Mayo Clinic Health Matters

When it comes to medical care, men are less likely to seek care than women. While men may typically avoid seeing their health care provider, some problems often prompt them to take action. One complaint that can bring men to the doctor's office is erectile dysfunction, which is the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex. Since erectile dysfunction also can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment, and it is a risk factor for heart disease, it is important for men to talk to their health care provider. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Sevann Helo, a Mayo Clinic urologist, discusses men's sexual health and treatments for erectile dysfunction, as well as male infertility. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

While the number of COVID-19 cases continues to surge, there is positive news on the vaccine front. In early clinical trial data, two vaccines have now shown at least 90% effectiveness in reducing the risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. While more time and research is needed to understand how long the immunity from a vaccine lasts, experts believe a vaccine could be approved for emergency use authorization before the end of the year. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses the latest on current COVID-19 clinical trials. Dr. Poland also explains what public health experts mean by community spread of the virus and why that leads to exponential growth in cases of COVID-19.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system and causes seizures. More than 3 million Americans and more than 65 million people worldwide have epilepsy - a key reason that November is recognized as National Epilepsy Awareness Month. Thankfully, treatment with medications or sometimes surgery can control seizures for most people with epilepsy. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Joseph Sirven, a Mayo Clinic neurologist, discusses the importance of raising awareness of epilepsy to lessen the stigma, Dr. Sirven also highlights the latest in treatments and research. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

