Avaaz Health

Everyone’s talking about them—the so-called “magic” weight-loss injections. But what’s actually fact vs. hype?In this episode, we break down GLP-1s (like Ozempic) in a physician-led, evidence-based conversation. How do these medications actually work in the body? Who are they truly for? What are the real benefits beyond weight loss—and what about the side effects and accessibility concerns?From appetite regulation and metabolic health to the risks, costs, and unanswered questions, we’re cutting through the noise to bring you clear, science-backed insights you can trust.Get the skinny on GLP-1s. Listen to the full episode on the Avaaz Health Podcast today.#GLP1 #Ozempic #WeightLossScience #EvidenceBasedMedicine #AvaazHealthShow Noteshttps://vancouversun.com/news/what-do-generic-versions-ozempic-wegovy-mean-bchttps://globalnews.ca/news/11609231/health-canada-glp-1-pill-rybelsus/https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/article/canadian-health-officials-warn-against-counterfeit-versions-of-ozempic-mounjaro/

Menopause is everywhere in the conversation right now—but not all the information is accurate.In our latest episode, “Not Your Mother’s Menopause,” we revisit this topic with the latest science-based guidance and break down what women need to know now:✨ What actually happens during perimenopause?✨ Who should consider Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT)? And for how long?✨ What exactly is genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) — and why does nobody talk about it?✨ If your libido changes, do you need testosterone?We unpack all of this in a physician-led, evidence-based conversation.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and watch the episode on Youtube.A huge thank you to the menopause experts whose work informed this episode:• Dr. Ardelle Piper — OBGYN, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner• Dr. Natalie Gamache — Gynecologist & menopause specialist• Dr. Woganee Filate — Respirologist & sleep medicine physician• Dr. Suzanne Rutherford — @thefitphysicianShow NotesMedical management of menopause symptoms: https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/dnd-mdn/documents/health/WDH_Clinician_Guide_Menopause.pdf Pocket Guide to Menopause Management: https://www.canadianmenopausesociety.org/sites/default/files/pdf/publications/Final-Pocket%20Guide.pdf Step by step approach to determine the safety of prescribing hormone therapy: https://thischangedmypractice.com/determine-safety-of-prescribing-hrt/  Menopause: Don't Sweat it: Part 1 - symptoms, by UBC CPD: https://thischangedmypractice.com/menopause-dont-sweat-it-part-1/What to know about bioidentical hormone therapy: https://menopausefoundationcanada.ca/pdf_files/What_to_Know_Bioidentical_EN.pdfGenitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) - a refresher: https://thischangedmypractice.com/genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause/Sexual counselling online: e-sense.com, IG: @esensehealth 

In this episode, we discuss how South Asian genes lead to higher risks for heart disease, diabetes, and other metabolic syndromes, at a younger age. We talk about what tests you should be asking for, what helps (and what doesn't), and the fascinating role of epigenetics in shaping our current health risk factors. Mubin Syed, MD, also know as @desidoc.md on Instagram, is a nationally recognised physician with almost 30 years of experience, specialising in endovascular therapy. He is also a health historian, a medtech entrepreneur, and a medical products inventor. His personal experience as a survivor of a heart attack, fuelled his desire to educate South Asians about their higher risks of disease, diabetes and other metabolic syndromes.  He is the author of a medical guide on pain treatment and two works focusing on the modern South Asian health crisis. He has been a TEDx speaker and was featured in the “Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies” PBS documentary, and in CNN International/ The Guardian and HuffPostUK. And he is the author of a new book, Healing From Our History: How Colonial-Era Famines Led to a Modern South Asian Health Crisis.You won’t want to miss this week’s episode. Resources ASCVD risk score (not a good indicator for S Asians) (https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/3398/ascvd-atherosclerotic-cardiovascular-disease-2013-risk-calculator-aha-acc MASALA study https://www.masalastudy.org/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4987009/https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-97605-z     

