The Modern Medicine Podcast

Dennis welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Long, radiation oncologist, founder of the Near Death Experience Research Foundation, and author of “Evidence of the Afterlife,” to discuss near-death experiences (NDEs). Long describes how he began researching NDEs after reading a JAMA article during residency and says he has reviewed over 4,000 accounts, concluding NDEs are real and not explainable by physical brain function. He outlines common NDE elements (out-of-body perception, tunnel, light, “heavenly” realm, life review, encounters with deceased loved ones/pets, choice to return) and reports major aftereffects such as decreased fear of death, increased belief in an afterlife, compassion, and life changes. They discuss evidence against hypoxia, medication effects, and hallucination explanations, including NDEs under anesthesia and in blind individuals, plus cross-cultural and young-child similarity. The episode also covers news on GLP-1 drugs and substance use, a Lyme vaccine, AI safety concerns, easing licensure for foreign-trained doctors, nursing home antipsychotic use, plus cover-song favorites and brief Boston sports talk.   Topics 00:53 Meet Dr Jeffrey Long 02:07 How NDE Research Began 04:16 Science Versus Materialism 08:24 Core NDE Elements 11:05 Aftereffects and Life Changes 14:56 Hyperlucid Memories 16:16 Why Not Hallucinations 16:51 Anesthesia Blindness and Culture 22:43 Time and Nonlinear Reality 24:59 Takeaway We Are More 27:33 Hosts Reflect After Interview 30:11 In the News Segment Begins 30:38 GLP1s and Addiction 32:25 Lyme Vaccine Update 35:15 AI Medical Safety Concerns 37:04 AI Misses Heart Pause 38:04 Chatbots and Mental Health Risks 38:56 Licensing Foreign Doctors 41:16 Antipsychotics in Nursing Homes 44:14 Greatest Cover Songs Debate 50:46 Boston Sports Minute Drama 55:25 Red Sox Early Season Check 57:55 Celtics and Bruins Outlook 59:27 Final Thanks and Sign Off  

Dennis dedicates the episode to his late father Dennis J. Teehan Sr., who died of cancer, featuring his oncologist Dr. Erin DeRose from Beth Israel Needham Cancer Center. DeRose shares her path into oncology, her experience in community practice, and the “best of both worlds” model: intimate, accessible suburban care with strong links to Boston specialists, tumor boards, clinical trials, and second opinions. They discuss rising lung cancer in never-smokers, screening debates and risks of incidental findings, risk factors like secondhand smoke, occupational exposures, family history, and radon, and advances from targeted therapies (including EGFR) and immunotherapy, plus emerging approaches like CAR-T, bispecifics, and antibody-drug conjugates alongside concerns about cost and access. They critique direct-to-consumer cancer blood tests, discuss prognosis conversations, then cover news on rising US life expectancy, GLP-1 benefits versus insurer losses, AI in diagnosis, and ultra-processed carbs, ending with March Madness, St. Patrick’s Day, and Boston sports.   Topics 01:00 Episode Dedication 02:06 Dr. Erin DeRose Background 05:59 Needham Cancer Center 07:04 Best of Both Worlds 12:52 Lung Cancer Screening 17:21 Non Smoking Risk Factors 19:40 Targeted Therapy Breakthroughs 23:34 Future of Cancer Care 26:23 Access and Cost Questions 28:03 Blood Tests for Screening 30:59 Talking Prognosis Compassionately 34:43 Closing Thanks and Advocacy 35:14 Post Interview Reflections 35:44 Cancer Care Shoutout 36:42 Life Expectancy Rebound 40:18 GLP One Benefits Debate 41:09 Insurance Coverage Crunch 42:09 Ozempic Safety Reality 43:50 AI In The Clinic 46:25 Good Carbs Vs Bad 49:34 March Madness Talk 52:00 St Patricks Day Bits 53:33 Boston Sports Minute 57:44 Wrap Up And Thanks

