found no evidence that depression is caused by low serotonin levels, and they discuss the importance of getting your shingles shot. […]
How does the new shingles vaccine compare to the previous one?