In many South Asian families, we talk about everything except the tough stuff—illness, prognosis, end-of-life wishes. Out of love, we avoid it. Out of habit, we call it fate.But the next generation is left guessing when it matters most.This episode breaks down why advance care planning isn’t disrespectful—it’s clarity, comfort, and care for your family.Let’s stop assuming. Let’s start talking.New episode out now. 🎙️✨Show Notes:Research/References:1.  CFPC Guide to Advance Care Planning2. https://bc-cpc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/ACP-Checklist_SPREAD.pdf3.https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/people/seniors/health-safety/pdf/myvoice_feb2013_pun.pdf (punjabi), https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/people/seniors/health-safety/pdf/hindi_myvoice_feb2020.pdf (hindi)4. Advance Care Planning in BC (youtube video in English with Punjabi subtitles)5.Serious Illness Conversation Guide6. Taking serious illness conversations seriously: Unveiling South Asian perspectives on advance care planning using the Serious Illness Conversation GuideIssue: BCMJ vol. 67 , No. 5 , June 2025 , Pages 166-173 Original Research

Ever wondered what contraception really is — and how it actually works? 💊✨In this episode, our doctors break down the basics:🔹 What contraception means (and why it’s more than just “birth control”)🔹 The different types available — from pills and IUDs to injections and condoms🔹 How each method works to safely and effectively prevent pregnancyWhether you’re exploring your options or just want to understand your body better, this conversation is for you.Let’s talk openly about choices, comfort, and control — because informed women make empowered decisions. 💪🏽💗🎧 Tune in now to Avaaz – your trusted doctor-led guide to reproductive health – wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also find us on YouTube#SouthAsianWomen #ContraceptionExplained #BirthControlEducation #DoctorPodcast #WomensHealthMatters #ReproductiveHealth #HealthAwareness Show Notes: https://www.jogc.com/article/S1701-2163(16)30033-0/fulltext  

In this episode of the Avaaz Podcast, we break down the myths, stigma, and science behind common infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and more — especially in South Asian communities where these conversations are often silenced.💡 Knowledge is power — and sexual health is health.🎧 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube.#AvaazPodcast #STIawareness #SexualHealth #SouthAsianHealth #LetsTalkAboutIt #Podcast #fyp

🩺 What is dementia really — and how can we better support those living with it? In this week’s episode, our regular podcast doctors, Dr. Madhu and Dr. Nav, break down the facts and myths about dementia. From early symptoms and diagnosis to treatment options and compassionate caregiving — we’re covering it all. 👩‍⚕️ Medical insight you can trust 💡 Simple explanations for complex conditions ❤️ Tips for families, caregivers & health professionals 🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more! #DementiaAwareness #BrainHealth #southasianwomen #MedicalPodcast #CaregivingTips #GeriatricMedicine #AvaazPodcast #HealthEducationShow Notes:https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en/help-support/programs-services/support-south-asian-communitieshttps://globalnews.ca/news/11309084/walking-alzheimers-reduce-risk/Experiences of dementia in South Asian communities in Canadahttps://www.cbc.ca/news/health/alzheimer-women-risks-1.7604574Dementia Village Pilot BC

🩺 Today we're discussing prenatal care on Season 6 of the Avaaz podcast.If you or someone you love is wanting to get pregnant, it's important to be prepared and make sure they're getting the medical information they need. In this episode we tell you what what to watch for, what tests to get done and how to prevent serious illness for mom and baby-to-be. While we delve into this topic, we also examine it from a South Asian lens. Are there any higher risks? We're joined by expert, Dr Dimithra Hippola, a family practice/obstetrics physician at BC Women's Hospital who has been practicing medicine 27 years. Show Notes:⁠https://pregnancyvancouver.ca/⁠⁠https://smartparentcanada.ca⁠⁠https://study.smartmomcanada.ca⁠