Dennis welcomes fitness director Guy Caracciolo from Dedham Health and Athletic Complex to discuss New Year's fitness resolutions. They delve into the importance of gradually starting an exercise regimen, especially for those new to fitness, and highlight the 60-60 program designed to help individuals integrate exercise into their lives safely. The episode also examines recent health news, including the correlation between CRP levels and heart disease, the ineffectiveness of cannabis-based medicines for pain relief, and the financial hardship associated with surgical procedures. Additionally, the show covers the impact of daylight savings on health and the importance of kidney disease awareness. To close, Dennis and producer Dave engage in a spirited discussion about the upcoming AFC Championship game, snowstorm etiquette, and the role of ownership in the success of Boston sports franchises.   Topics 00:40 Introducing Fitness Expert Guy Caracciolo 02:25 Gym Anecdotes and Safety Tips 04:14 Guy Karachi's Fitness Journey 06:15 Overview of Dedham Health and Athletic Complex 09:09 The 60/60 Medical Wellness Program 11:06 Exercise Benefits and Barriers 27:04 Doctors and Exercise Prescriptions 31:48 In the News Segment 32:04 CRP Levels and Heart Disease 33:37 Daylight Savings Time and Health 35:58 Cannabis and Chronic Pain 38:52 Financial Hardship After Surgery 40:12 Chronic Kidney Disease Awareness 42:29 Patriots and Altitude Sickness 46:20 Snowstorm Etiquette 51:21 Boston Sports Minute 01:00:45 Conclusion and Sign-Off

The episode features a compelling discussion with Dr. Michael Hamrock, an expert in addiction medicine from Boston Medical Center, Brighton. Dr. Hamrock shares his insights on addiction, its impact on families, and effective treatment strategies. The conversation covers public health perspectives, the opioid crisis, the role of physicians in pain management, and mental health dual diagnoses. The episode also touches upon the challenge of helping loved ones with substance abuse issues and offers practical advice for families. Additionally, the hosts delve into current health news, such as the impact of commercialization of cannabis on teen mental health and new cancer detection tests. The episode concludes with a spirited debate on the worst Christmas songs, a reflection on the Patriots' recent game, and well-wishes for the holiday season.   Topics 12:02 The Impact of Addiction on Families 18:10 Challenges in Treating Substance Abuse 21:57 Cannabis and Mental Health 29:06 In the News: Cannabis and Psychosis 33:37 In the News: Early Cancer Detection 35:25 In the News: Pre-Diabetes and Cardiovascular Risk 38:53 In the News: Ozempic and Cardiovascular Benefits 40:12 The Impact of Losing Medication Coverage 40:37 The Cost and Challenges of Weight Loss Medications 42:28 Insurance Companies and the Healthcare Tug of War 43:10 Anxiety, Insomnia, and Immune Function 44:35 The Importance of Sleep and Exercise 47:34 Listener Mailbag: Measles Booster Shots 50:20 Non-Medical Topic: Worst Christmas Songs 54:39 Sports Talk: DK Metcalf Incident and Boston Sports 01:05:03 Wrapping Up: Holiday Wishes and Final Thoughts

Dennis welcomes Dr. Smita Das, a clinical associate professor from Stanford, to discuss the health effects of marijuana, a topic that's gaining importance. They delve into marijuana legalization, its impact on public health, misinformation surrounding it, and the neuropsychiatric effects of high-potency cannabis, especially in young and frequent users. They also touch on public policy, addiction, and the lack of effective science-based messaging. Additionally, the episode covers other healthcare news, including the impact of supplements on cardiovascular health and the latest findings in flu season predictions.   More on Dr. Das at https://med.stanford.edu/profiles/smita-das   Topics 00:51 Introducing Dr. Smita Das 02:52 The Health Effects of Marijuana 06:48 Cannabis and Mental Health 17:06 Cannabis Use Disorder and Addiction 32:22 In the News: Latest Healthcare Stories 43:27 Mind-Body Medicine and Stress 44:23 Peanut Allergies and Early Exposure 47:56 Flu Season Warnings 49:45 Fan Mailbag: Ozempic and Blood Pressure 52:23 Thanksgiving Traditions and Football 57:42 Boston Sports Minute 01:04:46 Conclusion and Thanksgiving Wishes

