MedHeads

In today's episode, we cover some major stories in medical news:

First up, the UK High Court has upheld a ban on puberty blockers for youth with gender dysphoria, citing a lack of evidence for their safety and effectiveness. While trans advocacy groups plan to appeal, the ruling limits use to clinical trials for now.

Next, the European Medicines Agency has rejected a license for a promising new Alzheimer's drug called lacanumab over safety concerns, despite the drug showing ability to slow cognitive decline by 25% in trials. The setback is disappointing for many hoping for a treatment.

Finally, an exciting development on the diagnostic front - a new blood test called AP's-2 has demonstrated over 90% accuracy in diagnosing early-stage Alzheimer's, outperforming primary care doctors. The test could revolutionize early detection if approved.

Today, we're delving into some fascinating topics that could impact your health and well-being. First, we'll explore the promising potential of glycine as a supplement for aging and how it might just be the secret to a longer, healthier life. Next, we tackle the evolving landscape of breast cancer screening in Australia and what a shift to a risk-based approach could mean for women everywhere. Finally, we're pulling apart the popular vaping trend to uncover what's really inside those devices and their alarming environmental impact.

Welcome to MedHeads, the podcast where we bring you the latest and most compelling stories in the medical world. I'm your host, Michelle. Today, we're diving into three pivotal issues making waves in the healthcare community.

First, we uncover the severe physical and mental health challenges faced by Julian Assange during his prolonged isolation, highlighting the harsh impacts of confinement.

Next, we turn our focus to the dire financial crisis in Victoria's healthcare system, where a $1.4 billion deficit is forcing hospitals to take drastic cost-cutting measures, impacting patient care and staff morale.

Finally, we explore the newly approved Alzheimer's drug, Donanumab (Kisunla), stirring both hope and controversy with its potential to slow cognitive decline and its significant risks.

First, we'll head down to Victoria, Australia to explore how significant budget cuts are impacting the health sector there, leading to stringent cost-saving measures and hiring freezes. Next, we'll dive into Australia's upcoming vaping ban, which aims to curb youth access despite some legislative compromises. And finally, we'll introduce you to groundbreaking VR technology from King's College London that promises to revolutionize MRI scans for young children

First, we'll delve into a revolutionary treatment for epilepsy, where a young boy named Oren Knowlson is experiencing an 80% reduction in his severe seizures thanks to a new neurostimulator implanted in his skull. Next, we'll discuss the rising costs in veterinary care and the financial burden it places on pet owners seeking top-tier medical treatments for their beloved animals. Lastly, we'll uncover a vital new algorithm named Purple, developed by researchers at Cornell and MIT, aimed at identifying underreported cases of intimate partner violence and ensuring help reaches those in need

First, we explore a PLOS Biology study highlighting the effectiveness and challenges of animal research in therapeutic developments. Next, we celebrate a groundbreaking innovation in the fight against antimicrobial resistance—a rapid test cutting bacterial infection diagnosis times from days to minutes. Lastly, we examine U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy's call for safety warning labels on social media to protect youth mental health.

Antidepressant Discontinuation Insights**: A recent Lancet Psychiatry review reveals that only 1 in 6 or 7 patients will experience symptoms upon stopping antidepressants, with severe symptoms occurring in just 1 in 35 patients. The importance of tapering off medication rather than stopping abruptly is emphasised, aligning with official health guidelines.

Heart Regeneration Research**: Massachusetts General Hospital uncovers groundbreaking differences in scar tissue between zebrafish and mammals, potentially opening new avenues for heart attack treatments. Targeting the enzyme lysol hydroxylase two could prevent permanent scarring, revolutionising the way we treat heart attacks and fibrotic diseases.

Community-Led Child Support**: Insights from the Lancet underline the critical role of culturally sensitive community-led child support systems. Empowering communities to take charge of child support can prevent future tragedies and create healthier environments for our children.

Explore IBD research, the dangers of synthetic opioids, and tips for preventing blood clots during flights in this informative MedHeads Podcast episode.

Join us as we navigate the complex landscape of managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with our expert guest, Charmmy Cheng, from The Dietitian's Kitchen. Today’s focus keyword: "Low FODMAP diet".

In this episode, we revisit the discussion on IBS from a dietetic perspective, highlighting various management strategies, including dietary and non-dietary approaches, medications, and specific therapeutic interventions. Charmmy provides a thorough explanation of the Low FODMAP diet and its phases—the elimination phase, reintroduction phase, and the personalised diet. She also sheds light on the types of foods to avoid, the process of identifying triggers, and the role of family and dietitian support.

**Learning Outcomes:**

1. **Understanding IBS and its Symptoms:** IBS has no cure but can be managed by addressing its symptoms. Learn about the various symptoms of IBS, including bloating, wind, and diarrhea, and how the Low FODMAP diet can help alleviate these symptoms by identifying and removing trigger foods.

2. **Low FODMAP Diet Explained:** Charmmy Cheng explains that the Low FODMAP diet involves reducing foods high in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. Recognise the different stages of the Low FODMAP diet, why it's important to follow each phase diligently, and how it can help manage IBS symptoms.

3. **Identifying Triggers:** During the reintroduction phase, the patient systematically reintroduces high FODMAP foods to their diet to determine individual triggers. Discover practical methods for tracking food intake and symptoms and how this information can be used to create a personalised diet.

4. **Long-Term Management:** Charmmy points out the importance of creating a personalised diet plan to prevent nutrient deficiencies and maintain overall health. Learn about the significance of having family support and a dietitian's guidance throughout this process for successful long-term management of IBS.

**Actionable Takeaways:**

1. **Dietary Patterns and Food Triggers:** Begin by keeping a detailed food diary, noting what you eat and the symptoms you experience. This helps in identifying potential food triggers and patterns related to your IBS symptoms.

2. **Implementing the Low FODMAP Diet:** Follow the three key phases of the Low FODMAP diet—elimination, reintroduction, and personalisation. The elimination phase involves a strict diet for four to six weeks, avoiding high FODMAP foods like onions, garlic, dairy, and certain grains.

3. **Effective Reintroduction and Testing:** During the reintroduction phase, add one high FODMAP food at a time, starting with a small amount and gradually increasing it. Monitor symptoms meticulously to identify which foods trigger your IBS.

4. **Seeking Professional Guidance:** Work with a qualified dietitian to navigate the complexities of the Low FODMAP diet effectively. Family support is crucial, and having a dietitian guide you through each phase ensures you maintain balanced nutrition and avoid long-term deficiencies.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into three compelling health stories. We’ll explore whether magnesium supplements can cure anxiety, examine the concerning high excess death rates in the western world since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and discuss the surprising health risks associated with alcohol consumption during long-haul flights.