So many women suffer from pelvic pain, and they don’t know why.  In this episode, our doctors discuss a common reason for pelvic pain: endometriosis.Endometriosis is often under-diagnosed and under-treated in women, and even more so in South Asian women. We discuss  the barriers to diagnosis, including not wanting to talk about “taboo” topics like pelvic pain, and barriers to healthcare access, diagnosis and care in racialized communities.Join us for a frank discussion about the symptoms, causes, possible treatment options, and the burden of pelvic pain. We hope this episode leaves you feeling empowered to ask for help if you suffer from endometriosis or other causes of pelvic pain.Find us wherever you listen to podcasts, and watch us on YouTube. Links in bio!#healthpodcast #southasianwomen #pelvicpain #endometriosis 

In this episode of the Avaaz Podcast, we delve into Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a common condition. Having heartburn from time to time doesn't mean that you have GERD, but when heartburn bothers you often and lasts longer, this is GERD. What are the symptoms? What causes it? And how do we manage it? In this episode our team of doctors explore how cultural norms and dietary habits are causing GERD in many South Asian patients, and practical actions on what to do to prevent it or reduce its effects. (Spoiler: you may want to put down that second cup of cha!)Through expert insights and relatable stories, this episode aims to empower listeners with knowledge to recognize and manage GERD effectively. 

Join us on the Avaaz Podcast as we delve into the world of healthcare myths. We are sure you’ve heard some of these before!Do certain types of dishes cause Alzheimer’s Disease?Are scented candles bad for you?Multivitamins: Do they really improve your health?How about vaccines and autism - is there a link?Our expert doctors - Dr Madhu and Dr Nav, answer some of the most common questions and tackle misconceptions with our moderator and host, Rup. Tune in to uncover the truth and empower yourself with knowledge. Listen wherever you get your podcasts - links are in the bio.

Join the Avaaz podcast team as we dive deep into the topic of anemia, as always with a focus on its impact on the South Asian community. In this episode, Dr Madhu, Dr, Nav and our moderator Rup explore the causes, common misconceptions, and effective treatments for this widespread condition.Discover why South Asian women are particularly vulnerable to iron deficiency anemia, with approximately 40% of the population struggling with this condition. We'll unpack the cultural, dietary, and social factors that contribute to this high incidence, including: The role of vegetarian diets in iron deficiency Cultural attitudes towards menstruation and their impact on anemia Cultural barriers preventing women from seeking care from male healthcare providersOur expert hosts will debunk common myths surrounding anemia and provide practical advice for prevention and treatment. From dietary changes to supplement recommendations, we'll cover everything you need to know to take charge of your health.Don't miss this informative and potentially life-changing episode of the Avaaz podcast. Whether you're concerned about your own health or that of a loved one, this episode offers valuable insights into managing anemia in the South Asian community and beyond.

We are all familiar with childhood vaccinations. But what about vaccinations as adults?   We forget that as we get older there are important immunizations that we should get to prevent us from falling seriously ill, including hospitalizations and in rare cases death.   In this episode one of gets immunized for shingles – live and on the mic and camera for you to hear and see.   Let us explain the symptoms and prevention of some adult routine immunizations you should get for yourself and your loved ones.    Listen on Spotify or Apple. Or watch on our Youtube channel. All the links you’ll need are at the link in our bio.   #avaaz #adult immunizations #gettheshot #womenphysicians #southasianwomen    

n this Avaaz podcast we tackle Osteoporosis and the relevance for South Asian Women   Imagine your bones as a bank account. When you're young, your body deposits more bone than it withdraws. But as you age, the balance changes, and you start withdrawing more than you deposit. This loss of bone density is what leads to osteoporosis.   It’s particularly important for women, especially those post-menopause because osteoporosis leads to weakened bones and increased fracture risk. And  fractures can limit mobility and lead to loss of independence.   Show Notes   https://osteoporosis.ca/   https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis-related-fractures-2020.html#a2   https://www.uptodate.com/contents/osteoporosis-prevention-and-treatment-beyond-the-basics   https://www.uptodate.com/contents/calcium-and-vitamin-d-for-bone-health-beyond-the-basics   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7755868/   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176015/   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26527900/  

