The Present Illness
Alyssa Burgart & Arghavan Salles
Society’s running a fever, and two sharp-witted physicians are on the case. Surgeon-scientist Arghavan Salles dives into social media’s wildest trends, while anesthesiologist-bioethicist Alyssa Burgart follows news and legal cases for their ethical twists. Together, they examine the cultural, political, and public health symptoms of our time with scalpel-sharp analysis, unflinching questions, and enough humor to keep us all going.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 27, 2025 • 54min
Tylenol, Autism & the Clown Car of Public Health
The hosts tackle the contentious link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism, emphasizing the need for scientific rigor over sensational claims. They explore the risks of discouraging acetaminophen for expectant mothers, warning about the potential consequences. The conversation delves into the impact of misinformation in public health, including the influence of wellness influencers and fear-based messaging. With a humorous touch, they connect historical eugenics rhetoric to contemporary discussions around disability, urging for better access to care and research funding.
