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Chasing Life

Latest episodes

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Jul 15, 2025 • 16min

When to Blame Aging—and When Not To

The podcast dives into the nuances of aging and what should be of concern. Dr. Sanjay Gupta addresses mobility and balance, emphasizing the importance of staying active to prevent falls. It also tackles the often-misunderstood condition of tinnitus, explaining its effects and management strategies. Listeners learn about practical solutions and the significance of early intervention. With insights on when to worry and when to adapt, this conversation offers valuable information for navigating the complexities of aging.
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11 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 34min

Did you take your vitamins today? Maybe you don’t have to

Dr. Pieter Cohen, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard and expert in supplement safety, breaks down the complexities of the dietary supplement landscape. He discusses the lack of regulatory oversight and the hidden dangers of unapproved products. The conversation highlights the growing need for informed choices amidst rampant claims. Cohen emphasizes the importance of quality and efficacy in supplements like CoQ10 and turmeric. Ultimately, he urges listeners to be diligent in assessing what they really need for their health.
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5 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 18min

Do We All Have a ‘Cancer Gene’?

A listener grapples with cancer risk after losing both parents to bone cancer. Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the complexities of 'cancer genes' and the influence of lifestyle choices on genetic predisposition. The conversation shifts to sleep, tackling whether nightly sleep aids lead to worse outcomes than fragmented slumber. Insights into cognitive behavioral therapy for sleep improvement provide listeners with alternative strategies. Overall, it's a deep dive into understanding health risks and navigating personal wellbeing.
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20 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 33min

How Surgeons Balance Hope with Honesty

David Sandberg, a retired pediatric neurosurgeon and author, shares his insights into the high-stakes world of children's surgery. He recounts a poignant Christmas Eve procedure that shaped his career and the emotional complexities in the operating room. The conversation dives into balancing hope and honesty when faced with challenging medical decisions, showcasing the inspiring journey of young patients like Garrett. Sandberg emphasizes the need for transparent communication and empathy in discussions with families, navigating the unpredictable landscape of pediatric neurosurgery.
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6 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 17min

A Doctor-Approved Guide to the Sun This Summer

Discover the benefits of morning sunlight and how it can boost your mood and vitamin D levels. Learn the ins and outs of choosing the right sunscreen, including the difference between mineral and chemical options. Uncover common sunscreen application mistakes and effective tips for protecting your skin. Understand the importance of eye protection from sunlight and debunk myths about sun exposure. Get ready for a safe and sunny summer with essential sun safety strategies!
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13 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 23min

The Man with the Pig Kidney

Tim Andrews, a medical pioneer, shares his groundbreaking journey of receiving a kidney transplant from a pig in January 2025. He discusses the emotional liberation from dialysis and the challenges he faces post-transplant, including medication regimens. The conversation dives into ethical dilemmas surrounding xenotransplantation and the response from religious communities, exploring the complex interplay of innovation and morality in medicine. Additionally, Tim highlights the promising future of personalized organ creation through advanced technologies, offering hope to countless patients.
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5 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 15min

How Far Are We from Animal Organs Saving Lives?

Explore the fascinating field of xenotransplantation, where animal organs, particularly pig organs, are becoming viable for human use. Dr. Sanjay Gupta discusses groundbreaking advances like genetically engineered pig kidneys and their role in tackling the organ shortage crisis. The podcast dives into the compatibility of these organs with human cells, patient experiences, and ethical considerations. Discover how this cutting-edge technology might reshape the future of medicine and organ donation.
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7 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 30min

The Organ Transplant Revolution Starts Here

Robert Montgomery is a pioneering transplant surgeon who not only received a heart transplant himself but also made headlines by performing the first pig kidney transplant in a brain-dead patient. In this discussion, he tackles the urgent organ transplant crisis, where over 100,000 people are on waiting lists. Montgomery highlights the potential of using genetically engineered animal organs, like pig kidneys, to combat shortages. He shares his personal journey through kidney failure and the ethical implications of xenotransplantation, offering a beacon of hope for those in need.
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8 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 17min

How AI Might Be Helping Your Doctor Treat You

Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing healthcare, from early diagnosis to enhancing doctor-patient interactions. Delve into the balance of optimism and skepticism surrounding AI's role in medicine. Learn about the complexities of pain management, including which medications work best for different types of pain. Get practical tips on safe pain relief and alternative strategies to improve your well-being. This engaging discussion sheds light on the future of medical care and pain management.
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43 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 32min

The Answer to Pain May Lie in Your Brain

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent and a practicing neurosurgeon, dives into the complexities of chronic pain and its mental ramifications. He discusses his new book, emphasizing that pain is often subjective and hard to measure. Gupta explores innovative pain management strategies, including groundbreaking medications and the surprising benefits of exercise over rest. He encourages listeners to consider diet’s role in pain relief and the importance of community support, inspiring a hopeful outlook on living a pain-free life.

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