An estimated 47 million Americans are living with cardiometabolic diseases, according to the American College of Cardiology. Cardiometabolic diseases are interrelated conditions that include cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, as well as metabolic diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Patients with cardiometabolic diseases have a higher risk of not only developing COVID-19, but also developing complications related to COVID-19. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Stephen Kopecky, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, discusses lifestyle factors that affect cardiometabolic diseases and how COVID-19 can damage the heart. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, one of the areas of science and research most affected was laboratory medicine. From developing tests that detect the virus, to testing for antibodies in patients who have recovered, Mayo Clinic Laboratories has been at the forefront of COVID-19 testing and research. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. William Morice II, president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories and chair of the department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic, explains how a reference lab works and how Mayo Clinic Laboratories quickly ramped up its testing capability to meet pandemic testing needs. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The U.S. reached the wrong kind of milestones this past week, reporting the 10 millionth coronavirus case and daily infection rates repeatedly topping the 100,000 mark. Cases of COVID-19 have been spiking for weeks as a third wave of infections spreads across the country. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses the growing number of coronavirus cases in the U.S. and across Europe, and what can be done to reverse the trends.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. In the U.S., 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Prostate cancer that's detected early — when it's still confined to the prostate gland — has a better chance to be successfully treated, so it's important that men know their risk factors. The "Movember" movement is encouraging men to grow a mustache in November to raise awareness of men's health issues, including prostate cancer. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Raymond Pak, a Mayo Clinic urologist, explains the guidelines for prostate screening and when to get a second opinion. Dr. Pak also shares the latest advances in treatment for prostate cancer. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Pancreatic cancer tends to spread quickly and early detection is uncommon. For up to 50% of patients, at the time of their diagnosis, the cancer has spread outside the pancreas to other organs. Survival rates are typically 12 to 18 months, but there have been improvements in surgical techniques and chemotherapy. In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Mark Truty, an oncology surgeon, and Dr. Santhi Swaroop Vege, a gastroenterologist, talk about treatment options, new chemotherapies, improving a patient's quality of life and the collaborative approach to team-based patient care at Mayo Clinic. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Congential heart defects are the most common birth defect in the U.S., affecting approximately 1 in every 110 (about 40,000) babies each year. Some congenital heart defects in children are simple and don't need treatment. Other congenital heart defects are more complex and may require several surgeries performed over a period of several years. This special edition of the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast features an #AskMayoMom episode, which is hosted by Dr. Angela Mattke, a pediatrician at Mayo Clinic Children's Center. Joining Dr. Mattke to discuss cardiovascular surgery is Dr. Elizabeth Stephens, a Mayo Clinic pediatric cardiovascular surgeon. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A recent survey conducted on behalf of the American Psychological Association found that nearly 80% of adults say that the coronavirus pandemic is a significant source of stress in their lives. In addition, 60% say that they are overwhelmed by the number of issues America faces, including health care, the economy, racism and political tensions. Now, the holidays are looming, a time of year that often brings heightened family and relationship stress. How can we better cope in these unsettling times? On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Craig Sawchuk, the division chair of Integrated Behavioral Health at Mayo Clinic, discusses how to handle relationships and stress during the holidays and beyond. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Each week, the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast shares the latest information on COVID-19. On today's episode, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, answers listeners' coronavirus questions. Dr. Poland discusses how to stay safe from the virus while exercising outdoors, whether temperature checks help screen for COVID-19, and how to deal with holiday travel and gatherings this year.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The second edition of "Mayo Clinic on Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias: A Guide for People With Dementia and Those Who Care for Them" answers many common questions including: When it comes to memory, what is typical aging? What is the difference between Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia? How can you keep your brain healthy? On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, co-editors of the book, Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford, a behavioral neurologist at Mayo Clinic, and Angela Lunde, co-investigator in Mayo Clinic's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, highlight the book's focus on personal stories of those living with dementia and practical advice for caregivers. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A recent Mayo Clinic study looked at the disproportionate effects of COVID-19 on racial and ethnic minorities. "We found that environmental factors, especially systemic racism and problems with housing density, predispose these patients to having more chances of infection," says Dr. Aditya Shah, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases expert and one of the authors of the study. In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Shah explains the research findings and discusses how clinicians can help bring awareness to health disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic and other public health emergencies. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As positive cases of COVID-19 continue to spike across much of the country, the role of contact tracing to prevent further spread becomes more important. Contact tracing is the process of notifying people who have had close contact with people newly infected with COVID-19, to let them know they may have been exposed. When it comes to contact tracing, quarantining and isolation, timing is critical to prevent further infections. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Laura Breeher, a preventive medicine specialist and medical director of Occupational Health Services at Mayo Clinic, explains how digital tools were developed at Mayo Clinic to aid in contact tracing. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its guidelines for defining close contact with a person who is positive for COVID-19. Previously, close contact was defined as occurring when someone was within 6 feet of an infectious person for 15 consecutive minutes. Now close contact includes people who were within 6 feet for a total of 15 minutes over a 24-hour period, as the CDC now advises that repeated, brief encounters also carry a risk of transmission. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses the updated information from the CDC and the latest information from the Food and Drug Administration on COVID-19 treatments and vaccines.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As most of America prepares to “fall back” and end daylight saving time, many people welcome the extra hour of sleep. But how do time changes affect the body and sleep patterns? On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Lois Krahn, a Mayo Clinic psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist, discusses daylight saving time and offers sleep hygiene tips for dealing with time and season changes Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Halloween is just around the corner. Usually, this means trick-or-treating, fall parties, and lots of candy and treats for children and families. But this year is different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Halloween festivities need to be adapted to protect those who are most vulnerable and slow the spread of COVID-19. This special edition of the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast features an #AskMayoMom episode, which is hosted by Dr. Angela Mattke, a pediatrician at Mayo Clinic Children's Center. Joining Dr. Mattke to discuss safe Halloween activities during the pandemic are Dr. Nipunie Rajapakse, a pediatric infectious diseases physician at Mayo Clinic, and Dr. Kelsey Klaas, a Mayo Clinic pediatrician. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As the COVID pandemic continues and flu season begins, staying healthy and finding ways to improve your immunity is important. "A resilient immune system is not just preventing, but constantly eliminating our exposures to background infections or inflammatory agents," says Dr. Anjali Bhagra, a Mayo Clinic integrative medicine specialist. "It allows your body to keep healing from inflammatory or infective triggers." In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast Dr. Bhagra, whose research focuses on resilience, talks about the ways to build your immune system and how resiliency practices can help you cope with illnesses this winter. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The race to COVID-19 vaccines and treatments continues, with multiple clinical trials now in the final stages of testing. While the research is moving rapidly, it’s not without challenges. Two different trials were paused recently over potential safety concerns. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses current COVID-19 clinical trials. Dr. Poland also covers the possibility of reinfection with COVID-19, and the importance of getting a flu vaccination to protect yourself from influenza during the pandemic.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is an early form of a non-invasive breast cancer that begins as abnormal cells inside the milk ducts in the breast. It typically doesn't show signs or symptoms and it's estimated that up to 40% of cases eventually become invasive if not treated. The current standard treatment is to perform a lumpectomy or a mastectomy in more extreme cases. Clinical trials are underway to determine if some patients with ductal carcinoma in situ might be able to avoid surgery. "In addition to considering proton therapy to target the cancer, Mayo Clinic is conducting a clinical trial that involves a vaccine that could boost immunity against the HER2 receptor," says Dr. Amy Degnim, a surgeon with the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center. "HER2 is a protein that in some cases is on the outside of cancer cells and for women with ductal carcinoma in situ, these receptors are present in about 50% to 60% of the cases." In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast Dr. Degnim, and one of her patients, Helen Gagoud, discuss receiving a ductal carcinoma in situ diagnosis and determining treatment, as well as the hopeful vaccine research at Mayo Clinic. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As cases of COVID-19 rise in many areas of the U.S., it's important for people to have up-to-date information to protect themselves and their loved ones. Mayo Clinic has a tracking tool that features the latest COVID-19 data for every county in all 50 states, and Washington, D.C. The tool also features Mayo Clinic insight on how to assess risk and plan accordingly. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Henry Ting, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist and health services researcher, discusses the COVID-19 tracking tool and other COVID-19 resources available from Mayo Clinic. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mayo Clinic recently performed the first-ever shoulder arthroplasty procedure that used mixed reality technology in the United States. This technology provides surgeons with a 3D holographic view of the patient's preoperative plan, allowing the surgeon to visualize, rotate and interact with a surgical plan during the procedure. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Joaquin Sanchez-Sotelo, a Mayo Clinic orthopedic surgeon, explains how mixed reality technology helps put the surgical plan into action. Dr. Sanchez-Sotelo and Mayo Clinic have a financial interest in Wright Medical Group N.V., which developed the mixed reality technology. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

