America Dissected

This week Abdul is joined by physician and writer Dr. Dhruv Khullar, who is subbing in for Dr. Katelyn Jetelina this week. Abdul and Dhruv discuss a rash of alarming news out of HHS, including its uneven measles response, more cancelled meetings, a policy change to end public comment, and the re-evaluation of a key bird flu vaccine contract. They also break down the Republican budget plan and explain why its proposed cuts would likely gut Medicaid.Then Abdul sits down with Lisa Sherman Luna, executive director of the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, about the impact of ICE raids on the immigrant community.Check out our shop at store.americadissected.com for our new America Dissected merch – including logo shirts, hoodies and mugs. And don’t miss our “Vaccines Matter. Science Works.” t-shirts!This show would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. America Dissected invites you to check them out! This episode was brought to you by:Quince: Get free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/AD

Robert Califf, Former FDA Commissioner and current Duke University instructor, shares insights on pressing public health issues. He discusses the consequences of recent workforce cuts at the FDA, impacting medical device approvals and public safety. Califf also highlights the urgent vaccine efforts needed amidst the ongoing measles outbreak in Texas and the risks posed by misinformation in public health policy. The conversation emphasizes the critical need for investment in health agencies to tackle future challenges effectively.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Dhruv Khullar, a physician and New Yorker writer, dives into the health impacts of ultra-processed foods, linking their consumption to rising obesity rates. He highlights the manipulative marketing tactics of the food industry and emphasizes the importance of home-cooked meals and educational initiatives for healthier choices. The conversation also touches on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial health policies, including his scrutiny of pediatric vaccines and mental health medications, provoking thoughts on transparency in public health.

Dr. Joseph Wright, a leading pediatric emergency physician and health equity advocate, joins forces with Dr. Helen Burstin, CEO of the Council of Medical Specialty Societies. Together, they tackle the pervasive issue of race-based clinical algorithms and their detrimental impact on healthcare outcomes. Their conversation dives deep into historical biases, the misdiagnosis of children, and the urgent need for inclusive data practices in medicine. With a call for equity in healthcare, they challenge outdated views and advocate for a more nuanced understanding of health determinants.

Dr. Allen Sills, a neurosurgeon and the NFL's Chief Medical Officer, shares his expertise on player safety and injury prevention in football. He discusses innovative strategies like the redesign of kickoff plays and advancements in helmet technology that are helping to reduce concussions. The conversation highlights the cultural shift towards prioritizing athlete welfare and the importance of education regarding head injuries. Sills emphasizes the ongoing efforts to enhance safety without sacrificing the excitement of the game.

Abdul and Katelyn pose questions for RFK’s Senate Confirmation hearings. Then they discuss the fallout from Trump’s sledgehammer on our government agencies, including: A freeze on most federal grants and aid, here and abroad (now rescinded) A pause on health agency communication and travel Removing all DEI programs from the federal government, including diverse clinical trials Offering all federal employees 6-months of pay to resign from their jobs Then Abdul talks to epidemiologist and author Dr. Caitlin Rivers about her new book Crisis Averted: The Hidden Science of Fighting Outbreaks. Caitlin tells us where we are in the current flu season, and how public health professionals can build back trust with Americans. You can find Caitlin Rivers’ newsletter Force of Infection here.Check out our shop at store.americadissected.com for our new America Dissected merch – including logo shirts, hoodies and mugs. And don’t miss our brand new "Science Won't Be Silenced" long-sleeved t-shirts!This show would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. America Dissected invites you to check them out. This episode was brought to you by:Our Big Shot: This new podcast series explores one of the biggest achievements in human history: the worldwide effort of immunization. You can listen to “Our Big Shot” wherever you get podcasts.

Joining the discussion is Sabeel Rahman, a Cornell Law professor and Marguerite Casey Foundation Freedom Scholar, who delves into the legal protections vital for safeguarding public health institutions. They explore the implications of Trump's executive orders on public health, spotlighting the urgent need for global cooperation in health policy. Topics also include the humanitarian challenges in Gaza and a critical look at recent Biden administration actions, like Medicare drug negotiations and a preemptive pardon for Dr. Fauci.

Dora Varga, a historian specializing in historical epidemics, and Hanan Balki, a pediatric infectious disease consultant with the WHO, discuss bold visions for a disease-free world. They share fascinating insights on the impactful history of polio vaccination efforts and the essential collaboration between scientists like Salk and Sabin. The dialogue unpacks the ongoing challenges in eradicating polio, particularly in conflict zones, and emphasizes the importance of community engagement and public trust in health initiatives.

Linda Eckert, a physician and public health consultant, joins to discuss her book "Enough," focusing on the fight against HPV-related cervical cancer. The conversation highlights the importance of the HPV vaccine and the barriers people face in accessing it. They also delve into the health impacts of urban fires in LA and rising concerns about bird flu outbreaks. Additionally, the discussion uncovers the troubling links between ultra-processed foods and public health, advocating for better nutrition policies and dispelling misinformation affecting health choices.

Abdul and Katelyn take your questions after catching up on some of the most pressing health headlines over the holidays–including a new fluoride study, the first H5N1 death, and the passing of public health hero Jimmy Carter.This show would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. America Dissected invites you to check them out. This episode was brought to you by:Calm: Get 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library at calm.com/DISSECT.Our Big Shot: This new podcast series explores one of the biggest achievements in human history: the worldwide effort of immunization. You can listen to “Our Big Shot” wherever you get podcasts.