The Dose

Much of the federal election campaign’s focus has been on the U.S. But health care is always on the minds of Canadians. So what are the federal government’s responsibilities when it comes to health care — especially when 6.5 million Canadians don't have a family doctor or a nurse practitioner? Amélie Quesnel-Vallée explains. She's a McGill professor and Canada Research Chair in Policies and Health Inequalities.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

A third of Canadians have at least one tattoo, but it's not without risk. While uncommon, tattoos can cause allergies and infections. Some studies have also found an association between tattoo ink and cancer. McGill University dermatologist Dr. Elena Netchiporouk explains how tattoos can cause an allergic reaction, and could potentially increase the risk of certain cancers, though more research is needed.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Nearly half of Canadians have experienced increased anxiety over the last month, according to a new survey from Mental Health Research Canada. Top reasons are the rising cost of living and political uncertainty in the U.S. University of Toronto Scarborough distinguished professor of psychology Zindel Segal explains why we tune into negative news and how we can manage stress brought on by uncontrollable situations.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

It’s a stressful world out there. And one way some people quiet it down is taking medications like Lorazepam, Xanax, or Valium. They're called Benzodiazepines and their use and misuse has become a plotline in the popular TV series The White Lotus and The Pitt. University of British Columbia's clinical assistant professor and addictions medicine specialist Dr. Paxton Bach explains the benefits and risks of taking benzos. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, affects roughly 40 per cent of women by the age of 50, and some research suggests the number increases post-menopause. Toronto dermatologist Dr. Renee A. Beach explains why many women experience alopecia, and offers advice on how to slow down hair loss.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that provides energy to our muscles and brain, but it also comes in supplement form. It's long been used by athletes and bodybuilders, but now some research suggests it may also improve cognition. Darren Candow, professor and director of the University of Regina's Aging Muscle and Bone Health Laboratory, explains the science behind creatine's effect on muscles and bones, and why supplements could also help with mental stress.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Measles is on the rise, highlighting how a disease considered eliminated in Canada is making a comeback. Though there have long been sporadic cases, recent dramatic outbreaks are worrying people like infectious diseases specialist Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti. He explains why more people are getting measles and urges Canadians to get vaccinated to stay protected.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Many smokers turn to nicotine gums, patches or lozenges to try and kick the habit. But now, experts say that some non-smokers are using those products to boost attention and fine motor skills. They're doing so despite studies showing that nicotine is as addictive as cocaine or heroin. Steven Laviolette, a professor in the Schulich School of Medicine at Western University, explains what nicotine does to the brain. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

 If you're noticing people around you sniffling, coughing or sneezing, it could well be the flu. Public health data show that flu cases make up almost a quarter of all respiratory viruses circulating in Canada. Infectious diseases specialist Dr. Zain Chagla explains why cases are so high right now, and why you should consider getting a flu shot if you haven't already.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Chocolate isn't just a sweet treat, but could have some health benefits too. In a special Valentine's Day edition of The Dose, registered dietitian Anar Allidina breaks down which kind of chocolate is the healthiest, and some common health misconceptions around the delicious dessert.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

HPV (human papillomavirus) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. While most people infected with HPV recover, certain strains can increase the risk of cervical and other cancers, including oral, anal, and head and neck. Dr. Deborah Money, head of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of British Columbia, breaks down how HPV spreads and why sexually active people should consider getting vaccinated.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

A new Canadian Medical Association survey suggests that health misinformation is on the rise. Law professor and research director of the Health Law Institute at the University of Alberta Tim Caulfield gives examples of health and science misinformation, breaks down how to spot it, and offers tips on how we can talk to friends and family about misinformation they might believe is true.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

The U.S. surgeon general has called for cancer warnings on alcohol and Health Canada suggests a maximum of two drinks a week. As Dry January winds down, we ask: How can I cut back or even quit drinking alcohol? Dr. Peter Butt, an addiction medicine specialist and clinical associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan, explains how much alcohol is too much and breaks down how people can cut back.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the viruses responsible for the common cold. A spike in cases in China has made headlines, though the World Health Organization assures infection numbers are at expected levels. Dr. Satchan Takaya, division head for infectious diseases at the University of Saskatchewan, explains what HMPV is and how we can better communicate about infectious disease outbreaks abroad.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Cases of norovirus, a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhea, are on the rise in Canada and the U.S., and experts say there are easy steps we can take to protect ourselves. Dr. Zain Chagla, an infectious diseases specialist and associate professor at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., explains how norovirus spreads, as well as how steps like simple handwashing can keep us safe. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

For many, winter weather means seasonal affective disorder. If you already live with depression, you might notice your symptoms worsen. Research now shows that exercise — as well as therapy and medication — can help. Catherine Sabiston, a University of Toronto professor, director of the Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre and Canada Research Chair in physical activity and mental health, explains how exercise can alleviate the signs of depression.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts say that frequent use of social media is harming teens’ health, and the Australian government recently passed a law banning it for kids under 16. Here in Canada, Quebec is debating whether to follow suit. Psychiatrist and UBC associate professor of medicine Dr. Shimi Kang says rather than an all-out ban, parents should talk with their kids and figure out a plan that’s right for them.