After COVID-19 patients have recovered from the infection, some continue to have lingering effects from the disease, known as post-COVID syndrome. To help these patients, Mayo Clinic has launched the COVID-19 Activity Rehabilitation Program. This program takes a multidisciplinary approach, including specialists in occupational medicine, pulmonary medicine, psychiatry and infectious diseases to treat persistent symptoms and help patients return to daily activities and work. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Greg Vanichkachorn, a Mayo Clinic preventive, occupational and aerospace medicine specialist who leads the program, discusses the symptoms of post-COVID syndrome and explains how the COVID-19 Activity Rehabilitation Program helps people return to normal activity. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Severe lung damage has been a serious outcome for COVID-19 patients who survive and face recovery from the disease. "As we know, lungs are one of the major organs that are involved with COVID infection," says Dr. Sadia Shah, a Mayo Clinic transplant pulmonologist and critical care physician. "In severe cases, the patient's lungs can be significantly inflamed from the disease, leading to pneumonia and scarring of the lungs, also known as pulmonary fibrosis." She says that, in the future, these are the patients who may need a lung transplant. In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Shah talks about COVID-19 lung damage, the speculation there will be an increased need for lung transplants, and what improvements are being made in the field of lung transplantation. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments that help stabilize the knee joint. The ACL connects your thighbone, or femur, to your shinbone, or tibia. It's most commonly torn during sports that involve sudden stops and changes in direction, such as basketball, soccer, tennis and volleyball. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Matthew Crowe, an orthopedic surgeon at Mayo Clinic in Florida, discusses ACL injury treatment options, including surgery and how proper training can reduce the risk of ACL injury. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In an effort to reassure the public about the safety and effectiveness of a vaccine, the Food and Drug Administration has set stricter standardsfor COVID-19 vaccine development. These standards include following phase 3 clinical trial participants for at least two months, and having at least five severe COVID-19 cases in the placebo group. The agency's requirements are designed to ensure that there is adequate safety data on any vaccine before it is authorized for emergency use. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses vaccine development standards and shares concerns about the second wave of COVID-19 infections.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

According to an article in the journal JAMA Network Open, American adults report they are drinking 14% more often during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the research didn't determine why drinking frequency has increased, health experts worry that people are turning to alcohol to cope with the stress, anxiety, and isolation caused by the pandemic. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Victor Karpyak, a Mayo Clinic psychiatrist and addiction researcher, discusses alcohol use and the warning signs that drinking may be a problem. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Children benefit from social interaction, and participating in sports activities is one way to spend time with peers. It's a chance to exercise and learn socialization skills. "But most sports require close contact, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is creating a dilemma," says Dr. David Soma, a Mayo Clinic pediatrician. In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Soma discusses risks and benefits of youth sports during the pandemic and offers suggestions to minimize the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mayo Clinic's Quality Academy was created in 2006 to deliver effective and cohesive quality improvement education across Mayo. The Quality Academy now offers more than 20 different courses for both individuals and teams. Now the Quality Academy is expanding its offerings beyond Mayo Clinic. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Quality Academy leaders Dr. Nneka Comfere, medical director; Barbara Jordan, administrator; and Jolene Anderson-Rau, operations manager, discuss how the Quality Academy is delivering quality improvement in health care. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Integrative health care for women encompasses a wide range of health issues, beyond what people might think are the usual areas of concern. Women's health generally focuses on breast health and gynecological health, but Dr. Jackie Thielen, an internal medicine physician with the Women's Health Specialty Center at Mayo Clinic in Florida, says women respond differently to other illnesses than men. Dr. Thielen says, "Women are simply not a smaller version of men, and they may experience illnesses differently." She says arthritic diseases or endocrine issues, even cancers, are different because of genetics, and how women's hormones and bodies work. In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Thielen discusses why integrative health care is so important for women. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Pediatricians and family physicians are alerting parents that it’s important to keep their children up to date on routine vaccinations, whether or not children attend in-person school. "We’ve had a number of difficulties with the COVID-19 pandemic that actually resulted in children missing months of well-child visits in which routine vaccines were given," says Dr. Robert Jacobson, a Mayo Clinic pediatrician. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Jacobson discusses childhood vaccinations and the extra importance of getting a flu vaccination this year during the pandemic. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Antiviral drugs are medicines that fight against viruses in your body by impeding the infection process. Antivirals are commonly used to treat HIV/AIDS, influenza, herpes, and hepatitis B and C. The antiviral, Remdesivir, which was originally developed to fight Ebola, is now being used to treat COVID-19. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, explains how antivirals work to shorten the course of the disease. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