Urinary issues in women   Incontinence is a bladder control issue that affects a lot more women than we think. And it can really affect your quality of life.   It can cause leaking of urine while you do everyday activities like lifting, coughing, exercising, sneezing, laughing.  Or leaking during sex. It can also mean you can’t hold in your urine when you feel like you suddenly have a strong urge to pee. You might leak urine without any warning, or not be able to reach a toilet in time. You might even have some wetting of your bed while you sleep.   Find out what it means and what can be done about it in the latest podcast episode of Avaaz.   Link to the episode is in the bio.   Show Notes: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/urinary-incontinence-in-women-beyond-the-basics   https://www.uptodate.com/contents/urinary-incontinence-treatments-for-women-beyond-the-basics?topicRef=2727&source=see_link   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17962234/    

Sleep – some of us can’t get enough.   Women in their 40s-50s experience significant life changes such as menopause, family responsibilities, career stress and other shifts. In this episode on sleep issues for women, we talk about how a lack of sleep affects physical, emotional, and cognitive health. And of course, what we can do about it.

We've been hearing about it in the news, on socials and even at visits with family physicians...fatty liver is exactly what it sounds like. It's extra fat in the liver that creates inflammation, and can lead to health complications. And it's more prevalent in South Asian women. Find out how to get tested, and how to prevent this disease. All the details in this episode of the Avaaz podcast. Show notes https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9916127/

  SUPERWOMAN! YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL? BUT DO YOU REALLY WANT TO DO IT ALL??   Is the Superwoman phenomenon an unfair label, an unattainable goal? Is this undue pressure on us to do more and be more creating consequences on women’s mental and physical health? We discuss feelings of mother guilt and daughter guilt, and how we can prioritize ourselves.   We talk with Pink Chai founder and former self-describe Superwoman, Raj Thandhi on how she’s navigated being a mom, wife, daughter, business owner and friend and what she’s learned to let go of – for her well being.   Show Notes: Follow Raj Thandi online at https://www.instagram.com/pinkchai/?hl=en and https://www.youtube.com/c/PinkChai    

MOVING FORWARD SOMETIMES MEANS LOOKING BACK   We share the mic with registered clinical counsellor, Amrita Kaur Sandhu in this episode where we delve into how trauma from previous generations of our ancestors can show up in our own life.   We discuss external validation and self-esteem and how many South Asian women struggle with low self-worth. Amrita explains that this often comes from feeling conditionally loved and accepted due to being praised when one is achieving but also feeling ignored or scolded if not achieving.  These are two of the common concerns that Amrita sees in her practice where she serves adults dealing with anxiety, depression or stress management. An enlightening conversation for anyone interested in their mental health and how it relates to their physical health!   Show Notes: Book referenced https://markwolynn.com/it-didnt-start-with-you/   Amrita Kaur Sandhu is online at https://therapycovecounselling.com/  

We continue our conversation with Dr. Lucky Sekhon, Infertility Specialist, talking about fertility, challenges in getting pregnant, and the relevance to South Asian women. In our conversation Dr. Lucky shares her expertise on IVF, egg retrieval, and advocating for patients. We discuss destigmatizing fertility issues, helping empower women by educating them about their reproductive health, and enabling informed decision-making regarding their fertility. Show Notes Follow Dr. Lucky online at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucky.sekhon/ and  Personal Website https://theluckyegg.com/ Company Website https://www.rmany.com/our-team/physicians/dr-lucky-sekhon  

In this episode we raise awareness about fertility issues that many women face and discuss the latest advancements in fertility treatments and technologies.   We have the influential and popular Dr. Lucky Sekhon, Infertility Specialist, on our Avaaz podcast in this two-part series. Dr. Lucky shares her knowledge and experience to provide expert insights and clarify common misconceptions about fertility and reproductive health.    Dr. Lucky Sekhon is a double board certified OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist & Infertility specialist practicing at RMA of New York, and is on faculty as an assistant clinical professor in the Dept of OBGYN at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She is passionate about empowering people by educating them about their reproductive health and options for fertility preservation and family building and spends time outside of her regular work day to create content, myth-bust, and educate about reproductive health on social media.   

