Decoding Women's Health with Dr. Elizabeth Poynor

Almost two-thirds of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s are women. Shifting hormones make us especially vulnerable. But what if there were ways to lower your risk? Preventive neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson believes nearly half of dementia cases can be avoided. He shares how to know if you’re at risk for Alzheimer’s and what steps to take for better long-term brain health. Links to resources mentioned in this episode: Individualized clinical management of patients at risk for Alzheimer’s dementia Structured vs Self-Guided Multidomain Lifestyle Interventions for Global Cognitive Function A 2 year multidomain intervention of diet, exercise, cognitive training, and vascular risk monitoring versus control to prevent cognitive decline in at-risk elderly people (FINGER): a randomised controlled trial Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission Clinical Application of APOE in Alzheimer's Prevention: A Precision Medicine Approach Menopause impacts human brain structure, connectivity, energy metabolism, and amyloid-beta deposition Association of Reproductive History With Brain MRI Biomarkers of Dementia Risk in Midlife Effect of Intensive vs Standard Blood Pressure Control on Probable Dementia: A Randomized Clinical Trial evoke and evoke+: design of two large-scale, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 studies evaluating efficacy, safety, and tolerability of semaglutide in early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease Sex-Driven Differences in the Effectiveness of Individualized Clinical Management of Alzheimer's Disease Risk Sex-driven modifiers of Alzheimer risk: A multimodality brain imaging study The Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases (IND) Retain Your Brain Note: In this show, we use “women” as shorthand for people with XX chromosomes. We understand sex and gender are more complex, and acknowledge the experiences we describe reach beyond that word.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Beverly Tchang, a triple board-certified endocrinologist, dives into the complexities of midlife metabolism and the role of GLP-1 weight management therapies for women. She explains why body changes can occur despite a healthy lifestyle and how obesity intersects with menopause. Tchang discusses the limitations of BMI as a measure and introduces better methods for assessing body composition. She clarifies how GLP-1s promote satiety and their expected impacts on weight loss, alongside essential lifestyle changes to support muscle health.

Dr. Staci Ann Gruber, a neuroscientist and director of the MIND program at McLean Hospital, dives deep into the therapeutic potential of cannabis. She discusses how various cannabinoids can improve sleep, mood, and treat chronic pain. Gruber explores delivery methods, effects of THC and CBD, and the endocannabinoid system. She highlights the importance of careful dosing and the unique experiences of midlife women with cannabis, all while stressing the need for better physician education on its use.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Susan Domchek joins the show to talk about the importance of knowing your genetic history, using genetic testing to understand cancer risk, and what you can do if you learn that you have BRCA gene mutation. Links to resources mentioned in this episode: Basser Center for BRCA National Society of Genetic Counselors National Comprehensive Cancer Network Note: In this show, we use “women” as shorthand for people with XX chromosomes. We understand sex and gender are more complex, and acknowledge the experiences we describe reach beyond that word.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Caroline Gurvich, an associate professor and clinical neuropsychologist at Monash University, dives into the fascinating world of brain health during midlife. She discusses how more than 60% of women experience cognitive shifts due to hormonal changes like fluctuating estradiol. Gurvich uncovers the differences between normal brain fog and serious conditions like dementia, and the significant impacts of lifestyle choices, hormone therapy, and cognitive training. Her actionable tips for brain health include prioritizing exercise and nutrition, all aimed at optimizing cognitive reserve.

On Decoding Women’s Health, Dr. Elizabeth Poynor—world-renowned gynecologic oncologist and Chair of Women’s Health at the Atria Health Institute—cuts through the noise to bring you the latest science on midlife women’s health. Whether you're in perimenopause, postmenopause, or simply looking for tools to prepare for the next chapter, take charge of your health—now and for the future—with expert guidance and practical advice to help you thrive. Decoding Women's Health begins on October 7, with episodes releasing every other Tuesday.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.