Health Check

Agnes Arnold Forster, historian and author of "Nostalgia: A History of a Dangerous Emotion," dives into the complex nature of nostalgia—once feared as a disease, now celebrated for its emotional depth. She discusses how nostalgia shapes our identities and fosters connections, even influencing political sentiments. Joined by expert psychologists, they unveil nostalgia's healing powers, from enhancing relationships to aiding those with dementia. Together, they explore how reflecting on the past can bring comfort and joy in the present.

Matt Fox, a Professor of Global Health at Boston University, Andrew Green, a global health journalist, and Dr. Wilfried Mutumbo-Kalungi, head of clinical operations at the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, discuss the significant elimination of sleeping sickness in Guinea. They dive into the strategies that made this progress possible, like mass screening and vector control. The conversation also sheds light on the implications of recent shifts in US foreign aid policies on vital global health initiatives and highlights the ongoing challenges in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Graham Easton, a Professor of Clinical Communication Skills at Queen Mary University, delves into the implications of the U.S. government's stop-work order on foreign aid projects. He discusses the potential setbacks for HIV treatment and malaria interventions. Andrew Green, a global health journalist, highlights the historical context of U.S. foreign aid and its critical role in global health initiatives. Patty Skooster, a researcher specializing in reproductive health law, explains the global gag rule's effects on health funding and free speech concerns, showcasing its dire implications on reproductive services.

Smita Mundasad, a BBC health reporter known for her insights on global health issues, joins the discussion. The conversation kicks off with the potential fallout of the U.S. exiting the World Health Organization and its impact on global health initiatives. They dive into Meta's shift from independent fact-checking to community notes, raising concerns about health misinformation. The podcast also highlights a new rapid test for Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic fever and explores the mental health challenges astronauts may face during long-term space missions.

In this discussion, Monica Lackenpohl, a Professor of Child Health at University College London, dives into the lingering health effects of wildfires, particularly in Los Angeles. She sheds light on the emotional and physical toll on communities post-evacuation, including mental health impacts and exposure to hazardous materials. Lackenpohl also critiques the traditional BMI approach to obesity, advocating for a personalized method. Additionally, she touches on the rising trend of natural fertility methods, highlighting shifts in women’s reproductive health choices.

James Gallagher, a BBC health and science correspondent, brings his insights on the rising cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). He aims to demystify HMPV, clarifying its historical context and seasonal nature amidst media sensationalism. The discussion also addresses the challenges elite female athletes face regarding fertility, focusing on intense training's impact on reproductive health. Furthermore, insights into Ukrainian veterans building drones for rehabilitation highlight resilience in the face of adversity. The conversation wraps up with predictions for global health by 2025.

Claudia Hammond is in Malawi exploring the concept of One Health, where the health of humans, animals and the environment are all linked. Today we’re visiting a makeshift roadside operating theatre for dogs in the village of Kauma, just outside of Lilongwe. During the ‘Spay Day’, vets from the Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals neuter local dogs for free, in an attempt to protect both dogs, and people, from rabies. We find out how this work feeds into the bigger picture of One Health in Malawi, and Claudia has a go at being a veterinary assistant… Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston

Claudia Hammond is in Malawi exploring a movement known as “One Health”: an approach that calls for collaboration between the fields of human, animal, and environmental health, for the benefit of all. And how can this help to prevent disease when people and animals live in close proximity? We hear how vets and researchers across Malawi are tackling diseases such as rabies, anthrax, and sleeping sickness – and how the sharing of expertise that One Health brings is crucial in their efforts. Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Sophie Ormiston

Andrew Green, a global health journalist, joins Claudia Hammond to review health trends and predictions for 2024. They unveil unexpected stories that shaped the year and discuss game-changing innovations like malaria vaccines and CAR-XT for schizophrenia. The pair also tackle the rise of MPOX and the implications of climate change on health. Additionally, they humorously explore the Ig Nobel Prizes and the challenges of human reproduction on Mars, blending profound insights with lighthearted trivia.

Researchers have trailed a revolutionary malaria vaccine that uses the entire malaria parasite and is delivered via the bite of a mosquito, offering a novel way to boost immunity. The next step involves developing an injectable version for broader use. Also on the program: a mystery illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Kwango Province; doctors in Brazil raise concerns over dengue spreading through contaminated blood transfusions; and an innovative temporary tattoo that can measure brain activity through hair.Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Katie Tomsett and Jack Lee