How has code-switching and parentification impacted you? In today’s episode we engage with Harpo Mander, community builder, cultural producer and Executive Director of 5X Fest on her personal experiences with both behaviours.   Code-switching is when people who speak more than one language uses their languages within a single conversation – often to make others or themselves comfortable, to fit in, or gain acceptance for others. Sound familiar?   Do you feel like you were pushed into taking care of your parents or siblings when you were only a child yourself? That you became an adult before you were ready for the role? If so, you may have been parentified. Many of us can relate, especially first born daughters.  

If you thought measles was a disease of the past, this is hte episode for you! Measles activity is increasing in Canada with 56 cases as of April 6, 2024 compared to 12 cases for the full year of 2023. And it's a huge health risk for our loved ones. Measles can cause serious complications such as hospitalization, pneumonia, swelling of the brain, respiratory failure, permanent neurological damage, and even death.

For those 50,000 or so of us who were fortunate enough to watch Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh perform at BC Place Stadium, this is our post show analysis. Avaaz was lucky to be there and we talk about what the show meant to each of us. Let us know what you think!

Allergies? It’s spring and you have a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, or red, itchy, watery eyes.   Will your asthma be worse because of smoke from summer wildfires?    Do you even need sunscreen if you’re darker skinned?   Swimming season is almost here – do you know the facts about water safety?   In this episode, we discuss some common medical situations we see as head into warmer weather. Fingers crossed for sunshine and good health as we Spring into Summer!   Show Notes:   https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/hay-fever-and-other-seasonal-allergies   https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/safety-tips-swimmers   https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/climate-change/adaptation/health/final_climate_change_and_health_backgrounder_overview.pdf    

Celiac disease is a digestive problem that affects our small intestine – it’s when an individual is sensitive to gluten. We discuss this in today’s podcast because it affects more South Asians than other groups. A study done in the UK that showed that the incidence of Celiac disease amongst Punjabi migrants is three times that of other Europeans. Listen to the episode – link is in the bio!     Show Notes: Punjabis and Coeliac Disease: A Wake-Up Call  

This is the second part in the two-part series on substance use disorder. Drs Nav and Madhu and host Rup interview interview Ms Manraaj Grewal and Mr Gurkirat Nijjar of SOUDA ​​(Students Overcoming Substance Use Disorder & Addictions).  Eye-opening information on what's next, how we can help reduce the stigma of drug use disorder and how we can help.

Focusing on substance use diorder as it pertains to drug use, we interview Ms Manraaj Grewal and Mr Gurkirat Nijjar of SOUDA ​​(Students Overcoming Substance Use Disorder & Addictions). This mind-blowing conversation will leave you with both questions and answers and it'll empower you to take action. Show Notes: https://www.fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/south-asian-health/south-asian-toxic-drug-crisis-resources (videos and resources in Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu) Home-based Addictions Support and Detox program resource (available in BC) https://www.options.bc.ca/program/home-based-addictions-support-and-detox-program How to use Naloxone (Narcan) on Vimeo

Have a listen to Dr Madhu and Dr Nav as they flex their bilingual skills on Sher-E-Punjab radio talking about all things Avaaz podcast. In this interview they talk about depression, alcohol use disorder and intimate partner violence.