Dennis interviews Dr. Paul Offit, a renowned expert in virology, immunology, and vaccination, focusing on COVID-19 vaccines and the broader topic of vaccine skepticism. They discuss the importance of vaccines, debunk recent misleading studies linking COVID vaccines to cancer, and explore the impact of general vaccine skepticism. The conversation also touches on the rise in global cancer cases due to behavioral risk factors and inaccessible treatments. The show concludes with a fun segment on the Boston sports scene and a discussion on interstellar objects possibly linked to alien technology.   Topics 01:28 Introducing Dr. Paul Offit 03:00 COVID Vaccination Recommendations 05:19 Debunking the COVID Vaccine and Cancer Myth 19:32 General Vaccine Skepticism and Science Denialism 34:33 In the News: Medicare Payments and Cancer Trends 42:20 The Problem with Modern Diets 42:31 Quest Diagnostics' Alzheimer's Blood Test 45:18 Ethical Considerations of Alzheimer's Testing 47:46 Alcohol and Dementia Risk 51:47 Unexpected Benefits of Ozempic for Psoriasis 54:38 The Costco Craze 57:06 Interstellar Object 3I/Atlas 01:01:02 Boston Sports Minute 01:10:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dennis welcomes guest Brian Kirby to delve into the controversial topic of the relationship between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and autism. Sparked by a recent press conference, the team discusses the scientific nuances, past and present research studies, the role of confounding factors, and the implications of misinterpreted data. They stress the importance of understanding context in scientific information and reject claims of a direct causal link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism. The episode aims to provide clarity and promote better-informed public discourse on the matter.   Topics 00:24 Introducing the Hot Topic: Tylenol and Autism 01:05 Brian Kirby Joins the Discussion 01:36 Media and Misinformation 03:46 Personal Stories and Reactions 06:35 Dissecting the Science 12:25 Bradford Hill Criteria Explained 16:51 Confounders in Epidemiological Studies 17:48 Sibling Pair Study in JAMA 19:53 Dose Response Relationship and Tylenol 22:09 Autism Causes: Genetic vs Environmental 25:16 Summarizing the Tylenol-Autism Debate 28:41 Conflict of Interest in Scientific Research 29:55 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Special guest Dr. Eugenio Martinez, a renowned physiatrist, joins the conversation to delve into mind-body medicine, emphasizing its impact on chronic pain and wellness. The episode explores topics such as the role of emotions in physical health, the efficacy of narcotics for pain management, and the significance of physical therapy in treating musculoskeletal issues. The team also touches on medical studies, the misuse of imaging in diagnoses, and provides insights into AI's influence on cognitive function. Additionally, the podcast covers recent sports achievements and cultural events, adding a lighter note to the comprehensive medical discussions.   Topics 00:54 Introducing Dr. Eugenio Martinez: What is a Physiatrist? 01:15 Mind-Body Medicine: The Connection Between Emotions and Pain 02:31 In the News: Respiratory Disease Season Outlook 03:45 COVID-19 Vaccination: Who Should Get It? 07:43 The Measles Tragedy: Importance of Vaccination 10:26 LSD for Anxiety: A Controversial Study 15:09 Artificial Sweeteners and Brain Aging 19:34 GLP-1 Agonists: A Breakthrough in Cancer Risk Reduction 21:20 Diabetes: The Hidden Epidemic 23:27 Guest Segment: Dr. Eugenio Martinez on Mind-Body Medicine 31:17 Understanding the Resilience of the Lumbar Spine 31:56 Personal Journey with Back Pain 32:31 Discovering Dr. Sarno's Healing Back Pain 34:22 Applying Mind-Body Medicine to Patients 34:35 The Controversy of Fibromyalgia 39:58 The Role of Secondary Gain in Chronic Pain 41:37 Challenges in Treating Chronic Pain 48:04 The Debate on Narcotics for Chronic Pain 54:54 The Impact of Over-Imaging in Back Pain Diagnosis 58:43 The Art of Surgery: Balancing Precision and Creativity 59:12 The Evolution and Efficacy of Spinal Fusion 01:00:50 The Development of the Spine Program at Dedham Health 01:03:42 The Importance of Physical Therapy and Biomechanics 01:05:38 Recommended Reading for Back Pain 01:07:03 Non-Medical Topics: Emmys and TV Shows 01:17:02 Boston Sports Minute: Patriots and Red Sox 01:22:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

