The Prevention Playbook

High blood pressure affects more than 1 in 4 adults and is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide — yet many people who have it don't even know it. This episode kicks off a 3-part mini-series on hypertension by breaking down exactly what high blood pressure is, why it silently damages your heart and blood vessels over time, and what's actually driving it — from salt and alcohol, to genetics and certain medications. You'll also learn who should be screening and when, including why some people in their 20s and 30s shouldn't wait. If you want to understand one of the most important ways you can improve long-term health and reduce your cardiovascular risk, this is where to start.

In this first episode of the The Prevention Playbook, Dr. Goldis Mitra pulls back the curtain on the silent "clogged pipes" of the human body: cardiovascular disease.Dr. Mitra argues that heart and blood vessel health is actually about freedom—the freedom to travel without needing a dialysis machine or simply walk up the stairs without gasping for air. Think of a cardiovascular risk assessment as a high-stakes home inspection: you’re hunting for the leaks and faulty wiring before the whole house crumbles. From debunking the "I feel fine" myth to explaining why your genetics might lead you to face unique hurdles, this episode is a wake-up call to start screening early. Whether you’re 20 or 60, it’s time to stop leaving your quality of life to chance and start investing in the 80-year-old version of yourself.

The Prevention Playbook is hosted by family physician Dr. Goldis Mitra. Primary care is in crisis everywhere, and not all the health information out there is backed by solid evidence. Dr. Mitra cuts through the noise with practical, evidence-based guidance on the preventive care and lifestyle habits you need to stay healthy long-term — explaining not just what to do, but why. Drawing on reputable guidelines and research, free from pharmaceutical or commercial funding, the show breaks down complex health topics into accessible, bite-sized episodes that help you take real ownership of your health.