South Asians are at higher risk than other populations for developing heart disease, we should know this and take care of ourselves BEFORE we develop symptoms. Heart disease can be prevented by addressing behavioural risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet, obesity, physical inactivity and harmful use of alcohol. Show Notes: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(cvds) https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-clinics/stanford-south-asian-translational-heart-initiative/conditions.html#:~:text=South%20Asians%20have%20a%20four,heart%20disease%20in%20South%20Asians. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7646689/      

High blood pressure, medically known as hypertension, is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it may show no symptoms. But it can have serious complications – affecting your heart, brain, kidneys and even eyes. And South Asians are at a higher risk of hypertension – women especially – who have unique risk factors.   Show Notes: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2022.880374/full https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6387617/  

Ever find yourself thinking:   “I don’t deserve this promotion.”  “I just got really lucky.”  “Someone will realize soon that I don’t know what I’m doing.”   You may be experiencing Imposter Syndrome. A feeling more prevalent among women, and specifically women of color, where they feel undeserving of their achievements. Join our discussion on today’s Avaaz Podcast.

Is this PCOS, or am I just Indian?   PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is caused by hormone imbalance, causing everything from irregular periods, excessive facial body hair, difficulty getting pregnant, and more longer term complications. Get our doctors’ observations on PCOS, who it impacts, how to control it, and hear about unique cultural considerations. Link in bio for today’s podcast👆🏽   Show Notes: https://pcos.together.ualberta.ca/ https://pcos.together.ualberta.ca/resources/pcos_faq/   https://pcoschallenge.org/pcos-faq/    

Cervix screening is recommended for anyone with a cervix, between the ages of 25 and 69. Screening helps find cervical cancer before symptoms develop. And now there’s a new self-screening program to help detect cervical cancer that is an alternative to the Pap exam at the Doctor’s office. This one you do in the comfort of your home. Will you try it? Show Notes: https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/cervical/statistics   www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/cervix   www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/cervix/clinic-locator   For more information on HPV vaccine, www.immunizebc.ca/hpv   Link to the Punjabi YouTube video on “Screening for Cervical Cancer: Pap Test” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIJqMlQ1o4M   Cervix Screening Fact Sheet in Punjabi: http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/Documents/Cervix-Screening-Fact-Sheet-Punjabi.pdf

In today’s episode we talk about screening for colon cancer, which in our opinion really isn’t discussed often enough in any community, even though it’s becoming increasingly diagnosed. Find out how colon cancer screening saves lives and how to know if you’re at risk. There’s lots to digest in this episode! Show Notes: https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/colorectal/statistics   www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/colon   FIT testing http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/colon/get-screened/what-is-the-fit   FIT instructions in Punjabi:  http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/Documents/FIT-Instructions-Punjabi.pdf   Link to Punjabi YouTube video on “Screening for Colon Cancer: FIT” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLIexoxF6Qs   Colonoscopy Fact Sheet in Punjabi: http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/Documents/Colonoscopy-Fact-Sheet-Punjabi.pdf   Link to the Punjabi YouTube video on "Screening for Colon Cancer: Colonoscopy": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N--S9IlzBkw   Colon Screening Fact Sheet in Punjabi: http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/Documents/Colon-Screening-Fact-Sheet-Punjabi.pdf  

Dense breasts? Celebrating your 40th birthday soon? Abnormal mammogram results? Know what this means and what breast cancer screening does. 🏵🏵What is radon? Why do you need to test if it's seeping into your home. Does lung cancer affect people who don't smoke? 🚬Get the answers at the link in the bio. Cancer of the chest includes breast cancer and lung cancer. That's why we're talking about them both in this podcast episode.

We're talking about the purpose and benefits of cancer screening. Learn why South Asian women, whether new immigrants or established in western countries for a long time, tend to get diagnosed with various cancers later and with advanced disease at their initial diagnosis. SHOW NOTES www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening www.bccancer.bc.ca/prevent “Cancer screening behaviours among south asian immigrants in the UK, USand Canada: A scoping study” by Crawford et al. Health & Social Care in the Community, 2016. 24(2): 123-153. https://www.ted.com/talks/dr_sharlene_gill_how_to_flip_the_script_on_cancer?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare

We want to end our first season with a look back at our own Christmas traditions growing up. What were your annual Christmas highlights as a child? Shownotes Despite what you might hear in this episode, Santa is as real as your belief in him.