Dennis welcomes special guest Dr. Josh Helm from Pro Performance Care in Needham. They discuss the role and benefits of chiropractors, particularly in treating chronic back and neck pain, and delve into Dr. Helm' specialty in concussion rehab and neuro rehab. They also cover hot-button issues such as the impact of metabolic health on inflammation and the relationship between concussions and conditions like POTS. The episode wraps up with discussions on updated hypertension guidelines, the impact of mRNA vaccines, and Blue Cross Blue Shield's prepayment claims edits. In addition, the hosts touch on some light-hearted topics like the recent deaths of 80's icons, the new Tom Brady statue, and the latest updates in Boston sports, including the Red Sox and Patriots.   Topics   01:12 Meet Dr. Josh Helm: Chiropractor Extraordinaire 01:24 Understanding Chiropractic Care 03:01 The Science Behind Chiropractic Adjustments 09:12 Chronic Pain: Biomechanics and Psychological Factors 12:13 Inflammation and Metabolic Health 15:59 Neuro Rehab and Concussion Recovery 24:10 Viewer Question: POTS and Concussion Recovery 34:46 New Guidelines for Hypertension Treatment 40:05 RFK and mRNA Vaccines 41:40 Blue Cross Blue Shield Chart Audits 44:58 Mounjaro: A Game-Changer for Diabetes 47:11 Flesh-Eating Bacteria at Cape Cod Beach 49:55 Non-Medical Topic of the Week: 80s Celebrity Deaths 58:27 Boston Sports Minute 01:05:59 Conclusion and Social Media Call to Action

Dennis welcomes Dr. Stephen Rotman, a gastroenterologist from Beth Israel Needham. Dr. Rotman shares insights on his practice, the importance of colonoscopies, and the rising issue of fatty liver disease. The episode also delves into the problematic trends of increased GI cancers in younger populations and the role of nutrition in these conditions. Discussions extend to current healthcare policies and their impact, as well as the viral sensation of the Coldplay concert reaction. The episode wraps up with a lively discussion on Boston sports.   Topics 00:40 Introducing Dr. Stephen Rotman 01:08 The Importance of Accurate Health Information 01:32 Hot Topics in Gastroenterology 02:27 Dr. Rotman's Medical Journey 05:57 The Role of Colonoscopy in Preventative Health 07:39 Challenges and Alternatives to Colonoscopy 18:31 The Human Side of Medical Practice 20:42 Rising Rates of GI Cancers in Younger People 21:09 The Impact of Nutrition on Health 22:33 Understanding Fatty Liver Disease 25:06 The Role of GLP-1 Medications 28:20 Managing Fatty Liver Disease 32:47 Closing Thoughts and Community Questions 33:40 Introduction and Setup 33:45 In the News: Turmeric Overdose 36:35 Probiotics and Supplements 37:47 Alcohol Consumption Guidelines 42:12 Trump's Health and Venous Insufficiency 43:48 Impact of New Healthcare Legislation 50:19 Non-Medical Topic: Coldplay Concert Reaction

The guest is Dr. Jonathan Croopnick, a hematologist and oncologist. He talks about cancer treatment advancements, the effectiveness of complete blood counts in routine exams, the impact of vegetarian diets on blood health, and the significance of AI in medicine. Dr. Croopnick shares updates on his practice and delves into the latest in personalized medicine and cancer therapies. The show also covers topical news items, including RFK Jr.'s controversial dismissal of a government vaccine advisory committee, the benefits of moderate exercise for pre-diabetes, new advancements in HIV treatment, and the startling cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use. The episode wraps up with a spirited discussion about the Karen Reid trial and the current state of Boston sports.   Topics 02:02 Dr. Jonathan Croopnick’s Background 03:13 Challenges in the Medical Network 04:53 The Role of CBC in Annual Physicals 09:28 Impact of Vegetarian Diets on Blood Function 12:22 Advancements in Cancer Treatment 18:25 The Future of Cancer Treatment 28:33 Personal Experiences and Reflections 32:08 RFK Jr. and Vaccine Skepticism 37:07 Reversing Pre-Diabetes with Exercise 37:41 Ozempic and Lifestyle Changes 39:17 HIV Protection: New Gilead Drug 39:30 The Evolution of HIV Treatment 42:30 Health Consequences of Cannabis Use 48:49 Non-Medical Topic of the Week: Disney Cruise Incident 53:21 Karen Reed Trial Discussion 59:42 Boston Sports Minute 01:03:05 Conclusion and Call to Action

