Why Pursue a PhD to Improve Trial Rigor?

In this in-depth conversation, Dr. Brad Stanfield sits down with Dr Matt Kaeberlein to discuss his journey from a primary care physician in New Zealand to a leading voice in the evidence-based longevity space. We cover the launch and philosophy behind his YouTube channel, the challenges and exciting results of his self-funded rapamycin clinical trial, and his critical perspective on supplements, medical guidelines, and the future of aging research.

Dr. Stanfield provides a unique clinician's viewpoint on hot topics like GLP-1 agonists (Ozempic), SGLT2 inhibitors, vitamin D testing, and the pitfalls of biological age clocks. We also dive into a spirited debate on the role of medical societies, the balance between risk and benefit in prescribing medications, and why he believes the field of longevity is still in its early stages of discovery.

Key Topics & Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

00:52 - Brad's Background

02:47 - Starting the YouTube Channel & Philosophy on Science Communication

07:39 - The Rigor of Clinical Data vs. Misinformation

10:14 - Admitting Mistakes in Public (Resveratrol, Metformin)

14:40 - Funding and Designing the Rapamycin Clinical Trial

19:25 - Rapamycin Trial Results Submitted & Plans for a PhD

23:28 - Preventative Care: New Zealand vs. US Healthcare Systems

27:59 - The Vitamin D Debate: To Test or Not to Test?

35:18 - Trust in Medical Guidelines & The Hormone Replacement Therapy Controversy

43:42 - The Problem with Biological Age Clocks

46:22 - Patient-Centered Care: Inform vs. Decide in Medicine

49:49 - How to Judge the Quality of a Clinical Trial (CONSORT)

53:44 - Risk vs. Benefit: When Should We Prescribe Preventative Drugs?

58:05 - GLP-1 Agonists (Ozempic) and SGLT2 Inhibitors in Practice

01:02:00 - Brad's Personal Use of an SGLT2 Inhibitor

01:05:38 - The State of Longevity Research: How Much Do We Really Know?

01:08:34 - Closing Remarks

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on the Optispan podcast is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not meant to be, nor should it be construed as, personalized medical advice. No doctor-patient relationship is established by your use of this channel. The information and materials presented are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We strongly advise that you consult with a licensed healthcare professional for all matters concerning your health, especially before undertaking any changes based on content provided by this channel. The hosts and guests on this channel are not liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages or adverse effects that may arise from the application of the information discussed. Medical knowledge is constantly evolving; therefore, the information provided should be verified against current medical standards and practices.

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X: https://x.com/BradStanfieldMD

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