H5N1 avian flu has now spread through dairy herds in 16 U.S. states. Close to 60 human cases have been reported in the U.S. and one here in Canada with a B.C. teen. Most have been caused through contact with infected animals, though a few sources are unclear. A new study in the journal Science says the virus might be just a single mutation away from more easily spreading between people. But infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Lynora Saxinger, says that while there’s no reason to panic, we need to take precautions and get any exposure to sick animals checked out.

California is issuing warnings about consuming raw milk after bird flu was detected in some samples from a farm's milk products . But proponents of unpasteurized milk say that it’s healthier than pasteurized milk, despite evidence to the contrary. Lawrence Goodridge, a food safety professor and director of the Canadian Research Institute for Food Safety at the University of Guelph, explains how pasteurization works, while debunking some common myths about raw milk.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Some communities in the U.S. are debating whether to remove fluoride from water supplies. And it's also happening in Canada. Officials recently voted to stop water fluoridation in Montreal's West Island. Dr. Gerry Uswak, a public health dentist and dental therapy professor at the University of Saskatchewan, explains how fluoride protects teeth, while addressing controversial research linking fluoride with a variety of medical conditions.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

You may have heard you should throw out your black plastic kitchen utensils. That’s because it could be leaching harmful chemicals into our food. Tizazu Mekonnen, a professor of chemical engineering and Canada Research Chair in sustainable multiphase polymers, explains how black plastic in our home can be harmful to our health, and offers safer alternatives we can use.Click here for an important update on the study highlighting the link between black plastic and brominated fire retardants.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Doctors across Canada say they're seeing a spike in cases of walking pneumonia. It's a milder form of pneumonia that doesn't often lead to hospitalization, but can still lead to serious issues like meningitis and encephalitis. Dr. Caroline Quach, a microbiologist and pediatric infectious diseases specialist, explains what could be fuelling cases and how to protect against infection.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Sex isn't always easy to talk about. And for women who have difficulties with orgasm and libido, it can be complicated if they haven't learned much about their genitals, or explored what turns them on. Lori Brotto, a professor and Canada Research Chair in women's sexual health at the University of British Columbia, says better sex starts with education and communication.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men, with an estimated one in eight men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime. John Lewis, a prostate cancer researcher and University of Alberta oncology professor, says better screening tools will help detect the disease more effectively in men.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

While breast self-exams haven't been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality, Dr. Mojola Omole — a general surgeon, breast surgical oncologist and president of the Black Physicians' Association of Ontario — says women should still perform self-exams to know what is normal, and when to seek care.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Human cases of rabies are not common in Canada, but experts say people still need to be cautious and avoid infection. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist at Toronto General Hospital and Dr. Scott Weese, a professor and veterinary internal medicine specialist at the Ontario Veterinary College, explain everything you need to know about rabies from the human, and the animal side.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

While most people think of acne as a skin condition for adolescents, it can also develop in adults. Dr. Kerri Purdy, head of dermatology at Dalhousie University, explains some of the risk factors for acne (genes and hormones, not necessarily diet) as well as the latest treatments.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

It's fall respiratory illness season and experts are once again urging Canadians to get vaccinated. Dr. Susy Hota, division head of infectious diseases at the University Health Network and Sinai Health in Toronto, breaks down the latest vaccines and treatments for influenza, COVID-19 and RSV, while also talking about how everyone can stay safe this season. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.Correction: A previous version of this episode said that Ontario is paying for every senior to receive an RSV vaccine. Ontario is only paying for high-risk seniors.

Whooping cough cases are on the rise across Canada and vaccination rates in some provinces aren't keeping pace. Dr. Cora Constantinescu, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist in Calgary, explains how whooping cough is distinct from other respiratory infections, and how children and adults can stay safe.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Iron deficiency is relatively straightforward to treat, yet a significant percentage of Canadian women and girls live with the condition. Dr. Michelle Sholzberg, a hematologist at St. Michael’s Hospital and director of hematology in the University of Toronto's department of medicine, explains how to diagnose iron deficiency and maintain our body's iron stores.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts know that men and women respond to heat differently, but we're still learning about how women respond to extreme temperatures. Dr. Amita Mahajan, an endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor at the University of Calgary, explains how extreme heat affects women's bodies and the role that hormones play in regulating their core temperatures.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Experts are warning Canadians about the risk posed by mosquitoes due to environmental factors like climate change. Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti, an infectious diseases specialist with Trillium Health Partners in Mississauga, Ont. explains what we need to know about mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile Virus.