Dennis covers a variety of medical topics, including sleep apnea, allergies, and the impact of ultra-processed foods on health. The episode features an interview with Dr. Pratik Pradhan (https://www.entspecialists.com/team/dr.-pratik-pradhan), an ENT specialist, who elaborates on the importance of diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, provides insights into different treatment options, and discusses the significance of timely medical intervention for conditions such as allergies and hearing loss. The podcast also touches upon recent news in medical research, including the approval of an Alzheimer's blood test and the broader implications of overmedicalization. Additionally, the hosts delve into a clinical case involving a patient with dysphagia which underscores the necessity of prompt specialist referrals.   00:00 Introduction and Host Banter 00:33 Weather Talk and Episode Teaser 01:42 Insurance Coverage Changes for Ozempic 04:07 FDA Approves Alzheimer's Blood Test 08:25 RFK's Make America Healthy Again Report 11:06 Processed Foods and Health Risks 21:23 Social Media and Mental Health 25:27 Guest Introduction: Dr. Pratik Pradhan 26:42 Building Professional Relationships in Medicine 27:39 Challenges of Physician Networking 29:07 Importance of Specialist Referrals 30:03 Access to Medical Care in Massachusetts 31:22 Relocating the Medical Practice 33:58 The Decline of Norwood Hospital 35:02 Understanding Sleep Apnea 42:03 Diagnosing Sleep Apnea 43:49 Treating Sleep Apnea 51:49 Allergy Season and When to Seek Medical Care 54:28 Hearing Loss and When to Get Tested 56:27 Clinical Case of the Week: Dysphagia 01:02:45 Non-Medical Topic: Sports Talk

The guest is Deb Schoenthaler, the Executive Director of Physician Performance LLC. They discuss the intricacies of healthcare systems, physician performance, and the ever-evolving landscape of primary care. Key topics include the financial challenges of primary care practices, the critical role of telehealth, the integration of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, and the future of independent medical practices. Additionally, they address advocacy for policies benefiting healthcare providers. The episode is rounded out with in-depth discussions on current news in medicine, including the implications of antidepressant use, the Mediterranean diet, and innovations in pain management.   Topics 00:52 Introducing the Guest: Deb Schoenthaler 02:04 Career Background 04:01 Challenges in Primary Care and Accessibility 04:43 Understanding Physician Performance LLC 08:21 Telehealth: Benefits and Challenges 17:08 The Role of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants 23:35 Supporting Independent Medical Practices 30:28 Future Challenges in Healthcare 36:38 In the News: Weight Loss Drugs and Antidepressants 42:29 Antidepressants and Cardiac Risks 46:16 Concierge Medical Care and Legal Risks 52:15 Lifestyle Factors and Dementia Risk 56:00 CPR: Timing Over Training 58:28 Mediterranean Diet: Health Benefits 01:04:39 New Non-Opioid Pain Treatment 01:09:58 NFL Draft Predictions 01:12:13 Conclusion and Social Media

