What's Up Docs?
BBC Radio 4
In this BBC Radio 4 podcast, Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken are on a mission to help us take better care of ourselves.Although they are identical twins, Chris and Xand are very different and they never stop thinking and arguing about science and health. They want to lead healthy, happy lives and as doctors, they want this for everyone. Yet they tussle over how best to get there.When it comes to looking after our own health, it can be confusing. Medicine and science produce amazing new treatments and diagnostics every day and we are bombarded with so many headlines and pieces of advice; but how are we supposed to know what's really best for us and then successfully apply it to our lives?Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken embrace this challenge; even as they marvel at the scientific breakthroughs, they grapple with the competing claims about health, wellbeing and how to live.From understanding testosterone therapies to microplastics in our diets, and the concept of 'hangriness' to the power of saying no - this podcast deals with the health stresses we all face every day, while taking on board how the decisions by corporations and governments affect all our health.Each episode, Chris and Xand are joined by an expert guest to examine the latest research, psychological insights, and data, to help listeners navigate the overwhelming amount of information and advice out there. They talk about the trials and tribulations in their own lives in their characteristically witty way - each teasing the other as they search for solutions. Xand has trouble sleeping , Chris has noisy knees, one of them has got an embarrassing itch. They have different ways of looking at things and find it really helpful to get the other one's point of view. These doctors are trying their best and encouraging listeners to do the same.Email: [email protected]
Whatsapp: 08000 665123A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4.
Whatsapp: 08000 665123A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 10, 2026 • 24min
Drs' Notes: How can we train our noses?
Katherine Whitcroft, an ENT surgeon and co-director of Sheffield’s Chemosensory Research Lab, explores the remarkable world of noses. She discusses why smell matters for mood, memory and wellbeing, how smell training works, and what nasal polyps reveal about chronic inflammation. The conversation also examines the medical and aesthetic reasons for reshaping noses.
Nov 10, 2026 • 29min
What do you need to know about your nose?
Katherine Whitcroft, an ear, nose and throat surgeon and chemosensory researcher, explores the remarkable nose. Discover why mucus matters, why noses run during tears or spicy meals, and how airflow and the nasal cycle shape smell. They also discuss allergies, polyps, infections, nosebleeds, lost smell and safe ways to treat congestion.
Nov 3, 2026 • 28min
Drs' Notes: What should you do if you get a fever after travelling?
Dr Catherine Houlihan, a clinical virologist and infectious diseases specialist at University College London Hospitals, works on rare and imported pathogens. She discusses what returning travellers should know about fever and malaria, how experts monitor threats such as Ebola and hantavirus, and why infections can sometimes appear without fever. The conversation also covers children’s fevers, febrile seizures and everyday infection control.
Nov 3, 2026 • 29min
How should you treat a fever?
Dr Catherine Houlihan, a consultant in clinical virology and infectious diseases at University College London Hospitals, explores what fever really means. Why does the body raise its thermostat, and how can fever fight infection? Learn how fever differs from overheating, when paracetamol or ibuprofen may help, what post-vaccine fever indicates, and which warning signs deserve attention.
Oct 27, 2026 • 23min
Drs' Notes: Can 'recreational fear' be good for you?
Mathias Clasen, professor and co-director of Aarhus University’s Recreational Fear Lab, and Marc Andersen, a researcher and fellow co-director, explore why we enjoy being scared. They discuss three types of horror fans, haunted attractions, fear’s possible effects on inflammation, and how scary stories may build resilience. They also dream up the perfect haunted house.
11 snips
Oct 27, 2026 • 29min
Why do we love scary movies?
Professors Mathias Clasen and Marc Andersen, Aarhus University researchers who co-direct the Recreational Fear Lab, investigate why we enjoy being scared. They explore horror films, roller coasters, haunted attractions and true crime, plus the biology and psychology of fear play. From dopamine and prediction to parenting and resilience, this is a thrilling look at the strange pleasure of fright.
11 snips
Oct 20, 2026 • 31min
Drs' Notes: Can your joints repair themselves?
Professor Tonia Vincent, an Oxford musculoskeletal biology expert and osteoarthritis researcher, explores what really happens inside damaged joints. They discuss how cartilage senses mechanical stress, whether offloading can trigger repair, and the surprising evidence for cartilage regrowth. They also examine why pain varies so widely, how biology and lifestyle shape osteoarthritis, and the future of regenerative treatments.
14 snips
Oct 20, 2026 • 29min
Will we all get osteoarthritis?
Professor Tonia Vincent, an Oxford musculoskeletal biology expert, explores why osteoarthritis is so common and why it affects women more often. They discuss joint repair, the roles of ageing, weight, genetics and past injuries, plus how strength training and recreational exercise can protect joints. The conversation also examines diagnosis, pain, exercise balance and the limited evidence behind popular supplements.
Oct 13, 2026 • 23min
Drs' Notes: How can spots affect mental health?
Professor Tess McPherson, a consultant dermatologist and Oxford specialist in children’s skin health, explores acne’s emotional toll. They discuss confidence, isolation, stigma and body dysmorphia, alongside the impact of filtered images and skincare influencers. The conversation also covers scarring, treatment options, isotretinoin and why simple skincare may be best.
Oct 13, 2026 • 29min
What can you do about your spots?
Professor Tess McPherson, an Oxford dermatologist specialising in children’s and teenagers’ skin, tackles the reality of acne. They explore why spots form, the roles of hormones and genetics, adult acne triggers, and treatments ranging from benzoyl peroxide to retinoids. Plus: safer spot-squeezing, why toothpaste is a myth, and the emotional weight of acne stigma.