There are a lot of fads, blogs and strong opinions, but then there’s SCIENCE. Science Vs is the show from Gimlet that finds out what’s fact, what’s not, and what’s somewhere in between.Science VS looked at the class of weight loss drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists a year ago, and they've only gotten more popular — and more controversial. We’re hearing that these kinds of drugs can be tough on your stomach, and that the weight loss comes with worrisome loss of muscle. We’ve also heard claims that they might increase your risk of suicide. So — should we be freaking out here?? In this episode, Science Vs hosts talk to endocrinologist Dr. Vibha Singhal, neuroscientist Dr. Nora Volkow, and gastroenterologist Dr. Michael Camilleri.  And a warning, this episode does deal with depression and suicidal thoughts. A full list of international hotlines can be found here. The episode transcript can be found here: https://bit.ly/ScienceVsOzempic2Scarier 

Whether it’s travelling abroad, or being active outdoors, summer can increase risk of injury, burns and bites. Emergency physician Dr. Shaneka Kulasingham walks us through common summer medical emergencies, how to avoid them and what to do if you end up needing help. She also gives tips on what to pack in a first-aid kit.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit:lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

As Canadians spend more time outdoors, enjoying yet another warm summer, experts are warning about anaplasmosis — a tick-borne disease that's slowly on the rise. Heather Coatsworth, chief research scientist of field studies in the National Microbiology Laboratory, explains what we need to know about anaplasmosis, as well as offers tips on how to avoid tick bites.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

As the Edmonton Oilers head into Game 3 of the Stanley Cup finals, Dr. Brian Goldman speaks to the team’s mindfulness coach, George Mumford. He talks about the work he’s doing with the Oilers to keep them focused, and how anyone can tap into mindfulness to achieve their goals.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Almost two-thirds of Canadians have experienced a traumatic event in their lifetimes. For some people, exposure to trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Margaret McKinnon, a professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioural neurosciences at McMaster University, explains how we can better process trauma.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections are on the rise around the world, including in Canada. But there are easy steps we can take to prevent the spread of SBBIs. Nolan Hill, a training centre facilitator at the Centre for Sexuality in Calgary, explains what you need to know.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Dry eye disease affects millions of Canadians, and more and more young people are being diagnosed. Among the risk factors is increased screen time. What is dry eye disease and what can you do about it? Ophthalmologist Dr. Johanna Choremis shares what you need to know.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

We’re all looking for ways to avoid cognitive decline, whether it’s by doing word puzzles or staying fit. So what actually helps keep our brains healthy? Dr. Steven Laureys, neurologist and Canada Excellence Research Chair in neuroplasticity at Laval University, shares what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

For the millions of Canadians who suffer from migraines, new medications approved in Canada over the last five years have changed the game. Neurologist Dr. Elizabeth Leroux shares what you need to know about how to prevent and treat migraines. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Canadians on average consume nearly half of their calories from ultra-processed foods. These are foods with added textures, colours and flavours that often contain high levels of salt, sugar and fat. Université de Montréal associate professor Jean-Claude Moubarac explains how ultra-processed foods can affect our physical and mental health, and how we can better tailor our diets.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

While we tend to think rest is the key to recovering from an injury, physicians recommend keeping the body moving, if possible, but at a lower intensity. Sport medicine physician Dr. Laura Cruz explains why "motion is lotion" and provides some low-impact exercises that can help our bodies more easily recover.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

H5N1 is in the news again, and this time it has spread to cattle in several U.S. states. It has even infected a dairy worker in Texas. Global health epidemiologist Raywat Deonandan explains how avian flu is spreading, how transmissible it is, what vaccines are available, and why we shouldn't be too worried just yet.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Timely access to dental care doesn't just help improve your oral hygiene, it can also help maintain your overall physical wellbeing. Canadian Dental Association president Heather Carr explains why a healthy mouth translates into a healthy body, and how we can best protect our oral health.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

A once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse is right on the horizon, but don't forget to protect your eyes. Ophthalmologist Dr. Yi Ning Strube explains how staring at a solar eclipse can damage our eyes, while offering advice on how we can protect our vision and still enjoy a natural wonder. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

Anecdotally, nicotine pouches are becoming more popular with young people in Canada — despite the potentially harmful health effects. Dr. Nicholas Chadi, a pediatrician and researcher in adolescent and addiction medicine, explains how these pouches are being marketed and how they could be harming youth. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link. 

Evidence shows there are health benefits to stretching as its own physical activity, not just before or after a workout. Human kinetics and recreation professor David Behm explains the health benefits of stretching, saying that doing it even for a few minutes a day can improve our overall physical wellness.For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link.

We all face stresses in our lives, from getting stuck in traffic to arguing with our partner to losing a loved one. What is all that stress doing to our bodies, and what can we do to manage it? Dr. Zindel Segal, distinguished professor of psychology and mood disorders at the University of Toronto Scarborough, shares what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link. 

Box breathing is a way of focusing on sensations by breathing in a particular way, says Dr. Zindel Segal, distinguished professor of psychology and mood disorders at the University of Toronto Scarborough.