The guest is Robert Coughlin, former CEO of the Mass Biotech Council, joins to shed light on the importance of NIH funding for medical research and the impact of innovative drugs like GLP-1 on the healthcare system. They delve into the challenges of drug pricing, the need for ongoing innovation, and the ethical considerations in healthcare delivery. The episode concludes with an engaging discussion on the famous Gardner Museum art heist and a clinical case highlighting the complexities of diagnostic imaging.    Topics 00:36 Feedback and Upcoming Topics 01:55 Winter Health and Flu Season 06:04 Vaccine Skepticism and Measles Outbreak 11:50 Weight Loss Drugs and Health Insurance 20:51 NIH Funding Cuts and Biotech Industry 22:26 Interview with Robert Coughlin 38:03 The Impact of Innovative Cancer Treatments 38:50 The Evolution of Medical Therapies 43:04 Challenges in Delivering Advanced Therapies 46:36 Cystic Fibrosis: A Personal Crusade 55:09 The Gardner Museum Heist: Unsolved Mystery 01:04:18 Incidental Findings in Medical Imaging 01:09:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Dennis and producer David Yas  explore the alarming connection between sleep apnea and brain damage, the politically charged origin of COVID-19, and a troubling murder case involving a UnitedHealthcare executive. Special guest cardiologist Dr. Charles Dow discusses exercise benefits, heart disease risk factors, and the transformative influence of drugs like Ozempic on cardiovascular health and diabetes management. The episode wraps up with a festive debate on favorite Christmas movies and songs, perfectly capturing the essence of the holiday spirit.   Topics   01:24 In the News: Sleep Apnea Study 06:14 In the News: COVID-19 Lab Leak Theory 11:54 In the News: UnitedHealthcare CEO Incident 15:26 In the News: Mass General Brigham Financials 22:00 Drug Rep Pitch of the Week: Briztree Inhaler 27:00 Interview with Dr. Charles Dow: Fitness and Cardiology 31:58 The Importance of Cardiovascular Exercise 34:10 Real-Life Case Studies in Heart Health 35:21 Understanding Risk Factors for Heart Disease 37:56 The Role of Cholesterol in Heart Disease 44:51 The Ozempic Revolution in Diabetes and Heart Health 54:35 The Impact of Modern Lifestyle on Health 01:00:32 Concluding Thoughts and Holiday Wishes

In the first episode of the Modern Medicine Podcast, host Dr. Dennis Teehan is joined by Dave Yas of the Boston Podcast Network. They aim to shed light on the complexities of navigating the medical world in 2024. Dennis discusses the evolving landscape of healthcare, the impact of policy and science on medical practices, and introduces the show's different segments, including 'In the News' and 'Drug Rep Pitch of the Week.' The episode features a special guest, Dr. Sal Napoli, a neurologist from Foxborough, who discusses a promising clinical trial for an Alzheimer's treatment. Other topics covered include the unionization of primary care doctors at Mass General Brigham, Medicare and Medicaid's coverage of obesity drugs, and the closure impacts of Steward hospitals. The show wraps up with a personal Thanksgiving discussion, highlighting what the hosts are most and least looking forward to during the holiday. Topics 00:00 Introduction to the Modern Medicine Podcast 00:55 Navigating the Medical Universe 03:17 Upcoming Segments and Guest Introduction 05:56 In-Depth Discussion on Alzheimer's Disease 06:49 Exciting Clinical Trials and New Treatments 20:07 Advice for Families and Lifestyle Tips 22:36 In the News: Unionizing Doctors 27:17 Obesity Drugs and Modern Medicine 28:29 The Benefits and Potential of New Diabetes Medications 29:03 Challenges and Controversies in Obesity Treatment 32:19 Impact of Local Hospital Closures on Community Healthcare 34:59 RFK Jr.'s Controversial Nomination for Health Secretary 39:40 Introducing Nexlital and Nexlizet: New Cholesterol Treatments 44:07 Thanksgiving Traditions and Black Friday Woes

The Modern Medicine Podcast with Dr Dennis Teehan aims to provide a clear, insightful perspective on contemporary healthcare issues. Dr. Teehan, a seasoned physician, brings his deep expertise and connections to the podcast, inviting specialists like cardiologists, neurologists, and endocrinologists to discuss the latest medical advancements, treatments, and hot topics.  With a focus on debunking widespread medical misinformation, Dr. Teehan emphasizes the importance of being an informed healthcare consumer. Whether it's clarifying research findings or shedding light on controversial medical practices, the show empowers listeners to make better health decisions for themselves and their loved ones.    Expect engaging conversations about trending topics like the rise of Ozempic, heart disease, dementia, and more, all while dispelling myths that have misled the public. Dr. Teehan’s candid approach makes complex medical topics digestible, bridging the gap between healthcare professionals and everyday people. His thoughtful discussions are designed to inspire listeners to take control of their healthcare journey with knowledge and confidence. Follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you find your pods. Enjoy the show!