While most people who contract COVID-19 will be able to manage symptoms and recover at home, there are some who have a more severe course of the disease and need to be hospitalized. Physicians and scientists have learned a lot about COVID-19 in the first nine months of the pandemic, and that new knowledge is improving treatments for patients hospitalized with COVID-19. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Raymund Razonable, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist, discusses management of hospitalized patients with COVID-19, including therapeutics available to treat COVID-19. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When patients are diagnosed with COVID-19, they are required to self-isolate until the infection is cleared. Some patients will be at risk for complications, and may need comprehensive support at home. Providing that support is the goal of Mayo Clinic's remote patient monitoring team. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Ryan T. Hurt, a Mayo Clinic general internal medicine specialist, explains how remote monitoring benefits patients. Dr. Hurt helped form the team that manages positive COVID-19 test results at Mayo Clinic in Rochester and the Mayo Clinic Health System. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It has been a remarkable year of discoveries and medical advances at Mayo Clinic's Center for Individualized Medicine. Some innovations include personalized treatments for cancer and rare diseases, and the development of lifesaving artificial intelligence algorithms. All of the center’s efforts are driven by advanced genetic analysis and aimed at providing patients with answers, treatment options and optimism. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Marina Walther-Antonio discusses the microbiome and gynecologic cancers. Dr. Walther-Antonio is assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and in the Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine Microbiome Program. She has a joint appointment in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her research focuses on the role of the human microbiome in women's health. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It has been a remarkable year of discoveries and medical advances at Mayo Clinic's Center for Individualized Medicine. Some innovations include personalized treatments for cancer and rare diseases, and the development of lifesaving artificial intelligence algorithms. All of the center’s efforts are driven by advanced genetic analysis and aimed at providing patients with answers, treatment options and optimism. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Jewel Samadder discusses precision oncology. Dr. Samadder associate program director for the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellowship Program and program leader for clinical genomics in the Center for Individualized Medicine in Arizona. He also is an associate medical director in the Department of Development. Dr. Samadder’s research focuses on colorectal cancer and inherited predisposition to cancer. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It has been a remarkable year of discoveries and medical advances at Mayo Clinic's Center for Individualized Medicine. Some innovations include personalized treatments for cancer and rare diseases, and the development of lifesaving artificial intelligence algorithms. All of the center’s efforts are driven by advanced genetic analysis and aimed at providing patients with answers, treatment options and optimism. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. John Kalantari discusses artificial general intelligence. Dr. Kalantari is an associate consultant in the Department of Surgery, and a faculty member in the Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine Microbiome Program. He has a joint appointment in the department of Health Sciences Research. His research focuses on artificial general intelligence and the development of AI algorithms for predictive analytics, clinical decision-making and causal inference for preventive medicine. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A new study from Mayo Clinic, published in the American Journal of Transplantation, found that patients with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) can have dual surgery safely. This means patients with large polycystic kidneys in need of a kidney transplant can have their diseased kidneys safely removed at the same time as their transplant surgery, instead of having two separate procedures. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Mikel Prieto, a Mayo Clinic transplant surgeon and senior author of the study, explains the results of the study and the benefits of dual surgery for PKD. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, women have reportedly skipped or delayed their regular breast cancer screenings. This may lead to a surge in breast cancer diagnoses in the months ahead. That's according to a study in JAMA. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Dr. Katie Hunt, a Mayo Clinic radiologist, says it's the perfect time to make sure women are up to date on their breast cancer screenings. In this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Hunt discusses a variety of recommendations for screening and encourages women not to miss the window of opportunity to catch breast cancer early. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

