From Heart Health to Microplastics: A Journey Through Medical Updates, Scientific Breakthroughs, and Public Health Concerns

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-06-2025:

• Dr. Dawn addresses an email about coronary artery blockage, explaining that a 70% calcified plaque in the LAD vessel might be better managed with medication than stenting, and recommending statin therapy to prevent further plaque formation.
• A live caller with a history of staph aureus infection describes unusual fingernail changes and fungal infection following prolonged antibiotic treatment, with Dr. Dawn suggesting an in-person examination for proper diagnosis.
• The show highlights the remarkable story of James Harrison, an Australian blood donor whose special anti-D antibodies saved 2.4 million babies from hemolytic disease, donating blood 1,173 times over his lifetime.
• Dr. Dawn provides practical advice for reducing microplastic consumption, recommending glass containers over plastic, avoiding bottled water, and warning about unexpected sources like Himalayan salt, scented wax melts, and plastic tea bags.
• She evaluates cold water plunge therapy for weight loss, citing research showing only temporary benefits for inflammation reduction and stress relief, but potential dangers for people with heart conditions.
• The show addresses concerning developments with bird flu (H5N1), highlighting the discovery of the virus in rats and questioning why rapid testing kits aren't being developed and distributed proactively.
• Dr. Dawn criticizes FDA food safety regulation, particularly the "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) pathway that allows manufacturers to self-determine ingredient safety without proper vetting.
• She discusses fascinating research on the NOVA1 gene, which changed dramatically 250,000-500,000 years ago and appears linked to complex vocalizations and potentially human language development.
• The show recommends "solo freedom dancing" as an effective exercise option, while warning that noise-canceling headphones may impair the brain's ability to process complex sounds, leading to auditory processing disorders.
• Dr. Dawn explores a breakthrough in synthetic microbiome therapy that shows promise in combating C. difficile infections by identifying specific bacterial strains that suppress the harmful bacteria.
• She shares news about a promising oral norovirus vaccine tablet that's shown effectiveness in clinical trials for both younger and older adults, potentially addressing a disease that causes 70,000 hospitalizations annually.
• The show concludes with clarification about vitamin A and measles, noting that while it can help prevent complications in malnourished children, it doesn't prevent infection and can be dangerous at high doses, especially for pregnant women.