Unbiased Science

We're back, friends! On this first episode of season 2, we answer the question, "what’s the update on variants and vaccine effectiveness?" We kick things off with a snapshot of the overall COVID-19 case rate, mortality and hospitalization data, and vaccine uptake. Next, we define some terminology-- specifically the difference between efficacy and effectiveness. We then discuss clinical trial and real-world effectiveness data for the three vaccines currently in use in the United States (Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J). Of course, we had to talk boosters-- so we summarize the recent recommendations from the FDA and CDC, and what they mean for Americans. Next, we talk about Delta and some of the other variants that have people talking these days. We wrap things up by clarifying that vaccines do, in fact, prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through a few different mechanisms including reduced viral load, shortened infectious period, and overall reduced risk of infection. We hope you enjoy! We have lots of exciting episodes lined up for this season so stay tuned! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the pod, we answer a question that we receive quite frequently: What are the current effective COVID-19 treatments?We spend some time discussing how attempts have been made to repurpose existing medications for treatment which saves time rather than developing new ones from scratch. We kick things off with remdesivir-- the only FDA-approved treatment for adults and some children who require hospitalization. We discuss how remdesivir works and present some real-world evidence of its impact on mortality and time-to-discharge from the hospital. Next, we tackle monoclonal antibody treatments which have received emergency use authorization from the FDA to treat mild/moderate COVID-19 illness in adults and some older children. We discuss some other treatments (such as Baricitinib plus remdesivir) and Tocilizumab. We also discuss Dexamethasone and present some trial data on its use in improving mortality rates as compared to usual care. Next, we spend some time discussing nutritional supplements such as vitamin C, zinc, and particularly vitamin D which has received a lot of attention (mainly by supplement sellers). We briefly talk about the current status of ongoing clinical trials, using the oral antiviral Molnupiravir as an example. Next, we talk at length about Ivermectin and the mixed and weak evidence that has led the FDA, NIH, and WHO to conclude that there are insufficient data for the use of Ivermectin to treat COVID-19. Finally, we close the episode with a discussion of Hydroxychloroquine and the fact that clinical trials were halted early due to lack of effectiveness. We are taking a break for the summer, but plan to come back with some exciting content in season 2! Stay safe, everyone! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the pod, we answer the question, "are probiotics beneficial?"We kick things off with a description of probiotics and, more generally, all the microorganisms that live in symbiosis with us (collectively called the microbiome). We discuss the complexity of our microbiome and the fact that no two people have the same microbial cells (not even twins)! We spend some time talking specifically about the gut microbiome and different bacterial species that it is composed of. Next, we dig into the literature to explore the evidence (or lack thereof) of the benefits of probiotic therapy. We specifically investigate the use of probiotics for antibiotic-associated diarrhea, yeast infections and other urogenital issues, colic in infants, and necrotizing enterocolitis in very-low-birth-weight infants. We talk about different types of probiotics-- specifically refrigerated versus shelf-stable and the variety of probiotics on the market. Finally, we dive into the U.S. regulation of probiotics and quality control issues with unregulated probiotics, as well as potential harms of probiotics for specific sub-populations at high-risk. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the pod, we continue our conversation on e-cigarettes. Last week, we focused on the harms of nicotine itself, but this week we start our discussion on the harms of other ingredients in e-cigarettes including toxic chemicals and heavy metals. We spend some time discussing popcorn lung-- a serious lung disease caused by e-cigarette use. We discuss the flavorings in e-cigarettes and some recent research conducted on their impact on health outcomes including vascular issues, cardiac health, and wound healing. We dig into the current body of evidence on whether e-cigarettes are an effective cessation tool (spoiler alert: the evidence is mixed) and how some smokers become dual users of traditional cigarettes and e-cigs. We also discuss how many people (especially youth) are looking to quit vaping and some resources available to assist them in their cessation efforts. We then discuss how vaping can lead to smoking initiation among non-smokers (especially youth). Finally, we discuss some issues around regulation and the legality of marketing tactics. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the pod, we address the question: are e-cigarettes harmful?We kick things off with an introduction to e-cigs -- what they are, and the different types of e-cigs on the market. We discuss the global e-cigarette and vape market and the blurred lines between the vaping and tobacco industries. We spend some time discussing how e-cigarettes compare to traditional, combustible cigarettes. We talk about e-cigarette smoking rates and how they are on the rise among teenagers. We tackle the topic of nicotine and detail many of the things it does to our bodies including physical, pharmacologic, and psychodynamic effects-- as well as its impact on our immune system and biological processes. Next week, we will continue the discussion on e-cigarettes and their impact on smoking initiation among youth and non-smokers, as well as their potential as a smoking cessation tool. We hope you'll tune in!PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the pod, we answer the question: How do tattoos work? We kick things off with a summary of the tattooing process and some statistics on how common tattooing is (broken out by demographics). We talk about the various reasons why people get tattooed -- some of which are cultural and/or religious. We summarize some history of tattoos as far back as several thousands of years ago. We then dig into the science of modern tattoos and detail the immune response that is triggered when we get tattooed (it's a complex process involving innate immune cells called macrophages). We spend some time discussing how tattoos may seem static and permanent but actually represent an indefinite, dynamic process. We discuss why the permanence of tattoos contribute to the challenges in removal. We of course detail some risks of tattoos including allergic reactions, skin infections, and the regulation (or lack thereof) of tattoo ink and potential safety issues. We wrap up with a brief discussion about how some people with tattoos are opposed to vaccines-- and touch upon the complicated psychology and cognitive dissonance involved in that thought process.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the pod we tackle something that over 40% of Americans are currently battling-- pandemic-related anxiety, specifically COVID anxiety, OCD-related anxiety, hypochondria (and cyberchondria) and “returning to normal” anxiety. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we’ve gotten a lot of Heard from the Herd questions regarding how to manage mental health issues directly related to pandemic. We kick things off by defining the different types of anxieties that people are experiencing and the specific populations at higher risk for developing them. We talk through some evidence-based tips for building up personal resilience during this time and some coping mechanisms. We spend some time talking about re-entry anxiety-- especially in light of the new CDC guidance that states that masks are not required for fully-vaccinated individuals in most indoor and outdoor settings. Finally, we discuss different types of treatments and when it's time to seek professional help.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the pod, we continue our discussion on the basics of cancer. We briefly review the fact that cancer is a catch-all phrase for hundreds of different illnesses, all ultimately linked to dysregulation of normal cellular processes. We elaborate on some cellular processes that break down during the development of cancer, particularly with regard to gene mutations. While last week we touched on broad risk factors for cancer, today we highlight some viral infections that can lead to the development of cancer. We spend some time discussing mutations and how they contribute to the progression of cancer, with a focus on 3 classes of genes that are most commonly implicated in cancer. We then discuss how cancer is able to camouflage itself from the immune system, using a specific example to illustrate this. We switch gears to discuss categories of treatments, including radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, as well as newer cancer therapies including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapies. We set the stage for additional in-depth discussions on some of these types of therapies in future episodes.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Please note: We experienced some unavoidable technical difficulties during recording, which you may notice throughout the episode. We are always working to improve quality and appreciate your patience and support! On this week’s episode of the pod, we take a break from discussing COVID-19 to discuss something that has undoubtedly touched all of our lives—cancer. We kick things off with a population health summary of cancer incidence and prevalence, to understand its disease burden in the US and globally. We discuss how the pandemic has impacted diagnosis and treatment of cancer due to reduced access to care which will take years to quantify. Next, we dive into the actual definition of cancer and how it is not one disease but rather hundreds of different diseases. We discuss mutations and the impact of genetic heterogeneity on cancer development. We talk about the different ways to categorize cancers and some nomenclature. We describe how signs and symptoms caused by cancer will vary depending on what part of the body is affected but outline some general signs and symptoms associated with, but not specific to, cancer. We talk about some risk factors for cancer—genetic, behavioral, and environmental – and how some can be modified, while others cannot. We could spend many hours talking about this topic—so next week, we will continue the conversation and discuss treatment options and clinical outcomes.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of the podcast, we provide an update on the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and walk through the details of the ACIP hearing on safety-- and the ultimate decision to lift the pause. We describe thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), treatment considerations, and side effects to monitor. We reiterate that the benefits outweigh the small risk for this adverse event and the rigorous monitoring of these events should instill confidence in our vaccine surveillance system. We then shift gears and provide you with a recording from a vaccine Q&A that we conducted last week that covers many of the commonly asked questions about viral transmission, vaccine efficacy, and variants. We discuss many topics ranging from FDA approval to types of vaccine technologies used (and how NONE of the vaccines contain any live virus and, thus, cannot infect you). Next week, we will return to our planned discussion on cancer and some of the major risk factors for this disease.PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices