Ask Doctor Dawn

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-27-2025: Dr. Dawn comments on how inappropriate conclusions of cause and effect lead to too many drugs being prescribed and incorrect claims of drug allergies. Dr. Dawn examines the risks of ibuprofen overuse, discussing how NSAIDs can damage the gut lining, affect kidney function, and lead to various health complications when used long-term. She provides insight into Medicare reimbursement rates for common lab tests, explaining the significant price disparities between Medicare payments and commercial rates. The show explores the current H5N1 bird flu situation affecting egg and dairy production, discussing viral mutations and the promising development of a universal flu vaccine. Dr. Dawn explores the remarkable fact that among placental mammals, only humans, certain bats, elephant shrews, and one species of spiny mouse experience menstruation, leading to challenges in research models. She recounts the fascinating history of menstruation research, from 1940s scientists chasing elephant shrews in South Africa to shipping bats in takeout containers for laboratory studies. The show details modern breakthroughs in menstruation research through organoids and organs-on-chips technology, explaining how these tools are revolutionizing our understanding of women's health. Dr. Dawn addresses perimenopause and hormone replacement therapy, discussing historical misconceptions and current treatment perspectives. The show concludes with research on artemisia, explaining how this traditional herb shows promise in treating polycystic ovary syndrome through its effects on hormone regulation.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-20-2025: Dr. Dawn responds to an email about osteoporosis treatment options, explaining the risk assessment for fractures, discussing injectable alternatives to Fosamax for patients with swallowing difficulties, and analyzing vibration plate therapy's effectiveness for osteoporosis. The show explores scientific curiosities including genetically modified "woolly mammoth mice" created using CRISPR technology, showing how gene editing advances could potentially resurrect extinct species and preserve the endangered. Dr. Dawn shares research revealing that tea leaves can effectively remove heavy metals from water, with both black and green tea varieties working equally well. The show discusses how strength training provides the most significant benefits for insomnia sufferers, outperforming other exercise types by creating the micro-damage necessary to trigger deep, restorative sleep. Dr. Dawn describes fascinating developments in biohybrid robotics, where researchers created a functional hand using lab-grown human muscle tissue capable of gripping objects and making scissor gestures. Now they'll work on "rock" and "paper". A caller seeks clarification about the tea purification process, with Dr. Dawn explaining that discarding used tea bags (rather than composting them) prevents reintroducing concentrated heavy metals into the environment. She examines Alpha-gal syndrome, a meat allergy triggered by Lone Star tick bites that can cause reactions to mammalian products including red meat, gelatin, keratin, and lanolin. The show addresses environmental concerns about "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in sewage sludge fertilizers, potential risks to farmworkers and highlighting studies linking drinking water contamination to increased childhood cancer rates in affected areas. Dr. Dawn explores the expanding benefits of GLP-1 drugs beyond weight loss, including reduced risks for liver failure, cardiac arrest, addiction disorders, and even Alzheimer's, while noting potential side effects. She discusses how GLP-1 medications fundamentally change food preferences and behaviors, citing cases where users shift spending from restaurants to exercise equipment and from processed foods to fruits and vegetables. A caller seeking advice on building muscle mass at age 70 receives recommendations about proper protein intake, hydration needs with kidney disease, and the importance of resistance training over general activity.

Broadcast on KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-13-2025: Dr. Dawn debunks the common misconception about extra virgin olive oil's smoke point indicating oxidation damage, citing new research showing it remains stable and safe even at high cooking temperatures due to its high flavenoid and antioxidant content. She discusses critical timing factors for surgical procedures, sharing research that reveals a "weekend effect" with 9-12% higher mortality rates for surgeries performed on Fridays compared to early-week procedures. The show examines promising AI technology that can detect depression and other mental health conditions through voice patterns alone, potentially improving diagnosis in diverse populations regardless of language barriers. A caller asks about measles vaccines and Robert Kennedy Jr.'s controversial claims, with Dr. Dawn explaining different vaccine types and clarifying that while live virus vaccines can technically cause disease in immunocompromised individuals, this is extremely rare and preventable. Dr. Dawn explores the landmark "Nun Study" tracking 678 nuns over 30 years, highlighting discoveries about cognitive resilience including how early-life linguistic abilities correlate with reduced dementia risk and how some individuals remain mentally sharp despite having Alzheimer's brain pathology. The show discusses promising research on transcranial direct current stimulation for Alzheimer's patients, showing how electrical stimulation of specific brain regions improved verbal learning and word production abilities for up to eight weeks. Dr. Dawn examines psychological factors associated with dementia risk, noting that while negative thinking patterns correlate with cognitive decline, determining causality remains challenging. She shares a breakthrough in ALS research identifying neurofilament light chain proteins as a potential biomarker that correctly identified people with ALS more than 80% of the time and predicted survival rates. The show concludes with fascinating microbiome research on bile acids, explaining how gut bacteria transform liver-produced bile and how certain microbial bile acids can either promote or inhibit inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer development.