With the COVID-19 pandemic entering a tenth month, experts says adherence to public health measures appears to be waning in some parts of the country. "COVID fatigue," meaning failing to comply with masking, hand hygiene and physical distancing guidelines, has fueled a resurgence in COVID-19 cases in more than half of the U.S. states. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses the rising number of COVID-19 cases and how vaccine experts in science and industry are working together in unprecedented ways.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Transplants are identified as nonelective surgeries, and transplant patients have faced urgent medical needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Our practice, like many others across the country, did slow down in March and April of this year," says Dr. Patrick Dean, a Mayo Clinic transplant surgeon. "Patients and providers were concerned ― appropriately so ― about what would happen with this pandemic and whether it would be safe to have a transplant or for that matter any health care that wasn't absolutely emergent." In this "Mayo Clinic Q&A" podcast, Dr. Dean talks about taking care of transplant patients; overcoming surgery challenges during the pandemic; the increased risks transplant patients have of developing SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, because of compromised immune systems; and the important need for COVID-19 testing. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of digital health care, with telemedicine playing a big role in treating patients during the pandemic. But telemedicine appointments are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to changing the way health care will be delivered in the future. Mayo Clinic Platform is a collection of initiatives focused on transforming health care by using technology, big data and artificial intelligence to make connections. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. John Halamka, president of Mayo Clinic Platform, explains how the platform initiatives are meeting patient needs and creating new care delivery possibilities. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it’s more important than ever to get a flu vaccine this year to keep people healthy and not overload the health care system. While a flu vaccine won't protect against COVID-19, flu vaccines will reduce your risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. "You need to get the flu vaccine at least two weeks prior to the onset of flu activity in your region," says Dr. Priya Sampathkumar, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist. On this edition of the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Sampathkumar discusses who should get a flu vaccine and when. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

With fall approaching and winter just around the corner, many are wondering how COVID-19 will affect this flu season. Some experts warn of a “twindemic,” with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of influenza overlapping here in the Northern Hemisphere. To keep people healthy and not overload the health care system, experts say getting a flu vaccine this year is more important than ever. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, discusses flu vaccinations and shares some good news from the Southern Hemisphere's flu season.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

With wildfires burning in the western U.S., smoke is affecting air quality for hundreds of miles. Wildfire smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, and also can be dangerous for the elderly and people with heart and lung conditions. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Clayton Cowl, chair of the Division of Preventive, Occupational and Aerospace Medicine at Mayo Clinic, discusses the health risks of breathing in wildfire smoke and what you can do to protect yourself. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to create challenges, including returning to school with hybrid learning modules for children. There are also anxieties and uncertainties to navigate, while trying to follow COVID-19 guidelines. In this "Mayo Clinic Q&A" podcast, Dr. Angela Mattke, a Mayo Clinic pediatrician and host of #AskTheMayoMom, talks about the concerns her patients have, and what important things parents and caregivers should take into consideration when helping children stay healthy. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Once a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 is approved, there will be logistics to consider. For example, who will receive the vaccine first, and how can the supply chain safely deliver the vaccine to 330 million Americans and potentially more than 7 billion people worldwide? In addition, multiple vaccines may be brought to market within weeks to months of each other, confusing consumers. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert and head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group, explains the challenges of rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine.Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Using a new technology platform, Mayo Clinic recently began a new care model called Advanced Care at Home. Some patients with conditions that were previously managed in the hospital will now have the option to be treated and monitored from the comfort of their own home. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Michael Maniaci, chair of the Division Hospital Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Florida, discusses the benefits of the new Advanced Care at Home platform. Dr. Maniaci leads the Advanced Care at Home program in Florida. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dr. Deepi Goyal, a Mayo Clinic emergency physician and regional chair of practice for Southeastern Minnesota, was infected with COVID-19 after his daughter was exposed at work and brought the virus home. Despite his best efforts to isolate and avoid contact, Dr. Goyal started experiencing COVID-19 symptoms on day nine of the recommended 10-day isolation period. On today's Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Goyal shares his experience battling COVID-19 and offers tips for being prepared to quarantine at home when necessary. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Cancer diagnoses have decreased since the COVID-19 pandemic began, according to a recent study in JAMA. "We can speculate that putting off routine screening tests means early cancers are not being detected," says Dr. Nabil Wasif, a Mayo Clinic surgical oncologist. He says this suggests that patients will eventually show up but with more advanced cancer. Routine screenings are recommended for breast, cervical and colon cancer, as well as lung cancer if the patient is a smoker. On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Wasif, says patients are taking a risk by delaying screening. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy