Experts Laura Piddock and Margaret McCartney discuss the ongoing challenges of antibiotic resistance. Marine biologist Helen Scales predicts future ocean changes. Cosmologist Andrew Pontzen talks about black holes. Food scientist Stuart Farrimond explains the EU ban on smoky flavored crisps.

Margaret McCartney, a resident GP and evidence-based medicine expert, joins John Tregoning, a vaccine immunology professor, and Eleanor Riley, an immunology and infectious disease professor. They discuss the reality behind popular immune-boosting trends, from cold water swimming to supplements.

Dr. Margaret McCartney, a Glasgow-based general practitioner and PhD holder, passionately advocates for evidence-based medicine while challenging the efficacy of disease screening. In this discussion, she critiques the misconceptions surrounding early medical testing and reveals how conflicts of interest can skew healthcare recommendations. McCartney underscores the importance of rigorous evaluation in medical practices, calling for better regulation and transparency in the UK healthcare system. Plus, her love for cycling adds a fun twist to her serious insights!

Margaret McCartney, an author scrutinizing early cancer detection tests, and Deborah Cohen, who examines health test decision-making, interrogate the controversial Galleri Test's effectiveness. They explore political influences in healthcare, emphasizing the need for rigorous evaluation. Imran Ahmed from Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Trust unveils an innovative HIT model aimed at tackling the NHS waiting list crisis, highlighting how prioritizing surgical procedures can optimize efficiency and improve staff morale.

In a heartfelt tribute to Akira Endo, the inventor of statins, guests discuss his choice to prioritize diet and exercise over medication in his later years. Margaret McCartney and Naveed Sattar debate the effectiveness of lifestyle changes in lowering cholesterol and their impact on cardiovascular health. Dermatologist Dr. Alexandra Banner shares insights on treating sunburn and reveals surprising home remedies. The discussion also touches on the controversial topic of snus and its potential to enhance athletic performance.