Mayo Clinic Clear Approach

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Hemochromatosis is an iron storage disease that affects not only the liver, but also the heart, kidneys, and central nervous system.  Although not the most common condition, it is often associated with a genetic abnormality -- and those with the gene are typically unaware of it until middle-age.  The key is in screening for it --  before it becomes a significant medical problem.  What about pilots who have hemochromatosis?  Can they be certified?  What is the process?  This episode covers the details of this condition and the potential aeromedical pitfalls.

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Male hypogonadism, otherwise known as "low T" is a common diagnosis received by adult males, including those who operate aircraft.  Many medical providers who prescribe testosterone supplements do not "speak airplane," making aeromedical certification challenging in certain cases.  What does it take to obtain or maintain a medical certificate when prescribed supplemental testosterone?  We discuss the details.

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Ever wonder what can be annoying to your aviation medical examiner?  On this episode, we pick a few favorites and jokingly review the top "pet peeves" on the list.

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Although a relatively rare type of cancer, testicular carcinoma affects thousands of individuals each year.  On this episode, we discuss what it is and what is required for aeromedical certification.

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Although breast cancer can be devastating for any individual being diagnosed with the disease, the aeromedical certification process has come full circle and allowed for pilots to obtain their medical certificates relatively easily with appropriate preparation and documentation of clinical stability.

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On this episode, we discuss a couple of conditions not commonly seen in pilots but which can make a difference in terms of aeromedical certification.  We look at pectus excavatum, otherwise known as "funnel chest," and how pilots with speech impediments can still qualify for their FAA medical certificate.

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LADA, or latent autoimmune diabetes of adults, is often misdiagnosed and is sometimes called "diabetes 1.5." On this episode, we'll review what LADA is, what to look for, and how it affects aeromedical certification.

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Pacemakers are amazing devices that can help regulate heart rhythms, synchronize arrhythmias, and can be career saving for certain pilots.   On this episode, we discuss certification requirements for aviators who will need Special Issuance Authorization for pacemakers.  A little preparation goes a long way.

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Psoriasis is a chronic and incurable condition involving the skin that is sometime associated with arthritis and other autoimmune conditions.  There are a variety of treatments for this disease and we discuss aeromedical implications to minimize delays in certification. 

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In the process of conducting dozens of flight physicals, there are questions that periodically come up when filling out the medical application form.  On this episode, we review some of those head-scratching anecdotes and how to efficiently complete the process.