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 3-06-2025: Dr. Dawn addresses an email about coronary artery blockage, explaining that a 70% calcified plaque in the LAD vessel might be better managed with medication than stenting, and recommending statin therapy to prevent further plaque formation. A live caller with a history of staph aureus infection describes unusual fingernail changes and fungal infection following prolonged antibiotic treatment, with Dr. Dawn suggesting an in-person examination for proper diagnosis. The show highlights the remarkable story of James Harrison, an Australian blood donor whose special anti-D antibodies saved 2.4 million babies from hemolytic disease, donating blood 1,173 times over his lifetime. Dr. Dawn provides practical advice for reducing microplastic consumption, recommending glass containers over plastic, avoiding bottled water, and warning about unexpected sources like Himalayan salt, scented wax melts, and plastic tea bags. She evaluates cold water plunge therapy for weight loss, citing research showing only temporary benefits for inflammation reduction and stress relief, but potential dangers for people with heart conditions. The show addresses concerning developments with bird flu (H5N1), highlighting the discovery of the virus in rats and questioning why rapid testing kits aren't being developed and distributed proactively. Dr. Dawn criticizes FDA food safety regulation, particularly the "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) pathway that allows manufacturers to self-determine ingredient safety without proper vetting. She discusses fascinating research on the NOVA1 gene, which changed dramatically 250,000-500,000 years ago and appears linked to complex vocalizations and potentially human language development. The show recommends "solo freedom dancing" as an effective exercise option, while warning that noise-canceling headphones may impair the brain's ability to process complex sounds, leading to auditory processing disorders. Dr. Dawn explores a breakthrough in synthetic microbiome therapy that shows promise in combating C. difficile infections by identifying specific bacterial strains that suppress the harmful bacteria. She shares news about a promising oral norovirus vaccine tablet that's shown effectiveness in clinical trials for both younger and older adults, potentially addressing a disease that causes 70,000 hospitalizations annually. The show concludes with clarification about vitamin A and measles, noting that while it can help prevent complications in malnourished children, it doesn't prevent infection and can be dangerous at high doses, especially for pregnant women.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 2-27-2025: Dr. Dawn addresses the alarming news of the first US measles fatality in almost 20 years, explaining how the disease led to the death of a healthy grade school child in Texas amid an outbreak of 124 cases, with 80% affecting unvaccinated children. She warns about subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a delayed but fatal complication of measles infection that occurs in approximately 1 in 600 babies who contract measles before vaccination. The show highlights a community health survey about the Moss Landing battery fire, encouraging listeners to participate and share any symptoms experienced after the January incident. Responding to an email from Philadelphia, Dr. Dawn discusses adaptogens in mushroom coffee, recommending rotating different mushroom varieties to prevent tachyphylaxis, where the body becomes unreactive to the beneficial compounds. A caller asks about German measles (rubella) and its relation to regular measles (rubeola), with Dr. Dawn explaining they are completely different viruses offering no cross-immunity. Dr. Dawn explores fascinating research on tardigrades (water bears), explaining how scientists extracted their damage suppressor protein to protect mice from radiation, potentially benefiting cancer patients and space exploration. A caller asks about health impacts of indoor gas heating and cooking, with Dr. Dawn confirming that gas appliances produce harmful nanoparticles but suggesting heat pumps as a cleaner alternative. She discusses nature-inspired medical adhesives derived from mussels and mucus that work in wet environments, offering potential solutions for surgical glues, implant bonding, and infection prevention. The show examines innovative stool analysis techniques that can accurately detect dietary patterns from DNA in feces, potentially transforming nutrition science by eliminating unreliable food diaries. Dr. Dawn addresses an email about polyphenols in olive oil, highlighting their anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, and responds to Amy's email about a hand lump, suggesting that it is most likely a volar retinacular cyst. She concludes by exploring DNA origami technology, where scientists create microscopic structures that can bind to specific molecules, potentially revolutionizing medical testing through highly sensitive biosensors.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 2-06-2025: A live guest in the studio introduces Mom's Meals (momsmeals.com,) a program providing free meal delivery services for qualifying Medicare Advantage and Medi-Cal recipients with various dietary needs. During a lengthy live call, Dr. Dawn provides comprehensive guidance for a patient experiencing recurring COVID infections, discussing treatment options, long-haul symptoms, and recovery strategies. She announces FDA approval of Suzetrigine (Journavx), a novel non-opiate pain medication that works by blocking pain signals in the spinal cord, potentially marking a significant advancement in pain management. Responding to an email, Dr. Dawn provides detailed advice for treating a chronically splitting fingernail, recommending silk wrap treatment as a long-term solution. The show examines research showing omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and exercise can slow biological aging, with participants aging 4 months slower over a 3-year study period. Dr. Dawn discusses concerning new research showing microplastics accumulating in mouse brains, kidneys and liver. She explores the emergence of valley fever (coccidiomycosis) as a climate change-related health threat, explaining how drones and genetic analysis are helping track its spread in California where 97% of cases originate The show explores promising research on oyster hemolymph proteins that may help combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A live caller follows up with a question about microplastic exposure from CPAP machines, with Dr. Dawn recommending inline bacterial paper-based filters to help capture microplastics and suggesting consultation with doctors about adjusting pressure settings to accommodate the filters.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 1-30-2025: Dr. Dawn explores new research on testosterone replacement therapy's cardiovascular safety, explaining benefits for muscle mass maintenance and diabetes prevention in aging men. She addresses caller concerns about probiotics during antibiotic treatment, explaining how dead bacteria can still provide beneficial effects and help prevent complications. The show examines the current challenges facing 23andMe, including data breaches and financial difficulties, with recommendations for users to download and delete their data. Dr. Dawn discusses breakthrough success in pig kidney transplantation, highlighting a patient's remarkable two-month milestone with normal kidney function. She provides a comprehensive overview of scientifically-proven strategies to reduce dementia risk, including diet, exercise, vaccination, and social engagement The show addresses an email question about migraine treatments, discussing medication options including parthenolide and topiramate as alternatives to expensive newer drugs. Dr. Dawn explains the benefits of honey as a sugar substitute, noting that while raw honey offers some nutritional advantages over processed sugar, it still affects blood sugar similarly. She helps a caller investigate mysterious recurring purple discoloration on her nose tip, suggesting possible vascular causes and recommending documentation of episodes. Dr. Dawn explains the use of colloidal silver nasal spray for viral protection, discussing its effectiveness despite limited clinical trials.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 1-23-2025: Dr. Dawn announces a recall of Mylan's generic levothyroxine due to quality testing failures, affecting lots expiring in 2025 that don't meet FDA's 5% threshold for stated content. She provides comprehensive guidance on health impacts from the Moss Landing California battery fire, discussing cancer risks, heavy metal exposure, and detoxification methods including testing options and protective measures. The show explores promising research on bisphosphonate treatment for osteoporosis prevention, discussing a study showing one or two doses of Reclast could prevent fractures in post-menopausal women with normal bone density. Dr. Dawn examines innovative research on transplanting foot sole cells to improve prosthetic comfort for amputees, explaining how fibroblast transplantation could create more durable skin surfaces. She discusses alternative treatments for gallstones, particularly focusing on using ursodiol combined with lithotripsy as a potential surgery alternative for high-risk patients. The show addresses listener questions about knee injections for osteoarthritis, explaining cortisone's benefits and discussing vitamin supplementation including vitamins D3 and K2 for bone health. Dr. Dawn provides detailed information to a caller about ischial bursitis treatment, discussing injection techniques and cushioning options for managing tailbone area pain.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 1-16-2025: Dr. Dawn provides a comprehensive analysis of the H5N1 bird flu situation, explaining viral mutations, transmission patterns, and potential risks in both agricultural and human populations. She examines the concerning implications of research showing rapid viral mutations after human transmission and discusses available antiviral treatments. The show addresses concerns about mirror cell research, warning about potential dangers of creating mirror-image microbes that could be unrecognizable to immune systems. She discusses the alarming rise in hypothermia deaths across America, noting how sudden temperature fluctuations and increasing homelessness contribute to doubled mortality rates since 1999. Dr. Dawn provides detailed analysis of an email from a person post-gastric bypass with dangerous blood sugar spikes, outlining potential causes and suggesting comprehensive testing approaches. A caller presents case of dual ureter injury during C-section surgery, Dr. Dawn explores treatment options and complications. She then responds to another caller with recurring toenail fungus, discussing various approaches from traditional medications to alternative remedies. She shares fascinating insights from the book "How to Win Friends and Influence Fungi," exploring parasites that control host behavior, from shrimp-manipulating worms to fungi that turn insects into spore-dispersing zombies. <

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 1-09-2025: Dr. Dawn celebrates major medical breakthroughs of 2024, highlighting the successful pig-to-human kidney transplant using CRISPR technology and a revolutionary HIV prevention injection. She discusses research showing the cognitive benefits of handwriting versus typing, explaining how writing activates more complex brain patterns in memory formation. The show explores recent health findings about the benefits of human touch, internet use for seniors' mental health, and promising LSD research for depression treatment. Dr. Dawn provides detailed analysis of dietary concerns, examining common vitamin and mineral deficiencies in the American population and their health implications. She examines the growing problem of kidney stones in children, linking it to increased sodium consumption and environmental factors like urban heat islands. The show concludes with an explanation of "fartlek" training, a Swedish exercise method combining interval training with spontaneous pace changes for improved cardiovascular health.