Alcohol use disorder affects not only those suffering from it, but affects their families and loved ones as well.We hope the information in this week’s podcast sheds light on common misconceptions about drinking alcohol. Please drink responsibly and take care of your health while enjoying time with your loved ones. Show Notes https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2023-01/CCSA_Canadas_Guidance_on_Alcohol_and_Health_Final_Report_en.pdf https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder https://www.cmaj.ca/content/195/40/E1364#msdynttrid=_oWgpRM-jmuac4pE2Gvzlt6MrVwovUvId5jsyNQdgqE

In today's podcast we tackle the difficult conversation about the types of domestic violence, how they translate in real life, signs to watch for and resources to get help. Please note that this episode contains depictions of violence that some people may find disturbing. Show Notes:Find family violence resources and services in your area - Canada.ca ShelterSafe.ca Provides information to help connect women and their children across Canada with the nearest shelter for safety & support https://women-gender-equality.canada.ca/en/gender-based-violence/intimate-partner-violence.html https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/85-002-x/2021001/article/00008-eng.htm https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/relationship-violence/intimate-partner-violence-and-abuse https://www.un.org/en/coronavirus/what-is-domestic-abuse

Listen as Dr Nav, Dr Madhu and moderator, Rup, talk about the risks, signs and complications surrounding diabetes. Learn how to calculate your risk. Shownotes: Canrisk calculator ⁠https://www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/en/canrisk⁠ https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/index.html https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663510/ https://www.diabetes.ca/DiabetesCanadaWebsite/media/Advocacy-and- Policy/Backgrounder/2022_Backgrounder_Canada_English_1.pdf https://newsroom.carleton.ca/story/south-asians-increased-risk-diabetes/#:~:text=Genetic%20variants&text=Compared%20to%20Caucasians%2C%20South%20Asians,characteristic%20of%20Type%202%20diabetes.

Trigger Warning: This podcast contains reference to suicide. Many people suffer from various mental health conditions and women are disproportionally affected. Dr Nav, Dr Jiti and Dr Madhu and Rup discuss mental health and mental wellness and how to navigate it. Show Notes Where to turn to for help? Talk Suicide Canada (Suicide crisis line) 1-833-456-4566 psychologytoday.com https://cmha.ca/brochure/fast-facts-about-mental-illness/ https://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/publicat/miic-mmac/pdf/men_ill_e.pdf https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-631-x/2020004/s3-eng.htm

How to navigate taking care of both aging parents and the needs of your children with the right resources, self-care, and shared responsibilities. Join Rup, Dr Nav and Dr Madhu in this informative conversation about the sandwich generation. Show Notes Statistics on caregiving in Canada https://angusreid.org/caregiving/

Why is The Barbie Movie so relevant to women and our experiences? Rup, Drs. Nav and Madhu discuss emerging themes, a profound monologue and feminism in this podcast. Show Notes America Ferrara (Gloria) monologue from the Barbie movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsY9c9WodcE

October 18th is World Menopause Day! Have a listen to our first episode where we have a conversation about menopause, symptoms, treatments and our shared experiences as south asian women and physicians.Show Notes:Website resource: menopause.org Book: Menipause Manifesto by Dr Jen Gunter The Daily NYT Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Gr9UDLN9kX7eBWzgNWV7J?si=pJ1F7X8RSEK4xPLy9huRdQ&nd=1

Avaaz, the Introduction Welcome to Avaaz, the health podcast for South Asian women. Meet your medical panelists  Dr. Nav, Dr. Madhu and Dr. Jiti, and host, Rup as we begin spreading some light on current women's health topics.